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Holiday 2023
This Event is Presented by:
THE PARK, EMBASSY SUITES BY HILTON BERKELEY HEIGHTS AND ROUND TABLE STUDIOS
Volume 40
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suburbanchambers.org
Volume 40, Issue 6
F eatures
Chamber Hosted Annual Awards Dinner....................................................6 2023 Membership Directory.............................................................12-13 Mayors Corner........................................................................................16 Spread Holiday Cheer............................................................................20
BOARD OF DIRECTORS CO-CHAIRPERSONS: David Dietze, Peapack Private Wealth Management Marcella Gencarelli, Valley Bank VICE CHAIR BERKELEY HEIGHTS: James Kwan, Ace Pension Solutions LLC, VICE CHAIR NEW PROVIDENCE: Joseph Eberle, Joseph Eberle, Weichert Realtors VICE CHAIR SUMMIT: Roxanne Giacalone, Christie’s International Real Estate TREASURER/SECRETARY: Joseph Steiner, President Emeritus DIRECTORS: Kelly Bonventre, NJ Sharing Network Robert Davies, Davies Insurance Management May Abraham Fridel, Passion for Spices Jimmy Joseph, Mortgages By Jim Joseph Paul Kieltyka, Summit Area YMCA Roger Mehner Esq., Lindabury, McCormick, Estabrook & Cooper Kerry Mowry, Overlook Medical Center
THE COLLECTION STAFF
Published by The Suburban Chamber of Commerce Karen Fern Hadley, Executive Director Joseph Steiner, Publisher Patricia E. Meola, Contributing Editor Steven Meyer, Art Director & Layout Design E-mail us at collection@suburbanchambers.org
Direct Mailed to Every Home, Apartment and Business in: Summit • Berkeley Heights • New Providence
And Demographically Selected Single Family Homes in: Short Hills • Chatham • Mountainside • Springfield PO Box 824 • Summit, NJ 07902-0824
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Holiday 2023
Volume 40
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On Oct. 19 at Canoe Brook Country Club, the Suburban Chamber of Commerce hosted its 11th annual Tying the Communities Together Awards Dinner. The event was chaired by chamber co-chairperson Marcella Gencarelli. Missing from the event was chamber President Emeritus Joe Steiner, who received the President’s Award but was unable to attend the event. The evening’s emcee was State Sen. Jon Bramnick. Chamber Co-Chairperson, David Dietze assisted in the evenings program.
Organization of the Year is the Summit Elks
Linda Tribuna of Linda’s Creative Gifts won with the Business of the Year Award Summit’s Katie Darcy was honored with the Public Service Award
Joe Savino received the Good Neighbor Award
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Silver Service Award winner Dr. Rob Rubino
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Holiday 2023
Kasandra Pantoja’s “She is…Beautiful”
“Art for the Heart and Soul” has opened at Overlook Medical Center. Continuing through Feb. 4, the show is curated in partnership with Art in the Atrium, Inc. (ATA), whose dedication to Black artists has cultivated careers of artists including Alonzo Adams, Leroy Campbell and Bisa Butler. Art displayed is for sale at the Overlook Auxiliary Gift Shop, and funds raised will support high-risk maternal health patients at the HealthStart Clinic at Overlook. The exhibition features works from artists including Amber Koko Allen, Jamaal Bonnette, Tasha Branham, Gasby Brown, Sherell Chillik, Antoinette EllisWilliams, Milez Estelle, Maria Estrela, Bo Vine Hawkins, Michael Hines, Anthony Jackson, Gary Knox, Cathleen McCoy Bristol, Markiea Munford, Jamarr Neyland, Yvonne Onque, Kasandra Pantoja, Ron Powell, Cynthia Purdie, Martryce Roach,
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Jacqui Rocker, Timothy Simmons, Veronica Spruill, Marcel Stewart, Nettie Thomas, Toni Thomas, Denise Toney, Gwen Verner, Lydia Watson, Les Floyd, Fin'es Scott, Ife East, Malaika Favorite, Mansa Mussa, Wannetta Phillips and Stephen Ellis. ATA curators Gwendolyn Barrington Jackson and Simone Renee Craig said, “Art is the universal language. It speaks to the heart and soul of all humanity. In truth, we believe it is the healing force in life. The works we have selected to be a part of this exhibit are evocations of the heart and soul of the artists attempting to connect to the heart and soul of all who view their work.” ATA is a Black-led, nonprofit founded in Morristown in 1991. For information visit artintheatrium.org.
The exhibit is sponsored by the Overlook Auxiliary, a charitable organization that supports Overlook Medical Center with volunteering and fundraising efforts. Founded in 1916, the Auxiliary has approximately 200 active members and has contributed more than $20.7 million since its inception. For details, visit oaux.org.
“My Doc” by Lydia Watson
The “Art at Overlook” exhibits rotate every three months and are open daily for viewing between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m.
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Motion” by Fin’es Scott
suburbanchambers.org
SANTA CLAUS SHOP OPENS ITS DOORS FOR 57 TH YEAR For the 57th consecutive year, the Santa Claus Shop will open its doors to provide complimentary holiday shopping. The Shop serves more than 400 low-income families and senior citizens from Summit, New Providence, Berkeley Heights and other local communities. This year’s shop will be held at Summit’s St. John’s Lutheran Church. Families will be offered shopping hours by invitation only during the first week of December. The Santa Claus Shop is chaired by Summit residents Michelle Kalmanson, Alison MacMillan, Katie Orr and Elizabeth Somerlot, and co-chaired by Jen Adel, Amanda Darnowski, Jenny Groves and Corinne White. The Shop exists solely dependent upon donations and volunteers. With monetary donations from area residents, local organizations
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and businesses, volunteers can purchase the gifts that allow less fortunate neighbors to experience the joy of holiday giving without financial burden. To keep the holiday spirit alive for local residents in need, the Santa Claus Shop chairwomen ask the community to consider giving. Checks may be made payable to SHIP, with Santa Claus Shop noted on the memo line, and mailed to the Santa Claus Shop, P.O. Box 119, Summit 07902. Make online donations via summitsantaclausshop.com.
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Holiday 2023
Volume 40
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suburbanchambers.org
Come visit us at our new Summit location on the 2nd floor of 426 Springfield Avenue above Marigolds.
T
he recent cutting of a giant blue ribbon marked what many in the community have been eagerly awaiting -- the reopening of the Summit YMCA, at the corner of Maple and Broad streets. Speeches from Mayor Nora Radest, Board of Trustees Chair Maria Brugg, Capital Campaign Chair and Board of Trustee Robert Radest and President and CEO Paul Kieltyka reminded those in attendance how integral the Summit YMCA is to the community. Day in and day out, the Summit YMCA stands as a beacon for inclusivity, fostering a sense of belonging for people from all walks of life. With new fitness centers, community lounges, a spacious Teen Center with robust programming, a Kid Zone and more, the Summit YMCA is poised to be a place of neighborly support and camaraderie for the next 100 years. This was celebrated in full at the grand reopening, and Suburban Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors members Jim Kwan and May Abraham Fridel were among the guests who enjoyed taking part in the event. Mr. Kieltyka also serves on the chamber board. To learn more, visit thesay.org/belong.
suburbanchambers.org
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Holiday 2023
TOWNSHIP SHINES SPOTLIGHT ON ITS HISTORIC HOMES The volunteers organizing the Berkeley Heights Historic Preservation Committee Vintage Home Project are looking for homes around the township that are 100 years or older and maintain at least part of their architectural integrity.
Organizers said that taken into account are the historical significance of the house, the surrounding property, location, outbuildings or cultural aspects. If qualified, the homeowner will be presented with an engraved sign that features the year the home was built and the address. Because this is not part of the National Register of Historic Places, homes with signs will not be subject to any type of regulation. Applications, which are available on the township’s website, may be submitted to the Berkeley Heights Historic Preservation Committee via hpcofbh@gmail.com or mailed to: Berkeley Heights Township – Administration, 29 Park Ave., Berkeley Heights 07922, Attn: BH Historic Preservation Committee. The group is an advisory committee created to assist the township's tracking and analyzing of current historic landmarks, make recommendations for the preservation and acquisition of historic sites, assist in projects for historic preservation, obtain preservation funding via grants and sponsor fundraising activities pertaining to historic preservation. Members meet monthly in accordance with a schedule established in January, and meetings may be open to the public at the sole discretion of the committee. The advisory group consists of a minimum of five members and a maximum of nine, and volunteers are appointed by the mayor for a three-year term with the advice and consent of the council. A governing body member is appointed via resolution of the council. Currently serving on the preservation committee are John Foster, Ron Weinger, Amalia Canovas, Camille Mazzucco, Louisa Grossman, Brian Bernstein, Sean Kane, Lisa DiMichelle and Karen Cassels.
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908 Enterprises - Digital Marketing
(908) 516-0776
Ciel Power LLC
(201) 632-3463
Family Promise
(908) 273-1100
Ace Pension Solutions, LLC
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Citizens Bank - Berkeley Heights
(908) 464-0860
Farmers Insurance- Hector Lugo Agency
(908) 527-1700
Adam M. Brown Law Group LLC, The
(908) 379-9731
Citizens Bank - New Providence
(908) 286-1075
First Energy
(973) 401-8497
Adams Fine Clothing
(908) 665-0800
Citizens Bank - Summit
(201) 286-4926
Five Star Painting of Summit
(908) 358-4782
Adobe
(408) 753-5826
City of Summit, The
(908) 277-9400
Floor & Decor
(908) 514-5689
AFC Urgent Care Short Hills
(973) 671-5350
Classic Construction Service
(908) 273-5252
Four Monkeys Bistro
(908) 483-2288
AIP Mobility Plus
(973) 607-3211
Clear Point Designs
(917) 797-7923
Friends of the Summit Free Public Library , The (908) 337-5402
Allsure Insurance Brokerage
(917) 533-9564
Club Z! Tutoring Services
(908) 460-1855
FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers
(848) 482-7230
American Pension LLC
(908) 757-5151
Coldwell Banker Realty
(908) 522-1800
Gabriele Fitness and Performance
(908) 464-4441
Americans for Fair Taxation
(908) 578-4975
Colonial Appliance
(908) 665-1212
Gearhart Law
(908) 273-0700
Ani Ramen House & MOCHINUT
(908) 679-8157
Color Me Mine
(201) 966-4017
General Plumbing Supply
(732) 752-2020
Arc of Union County, The
(973) 315-0000
Comparion Insurance Agency
(908) 585-1372
Goodman's Deli
(908) 898-0900
Art Of The Arch & Aesthetics LLC
(973) 715-5152
Connection, The
(908) 273-4242
GRA Architect, Inc
(908) 464-0106
Bake Bakery
(908) 522-9270
Cove Carpet One Floor & Home
(908) 273-0220
Grand Summit Hotel, The
(908) 273-3000
Barth's Market
(908) 464-8555
CP Travel Advisor - LetsGlobetrot.com
(908) 517-1107
Graphic Imagery, Inc.
(908) 755-2882
Bassett Associates
(908) 277-1176
Haven Savings Bank- Berkeley Heights
(908) 790-0770
(908) 665-7997
Berkeley Cleaners
(908) 464-9859
CWI.Design - Creative Wallcoverings & Interiors, Ltd.
Haven Savings Bank- Summit
(908) 522-0090
Berkeley Heights Board of Education
(908) 464-1718
Davies Insurance Management
(973) 985-9275
Home Again Design
(908) 464-8800
(908) 464-8373
Debary Inn, The
(908) 277-0005
Home For Good Dog Rescue
(908) 598-8212
BHHS Fox & Roach, REALTORS
(908) 273-0400
Delicious Heights
(908) 464-3287
Hub Murray Hill by BW Premier Collection, The (908) 665-9200
BIG. (Believe, Inspire, Grow)
(908) 337-5402
Dempsey, Dempsey & Sheehan
(908) 277-0388
Jaeger Lumber
(908) 686-0073
(908) 273-4947
Dental Studio of Summit, The
(908) 273-1525
Joseph Steiner
(908) 337-9536
body align physical therapy
(646) 328-2525
Junior League of Summit
(908) 273-7344
Borough of New Providence
(908) 665-1400
Dolores CronebergerReal Estate Referral Agent
Bourne, Noll & Kenyon
(908) 277-2200
Boxcar
(908) 485-7275
Brandywine Living at Summit
(908) 522-8852
BrightStar Care
(908) 322-8200
Berkeley Heights YMCA
Blow In Blow Out
Broadway Diner, The
(908) 273-4353
Bubbakoos Burritos
(908) 922-3375
Care 1st Training Group
(908) 443-1277
Christie's International Real Estate
(908) 516-4790
Christmas Decor of NJ
(908) 303-0081
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Donna Donaldson Home
(908) 277-0400
Keller Williams Realty Premier Properties- Summit
(908) 273-2991
Don-Tre Professional Driving School, Inc
(973) 376-8118
Keys 2 Success
(908) 883-0887
Door Boy LLC
(908) 464-1440
Kitchen Expressions
(908) 273-4442
Dorey Painting Company LLC
(973) 303-2380
Kumon of Berkeley Heights
(908) 725-2857
Dr. Rosalind S. Dorlen, Clinical Psychologist (908) 522-1444
Lakeland Bank
(908) 522-6555
Dunkin' Donuts- Berkeley Heights
(908) 879-5878
Lantern Hill, an Erickson Living Community (908) 516-9136
DUXIANA
(908) 522-8200
Liberty Group, The
(908) 964-8390
Elefante Music & School For The Performing Arts (908) 464-5928
Lindabury, McCormick, Estabrook & Cooper (908) 273-1212
Elements Massage
(908) 464-1860
Linda's Creative Gifts
(908) 473-0982
Embassy Suites by Hilton Berkeley Heights (908) 897-1970
Liss Copy and Print
(908) 277-3500
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Holiday 2023
Liss Medical Arts Pharmacy
(908) 522-0111
Pearly Whites
(908) 464-6789
Summit Oaks Hospital
(908) 277-9107
Liss Music Center
(908) 273-7171
Peter Wallburg Studios
(908) 277-2078
Summit Prep
(908) 277-0128
Lois Schneider Realtor
(908) 277-1398
Piattino
(908) 219-4801
Summit Ski and Sport
(908) 277-4170
Luminous MedSpa & Salon
(908) 464-8208
Pipes of Christmas, The
(917) 584-4180
Summit Soundz Entertainment LLC
(908) 265-2169
Lyons Veterinary Hospital
(973) 283-5515
Play-PKL
(609) 200-0430
Summit Speech School
(908) 508-0111
M&T Bank - Summit
(908) 273-0122
PNC Bank
(908) 522-3441
Summit Sport and Spine LLC
(908) 263-7043
Madison Reed Inc.
(908) 739-6511
Polycarp Flowers
(908) 723-8208
Summit Tech Partners LLC
(908) 739-3102
Main Street Movers
(908) 732-3700
Primrose School of Berkeley Heights
(908) 286-0900
Summit Transcendental Meditation Program (908) 522-0820
Marco Polo Restaurant & Tavern
(908) 277-4492
Private Prep
(908) 577-2390
Sunrise of Summit
(908) 673-1400
Mind Body Wellness Center
(908) 522-1861
TAP Into Local LLC
(908) 279-0303
(908) 857-4644
Prominent Properties Sothebys International Realty
(908) 273-8808
Taylor Law Group LLC
(908) 219-7771
Monk's Home Improvements
(973) 635-7900
PuroClean Restoration Services
(908) 577-9120
Terrana Orthodontics
(908) 838-9220
MORTGAGES BY JIM JOSEPH
(718) 812-7798
QuickSilver Counseling Center
(888) 477-8941
Thomas Chase LLC
(917) 549-6472
Rad Theatricals
(973) 713-2543
Minuteman Press
Mr. Handyman of S. Orange/ Westfield/Scotch Plains & Metuchen
Timothy Lowe, LLC
(908) 499-0340
(908) 259-4080
Reeves-Reed Arboretum
(908) 273-8787
TLC Computer Services
(877) 926-8852
My Gym Children's Fitness Center
(908) 665-2122
Regal Bank- Summit
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Total Home Cleaning
(908) 273-8774
Natale's Summit Bakery
(908) 277-2074
Richard V. Carney Electrical Contractors, Inc. (908) 277-6961
Township of Berkeley Heights
(908) 464-2700
New Jersey Dance Theatre Ensemble
(908) 723-5622
Robinwood Kitchens Inc.
(908) 665-5900
Tri-Force Energy LLC
(201) 298-0218
New Providence Board of Education
(908) 464-9050
(908) 709-7501
(908) 665-1818
(908) 273-6565
Union County College
New Providence Chiropractic
ROSEN KELLY CONWAY Architecture & Design
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New Providence Dentistry
SAGE Eldercare
United Way of Greater Union County
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Schroth and Lorenson Jewelers
Valley Bank
New Providence Fuel
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Skin Deep Salon and Spa
Vibrance For Life
NJ Sharing Network Noke and Heard, LLP, CPA's
(908) 277-4145
(908) 273-9121
(908) 522-8118
(908) 737-4190
Visual Arts Center of New Jersey
Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child
Small Business Development Center at Kean University
(973) 206-1725
(908) 514-9654
(908) 280-1813
Smith + Schwartzstein LLC
Vivid Stage
Office Evolution
(908) 273-4200
(908) 277-1200
(908) 522-0550
Smythe Volvo Inc.
Weichert Realtors- Summit
Office Tavern Grill, The
(646) 512-2196
(908) 868-4800
(848) 205-9658
Snapology Summit NJ
Weichert Realtors- Joseph Eberle
One Cerb
(908) 273-1084
(888) 817-3013
(908) 790-0700
Oratory School of Summit, NJ
Stony Hill Players
Wharton Institute for the Performing Arts
(908) 522-1700
(908) 277-4224
(908) 464-8008
Suburban Chambers of Commerce
Winberie's Restaurant and Bar
Our House Inc
(908) 738-2170
(908) 464-0644
(908) 522-2000
Summit Area YMCA
Window Tailors
Overlook Medical Center
(908) 273-3025
(908) 224-7997
(908) 380-0644
Summit Board of Education
Windows & Doors by the Men with Tools
Passion for Spices
(866) 786-7123
(908) 499-8707
(908) 598-0155
Payless Rugs
Summit Dental Partners
Woodward Properties, REALTORS
(908) 277-6100
(908) 315-3165
(908) 363-1825
Summit Downtown, Inc.
YogaSix
Peace of Mind Yoga
(908) 522-0077
(732) 462-6019
(908) 598-1717
Summit Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
You Can Be Found
Peapack Private Wealth Management
(908) 273-8665
(908) 277-8584
(908) 273-2890
Summit Frame & Art, Inc.
Zadie's Nurturing Den
Peapack-Gladstone Bank
(908) 277-6886
ZenBusiness
(512) 765-4985
Volume 40
Summit Hearing Aid Center
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Virginia Jordan
suburbanchambers.org
T
he holiday season is in full swing in downtown Summit, where Summit Downtown, Inc. (SDI) will be presenting the return of family events including Celebrate in Summit, Carriages & Carolers and The HillTop Elf Scavenger Hunt. Summit VISA Gift Cards, accepted at more than 150 businesses city-wide, are also available this holiday season to encourage the support of local businesses. For details on events and the VISA Gift Cards (which are available year round), visit summitdowntown.org.
HIDDEN ELVES, NOT ONLY ON SHELVES The HillTop Elf Scavenger Hunt runs through Dec. 23, for adults and children. Elves are hidden within more than 100 different downtown Summit businesses or in storefront windows, and shoppers and their families are invited to wander downtown in search of them. No purchase is necessary. Scavenger hunt forms are available at all participating businesses or may be downloaded from the SDI website. Participating businesses are listed on the form, where there is space for shoppers to identify where they saw the elf at each business.
Completed forms must be turned in by 4 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 23, to be entered to win a $500 Summit VISA Gift Card. They may be returned to any participating business. In addition, 10 runners up will win $100 gift cards. Winning completed forms will be drawn on Tuesday, Jan. 2. Winners will be notified by email and phone.
SHOP, DINE, CELEBRATE On Saturday, Dec. 23, from 1 to 4 p.m., all are invited to shop, dine and celebrate downtown. Free horse and carriage rides will run from 1 to 4 at Lyric Park (corner of Beechwood Road and Bank Street). At The Promenade at 426 Springfield Ave., an ice carver will be making holiday sculptures from 1 to 3 p.m., and the sculptures will remain at The Promenade for as long as weather allows. DJ Mr. Socks will be spinning holiday tunes, and live music will fill the sidewalks. New this year, Soiree NJ will present an opportunity for winter princesses including take home crafts for all ages, from 1 to 4 p.m. The Promenade. All activities are free of charge. On Dec. 2, 9, 16 and 23, all are invited to take a break from your downtown shopping to enjoy holiday music, strolling
carolers and brass musicians, and free horse and carriage rides from 1-4. pm Saturdays, December 2, 9, 16 and 23. The rides run until 4, but the line may need to end earlier to ensure the horse leaves on time.
FREE HOLIDAY SHOPPER PARKING Courtesy of the City of Summit and Summit Downtown, Inc., there will be free holiday shopper parking from Dec. 9-31 at 90-minute meters on-street (time limits will be enforced), in the Bank Street Lot and on the first floor of the Tier Garage on Springfield Avenue.
BUY ONE, GET ONE VISA CARD SDI this year is also sponsoring a Summit VISA Gift Cards Giveaway Program. The buy one, get one gift card giveaway* will run on Dec. 1, 8 and 15 from 1-4. For every $50 in Summit VISA Gift Cards purchased, receive a $10 bonus gift card. Maximum reward is $100 per person, per transaction (*while supplies last, only on specified dates and times. Only in person at 18 Bank St., Suite 101. Not valid for online purchases). Summit Downtown, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the on-going development and promotion of the business community in downtown.
REMEMBERING A BELOVED LOCAL BUSINESS OWNER Robin Reinhardt, a cherished husband, father, grandfather and local business owner, passed away surrounded by love on Oct. 25, 2023. Rob was known by many as the owner of Robinwood Kitchens, located in Berkeley Heights. Originally, Rob focused on refinishing furniture, which eventually led to refinishing cabinetry. This passion flourished into Robinwood Kitchens, created by Rob and his wife Martha in 1976. Robinwood Kitchens has been in business for almost 50 years, due to Rob’s tireless efforts to create beautiful kitchens and bathrooms for h i s clients. His motto was, “Always do what you said you were going to do, and be there when you said you were going to be there.”
In 2011, his daughter Rebecca joined the family business and has fully taken over since Rob’s retirement in 2021. She credits everything she has learned about the business, managing clients and designing functional spaces, to spending time working next to her father for more than 10 years. Beyond his business, Rob was a man of many talents. He was always a loyal fan of his alma mater’s football team, the Rutgers Scarlet Knights (in good times and in bad). Fishing and spending time on his boat down the Jersey Shore were also favorite pastimes. Upon his retirement, he also took up watercolor painting. He amazed his family by creating many beautiful paintings as gifts, which will forever be cherished. The Reinhardt family would like to sincerely thank the loving support from current and former clients during this difficult time. While Rob is no longer with us, his family believes his memory will live on through the work at Robinwood Kitchens – past, present and future.
suburbanchambers.org
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Holiday 2023
SUMMIT RESIDENTS HELP JESPY "GO BIG " , a South Orangebased non-profit that has supported adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities for 45 years, is the recipient of $1 million from long-time Summit residents Judy and Ken Peskin. The gift supports the organization’s campaign to build residential units for clients. The “Go Big for JESPY” campaign will also create vocational, clinical and program spaces, a new library and technology center, and expand existing health, wellness and recreational facilities. “When we began planning our campaign, we knew it would take confidence, determination, incredible philanthropic support and many cheerleaders,” said Audrey Winkler, JESPY’s executive director. “Judy and Ken were one of the first to say, ‘We’re in!’”
Mr. Peskin grew up in The Bronx. A graduate of The City College of New York and Harvard Business School, he joined a supermarket company that later became known as Pathmark, and eventually became the CEO. His post-supermarket business initiatives have included the turnaround operation of E&B Marine, his own bookstore in Westfield and Workbench Furniture. He continues to work as a business advisor and volunteer. The Peskins have three daughters and six grandchildren. For details about the fundraising campaign, visit jespyhouse.org/gobig or contact Amy Engel at 973-437-3770 or aengel@jespy.org.
Mrs. Peskin grew up in Maplewood and attended Columbia High School, graduated from Middlebury College and received her graduate degree in education from Teachers College. She taught French and Spanish for 27 years. Her journey with JESPY began decades ago, as a committed donor who then became and remains an inspiring board member and dedicated volunteer. She also volunteers at the ESL program at The Connection in Summit and tutors at Literacy Volunteers of New Jersey.
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suburbanchambers.org
As the holiday season approaches, I extend my warmest wishes to all of you in Summit and our neighboring towns. Looking forward into 2024, I am filled with optimism for what lies ahead. The coming year holds the possibilities of new opportunities, challenges and achievements for all of us. On a personal note, as I approach the final months of my tenure as Summit's mayor, I would like to express my deep gratitude for the trust and support you have shown me over the years. Serving as mayor has been a great honor. Together, we have faced challenges, celebrated successes and worked tirelessly to make Summit a wonderful place to live, work and raise our families. May the new year usher in an era of peace, prosperity and happiness for you and your loved ones.
First and foremost, I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday. Economic Development Committee members have met twice since our last Council meeting to continue to work on the edits to the Technical Review Committee, as well as the website page entitled "How to do Business in Berkeley Heights." Please take a look at the page at https:// berkeleyheights.gov/1547/9734/Doing-Business-in-BH . But the most exciting EDC activity was New Jersey News 12 visiting seven of our businesses one recent Friday between 5 and 8 a.m. We are also in the process of working with our media consultant to promote each of the twominute segments to help launch Small Business Saturday, and the start of #UClovessmallBiz began on Black Friday. Please be on the lookout for these totes at Winter Walk. Most importantly, shop local!
Happy holidays!
Also in our future economic development plans, I want to congratulate Liza on becoming Film Ready in New Jersey. This designation will allow the township to attract film crews and charge
Mayor Nora Radest Summit
Angie D. Devanney Mayor Berkeley Heights
We are looking forward to a festive holiday season ahead in New Providence! We have new decorations around town, and our local businesses are excited. Please support local, and shop New Providence. We have upcoming exciting family-friendly events and activities planned, including our Annual Night of a Thousand Stars Community Tree Lighting on Friday, Dec. 1, at 7 p.m. in Centennial Park. Then come have breakfast with Santa on Sunday, Dec. 3, at the William Paca Club, located at 1 William Paca Pl., sponsored by the New Providence Lions and the William Paca Club, with all proceeds benefitting the New Providence Education Foundation. The holiday season can be especially challenging and a stressful time for many of our friends and neighbors. Please be kind. Please be patient. And please be generous if you are able, to help support local families in need this holiday season so everyone can have joy and peace this time of year. Organizations that support local such as our CSA – csanewprovidence.org/home --and LINC Food Pantry – lincnj.org. -- help ease difficult times. If you need help, please contact them. If you are able to donate, all contributions are graciously appreciated. If you are in crisis, please call 988. You are not alone. Thank you to our outstanding Borough Council, our dedicated administration, employees and staff, all our very generous businesses, our selfless volunteers and to all of you for making our community such an incredible place to live and to work. We look forward to seeing you around town, and encourage everyone to please support local and SHOP NP! I wish you peace, joy, happiness and a safe, happy and healthy holiday season. Mayor Al Morgan New Providence
suburbanchambers.org
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Holiday 2023
The newest addition to Summit’s Design District is under construction, is scheduled to open this winter -- and is going to be a destination for anyone planning kitchen or bathroom upgrades. Kohler and General Plumbing Supply, Inc., are joining forces to bring shoppers an experience GPS staff describe as “so much more than a store.” Additional brands carried include Ann Sacks tile and stone, Kallista and Robern. Custom Kohler vanities are also available. Appointments are recommended at showrooms, which are open Mondays through Saturdays. For kitchen and bath fixtures to sinks, lighting and HVAC – even plumbing, heating and industrial supplies – customers will need to travel no further than 407 Springfield Ave., most recently home to Liss, which has moved around the corner onto Maple Street.
Berkeley Heights has recently received four grants, which will be used towards infrastructure, historic preservation, recreation and tree planting. The awards are as follows: u New Jersey Department of Transportation Local Aid 2024: $346,690 has been awarded to the township to be used towards drainage work and road reconstruction on Bristol Court, Balmoral Drive and Lawrence Drive. That work will begin and be completed in 2024 and augmented with township capital as/if needed. u “Preserve Union County” Grant Program, Union County: $40,000 will go towards paying for the creation of a full set of construction documents for stabilization and restoration work for the historic Littell-Lord Farmstead museum building. u Union County Kids Recreation Trust Grant: $30,300 for recreational improvements u Greening Union County: This $4,000 matching grant will be
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used to plant trees on township property. “Our township is knocking it out of the park in terms of grant awards,” said Mayor Angie Devanney. “This is less money out of taxpayers’ pockets and less township debt to pay for necessary infrastructure improvements to our local road and drainage systems, expansion and improvement of our local recreational programming and facilities, and preserving our tree canopy.” She said, “In addition, no taxpayer money is being used to pay for the restoration of the Littell-Lord Farmstead, an important piece of Berkeley Heights history. This project is being done completely with grant funds and private donations – a preservation project that would never be possible were it not for multiple grants from the state and county. Thank you to everyone who helped on these grant applications – from our Grants Committee volunteers to Recreation staff, and our Zoning and Engineering departments.”
The topic for December’s First Friday will be "Issues Impacting Employers & the Economy as We Head Into 2024." The monthly event is hosted by the Suburban Chambers of Commerce and open to all. Tom Bracken, the president and CEO of the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce, will be the featured speaker. In its recent annual Top States for Doing Business List, CNBC ranked New Jersey as the most improved state, climbing 23 places to No. 19. “This is certainly a reason to celebrate, and New Jersey is moving in the right direction,” Mr. Bracken noted, “however, there is more work to do.” He said that during his presentation, he will discuss why the state made significant advancements on the CNBC list – and what needs to be done to maintain that ranking or place even higher. He will also highlight the N.J. Chamber's six-point legislative agenda, which is designed to assist companies of all sizes and, if implemented, build on the state's recent economic momentum and successes. How the 2023 election results might impact employers will also be covered, and Mr. Bracken will also look ahead to issues important to the business community in the 2024 Presidential and 2025 gubernatorial campaigns. First Friday will take place on Friday, Dec. 1, with registration and check in at 8 a.m. The program begins at 8:20. Pre-registration is appreciated, and a continental breakfast will be provided. The cost is $20 for Suburban Chambers members and $25 for prospective members, and the event will take place in New Providence at The Hub Murray Hill, 535 Central Ave., the former Murray Hill Inn. For details or to register, contact chamber director Karen Hadley, khadley@ suburbanchambers.org or 908-522-1700.
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W
hen the National Interscholastic Lacrosse Coaches Association inducted its 2023 Hall of Fame Class in early November in Roslyn, N.Y., among the inductees was Summit High School’s Jim Davidson. According to Joe Baccarella, NILCA vice president, "Each of these men has established himself among the best ever to have coached the game of lacrosse." "With the selection of these coaches, winners of over 4,000 games in total and who have made an impact on countless young men, we are beyond excited,” said John Kenney , Hall of Fame committee chair. With 441 career wins to his credit, Hilltopper Coach Davidson has a career that includes: NJ Tournament of Champions 2009, 2010; State Champions 05, 09, 10,11,15, 18, 19, 21, 23; 18-time Conference Champions; 13-time County Champions; New Jersey Lacrosse Hall of Fame Member; five-time Coach of the Year; 2007 National Senior All Star Coach; and New Jersey state record of 68 consecutive wins. The NILCA is dedicated to the support and education of secondary school lacrosse coaches. Mr. Kenney said, “The NILCA applauds those coaches whose mentorship and groundbreaking coaching careers have left an indelible mark on the high school game of lacrosse.” For information, visit nilca.com.
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Holiday 2023
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The Summit Policemen’s Benevolent Association #55 (PBA) and Summit Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association #54 (FMBA) are hosting their annual United States Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots holiday collection through Friday, Dec. 15. To participate, bring new, unwrapped toys to the donation boxes during normal business hours: Summit Police Headquarters at City Hall, the Summit Fire Department and the Summit Community Center are among the drop off sites. The toys collected through this program hosted by Summit first responders are distributed to children throughout Union County and the surrounding area.
For the 57th consecutive year, the Santa Claus Shop will open its doors to provide complimentary holiday shopping, by invitation. The Shop serves more than 400 low-income families and senior citizens from Summit, New Providence, Berkeley Heights and other local communities. The Shop exists solely dependent upon donations and volunteers. Checks may be made payable to SHIP, with Santa Claus Shop noted on the memo line, and mailed to the Santa Claus Shop, P.O. Box 119, Summit 07902. Make online donations via summitsantaclausshop.com.
The Berkeley Heights PBA is asking members of the community to show their holiday spirit by bringing a new, unwrapped toy to the police department at 29 Park Ave. before Friday, Dec. 1. The collected items will be forwarded to embrella, a New Jersey foster care non-profit. The Berkeley Heights Police Benevolent Association is focused on maintaining and securing a good working environment for its members. The local PBA also supports civic groups and organizations including The Special Olympics, and provides aid to its members during times of illness or injury.
New Providence PBA Local 132 is hosting a coat drive on behalf of Jersey Cares, with the collection in the borough taking place through Friday, Jan 5. Members of the community are asked to bring new or gently-used coats to the New Providence Police Department lobby at 360 Elkwood Ave. and place them in the bins. Jersey Cares staff noted, “We only accept new and/or gently-used coats, and we discourage donating stained or dirty coats. Please do not donate hats, gloves, scarves or any other clothing items.”
Brandywine Living at Summit is collecting new, with tags clothing to spread holiday cheer to New Jersey veterans.
Donations will be accepted through Dec. 14 at Brandywine, 41 Springfield Ave., seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. For details, call 908-522-8852.
The Berkeley Heights community is gearing up for the third annual Light Up the Heights Luminary Project. Benefiting the Berkeley Heights Gardeners, Boy Scout Troops 68 & 368, the Berkeley Heights Rescue Squad, Church of the Little Flower, the Heights Kindness Team, Girl Scout Troop 55 and the Rotary Club of Berkeley Heights, this year's luminary project has as its goal to foster community spirit and camaraderie while contributing to worthwhile causes. Neighborhood captains begin canvassing in late November, distributing flyers and order forms. Luminaries, in packages of 10 at $25 per package, include classic white paper bags, candles and sand. Residents can expect delivery no later than Dec. 23. Orders may also be placed at BHRotaryLuminaries.com.
Residents are invited to share in Summit’s Night of Light on Dec. 24 by making a purchase through the Summit Luminary Fund. For details or to learn who your neighborhood captain is, email summitluminaryfundfranciecho@ gmail.com. Proceeds benefit more than a dozen local charities.
Sought are men’s and women’s sweatshirts, sweat pants, zip and button sweaters, long sleeved T’s and polos, and women’s stretch pants. Sizes up to 2XL are preferred.
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Holiday 2023