PLAYING TO LEARN
COOPERATIVE NURSERY SCHOOL
SHOP LOCAL!
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
Ho-Ho-Kus The Artist’s
Way
Kristina Filler
Editor’s Note
Happy holidays, Ho-Ho-Kus! This issue is hitting mailboxes right in the thick of the season, and while I hope things are slowing down a bit in terms of work or school obligations so you can take in the merriment, I know this can be a tense and chaotic time for many.
With two young children, we are entering the prime years of Christmas wonder in my household. I truly love it and want to soak in each enchanting moment. I’m also acutely aware of how fleeting these special years are and that makes me feel almost nostalgic for something that hasn’t passed yet.
As parents, we create so much of that holiday magic and while it is our absolute pleasure, it sure does put the pressure on to fit in ALL THE THINGS.
So when it turns out my daughter is petrified of Santa, my son won’t sit for one (just one!) family photo for that
perfect card, the elf is having trouble finding motivation to move and I’m considering facing the crowds at Garden State Plaza for one more last minute gift, I try to take a deep breath and a cue from my children
It’s truly the simple joys that they appreciate most, and at the top of that list is very likely time spent connecting with family (well, that and a candy cane at the very least).
As I try to remain present and cherish time with family and friends, I’ve been reflecting on how grateful I am for the connections I’ve made in Ho-Ho-Kus since our launch.
BY JOE NOLAN
This month, I sat down with artist Kristina Filler for meaningful conversations about how motherhood impacts careers and creativity and how powerful art can be.
I also stepped into surely one of the most cheerful places in town—the Ho-Ho-Kus Waldwick Cooperative Nursery School, a pillar of the community where educators are passionate about teaching and guiding the next generation through play.
And in an effort to provide readers with some very solid last-minute shopping ideas, I visited borough shops. Ho-Ho-Kus is small, but these stores truly have something for everyone, and it always feels good to support local vendors.
As always, please reach out to me with your stories and photos. My email address is below, and I look forward to hearing from you and continuing to provide you with rich, personalized content in 2025.
Happy holidays from Ho-Ho-Kus magazine— we wish you a peaceful and joyful season and a happy and healthy New Year.
Sarah Nolan Editor editor@hohokusmagazine.com
Ho-Ho-Kus
MAGAZINE
Editor Sarah Nolan
Writers
Sarah Nolan
Photographers Joe Nolan Chris Marksbury
WAINSCOT MEDIA
Chairman Carroll V. Dowden
President and CEO Mark Dowden
VP, Group Publisher, Regional Thomas Flannery
VP, Content Strategy Maria Regan
Creative Director Kijoo Kim
Art Director Rosemary O’Connell
Associate Editor Sophia Carlisle
Advertising Services Director Jacquelynn Fischer
Operations Director Catherine Rosario
Production Designer Chris Ferrante
Print Production Manager Fern Meshulam
Advertising Production Associate Griff Dowden
Ho-Ho-Kus Magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Ho-Ho-Kus, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Copyright 2024 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.
PHOTOGRAPH
AROUND TOWN
‘Tis the Season
The holidays are fast approaching, and there are plenty of opportunities to celebrate the joy of the season in Ho-Ho-Kus. Check out some suggestions below.
CHARLES DICKENS PRESENTS A CHRISTMAS CAROL
In First Flight Theatre Company’s upcoming production of Dickens Presents A Christmas Carol, Charles Dickens and his family come to The Hermitage to stage a performance of his beloved Christmas tale. Directed and adapted by Frank Farrell, Dickens Presents A Christmas Carol is a re-titled adaptation of a play that was successfully staged at The Hermitage Museum in its early years and ran for several holiday seasons.
Charles Dickens plays the narrator and the spirits of Christmas past and present. He is joined by his daughters, sons, nieces and nephews who play the rest of the roles along Scrooge in this holiday favorite.
This fun, interactive interpretation is First Flight Theatre Company’s fifth production of the holiday classic at The Hermitage and promises to be a fantastic addition to your family’s holiday tradition. 2024 performance dates are: Dec. 14, 15, 21 and 22. The Saturday shows will be held at 7 p.m., the Sunday shows at 3 p.m. Tickets are $35 per person and available online at thehermitage.org/events.
SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN
Be on the lookout for Santa Claus on your street on Sunday, Dec. 15 from 1 to 4 p.m. He won’t be hard to miss, traveling on a Ho-Ho-Kus Volunteer Fire Department truck Children delight in this age-old borough tradition; be sure to snag a candy cane and snap a photo with the jolly old elf.
YOUNG PERSON’S HOLIDAY TOUR
Holidays at The Hermitage proudly presents Young Person’s Holiday Tour Looking for an activity to do with your family during the holiday break? The Hermitage is offering tours geared for children and young people, providing an opportunity to see the beautifully decorated building.
This year, The Hermitage will be celebrating the holiday classic “The Nutcracker,” with each room decorated with scenes from the ballet. Tours will be held Friday, Dec. 27, Saturday, Dec. 28 and Sunday, Dec. 29 at 11 a.m.
Tickets are $10 per person and available online at hermitage.org/events. Space is limited and advanced reservations are required. Young children must be accompanied by an adult.
CANDLELIGHT TOURS OF THE HERMITAGE
See The Hermitage by candlelight in all its holiday splendor. This year’s theme is “The Nutcracker,” and the rooms will be decorated with different scenes from the 1982 ballet, including the Mouse King, the Chinese Dance and the Sugar Plum Fairy. After the tour, enjoy hot cider and cookies and browse the holiday gift shop. It’s a charming evening for the whole family. Tours will be held on Saturday, Dec. 7 at 6, 6:30 and 7 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 13 at 6, 6:30 and 7 p.m.; Friday, Dec. 20 at 6, 6:30 and 7 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 22 at 5:30, 6 and 6:30 p.m. Visit thehermitage.org/events for tickets.
Cheers to the Holiday Season
Choosing wine to pair with your holiday dinner or to gift a host can be intimidating. Tom Fiore, the wine expert at Uncorked Wines & Spirits, is here to help. He offers favorites for vino lovers and options for beer and spirits fans as well.
BY SARAH NOLAN
Tom Fiore, the head resident “wine guy” at Uncorked Wines & Spirits, thinks many people take wine too seriously.
“It’s a fun beverage–it shouldn’t be intimidating,” he said.
A former retail executive at companies like Barnes & Noble, J. Crew and Toys “R” Us, Fiore always had a passion for wine, particularly pairing it with meals for friends. Post-retirement, he thought he’d try his hand at the business and received his WSET Level 3 certificate,
an advanced level qualification for wine enthusiasts and professionals working in the industry.
He’s been employed in the business since 2013 and at Uncorked since February, where he’s found his niche in the retail world. He says his favorite thing about working in the wine industry is connecting and having fun with customers at the shop on North Maple Avenue, which has dedicated parking in both the front and rear of the store.
“It’s a people business, it’s about building relationships and building trust that I’m not going to recommend something that’s bad,” Fiore said.
With the holidays fast approaching, Fiore has recommendations for shoppers unsure of what to buy, whether they’re looking to pair wine with a meal or gift a bottle to the host.
In addition to red and white wines, he recommends some spirits and beer options. Here are his suggestions.
Red wines
Domaine Geantet-Pansiot’s GevreyChambertin “En Champs” pinot noir, made in the Burgandy region of eastern France, is a big, juicy, high acid red that pairs well with many traditional holiday meals, including turkey, pork loin or salmon. Fiore describes it as “very versatile,” adding it also goes wonderfully with cheese. ($160)
Kosta Browne’s pinot noir from California, in comparison, is fruitier, Fiore said. France emphasizes “terroir,” which encompasses the factors that go into producing wine grapes in a vineyard, from the climate to the soil and elevation, producing more minerality and earthiness in the flavor, Fiore said. California wines like Kosta Browne’s are more “fruit forward,” with notes of blackberry and layers of ripe red cherry and raspberry. Its silky-smooth palate with delicate tension and a remarkable finish pairs well with veal, pork, poultry and mushrooms. ($125)
Goulee by Cos d’Estournel, from the Bordeaux region of France, produces wines
that are blends of different reds like cabernet and merlot. Fiore described this bottle as affordable with notes of dark fruit, oak and chocolate. It pairs well with many classic holiday foods, such as beef, lamb, game and poultry, he said. ($39.99)
California’s Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars ARTEMIS cabernet sauvignon is another more fruit forward and perfect for anyone looking for a bigger, bolder flavor, Fiore said. ($92.99)
Ridge East Bench zinfandel is a great wine with turkey, Fiore said, with its jammy notes that are reminiscent of cranberry sauce. It’s medium to full body with rich raspberry on the palate and well-coated tannins also pairs beautifully with beef and lamb. Fun fact: Fiore noted that many people confuse zinfandel wines as whites, but the white zinfandel many are thinking of was actually made by mistake.
A winery was making zinfandel, a red, when fermentation stopped for some reason, and they were left with the pink wine. They tasted it and decided to sell it,
thus white zinfandel was born. ($45.99)
A final wine suggestion in the red category is Antinori’s Tignanello, “a big Italian red,” Fiore said. Known as a “super Tuscan”—wines from Tuscany that may include non-indigenous grapes—Fiore described these wines as more French in style than American, adding that wines in this category are some of the most expensive and best wines. This bottle is known to be Meghan Markle’s favorite red. ($169.99)
Opposite page: Wine expert Tom Fiore displays a bottle of wine. This page, clockwise from above: Uncorked Wines & Spirits is located at 611 N. Maple Ave. and has dedicated parking spaces in the front and rear of its store. Wines on display at the store. Red wines including Goulée by Cos d’Estournel, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars ARTEMIS and Tignanello by Antinori.
White wines
Fiore recommends a trio of chardonnays if you prefer white wine.
Far Niente is produced in Napa Valley. Fiore describes it as not overly oaky or buttery with bright notes of citrus, melon and pear. French in style, it’s “very wellbalanced and doesn’t overpower the food,” he said. It pairs well with pork, poultry, rich fish or vegetarian dishes. ($64.99)
If you prefer a buttery flavor, SonomaCutrer is the one to have. It goes well with everything from roast chicken to buttered popcorn, Fiore said. ($28.99)
Louis Jadot’s Pouilly-Fuissé is from the Burgandy region of France. Here, the terroir makes this white stand out from others with notes of fresh red apples, honey and white flowers along with elegant and rich flavors of toasted nuts and citrus. Fiore said year in and year out, this bottle is extremely popular and something he likes to encourage people to try with dishes like salmon, shellfish and creamy cheeses. ($29.99)
Spirits
Bourbon is one of the hottest categories, Fiore said. Jefferson’s Ocean’s bottle has notes of caramel and vanilla and can be
LOCAL TASTES
sipped neat or on the rocks. Barrels of the liquor are aged at sea, traveling aboard ships that visit ports all around the world. The constant motion of the sea churns the whiskey, increasing its interaction with the wood of the barrel and extreme weather hyper-ages the liquid in ways no rickhouse could, according to the distributor. ($77.99)
Tequila is also very popular, Fiore said, with many celebrities breaking into the business. This Clase Azul bottle would make a beautiful gift. Each decanter is made from ceramic and is hand painted. This tequila is Clase Azul’s first icon and signature creation, according to the company, and is a smooth aged reposado tequila. Fiore explained that there are three types of tequila: blanco, which is unaged and ideal for cocktails; reposado, which is aged for up to one year and has a smoother, more complex flavor ideal for drinking neat or in cocktails; and añejo, which is aged for up to three years and has a rich, smooth taste ideal for sipping. ($165)
Seltzers and beer
A fast-growing category, Fiore said many younger drinkers have gravitated toward seltzers. High Noon, Surfside and White Claw are particularly popular in
the summer, but Anheuser-Busch-Bud Light has released an Ugly Sweater Seltzer variety pack ($17.99 for a 12 pack) and other distributors are sure to come out with limited edition holiday flavors.
For the beer drinkers, one classic is Tröegs’ Mad Elf Ale, brewed with cherries and honey ($31.99 for a 12 pack). Fiore said many of the large breweries release holiday-themed beers, but most of the beer Uncorked sells is from craft breweries.
Clockwise from top left: Rosé wines on display at Uncorked Wines & Spirits. Spirits like Jefferson’s Ocean bourbon and Clase Azul tequila make for the perfect gift. Popular chardonnays suitable for the holiday season, including SonomaCutrer, Pouilly-Fuissé and Far Niente.
1. Pagodes de Cos d'Estournel 2022 – $99.99 | Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon Blend, Bordeaux, France | Body: Bold, dry, crisp. Aromas/Flavors: Pear, Green Apples, Flint, Citrus, Tropical Fruits. | Pairings: Pork, Poultry, Lean Fish, Vegetarian Dishes, Appetizers, Snacks.
2. Bader-Mimeur Chassagne Montrachet 2021 – $74.99 | Chardonnay, Chassagne Montrachet, Côte de Beaune, Burgundy, France | Body: Medium, Dry, Smooth. Aromas/ Flavors: Apples, Pears, Apricots, Oak, Vanilla, Brioche. Pairings: Shellfish, Rich Fish, Pasta, Mild Soft Cheese, Cured Meat
3. Silver Oak Cab 2018: Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon – $179.99 | Color: Ruby. Aromas/Flavors: Strawberry, Fresh Carnation, Black Pepper, Vanilla. Aging Potential: Improves through 2043 with proper cellaring. | Pairings: All meats, Hard Ripe Cheese.
4. Veuve Clicquot Champagne – $45.99 | Non-Vintage dominated by Pinot Noir. Blend: 55% Pinot Noir, 15% Pinot Meunier, 30% Chardonnay | Pairings: Pork, Shellfish, Rich Fatty Fish, Mild Soft Cheese.
5. Penfolds Grange, Australia 2009 – $599.99 | Predominantly Shiraz, 2% Cabernet Sauvignon. One of the world's top 10 wines nearly every year. Very bold, medium to high tannins, dry and medium crispness. | Aromas/flavors: Oak, Vanilla, Chocolate, Black Fruit, Leather, Smoke. | Pairings: Beef, Lamb, Poultry
6. Sassicaia, Bolgheri, Tuscany, Italy 2019 – $329.99 | Style: Dry, bold, tannic Aromas/Flavors: Dark fruit, Oak, Tobacco, Smoke, Mint | Pairings: Beef, Lamb, Veal, Game Meats, Pasta
7. Chateau Mouton Rothschild, Pauillac, Bordeaux, France – $550 Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon & Merlot Style: Dry, bold, medium to high tannins, bright acidity. Aromas/Flavors: Black Fruits, Leather, Smoke, Oak, Cedar, Licorice | Pairings: Beef, Lamb, Poultry, Game Meats.
Artist, Activist and Mom
Muralist, illustrator and designer Kristina Filler isn’t shy about the challenges of returning to work with two small kids at home. But with grit and a sense of humor, she’s making it work and seeking connection with the creative community in the process.
Artist Kristina Filler paints a familiar picture of life as a working mom when she speaks about her first professional job since welcoming her two children.
With her young daughter and son inevitably home sick from daycare more days of the month than not, Filler says she would rock her infant son to sleep, gently lay him down in her bed (forget the crib at that point in his life), then “quiet as a mouse” work in the rocking chair beside him for the duration of his nap. She’d crack open the laptop again around 8 p.m., when both kids were down for the night.
“It was exhausting, but I did manage it,” Filler said. “When you see other women fighting tooth and nail in whatever spare moments they have, it’s inspiring. There are so many new moms in this neighborhood; I know I’m not alone, and when you start to talk about your struggles, that’s when
other people feel comfortable opening up about their own.”
It’s connection that Filler seeks, both with her inner creativity and the artistic community she’s searching for in northern New Jersey after moving from Manhattan to Ho-Ho-Kus in 2020.
The multi-medium artist is not interested in sugar coating the challenges of motherhood and balancing a career— particularly one in the arts—as she finds her footing in the professional world once again.
“I am so glad to be a mom, and I love my kids so much, but it’s hard not being able to be creative and not being able to fulfill that part of myself,” she said. “I think a lot of new moms feel that way. When you can’t do the thing that you have sort of identified yourself with before becoming a parent that’s taxing, and I don’t want to gloss over that necessarily.”
Top left: Filler, her husband Patrick and their daughter Fiona in a photo used for their family Christmas card when Fiona was one. Opposite page, left: Filler poses with a floral mural she painted in one of her home’s bathrooms.
Right: Filler drew inspiration from a theme in “The Sopranos” for this mural in her guest bathroom.
Beginnings
Filler attended art school at Pratt in Brooklyn, painting murals for money as she earned her bachelor’s degree in illustration. From there, she worked in a variety of fields in the digital arena, first in the fashion industry then in package design for small food brands where she settled for a decade.
It was during this time that the selfdescribed “chocoholic” got into the foodie trend and started a blog about chocolate and peanut butter, “a site dedicated to the world’s two best ingredients.” The venture helped accomplish Filler’s goals to become a better photographer, writer and baker and even led to the fulfillment of her lifelong dream to write a cookbook. She teamed up with a company called ZOKU, which sells a product that can create popsicles in minutes and co-wrote the “Quick Pops” recipe book.
“I’ve had a back and forth, all over the place career,” she said.
From art to activism
Filler’s career took a turn when current events forced her to confront her past and pave the way for her future as an
for her—and, feeling a deep sense of “surrender, stop the violence,” she painted a hand-shaped dove with the words “Hold Your Fire” on it.
artist and activist.
It was 2018, and it seemed she couldn’t turn on the television or glance at news alerts without hearing about another mass shooting, Filler said. Her life was forever changed in 1998 when her father, John Sacci, was murdered during a random shooting outside of the Hoboken school where he was a beloved history teacher. She was just 14.
The Hillsdale native said shootings didn’t happen in the sleepy suburb where she grew up, and she kept her grief to herself and felt isolated. But as an adult, she was suddenly confronted with the realities of gun violence everywhere she turned.
The artist had been knee-deep in a project to memorialize her dad on the 20th anniversary of his murder when the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland happened.
“It really blew things up for me, especially realizing these kids were the same age I was when gun violence so deeply impacted my family,” she said.
That night she took the news in— something that was often too painful
At the suggestion of her husband, Patrick, she put the graphic on T-shirts and sweatshirts to sell on a website called Bonfire, which prints and distributes items and helps vendors fundraise for a cause. To date, Filler’s design has raised nearly $13,000 for Everytown for Gun Safety, an American nonprofit organization which advocates for gun control and against gun violence.
“For the first time in 20 years, I was having conversations about how gun violence impacted our family,” Filler said. “I was really shocked at the response, and it was heartwarming. It really made me realize the power of art.”
Filler continued to push hard against gun violence and advocate for stricter bans. It was during an anti-gun violence march across the Brooklyn Bridge that her desire to become a mom was solidified. She marched alongside a Brooklyn councilwoman and mother and a business owner that was five months pregnant and carrying her young daughter on her back.
“I was sometimes fearful of becoming a mom and losing the thread of what I wanted to do, losing myself, but they were out there doing it,” Filler said. “I thought ‘I can do it. It might be hard, but I can do it.’
A return to her roots
Cut to 2020, and Filler was pregnant with her first child, daughter Fiona, and heading out of the city to suburban Ho-Ho-Kus amid the coronavirus pandemic. She and her husband were drawn to a “cute, cozy, tight knit” neighborhood near downtown. And while some might’ve had immediate plans to gut and renovate the original 1950s powder blue tiles and pedestal sinks in the home’s bathrooms, it was all part of the charm for Filler.
She began to get back to her roots in mural painting by starting with her bathrooms. One is painted with large, enchanting swans, another with butterflies, flowers and ladybugs.
It’s the third aforementioned powder blue guest bath that truly reflects Filler’s penchant to create art that’s both meaningful and funny. She drew inspiration from a recurring theme in “The Sopranos” when Tony Soprano becomes obsessed with a family of ducks that takes up residence in his swimming pool. The ducks have a deeper meaning to the troubled main character and reflect his emotional state.
Similarly, Filler said her work was multidimensional. On the surface, her mural of the ducks and Soprano in a bathrobe is a nod to quintessential
Clockwise from top left: Filler along with her husband, Patrick, and daughter Fiona in a moving announcement they sent to friends. A portrait of the artist’s husband, Patrick. A floral, butterfly and ladybug mural Filler painted in one of the bathrooms in her Ho-Ho-Kus home. The artist’s mantle features the “Hold Your Fire” design she created that has helped to raise nearly $13,000 for Everytown, a nonprofit that advocates for gun control and against gun violence.
Jersey for out-of-town guests. But when she painted it, she was going through a tough emotional time, having become a new mom of two and struggling to tap into her creativity.
“Meaningful, heartfelt work with some sort of significance behind it is my favorite,” Filler said. “It’s even better if it’s funny; I really like funny artwork.”
Filler recently used her skills as a muralist outside her home to create a piece for a music studio at American Musical Supply in Oakland. And she’s found meaning in digital work she did for a documentary called “Bring Them Home” by Thunderheart Films.
The film is about the Native American Blackfoot people and their mission to re-establish the first wild buffalo herd on their ancestral territory since the species’ near-extinction. Filler worked with the team on branding and created a style guide, poster, flyer, movie credits and promotional sweatshirts and bandanas for the film’s premiere (many times alongside her sleeping second-born, Vincent).
The professional projects were the first Filler completed since becoming a mom, and she said they “boosted” her, encouraging her to seek out more work that fulfills her.
“I like being pushed artistically. I
like challenges and doing things I’ve never done before,” Filler said. “I want to feel connected to creativity and work with nice people with interesting or meaningful ideas to help them grow their business. A touch of weirdness or a sense of humor is a bonus.”
An avid traveler (she and her husband have visited all 50 states together and spent entire summers working remotely in Europe pre-kids) and former city dweller, Filler said she’s hoping to find her niche close to home these days.
“The city is incredible but there’s also that anonymous feel,” she said. “Out here, there’s more of a sense of community and more of an investment that I think is an interesting contrast to what I’ve been more used to.”
Ho-Ho-Kus feels like home to Filler, from the scenic trees and creek in the center of town, to the friendly vibe.
“I feel like I can be myself here and have real conversations with my neighbors,” she said.
Still, she wants to know where the artists are.
“I know they’re here, and I’m curious to find them,” Filler said.
For more about Filler, visit her website kristinafiller.com and her Instagram page @kstar810.
Clockwise from top left: A painting of a bear that Filler created, inspired by a trip she and her husband took to Alaska. An enchanting swan-themed mural that Filler painted in one of her home’s bathrooms. A closeup of Filler’s “Sopranos” mural. A house number sign that Filler painted for her home.
Ho-Ho-Kus Waldwick
Cooperative Nursery School
Director Alison MacLaren and Executive Board
President Kara McIlvaine outside of the school.
Learning Through Play
For half a century, the Ho-Ho-Kus Waldwick Cooperative Nursery School has been a pillar of the community, welcoming the area’s youngest students with an approach that prepares them socially, emotionally, physically and academically for the world beyond this tight-knit crew.
Child psychologist Jean Piaget said, “Play is the work of children,” and the beloved Fred Rogers agreed, stating: “Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children, play is serious learning.”
For more than 50 years, students have been ushered into the world of education with that philosophy in mind, by learning through play at the Ho-Ho-Kus Waldwick Cooperative Nursery School.
It’s a method that Director Alison MacLaren says intentionally sets children on a lifelong path to love school, while teaching them the social skills to become citizens that get along with others, make decisions and use their words to solve problems.
Housed in the Community Church on Warren Avenue in the center of Ho-Ho-Kus, it’s clear upon entering the cheerfully decorated and bustling classrooms for children ranging from 18 months in the Toddler and Me program to
four- and five-year-olds in Pre-K, that fun is a central element at the school.
Whether it’s arts and crafts, pretend play or beginning to learn their letters, many times students may not be aware they’re gaining skills to set them up for success in kindergarten and beyond, MacLaren says, because they’re having a blast doing it.
MacLaren’s own four children, now 20, 18, 15 and 13, came through the nursery school where she’s served as director at for 14 years.
A self-described “teacher at heart,” MacLaren started her career as an IT trainer and then worked in adult education when her children were small so she could be home with them during the day. But once she became involved as a parent at the Cooperative Nursery School, she realized she loved the age.
“As a teacher, you find your age and for me, preschool is such a wonderful and wonderous stage of life,” she said.
One unique aspect of a cooperative
nursery school is that it allows parents a voice in decisions concerning their child’s education and the opportunity to observe and participate in those first steps outside the home.
Parents directly guide the school’s program through an elected Executive Board and participate on one of various committees (unless families choose to pay the opt-out fee). Parents also participate in the classroom alongside the teachers for a handful of days throughout the school year.
Board President Kara McIlvaine said co-oping provides a unique opportunity to peek into your child’s school life.
“It’s special to be able to see your child interact with their friends and see what they’re doing – it’s reassuring to me,” she said. “When you ask a child ‘How was your day?’ you only get so much, even when you ask specific questions. It’s eye-opening to see what they’re learning and employ that language and lessons at home to connect the two worlds.”
Students participate in a bowling game during their Spanish-led gym class.
Education and play
As children progress and grow, different aspects of learning are the focus, MacLaren said, always with an emphasis on play but gearing up to more of an educational curriculum as children reach Pre-K.
In the 2s class, it’s about independent play and emotional/social skills like saying goodbye to a parent (perhaps for the first time) and learning to walk in a line, the director said. In the 3s, children really begin to come out of their shells socially and engage in role play and pretend play. They also work on fine motor skills like holding a crayon correctly and gross motor skills like pedaling a bike during active play, MacLaren said.
A program called Learning without Tears is used with Pre-K students to help them learn their letters–uppercase, lowercase and letter sounds to lay the foundation for reading. It follows a particular method and process of letter
and number writing that is designed to help children master handwriting in a fun, structured way.
Pre-K students also begin show and tell and learn other soft skills like putting work away in a folder and zippering their jacket by themselves—things MacLaren said prepare them for kindergarten.
In addition to their regular hours, the school offers Early Morning Drop-Off and Lunch & Play, along with Afternoon Enrichment for the 3s and 4s.
A calling
Teachers at the nursery school are required to have their associate’s degree in child development, but above all, MacLaren said, teaching is a calling.
“Our teachers are people that love working with children and find this group completely fascinating,” MacLaren said. “I hear the teachers laughing with the kids and they get the best out of the kids because
they love this age group. Plus, they have all the other qualities a preschool teacher needs, like being well-organized, loving and comforting.”
McIlvaine said she can tell the teachers and aides alike really want to be there.
“You can hear the passion in their voices, and they feel a connection here,” she said.
“Many times, they’ve had their own kids come through the school and we really look for that passion and that desire to make a difference in these children’s lives.”
MacLaren said while she’s the director, she gets to know the children as their language teacher. She studied French, German and Spanish at University of Cambridge.
She’s known as Madame MacLaren when she teachers French, a program that all students benefit from. Children that attend school on Fridays meet Señora Alison for a Spanish-led gym class.
“At this age, they’re so open to other
Clockwise from top left: Nita Bachani, a 4s teacher, and School Director Alison MacLaren pose with students during their gym class that’s taught in Spanish.
Sabrina Chacon, a 3s teacher, with students at their farm stand.
“Señora Alison” teaches a gym class in Spanish. Sarah Harris, a 2s teacher, works with students in the classroom.
cultures and languages,” she said. “It’s really a door to a new world. When they go on to learn a language at the big school, they’re so open to it and have the ability to speak with confidence.”
McIlvaine, a Ho-Ho-Kus resident since 2020, has a son in first grade that went through the nursery school, a daughter in the 3s and a daughter in the Toddler and Me program. She said she truly appreciates the sense of community fostered by the school.
“It was such a nice introduction to the town and the community, and we’ve been able to make a lot of friends through the school,” she said. “It’s a close-knit group and the kids look forward to being here.”
MacLaren said the school currently enrolls 89 children, including those in the Toddler and Me program, and welcomes tots from many surrounding towns, including Westwood, Ridgewood, Allendale, Waldwick and more.
“The preschool is a community in of itself and everybody is supportive of each
other and the common goal to make the school a special place that children are so happy to come to,” MacLaren said. “It’s a loving and nurturing environment that builds confidence in students and prepares them academically, socially, emotionally and physically for the world beyond here.”
For more information about the Ho-Ho-Kus Waldwick Cooperative Nursery School, visit hohokuswaldwickcoop.com.
Clockwise from top left: Mrs. Sparago, an aide at the school, works with students. Suzanne Ferraioli, a 3s teacher, with students. Karen Williams, a 4s teacher, with students. Williams and School Director Alison MacLaren outside with students.
Shop Local This Holiday Season
There’s no doubt that Ho-Ho-Kus is a small town, but there are plenty of opportunities to support local vendors while scoring beautiful and unique gifts for your loved ones. Check out some of the most coveted items around town.
BY SARAH NOLAN
CAWFFEE TAWK MUG bonfire.com/cawffee-mug @kstar18
Ho-Ho-Kus-based artist Kristina Filler (featured in this month’s issue) originally created this “cawffee tawk” mug as part of a contest for Fishs Eddy in New York City. It has sold for 20 years in their shop, souvenir stores, airports and most recently, West Elm. This mug was inspired by Filler’s mom, who has a thick Hudson County accent and loves “cawffee.” It would make the perfect gift for any Jersey guy or gal ($17.99). CORTZEN Cortzendecor.com @cortzendecor 2 Orvil Ct.
Cortzen’s mission is clear: to redefine outdoor living through creativity, functionality and sustainability. They believe outdoor spaces should be more than just functional; they should be extensions of your lifestyle, places where memories are made and moments are cherished. This holiday season, Cortzen would like to highlight its Forest of Flames Fireball, one of the shop’s bestsellers. Its intricate design is a showstopper when lit up and a true work of art to add to any outdoor space ($1,900).
HAVE A DAY CANDLES AND HOME FRAGRANCE haveadaycandles.com @have_a_day_candles
Have A Day Candles and Home Fragrance was created by Ho-Ho-Kus mom Melissa Pansy. She creates candles designed to be minimalistic home décor pieces that blend into your home’s design, no matter the scent. All of Have A Day’s candles are made with eco-friendly, ethically-sourced wood wicks from the U.S. Pansy uses a premium vegan wax blend that is FDA-approved and free of toxins, parabens and phthalates. Additionally, she uses phthalate-free fragrance oils offering complex scent notes to maximize your olfactory experience. Have A Day’s candles would make a wonderful gift for anyone. How perfect is this “hohokus for the holidays” fir and crisp juniperscented candle? The shop will offer five holiday scented candles this season in two different sizes, 12 oz. ($26) and 8 oz. ($16).
J.
MCLAUGHLIN
jmclaughlin.com
@jmclaughlin 21 Sheridan Ave.
Founded in 1977 by brothers Kevin and Jay McLaughlin, J. McLaughlin prides itself on creating effortless styles with a modern twist. Thoughtfully designed with impeccable craftmanship, original colors and prints and innovative fabrics, the brand offers clothing with a legacy of style and spirit of connection.
This season, the Ho-Ho-Kus location suggests many fine gifts, including this Aspen Poncho that has an après-ski meets city chic vibe. It’s made from a warm wool blend featuring a plush faux fur trim and a vegan leather belt ($358). Add the Covara leather gloves with horse bit hardware, lined with cashmere and wool ($128). If you’re looking for a finishing touch, the Mathilde Bag ($298) is a must-have.
JEAN EDWARDS INTERIORS
jeanedwardsinteriors.com
@jean.edwards.interiors
14 Franklin Turnpike
Since its founding in 1989, the creative team of interior design professionals at Jean Edwards Interiors has transformed spaces and dreamt up new ways to recreate your favorite spots. They’ll help you design the space you’ve always wished you could live or work in. The team goes every step of the way to satisfy your vision. On top of design services, Jean Edwards has a shop of curated items that make wonderful gifts, including the pictured glass decanters, decorative trays, boxes and bowls and lamps.
KATIE DIAMOND JEWELRY
katiediamondjewelry.com
@katiediamondjewelry
570 N Maple Ave.
Right across the border in Ridgewood, Katie Diamond Jewelry’s brick and mortar shop is a woman-owned and operated small business. Its team of six is eager to assist you with all your shopping needs, from engagement rings and wedding bands to demi-fine jewelry and elevated gifts. Known for its jewelry redesign business, they invite you to schedule an appointment to bring in your gold and diamond family heirlooms. The team will work with you to redesign a new, one-of-a-kind piece of fine jewelry for you to wear forever and tell your jewelry story. This enchanting blue moon heart pendant necklace captures the essence of love and elegance. Choose from a design featuring a sparkling bezel set diamond or the celestial heart with three bezel set sparkling diamond stars. These classic designs and subtle sophistication make a perfect gift for a loved one or a cherished addition to your own collection ($475).
THE LITTLE FLOWER SHOPPE
thelittleflowershoppe.net
@thelittleflowershoppe
1 Hollywood Ave., Building 28
For more than 15 years, The Little Flower Shoppe has offered fresh florals, permanent arrangements and exquisite holiday décor. This hidden gem delivers to Ridgewood, Saddle River, Franklin Lakes, Glen Rock, Ho-Ho-Kus and all surrounding Bergen County communities. From its design studio in Ho-Ho-Kus, The Little Flower Shoppe specializes in creative floral design for the tri-state area’s most high-profile events, as well as private events including birthdays, anniversary celebrations, intimate weddings and bar/bat mitzvahs. This holiday season, The Little Flower Shoppe recommends several items, including a grapevine wreath, crafted with cedar, berries, pinecones and natural ribbon ($195); a seasonal planter featuring a beautiful Hellebore plant, lemon cypress tree and rosemary for a touch of natural holiday charm ($125); and a custom tablescape centerpiece featuring a blend of white, red and green florals and natural elements such as berries and pine cones ($135).
TWO SYCAMORE
2 Sycamore Ave. @twosycamore
Two Sycamore is a curation of the most loved pieces from the world of Alexis Hughes and Co. The company’s experience creating homes for clients has led to a discernment for meaningful design. The shop offers a collection of timeless pieces, proven through a balance of aesthetics and comfort. Shoppers will find furniture, lighting, tabletop gifts, jewelry and more at the borough storefront and website. This season, Two Sycamore owners recommend a variety of gifts from Addison Ross, including salt and pepper mills ($57 to $98 each), picture frames ($60 to 76) and clocks ($80 to $88).
LUMINOUS
getluminous.com
@getluminous
11 Sheridan Ave.
Known for its signature lash and brow services, Luminous curates elevated skincare, beauty and wellness essentials. This holiday, Luminous is focused on reminding us that shopping for everyone is wonderful, but don’t forget to #giftyourdamnself. Gifts include the Slip Pure Silk Queen Gift Set in Rosemary ($89) and Silk Hazel Sleep Over Set ($55); the Augustinus Bader Collection Rich Eye Cream ($205) and Rich Cream ($540); and the HIGHERDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket ($699) and PEMF Mat ($1,295).
LITTLE NIKKI’S
@littlenikkis
618 N. Maple Ave.
North Jersey’s premiere boutique for baby and children’s clothing is the spot to shop for little ones in your life. Specializing in custom layette, gift baskets and christening attire for boys and girls, the shop’s clothing and gift items are sure to be treasured keepsakes. Head to the Maple Avenue location to get adorable, customizable holiday outfits. Here are a few items you can pick up: Christmas tree tutu skirt ($36); soft and fuzzy Santa sweater ($42); holiday plaid pants ($44); embroidered custom sweater ($70). Non-clothing gifts, like the Santa Clausthemed crayon holder ($24), are also available.
Connection and Discovery at the Library
Worth-Pinkham Memorial Library Director Morgan Taylor says, surprisingly, it wasn’t a love for reading that initially drew her to a career in librarianship. Instead, a drive to serve others and foster communities led her down the unexpected path. Now an avid reader, she says books are just one of so many library perks.
When did your love for libraries begin and why are they a special place for you?
Libraries are a place of discovery. I grew up in Allendale, and the library was walking distance from both home and school. It was one of the first places I found autonomy growing up. I wasn’t a big reader, but I would browse for movies and scout the “recently returned” shelf for music that I could transfer from CDs to my iPod.
Did you always want to be a librarian? What was your path to becoming one, and where did you work before landing in Ho-Ho-Kus?
It might be surprising, but I was not drawn
to librarianship by a love for reading and didn’t intend to make this a career. I spent six years studying to join the mental health field as an art therapist.
I started working at Lee Memorial Library in Allendale when I was 16 as a shelver or page. I went to undergrad in Massachusetts, but they always had hours for me when I was home for breaks.
I was made the Youth Services Librarian’s assistant for the summer leading into my senior year. After I graduated, I moved home and was commuting to grad school. I continued working at the library and there were a lot of opportunities to take on different responsibilities.
I was drawn to art therapy as a career because I could help others while using art as a medium for communication, connection and discovery. About halfway through my master’s program, I was
supposed to find an internship but felt hesitant. I was working multiple jobs at the time and didn’t want to lose hours, but there was more to it than that.
After a lot of introspection and research, I decided that I wanted to leave the program and pursue a master’s in library science instead. I am so fulfilled doing work that is in the service of others.
Libraries are an accessible way to connect communities and aid in discovery through programs, events, services and loaning materials. I still get to be creative and play around with making things.
I have worked in a few different libraries over the years and they each tailor what they offer to suit the needs of their individual communities.
Most recently, I was the head of adult services at Princeton Public Library before coming to Ho-Ho-Kus.
Do you have a favorite book?
Despite my reluctant reader past, I now finish around 100 books a year and explore all genres. Whether they are fictional or not, I love to feel connected to the people whom I read about. A few of my favorites are: “The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern, “A Tale for the Time Being” by Ruth Ozeki, and “Nothing to See Here” by Kevin Wilson. I mainly listen to audiobooks and some excellent narrators include January LaVoy, Julia Whelan and Jim Dale.
What do you like about working in Ho-Ho-Kus?
My sister, Tiffany Hogue, is one of my favorite people in the world and she lives in town, so I can bug her anytime I want. Our library has really wonderful, devoted staff members who cultivate a welcoming environment. I’ve had the opportunity to get involved with the Chamber of Commerce and recently joined the board of The Hermitage. The town itself has an undercurrent of momentum and there’s always something to look forward to.
Is there a particular program or library event that you love the most?
Our library staff includes a strong group of “ideas” people, and we plan and run a lot of excellent events.
The one nearest and dearest to my heart is the Millennial Book Club. In 2017 when I was working at Glen Rock Public Library, I reached out to Ho-Ho-Kus to see if they would be interested in collaborating on a book club for younger adults, and it’s been going strong ever since. It has been such a joy to return to the group and continue collaborating with a different Glen Rock representative. I’ve made some wonderful friends, and we have celebrated many milestones together, including our 80th book discussion in October.
Do you have any tips for parents to foster a love of reading in their young children?
There a few simple things you can do: Let your children see you reading; never stop reading aloud to them; cultivate rituals that involve books/reading.
The library is moving—what are you most excited about when it comes to the new building and location?
I am looking forward to being in the middle of town with much better physical access and a devoted room for library programs and community activities.
So many people have core memories inside of libraries. With that in mind, we are designing the new children’s space to feel transformative and a bit magical so we can foster the spark that will keep them connected to libraries for years to come.
What are the library’s hidden gems?
If you poke around on our website for a while, you’ll find that we provide access to family history research, small business resources and Consumer Reports. We are working on inventorying and cataloging our local history collection which includes some interesting materials from our namesake, Mildreth Worth Pinkham. We have a Book Concierge service, and if you fill out a survey about what you enjoy reading, our staff will have a book on hold for you each month tailored to your preferences. I’m a big fan of museums, and we offer free access to several in New Jersey and New York. We offer so much more than books!
Opposite page: The current Worth-Pinkham Memorial Library location. Top left: Taylor, a Northern Highlands Regional High School graduate, poses for a picture at her niece’s graduation. Far right: Taylor reshelves a book at the library.
Reasons to See a Primary Care Doctor 7
Regular visits to a physician who takes a broad view can keep you healthier—especially in winter.
Winter is upon us—and with it, increased risk of getting sick.
There’s no avoiding seasonal surges in colds, flus and viral illnesses, but you can help protect yourself and set yourself up for better health yearround with a simple step: regularly seeing a primary care doctor.
A primary care physician typically specializes in a discipline such as family or internal medicine and provides a point of entry into the healthcare system. Having a go-to health professional in your corner helps you avoid or—if you do get sick—assess and treat a broad variety of conditions.
After just one meeting, a primary care physician knows at least some of your medical history and possibly baseline results from routine screening tests. When something goes wrong, your doctor will know what “normal” looks like for you, which helps address both acute and chronic medical problems more effectively.
Here are key benefits of seeing a general doctor.
1 MEDICATION MANAGEMENT
People who use prescription drugs often take more than one, sometimes prescribed by different doctors. Many take vitamins and supplements as well. A primary care physician can monitor and track all your medications, helping to protect you from drug interactions. Your primary care doctor can also keep records of any changes
in dosages that might cause unwanted side effects, and can speak with your other providers and specialists to help fine-tune your regimen.
2 PREVENTION ADVICE
Seeking out a primary care physician regularly even when you’re feeling fine can help keep you from becoming seriously ill down the road. From your health profile, your doctor will be able to recommend testing that can assess your chances of developing heart disease, diabetes, cancer and other serious-butcommon problems. If your medical history and tests indicate that you’re prone to specific illnesses, your primary care physician can suggest healthy lifestyle changes and regular screenings to reduce your risks.
3 REMOTE CONSULTATION
Baseline health information that your primary care physician collects may allow your doctor to be comfortable treating certain problems through telemedicine, knowing you can always schedule an in-person followup if your symptoms don’t improve. Without a primary care doctor, you’re likelier to need a trip to a medical office.
4 REFERRALS TO SPECIALISTS
When you need the care of an expert in a certain specialty, your primary care physician can help you find the
right person—not only someone with the proper qualifications, but a provider who will mesh well with your personality and care preferences. If you prefer aggressive treatments, for instance, you can communicate this to your primary care physician, who can recommend specialists who align with your approach.
5 HELP IN THE ER
Wondering if you should head to the emergency room? If it’s a serious condition that could lead to death or disability, call 911. For lesser issues, you can contact your doctor’s office for guidance, potentially sparing you a trip. If you do need to seek emergency care, your doctor may be able to call ahead and provide medical details that could shorten your wait time when appropriate.
6 BETTER OVERALL CARE
People with primary care physicians tend to receive significantly more high-value healthcare such as flu shots and cancer screenings. They often have better patient experiences and overall access to healthcare as well.
7 A SHOT AT LONGER LIFE
Research suggests that people who live in areas where primary care physicians are readily available on average have longer life spans. But benefiting from their services depends on actually going to your primary care doctor.
Stop for a Bite to Eat in Ho-Ho-Kus!
A meal close to home is one of life’s little joys. As we bustle around this holiday season, take time to enjoy some delicious fare at our town’s local eateries.
Graze Brunch Kitchen
611 North Maple Ave.
Stop in for “brunchie things,” sandwiches, soups and salads and a drink menu that’s sure to delight.
@graze_brunch_kitchen (201) 543-0144 grazehhk.com
Sunny Wok
604 North Maple Ave.
Get takeout or eat in at Ho-Ho-Kus’s authentic Chinese restaurant, which offers an extensive array of meat, vegetarian and seafood dishes to try. @sunnywokrestaurant
(201) 602-8811 sunnywokonline.com
St. Eve’s Restaurant
611 North Maple Ave.
Seasonal dining options abound at St. Eve’s, providing Ho-Ho-Kus residents with an elevated dining experience that embraces each stage of the year.
@stevesnjbyob (201) 875-4717 stevesnj.com
catchy. cafe & catering
614 North Maple Ave.
A unique selection of options awaits cutomers at
the catchy. cafe, including nutritious bowls, sandwiches and homemade ice cream. Feeling like delivery or catering? catchy. has you covered there, too. @catchy.hhk (201) 445-6400 thecatchycaterer.com
081 Cafe
604 North Maple Ave.
Hearty Italian food is a pleasure for diners here. Dig into specialty pastas, brick-oven pizzas and more. @081cafe_hohokus (201) 347-9335 081cafe.com
Ho-Ho-Kus Inn & Tavern
1 East Franklin Turnpike
With an expansive menu covering everything from salads to pastas and burgers, the Ho-Ho-Kus Inn & Tavern has something for every eater. But the real star is the drink menu, which boasts an impressive list of wines, beers and specialty cocktails. @hohokusinnandtavern (201) 445-4115 hohokusinn.com
Alt Eats Cafe
622 North Maple Ave. Plant-based, gluten-free and organic eats are king at Alt Eats Cafe, where healthy food is good for you and your tastebuds. Stop in for breakfast, buddha bowls or create your own salad while you sip on a latte. @alteatscafe (201) 444-1300 alteatscafe.com
Ho-Ho-Kus Sushi Cafe
29 Sheridan Ave.
If you have a craving for sushi, this is the place to go. Enjoy a roll from the fullservice sushi bar offering fish, squid, octopus and more or pick up a few rolls a la carte. Ho-Ho-Kus Sushi Cafe also has a lunch special, where you can snag a tasty Bento Box to have on the go. (201) 607-7677 hohokussushicafe.com
Bracelets
Go bold with dazzline diamond bracelets, stun with sapphire, or choose a subtle piece you can wear every day.
Mix and match Stackable Rings for a personalized look that is unique for you. Desgined in a variety of gold styles with diamond, precious color stone, and enamel, your stack can grow with time and any style.
& Co. Jewelers
10 Franklin Tpke., Waldwick, NJ 201-389-6057
AbeAndCoJewelers.com
@abeandcojewelers
Little Plant Shop"We Nurture Your Love for Plants"
Our specialty is in curating a wide selection of houseplants, planters, and accessories to suit every plant lover’s needs for seasoned or beginner plant parents. We offer a variety of plant care essentials from fertilizers to tools, ensuring your plants thrive in any environment. Alongside houseplants, our thoughtful gifts allow you to share the "Joy of Greenery" with others. Personal Home Visits & Professional Support for expert plant advice and care is always available! Every plant purchase includes a FREE Plant App with care for our purchased plant(s). Pickup or local delivery is also available!
GIA Certified Diamonds Engagement Rings
Jewelry & Watches Wedding Bands
A Look Back On Fall Fun
The Halloween Window Painting is a longtime tradition in Ho-Ho-Kus. Third through fifth-graders brought their spooky spirit and artistic flair to help decorate downtown for this festive time of year.
while working on details of her painting.
This page, clockwise from top left: One student works on a classic jack-o’-lantern. Mason concentrates on his design. Faith focuses on the fine lines of her design. Whether it was spooky spiders, smiling pumpkins or ghoulish ghosts, students had a ball painting their creative designs on shop windows throughout town. Maggie pauses painting to smile for the camera. Parker works diligently on her painting of a black cat.
Opposite page, clockwise from top left: John stands proudly next to his painting. Emily shows off her work. Faisal stands in front of his creation. Lidia beams
High Five for Fire Prevention
Members of the Ho-Ho-Kus Volunteer Fire Department visited Worth-Pinkham Memorial Library for story time during Fire Prevention Week in October. Pictured: A tiny attendee gives a department member a high five.
Have a
This year, resolve to invest in yourself and those you love. With a full team of primary care providers, specialists to address your unique health needs, and premier wellness services for lifelong health, Valley offers something for everyone at every age and stage of life. There’s never been a better time to learn how Valley can help
