JONAS K. SEIGEL Partner
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits.
This issue is always one of my favorites. I suppose it’s because of the immense joy that children bring to our families and the significant impact they make on our communities.
Children are not merely the hope for a brighter tomorrow, they are the foundation upon which our society stands. Their innocence, curiosity, and boundless potential have the power to shape the world in ways we can only imagine. Kids represent our hardest work and greatest investment and we are happy to highlight the best for our community’s kids in this issue.
Secondarily, who could forget pets? The special kind of companionship can be a transformative experience for children and adults alike. Pets provide us with unconditional love, the opportunity to learn, grow and develop essential life skills in a nurturing environment. And who could ignore the bond between kids and their furry or feathery friends? The bond is often deep and meaningful, fostering qualities like empathy, responsibility, and companionship.
Although children are of infinitely more value, what children and pets share in common is that they both need us. Our care, attention and intentions all shape how they are raised and who they become. We hope this issue inspires you to pour a little extra into the children and pets in your life this month.
We jam packed this issue full of stories you are absolutely going to love! Let’s start with the announcement of the winners of our Wayne Lifestyle “Picture This 2023” student photo contest. Not only do we get to show you the 6 fantastic winning photos, but we also urge you to make sure you read the article for some VERY exciting info on seeing more photos in upcoming issues. We also added another couple of pages of student photos exclusively of their pets. After all, it is the Kids & Pets issue.
Keep reading through for some great advice on taking care of your dog properly in the hot summer months. We also take you for a journey to Escape Garden State, Fairfield’s very own NJ-themed escape rooms.
We all want a great future for our children. If you really want to help them establish a career (and maybe even guide them a bit along the way), then I suggest you turn to page 14.
Remember- these kids are everything we could be and more. Everything good…and then some. Let’s be the inspiration they deserve. Cheers!
PHILLIP BARONE, PUBLISHER @WAYNELIFESTYLEMAGAugust 2023
PUBLISHER
Phillip Barone | phillip.barone@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Don Seaman | don.seaman@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Lindsay Bernero | lindsay1833@yahoo.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Steve Wagner, Alessandra Guarneri, Don Seaman, Phillip Barone
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Steven Wagner, Kristina Vepryk, Elisabeth Lara, Sofia Peterson, Olivia Galambos, Kayla DiToro, Ibrahim Makhoul, Madison Paretti, Faryah Schwarz, Alyssa Colucci, Alex Whittemore, Karolina Burzynska, Karol Salazar, Alyson Losito, Nancy Peplinsky, Phillip Barone
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein
CONTROLLER Gary Johnson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Collins
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
Proverbs 3:5-6
How to get the sofa, sectional, loveseat or chair that fits you and your room perfectly:
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A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.
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The Wayne YMCA brings you the hottest part of their Summer Concert Series lineup with the NYC3 concert. Starring three of New York City’s hottest male vocalists, this high-energy concert event delivers phenomenal performances of today’s top hits from artists like Ed Sheeran, Bruno Mars, Maroon 5, Shawn Mendes, Niall Horan and more. Saturday, August 12 @7 pm. Order your tickets NOW at www.metroymcas.org/ rosen-performing-arts-center/ summer-concert-series
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ARTICLE BY DON SEAMAN
Every parent wants what’s best for their children. They’ll often sacrifice, save, go without, and sometimes back-burner their dreams to help their children realize their own.
What if those dreams could be tied to the same star?
The reality is that many of us are still searching for our own dreams. One solution might just be investing in a business that will give your family a future beyond your own.
“Launching a business with the idea of handing it off to your children is one of the most enduring things you can do for your family’s legacy,” says Robin Wilson.
Robin has seen the impact of family business through her husband Kevin Doyle’s own business, Strategic Franchise Consultants.
According to Kevin, getting started in a new business can start simply, without a huge investment in overhead such as a storefront or a mile-long supply chain.
“Businesses can easily be started out of your own home,” Kevin explains. “There are things that can be set up that you might not think about, like investing in a vending machine franchise. Once you get it up and running, it’s relatively low maintenance.”
Going into business with the end goal of handing it off to your heirs isn’t quite the same as naming your plumbing business “John Smith and Sons Plumbing”, with the expectation that your kid will someday follow in your footsteps. It’s not about a skilled trade.
Maybe it’s about a passion, like starting a baseball camp because of a shared love of the game. Maybe it’s because you’ve said to yourself dozens of times, “Hey, you know what this town needs…?” Or maybe it’s just that you recognize that building a future for — and with — your children is a life experience that can do more than just put tonight’s dinner on the table.
A common complaint about some Millennials and Gen-Z is that they have great ideas but little knowledge about running a business. Some will even hire what amounts to “professional mentors” to help them manage the business end of their inspirations. If that works for those young entrepreneurs, it’s a perfect place to start for a parent.
An easy place to start is with your own knowledge base. Teachers can start their own tutoring companies. IT pros can leverage their skills in the growing AI world and cybersecurity. But what do you do if you’re not so specialized?
HERE ARE A FEW IDEAS TO GET YOU THINKING:
• Moving consultants and hauling services . We’ve all moved a few times. This life-changing process can be overwhelming for those who’ve never been through it. And who doesn’t need a good junk hauler at some point?
• Pet boarding and day care . Have a love for animals? Get involved with man’s best friend.
• Wellness sells . This hot market has growing opportunities as we take better care of our bodies and extend our age with more grace. Therapeutic care and skincare products are just the beginning of the health and beauty spectrum.
• Child and senior care. There are needs at both ends of the human life cycle.
• Renewable energy and sustainability. Electric cars need
care, too. Home improvements that help the environment like composting and recycling services are in high demand.
• Food trucks . Whether you join an existing company or leverage your own kitchen secrets, these mobile culinary services are everywhere. Healthy organics, hearty comfort foods, and even classic ice cream are always good to roll up with.
• Collectables, sports, and entertainment . If you have an appetite for pop culture, there are hundreds of niche industries to find others who share your passion.
Launching a new business isn’t a casual decision. It involves research, startup costs, a solid business plan, and a myriad of other considerations. Digging in with professionals like Kevin to get you started finding your path or even a mortgage consultant like Earl Schick to help manage your financing plan can give you an advantage.
We spend a large part of our adult lives teaching our children about responsibility, accountability, resourcefulness, and so many more life skills that translate directly into the business world. Creating a business with them in mind does so much more than putting your money where your mouth is. It’s really putting your money where your heart is.
To get in touch with Kevin about what franchise opportunities might be right for you, he can be reached at 973-303-6112, or see his website, sfcnj.com.
973-872-1616
Changing jobs? Consider these 401(k) options:
Changing jobs? Considering these 401(k) options:
• Leave the money in your previous employer’s plan
• Move it to your new employer’s plan
• Leave the money in your previous employer’s plan
Changing jobs? Consider these 401(k) options:
Changing jobs? Consider these 401(k) options:
• Roll it over to an Individual Retirement Account (IRA)
• Move it to your new employer’s plan
• Leave the money in your previous employer’s plan
• Cash out the account subject to early withdrawal penalties
• Move it to your new employer’s plan
• Roll it over to an Individual Retirement Account (IRA)
• Leave the money in your previous employer’s plan
• Roll it over to an Individual Retirement Account (IRA)
Consider these 401(k) options: money in your previous employer’s plan your new employer’s plan an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) account subject to early withdrawal penalties through your financial goals and find the option that
• Move it to your new employer’s plan
• Cash out the account subject to early withdrawal penalties
We can talk through your financial goals and find the option that works best for you.
Conan F Ward Financial Advisor• Cash out the account subject to early withdrawal penalties
• Roll it over to an Individual Retirement Account (IRA)
We can talk through your financial goals and find the option that works best for you.
We can talk through your financial goals and find the option that works best for you.
• Cash out the account subject to early withdrawal penalties
Conan F Ward Financial Advisor
500 Valley Road Suite 108 Wayne, NJ 07470 973-872-1616
We can talk through your financial goals and find the option
Conan F Ward Financial Advisor
500 Valley Road Suite 108 Wayne, NJ 07470 973-872-1616
500 Valley Road Suite 108 Wayne, NJ 07470 973-872-1616 IRT-1948K-A
works best for you.
Conan
500 Valley Road Suite 108 Wayne, NJ 07470
“Launching a business with the idea of handing it off to your children is one of the most enduring things you can do for your family’s legacy.”
When the weather is beautiful, there’s always a temptation to just fling the doors open and let your dogs frolic freely for hours in the yard. But like all of us humans, summertime vibes come with hidden health hazards for our furry family members. We spoke to Alexandra Ciampa, the legendary dog and cat groomer from Beautified Breeds. She gave us some advice about summer care for your dog.
RESIST THE URGE TO SHAVE THEM (ESPECIALLY DOUBLE-COATED DOGS LIKE LABS, GOLDEN RETRIEVERS, GERMAN SHEPHERDS, ETC.).
A dog’s hair is their natural SPF protection against the sun and heat. It’s their insulation. Clipping hair too short exposes them to the sun’s harmful rays. Crew cuts don’t help dogs.
AIR TEMPERATURE OF 77⁰ = 125⁰ PAVEMENT.
Before walking your dog, put your hand on the road for 10 seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. For reference, an egg can fry in five seconds at 131⁰.
MOISTURIZE THEIR PADS.
Dry pads on their paws are less resistant to heat. Keep them well moisturized during summer months with dog-specific paw products (not ones made for humans). In a pinch, coconut oil works, just rub it in thoroughly so your dog doesn’t think you’re just basting him with a treat.
ALWAYS CHECK FOR TICKS.
After a long walk — or especially after a hike through the woods — check them for ticks by running your hand along their entire body to check for any bumps. Don’t forget between their toes and groin. Ticks like to hide in dark places. A good quality tick brush is great for this also.
FROZEN TREATS FOR PUPS, TOO.
Freeze pumpkin puree, yogurt, or peanut butter in hollow dog toys or silicon molds. Don’t skip them when handing out watermelon, either.
Mostly, caring for dogs just takes a big bucket of common sense. Keep them hydrated, don’t let them burn, watch them when they swim. Reapply parenting rules frequently.
Beautified Breeds (beautifiedbreeds.com) is in Pompton Plains.
ARTICLE BY DON SEAMAN
On behalf of the entire Wayne Lifestyle family, we are thankful to all parents, teachers, staff and most importantly, students that helped make Picture This 2023, our first student photo contest, a success.
We received nearly 200 qualifying student submissions and, as you would expect, the level of photography the students submitted was exceptionally high and nearly all entries were worthy of the title “winner”. That left us with the daunting task of judging these photos to find the three winners in each of the two predetermined categories: straight photography and digitally manipulated photography.
The Wayne Lifestyle Picture This 2023 winners in the straight photography category are: “Millions” by Kristina Vepryk, “Love Me Tender” by Elisabeth Lara, and “The Battle Of Wayne” by Sofia Peterson. The winners in the digitally manipulated photography category are: “Through The Snow Flakes” by Olivia Galambos, “Life Comes In Waves” by Kayla DiToro, and “Icey Leaf” by Ibrahim Makhoul.
Congratulations to all six of you! Your winning photos are featured here for all our communities to see. One photographer,
Kristina Vepryk, has received the honor of her photo on this month’s cover!
On Wednesday, August 9, from 6-8 pm we are hosting the Picture This 2023 celebration at the Wayne YMCA (1 Pike Drive, Wayne). This is for all students who entered the contest as well as their teachers, family, friends and classmates. All entries will be on digital display for the event and the winning photos on physical display for another month. Take pride in what you have all accomplished.
On top of that, we are excited to tell every one of the wonderful photographers who entered the contest, as well as our 69,000 + monthly readership that the joy of this contest is not over.
Starting in our September issue and running through the August 2024 issue, we will be including 1-2 additional student photos on each of 2 specialty pages, courtesy of contest sponsors Everclear Pools & Spas and Jonathan Zuniga, Mass Mutual NJ-NYC. Both are strong believers in inspiring children and are proud to support this contest.
Make sure you ALL check back every month to see which student photos will be highlighted in each issue.
Congratulations again to all!
ARTICLE BY PHILLIP BARONE, STEVE WAGNER PHOTOGRAPHYBY
LOCAL STUDENTS OF OUR COMMUNITY
Steve Wagner, owner of Wagner Photo-Grafx and one of our Wayne Lifestyle photographers, shared his words of wisdom directed to our youth:
"Photography is an incredible medium that holds great importance for a young audience. It enables you to capture the world around you, freezing moments in time that might otherwise be forgotten. Photography empowers you to express your creativity, share unique perspectives, and tell compelling stories. It allows you to document experiences, explore different cultures, and understand diverse perspectives. As a seasoned professional corporate photographer, I have seen how photography enhances observation skills, fosters self-expression, and even opens doors to exciting career opportunities. Embrace the art of photography, and you'll discover a remarkable tool that will enrich your life and inspire others."
Well said, Steve.
We can’t wait to see what beauty the students capture through the camera’s lens in the future.
Embrace the art of photography, and you'll discover a remarkable tool that will enrich your life and inspire others.
A STUDENT PHOTO CONTEST BONUS!
A few of our student photo contest submissions were so on-theme for the "Pets" part of our "Kids & Pets" issue that they deserved their own special feature. Here are some of our favorites.
"Gentle Giant", Faryah Schwarz, Wayne Hills High School
"Furry Best Friend", Alyson Losito, Wayne Hills High School
"Tricks for Treats", Karolina Burzynska, Wayne Hills High School
"I See", Alyssa Colucci, Wayne Hills High School
"Breath of Fresh Air", Olivia Galambos, Wayne Hills High School
our rooms completely from scratch rather than using a franchise or buying the themes and puzzles from a third party,” Hale notes.
Hale and his father, John, designed everything from the themes to each room’s various puzzles all on their own. John even completed most of the construction inside of the building and in the rooms with a little help from other family members.
With thousands of visitors a year, Hale’s business continues to grow exponentially and welcomes competitors from all over the state due to its high challenge level.
Adventure awaits in your own backyard! The opportunity to experience a safe, yet thrilling, escapade in just one building has never been easier.
Whether you’re racing against the clock in their boardwalk themed space (known as “Boardwalk Blast”) or navigating your way through their Sopranos-themed “Mafia Blackout,” Escape Garden State is unlike any other escape room you’ve ever been to - especially in New Jersey.
Owner Matt Hale took an intense interest in navigating his way through puzzles and complex video games at a very early age. His passion only continued to grow as time went on. It eventually led him to work for his family friend’s escape room for a few years before beginning construction and opening up the wildly popular Escape Garden State in 2016.
Unlike countless other escape rooms, Escape Garden State is the only space in the country that features four specifically hand-crafted rooms which are all New Jersey themed. “We're kind of unique in the fact that we built all of
“We want to make it challenging enough that not everyone gets through, but most groups do get within five to 10 minutes of finishing,” Hale explains.
“The most rewarding part about doing this is seeing people genuinely enjoy themselves while they work through the room. We [owners and gamemasters] watch and listen to each group and love seeing the different reactions. It gets more exciting as participants get closer to solving.”
As competitors navigate their way through each escape room, they are simultaneously monitored by a gamemaster who provides clues as frequently as requested. With tons of thrills and surprises in store, it’s never obvious as to what might come next and every step towards a successful exit is undeniably a challenge. Participants must pay close attention to every detail and remain focused in order to escape any of Hale’s unique rooms. There is certainly no shortage of tricks and shocking realizations from start to finish.
Other than simply having fun, Escape Garden State is also a perfect opportunity to work with a team, significant other, or your family on
communication, decision-making, and problem-solving skills together.
“We’re one of the best suited escape rooms in the area for team building,” Hale explains. “Our facility is fairly large in comparison to most other escape rooms. We have four rooms and can fit 8 people in each one, so we can accommodate 32 people in our space at a time.”
Some of us on the Wayne Lifestyle team took on the challenge of “Power Surge” and managed to somehow make it out with only a minute and twenty seconds left.
Although Escape Garden State is family friendly, each of their rooms are different and some are easier than others. “Boardwalk Blast is the most kid-friendly in terms of ages, but Power Surge is also very kid-friendly,” Hale explains. And for fans of “The Sopranos,” “Mafia Blackout” is definitely the way to go.
It’s time to gather your most strategic friends, co-workers, and family members to race against time and escape one of Escape Garden State’s creatively designed rooms for an unforgettable experience this summer. If you book with the code “waynelifestyle” you will receive 15% off as well.
Escape Garden State is located at 1275 Bloomfield Ave, Unit 49, Building 7, Fairfield. To book your experience, visit: escapegardenstate.com. Tag us on Instagram with photos of your best times!
Some Challenges Have You Start With Your Group Split Up
Keys, Puzzles & Problem Solving Will Open Locked Boxes, Secret Recordings and Hidden Doors!
If your family is anything like mine, when Totino’s pizza rolls are made, there rarely are any left. Almost everyone loves them. That lends itself to a few problems though: they’re frozen, processed food with lots of preservatives that you might not want - and there might not be enough of them. Here is a great recipe that allows you to make them tastier, healthier and rather inexpensively...that’s a win for everyone. Well, I guess everyone but Totino’s.
INGREDIENTS:
• Egg roll wrappers
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (chopped to at least half the size you get in a pre-shredded bag)
• Pepperoni (chopped into small pieces) or ground sausage
• Your favorite pizza sauce (homemade, bought from a pizzeria or even canned-if canned, I suggest Cento)
• Small bowl of water
01. Cut each egg roll wrapper into 4 even squares
02. Mix cheese, pepperoni/sausage & sauce together
03. Add a spoonful of mixture to the right side of the center (I typically leave about ½ inch of space from the filling to the top and to the bottom so we can properly seal it)
04. Wet all the edges of the wrapper with water (using a brush or your finger)
05. Fold the dough side with no filling over the top of the side with filling, press to seal it
06. Fold up the bottom, fold down the top and press both to seal them
07. Re-wet the top and bottom and refold and seal them (this helps prevent the dreaded burst which leaks out all the filling)
08. In a preheated deep fryer or pan of oil (1”2” of oil brought to 350 degrees), place 4-6 pizza rolls at a time. Fry until they are golden in color (should take less than 2 minutes)
09. Remove the batch and drain them on paper towels
10. Serve these as is or along with a side of warm pizza sauce for dipping
ARTICLE BY PHILLIP BARONE
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