New Jersey Family magazine: April / May 2023

Creative Birthday

Party Ideas

THE FOOD ISSUE

CHRIS SIVERSEN

ON LIFE AS A CHEF & DAD

CELEB CHEF DAVID BURKE ON HIS NJ ROOTS

BEST NJ LAWYERS FOR FAMILIES

chef Chris Siversen

JASON E. LOWENSTEIN, MD Spine Surgeon

Dr. Lowenstein did a scoliosis surgery on my daughter. Could not be more impressed with his professionalism and knowledge.

—J.M.,

ANNMARIE MURPHY OTD, OTR/L Occupational Therapist Rockaway

AnnMarie has really connected with my daughter and truly understands what makes her tick. AnnMarie’s playfulness, kindness and understanding make each session a joy to attend!

—H.L.,

Dr. Immerman is the consummate professional and also has a wonderful, kind, lighthearted demeanor with children. She performed surgery on my son and it was seamless. The surgery solved all of his ENT issues. Dr. Immerman was also very responsive to any questions we had post-surgery.

—D.C., SUMMIT

City Springfield, Wayne

Dr. Friedman performed both ACL reconstruction surgeries for my son. He is so upset that he is aging out of the pediatric practice and wants her to always be his orthopedic doctor.

—S.M.,

Dr. Collins is an amazing neurosurgeon. He has incredible bedside manner, he’s thorough, patient and kind. I felt so confident in his expertise and have no doubt in my mind my son was in the best care possible.

—A.D.,

SEAN A. FLYNN, MD Pediatrician Bloomfield

Dr. Flynn is a very caring and wonderful doctor who treats patients very well. He explains everything clearly to the parents and makes the children feel comfortable. My 12-year-old grandson finds him easy to talk to and he readily answers all questions that he presents to him.

—B.W.,

See

SAMARA FRIEDMAN, MD Orthopedic Surgeon Cedar Knolls, Jersey

COLUMBIA

Bridgewater, Morristown, Rockaway

CLARK

JOHN J. COLLINS, MD Pediatric Neurosurgeon Hackensack, Hazlet Morristown, Rockaway

LIVINGSTON

ROCKAWAY

NEWARK

SARA B. IMMERMAN, MD Otolaryngologist | Morristown

Has your child seen an amazing specialist? Spread the word and let other parents know!

PUBLISHER | CINDY MIRONOVICH

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR | DINA EL NABLI

EDITOR@NJFAMILY.COM

ART DIRECTOR | LEEZA HERNANDEZ

SENIOR EDITOR | RONNIE KOENIG

ASSISTANT DIGITAL EDITOR

JENNIFER AMATO

CONTRIBUTORS

HEIDI L. BORST

JACQUELINE LARCARA

JENNIFER LESSER

NAYDA RONDON

ARRICCA ELIN SANSONE

PRODUCTION DESIGNER

ROSA M. JOSEPH

PRODUCTION & BUSINESS MANAGER

ERICA BARTON

PROJECT & CIRCULATION MANAGER

DIANE ERDENBERGER

DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING

MARCY HOLETON

ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES

ANN CUSACK

CATHY GROTE

DEBBIE LUBRANSKI

BARBARA NASTRO

PAMELA PETERSON

New Jersey Eats

The acceptance of advertising by New Jersey Family does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information being advertised. We do not knowingly present any products or services that are fraudulent or misleading in nature. Editorial inquiries, calendar information, advertising rates and schedules, and subscription requests may be addressed to Kids Monthly Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 669, New Providence, NJ 07974-0669. New Jersey Family can be reached by calling 908-9751800, emailing editor@njfamily.com, or by visiting our website, njfamily.com. New Jersey Family is a woman-owned business and has been recognized for editorial and design excellence by the Parenting Media Association.

One of the perks of being a foodie in New Jersey has always been how easy it is to get into New York City or Philly. But with much love and respect for our iconic neighboring cities, we’re here to remind you there’s never been a better time to eat in NJ. From locally grown produce and fresh seafood to iconic staples like Taylor ham to high-end restaurants that rival top-tier establishments all over the world, there are endless reasons to love dining out in the Garden State.

NJ’s own celeb Chef David Burke has restaurants from NYC to Saudi Arabia and is proudly investing here. In this issue, we ask him about his NJ restaurants (there are eight of them plus a bakery) and the signature dishes that make them so special. We’re excited to have Chris Siversen, executive chef and co-owner of Maritime Parc in Jersey City and The Feathered Fox in Livingston, on our cover. In this issue, he talks about juggling life as a chef with parenting two busy teenagers.

On pages 19 and 29, we share some of NJ’s most iconic foods and foodie towns. Because we want you to try some of our favorite restaurants, we’re giving away five dinners to readers every day for a week starting on April 24. Follow us on Instagram @newjerseyfamily and enter daily for a chance to win a delicious night out!

New Jersey Family is published by Kids Monthly Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 669, New Providence, NJ 07974-0669. Send address changes to us here. Reproduction of New Jersey Family in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. All rights reserved. Copyright 2023 by Kids Monthly Publications, Inc. Circulation audit by CVC, Circulation Verification Council.

We’re also excited to share our 7th annual list of Best New Jersey Lawyers for Families. Compiling this list of exceptional attorneys is no small feat—it’s made up of lawyers nominated by our readers for providing exceptional counsel during stressful situations and big life changes. Beyond family law, our list highlights attorneys who’ve been praised for their work with special needs advocacy, estate planning and more. Head to page 33 to see the list or go to njfamily.com/thelist to share it online. Don’t see an attorney you’ve loved working with? Go to njfamily.com/lawyers to nominate them!

/NEWJERSEYFAMILY

ERIN SALMAN, ANDREA THORNE @NJFAMILYMAG

(Above) Chris Siversen’s Barnegat Sea Scallops is one of the most popular seafood offerings at The Feathered Fox in Livingston. (Inset) The famous David Burke Dry-Aged Cheeseburger is served at many of his restaurants throughout NJ.

We

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Surviving Spring Allergy Season

Here’s how to treat those annoying symptoms

We’re all excited for the warmer, sunnier days of spring. But what don’t we look forward to? Pollen season. Anyone who has a kid with allergies knows it’s miserable for your child—and not so much fun for you, either.

Classic symptoms of allergies in kids are a runny or stuffy nose, and your child may also sneeze or have an itchy nose, eyes and ears. Generally, kids with allergies won’t feel too sick or unable to take part in regular activities.

But if there’s a fever or your child feels achy or mopey and out of it, call your pediatrician. Flu, COVID and RSV have all been circulating this winter and may continue into spring. Here’s how to help your kid with allergies feel better fast:

START MEDICATIONS EARLY

If your kids have a history of symptoms at the same time each year, get them started on medications sooner, rather than waiting until they don’t feel well. Medications work better if your child begins them before tree pollen—the biggest offender in spring—is in the air. Start in early spring, which means not waiting until you see that film of yellow pollen everywhere.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT MEDS

By Arricca Elin SanSone

For drippiness, try non-sedating antihistamines such as kids’ versions of Claritin, Zyrtec or Allegra. For stuffiness, nasal corticosteroids, such as Flonase, can help, though they take a couple of weeks to kick in and must be used daily, says Catherine Monteleone, MD, allergist and professor of medicine at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. If your child isn’t responding to over-thecounter drugs after two weeks, talk to your pediatrician.

KEEP POLLEN IN ITS PLACE

We know you’re ready for fresh air, but keep windows closed to prevent pollen from floating indoors, Monteleone says. Make sure everyone takes off their shoes so pollen isn’t tracked inside. Kids should shower after outdoor play to prevent allergens from transferring to pillowcases and bedding, where they will breathe them in all night. Wash sheets, blankets and stuffed animals once a week in hot water. Encase mattresses, pillows and box springs in allergenproof covers, and replace pillows every two years, says the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Finally, your kids probably love to tussle with or hug the family pet, so brush pets or wipe them down daily with a damp cloth to remove the microscopic pollen that sticks to their fur.

Gallery of little SmileS

Specialized Dental Care For Children and

“My kids love going to Dr. Lam. He makes their dental experience fun and not stressful. He’s professional and his office staff and assistants are always friendly and kind.” - M.P.

W. Lam, DDS, MS, FRCD(C) Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry Jeannette G. Glass, DMD, MS Cosmetic Dentistry

Dennis

How to Support Your Kids’ Mental Health

It’s no secret that the last few years have been tough. Many kids are in crisis, struggling with feelings of hopelessness and anxiety and some even have suicidal thoughts. Social isolation and academic disruption during COVID didn’t help.

According to the CDC, mental health struggles had already increased by 40 percent among kids from the 10 years prior to the pandemic. Some kids lost loved ones while others had parents who lost jobs so they had to move to a different home or transfer to a new school. Negative messages from social media (bullying and unrealistic standards for appearances) may also be contributing. Earlier this year, NJ high school student Adriana Kuch took her own life just days after a video of her being beaten by fellow students circulated online. Parents are calling for change and desperately want to help make sure their kids are safe, physically and emotionally.

The most important thing you can do as a parent is watch for signs that your child may need mental health support. Red flags may include slipping grades, changes in eating habits, sleep issues, refusing to do things they once enjoyed, unwillingness to talk,

isolating or frequent emotional outbursts. Some kids might complain of headaches or stomachaches.

Despite the huge demand on mental health professionals (and wait times to be seen can be lengthy) there are many resources for getting help. Here’s where to look:

SCHOOL COUNSELOR

Only about half of public schools offer mental health assessments or treatment services, but it’s a good place to start for guidance. Some schools offer access to providers via telehealth sessions. Ask about the school counselor, who may be able to meet with your child.

PEDIATRICIAN

Your child’s doctor has a unique perspective because of the long-term relationship with you and your kid. Look to your pediatrician for insight into resources in your community.

WORKPLACE

If you work for a big company, speak to your HR department; some workplaces offer employee assistance programs (EAP) that may include counseling. Programs are typically

By Arricca Elin SanSone

provided at no cost by EAP vendors.

TELEHEALTH SERVICES

Telehealth, where you can meet with a provider via video, is more readily available, and reduces the need for commuting or taking time off. Call your insurance company to see if you’re eligible for these services.

MENTAL HEALTH CENTERS

Mental health centers and behavioral health hospitals (check out the National Alliance on Mental Illness at nami.org) may have openings, or you can be put on a waitlist.

HOSPITAL CLINICS

If you have Medicaid or an Affordable Care Act plan, a hospital clinic that takes all types of insurance might see you. (Providers in private practice may not be included with these plans.)

EMERGENCY ROOM

If your child is in urgent need and you’re concerned about their safety or the safety of others, go to the ER for access to mental health treatment, including hospitalization, residential care or day programs.

Here’s where to get help for the whole family

Celebrating Life’s Most Important Moments

There’s a good chance you have hundreds, if not thousands of photos on your phone made up of all your favorite moments. To better memorialize some of the most important moments, families turn to a trusted photographer. Hartshorn Portraiture was created by photographer Mac Hartshorn and his wife Jennifer, and is focused on creating personal photographic portraits of families, infants, children, and expectant parents.

Mac Hartshorn worked in the industry as an established fashion photographer for more than 15 years before opening Hartshorn Portraiture in Hoboken in 2002. He and his wife Jennifer built the studio with their three passions in mind—quality, customer service, and a deep appreciation for memorializing important moments.

Their Hoboken studio is a unique space where fine-art photography meets a family-friendly atmosphere, resulting in a luxurious photographic experience, no matter the type. From the moment you meet Mac and his team to when you finally unwrap your custom-designed pieces of art, customer service is an underlying quality that’s never lost.

Capturing Your Kid’s Precious Milestones

Mac and Jennifer have two daughters of their own, so they understand

first-hand the fleeting moments of childhood and the power of capturing a cherished moment. “Our business is all about families, because family is our driving force,” Jennifer says. “Hartshorn Portraiture was born out of the desire to keep our family close and connected while pursuing our passions. We like to think of ourselves as ‘family-preneurs’,” she continued.

Pregnancy + Newborn packages are available so that you can capture the moments most important to you. Portrait sessions in the Hoboken studio are the best choice for families with children under the age of two while portraits are also available at unique park settings and stunning beach sessions are also available at the Jersey Shore.

To round out the process and keep everything in-house, Hartshorn Portraiture also offers state-of-the-art editing, printing, and conducts every aspect of production from color approval to hand cutting to museumquality framing. These heirlooms are signed by the photographer and are exceptional artworks that will grace your walls for a lifetime.

HE’S THE CHEF

Executive chef and father Chris Siversen talks food, entrepreneurship and parenting in NJ

He’s cooked for three presidents and Martha Stewart. He’s executive chef and co-owner of Maritime Parc, a restaurant and private event space on the Jersey City waterfront with iconic views of the Manhattan skyline, making it a hot spot for weddings with events booked into 2025. Chris Siversen’s other restaurant, The Feathered Fox in Livingston, is a modern take on a steakhouse with the addition of sushi, blocks of garlic bread and decadent potato rings. Both restaurants have attracted everyone from the former band One Direction to members of the New York Giants.

Siversen has been everything from a busboy and waiter to a short order cook. His stint as a cook at a catering hall for politicians in Albany inspired him to go to culinary school in the early ‘90s and he never looked back.

What’s keeping Siversen especially busy these days are his kids’ schedules. His daughter Devyn, a junior at Ridgewood High School who plays lacrosse, guitar and hopes to study engineering in college, is visiting campuses with her dad as she decides where to commit as a college athlete. His son Ryan is a freshman who is a member of the

By Dina El Nabli

Ridgewood High School band, plays tennis and loves to cook and play video games.

Siversen co-parents his teens with his ex-wife, who lives in Ridgewood. The kids split their time between Ridgewood and Upper Saddle River, where Siversen lives with his partner Jette Starniri and her daughter Silje. Starniri is vice president of operations for Maritime Parc, The Feathered Fox and Royal Hunt Catering, which caters the events at The Westminster Hotel. Her side hustle, Dirt Pretty, handles event design and floral arrangements. The couple’s love of design helped inspire the look of The Feathered Fox, rich with custom fixtures and furniture paired with modern jeweled tones. We sat down with Siversen and his kids to talk food, restaurants, the parenting juggle and what they like to do for fun in NJ.

NJF: Growing up, was food a big deal in your family?

Chris Siversen: My roots are Scandinavian and European. My Italian side was the biggest influence. My Italian grandmother would come over every weekend and start the gravy in the morning, browning

the meatballs and sausage and that’s what you woke up to. Then, it was such an incredible day because you couldn’t wait for dinner to be ready. We would have our salad course and antipast0. You’d go into your pasta course with meatballs and really great gravy with Italian bread. Then we would all sit around at the table and crack nuts and have some fruit and dessert. The experience of cooking and coming together was ingrained in me, that you really do appreciate food and what food brings to the table.

NJF: You were a chef in NYC for a while before you bought Maritime Parc. How did that come about?

CS: I had been working for 10 years for a big restaurant company that had multiple restaurants and some big prominent catering halls. I learned every facet of what the business is about. I was approaching 40 and thought I need to do this for myself. I started talking to people, letting them know I was interested in branching out on my own. My business partner, Marc Haskell, who’s still my business partner here, said he was interested in leaving the same company. Six months after we started talking, we had a signed lease and Maritime Parc opened in 2010.

NJF: Weddings and special events are a big part of what you do at Maritime. How is that different from owning a restaurant?

CS: Everything was born at once. The philosophy has always been the marketability of a really great restaurant that’s attached to the catering space so people understand that we’re not just doing traditional banquet food, that we’re really doing elevated catering. We host over 400 events a year at Maritime Parc and Royal Hunt Catering at The Westminster Hotel.

NJF: How is the menu at The Feathered Fox different?

CS: Maritime Parc is more seafood driven, primarily because we’re on the water. We have a traditional dish that was on the menu from day one which is my take on surf and turf. It’s sea scallops with braised short ribs and has a traditional sauce gribiche. The Feathered Fox space used to be a steakhouse and was very successful. I really felt we should try to keep the familiarity of it for locals so they know it’s a steakhouse, but shake it up into something more modern and that’s where we added the sushi component.

NJF: What’s it like to balance being an executive chef and restaurant owner with parenting teenagers?

CS: It’s busy. Being in the restaurant business, you’re working nights and weekends. With children, kids are home nights and weekends. My ex-wife and I split the time where they’re with me half the week and with their mom half the week. The weekend is really spent with their mom because I’m not around. I take Sundays off and it’s tough because you’re tired and then there’s kids’ sports and wanting to do something together. I think it’s easier now because the kids are older and have become more independent.

NJF: Are you guys foodies?

Ryan: I’ve taken inspiration from my dad with cooking. I enjoy cooking. I’ve learned to cook steak and homemade pastas.

Devyn: At my mom’s, Ryan would be like, ‘I want to make this.’

He’ll take the initiative to go to the store with my mom, get all the ingredients, and then take her through a meal and cook one together.

CS: Ryan’s got all the breakfast things down. He can make waffles, pancakes and eggs all different ways. He learned to make crêpes, too.

NJF: How did your recent trip to Italy impact your view of food?

Devyn: Because I could legally drink there, I was learning about which wine goes with which food. That made me appreciate it more and gave me a better understanding of what goes with what.

NJF: Where do you love to eat with your kids?

CS: One of my favorite restaurants is Houston’s in Riverside Square in Hackensack. The service is some of the best you can get. Their wine list is good and you can’t go there and not order the spinach dip. We also love Shumi in Ridgewood. It’s hands down the best sushi nearby. Of course I am partial to the sushi at The Feathered Fox.

NJF: What do you guys like to do in New Jersey?

CS: Escape rooms are really high up on the list. We had one that we went to in Englewood where you have to break into a jewelry store. They repurposed a jewelry store that was empty and for sale and they turned it into an escape room. I also recently took Ryan skeet shooting at Thunder Mountain Trap & Skeet in Ringwood.

NJF: What do you think is special about food in NJ?

CS: The freshness of product. You have some of the best sea scallops and seafood coming from off the shore. All of the farmers in the state have really elevated what they’re doing and that brings more awareness about quality of product. I love the iconic food down the shore with funnel cake and hot dogs at the boardwalk.

NJF: You’ve had some pro athletes dine in your restaurants.

CS: We’ve had a lot of New York Giants come in. Tiki Barber and his wife, Traci Lynn Johnson, Plaxico Burress and others. We have also hosted other athletes like Mariano Rivera.

Devyn: Also, haven’t you had One Direction here?

CS: Yes, at Maritime Parc. The fans were told by radio stations they were coming to see the band One Direction perform in NY. What they didn’t know was that there was a special surprise private concert, interview and photo session with the band. All members were hiding in one of our rooms and all of a sudden the band gets brought through and performs for 100 of their biggest fans worldwide.

Devyn: You’ve also cooked for a few presidents.

CS: I cooked for both G.W. and H.W. Bush and for President Clinton. The dinner for President Clinton was a private dinner for only 40 people on the Upper East Side. In 2004, at the Republican National Convention at Madison Square Garden, the company I was with was chosen to cook for the Bush family and the Cheney family in their private suite for all four days. The only people allowed in were me and a waiter. President George Bush Sr. came over to me and said, ‘Why are you in the kitchen? There’s such important stuff going on. Come sit with us.’ There I was sitting on the couch with George H.W. Bush and Barbara Bush. It was the most incredible experience.

OPPOSITE PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM BOTTOM LEFT: DEVYN, SILJE AND RYAN; CHRIS AND JETTE IN ITALY; THE VIEW AT MARITIME PARC; ROASTED CHICKEN WITH BROCCOLI AND MUSHROOM SPOON BREAD AT MARITIME PARC; THE FEATHERED FOX; SIVERSEN’S SIGNATURE MASHED POTATO RINGS SERVED AT BOTH RESTAURANTS.

IZ Events

KOSHER CATERER

IZ Events has been entrenched in the catering and events industry for 30+ years. From Catering events in NYC, the Hamptons, and NJ, our experience runs deep. Creativity is our passion, and we specialize in trend-forward, locally sourcedfood. We offer catering and event services for Weddings, Bar/ Bat Mitzvahs, and social and corporate events. We are honored to be the new in-house caterer at the Marlboro Jewish Center.

103 SCHOOL RD. W., MARLBORO | 732-334-8606

IZEVENTS.COM

Calandra's Italian Village

ONE-STOP SHOP

Calandra's Italian Village is perfect for families, friends, and foodies! From our bakery's hot bread made hourly and homemade gelato to our award-winning restaurant and lounge, market & deli offering homemade sauces, pasta, and imported wines from our vineyards in Italy. Whether it’s live entertainment, a night out, lunch with friends, or bringing homemade into your home; Calandra’s Italian Village is the place to be!

234 BLOOMFIELD AVE., CALDWELL | 973-226-8889

CALANDRAS.COM/THE-VILLAGE

The Shannon Rose

IRISH PUB

LOCAL PUB. IRISH SOUL. The Shannon Rose Irish Pub combines Irish roots with a commitment to our community. Our chef-driven, scratch-made menu incorporates seasonal & local ingredients from our community partners. The interior of the pub is entirely composed of furniture and decorations shipped directly from Ireland. We are dedicated to providing Irish hospitality. Slàinte!

CLIFTON - 973-284-0200 | RAMSEY - 201-962-7602

THESHANNONROSE.COM

Maritime Parc

FINE DINING, WEDDINGS, EVENTS

Within Liberty State Park is a quintessential modern event venue & restaurant with one of the most stunning views in the state. Executive Chef Chris Siversen’s seasonally inspired menus spin local, organic and sustainable ingredients into crowd pleasing dishes & drinks, making it heaven on the Hudson. Per Inside Jersey, Siversen ‘doesn’t rely on spectacular views to provide dining excitement & a culinary adventure.’

84 AUDREY ZAPP DR., LIBERTY STATE PARK, JERSEY CITY | 201-413-0050

MARITIMEPARC.COM

The Feathered Fox

Nestled within Livingston’s Westminster Hotel resides The Feathered Fox and top NJ chef Chris Siversen. Built around an exceptional selection of perfectly charred steak cuts & chops, Siversen marries tradition with innovation through imaginative sides, an exceptional raw bar & superb interpretations of familiar sushi rolls. Named as one of NJ's best steakhouses, The Feathered Fox also boasts the largest sake list statewide.

We can help you access information regarding:

We offer workshops for professionals and parents on a variety of topics related to disabilities, as well as sponsor monthly Parent Support Groups

For a complete list of current workshop offerings, visit http://bcss.bergen.org

When it comes to bagels, pizza and subs, the Garden State certainly has bragging rights. But there are many other unique (and delicious!) eating experiences with NJ ties, too. Consider this your bucket list of must-try foods.

By Jacqueline Larcara

SLOPPY JOE SANDWICH

Town Hall Delicatessen, South Orange townhalldeli.com

This Cuban-inspired sandwich consists of your choice of two meats, Swiss cheese, three slices of rye, dry coleslaw and Russian dressing.

ITALIAN-STYLE HOT DOG

Jimmy Buff’s West Orange, Kenilworth jimmybuffs.com

Onions, peppers, potatoes and a hot dog—that’s what James “Bluff” Racioppi cooked in Newark in 1932.

ITALIAN COMBO SUB

Joe Leone’s, Point Pleasant Beach joeleones.com

This sandwich has it all with hot and sweet soppressata, Genoa salami, Cappy ham, provolone cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, salt and pepper, oregano, oil and vinegar.

THE COMPLETE BREAKFAST SANDWICH

White Rose Diner, Linden whiterosediner.com

At the White Rose, the awardwinning Complete sandwich features Taylor ham, egg, cheese and potatoes on a hard roll.

BAGELS

Teaneck Road Hot Bagels, Teaneck facebook.com/ teaneckroadhotbagels

This spot is known for achieving bagel perfection: a crunchy outside with a fluffy inside, creating an overall chewy texture. Expect to wait in line for hand rolled kosher bagels and coffee to-go.

SHIO RAMEN

Hokkaido Ramen Santouka in Mitsuwa Marketplace, Edgewater mitsuwa.com, santouka.co.jp

The standout at this Japanese supermarket and food court: the Shio Ramen, a comforting dish with pork bone broth and a mild salty flavor. Try the ramen, sushi and mochi, too.

CHICKEN SAVOY

Belmont Tavern, Belleville belmont-tavern.business.site

Since 1967, this has been the home of “Stretch’s World Famous Chicken Savoy”—roasted chicken with garlic, herbs, hard cheese and red wine vinegar.

BUFFALO WINGS

The Chicken or the Egg, Beach Haven and Marlton, 492fowl.com

Affectionately known as Chegg, this spot has an extensive breakfast menu but is best known for its hearty, crunchy chicken wings and 18 sauces.

SUPERFRUIT BOWL

Playa Bowls, 67 NJ locations playabowls.com

NJ’s original superfruit bowl franchise was started by two Shore natives. Try the Pura Vida which has an açaí base topped with granola, blueberries, strawberries and honey.

CARAMEL POPCORN

Johnson’s Popcorn, Ocean City johnsonspopcorn.com

Since 1940, Johnson’s Popcorn has hand mixed kernels with amazing toppings. Popular flavors include peanut crunch and classic butter, but the original caramel is the must-try flavor and top seller here.

SALT WATER TAFFY

Shriver’s, Ocean City shrivers.com

Founded in 1898, Shriver’s is the

oldest business on the Ocean City boardwalk. A trip to the Shore is not complete without a box of these pastel-colored chewy treats.

BLUEBERRIES

Whitesbog Historic Farm & Village Browns Mills, whitesbog.org

Blueberry cultivation started here in 1911. Today, Whitesbog is farmed by the fifth generation of the family. Pick blueberries or try blueberry pie, ice cream and more at their annual Blueberry Summer Fest.

DISCO FRIES

Tops Diner, Harrison thetopsdiner.com

Consistently recognized among the top diners in NJ and the

nation, Tops has served this staple consisting of piled-high mozzarella and brown gravy slathered over a plate of french fries since 1942.

RIPPER

Rutt’s Hut, Clifton ruttshut.com

This dive has been the home of the ripper—a deep-fried hot dog— for nearly 100 years.

NEW ORLEANS-STYLE COFFEE

Rook Coffee, 11 NJ locations rookcoffee.com

This NOLA java chain is now a Jersey thing, having taken over NJ’s coastline. The aroma will get you in the door, but stay for the cold brew.

TRENTON TOMATO PIE

De Lorenzo’s Tomato Pies Robbinsville delorenzostomatopies.com

This spot is one of the first to make this unique creation: thin dough, lots of cheese with sauce on top— basically pizza in reverse.

CRUMB CAKE

Just Crumb Cake, Park Ridge justcrumbcake.com

Boasting a 2-to-1 ratio of streusel to cake, this shop puts a unique spin on the traditional treat with flavors including s’mores, red velvet, funfetti, carrot, rainbow cookie and raspberry.

ICE CREAM

Holsten’s, Bloomfield, holstens.com

Sit at the counter of this ice cream parlor, famous for being in ‘The Sopranos.’ Try the Holsten’s Special (four scoops with two toppings) or 20+ homemade flavors.

SLIDERS

White Manna Hamburgers

Hackensack, whitemanna.com

At this greasy spoon, the mini hamburgers are cooked right in front of you, topped with onions and cheese on a potato bun.

CHICKEN TIKKA MASALA

Shalimar, Iselin

shalimarrestaurants.com

This Pakistani restaurant is just one of dozens of eateries offering Asian cuisine on Oak Tree Road in Iselin and

Edison. Loyal diners love Shalimar’s chicken tikka masala—chicken chunks in a spiced sauce.

KOREAN BARBECUE

Wooga Taste 1080, Fort Lee thewooga.com

Wooga is renowned for its flavorful American Wagyu meats. Try the Wooga Small for Three, which includes Prime coulotte, Prime short rib, hanger steak, rib finger, pork shoulder, pork belly and pork jowl.

PANZAROTTI

Vincent’s, Merchantville vincentspizzanj.com, tarantinipanzarotti.com

Brought to America by Pauline Tarantini in Camden in 1960, the panzarotti is a pocket of dough filled with mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce deep fried to golden brown.

PIZZA

Razza Pizza Artigianale

Jersey City, razzanj.com

The wood-fired artisanal pies here are pizza perfection. Try the Jersey Margherita, made with local ingredients, and their homemade bread and butter.

FAT SANDWICH

RU Hungry?, New Brunswick, Newark ruhungrynj.net

The fat sandwich phenomenon started as a food truck at Rutgers. Try the Fat Darrell, packed with chicken fingers, mozzarella sticks, fries and marinara sauce.

TACOS

tacoshop

Cape May, tacoshoptacos.com

At this taqueria by James Beard Award-nominated chef Lucas Manteca, everything is made from scratch. Try the pork quesabirria tacos, made with slow-braised pork, Oaxacan cheese, raw onions and cilantro in corn tortillas. Be sure to dunk your tacos in the Birria broth, too.

(CLOCKWISE FROM TOP) DELORENZO’S TOMATO PIES PIZZA / PLAYA BOWLS / CHICKEN OR THE EGG / HOLSTEN’S / ROOK COFFEE

DAVID BURKE THE (GARDEN) STATE OF FOOD, ACCORDING TO

Beaches, boardwalks, casinos, beautiful farms, Bon Jovi and Bruce Springsteen are just a few of the many things we can brag about in New Jersey. Exquisite locally-sourced cuisine is another and when it comes to fine dining, Hazlet native David Burke is the Garden State’s very own rock star chef.

Anyone who loves to go out for a great meal knows Burke for his upscale and casual restaurants throughout the state. With his recent addition of The Fox & Falcon by David Burke in South Orange, Burke now has eight restaurants in NJ along with his flagship David Burke Tavern on the Upper East Side of New York City and others in NY, Charlotte, NC, Richmond, RI and overseas in Saudi Arabia. Closer to home, he recently took over the historic Dixie Lee Bakery in Keansburg.

After working a variety of jobs in the food industry in his teens, Burke went on to study at the Culinary Institute of America. At 26, his career took off when he was named executive chef of NYC’s legendary The River Café. Burke has been a TV staple over the years on Bravo’s “Top Chef Masters,” during which he famously jumped out of a plane on-air. He’s appeared on countless shows including “Every Day

By Dina El Nabli

with Rachael Ray” and NBC’s “TODAY” and delivered an acclaimed talk at TEDxAsburyPark about food and the joy of doing what you love.

The iconic chef is known for his creativity, presentation and innovative cooking techniques; among the most notable being his famous Pink Himalayan salt dry-aging process for beef. Burke cares as much about the ambiance at his restaurants as he does the menu. His love of design and culture permeate each space from the art on the walls to the interior design of each restaurant.

A father of three adult children, Connor, Dillon and Madeline, Burke is also an ordained minister who last year officiated his son Connor’s wedding to Melissa Welch at Red Horse by David Burke in Rumson. Burke has lived in NY, NJ and Europe but feels most at home in Monmouth County, where he grew up. He loves his hometown of Atlantic Highlands for its laid-back vibe, proximity to the water and accessibility to NYC, just a short ferry ride away.

Beyond investing in restaurants in NJ, Burke is big on giving back, and has been on the board of Table to Table, a North Jersey food rescue program, for 20 years. He also supports Meals on Wheels, Share

Our Strength and the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore, among other charitable organizations. We asked Burke about how it all began, his NJ restaurants and what’s next for him in the Garden State.

New Jersey Family: Where did your love of food begin?

David Burke: I grew up in Hazlet which is exit 117 on the Garden State Parkway. I was close enough to NYC to go to sporting events and concerts and have the vibe and grit of the New York City worker. I fell in love with the restaurant business at a very young age. My summer between freshman and sophomore year is when I decided to be a chef and quit the high school wrestling team. I got out of school a year early, started working at the Navesink Country Club in Middletown and also the Fromagerie in Rumson, which was a great experience, before I went to the Culinary Institute. I went to school, moved to Texas, moved to Norway, went to Europe, lived in Europe, worked in NYC and back to Europe a couple of times. I landed in the kitchen at The River Café in NYC and became executive chef there.

NJF: Your restaurants extend from New York City to Saudi Arabia but you’re really investing in New Jersey.

DB: I thought it would be more beneficial to come out to Jersey and start to take what we learned in New York at the high level, and filter it into doing business in Jersey. We’re building a nice network of chefs. What’s more appealing to them is to be able to work for a highly regarded chef and restaurant company that has the New York and national presence,

but not having to commute to New York to do it.

NJF: What dishes must we try at a David Burke restaurant?

DB: We do homemade bread, usually popovers. We have signature bacon hanging from a clothesline and lobster dumplings. If you see a crab cake, try it. We also do a very good job with burrata salads and tuna tartare and oysters, and also our steaks. We have a patent on dry meat. If you’re a steak lover, you’ll get a great one at any of our restaurants.

NJF: What are some NJ restaurants (besides your own) you love?

DB: I think Roots Steakhouse (with various locations in NJ) does a good job. Heirloom Kitchen in Old Bridge is a good restaurant. I go to my local favorites here in Monmouth County: Nicholas and Gabriella’s Italian Steakhouse, both in Red Bank. I go to Salt Creek Grille in Rumson. There’s a good little pizza bar in Atlantic Highlands called Strada. I like Pascal & Sabine, a French brasserie in Asbury Park. They do a really nice job. The River Palm Terrace is a good steakhouse in Edgewater and Fair Lawn. Son Cubano in West New York does a great job. Serenade and Scalini Fedeli, both in Chatham, are also very good.

NJF: Tell us about the Dixie Lee Bakery you bought in Keansburg.

DB: The bakery is a place my mother went when she was a kid. Oldfashioned bakeries are going out of business because you’re competing with one-stop shops like Wegmans, Whole Foods and ShopRite. We have to outshine them. I think Keansburg is a town that’s going to

Clockwise from above: Burke’s lobster dumplings; Market Fish Crudo at Drifthouse in Sea Bright; clothesline bacon at 1776 in Morristown; the bar at The Fox & Falcon in South Orange; Burke during a TV appearance with Maria Bartiromo and Burke speaking at TEDxAsburyPark.

DAVID BURKE HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT

(MARKET FISH CRUDO PHOTO) KAREN MAYER

grow quite well in the next two decades. I’m putting Dixie Lee Bakery on the boardwalk this summer with a little kiosk. We’re going to have sandwiches, push pops, donuts, black and white cookies and frozen cupcakes.

NJF: Your three kids are grown. How did you encourage them to be adventurous eaters? Any advice for parents of young kids?

DB: My oldest was a very bland eater. He ate pasta with butter. My younger boy, even when he was like 4 or 5, was eating sushi and clams, linguini with clam sauce, sea urchin, octopus and calamari. My daughter’s mother was a chef and caterer, so she grew up eating good food. She liked prosciutto and burrata, and shrimp and lobster and steak. I didn’t have to convince her to try things. All you can do is ask them to try. Don’t make a big deal about it. If you force them, it never works.

NJF: When you look back on your career, do you have a moment where you felt: ‘Wow, I’ve surpassed my wildest dreams’?

DB: I’ve had time to reflect since I bought my home in Atlantic Highlands. During the pandemic I spent a lot of time at home, something I rarely did because like all chefs I worked 60-70 hours a week. I’ve had time to actually be home and enjoy a home. Most chefs don’t spend a lot of time at home. A lot of them are single or divorced, and we don’t cook at home. Lately, I started to enjoy my surroundings more, and it has made me aware I have reached certain goals.

NJF: What do you love most about Atlantic Highlands?

DB: I like Atlantic Highlands because there’s a lot of history. It’s an old town with a cool vibe. It’s not a flashy town. It has a view of NYC; it’s on the bay. It’s a little fisherman’s village to a certain degree. Then it has all of these old Victorians and homes up in the hills here that are individually unique. These homes were built hundreds of years ago and they’re on hills and cliffs, and the roads are like you’re somewhere in San Francisco. You have hiking trails, and we have a downtown. We have one main road that has coffee shops, ice cream shops and a movie theater Kevin Smith just bought. There’s a music scene and an art area. I’m involved in Atlantic Highlands Arts Council. It’s like a little village. Whether you’re a hedge fund guy, a rock and roll star, a pro athlete or a bluecollar worker, everybody in Monmouth County treats everybody the same. There’s no snobbiness in this county.

NJF: Tell us about the reality show you’re developing.

DB: It’s a Jersey-based TV show filmed at my house with the Brookdale Community College Culinary Arts program. Five students will reside here during a five-week boot camp. They’ll get paid to work in my kitchens, get experience and develop skills. Each Sunday a student will lead a ticketed catered event for 70-100 guests. Money raised will be seed money for the students at the end. Top chefs will compete in a “draft” for their favorite student. We are opening doors for them to our country’s best chefs.

WINNER, WINNER,

Jersey Dinner!

Enter to win a dinner for two at one of these restaurants.

ORCHARD

PARK

orchardparkbydb.com

BY

DAVID BURKE, East Brunswick

A romantic brasserie set in the French-inspired Chateau Grande Hotel with a seasonal menu, Orchard Park is perfect for your next date night out. Unique dining spaces abound —a chef’s table, a wine room, the main dining room with custom tables, chairs and booths; and, the chic, covered outdoor Orchard Terrace with lounges, fire pits and its own bar. The menu features the award-winning celebrity chef’s modern American cuisine with seasonal items highlighted by his patented Himalayan sea salt dry-aged steaks.

Head to Instagram on April 24 to enter to win a $200 gift card!

RAT’S RESTAURANT

Hamilton

ratsrestaurant.com

Rat’s Restaurant has established itself as one of New Jersey’s most unique culinary attractions. Indulge in country-style French dishes and desserts, plus an impressive wine and beverage program. Nestled on the sprawling 42-acre Grounds for Sculpture you can dine by candlelight inside or out under the stars. Take in a view of the grounds inspired by impressionist painter Claude Monet’s beloved town of Giverny, overlooking a motif of the bridge from one of his most famous paintings, “Bridge Over a Pond of Water Lilies.”

Head to Instagram on April 25 to enter to win a $200 gift card!

CALANDRA’S ITALIAN VILLAGE, Caldwell

calandrasitalianvillage.com

There’s something for everyone at Calandra’s Italian Village—from warm bread made hourly to homemade gelato and sauces, pasta and imported wines from their vineyards in Italy and live entertainment. Il Vecchio Café offers pastas, entrees, paninis, burgers, salads, pizzas, flatbreads and more. La Taverna Lounge serves a wide selection of wine, cocktails and beer along with food from the bar menu. Head to the bakery for bread, desserts, pastries, pies, cakes and cookies or grab a cold Italian sandwich or hot-pressed panini from the Market & Deli.

Head to Instagram on April 26 to enter to win a $150 gift card!

THE FEATHERED FOX Livingston

thefeatheredfox.com

This picturesque and eclectic steakhouse and lounge is situated inside the Westminster Hotel. The menu is a departure from your traditional steakhouse as it offers a variety of choices—from a steak dinner to sushi to a raw bar. The craft cocktails and extensive wine list are stellar, too. Pair a porterhouse or dry aged bone-in ribeye with one-of-a-kind mashed potato rings, duck confit mac and cheese or classic creamed spinach.

Head to Instagram on April 27 to enter to win a $200 gift card!

GABRIELLA’S ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE Red Bank

gabriellasnj.com

Gabriella’s Italian Steakhouse is a modern and unique spot featuring premium steaks, a raw bar and classic Italian dishes. The chefs pride themselves on using seasonal, fresh ingredients. Standout dishes include The Grand Tower, which comes with Alaskan King crab leg, crab cocktail, oysters, shrimp and clams on the half shell and a whole lobster; the Tomahawk, a 45-day dry-aged cut of steak with roasted garlic broccolini, and a spicy rigatoni among others.

Head to Instagram on April 28 to enter to win a $100 gift card!

Pediatric Dentists:

rockaway orthodontics

Mike Lateiner, DMD,MS

“where great smiles begin”

Peter Paradiso, DMD, MBS

Orthodontist:

Denise Kitay DDS, MMSc

kidzworlddental.com

Creating Beautiful Smiles Since 1983

■ Specializing in orthodontics for adults and children

■ Consultations are always complimentary

■ Flexible financing options available

■ Most insurances are accommodated

It is orthodontics with a mom’s touch!

rockaway orthodontics

“where great smiles begin”

It is our mission to provide the highest quality orthodontic treatment in a warm, nurturing environment. We strive to create beautiful smiles through individualized treatment, in which our patient’s comfort is our highest priority.

• Consultations are Always Complimentary

• Most Insurances Accepted

• No Down Payment and Interest Free Financing

Melissa Roberto, DMD Orthodontics for Children & Adults

141 US Hwy 46 West #101 Rockaway, NJ 973-298-5900 rockawayortho.com

Community Begins With Friendship

Educating children ages 15 months to 6 years

Mendham 908-879-6355 westmontmontessori.org

Join

NJ Monthly Top Orthodontist

Howard B. Bobrow, DMD, PA NJ Specialty #3831

35 West Main St. #207, Denville • 973-627-5902 bobroworthodontics.com

Treating

Pediatric Dentists: Michael Lateiner, DMD

Peter Paradiso, DMD and Associates

Orthodontist: Kevin Lehnes, DMD

Blair Sittmann, DMD

121 Shelley Drive Hackettstown, NJ (908) 979-0606

www.BrightSmiles4Kids.com

Foodies JUST FOR

By Jennifer Amato

New Jersey is a destination in its own right for foodies, and part of its charm is the local food scene in towns all over the state. From fine dining to authentic ethnic cuisine or good old fashioned comfort food, these towns have it all.

ASBURY PARK

If you head to the boardwalk, you’ll find everything from overstuffed burritos at Pop’s Garage to Neapolitan-style pizza at Porta to carrot cake pancakes and lobster cobb salad at Toast City Diner, which also has locations in Montclair and Red Bank. The restaurants here offer plenty of excuses to come off the hot sand for a bit, or to fill up before a concert at the iconic Stone Pony.

CAPE MAY

Victorian homes and pristine beaches make the southern tip of NJ attractive to visitors, but locals know this is where to get the best seafood around. Jardin at the Hugh offers Instagram-worthy French cuisine; some seasonal specials use ingredients like bee pollen and sea buckthorn. For fans of farm-to-table and glass dining, Ebbitt Room gets its ingredients from Beach Plum Farm.

HOBOKEN

Del Frisco’s Grille is popular with celebrities for its top-notch prime cuts of beef. Tap into your Texan side at House of Que where you can get authentic ribs and pulled pork from a pitmaster. When the antipasto includes sauteed baby artichokes with pistachio, you know the rest of the menu at Blue Eyes Restaurant must be appealing.

JERSEY CITY

From the nationally-praised pizza at Razza to the unique beet

These towns are among our favorite spots to grab a bite

Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen, Morristown

Ebbitt Room, Cape May

Toast City Diner, Asbury Park

and red bean vegetable burger at Mathews Food and Drink, this is a fine food mecca. Pop into Franklin Social for a drink and cauliflower coconut curry. Get your Mexican fix with Orale’s Machin, roasted bone marrow topped with crispy pork belly and shredded cabbage. Then grab an overstuffed salted caramel chocolate chip cookie from Bang Cookies.

MONTCLAIR

Koreander serves classic Korean rice bowls like bibimbap and bulgogi. Charm Thai has an exhibition kitchen where you can see pineapple fried rice being made fresh. Marcel offers Mediterranean food based on a Moroccan Jewish background, which means the shakshuka, with its mushrooms, poached eggs, feta cheese and spices, are top of the list to try.

MORRISTOWN

Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen offers house-made pasta, and other favorites are lobster bisque and a quiche featuring mushrooms, broccoli and fontina. 1776 by David Burke is beloved for its signature bacon on a clothesline and the crab cake pretzel raft. There are dozens of burgers on the menu at Committed Pig including the mac & cheese burger.

PRINCETON

Mediterra reflects the multicultural vibe of the town with its eclectic menu, the star of which is paella for two—it’s worth the 30-minute prep wait. There’s also a solid pub scene here—Winberrie’s, Alchemist and Barrister and Yankee Doodle Tap Room all have great craft brews to go along with standout burgers and classics like fish and chips.

RED BANK

Stop at Buona Sera for its chicken cacciatore before you head to the Count Basie Center for the Arts for a show. Red Rock Tap + Grill serves a lamb burger you can eat while overlooking the Navesink River. Sally Boy’s Pizza is a newcomer, making a name for itself with its 16-inch Neighborhood Pie.

RIDGEWOOD

From Indian and Italian to French, Japanese and beyond, you’ll find a variety of cuisines here. Shumi is widely known as one of the best sushi restaurants in NJ. Try Roots Steakhouse for a 6-ounce filet with jumbo shrimp scampi. Bibillia is beloved for its Korean dishes loaded with flavor. Desserts here are aplenty, from exquisite French pastries at Sook to decadent cookies at Cookie Connect and Chip City.

SOMERVILLE

Savor Restaurants boasts standout eggplant, meatballs and Sambuca shrimp. Origin French Thai has some of the best food around including the Phuket shrimp. Division Café’s classics are a Costa Rican Gallo Pinto dish, arroz con pollo and a carrot sandwich.

Jardin at the Hugh, Cape May

Mediterra, Princeton

Orale, Jersey City

When you need an attorney, whose recommendation do you trust? We asked parents like you about the lawyers who’ve made a difference in their family’s lives at the most stressful of times. The result is a list of professionals who’ve gone above and beyond to advocate for their clients. From family law to estate planning to special needs, the lawyers on this list have been nominated by parents like you for being the best of the best. Thanks for voting—your recommendations will help families get top-notch representation when they need it most.

Best NJ Lawyers for Families

THE DETAILS

n The list doesn’t imply endorsement by New Jersey Family; it’s a parent-to-parent referral list only.

n A name in boldface indicates the attorney has purchased an advertising profile on the page number that follows.

n The professionals on this list were nominated by readers who were surveyed by New Jersey Family between November 2021 and November 2022.

BANKRUPTCY

Rebecca S. Ashkenazi • Union, p. 44

Andrew M. Wolfenson • Union, p. 44

BUSINESS

Brad M. Kaplan • Berkeley Heights, Fairfield, New York, p. 46

CIVIL RIGHTS/ CONSTITUTIONAL LAW

Ronald A. Berutti • Clark, p. 47

Gwyneth K. Murray-Nolan • Clark, p. 47

CRIMINAL DEFENSE

Stanley R. Pietruska • Bayonne

EDUCATION LAW

Karen F. Edler • Morristown, Woodcliff Lake, p. 36

Jacqueline E. Esposito • Morristown, Woodcliff Lake, p. 36

Michelle L. Krone • Morristown, Woodcliff Lake, p. 36

ELDER LAW

Mary Joan S. Kennedy • Florham Park

Constantina Koulosousas • Whippany

Donald D. Vanarelli • Westfield

EMPLOYMENT LITIGATION

Sheila O’Shea-Criscione • Hackensack

ESTATE PLANNING

Melissa M. Bracuti • Morristown

Michael Canarick • Red Bank, Wall

Larry Daniels, III • Roselle Park

Susan K. Dromsky-Reed • Roseland, p. 41

Hillary D. Freeman • Princeton, p. 46

Stuart M. Gladstone • Roseland, p. 41

Erica J. Goldberg • Morristown

Gary Haydu • Chatham

Alex M. Hilsen • Cranbury, Red Bank, p. 38

Brad M. Kaplan • Berkeley Heights, Fairfield, New York, p. 46

Mary Joan S. Kennedy • Florham Park

Constantina Koulosousas • Whippany

Beth C. Manes • Bridgewater, Paramus, Westfield, p. 47

Christine L. Matus • Toms River

Gretchan R. Ohlig • Westfield

Kimberly A. Paton • Fair Lawn

Stephen Scipione • Fairfield

Donald D. Vanarelli • Westfield

Jessica Weinberg • Bridgewater, Paramus,

Westfield, p. 47

FAMILY LAW

Rita M. Aquilio • Red Bank, Watchung, p. 43

Jessica L. Arndt • East Brunswick, p. 40

Santo V. Artusa, Jr. • Jersey City

Rebecca S. Ashkenazi • Union, p. 44

Alyssa Bartholomew • East Brunswick, Hackensack, p. 44

Kristyl M. Berckes • Red Bank, Watchung, p. 43

Rebecca A. Berger • Marlton

Jamie N. Berger • Morristown, p. 42

Jenny Berse • Westfield, p. 40

Samuel J. Berse • Westfield, p. 40

Sylvia L. Breitowich • Wall

Daniel A. Burton • Red Bank, Watchung, p. 43

Melissa Cipriano • West

Caldwell, p. 41

John E. Clancy • Hackensack, Whippany

Aaron Cohen • Morristown, Woodcliff Lake, p. 36

Ashley Tate Cooper •

Hackensack

LaDonna M. Cousins • Short Hills

Stacey A. Cozewith • Bridgewater, Hackensack, Morristown, Roseland, p. 37

Jerry S. D’Aniello • Bridgewater, Hackensack, Morristown, Roseland, p. 37

Carolyn N. Daly • Morristown

Scott D. Danaher • Bridgewater, Hackensack, Morristown, Roseland, p. 37

Nicholas De Metro • Montclair, p. 43

Erin D. DeGeorge • Clinton, Morristown

Rosanne S. DeTorres • Clinton, Morristown

Richard S. Diamond • Millburn

Helen M. Dukhan • Hackensack

Patricia A. Dulinski • Westfield, p. 45

Ashley E. Edwards • Red Bank, Watchung, p. 43

Robert Epstein • Hoboken, Montclair

Sandra C. Fava • Morristown, p. 42

Sean P. Gaynor • Morristown

Laura Guinta Gencarelli •

Lawyers are listed alphabetically by category.

Bridgewater, Hackensack, Morristown, Roseland, p. 37

JoAnne Juliano Giger • Roseland

Carolyn B. Hand • Clinton, Morristown

Allison E. Holzman • West Caldwell, p. 41

Robyn N. Howlett • Freehold

Sarah J. Jacobs • Morristown, p. 42

Ruth Kim • Paramus

Nicole A. Kobis • Westfield

Maria J. La Sala • Wayne, p. 46

Jeralyn L. Lawrence • Red Bank, Watchung, p. 43

Heidi Ann Lepp • Somerville

Joseph V. Maceri • Bridgewater, Hackensack, Morristown, Roseland, p. 37

Lauren A. Miceli • East Brunswick, p. 40

Joseph M. Murphy, Jr. • Morristown

Laurie L. Newmark • Hackensack, Whippany

Laura Nunnink • Fair Lawn

Tracey Oandasan • Woodstown

Gregory A. Pasler • Warren

Adelaide Riggi • Bridgewater, Hackensack, Morristown, Roseland, p. 37

Elizabeth Rozin-Golinder • East Brunswick, Hackensack, p. 44

Angelo Sarno • Bridgewater, Hackensack, Morristown, Roseland, p. 37

Allen J. Scazafabo, Jr. • Morristown, p. 48

Sheryl J. Seiden • Cranford

Amy Shimalla • Red Bank, Watchung, p. 43

Sean A. Smith • Roseland, p. 41

Edward S. Snyder • Bridgewater, Hackensack, Morristown, Roseland, p. 37

Elliot Solop • Red Bank

Carl J. Soranno • Roseland, p. 41

Alison J. Sutak • East Brunswick, p. 40

Victoria Tomasella • Hackensack

Emily Urrico • Red Bank, Watchung, p. 43

Courtney Vacca • Hackensack

Patricia L. Veres • Denville

Amy Wechsler • Red Bank, Watchung, p. 43

Bari Z. Weinberger •

Parsippany

Pegeen C. Williams • Short Hills

Edward A. Wojciechowski • East Brunswick, Hackensack, p. 44

Andrew M. Wolfenson • Union, p. 44

Jennifer L. Young • Cranford, p. 45

Melissa Zemsky • Springfield

GENERAL PRACTICE

Gina L. Campanella • Midland Park

LITIGATION

Joseph M. Murphy, Jr. • Morristown

PERSONAL INJURY

Edward P. Capozzi • Roseland, p. 41

Jeremy L. Hylton • Roseland, p. 41

REAL ESTATE

Rebecca S. Ashkenazi • Union, p. 44

Justin R. Calta • Florham Park

John P. Goncalves • Short Hills

Brad M. Kaplan • Berkeley Heights, Fairfield, New York, p. 46

Lynn A. Lisbona • Fairfield

Christine L. Matus • Toms River

Christopher Medina • Short Hills

Gretchan R. Ohlig • Westfield

Andrew M. Wolfenson • Union, p. 44

SPECIAL EDUCATION/ SPECIAL NEEDS

Lori E. Arons • Hackensack, p. 45

Lenore Boyarin • Cranbury, Red Bank, p. 38

Mariann Crincoli • Cranbury, Red Bank, p. 38

Karen F. Edler • Morristown, Woodcliff Lake, p. 36

Jacqueline E. Esposito • Morristown, Woodcliff Lake, p. 36

Hillary D. Freeman • Princeton, p. 46

Staci J. Greenwald • Cranbury, Red Bank, p. 38

Alex M. Hilsen • Cranbury, Red Bank, p. 38

Michelle L. Krone • Morristown, Woodcliff Lake, p. 36

Sandra L. Lascari • Madison, Morristown, p. 47

Beth C. Manes • Bridgewater, Paramus, Westfield, p. 47

Christine L. Matus • Toms River

Andrew I. Meltzer • Cranbury, Red Bank, p. 38

Denise Rekem • Clark

Melanie Ritter • Westfield

Julie Warshaw • Warren, p. 39

Jessica Weinberg • Bridgewater, Paramus, Westfield, p. 47

Jayne M. Wesler • Cranbury, Red Bank, p. 38

TAX

Brad M. Kaplan • Berkeley Heights, Fairfield, New York, p. 46

David J. Ritter • Roseland, p. 41

PRICE, MEESE, SHULMAN &

FAMILY LAW / EDUCATION / SPECIAL NEEDS LAW

Price, Meese, Shulman & D’Arminio, P.C.’s Education and Family Law groups provide the legal and practical advice imperative to a successful outcome for their respective clients. The dedicated attorneys work to the best of their professional abilities to guide clients to a successful resolution of their problems.

GUIDANCE FOR PARENTS AND STUDENTS

“Our attorneys empathize with parents’ struggles while advocating for their children’s rights, post-secondary students’ need to obtain reasonable accommodations and with all parties’ difficulty navigating the disciplinary morass,” says Karen Edler, founder of the firm’s Education Law Group. “We see the incredible stress on our clients’ families when harassment, intimidation and bullying cases (known as HIB) are filed. We know our clients need more than legal advice—they need partners to guide them.”

The Education Law Group advocates for parents’ and students’ rights through all levels of education. “We draw upon our personal experiences

P.C.

and knowledge of the law in order to passionately and effectively advocate for our clients,” Michelle Krone says.

The attorneys handle special and general education, discipline, HIB, guardianship and special needs planning cases. “We recognize the hurdles so many families face and we strive to alleviate the huge burden placed on parents to obtain an appropriate education for their children,” Jackie Esposito says.

CRAFTING SOLUTIONS FOR FAMILIES

Aaron Cohen devotes his practice to family law. In addition to representing clients in all types of family law matters, the courts appointed Cohen to serve as a parent coordinator and guardian ad litem. His wide breadth of experience through serving clients in these varied capacities provides him with unique perspectives from which to approach a case. “I am proud of my hands-on approach and ability to craft solutions that help families move forward,” he says.

D’ARMINIO,

Aaron Cohen, Esq., Karen F. Edler, Esq. , Jacqueline E. Esposito, Esq. , Michelle L. Krone, Esq.

(L-R): Jacqueline E. Esposito, Michelle L. Krone, Karen F. Edler, Aaron Cohen

FAMILY LAW / MEDICAL MALPRACTICE / PERSONAL INJURY

Snyder Sarno D’Aniello Maceri & da Costa LLC (SSDMD) is a legal powerhouse in family law, medical malpractice and personal injury. Angelo Sarno, Edward Snyder, Jerry D’Aniello, Joseph Maceri, Stacey Cozewith, Scott Danaher, Adelaide Riggi, Laura Gencarelli and the rest of the firm have provided strong, personalized legal representation throughout NJ since its inception in 2009. With offices in Essex, Somerset, Bergen, and Morris County and 29 attorneys, Sarno leads the firm and ensures that each client receives tailored, precise legal representation.

The family law division, led by Sarno, focuses on complex family law matters such as high-conflict divorces including domestic violence, alimony and child support. The firm’s medical malpractice and personal injury division is led by Paul da Costa. He dedicates his practice to protecting the rights of all individuals. One example is the $44 million total settlement in which the state of NJ agreed to pay the families of Menlo Park and Paramus veterans home residents whose deaths were attributed to the COVID pandemic.

SKILLED ATTORNEYS

Each of SSDMD’s attorneys have been hand-selected for their deep experience in their respective practice areas. This allows the firm to give every case a truly 360-degree assessment. The firm’s experience helps SSDMD see the underlying issues that other firms overlook and find solutions that may not be obvious.

Many of the firm’s attorneys are certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey—a title held by only two percent of NJ lawyers.

A FOCUSED APPROACH

The firm was built on a simple foundation—delivering client-focused representation with the primary objective of achieving the best possible results. SSDMD’s client-first focus guides everything the firm does, from the first meeting until the case is resolved.

“We believe our growth has been a direct result of the way we approach our cases and how we treat our clients,” Sarno says. “We support families every step of the way.” All offices are interconnected and operate seamlessly. SSDMD is fully adapted to handle all matters remotely.

Angelo Sarno, Esq. , Edward S. Snyder, Esq. , Jerry S. D’Aniello, Esq. , Joseph V. Maceri, Esq. Stacey A. Cozewith , Esq., Scott D. Danaher, Esq. , Adelaide Riggi, Esq. , Laura Guinta Gencarelli, Esq.

(L-R): Standing: Joseph V. Maceri, Stacey A. Cozewith, Angelo Sarno, Laura Guinta Gencarelli, Jerry S. D’Aniello. Seated: Edward S. Snyder, Adelaide Riggi, Scott D. Danaher

SUSSAN, GREENWALD & WESLER

Founded more than 40 years ago, Sussan, Greenwald & Wesler is one of the leading special education law firms in New Jersey. The firm’s attorneys have taken a hands-on, wholechild approach to help thousands of families receive access to appropriate educational opportunities and set new legal precedents in the state.

ADDRESSING EACH CHILD’S UNIQUE NEEDS

Each of the firm’s attorneys boasts a wealth of experience in the law. SGW’s attorneys bring unique expertise, having previous experience working in schools and developing and implementing programs for children, as well as being parents of children with unique needs. “While working in the education field, we all realized there was a group of kids whose needs were not being appropriately addressed…and felt that becoming attorneys was the way to change the system,” Greenwald says.

In 1975, personal circumstances involving founder Theodore Sussan’s autistic son compelled him to gain an understanding of the special

education rights of school-aged children. Today, the firm also offers financial services for families with special needs. An attorney with a background in finance and an LL.M. in estate planning, Hilsen offers his financial expertise to guide clients in estate issues including special needs trusts, wills, guardianship and general estate planning.

A TEAM APPROACH

The firm employs a team approach when addressing issues regarding children with special needs, allowing parents greater access to attorneys when they encounter difficulties dealing with school districts or during emergencies. The attorneys maintain amicable relationships with a vast majority of the state’s school districts.

“Our goal isn’t to litigate, but to get the services each child requires as quickly as possible and with the least amount of [parental] expenditure,” Greenwald says. “We’re constantly communicating to come up with the best plan and approach for each individual child. When you hire our firm, you become a member of our family.”

Staci J. Greenwald, Esq. , Jayne M. Wesler, Esq. , Lenore Boyarin, Esq. , Alex M. Hilsen, Esq., LL.M. Andrew I. Meltzer, Esq. , Mariann Crincoli, Esq.

(L-R): Lenore Boyarin, Andrew I. Meltzer, Staci J. Greenwald, Alex M. Hilsen, Jayne M. Wesler and Mariann Crincoli

SPECIAL EDUCATION LAW

Julie Warshaw is dedicated to ensuring that children with disabilities have access to and derive benefit from a free and appropriate public education (FAPE). Practicing since 1993, Warshaw helps children with autism, dyslexia, learning disabilities, cognitive impairments, language deficits, allergies, medical conditions, school-related anxiety, phobia and refusal, and other special needs to obtain an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan with the appropriate educational placement, services and accommodations to meet each child’s unique needs.

EASING PARENTS’ ANXIETIES

“When a child thrives in a learning environment, you know you did the right thing for that child,” she says. A mom herself, Warshaw has close family members with learning disabilities and understands how important it is for parents to be able to reach her directly with questions and concerns. “New clients are pleasantly surprised to find that I always answer my own phone,” she says. “I develop relationships with my clients, and I enjoy when they update me on their progress. It’s so rewarding to watch them succeed.” An

experienced mediator, litigator, and collaboratively-trained attorney, Warshaw represents children who have been victims of discrimination, institutional abuse, harassment, intimidation, bullying, cyberbullying and retaliation, as well as children and young adults with disabilities in the criminal justice system. Her practice areas also include guardianships, collaborative divorce, family law, mediation, and corporate and civil litigation.

EXPERIENCE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

A member of the New Jersey Special Education Practitioner’s Group, New Jersey Bar Association School Law Committee, and other professional organizations, Warshaw is a frequent guest speaker and consultant on special education matters and anti-bullying cases. Passionate about American Sign Language (ASL), she was instrumental in Bill S1760’s Legislative process by building awareness for the need to have ASL recognized as a world language in New Jersey, and for high school students to receive credit toward graduation requirements. It became law in 2015. She is the author of IBD Friendly Recipes for Crohn’s and Colitis and Justin’s Garden

WARSHAW LAW FIRM, LLC

Julie Warshaw, Esq.

ARNDT, SUTAK & MICELI, LLC

Arndt, Sutak and Miceli, LLC is a women-owned law firm exclusively practicing divorce and family law. Jessica L. Arndt, Alison J. Sutak and Lauren A. Miceli understand how emotional and stressful family law matters can be, and work hard to guide clients through the legal process while minimizing anxiety and fear.

Recognized individually by the Middlesex County Bar Association, the attorneys work as a team to ensure their clients’ best interests are always first and foremost. “We’re all parents of two children each, so we like to tell our clients we’re in the thick of it with them as far as parenting is concerned—and we think that helps our ability to counsel and work with

families,” Miceli says.

Each of the attorneys brings their own distinct skills to the table when working with clients. With previous experience as a prosecutor for domestic violence and sexual assault cases, Arndt is the firm’s go-to trial lawyer.

Sutak provides sensitive, compassionate counsel while Miceli is a fierce advocate and communicator. Each attorney adapts her approach to suit each client’s individual needs.

“We all love practicing family law because we strongly believe we can make a positive difference in our clients’ lives as they navigate these incredibly personal and difficult issues,” Miceli says.

Jenny and Samuel J. Berse are dedicated to solving family law matters in courts throughout New Jersey. Berse Law handles divorce, child custody and parenting time, equitable distribution and other family law issues.

Jenny opened the firm 19 years ago and her son, Sam, joined in 2017 after completing coveted family court and appellate division clerkships.

The attorneys provide practical advice and aggressive representation to achieve their clients’ goals.

“We fiercely advocate for our clients and we think outside the box to come up with creative solutions and strategies to get them what they want,” says Jenny, who completed more than

600 continuing education classes and is trained in mediation and collaborative law. “We’re here every step of the way.”

The attorneys provide the highest quality personalized service and pride themselves on 24-hour accessibility and responsiveness. “Navigating a tough situation requires an experienced guide and we’re aware of how important it is for our clients to maintain their emotional and financial well-being now and in the future,” Sam says.

Clients choose Berse Law because of its excellent reputation for success in even the most challenging matters, including two recent victories in published, law-making cases. Berse Law works not just for their clients, but with their clients.

Jessica L. Arndt, Esq., Alison J. Sutak, Esq., Lauren A. Miceli, Esq.

(L-R): Jessica L. Arndt, Alison J. Sutak, Lauren A. Miceli

(L-R): Jenny Berse, Samuel J. Berse

Brach Eichler LLC is a leading multipractice firm whose attorneys are recognized for their dedication to serving the legal needs of families, including plans for the care and financial security of children, marital formation or disruption and personal injury disputes and litigations.

Stuart M. Gladstone and Susan K. DromskyReed, co-chairs of the trusts and estates practice, ensure clients’ wishes are carried out in the future while David J. Ritter structures tax strategies. “It’s not easy to think about these issues, but your family must be protected,” explains Dromsky-Reed. “We help with wills and living wills, healthcare and financial powers of attorney, guardianship plans for

BRACH EICHLER LLC

your children and trustees over your assets.”

When considering marriage or facing the consequences of divorce, custody, guardianship or a trust dispute, Brach Eichler’s family law practice addresses these life changes on the family dynamics. Carl J. Soranno and Sean A. Smith, both certified mediators, skillfully provide awardwinning counsel to families in need of effective solutions. “Each matter has differing priorities and challenges. We help our clients achieve their unique objectives,” says Soranno.

Edward P. Capozzi and Jeremy L. Hylton help personal injury clients fight for full and fair compensation when injured through the careless actions of others. “We’re your support system, and our team’s compassion and expertise will deliver top quality results,” says Capozzi.

CIPRIANO LAW OFFICES, PC

At Cipriano Law Offices, PC, Melissa  Cipriano and her team work diligently to provide comprehensive, holistic service, pursue fair resolutions and achieve meaningful results that serve their clients’ best interests. With more than 70 years of family law experience, the firm maintains an eye on settlement while zealously advocating for their clients.

Melissa Cipriano and Allison Holzman are qualified economic mediators trained in collaborative law, so they work towards resolutions of even the most complex matters. As a court-appointed parenting coordinator and guardian ad litem, Cipriano blends her keen problem solving abilities with business acumen

to develop solutions for marital and custody issues while helping clients protect their business interests.

Clients also have access to attorneys specializing in appellate work and adoption, DCP&P and domestic violence cases. The firm’s legal team builds strong relationships with clients to fully understand their goals and concerns. While they can efficiently resolve disputes through negotiation, mediation or collaboration, they are prepared to aggressively advocate for clients in court when necessary.

“No matter what your family law matter is, our team can help,” Cipriano says. “Doing what’s best for a family is always our top priority.”

Edward P. Capozzi, Esq., Susan K. Dromsky-Reed, Esq., Stuart M. Gladstone, Esq., Jeremy L. Hylton, Esq. David J. Ritter, Esq., Sean A. Smith, Esq., Carl J. Soranno, Esq.

L-R: (Back row) Edward P. Capozzi, Jeremy L. Hylton, Stuart M. Gladstone, Susan K. Dromsky-Reed, David J. Ritter, (front row) Sean A. Smith, Carl J. Soranno

(L-R): Melissa Cipriano, Allison E. Holzman

Acompassionate, creative attorney and certified mediator, Sandra C. Fava provides thoughtful, diligent representation in family law matters. She remains closely connected to clients while helping families manage changes in their lives, which has especially been the case over the past two years.

“It’s so important to find an attorney who can work creatively on your case,” she says. “I pride myself on thinking outside the box to develop effective strategies and innovative solutions to navigate the backlogged court system and reach an end result faster.”

Fava and her team blend the personalized service of a boutique firm with the resources of

Sandra C. Fava, Esq.

a national firm. She handles family law matters including prenuptial agreements, separation and divorce proceedings, domestic violence and mediations and arbitrations. Fava helps clients with issues of alimony, child custody and support and equitable distribution and division of assets and debts.

She is committed to helping families move forward, and connects clients with professionals to address their financial or emotional needs. She has a podcast called Life After Love Gone Wrong for people who are contemplating or going through a divorce. “As a mom of three, I can never forget the importance of a human touch when working with families and supporting them through a difficult time,” she says.

JACOBS BERGER, LLC

At Jacobs Berger in Morristown, Sarah J. Jacobs and Jamie N. Berger aim to take the stress out of the divorce process. As qualified family law mediators and parents, they understand the importance of communicating with clients in a way that’s easy to digest when they’re balancing a full plate and navigating divorce.

“One of our top priorities is securing a stable future for our clients and their families,” Jacobs says. The solution-oriented attorneys are committed to helping clients devise a plan for the rest of their lives.

The JB team often recommends partnering with professionals from financial advisors to

therapists to help clients pave a smoother road towards their goals.

Their forward-facing mindset helps clients decide how to make choices for their future. “Every situation is unique. We stay focused on our client’s needs and desires to help them build the future they want,” says Jacobs.

The entire team understands the approach to family law matters isn’t one-size-fits-all, so they use communication, risk assessment and goal setting to mitigate the added stress to an already difficult time. “We’ve tried many cases but believe avoiding the stress and financial burden of litigation whenever possible is the most beneficial for the family,” Berger says.

Sarah J. Jacobs, Esq., Jamie N. Berger, Esq.

(L-R): Sarah J. Jacobs, Jamie N. Berger

LAWRENCE LAW

Jeralyn L. Lawrence,

At family law firm Lawrence Law, Jeralyn Lawrence, Rita Aquilio, Kristyl Berckes, Daniel Burton, Ashley Edwards, Amy Shimalla, Emily Urrico and Amy Wechsler provide a sophisticated, strategic and efficient approach to issues from alimony, child support and equitable distribution to custody and parenting time.

The attorneys have experience in all facets of divorce and matrimonial law, including litigation and mediation. “We’re strategic and compassionate, and achieving our clients’ goals—and tirelessly advocating for their best interests—remains our primary concern,” says Lawrence, a divorce trial attorney, trained mediator and arbitrator and mother of three.

Current president of the New Jersey State Bar Association, Lawrence helps families resolve personal matters with or without court intervention. “My dad was a juvenile detective so I gained a perspective on the law early on in life; I wanted to help people going through emotional and difficult life situations,” she says.

The Lawrence Law team guides families through the difficult process of divorce or a breakup towards their best outcome. The firm was chosen among the top family law firms in the New Jersey Law Journal’s Best of 2022 survey.

“We help families reach a better place as they navigate their journey—and help them be as happy as they can be,” Lawrence says.

An attorney since 1991, Nicholas De Metro has been representing clients as a divorce lawyer for several years. De Metro witnessed firsthand how emotionally and financially destructive divorce litigation is to the entire family—especially children—so in 2009, he changed his practice and dedicated himself to helping families going through the divorce process. He now devotes his practice solely to divorce mediation to limit the emotional pain and economic impact on families while assisting clients with improved methods of co-parenting.

A compassionate, solution-oriented and neutral mediator, De Metro provides a nonthreatening environment for couples to resolve issues such as the division of assets, debts, alimony, child

support and parenting issues. “Many clients have told me that I introduced issues they never even considered,” he says.

An accredited divorce mediator by the New Jersey Association of Professional Mediators, De Metro guides couples by taking a practical, evenhanded approach. He re-focuses the dialog while offering multiple options, clarifying divorce law and diffusing disputes—which provides both spouses with better control over the terms and conditions of their divorce and future. He is adept at helping couples develop creative, long-term solutions to complex issues that result in fair, reasonable and comprehensive settlement agreements.

“I’m committed to helping spouses resolve all of their issues and get divorced—without it costing a fortune,” he says.

Esq., Rita M. Aquilio, Esq., Kristyl M. Berckes, Esq., Daniel A. Burton, Esq., Ashley E. Edwards, Esq., Amy Shimalla, Esq., Emily Urrico, Esq., Amy Wechsler, Esq.

(L-R: Back row) Daniel A. Burton, Amy Shimalla, Jeralyn Lawrence, Amy Wechsler, Emily Urrico (Front row) Ashley E. Edwards, Kristyl M. Berckes, Rita M. Aquilio

ROZIN|GOLINDER LAW, LLC

Elizabeth

lizabeth Rozin-Golinder, Edward A. Wojciechowski and Alyssa Bartholomew fiercely represent their clients. These compassionate advocates help families navigate difficult and emotional family law matters, from divorce and child custody to domestic violence and postdivorce disputes; always offering each case a customized strategy

“Despite being born in the United States, English was my second language so I know what it’s like to feel lost, alone and unable to communicate…and sometimes legal matters can feel like a language you don’t understand,” RozinGolinder says. “I ensure my clients never have to feel that way.”

These skilled negotiators, mediators and litigators will not only tailor a strategy that’s individualized to each family’s circumstances and goals, but they do so with empathy. “Clients enjoy working with us because of our honesty—I never make a promise I can’t keep,” she says.

Rozin-Golinder has received numerous accolades from the legal community, including being named a NJ Super Lawyer since 2016. She was honored with the 2018 Young Lawyer of the Year Award for Middlesex County and the Martin S. Goldin Family Law Award in 2019.

“It’s so rewarding to see clients sigh with relief at the end of their case and know that we helped a family over a difficult hurdle and into the next chapter of their lives,” she says.

The attorneys at Wolfenson & Ashkenazi, PC strive to give clients a fresh start while providing pragmatic solutions to their family law, real estate and estate matters. Andrew M. Wolfenson, Rebecca S. Ashkenazi and their multilingual team combine the personalized attention of a small firm with the services and resources of a larger law practice.

The firm, which now includes four attorneys, handles a myriad of legal issues so they can truly be a “full-service” firm to their clients.

Wolfenson, a father of three, founded the firm in 2002. In 2020, he was joined by his longtime friend Ashkenazi who, after practicing real

estate in New York, wanted to join Wolfenson’s practice due to its family-like atmosphere when representing clients dealing with important life transactions and matters.

“We handle matters such as divorce, real estate, bankruptcy, business law, estate planning and probate matters, so we’re uniquely positioned to address any issue that may arise for families,” Wolfenson says.

The firm provides straightforward, honest assessments of each case to help clients devise realistic goals and settle matters as quickly and efficiently as possible. “We treat each client as if they’re our only client as we guide families through important life transactions, from divorce to buying a new home,” Ashkenazi says.

Rozin-Golinder, Esq., Edward A. Wojciechowski, Esq., Alyssa Bartholomew, Esq.

(L-R): Alyssa Bartholomew, Elizabeth Rozin-Golinder, Edward A. Wojciechowski

(L-R): Andrew M. Wolfenson, Rebecca S. Ashkenazi

LORI E. ARONS, ESQ.

SPECIAL EDUCATION LAW

Lori E. Arons understands the plight of parents of children with special needs firsthand. “My kids were born with disabilities, and I ran into the same brick walls everyone else does. Even with the advantage of being a lawyer, navigating the process was difficult,” she says. “I’m compelled to use my knowledge and experience to help children get the services they need.” Passionate about empowering families, she strives to help clients obtain appropriate educational services quickly and efficiently to ease the emotional and financial burden.

Arons holds a certificate from William & Mary Law School Institute of Special Education Advocacy, is a member of New Jersey Special Education Practitioners, and was named by NJBIZ as one of the 2019 Power 50 in Education.

“There’s no greater reward than making a positive difference in the life of a child,” she says. “I do it by advocating.”

Lori E. Arons, Esq.

One University Plaza, Ste. 401, Hackensack 201-388-9533 • specialeducationlawyernj.com

DUGHI, HEWIT & DOMALEWSKI, PC

FAMILY LAW

Apartner in the family law practice at Dughi, Hewit & Domalewski, Jennifer L. Young guides families through all issues incident to the dissolution of marriage. While Young remains settlement-oriented, she is experienced and prepared to litigate even the most complex financial and high-conflict custody cases.

Young walks clients through every scenario so they can make the best decisions for their families. She is a trained and court-approved family court mediator, which enables her to provide the best

possible advice and counsel to clients.

“The most fulfilling part of what I do is seeing how families often end up in a better place than they were before a divorce,” says the mother of a six-year-old and twin two-year-old boys. “It’s my job to be an expert voice of reason in what is usually a highly emotional experience, and to support my client in every way.”

Jennifer L. Young, Esq. 340 North Ave. East, Cranford 908-272-0200 dughihewit.com

DULINSKI LAW, LLC

FAMILY LAW

Practicing family law for 20 years, Patricia A. Dulinski, Esq. focuses on achieving the best possible results for families. She is committed to offering creative solutions while helping clients develop a strategy to resolve their legal matters—and protecting children is her highest priority.

“I strive to resolve cases and leave a family in a better position than where I found them,” says the mom of three. Dulinski prefers mediation to litigation whenever possible to help clients reach fair agreements that make sense for their families.

“My clients are dealing with family conflict, juggling budgets and jobs, caring for children and possibly selling their home, and I ensure they have the tools they need to embrace a new transition in life and protect themselves and their children,” she says.

Patricia A. Dulinski, Esq. 220 Lenox Ave., Ste. 301 Westfield 908-588-2299 dulinskilaw.com

FREEMAN LAW OFFICES, LLC

Hillary Freeman’s passion for representing people with special needs and their families stems from personal experience. “I was inspired to become a special needs lawyer after watching my family struggle to secure the appropriate supports for my brother with autism,” she says.

Freeman’s career evolved from advocating for her clients in schools and the courtroom to becoming actively involved in organizations like Autism NJ, POAC and ASPEN. Former vice president of the LDA of NJ, she has presented on special education

and civil rights matters throughout the US, United Nations, Ghana and Liberia.

She has experience representing clients in special education and Section 504 issues, higher education, guardianship matters, estate planning and adult services. “My goal is to get my client all the supports they need to become as independent as possible in all aspects of their lives,” Freeman says.

KAPLAN LAW GROUP, PC

BUSINESS/ESTATE PLANNING/REAL ESTATE/TAX LAW

Founded in 2012, the Kaplan Law Group supports clients with compassion, integrity, responsiveness and trust. The firm provides personalized solutions in real estate, business planning and estate, trust and tax planning and administration.

As founding member and managing partner, Brad M. Kaplan utilizes his expertise working in both large and boutique firms to provide high-quality, efficient service for families. He assists each individual client, taking a holistic, pragmatic approach while providing everything from the simple to highly complicated.

J.

Kaplan prides himself on being exceptionally responsive to clients and taking the time to listen to their unique needs. “I have real-life experience with the issues facing my clients, so I understand the importance of offering alternative solutions and determining the approach that’s right for their families,” he says.

Offices in Berkeley Heights, Fairfield and New York 973-313-3377 kaplanlawpc.com

FAMILY LAW

Maria J. La Sala is a detail-oriented, compassionate attorney who prides herself on being responsive and committed to offering personalized attention to bringing conflicts to an amicable resolution. Practicing family law for three decades, she takes the time to understand each family’s situation to advocate the best outcomes.

She says she chose to practice family law to help kids. “A divorce can be traumatic for the entire family, and adults often lose sight of its impact on children… so everything I do is always with their best interests in

mind,” she says. “I firmly believe that every case can and should be resolved through mediation and there’s nothing more rewarding to me—especially when children are involved—than helping a couple craft their own settlement and resolution.”

Maria is highly experienced in mediation and helping couples avoid costly litigation to reach a settlement.

Hillary D. Freeman, Esq. 103 Carnegie Ctr., Ste. 300, Princeton 609-454-5609 • freemanlawoffices.com

Brad M. Kaplan, Esq.

MARIA

LA SALA LAW GROUP & MEDIATION, LLC

Maria J. La Sala, Esq. 1410 Valley Rd., Ste. 200, Wayne 973-305-4500 • mariajlasala.com

THE LAW OFFICES OF SANDRA L. LASCARI, LLC

SPECIAL EDUCATION LAW

When representing parents of children with disabilities, Sandra L. Lascari relies on her more than 30 years of legal experience to devise an appropriate plan for each child—and fights for their rights in the courtroom when necessary. “We believe all children need to be successful and happy in school, which translates into being successful and happy in life,” she says.

“Our mission has become increasingly urgent during the pandemic—families need our support more than ever.” A former Morris County assistant

prosecutor, her practice helps families with all special education issues as well as guardianship and estate planning. She has been a New Jersey Family “Best NJ Lawyer for Families” since 2018.

“We act as an advisor for parents and an advocate for children to help them navigate the system and create successful outcomes,” she says. “Your child matters to us.”

Sandra L. Lascari, Esq. 80 Greenwood Ave., Madison 350 Mt. Kemble Ave., Ste. A1003, Morristown 973-377-6725 • lascarilaw.com

MANES & WEINBERG

SPECIAL NEEDS ADVOCACY / BULLYING / GUARDIANSHI P / ESTATE PLANNING

Founders Jessica Weinberg, Beth C. Manes and their team specialize in special needs advocacy, bullying, guardianship and estate planning. The attorneys value and respect their clients’ input and utilize a team approach when collaborating with families

“Having advocates on staff enables parents to obtain positive outcomes for children at a lower cost and allows the process to feel less adversarial,” says Weinberg, who served as a special education mediator for the NJ Department of Education for over a decade and is now an IEP Facilitator.

Both attorneys have been recognized as NJ Super Lawyers. Manes was named one of the “Best 50 Women in Business” by NJBIZ for 2023. She is known for resolving complex contested guardianships and probate matters. “We are tenacious and creative in our approach to helping our clients achieve their goals,” she says.

Jessica Weinberg, Esq.

Beth C. Manes, Esq. Westfield / Paramus / Bridgewater 973-376-7733 • manesweinberg.com

MURRAY-NOLAN BERUTTI LLC

CONSTITUTIONAL & CIVIL RIGHTS LAW

Ronald A. Berutti and Gwyneth K. MurrayNolan left their positions as equity partners in a large New Jersey law firm and opened Murray-Nolan Berutti LLC on January 1, 2022. Berutti and Murray-Nolan saw the need for people to fight back against what they observed as growing threats to freedom in daily life.

Since then, Berutti and Murray-Nolan have filed Constitutional law claims related to vaccine mandates, mask mandates, critical race theory, sex ed curricula, gender affirming care, free speech, and Second Amendment issues. Moreover, Berutti and

Murray-Nolan have had great success in helping individuals obtain medical exemptions for vaccine mandates. The attorneys work with individuals to make litigation as affordable as possible, and to pursue common sense solutions which give families their best chance of success. Learn more at www.murray-nolanberutti.com.

Ronald A. Berutti, Esq.

Gwyneth K. Murray-Nolan, Esq. 136 Central Ave., 2nd Fl., Clark 908-588-2111

www.murray-nolanberutti.com

(L-R): Jessica Weinberg, Beth C. Manes

(L-R): Ronald A. Berutti, Gwyneth K. Murray-Nolan

Practicing family law for 20 years, Allen Scazafabo prides himself on his accessibility to clients and ability to devise creative solutions while enacting positive change in the law. He provides a personalized, intuitive approach to meeting his clients’ needs and achieving their goals.

A partner of Riker Danzig, Scazafabo collaborates with the attorneys at the 140-year-old firm to help clients resolve issues that arise during their divorce, from taxes to real estate.

“We know how important these issues are for

families, so we go the extra mile for our clients,” says the father of three. “I often work around the clock and make sure they can always reach me.”

Certified by the NJ Supreme Court as a matrimonial law attorney, he was named to the Advisory Board for the American Academy of Financial Litigators in 2020 and served on the Family Law Executive Committee of the NJ State Bar Association.

Deeply knowledgeable, genuine, caring, passionate, dependable and accessible … these are just a handful of the words YOU, our readers, used to describe your favorite attorneys. Thanks to this year’s nominees for being tireless advocates and fighters for families throughout the Garden State.

Preschool Days

How to decide what type of school is best for your little one

Starting preschool is a big milestone in your child’s life. There are so many options out there that it’s no wonder the whole process can feel overwhelming. But with a little research you can find the preschool or daycare that’s just the right fit.

FULL-DAY PROGRAM

If you’re looking for a full-day preschool, start with a nursery school or public school program that’ll kick off their educational life with group projects, teacher-student interaction, lots of play and friendship making. Look for a cheerful environment with age-appropriate books, blocks, art materials and other preschool essentials. The school should be functional for learning, but also cozy and welcoming. This place is going to be your kid’s home-away-from-home, so what you see really matters. A typical fullday program will offer a mix of child-led and teacher-led activities. Make sure that the staff radiates positivity since these are the people who will be spending the majority of time with your little ones. A great preschool or daycare will have a set schedule you can see so ask what a typical day is like. Be sure to ask about health and safety protocols and remember, it’s a given that the preschool or daycare should be licensed by the state.

MONTESSORI

At a Montessori school, kids can engage in collaborative learning experiences and individual activities at their own pace in order to develop independence, explains Kristina Koonce, senior marketing and communications specialist for Apple Montessori Schools throughout NJ.

The curriculum at a Montessori includes music, art, yoga, foreign language, character development and technology. Plus, kids learn how to do daily tasks such as washing dishes or putting away materials. “This handson learning approach means that students don’t just learn concepts and facts, but also practical skills with everyday uses,” Koonce says.

Program schedules vary by location, so ask if you can enroll your kid in a five full-day-a-week option or possibly a half-day instead.

NATURE-BASED

Many parents find that their children really thrive in the environment of a Waldorf school. For the past 100 years, Waldorf has focused on outdoor

By Jennifer Amato

nature exploration. Children participate in gardening, arts and crafts and singing. Daily activities may include free play and practical work, circle time and nature walks. Each day includes rituals so things become familiar and predictable, says Shawnette Henry of Green Meadow Waldorf School in Chestnut Ridge, NY.

“Through play, children develop the capacity for creative thinking, problem solving and social resilience and build a foundation for academic success in grade school,” she says.

Parents can choose a half day or full day. There’s also an Early Childhood after school care program.

Another nature-based program is Sprout House in Chatham. “We teach our curriculum by what’s really happening outside,” says director Kathy Abbott. The students venture to Memorial Park next door, rain or shine, as long as it’s above 20 degrees, to do their exploring. They will look at teeth marks in acorns, check out the insects and animals, roll on the ground or jump in puddles, and then talk and read about those subjects.

FAITH-BASED

A faith-based school will help foster a deeper relationship with God, focus on community, character and integrity and advocate service to others, says John Falcone, director of admissions for Saint James School in Basking Ridge.

The nurturing environment there “instills in our students the importance of living a life of virtue, helping them to grow into good citizens of the world and the leaders of tomorrow,” Falcone says. Saint James teaches kids up to eighth grade about religion, language arts, math, science, social students, art, music, language and technology. And every student gets to participate in recess. But faith-based schools are not just for devout members of a particular religion. At most religious preschools, you can enroll your kid even if you’re not part of that religious sect.

REGGIO EMILIA

A Reggio Emilia curriculum can help kids express their individuality. The fundamental principles are that children play a vital role in their learning and can discover their place in the world

through meaningful interactions. This philosophy centers around the idea that the child’s environment can teach them so much about the world and that kids need an open place for self-expression.

In NJ, some of the schools that follow this approach are A Child’s Place School in Lincroft, International Children’s Academy in Budd Lake and Voyager’s Community School in Oceanport.

COOPERATIVE PRESCHOOL

A cooperative preschool allows you to be directly involved with your child’s experience. In a co-op, the parents maintain the preschool and hire their own trained teachers. Each class is structured for the age group and a lot of the learning is play based. It’s led by a teacher who is trained by the college that is affiliated with the preschool.

The benefit is that you are truly involved with every step of your child’s education. This type of setup also gives parents a chance to meet one another and form a community. Parents are present in the classroom and make up the school board, so they are involved in all important decisions. Co-ops tend to be widely available (there are myriad across NJ), inclusive of parent input and affordable. Plus, the older your kid gets the parent involvement decreases, so they will develop a sense of independence.

Whether you choose a public, private, religious or play-based school, doing your research to make sure your child has a successful start is key. Remember, you know your child best, so go with your gut! Speak to the principal or administrator, ask for a school tour and talk to other parents to figure out where your kid will be happiest.

Getting Social

How social skills groups can make all the difference for neurodiverse kids

Greeting your peers. Taking turns during a board game. Sharing your markers. These are all skills kids generally pick up from being at school and playing with other kids. But for neurodiverse children (especially those on the autism spectrum) social skills can be difficult to understand and learn. Yet they are essential to every aspect of life from work situations to friendships—and even just being able to get along with others in the community on a day-to-day basis.

Enter social skills groups, which are meetings of varying sizes comprised of children with different needs and skill sets all working with a trained ABA (applied behavior analysis) therapist to increase

By Ronnie Koenig

their understanding and practical application of how people communicate with one another.

Rebecca Zegas, MA, BCBA, owner and executive director of Limitless Behavioral Services and Consulting, says kids with autism can greatly benefit from the type of social skills groups she runs out of her center in Hamilton.

“In general, social skills groups are a way for us to target the skills that are most difficult for the autistic population in a controlled way so they can be more successful in a natural environment,” she says. For kids who don’t naturally catch on to social cues or understand cooperative play, these skills are targeted and reinforced—with the

goal being to eventually fade out the prompting.

BENEFITS FOR ALL AGES

These groups can start working on the most basic of social skills as young as preschool age, Zegas says. Even teens can benefit from the groups if they’ve had no previous experience with them.

“We create our groups based on the individual needs of the students in that group,” she says. “At Limitless, we offer different groups at different levels.” From there students can progress from basic skills like turn taking during a game of Zingo or Connect Four to learning to share their LEGOs. Even students who are not verbal can participate.

“We adapt all of our programming,” she says. Kids will start by learning that when a friend says “hi,” you say “hi” back.

“So much of social skills is about observing what’s happening,” she says. That could mean standing up when an instructor says “everybody stand up.”

“The next group level might include more intricate game play,” Zegas explains. That could mean playing a game where you have to look and see what your partner has and what you have. A student could then move on to more group activities, which could look like two or three students doing a big floor puzzle. “With this, we’re targeting working together,” she says. “During art projects our students work on things like asking a friend for a crayon.”

KEEPING KIDS MOTIVATED

While social play is fun for most kids, at first many need individual motivation systems in place to get them to buy in. That could translate to periodically earning free time or alone time during a group and progressing up to earning free time at the end of the group meeting. “Our students also have a rules card that is specific to them,” she says. This could have reminders such as: Did I ask my friends for things? Did I keep my hands to myself? Did I show good sportsmanship?

Most groups are around an hour-and-a-half long and they can vary in size from just two peers with two staff members to up to nine peers with two staff members, says Zegas. At Limitless, some students meet on weekdays or Saturday mornings. For kids age 10 and up, there are groups for just boys and just girls. Kids in these groups go on outings to places such as the bowling alley, or shopping at the mall after role playing customer and cashier at the center. “We also target self-care for our older students since their bodies are changing,” she says.

There are varying levels in those groups—some kids are verbal, others communicate differently, but everyone belongs.

THINGS TO LOOK FOR

Zegas says that parents should look for a program that is continuous and is able to grow with your child versus a six-to-eight week program where you may have to wait to reenroll. She says it’s also important that decisions for programming be based on data and that there

should be specific goals for individuals. “I would be concerned if it’s ‘immerse yourself in the environment and hope for the best’ versus an individualized program,” she says. “Ask, ‘What are the plans for generalization of the skills that are learned?’”

PEER MODELS AND POSITIVE OUTCOMES

Social skills groups aren’t just for kids with autism—some include kids with ADHD or different communication issues, while others may have neurotypical peers included, often siblings of the children involved or children of the staff. Many parents report that social skills groups have made a big impact on their kids’ lives.

“We’ve had parents tell us that their child who was never able to go play on the swing set independently went up to someone and said, ‘Can I play with you?’ or ‘Chase me,’” she says.

It’s also important to recognize and respect how social a being your child is and how much they like a particular activity, Zegas says.

“You’re not going to learn good social skills if you’re being forced into an activity so it’s about bringing in a lot of choice,” she says. “We want them to enjoy it.”

Many kids on the spectrum do prefer to spend time on their own, and Zegas says that in some cases, a large social skills group might not be appropriate.

“In that case, we work on skills to function as a member of the community. When someone talks to you, you answer. You greet people and look in their direction at least. That you can ask people for things or for help if needed.”

Social skills groups are often covered by health insurance for children with autism, so check with your healthcare provider. You can search for a social skills group near you by using the resource guide at Autism Speaks (autismspeaks.org/resource-guide).

Delaware River Railroad EXCURSIONS

The Delaware River Railroad Excursions runs weekends from May to the end of October . There are many events for the whole family. From gem stone mining, exploring the corn maze, and even picking pumpkins, there is something for everyone! The adults will enjoy the Winery train with a tour and tastings. The Polar Express, A Day Out With Thomas and Dino Days are all special events for the whole family. Buy tickets online.

38 MARKET ST., PHILLIPSBURG | 877-872-4674

877TRAINRIDE.COM

Big Kahuna’s Water Park

PARKS & RECREATION

Big Kahuna’s Indoor Water Park is open year-round featuring weatherproof fun with Island Time vibes. Splash, Surf and Slide the day away at New Jersey’s favorite Staycation Destination. Guests of all ages will enjoy over 70,000 square feet of water attractions and state-of-theart arcade.

535 NORTH RTE. 73., WEST BERLIN | 856-767-7580

BIGKAHUNAS.COM/NJ

Wild West City

Disconnect from the modern world and reawaken the spirit of the American West with an interactive adventure like no other bringing tales of the wild west to life. Cowboys and Cowgirls of all ages step into our authentic western town and feel as if they have entered a real wild west town from the year 1880. Come visit shoppes, museums, meet the townsfolk and their horses, participate in the action, rides and so much more!

SUSTAINABLY HOW TO LIVE MORE AS A FAMILY

By Heidi L. Borst

The idea of reducing your family’s carbon footprint can feel overwhelming but with some effort, it can be done. A great place to focus your family’s sustainability efforts is on creating less waste. The amount of trash produced by Americans every year is monumental. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), 292.4 million tons of municipal solid waste was generated in the U.S. in 2018—that’s an average of 4.9 pounds per person per day. The good news? There are plenty of ways to cut back and green-up your lifestyle.

START A GARDEN

NJ is known as the Garden State, and Bayville resident Lisa Mazzuca (pictured above) has been gardening organically with her family since 2009. The mom of two says she learned along the way, documenting the progress on her blog, mynjgarden.com. “I started when my children were very young because I wanted us to enjoy outdoor activities together and teach them to grow food and live a sustainable life,” Mazzuca says. And she didn’t stop there.

The family now has a “food forest” full of fruit trees, berry bushes, perennial vegetables and native plants on their property. “A food forest provides years of harvests and requires minimal input from the gardener

once established—which is great for busy families,” says Mazzuca.

If you’re new to gardening, it’s easy to get started. Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station (NJAES) recommends choosing a location with direct sunlight, since all vegetables require five to eight hours of sun per day. It’s also important to be sure the area you choose is free from drainage— that means there should be no standing water after it rains. Finally, make sure to plant your garden away from trees and other foliage so it doesn’t have to compete for resources. The experts at Duke Farms in Hillsborough suggest new gardeners plant annual vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, celery, squash, cucumber, melon and spinach.

COMPOST FOOD WASTE

Deanna Taylor-Heacock, founder of Good Bottle Refill Shop in Maplewood and New Jersey Family’s Mompreneur of the Year in 2020, says her family decided to tackle the biggest thing they could have a direct impact on: their waste. “The first thing we did was sign up for a compost service,” she says. “Seeing our food waste for an entire week fill out a five-gallon bucket was very eye-opening.”

Composting is a process that breaks down organic food waste into soil or

mulch through natural decomposition, according to the USEPA. To do it, combine food scraps like fruits, vegetables and coffee grounds with leaves, yard trimmings or grass in a compost bin. Enrolling in a service makes it even easier—simply fill the container provided and put it out for pickup on your designated service day.

Mazzuca’s family has been composting since 2010. She says it’s a great way to keep organic waste out of landfills, reduce the garbage your family produces and create nutrient-rich organic fertilizer for your garden for free. Check out litterless.com for a list of local composting services.

SIGN UP FOR A CSA

Joining a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) plan isn’t just a great way to support local farmers. Because the food is grown and transported locally, CSAs are more sustainable than a grocery store, says Jen Cardenas, a vegan and mom of three in Fanwood. “There also isn’t individually bagged produce. Usually, all of your produce is in a cardboard box,” she says. “There’s no plastic used at all.”

The first step in joining a CSA is finding a local one that works best for you and your family, advises Cardenas. Some CSAs require volunteers to help put boxes together, whereas others don’t have such requirements.

Participating in a CSA means paying for the program in advance or through installments during the growing season; in return, you’ll receive fresh produce, eggs and other farm products at regular intervals, typically from late spring to early fall. To find a CSA near you, visit Organic Consumer Association’s list of CSAs in New Jersey or type in your ZIP code at localharvest.org.

INVEST IN REUSABLE PACKAGING

To eliminate single-use items, Taylor-Heacock conducted a review of the items her family purchased on a weekly and monthly basis. Then, the family looked for sustainable and reusable items to replace them with. “We’re not 100 percent waste-free, but we say no to things like plastic bottles and Ziploc bags and always opt for easily recyclable aluminum cans when we’re out and about,” she says, adding that overall, it’s made a big difference.

Opening Good Bottle Refill Shop, a place where household products and pantry items can be refilled, is Taylor-Heacock’s way of helping her community move away from single-use packaging.

BORROW BEFORE BUYING

Before buying anything new, shop your home for the items you need, suggests Jamie Novak, a sustainability organizer in Scotch Plains and author of “Keep This, Toss That.” Many times, you’ll find what you need or something you can use instead. “I also love to borrow. We tend to forget about our library, friends and neighbors who can lend us things. We don’t all have to own one of everything,” she says.

Novak has her clients keep a running list of places to recycle and donate items. That way, you know where to send an item you aren’t using, in turn keeping it out of the landfill. She also recommends joining a local Buy Nothing group through Facebook. “You can post items to give, post wanted ads for things you need and even list broken items—someone might want to scrap it for money, tinker with it or [use it for] parts.”

MAKE ENERGY-EFFICIENT HOME UPGRADES

Reducing the overall energy consumption of NJ homes is a passion of sustainability expert and father Scott Fischer, who owns Ciel Power LLC, a home energy audit and energy efficiency retrofit provider based in Kearny. The first step in creating a more sustainable home? A home energy audit to assess how much energy your home consumes, says Fischer.

Fischer encourages families to take advantage of resources like New Jersey’s Home Performance with ENERGY STAR, which offers homeowners incentives to improve the energy efficiency of their homes; and the new Inflation Reduction Act provides renewable tax credits and rebates to eligible homeowners who make energy-efficient home upgrades, including installing solar insulation, purchasing energy efficient appliances including super-efficient heat pumps, water heaters, clothes dryers, stoves and ovens and making other improvements to reduce energy leakage.

No matter what area of your life you choose to tackle, make going greener a family affair.

“…we say no to things like plastic bottles and Ziploc bags and always opt for easily recyclable aluminum cans...”

PHOTO COURTESY OF DEANNA TAYLOR-HEACOCK

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Your child deserves to be treated like a princess on their special day. At Glitter & Glam, we make it happen. We make every little child’s dream come true with our once-in-a-lifetime party package experience and lavish spa services.

Count on our highly trained staff to make your child’s birthday party one they will never forget. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our spa for kids, kid’s party packages, and spa party packages.

Next-Level Birthday Parties

Looking for awesome birthday party ideas to make this year’s event unforgettable? Read on!

You’ve done the Disney princesses and Marvel superheroes, the pool parties, the Chuck E. Cheese experience. Now you’re looking for more unique options guaranteed to earn you “coolest mom” status. To spark your creativity, we’ve put together some venues, vendors and services sure to get you—and your child—primed to host the best birthday bash ever!

BRING THE PARTY TO YOU

Rev up the fun with these on-the-go options. A favorite with kids of all ages, GameTruck (gametruckparty.com) pulls into your driveway and kids get on board and choose from 120+ games to play. GameTruck’s high-definition TVs amp up the party atmosphere along with music, ultra-comfy seating and engaging game coaches. Kids will have a blast with Bubble Man from NJ Bubble Parties (njbubbleparties.com) who’ll bring the play to your kids, especially those ages 3–5 years, with interactive music and dancing, bubble tricks and the ever-popular “kid in a bubble” finale.

Mobile Makers’ (mobilemakers.us) specialty is “art anywhere”— creatively adventurous DIY craft and sensory pop-up parties for all ages, brought to your outdoor space in their tricked-out trailer. Offering highenergy parties tailored to kids of all ages, Party Maniacs (thepartymaniacs. com) come to you with fast-paced music and games like the crowd-pleasing toilet paper blower. Neon Circus NYC (neoncircusnyc.com) provides Glow In the Dark Circus for home-based birthday parties as well as its space in Hackensack for celebrations and master classes. The show experience is an hour, followed by two hours to celebrate.

If the kitchen is where your child’s creativity lies, you’ll want to see what’s cooking at The Art of Cooking (theartofcooking.net), a company that will work with you to create hands-on, age-appropriate in-home cooking and baking parties; from pizza to cookies, parties are customized to your child’s favorite foods. For after-party desserts, you can’t go wrong with the tasty treats from Curbside Confections (curbsideconfections. com), a mobile caterer that brings sweet treats to you. Be sure to check out their new Gourmet Cotton Candy mini Jeep and their physical store in Park Ridge.

ANIMAL ATTRACTIONS

By Nayda Rondon

Little Hooves Farm (littlehoovesfarm.com) creates a fun farm experience where kids get to groom ponies, play with goats, hold chickens and learn all sorts of fascinating farm facts. At Hunter Brook Horse Farm (hunterbrookhorsefarm.com) birthday parties feature a petting zoo, a horse that does tricks, grooming session, arts and crafts, mini riding lesson, karaoke and more. With indoor and outdoor areas, the farm can host your party any time of year. You’ll reap a rich harvest of fun at Alstede Farms (alstedefarms.com). A real working farm, it offers activitythemed party packages, available seven days a week, or a basic rental

Mobile Makers

Glitter & Glam

option, available Mondays through Fridays, that lets you customize your event. Choose from year-round indoor parties or seasonal outdoor-tented celebrations; make your party extra-special with add-ons like pony rides, hay wagon rides and the sunflower maze. For a wild and wonderful nature experience, check out the theme parties—Silly Scavenger Hunt (ages 2-5), BEARthday party (ages 6-8), Survival (ages 8-12) and Magical Beasts (all ages)—at the Tenafly Nature Center (tenaflynaturecenter.org).

ADVENTURE ABOUNDS

For a seasonal outdoors experience big on daring-do, embark on high seas thrills with Jersey Shore Pirates (jerseyshorepirates.com), which offers customizable parties on a “pirate” ship. Equipped with eye patches and swords, mini-mates will work the cannons, battle enemy pirates, hoist sunken treasure, and take home lots of loot and pirate yarns.

The sky’s the limit on the fun kids will have at Urban Air Trampoline & Adventure Park (urbanair.com), an indoor trampoline center hosting open jump, Ninja obstacle courses, climbing walls and other test-yourlimits activities for birthday groups. For action-packed variety, you can’t go wrong at Arena STEM (arenastem.com), an experience center where boys and girls can explore their inner heroes—speedboat racing to the rescue à la 007 in the Arena’s AquaZone, flying a fleet of drones to deliver a lifesaving vaccine to an Amazonian forest, fighting aliens in the Arena’s unique digital battlefields or conquering mountains on the Crawler zone.

Fast-paced variety is the name of the game at SkyZone (skyzone. com) including ultimate dodgeball, SkyJoust, skyline, zipline and Toddler Zone. As the name suggests, kids are in charge at Kids Rule Parties

(kidsruleparties.com). Open in various NJ locations, partygoers can play glow ball, human bumper balls, laser tag and inflatable handball.

Kids will enjoy birthdays of T-Rex proportions at Field Station: Dinosaurs (jerseydinos.com), an outdoor family attraction that combines science with movie-worthy thrills in a Paleozoic world of awe and learning.

GETTING CRAFTY AND PAMPERED

Messy hands and big imaginations are encouraged at Clay Paper Scissors Studio (claypaperscissorsstudio.com), a unique crafting destination offering hands-on creative parties for children 5+, including slime-tastic fun, jewelry making, tie-dye and pop art collage.

At Tie Dye Town Events (tiedyetown.com), kids of all ages get to rotate through various arts and crafts stations such as making their own tie-dye T-shirt or other clothing article, decorating their own jewelry box and creating spin art pictures. Party with them in one of their locations in Englewood, New City, NY and Manhattan, or let them bring the party to you. Birthday parties are works of art at the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey (artcenternj.org). Choose your art medium and the center will customize a themed project of your choice. Held on Sundays for kids ages five and older, the Visual Art Center’s parties feature an instructor, assistant and art supplies; you bring the refreshments, decorations and other extras.

At The Center for Contemporary Art (ccabedminster.org) choose from several creative and educational art projects, ideal for kids, ages 5 to 15 years old. CCA parties, held on Saturdays and Sundays, consist of an art-centric activity with an art teacher and art supplies; you bring

The Art of Cooking

The Other Adventure

Field Station: Dinosaurs

Escapology

the birthday extras. Glitter & Glam in Paramus, Jersey City and West Nyack, NY, (glitterandglamspa.com) is a salon and spa where girls can indulge in mani-pedis and facials while wearing comfy robes. At Flora’s Cottage (florascottages.com) teens and tweens celebrate their special day by making their own facemasks, bath bombs or lip balms in the shop’s pretty, intimate setting.

CALLING ALL BRAINIACS

If educational, entertaining, science-driven options are what you’re seeking, these birthday celebrations earn high marks. Designed for kids 3-12, Mad Science of Northeast NJ’s (northeastnj.madscience.org) offers diverse packages with optional add-ons. The Mad Lab’s two-hour experience has interactive stations, a unique show and a party room for food and cake. They also offer no-mess, no-stress home parties with spectacular chemical reactions, rocket launches, plasma balls and more.

Do your kids want to put their wits to the test while living out stories of mystery, magical lore and exploration? Then The Other Tales Escape Rooms (theothertales.com) are definitely a smart choice. Solve puzzles and explore stories in worlds that are immersive with authentic settings, logical puzzles and surprising storylines. All games (none scary or physically strenuous) are private. They’re designed with adults and teens in mind but the staff can set up easier versions of the games if you have 10- to 12-year-olds.

At Escapology Holmdel (escapology.com), you can choose from six games of varying difficulties and party packages to test your birthday group. Search for clues, solve puzzles and escape within 60 minutes.

Moms Share

Their Favorite Kids’ Birthday Party Ideas

I did a bubble party—bubble stations, machine, bubble performer, big rolls of bubble wrap to pop all over the yard, kiddie pool bubbles and you could add foam to the yard.

— SABRINA DEUTSCH KRAWCZYK, WESTWOOD

“When my boys were little we did train rides from Ridgewood to Ramsey. Kids generally ride free. We handed out whistles and conductor hats, then got off in Ramsey for pizza and cake before riding back. The kids loved it!”

— JAMIE HOLLENDER CARIDDI, RIDGEWOOD

“My husband and I upcycled an outdoor playhouse and turned it into the ‘Encanto’ casita for our daughter’s 3rd birthday. Mint Sprig (mintsprigdecor. com) helped create the balloon arch and decorations to add to the casita.”

— SAMANTHA LESCHAK, HILLSDALE

Our fossil dig party was originally supposed to be in our backyard, but we had to move it due to a rain forecast. The Tenafly Nature Center was an ideal backup plan as they have a huge, covered outdoor space that was the perfect setting for our prehistoric party. We provided the food and decorations and an outside vendor, Dinosaurs Rock (dinosaursrockprograms.com), provided the exhibits and fossil dig.

— NICOLE BERDE, HILLSDALE

Clay Paper Scissors Studio

Curbside Confections

Spring is finally in the air so grab the kids and get out to one of these events to celebrate!

April 16

Bloomfest!

Branch Book Park in Newark will never look more beautiful! Celebrate the cherry blossom season during a family fun day filled with Japanese cultural demos, kids’ activities, live music, a crafters marketplace and food. essexcountyparks.org/parks/branchbrook-park/calendar/bloomfest

May 7

Hoboken Art & Music Festival

Washington Street will be teeming with food, artists, crafters and lots of live entertainment during this annual celebration.

facebook.com/Hobokenartsfestival

April 22

Kites at the Pier

The sky above Pier Village and the Atlantic Ocean in Long Branch will be filled with dozens of high-flying kites. There will also be a public flying field where you can bring your own. skyfestivals.com/events

May 6

Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival

Bring your whole crew to the field at Skylands Stadium. Adults can sample from more than 100 craft beers, while kids can play carnival games, jump in the bounce houses and throw axes. Plus, there will be more than 20 food trucks on site. Skylandsstadium.com/foodtruck

May 29

Tour of Somerville

Line the streets of downtown Somerville to watch America’s longest-running competitive cycling event. You can join the Family Fun Ride before watching the bicyclists in the 25-mile Mildred Kugler Women’s Pro Race and the 50-mile Kugler-Anderson Memorial Men’s Pro Race speed by. tourofsomerville.com

April 29

Rock & Roll Steampunk Fair

Victoriana meets the Industrial Revolution during this day filled with live music, artisan vendors, street performers and general steampunk shenanigans in Washington Borough. washingtonbid.org/rock-n-rollsteampunk-fair

April 29 & 30 Renaissance Faire

The Village Green in Smithville will be transformed into the Shire of Smithville in the heart of the English Renaissance. Fun for the whole family includes comedy, tragedy, sword fighting, dance, song, knights, jesters and more. historicsmithville.com/smithvilleevents/renaissance-faire

Through April 23

PEEPS in the Village

Peddler’s Village will be filled with more than 90 marshmallow candythemed creations during this month-plus celebration. There will be wall art, dioramas and sculptures dedicated to the beloved Easter candy. peddlersvillage.com/event/peeps-in-the-village

Don’tforget!

For more events near you or to add your own, go to njfamily.com/calendar

All events are subject to cancellation so call ahead before heading out.

Rutgers Day

Rutgers University comes alive with street fairs along College Avenue, on Busch and by the Cook/Douglass area. Think food trucks, farm animals, musical performances, arts and crafts, a farmers market, a book sale, plant sale and hundreds of local organizations for you to check out across campus. rutgers.edu/event/rutgers-day

Bamboozle Festival

Come to Bader Field in Atlantic City for a weekend filled with rock, electronic dance music, hip hop, pop and more. More than 70 bands will perform at the festival, which is back in NJ after a 10-year hiatus. There will also be amusement rides, dance and band competitions, art installations and much more. bamboozlefestival.com

April 29

Grayrock N Roll Spring Festival

Meet farm animals at Grayrock Farm Sanctuary in Clinton while shopping from vendors, eating from food trucks, getting glitter tattoos and checking out the animals up for adoption. Your kids will love seeing the new baby lamb Benjamin who was rescued. facebook.com/GrayrockFarmSanctuary/about

Gabbing Together Speech and Language Services

Evaluation and Treatment for Speech, Language and Feeding Disorders

811 Washington Rd. Ste. 2A, Parlin, NJ 732-698-7549 gabbingtogether.com

• Toddlers, Preschool, Pre-K, Kindergarten (Ages

(201) 896-0280 www.montessori-er.com

144 Boiling Springs Avenue, East Rutherford

Michele Dickson M.S., CCC-SLP, CBC NJ License #41YS00584500 Spring

973-532-6179

DoodyCalls.com/Morris-County

Celebrate Earth Day

The flowers are blooming and the sun is shining. So that means it’s spring, and it’s time to celebrate Earth Day! North Brunswick holds a celebration on April 1 at Pulda Farm. The kids can take a hayride while learning about the environment. northbrunswicknj.gov.

On April 22, the New Weis Center for Education, Arts & Recreation in Ringwood will hold its annual celebration. highlandsnaturefriends.org. Earthfriendly businesses will be the stars of the show at Cape May County Earth Day on April 22. There’ll will also be educational exhibits, kids’ activities and live entertainment. capemaycountynj. gov. Atlantic County Utilities Authority will take over Environmental Park in Egg Harbor Twp. on April 23 for interactive workshops, music, animal meet-andgreets and free workshops. acua.com.

The gardens of the Reeves-Reed Arboretum come alive with the sights and sounds of spring every weekend. On April 22 and 23, drop by the Stackhouse Education Center for a self-guided program: borrow a magnifying glass for the interactive activity where you can follow clues for a nature mystery. reeves-reedarboretum.org.

summer performing arts programs

acting

Bring your actor’s tools of body, voice and imagination as you rehearse to perform and share your amazing work on the Victoria Theater Lizzie & Jonathan Tisch Stage this summer! Experience acting, movement, voice and much more. All levels are welcome to learn and explore.

Ages: 9 – 18

Dates: Jul 10 – Aug 11

Drop-off time: 8:30AM

Program time: 9AM – 4PM

Tuition: $1,250 per student

hip hop arts & culture

In celebration of the 50th anniversary of hip hop, we’ll explore the elements of hip hop from remixing the old school and incorporating the new to exploring the culture. Students will learn hip hop history, production, emceeing, song creation and much more!

Ages: 9 – 18

Dates: Jul 10 – Aug 11

Drop-off time: 8:30AM

Program time: 9AM – 4PM

Tuition: $1,250 per student

Sign up today!

musical theater

Learn the fundamentals of musical theater including vocal technique and choreography as you spotlight all that you’ve learned with your family and friends in our summer showcase on the Victoria Theater Lizzie & Jonathan Tisch Stage this summer!

Ages: 9 – 18

Dates: Jul 10 – Aug 11

Drop-off time: 8:30AM

Program time: 9AM – 4PM

Tuition: $1,250 per student

10% sibling discount | Financial aid available! No student is turned away for financial needs. Visit njpac.org/students to learn more or scan the QR code to get started!

Generous support for Arts Training is provided, in part, by BD, Judith Bernhaut, Jennifer A. Chalsty, Judy and Stewart Colton, Toby & Lee Cooperman, Mimi and Edwin Feliciano, Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey, Horizon Foundation for New Jersey, McCrane Foundation, Inc., care of Margrit McCrane, M&T Bank, NJ Advance Media, Richmond County Savings Foundation, David & Marian Rocker, Santander, TD Charitable Foundation, Victoria Foundation, WBGO Jazz 88.3FM, Women@NJPAC & an anonymous donor.

NJ