Hidden Gems Await!
Dr. Mark I. Khaimov, D.D.S.
At MK Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, Dr. Mark Khaimov provides cutting-edge periodontal care in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Specializing in dental implants, gum health, and jaw support, Dr. Khaimov uses advanced treatments like Teeth-in-a-Day (All-on-4 ®), Pinhole Surgical Technique, Laser Gum Therapy (LANAP ®), and Piezosurgery to address everything from early gum disease to complex tooth loss. Conveniently located in Nutley and Florham Park, we proudly serve Essex and Morris County, offering personalized care with respect and compassion. Discover the difference expert periodontal care can make for your smile. Our Mission & Promise to Patients: “From dental implants and cosmetics to gum disease, our mission is to rejuvenate our patients’ smiles making sure that they return to the quality of life that they deserve.” - Dr. Mark Khaimov.
LIFESTYLE LETTER
July 2025 – Hidden Gems Await!
There's just something about summer that brings about a sense of excitement and adventure.
Sure, fall has my favorite flavors and scents, winter has its cozy charms, and I can't deny the beauty of spring. But when the summer solstice rolls around, I’m more than ready for the long, languid days sitting by the pool or floating on a boat.
Within the pages of our Hidden Gems Await issue you will discover the a wonderful outdoor sculpture garden, a delicious hot and trending restaurant in LBI, how you can upgrade the interior doors of your home with the latest 3D technology in just one day and so much more!
My family loves to explore new places to visit and build summer fun memories together each year. There's something about being visiting a new place, trying a new drink or place to dine that feels so rejuvenating and refreshing.
Just like this season has a way of bringing people together, we hope the pages inside this month’s issue will enrich and enliven your experience of our garden state this summer!
If you have interesting, fun, and meaningful stories to share or are a business looking to grow within our community and the surrounding area, we would love to hear from you. Contact John.Meyer@citylifestyle.com for advertising opportunities and Ana.Meyer@citylifestyle.com for editorials or call us at 973-944-1440.
Happy 4th of July!
We look forward to seeing you around town!
JOHN MEYER, PUBLISHER & ANA MEYER, CO-PUBLISHER @CHATHAMSHORTHILLS
July 2025
PUBLISHER
John Meyer | john.meyer@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Ana Meyer | ana.meyer@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Ana Meyer | ana.meyer@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Benjamin Meyer
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Kelsey Harper
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sue Baldani, Ben Meyer
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Chris Jorda Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Cooperman Barnabas executives at Millburn Short Hills Chamber of Commerce EATALY Sip Into Spring Event. 2: Chamber President, Ana Meyer(left), Nisha Varma(right)_Millburn Short Hills Chamber of Commerce EATALY Event Sponsors. 3: Glaze salon basket winner @Summit Speech School fundraiser with Glaze owner, Cindi Galiher, Westin Morristown. 4: Samir and Sefali Patel enjoying the Eataly Sip into Spring event 5: Ross Fields and Laura Landau of London Jewelers at the Eataly Event 6: Summit Speech Event with Jenna Bush 7:Summit Speech Event with Jenna Bush
Where Beautiful Hair Is Just the Beginning
Step into GLAZE Salon, where your hair transformation is just the beginning. From precision cuts to flawless color, Brazilian blowouts, hair extensions, and luxurious eyelashes, our expert stylists work with you to bring out your inner beauty while keeping your hair healthy our number one priority. Explore our newly renovated salon and discover a curated collection of unique gifts in our retail shop.
Welcome Szeles Construction to the
Szeles Construction specializes in home additions, custom remodeling, historic renovation and specialty projects. Our project diversity and commitment to quality has allowed us to exceed client needs and expectations for over 12 years. As an owner operated business, we walk with you in every step, from dream to reality, to make sure you are more than satisfied with your remodeling project. We believe that strong relationships are the foundation of every successful building project.
Experience the difference at GLAZE Salon!
At GLAZE Salon in Chatham, beautiful hair is just the beginning! GLAZE offers top hairstyling, coloring, and the latest hair treatments. Their NYC designed inspired salon provides a relaxing escape. Enjoy a cappuccino, while expert stylists make you look and feel your best. Enjoy hair and lash extensions, nails and waxing. Shop for unique gifts including sugarfina, handbags, candles, diffusers and quality hair products. Experience the difference at GLAZE Salon! https://glazesalon.com/
AN EXTRAORDINARY OUTDOOR MUSEUM
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Delightful treasures can be found in every direction
Before you even get to Grounds For Sculpture in Hamilton, you’ll see incredible art sculptures along the local roads. It’s a tantalizing introduction for what you’ll see when you arrive at the 42-acre property.
Walking around the beautiful gardens is a pleasure in itself, but being able to view magnificent sculptures at the same time is a truly unique experience. While many of the over 300 pieces of art throughout the property are out in the open, others may be a little harder, and fun, to find. Off the main walkway you may see a little path and wonder, “What’s down that way?” It may be a sculpture of people having a picnic by a small pond, and in that pond you’ll see a sculpture of a boat and some ducks. More hidden paths lead to other delightful finds.
“That sense of discovery and surprise is such a big part of how the garden was designed,” says Executive Director, Gary Garrido Schneider. “There are quiet areas of contemplation, but then there’s the awe of something spectacularly big and unexpected.” It’s said that the ponds by the Van Gogh Café and Gazebo are full of sacred lotus. When in bloom, they are just glorious.
Photo Credit: David Michael Howarth Photography
Photo Credit: David Michael Howarth Photography
The garden is welcoming all year round when the spring and summer flowers are in full bloom and when the leaves are bursting with colors in the fall. Wintertime has its own picturesque beauty.
Many of the sculptures stay the same, but others are changed out occasionally, so frequent visitors can still see their favorites, but there’s always something new to see too. Some sculptures move from indoor buildings to the gardens, such as Put Yourself in the Picture by Roberto Lugo, which was acquired after his 2022 show Roberto Lugo: The Village Potter in the Museum Building. Visitors can climb stairs to go inside this 20-foot vessel and become part of the artwork themselves.
The Domestic Arts and Museum buildings each have one exhibition a year and the Education Gallery changes its exhibitions seasonally. Currently on view inside and outside the Domestic Arts Building through September 1, 2025, is Slow Motion , guest curated by Patricia Eunji Kim for Monument Lab. Clifford Ward: I’ll Make Me a World will be on view in the Museum Building from May 18, 2025, through January 11, 2026.
Another popular draw are the peacocks. “I think they add to that sense of wonder,” says Gary. “They’re showy animals, and they love all the attention they get.”
Strolling around the gardens for hours may work up an appetite. Along with two cafes for light fare and beverages, its upscale restaurant Rat’s Restaurant offers fine cuisine for both lunch and dinner.
Due to the popularity of Grounds For Sculpture, timed tickets have to be reserved in advance. However, if you’re a member, you can come anytime at no additional cost throughout the year, and also receive discounts in the store as well as discounts at the café and restaurants. Members also get invited to special events. “We’re a nonprofit, so membership also supports us,” he says.
There are also a full range of programs offered, including many wellness workshops. Members receive discounts on these courses as well. Private events, such as weddings and birthday parties, can also be held on the property.
To plan your visit, go to https:// www.groundsforsculpture.org/.
Credit: Philip Grausman, Leucantha, 1993
Credit: Roberto Lugo, 'Put Yourself in the Picture, 2022
How One Day Doors & Closets of North Jersey Is Transforming Interiors— In Just One Day
ARTICLE BY BEN MEYER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Walk into any beautifully styled home and you’ll quickly notice the subtle elegance of thoughtful design. While paint color, lighting, and furniture often steal the show, there’s one detail that speaks volumes without saying a word—the interior doors.
According to architect Ann Aznar, “Updated interior doors give your home an instant makeover and personality. Walls define the size of the room. But the doors? They define the style of the rooms. New, up to date interior doors will add a ‘defined style’ and character to your home.”
From frosted glass to knotty pine, sleek modern panels to the ever-popular beveled shaker that mirrors today’s high-end cabinetry, doors are no longer just functional—they’re foundational. And for homeowners in North Jersey, One Day Doors & Closets is making it easier than ever to transform their homes from standard to standout—in just a single day.
A STYLE MAKEOVER THAT’S FAST, CLEAN, AND HASSLE-FREE
The beauty of One Day Doors & Closets lies not only in the exquisite styles they offer, but also in the revolutionary process they’ve perfected. Their proprietary 3D Measuring Technology ensures every door is a precision fit, customized exactly for your home—without messy construction or lengthy disruptions.
“People are amazed when they hear we can replace all the interior doors in their home in less than a day,” says Frank Segovia, a local project manager. “It’s not magic. It’s meticulous planning and factory prep work that allows us to deliver showroom-quality results in record time.” The doors are painted at the factory with a baked-on paint finish, smooth to the touch. Frank added, “We just remove your old doors from the hinges and install your new doors. We can reuse your hardware or install new handles and hinges…most people install new hardware with their new doors.”
Unlike traditional renovations that can drag on for weeks, with contractors tramping through your home and paint fumes lingering in the air, One Day Doors & Closets handles everything behind the scenes—from measurement to fabrication to finishing.
Opposite Top: Before Above: After
“PEOPLE ARE AMAZED WHEN THEY HEAR WE CAN REPLACE ALL THE INTERIOR DOORS IN THEIR HOME IN LESS THAN A DAY.”
When installation day arrives, their professional team installs your doors with whiteglove precision, leaving no mess and no stress behind.
FROM DATED TO DESIGNER
Whether you’re aiming for a minimalist look with flush doors, a farmhouse vibe with barn doors, or a refined aesthetic with mirrored or frosted glass panels, One Day Doors & Closets offers a curated collection of 35 unique designs to choose from to suit any taste. And let’s not forget the finishing touch—hardware as the “bling” of the interior. With luxurious
metallics, like matt black and satin nickel plus modern silhouettes, even the handles make a statement!
“Changing your interior doors is like updating your jewelry,” says Ann Aznar. “It elevates everything around it.” Ann adds, “Old doors date your home. Stunning new door styles, and hardware will elevate the feel of your home.”
AFFORDABLE LUXURY AT YOUR DOORSTEP
Despite the high-end look and flawless results, the company’s streamlined factory-direct process delivers affordable pricing, eliminating middlemen and reducing waste. Customers enjoy wholesale-direct savings, while receiving the kind of bespoke craftsmanship usually reserved for custom builds.
QUALITY PRODUCTS AND SERVICE WITH 5-STAR REVIEWS
“Great people, excellent customer service and top-notch products. They have a great set up that is not invasive and gets the job done very efficiently and the doors look amazing!!! Would recommend them to anyone looking for new doors or closets.” Dominick S.
“My husband and I ordered 18 interior doors from One Day Doors & Closets and were impressed from the time we walked in their door. Every person we have had contact with is respectful, knowledgeable and comfortable to be around. And the doors are gorgeous!” Kristin W.
THE FINAL WORD: STYLE, SPEED, SIMPLICITY
In the world of home upgrades, few transformations offer this much impact with so little inconvenience. With One Day Doors & Closets of North Jersey, your home can go from builder-grade to beautifully curated overnight.
Featured on Extreme Makeover Home Edition, One Day Doors & Closets has won numerous industry awards including ‘The Best Door Installation’ company. So, if you’re looking to refresh your space this summer, without living through a renovation, open the door to effortless luxury—and let the transformation begin, in simply “One Day”!
Interested in upgrading your interior style and enjoy your summer days? Explore onedaydoorsandclosets.com or call 973-281-4577 to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward your home’s stunning new look!
In a pocket of New Jersey, there lies a place called Little Portugal where authentic Portuguese cooking can be found on every street corner…
Chef Lauren Covas—champion of Food Network’s Chopped and Supermarket Stakeout—grew up in Little Portugal, and now she’s sharing her gourmet takes on her hometown’s recipes.
COMING JULY 2025
Learn More and Pre-Order at www.cheflaurencovas.com/littleportugal
LEARN
THE TOOLS FOR BETTER PHYSICAL, MENTAL, AND SPIRITUAL HEALTH
Transcend Your Mind and Improve Your Life
Randy Mackenzie, Transcendental Meditation (TM) center owner, Summit NJ
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS JORDA PHOTOGRAPHY
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TM is the most highly researched technique for personal development in the world.
When Randy Mackenzie graduated from college 50 years ago, he was looking for a way to improve his quality of his life. “That’s when I found Transcendental Meditation® (TM) and I haven’t looked back since,” he says. Today, he’s a certified teacher and co-director of the Transcendental Meditation centers in Summit and Red Bank. He has taught over 5000 people around the world, including 2000 in New Jersey.
The Transcendental Meditation movement originated with its founder, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. “The technique is thousands of years old, and originally it was kept secluded in the Himalayas in India. But then, about 65 years ago, Maharishi was inspired to make TM available to the rest of the world by doing world tours and teaching thousands of people.”
In order to make it available to even more people, he also started training teachers, like Randy. “We learn how to teach the same way that it has always been taught.”
While many think meditation practices are all the similar, that is not true. Randy explains that there are three fundamental categories of meditation. One is concentration, another is contemplation, and the other is effortless self-transcending, which is where TM falls. They all have different brain waves and produce different results. TM has been found to be easier and produces a deeper experience.
TM is uniquely different, he explains, in the sense that it does not give the mind anything to focus on or think about. “TM uses a tool to turn the mind inwards, and because these quieter levels of the mind are more satisfying, it naturally goes in a
direction of doing less and less until there is a possibility of transcending thought. We can go beyond thought and experience what we call pure awareness, pure consciousness. It is a state of being.”
The tool consists of two things: the mantra, which is a specific meaningless sound that turns the mind inwards, and then how to use the mantra correctly so that there is this systematic reduction in mental and physical activity.”
When this happens, the mind becomes more coherent and more orderly, and at the same time, a very deep level of rest occurs that releases not only surface fatigue, but deeper-rooted stresses and strains that we have accumulated over time,” he says.
“So, we’re not meditating for the sake of meditation, but rather that our activity becomes more enjoyable and more productive afterward. Mental clarity improves, and our body gets healthier, cortisol levels go down 30% each time, and the physiology becomes more resilient to stress. And, all of this automatically improves our behavior in personal relationships because we’re not so uptight or tired and are able to be more accepting and tolerant of people. Our whole environment starts to improve as a result.”
Students come from all walks of life, and once the technique is learned, it can be done anywhere. “We recommend that people do it twice a day for 20 minutes each time, but even once a day will have benefits,” he says. “TM is the most highly researched technique for personal development in the world. There are over 400 peer-reviewed studies done on TM.”
As a non-profit organization, Transcendental Meditation centers are committed to making TM available to as many people as possible with lifetime follow up. Fees are income-based, and there are currently scholarships available for free classes. There are also free information
sessions and a money-back satisfaction guarantee. “Our international goal is world peace,” says Randy.
To transcend your thoughts and find your peace, and discover more about Transcendental Meditation, go to TM.org/Centers/Summit
SUMMER AWAKENS WITH A COASTAL ITALIAN BLOOM
AZZURRI: A STUNNING SEASONAL TRANSFORMATION AND EXPANDED OUTDOOR DINING EXPERIENCE ON LONG BEACH ISLAND
ARTICLE BY BEN MEYER PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
With spring’s arrival on Long Beach Island comes a new chapter for Azzurri Italian Cucina—one marked by growth, creativity, and a deeper connection to the coastal community it calls home. Since opening, Azzurri has earned its place as a year-round destination on LBI, seamlessly blending modern Italian cuisine with warm hospitality and thoughtful design.
This summer, in early June, Azzurri introduced its most ambitious seasonal addition yet: Azzurri Gardens. This striking 30x60 coastal-blue tented space extends the restaurant’s footprint into the open air, offering a flexible venue for large parties, private events, and a biweekly-changing, farm-to-table prixfixe menu that highlights the best of New Jersey’s local farms and producers.
“FROM THE MOMENT GUESTS STEP INTO THE ELEGANT OUTDOOR CANOPY, THEY’LL BE WELCOMED INTO AN ELEGANT YET RELAXED ENVIRONMENT DESIGNED FOR CELEBRATION, CONNECTION, AND DISCOVERY.”
“Azzurri Gardens isn’t just extra seating—it’s a curated experience. From the moment guests step into the elegant outdoor canopy, they’ll be welcomed into an elegant yet relaxed environment designed for celebration, connection, and discovery,” says Azzurri partner, Mike Giacopelli. Whether gathering with friends under summer stars or hosting a milestone event with family, the Gardens allow Azzurri to expand both its culinary creativity and its capacity for memorable moments.
Inside, the heart of the restaurant continues to thrive. Executive Chef Anthony Gentilella and Chef de
Cuisine Joaquin Agnes—both veterans of Michelin-level kitchens—bring precision and passion to every plate. Their Spring Menu is a reflection of the season’s energy, featuring fresh pasta, seasonal vegetables, and elevated coastal flavors. But more than ingredients, it’s the philosophy behind the menu that shines: hospitality rooted in tradition, technique, and innovation.
While the dishes evolve, the atmosphere remains grounded in the same warm elegance that defines Azzurri. The interiors combine modern lines with coastal charm, and the heated and cooled alfresco patio provides
year-round appeal. It’s a space where guests linger—not just for the food, but for the feeling.
Azzurri’s team has worked to build more than just a restaurant—they’ve built a gathering place. It’s where locals celebrate birthdays, where visitors make vacation memories, and where friends reconnect over shared plates and stories. The launch of Azzurri Gardens represents an exciting next step, one that opens the doors to even more seasonal possibilities.
From chef-led wine dinners and intimate tastings to summer soirées under the tent, this expansion allows Azzurri to continue pushing forward while staying true to the sense of place that first brought it to life. It’s a restaurant that reflects the rhythm of the island: energetic in the summer, cozy in the off-season, and always welcoming.
Whether you’re returning for a favorite dish or experiencing the Gardens for the first time, Spring 2025 promises something new at every turn. At Azzurri, hospitality is more than a gesture—it’s a craft. And this season, that craft is blooming.
For reservations, menus, and private event inquiries visit www.azzurrilbi.com , on Instagram: @azzurrilbi or reach out via email at info@azzurrilbi.com
