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“La Casa Di Dolce” Brings Authentic Italian Baked Goods to Rockland County

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Bringing a Taste of Italy to Rockland County: 

When Jaclyn Ryan-Henry relocated from Bensonhurst, Brooklyn to Rockland County, she brought with her more than just personal belongings. She carried the treasured recipes, memories, and traditions passed down from her Italian grandmother — her Nonna — who was born and raised in the town of Cantalupo, Italy.

By day, Ryan-Henry serves as a dedicated Director and clinician in a local healthcare facility. But outside of her professional life, she has channeled her lifelong passion for baking into her growing small business, The Home Kitchen of La Casa Di Dolce.

After struggling to find authentic Italian cookies and pastries in her new hometown, Ryan-Henry recognized a void in the local market. Drawing from years of experience in the kitchen — and the heartfelt influence of her Nonna — she began recreating traditional Italian baked goods, bringing comfort and cultural richness to the Rockland County community.

Reviving Tradition Through Baking

At La Casa Di Dolce, Ryan-Henry bakes an extensive variety of Italian classics, including:

  • Cuccidati (Italian fig cookies)

  • Biscotti di casa (traditional Italian dunking cookies)

  • Crostata (Italian baked tart)

  • Struffoli (Italian honey ball cookies)

  • Bow ties (Chiacchiere)

  • Seven-layer cookies and cakes

  • Seven-layer donuts

Her offerings also extend to American and Irish favorites, including crumb cake, cupcakes, sugar cookies, cake pops, cake jars, and fully customized layer cakes and dessert trays for special occasions.

Each item is made fresh in her home kitchen, with recipes that have been passed down through generations. “Baking with my Nonna was just an ordinary day in our household,” Ryan-Henry says. “She always had something in the oven, and always made enough to feed whoever walked through the door. That sense of warmth and generosity inspires everything I do.”

From Family Tradition to Community Impact

What began as a personal and family-centered tradition has blossomed into a local business rooted in cultural pride and culinary authenticity. Ryan-Henry has long shared her baked goods with family, friends, coworkers, and neighbors — often gifting her creations during holidays and community events. The enthusiastic response encouraged her to formalize her passion into a licensed home processor business.

Her mission is simple: to bring a piece of Italy into every home, one cookie at a time.

A Local Business with Heart

The Home Kitchen of La Casa Di Dolce is more than just a bakery. It’s a tribute to family, heritage, and the enduring power of tradition. Ryan-Henry encourages customers to reach out with custom requests. “If there’s something you’re looking for and don’t see it listed, just ask,” she says. “Everything I bake is inspired by love, tradition, and the joy of sharing.”

As her Nonna always said: “Mangiare” — Eat.

The holidays are around the corner be sure to place an order early or to inquire about available baked goods, contact:

Jaclyn Ryan-Henry
Home Processor
Phone: 718-207-9180
Email: lacasadidolce19@gmail.com

Business

RCC Food Enthusiast Program Brings Hands-On Culinary Classes to Rockland

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NYACK, N.Y. — Rockland Community College’s Hospitality and Culinary Arts Center is once again offering its popular Food Enthusiast Program, a series of hands-on cooking classes for local food lovers and home cooks of all experience levels.

Held at the center’s teaching kitchens at 70 Main Street in downtown Nyack, the Food Enthusiast Program invites community members to learn new techniques, explore a variety of cuisines and prepare meals alongside professional chefs and culinary instructors. All food, equipment and supplies are provided, and participants typically get to taste the dishes they make or bring them home afterward.

Sessions in the program are typically priced at $75 per person, with class sizes capped at around 20 participants to ensure individualized attention.

Previous and upcoming classes have included themed lessons such as artisan breads, international cuisine, seasonal menus, and specialty dishes — offering something for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

The Food Enthusiast Program has drawn accolades from the region’s culinary community. Past editions were named “Best Cooking Class” by Hudson Valley Magazine, and RCC’s Culinary Arts program was ranked among the top in New York by Chef’s Pencil.

Interested participants can register online or contact the Hospitality and Culinary Arts Center directly for class schedules and details. For more information, call 845-875-7571 or visit RCC’s website.

The Line Up:

Wednesday, Feb 25th
“Let’s get Stewed” ! with Chef Steve Brunner
In this winter classic, learn critical Knife Skills & techniques on assorted vegetables & meats. We will prepare & take home the hearty Stews & Soups we make.
Thursday, March 12th
Mexicali Blues” with Chef Steve Brunner
Prepare a variety of traditional Mexican dishes through demonstrations & hands-on training.
Guacamole, Pico de GalloSalsa Verde as well as Chicken & Cheese Quesadillas, Mexican Street Corn, & Zesty Shrimp Salsa w Tortilla crisps.
Thursday March 26
“Easter a la Italiano” with Chef Don Eagle
Certified Executive Chef Don Eagle is coming here to teach you 2 classic Italian dishes Pizza Rustica and Panzanella Salad.
 Thursday April 2 
“Let’s get Tropical” with Chef Katie Lewis.
Key Lime Pie and Mock Mojitos. Bring your own rum and they will be mock no more.
 Thursday April 9th
“Chillin & Grillin” with Chef Steve Brunner
In this Spring awakening class, we will discuss & prepare a variety Spice Blends & Marinades you will use to Grill a variety of meats & vegetables at your own grilling station. These simple methods are easy to master & will become another enjoyable part of your culinary repertoire for years to come.
Thursday April 23
“Dinner Indian Style” with Chef Hemangini Rathore
Enjoy the extraordinary flavors of India as Chef Hema teaches you to make Chicken Tikka Masala, Biryani Rice, and Chutney (menu subject to change)
Thursday May 7
Making Macarons with Chef Pam Sangen
Learn how to make these ethereal French Pastries with their contrasting textures in a variety of flavors and colors.

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Business

Down to Earth Living Shares Winter Indoor Plant Care Tips

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POMONA, N.Y. — While outdoor gardens are dormant during winter, indoor plants require adjusted care to stay healthy, according to experts at Down to Earth Living.

“Most houseplants slow their growth significantly in winter,” said Stuart Leventhal, owner of Down to Earth Living. “Simple changes to watering, light, and placement can reduce stress and support plant health until spring.”

Among the most common winter issues are overwatering, low light, and dry indoor air.

Experts recommend watering only when the top inch or two of soil is dry, as most plants require less moisture during colder months. Moving plants closer to south- or west-facing windows and rotating them regularly can help compensate for shorter days. For tropical plants, increasing humidity through pebble trays or humidifiers can prevent dryness caused by indoor heating.

Fertilizing should generally be paused until late February or March, unless plants are actively growing under grow lights. Homeowners are also advised to monitor for common winter pests and wipe leaves clean to improve light absorption.

Down to Earth Living will reopen for the season on March 10 and will offer free on-site potting and re-potting services for customers purchasing houseplants or containers. The garden center, located at 1040 Route 45 in Pomona, serves Rockland, Bergen, Orange counties and the Hudson Valley.

For more information, call 845-354-8500 or visit dteliving.com.

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