No.123

Good neighbors, great reads, and a little autumn

Week of November 1, 2026

Dear Wyckoff,

The Dooners — Danny and his son Daniel — share a business, a work ethic, and a full life outside of work too, as Lynn Bruggemann discovers in this issue's feature. Michelle Zorbas of Kitchen Wise | Closet Wise of Bergen County follows with smart, practical ways to lighten your holiday load before the season gets away from you. Lexi Breunig shows how a few small pumpkins and taper candles can become a beautiful autumn centerpiece, and our Pet Corner introduces Mia, a Portuguese Water Dog with a surprising dislike of water. Veterans are welcomed at the Y on November 9. Enjoy.

Doug Drohan, Publisher

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The Dooners

Like father, like son, at work and at play

By Lynn Bruggemann

Erika Caucaus Photography

Danny Dooner built Vent Viper from the ground up in Wyckoff after years as a stagehand at Madison Square Garden and NBC's Today Show. Now his son Daniel works alongside him — and together they fish, cook, and garden too. Their story is a heartwarming portrait of a father-son duo who truly live by the motto 'work hard, play hard.'

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The 2026 Midterms: What They Could Mean for Markets

And What They Should Mean for Your Financial Plan

By Taylor Thomas, CFP®,AEP®, Director of Financial Planning & Wealth Advisor, NCM Capital Management LLC

The 2026 Midterms: What They Could Mean for Markets

With all 435 House seats and 35 Senate seats on the line, investors are asking what the 2026 midterms mean for their portfolios. But the more powerful question may be whether your financial plan is strong enough that you don't need to know who wins. Explore what history, interest rates, inflation, and tax policy really mean for your money.

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Minimize Holiday Stress: The Gift of Planning

By Michelle Zorbas, Owner Kitchen Wise| Closet Wise of Bergen County

The holiday season brings joy — and stress. Certified Professional Organizer Michelle Zorbas of Kitchen Wise | Closet Wise of Bergen County shares practical tips to lighten your mental load. From mailing cards before Thanksgiving to using Evites for dinner planning and tracking gifts on your phone, these strategies can help you stay merry and efficient all season long.

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Just for fun

Around Wyckoff

Spotlights

DIY Pumpkin Candle Holders

By Lexi Breunig

Bring a little autumn charm to your table with these simple pumpkin candle holders that transform petite pumpkins into the perfect festive centerpiece. This easy DIY takes just a few minutes and requires only small pumpkins, a carving tool, and taper candles. Follow these simple steps to create a stunning seasonal display for your dining table, mantel, or grouped together on a tray.

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Meet Mila

By Lynn Bruggemann

Meet Mia, a 4½-year-old Portuguese Water Dog who understands Portuguese commands, loves hiking the Franklin Lakes Preserve, and has a surprising secret — despite her breed, she wants nothing to do with water! Get to know this road-tripping, sweet-potato-treat-loving pup who recently explored Savannah and Charleston on a Florida adventure.

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