Health + Wellness

Grieving Through It

Britta Mulderrig is the founder of Jasper, a platform that helps people process grief. Article by Ariella Steinhorn | Photography by Stephanie Lynn Studios Tell us about the idea to create Jasper? To know me over the last 15 years was to know my dog Jasper. Jasper was my baby.  Jasper passed away a year-and-a-half ago. During that time, two of my best friends lost parents. We started to have these profound conversations about loss and purpose, and also about “disenfranchised” grief...

Arts + Culture

Beautiful Balloons

How Balloon Chica Takes Balloon Art To New Heights Article by Nicole Zamlout | Photography by Maria Ramos Arias For Maria Ramos Arias, founder of Balloon Chica, balloon art is not just a business —­it is a lifelong passion that brings so much joy to the Pascack Valley. Arias discovered balloon art back when she was working as a character actor with a children’s entertainment company. It was there that she learned the art of balloon twisting before the company moved to Florida, leaving Arias to...

Food + Beverage

Banana Oat Cookies

A Tasty And Healthy Back To School Treat Article by Nicole Zamlout Back to School is just around the corner, and these Banana Oat Cookies are a perfect addition to any lunchbox! With a mix of healthy and sweet ingredients, these cookies are a great snack for kids of all ages. Check out these incredible Banana Oat Cookies.  Ingredients  1 ripe banana (mashed) 1/4 cup of organic peanut or nut butter 1 cup of rolled oats  1/3 cup of dark chocolate chips  1/3 chopped peanuts    ...

Local Services

Read, Play, Grow!

How the Westwood Public Library Makes Summer Learning Fun Before Back-to-School Season Article by Nicole Zamlout | Photography by Catherine DiLeo Catherine DiLeo and Sienna Tracey are doing more than just keeping kids entertained at the Westwood Public Library — they’re helping build a brighter future for the Pascack Valley. Although the library’s children’s programming has long been a community staple, DiLeo and Tracey revitalized it after stepping into their roles less than a year ago...

Local Services

The Bunny Hive

Bergen County’s Sweetest New Spot for Little Ones Has Arrived Article by Nicole Zamlout | Photography by Angela Beth Studios This fall, Pascack Valley families will have a new way to connect, grow and play—together. Local mom and educator Barbara Brown is set to open The Bunny Hive, a children’s studio offering classes and experiences designed for both children and their caregivers. Brown’s journey with The Bunny Hive began when she sought a new business opportunity that could include her two...

Sports + Recreation

From Mat to Mindset

How Pascack Valley and Pascack Hills’ Kids Wrestling Teams Help Students Build Strength and Confidence Article by Nicole Zamlout | Photography by John Vitacco and Matt McEllen John Vitacco and Matt McEllen are doing more than simply coaching young athletes in wrestling — they are helping kids across the Pascack Valley learn to take on life’s challenges head-on with confidence. The Pascack Valley and Pascack Hills Kids Wrestling programs have been cornerstones of the community for decades. As...

Health + Wellness

Fresh Starts for Young Minds

Tenafly Pediatrics’ Dr. Saks Shares Practical Tips For Raising Healthy, Happy Kids—Mind, Body, and Spirit. Article by Dr. Darren Saks | Photography by Jeremy Lebled Tenafly Pediatrics’ dedication to children’s health is not only admirable—it’s deeply rewarding for the doctors who watch their young patients grow year after year. Founded in 1976 with just two pediatricians in Tenafly, the practice has since expanded to 10 locations across northeastern New Jersey, thanks to its trusted reputation...

Professional Services

Hopping Toward Success

How Simple Rabbit Helps Businesses Thrive Online Article by Nicole Zamlout | Photography by Charissa H. Yong Photography A longtime Pascack Valley resident, Leann Frank launched her website design studio, Simple Rabbit, in 2023, after spending nearly a decade raising her three boys. Eager for a creative outlet, she shifted from freelance writing to self-taught web design, unlocking a new way to support small businesses throughout Bergen County. “I really wanted to help entrepreneurs grow a...

Home Services

Diving Deep

B&B Pool and Spa Is Set to Help Your Pool Stay Cannonball Ready This Summer Article by Nicole Zamlout | Photography by B&B Pool and Spa Center B&B Pool and Spa Center has been helping families in Bergen County set up and maintain their pools for years —and this summer is no exception. Though B&B Pool and Spa was founded in 1972, the Bagin family has been in the pool industry for generations. Derek Bagin is the latest to take on that legacy of excellent construction service, joining the family...

Food + Beverage

Stone Fruit Caprese

An Easy and Delicious Appetizer For Any Summer Bash Article by Nicole Zamlout Summer is the best time to enjoy some delicious fresh fruit and cheese, and this Stone Fruit Caprese takes full advantage of the season's offerings! With succulent peaches, nectarines, and cherries paired with mouthwatering mozzarella, this appetizer is perfect for any Fourth of July party or backyard getaway. Check out this incredible Stone Fruit Caprese.  Ingredients:  For The Caprese 8 oz mozzarella ball  ...