Ho-Ho-Kus
A CULINARY JOURNEY
AT ST. EVE’S RESTAURANT
FRIENDS AND PHILANTHROPY
THE CONTEMPORARY CLUB
Bohemian Luxury ela rae Jewelry
Editor’s Note
February is a tricky month. In many ways, the relentless cold in the dregs of winter can feel downright bleak. Seasonal depression is at its peak, and snow is no longer a “winter wonderland” but simply a hassle.
And yet, we know rationally that spring is coming. Slowly, the days aren’t as dark. There’s hope and yearning for warmer weather and time spent outdoors with friends and neighbors.
Smack in the middle of the month is, of course, Valentine’s Day, making February a time to celebrate love. I know, I know— it can be a controversial holiday. I never really had strong feelings about it one way or the other (though I have a particular fondness for the sentiment behind it now, since my daughter’s birthday is right around the 14th).
But I do like the idea that in the stillness that is February—post-holidays and new year’s resolutions, pre-spring and the feelings of renewal that come with it—
we’re given the opportunity to truly appreciate all forms of love, connection and friendship.
This month’s issue includes several stories about treasured relationships formed over a shared goal or interest, evolving through hard work, creativity and perseverance.
Our cover features Ho-Ho-Kus resident Tamar Silva and her best friend Pamela Mufson. The pair started their jewelry design business ela rae in college, bursting onto the scene when it got picked up by the iconic Henri Bendel department store. The brand has evolved through the years, but Silva said one thing remains the same: the bond between her and Mufson as they live a dream come true.
And if anyone knows the value of working side-by-side with friends, it’s members of The Contemporary Club. We spoke to club officers as they celebrate 95 years of raising money and volunteering to give back to our wonderful community. They say the only thing sweeter than contributing to their hometown is the close friendships they’ve formed with fellow members.
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And we welcome husband and wife team, Stefan and Vanda Ondrus, as they take over the beloved St. Eve’s restaurant in town. The partners met in Pennsylvania, but they were both born in Slovakia. Together, they’re looking forward to preserving tradition at the establishment, while offering some exciting new dishes. They chose Ho-Ho-Kus because of its small, tight-knit community, and they look forward to becoming a part of this special place. I am truly enjoying getting to know more and more residents and business owners, one story at a time. As always, please reach out to me with your stories, suggestions and photos. I can’t wait to hear from you!
Sarah Nolan Editor editor@hohokusmagazine.com
Ho-Ho-Kus
MAGAZINE
Editor
Sarah Nolan
Writers
Sarah Nolan
Morgan Taylor
Photographers
Joe Nolan Adam Paray
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 2025 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.
PHOTOGRAPH
JOE NOLAN
AROUND TOWN
February Fun
It can be a bitterly cold month, but Ho-Ho-Kus offers plenty of activities to keep you active and entertained during the dregs of winter.
The Ho-Ho-Kus Education Foundation will hold its annual gala on Friday, March 28 at Seasons in Township of Washington. The Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for students in our community. Since our founding in 1992, the Foundation has awarded over $1.5 million in grants. Our mission is to foster excellence in the classroom for all learners, engage the mind, instill confidence and further open the door of possibility.
The Foundation provides grants for advanced learning tools and resources and raises funding for projects like Ho-Ho-Kus School’s newly installed playground and the STEAM lab.
Find more information at hhkef.org or email hhkedfoundation@gmail.com for tickets or to learn more.
GRATITUDE LUNCHEON
The Bergen County Professional Women’s Network recently held its Gratitude Luncheon at the Park West Tavern Loft in Ridgewood. More than 60 local women business owners, entrepreneurs and professionals were in attendance. Pictured is Executive Director Lisa Pisano, a Ho-Ho-Kus resident, and Marketing Director Natalie Judge.
MAPLE SUGARING AT THE HERMITAGE
Join us on Saturday, Feb. 15 (rain date Feb. 16) as we tap our maple trees for syrup. You’ll learn how to tap your own trees and take home a kit of tap and hose to get you started. Get warm with a quick visit through the Hermitage and have some hot chocolate and cookies. It’s sure to be a fun day for the family. Dress warm!
Time slots are 1, 2 and 3 p.m., and tickets cost $35 per family. Visit thehermitage.org for tickets.
SIP OF HISTORY BOURBON & WINE TASTING
Join us on Friday, March 28 to tour the historic Hermitage and then take part in the tasting of flights of bourbon and wine with Chuck Russo of Wine & Spirit World. The event begins at 6:30 p.m., and tickets are $75 for an individual and $125 for a couple. Light fare will be provided, and the evening will also include a tricky tray. Visit thehermitage.org for tickets.
BOOK CLUBS
The Millennial Book Club meets the fourth Wednesday of each month at Stone & Rail in Glen Rock This discussion group, a partnership between Worth-Pinkham Memorial Library and Glen Rock Public Library, is geared towards individuals born between 1980 and 1995. We welcome new members from all local towns. To stay in the loop and find out what we’re reading, join the group’s Facebook page. Find the link at hohokuslibrary.org.
The Allendale & Ho-Ho-Kus Neighborhood Book Club meets the third Wednesday of each month at a local restaurant. This group is exclusive to residents of Ho-Ho-Kus and Allendale. We read books in a variety of genres. If you are interested in participating, fill out the registration form, which can be found on the library’s website.
Designing Desserts
From a career in architecture to running Cake Bliss from her home kitchen, Karina Ferrales says she draws on her appreciation for the arts and a longtime love of baking to create confections that range from the intricately beautiful to the outrageously cute.
In many ways, studying to become an architect then working in the field at the largest firm in the world prepared Karina Ferrales for her second career as a custom baker.
It’s not just the artistry an architect employs that she has drawn on to create stunningly intricate cookies, cakes and cupcakes under the name Cake Bliss, but the long hours required to meet deadlines have given her the stamina to keep up with demand.
“If I have a lot of orders, I’m usually up very late—maybe 2, 2:30 a.m.,” she said. “As an architect, sometimes I’d be up for days to get drawings out for a client. In a way it’s a similar process. I’m OK with it. I’m a perfectionist about stuff, and I work until I get it as perfect as I want it to be.”
Cake Bliss got its start nearly two decades ago as a joint venture between Ferrales and her sister. The pair would make and decorate desserts for their kids’ birthdays. Party guests, wowed by the delicious and beautiful confections, would comment that
BY SARAH NOLAN
they should start a business.
Ferrales began to take the idea more seriously after resigning from her position at the architecture firm Gensler just before welcoming triplets. It was more feasible for her to stay home with the babies along with a toddler son, she said. Her sister eventually peeled off, and Ferrales kept at it on her own, working out of her Ho-Ho-Kus kitchen.
A love of baking was ingrained in Ferrales at a young age. She spent time in the kitchen with her grandmother, whom she described as a rustic baker, and developed a joy for the skill. This, combined with a love of the arts, is what makes Cake Bliss thrive and keeps Ferrales fulfilled.
The baker has never had formal training, athough she has taken a handful of online courses to learn more about designs or techniques that interest her.
“As an architect, you build models and do things like that in miniature. I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and had an eye for these things and [the business]
fell together nicely,” Ferrales said. “It was a really nice outlet as a mom to still be able to express myself artistically and produce something that I could do at home while raising my kids.”
For many years, Ferrales said Cake Bliss was driven through word of mouth, and she was more focused on raising her family than growing the business. She found great success (and still does) by making donations for tricky trays at the local schools or for club fundraising raffles. She said she appreciates the sense of community and support that a town like Ho-Ho-Kus offers.
Several years ago, the New Jersey Department of Health instituted a state Cottage Food Permit, allowing the sale of home-baked goods directly to consumers (New Jersey was the last state to do so).
Ferrales immediately pursued it, getting a Certified Food Operator permit following a lengthy and costly process after which she felt more comfortable promoting Cake Bliss on social media platforms and expanding the business.
Opposite: Karina Ferrales in her home kitchen, where she operates Cake Bliss. This page: Ferrales rolls dough, ices a heart-shaped cookie and tops it off with sprinkles in preparation for a Valentine’s Day order.
At the same time, her children were growing up. Now that her oldest is in college and the triplets are juniors at Northern Highlands Regional High School, it’s much easier to dedicate time to Cake Bliss, she said.
Once the kids are off to school, she starts baking and works until they get home. She pauses until after dinner and then works through the night. The bulk of baking and decorating is usually done Wednesdays through Fridays in preparation for weekend events and parties. Mondays and
Tuesdays she’s out shopping for ingredients and planning.
Ferrales creates digital sketches of clients’ ideas and works with them to finalize what they’ve dreamed up. She makes custom and personalized sweets for anything from birthdays and holidays to communions, baptisms, graduations and more.
“Sometimes I’ll be so busy, I have to say no to an order which I hate doing,” she said. “I usually find the time to do it. I’m a bit of a workaholic in that sense.”
For more about Cake Bliss, visit the business’s Instagram page: @karinacakebliss.
Clockwise from left: A communion cake by Cake Bliss. Ferrales creates digital mockups for customers before making their treats. A platter of Valentine’s Day cookies looks almost too cute to eat. Engagement party and graduation cookies created by Cake Bliss. Below: Ferrales and her family, from left: Mika, Kata, Rafael, Nico, Ferrales and Kris.
Friendship and Philanthropy
The Contemporary Club of Ho-Ho-Kus celebrates 95 years of uplifting the community through fundraising and meaningful volunteerism, where members work side-by-side building strong bonds along the way.
For nearly a century, The Contemporary Club of Ho-Ho-Kus has existed to better its community. And members say working toward that common goal along with a shared feeling of deep pride in the group’s legacy has led to some of their most cherished friendships.
“To me, it’s about being part of something bigger than yourself and knowing that your involvement helps make this town a better place for everyone,” Club President Meaghan Douglas said. “There is something incredibly special about being part of a group that’s been around
BY SARAH NOLAN
for 95 years—it fosters a sense of deep commitment, community and continuity. The meaningful friendships I’ve developed through the club have made me feel more grounded and at home in Ho-Ho-Kus.”
Founded in 1929, the club emerged when 12 young women arranged a meeting with the president of the Ho-Ho-Kus Women’s Club with the intention of starting a junior department. The group grew to 21 charter members in its first year, when dues were $1.55.
It would continue to evolve through the decades, making an impact both immediately in Ho-Ho-Kus and beyond.
Today, the Contemporary Club has 71 members (16 of which were new to the nonprofit organization in 2024) and hosts a variety of social fundraising events, allocating monies raised to different beneficiaries throughout the borough. Club Vice President Bridget Carroll said events including a Garden Party, Progressive Dinner, the Halloween Trunk or Treat and parade, a couple’s night out for St. Patrick’s Day and the spring fundraiser are key fundraisers for the club. Their goal is to raise $10,000 this calendar year, which runs from July to July. They’ve already reached
The Contemporary Club held its annual Garden Party at a member’s home this past fall. The event serves as one of the club’s biggest fundraisers throughout the year. Members gathered to enjoy food and drinks along with a flower care and arranging demo by Flowers by Joan in Waldwick. Founded in 1929, the club has a rich history. Above, members enjoy events circa the 1940s.
$8,000. The best part is, Carroll said, they’ve had a blast along the way.
“It’s fun to come together and plan events then enjoy a fun night out with friends or a great day with your family,” she said. “It’s enjoyable to work together to build something for our community, and it makes our bond stronger. It’s really a win-win.”
Beneficiaries of the club include the Youth Activities Council, which provides enrichment opportunities to borough children; the Ho-Ho-Kus Public School and the Ho-Ho-Kus-Waldwick Cooperative Nursery School; the Ho-Ho-Kus Senior Citizens group; Worth-Pinkham Memorial
Library; the Community Emergency Reserve Fund (CERF), which helps local families in need of financial assistance; the Angel Fund, an organization that helps children of local families that may be going through a financial and/or personal crisis; and a student scholarship, benefitting a high school senior from Ho-Ho-Kus.
“In a small town like ours, even the smallest contributions make a big impact, and it’s rewarding to see how everyone’s efforts collectively shape the community,” Douglas said.
Monjir Bakshi, second vice president for the club, said she’s enjoyed giving back to
the “vibrant and full of tradition” Ho-HoKus and learning that many of the town’s hallmark events, like Richard’s Run and the school’s Sweetheart Dance, originated as Contemporary Club initiatives.
“Being part of something with such a rich history is incredibly rewarding,” Bakshi said. “It feels special to contribute to something bigger than ourselves, ensuring these traditions continue for future generations.”
Bakshi, Carroll and Douglas each joined the club in 2022, shortly after moving to town during a time when the world was just beginning to awaken following the
This page, clockwise from above: Club Vice President Bridget Carroll with her sons Jack and Colin at one of the club’s family events. Lauren and Casey Zenick decorated a superhero-themed trunk for the club’s Trunk or Treat.
Opposite page: Rachel, Cami and Paul DiBetta with their “Frozen” themed trunk at the club’s Trunk or Treat fundraiser.
THE HISTORY OF THE CONTEMPORARY CLUB
1929: The club forms and is originally called the Junior Women’s Club of Ho-Ho-Kus. It has 21 members by the year’s end and dues cost $1.55.
The Great Depression: Membership reaches a high of 47 and dues are raised to $2.35. Members provide toys and milk to those in need and supply womanpower when called upon. They also frequently travel to New York City to see such notables as Gertrude Lawrence and Ethel Barrymore on Broadway. They support a Girl Scout troop and attend a child psychology class.
Early 1940s: Club members contribute their time and concern toward World War II by knitting sweaters for refugee children, purchasing Defense Bonds and making sandwiches for a local U.S. Army camp.
Mid-late 1940s: The club changes its name to The Contemporary Club. Members knit lap robes for an Army hospital, donate money toward the purchase of baby bassinets at The Valley Hospital and organize the Ho-Ho-Kus Youth Activities Council, formed to provide recreational activities for kids in the community. On Valentine’s Day in 1948, the first YAC Benefit Dance was held (it continues to be a tradition today).
1950s: Members assist in the organization of the Ho-Ho-Kus Memorial Ambulance Corps and petition the governing body to incorporate fluoride in the water.
pandemic. They found it comforting to gather with like-minded women.
Bakshi said through the club, newcomers feel immediately welcomed and invested in the town’s spirit, where everyone is eager to contribute and connect.
“What makes the connections so meaningful is the structure of the club itself: By volunteering and helping to organize events, you’re consistently working with others in ways that might not happen naturally in day-to-day life, especially when you’re busy with young kids,”
Bakshi said. “It challenges you to step outside your comfort zone, make commitments and engage with the community. The result is not just fleeting interactions but deep, meaningful relationships that feel organic and lasting.”
The Contemporary Club is a lways looking for new members. New to town or just eager to connect with fellow residents while making a difference in your community? Visit the club’s website, contemporaryclubhhk.com, to learn more or join.
1960s: The club sponsors a Camp Fire Girls group and publishes a historical map of Ho-Ho-Kus, with proceeds going to the borough library. In honor of the club’s 40th anniversary in 1969, benches are donated to the park at the intersection of Hollywood and Sheridan avenues. Club members are instrumental in getting a traffic light installed at that intersection by conducting a letter writing campaign and staging a stand-in with members, children and babies in strollers.
1970s: The club turns 50 and has 105 members. It continues to be an active part of the community, raising money, doing volunteer work and providing a meeting place for new friends and new ideas through various departments.
1980s-present: The club continues to adjust its focus to meet members’ needs, remaining a group that’s committed to the community and those in it.
Bohemian Meets Modern Luxury at ela rae
Tamar Silva and her best friend Pamela Mufson teamed up in college to form their jewelry company. In the decade-plus since, it has evolved from a small collection of bracelets to a multifaceted brand that’s been sold in big name department stores and boutiques alike, offering gentle yet distinctive choices for every woman.
BY SARAH NOLAN
Imagine one day you’re in college helping your best friend string beaded stretch bracelets to support her side hustle. Then, practically the next day, the design is hand-selected by the iconic Henri Bendel to sell in its Fifth Avenue flagship store.
It sounds like a success story made for the movies. But that’s what happened to Tamar Silva, catapulting her and said best
friend, Pamela Rachel Mufson, toward overnight success with their fashion and fine jewelry company, ela rae, and a partnership that’s “a dream come true.”
“To be able to work with your best friend and be your own boss—it’s given us so much flexibility and so much life,” Silva, a Ho-Ho-Kus resident said. “Pam and I are so synched up. We’ve lived our lives side by side and it’s been incredible.”
Beginnings
Silva and Mufson met as freshman at Northern Valley Regional High School at Old Tappan and immediately hit it off. Mufson began to sell her “distinctly bohemian” beaded bracelets in the Bergen County women’s boutique where she worked. Silva said she would pitch in here and there to help her make them.
Henri Bendel—a now-defunct department store known for introducing new fashions and makeup from up-andcoming designers—would hold its “Open See” to choose who would be given a shot to sell their products in the store. Silva described it as a Shark Tank-like experience. The pair decided to give it a shot and were selected.
Opposite
“It was very unexpected and kind of surreal,” Silva said. “We thought: ‘We have to make how many bracelets by what date?’ But we just kind of did it, and it was a big learning experience for us. It really forced us to start taking this jewelry hobby seriously and realize this could actually be a thing and have a future for us.”
They strung between 1,200 and 1,500 bracelets over winter break, Silva said, driven by excitement and gratefulness for the experience and opportunity. And their hard work paid off. Month after month, their successful sales saw them invited back to Bendels and ela rae (derived from Mufson’s first and middle names) was one of the store’s top five vendors for a good two years.
By this time, Mufson and Silva had graduated from college and were living in Manhattan, working from Mufson’s apartment. They officially partnered and formed an LLC right after finishing school.
As Henri Bendel began to fizzle out and eventually closed, Silva and Mufson brought ela rae to trade shows, going on to do business with more big-name stores like Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom, Free People, Urban Outfitters and Saks Fifth Avenue.
They eventually stopped handmaking the jewelry themselves, hiring a talented and loyal employee that’s been with them for nearly a decade, moving from office to office in the city and even to New Jersey, in Norwood, where the company’s hub is now located.
“Once we started going, we didn’t stop,” Silva said. “This has always been the only job we’ve had out of school— it’s our passion and the brand is constantly evolving.”
This page: Pamela Mufson (left), founder and creative director at ela rae, and Tamar Silva, director of marketing and brand development. The business partners have been best friends since high school.
page: Silva and Mufson at their shop in Henri Bendel.
More is more Indeed, ela rae has grown far beyond its initial hit, the stretch bracelet, to become a multifaceted contemporary jewelry designer, fusing uncomplicated luxury with a refined bohemian aesthetic.
Mufson—the brand’s Creative Director who lives in Closter—said ela rae’s evolution has been a very organic process, driven by her personal style.
“As my style matured, so did the brand, naturally shifting toward more timeless and refined designs,” she said. “Our focus has always been on creating pieces that resonate across generations— designs that aren’t dictated by trends but
instead have the potential to become modern heirlooms.”
Silva, who acts as the brand’s Director of Sales and Marketing, said there’s truly something for everyone at ela rae—styles for women age “18 to 80.”
She described ela rae’s philosophy as “more is more” and urges shoppers to have fun creating their own look.
“The more necklaces you throw on and mix and match, the better,” she said. “Our collection is so wearable and versatile—you can choose five random pieces and throw them on your neck, and they’ll somehow work. You’ll have a beautiful, complete layered look.”
ela rae pieces are meant to be stacked and layered. Top left: Silva sports her favorites necklaces and bracelets from the brand.
Sharing the journey
ela rae offers fashion and fine jewelry, with prices ranging from $48 up to a few thousand, Silva said, depending on the materials. The company takes the quality of its pieces very seriously, she said, as they personally would not want to wear something that might tarnish and not have a full life.
Fashion pieces are made from sterling silver and mostly plated in 14K gold. Semi-precious stones including emeralds, turquoise, rubies, garnets, moonstone and labradorite offer a nice pop of color, helping the designer achieve that “bohemian yet chic put-together look.”
The duo is incredibly appreciative of the sense of establishment and reputability that selling in big name stores gave ela rae, Silva said. But since 2020 and the pandemic, they’ve scaled business back and returned to their roots of selling in smaller boutiques (if you’re looking for the brand in-store locally, check out Hartly in Westwood).
“We love that we can really connect with the buyers,” Silva said. “They know our jewelry, they know us and once a store owner stands behind a brand, it really helps with the whole customer experience. It’s a lot more manageable and personal, and that’s really important to Pam and I.”
Though it’s been quite a journey from Mufson’s bedroom floor stringing bracelets to Bendels and beyond, amazingly, the business owners are still very much in synch.
They got married to their husbands within two months of each other and welcomed baby boys only six months apart. Silva just welcomed a baby girl, and would you believe it? Mufson is expecting a baby girl in March.
“Starting and running a business can sometimes feel like a rollercoaster,” Mufson said. “I feel incredibly fortunate to share this journey with Tamar—it’s a bond that makes the experience all the more meaningful. We’ve grown so much together, from our days living in New York City after college to now navigating the joys and responsibilities of starting families. Our lives have evolved side-by-side, and the lessons we’ve learned along the way have strengthened both our friendship and our partnership.”
For more about the company, visit the designer’s website, elarae.com, and Instagram page @elaraejewelry.
Above: Silva and her husband, Kevin, in New York City before their move to Ho-Ho-Kus in September. Below: Silva and her husband with their son, Wesley, and daughter, Vivian.
A Culinary Journey
With plans to blend tradition and innovation, Chef Stefan Ondrus and his wife Vanda are honored to take the helm at the beloved St. Eve’s, where they hope to connect with their patrons while delivering an exceptional dining experience.
BY SARAH NOLAN
From the Slovakian countryside, where his love for cooking flourished working and learning alongside his grandmother, to Pennsylvania, New York City and finally New Jersey, Chef Stefan Ondrus feels destined to have landed at St. Eve’s in Ho-Ho-Kus. He and his wife, Vanda, are the new owners of the borough gem as of December, and say they feel honored to carry on the beloved legacy of the restaurant, planning to blend tradition with innovation as they get to know their clientele. Stefan brings decades of experience and knowledge of a
variety of cuisines to St. Eve’s. He worked as the executive chef at Pier 115 in Edgewater for a decade before coming to the more intimate Ho-Ho-Kus eatery.
“I always wanted to cook somewhere where I could have a more personal connection with the people coming in and trying my food,” he said. “I want to get to know them and become part of the community. It’s not always just about the food—it’s the experience you have from the time you walk in the door to when you leave. Good food, good espresso, good dessert but also good company.”
Opposite page: Chef Stefan Ondrus. This page, top: Stefan and Vanda Ondrus. Above: St. Eve’s is located at 611 N Maple Ave.
Gaining experience
Stefan said he began cooking early in life, usually alongside his grandmother, and decided to further his education by attending culinary school in his home country of Slovakia.
There, he was exposed to a variety of cuisines as the central European country sees influence from surrounding countries including Austria, Poland, Hungary, Germany, France and Italy.
He was ready for a change and moved to the United States when he was 21. He started off at a restaurant called Garden of Eden in Milford, Pennsylvania, where he met Vanda. Believe it or not, she is also from Slovakia. She came to the United
States in 2000 and began her career in real estate in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania.
A mutual acquaintance mentioned that the chef in a nearby restaurant was from her homeland and the rest, the pair says, is history.
They decided to move to New York City, where Stefan says the real culinary journey began. He gained valuable experience working in fine dining French cuisine at René Pujol Restaurant then honed his craft as a sous-chef under renowned Executive Chef Craig Hopson at One if by Land, Two if by Sea. In 2011, he joined the BLT Restaurant Group, an international restaurant and hospitality company, and though the corporate life didn’t suit
him, he refined his expertise in modern American cuisine alongside Executive Chef Laurent Tourondel while there.
The chef did freelance and private catering work before a stint at AOA Bar and Grill. It was there that one of the owners approached him to be the executive chef at Pier 115, a new restaurant in Edgewater along the Hudson River with indoor and outdoor seating for 400. He would go on to help owners establish two other restaurant/venues, Hudson & Co. in Jersey City and Acqua Catering & Events in Edgewater.
Moving on to the much smaller St. Eve’s was a welcome step. The couple and their two children now live in nearby Westwood
Left: Vanda and Stefan Ondrus with their children, Max and Zoe. Above: Pork belly with spicy barbecue sauce and tangy coleslaw. Below, from left: Roasted yellow beets; Prince Edward Island mussels.
and are seeking connection with customers, the kind that can be achieved in a small town like Ho-Ho-Kus.
Taking over for Steve and Judi Christianson, who opened the restaurant in 2011, Stefan is sticking with the existing menu, which Vanda says has something for everyone—from starters like the Endive & Apple Salad and Filet Mignon Ravioli, to main dishes like the Berkshire Pork Chop featuring cranberry, apple, dried fruit compote and sweet potato pie and the unique Moulard Duck Breast with spiced applepear compote, a wild rice medley and port wine jus.
In addition, Stefan is offering new
specials to discover what patrons like and what could potentially be integrated into the menu.
“ We’ve gotten positive feedback and nice reviews which tells us we’re moving in the right direction,” Vanda, who will be front of the house while continuing her career in real estate said. “Obviously without customers, we’re not here, so we want to make sure that they’re happy and we want to keep them entertained. We’re hoping to bring in some music to pair with a nice evening out for dinner.”
St. Eve’s is currently open for dinner Wednesdays through Sundays. The new owners plan to continue hosting private parties and events in a space they say
offers great seating capacity while still maintaining an intimate feel. Customers may notice small cosmetic updates, as the couple makes some changes to give the place their own touch. However, they’ve kept the same staff at the BYOB establishment, making it a seamless process.
“We really wanted to make it an easy transition for the customers, as they’re getting used to us and seeing that we’re as committed to them as they are to us,” Vanda said. “We’re looking forward to growing in this community with them as well.”
For information more about St. Eve’s, visit stevesnj.com.
Clockwise from top: Alaskan halibut. Long Island duck breast. Tiramisu.
Allie Lim works in the Community Garden.
Hometown Hero
Allie Lim was recognized for her work to establish the borough’s first Community Garden, receiving an award that celebrates those who make their corner of the world a better place to live.
BY SARAH NOLAN
Allie Lim, who spearheaded the Ho-Ho-Kus Community Garden, was recently honored as a Hometown Hero in the Fifth District by Rep. Josh Gottheimer. The acknowledgement celebrates residents’ dedication to helping improve the lives of neighbors, families and communities.
Lim, who had previously started a garden with her Girl Scout troop at HoHo-Kus Public School, wanted to create a space where all residents could come together and bond through the shared goal of growing food for those in need.
She partnered with the Ho-Ho-Kus Shade Tree and Beautification Committee to see the project come to fruition this past spring. By the end of the season in November, garden volunteers had harvested 730 pounds of organic produce under Lim’s leadership, the vast majority of which was donated to Oasis – A Haven for Women and Children in Paterson.
“If you tune into cable, or go onto
social media, there is far more attention these days on what’s going wrong with America and far too little attention on what’s going right,” Gottheimer said. “But then, stories crop up here and there of an EMT who has saved countless lives and volunteered decades of service or a young student going above and beyond to help those less fortunate. You realize that we just don’t spend enough time showcasing all of the good that happens every day— not enough time recognizing what it means to be a great citizen in the greatest country in the world.”
Lim was nominated by the Mayor and Council and an award ceremony was held at Ramapo College in December.
“The Mayor and Council are deeply grateful for Allison’s unbridled dedication and hard work toward this charitable initiative,” the governing body said in a statement. “Her inspiring volunteerism represents the highest standard of what
makes Ho-Ho-Kus a truly special place to live.”
Lim said she was incredibly honored and humbled to receive the award and thankful for the recognition of the good that’s come from the garden.
“What started as a space to grow and share food with those in need has evolved—in just one season—into a net work that brings the community together on so many levels,” she said. “I am so proud of the work we’re doing in the garden and am extremely appreciative of the support of our Mayor and Council and the incredible dedication of our DPW workers and garden volunteers, including my righthand gal, Lisa Perricelli. We have so much more in store for 2025!”
For more about the Community Garden, visit hhkborough.com/ho-hokus-community-garden or on Instagram @hungry_harvest_garden.
Left: Lim and her “right-hand gal” Lisa Perricelli in the garden during a Farm Stand event. Right: From left, Councilman Kevin Crossley, Rep. Josh Gottheimer, award winner Lim, Mayor Thomas Randall and Lim’s husband, Fred.
Keys to a Healthier Heart
For American Heart Month, know the signs of a heart attack—and how to prevent one.
Heart disease can be insidious, creeping up slowly and seemingly without warning. Often it can be “silent,” too, with no obvious symptoms until a crisis or emergency—like a heart attack—strikes.
The American Heart Association (AHA) notes that heart attacks often involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back. They can also feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.
But other symptoms can also indicate a heart attack. These include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, or the back, neck, jaw or stomach. Shortness of breath, breaking out in a cold sweat and experiencing nausea or lightheadedness can be red flags as well.
Women in particular should pay attention to changes in how they feel, especially new-onset shortness of breath, chest area discomfort or decreased activity tolerance. Women often have atypical symptoms, and any new symptoms should be discussed with a health care provider.
February is the AHA’s American Heart Month, which is an ideal time to understand not only symptoms of heart trouble but also how you can reduce your cardiovascular risks with key steps like these.
1. MONITOR YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE. Having elevated blood pressure can directly affect the heart, which can enlarge and weaken over time if blood pressure is not controlled. Normal blood pressure is less than 120/80. Talk with your doctor about higher numbers.
2. EAT A HEARTHEALTHY DIET. Reduce added sugar and salt; eat a diet that contains whole grains, lean proteins and fruits and vegetables; avoid saturated fats; and reduce cholesterol. A Mediterranean diet is a healthy option to consider.
3.
AVOID
OVEREATING. In addition to causing weight gain, eating heavy meals and large portions causes your body to work overtime and increases your heart rate. Fatty meals are particularly taxing.
4. EXERCISE. Take a brisk walk, ride a bike, swim, dance—just get moving, and aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day, incorporating strength training twice a week. Exercise is essential for overall good health, helping with weight loss/control, lowering blood pressure, improving oxygen flow to muscles and decreasing emotional stress.
5. QUIT SMOKING.
After one year, your risk of developing heart disease will be cut by half.
6. MANAGE STRESS. Stress can have a profound effect on your heart health by inducing the release of stress hormones that in turn can cause an increase in blood pressure and injury to the inner layer of your heart vessels (endothelium)—factors that can contribute to a heart attack. Yoga and meditation are just two things that can help you manage stress. Speak to your doctor about other options.
7. SLEEP WELL. Sleep is important but it’s not just about getting enough sleep, which for most adults should range from seven to nine hours per night. Restful, restorative sleep also matters. Go to bed at about the same time every night; sleep in a cool, dark room; and turn off electronic devices such as cell phones and tablets.
WARNING SIGNS OF A HEART ATTACK
The American Heart Association lists a number of common warning signs of a heart attack. There is overlap in symptoms experienced by men and women, but women often have some symptoms that can be different or subtle, or may be attributed to just aches and pains, the flu or heartburn. If you think you’re having a heart attack, call 911. Be alert for signs like these:
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Lightheadedness, nausea or vomiting
• Jaw, neck or back pain
• Discomfort or pain in the arm or shoulder
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness or fainting
• Cold sweats
• Pain or pressure in the lower chest or upper abdomen
• Indigestion
Offering a Personal Touch to Home Health Care
Interim HealthCare is available for all of your home care needs.
As we all age, many of us may require additional assistance with daily tasks and personal care. Interim HealthCare in Ridgewood located at 27 Chestnut St., provides a range of services, from support after hospital visits to specialized home health care, ensuring clients receive personalized care tailored to their needs. Interim Healthcare has been in Ridgewood for over 10 years and services Bergen County, not just Ridgewood. Interim Healthcare is private duty home care. Care services at Interim HealthCare include non-medical support from caregivers who assist with activities such as bathing, toileting, meal preparation, laundry, dressing, getting to appointments and taking medication on time. Caregivers prioritize risk management to ensure
clients’ safety.
When a client begins services with Interim, they first receive an assessment from the Director of Healthcare Services, Fran Bakker, who has been with the company for 10 years. She meets with the family and does a nursing assessment and then creates the Plan of Care. After this, the team of professionals works together to match an aide with the client. Interim has a high retention rate of more than 80% of caregivers, a rarity in this industry.
Interim HealthCare takes pride in the fact that they provide their client with continuity of care rather than offering a revolving door of caregivers.
Service can be either live-in or hired hourly in 5, 8, 10 or 12 hour
shifts. Compared to assisted living facilities, home health care services are often more affordable and can provide additional support, such as personal care, that facilities may not offer. Some residents of assisted living facilities still rely on personal caregivers for specialized help. Looking ahead at 2025, Interim HealthCare is focused on ensuring both clients and caregivers feel healthier and happier than ever.
We want clients to know we care about your family, too. We are here to do whatever is best for them and to help you out also.
For further information, please visit our website: interimhealthcare.com/ridgewood or contact us at 201-299-4243.
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
Romantic Reads
Worth-Pinkham Memorial Library’s director offers this list of novels perfect to pick up during this month when we celebrate love. She breaks them down into categories, depending on your taste.
BY MORGAN TAYLOR
PARALLEL NARRATIVES:
Weaving together multiple storylines within a single work
“The Matchmaker’s Gift” by Lynda Cohen Loigman
A heartwarming story of two extraordinary women from different eras who defy expectations to realize their unique gift of seeing soulmates in the most unexpected places.
“Husbands & Lovers” by Beatriz Williams
Two women, separated by decades and continents, but sharing an exotic family heirloom, search for their lost loves and reclaim secrets.
“In the Likely Event” by Rebecca Yarros
Izzy and Nate, two people with undeniable chemistry who met on a plane that crashed, can never seem to reconnect over the ensuing years until a high-stakes reunion in Afghanistan puts their lives on the line again.
THROWN TOGETHER:
Two people are unexpectedly stuck spending time in close quarters
“Never Ever Getting Back Together” by Sophie Gonzales
When their now-famous exboyfriend asks them to participate in a teen reality show, two
eighteen year-old girls—one bent on revenge, the other open to rekindling romance—get tangled up in an unexpected twist when they fall for each other instead.
“Icebreaker” by Hannah Grace
Sparks fly when a competitive figure skater and hockey team captain are forced to share a rink.
RETELLINGS:
Iconic stories with a new flare
“Pride and Premeditation” by Tirzah Price
It is a truth universally acknowledged that a young woman who desires a law career must be in want of a case. So when sixteen year old Lizzie Bennet hears about a scandalous society murder, she sees an opportunity to prove herself as a solicitor by solving the case and ensuring justice is served.
“Gwen & Art Are Not in Love” by Lex Croucher
Forced to spend the summer together at Camelot in the run up to their nuptials, Arthur and Gwendoline, betrothed since birth, discover they make better allies than enemies as they cover for each other so they can pursue their real romantic interests.
“Daughter of the Moon Goddess” by Sue Lynn Tan
In this debut fantasy novel inspired
by the legend of the Chinese moon goddess Chang’e, a young woman’s quest to free her mother pits her against the most powerful immortal in the realm and sets her on a dangerous path, where choices come with deadly consequences, and she risks losing more than her heart.
COMING SOON IN 2025:
Add these books to your to-read list
“Crush” by Ada Calhoun (Feb. 25)
When a husband asks his wife to consider what might be missing from their marriage, what follows surprises them both—sex, heartbreak and rekindling, along with a rediscovered sense of all that is possible.
“Back After This” by Linda Holmes (Feb. 25)
A podcast producer agrees to host a new series about modern dating —but will the show jeopardize her chance at finding real love?
“Jane and Dan at the End of the World” by Colleen Oakley (March 11)
Date night goes off the rails in this hilariously insightful take on midlife and marriage when one unhappy couple find themselves at the heart of a crime in progress.
A Serene Scene
The sun peeks through tree branches over the Ho-Ho-Kus Brook, offering a hint of warmth during a frigidly cold and blustery day last month.
Have a great image for Photo Op? Submit your high-resolution shot to editor@hohokusmagazine.com.
