Suburban Essex

February 2024

Celebrating 20 Years!

Suburban Essex

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Throughout her work as a realtor, she worked towards her long-term goal of becoming an educator by pursuing part-time and substitute teaching positions while completing her degree. Debra went on to earn a master’s degree in childhood education with a minor in special education from NYU. She taught in the NYC public schools for a few years before she transitioned to teaching in the suburbs.

She was exposed to urban and suburban settings with and without resources and curriculum, which in turn taught her to be extremely resourceful. She utilized curriculum in multiple schools, created lesson plans for multiple grade levels, worked with educators and learned from experts in her field, all contributing towards her training which has culminated in selecting top educators to tutor students in need of supplemental education.

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TABLE of CONTENTS Suburban Essex FEBRUARY 2024

WINTER 2023

VOL. 32 NO. 1

David J. Black FOUNDER & CEO

Cathleen M. Black PRESIDENT & COO

Michael J. Reidy ART DIRECTOR

Vanice Gage Donegan BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

33 10 Inside Essex 12 Local Heroes 12 Livingston Resident’s Alzheimers’ Advocacy Leads to Receipt 13 Glen Ridge Resident’s Passion for Women’s Rights

25 Focus on Education 25 Experience French Immersion at the FIAF Montclair Preschool 26 Focus on Education Resource Directory

33 COVER Life, Hair, Happiness Shag86 20th Anniversary

36 100 Years and Over $1 Million Contributions Kiwanis Club of Caldwell-West Essex

38 Local Gift Guide Find the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gifts

40 Art of Essex Ted Papoulas---When the Mundane Becomes Magical

40 42 Summer Camp 2024

42 How to Choose a Summer Camp Your Kids Will Love and You Approve 43 Summer Camp & Activities 2024

46 Senior Living 46 It’s Time to Care About LongTerm Care 47 U.S News & World Report Names Job Haines Home as Best Choice in Senior Living 47 Recognizing Macular Degeneration

48 Health and Wellness 48 Reduce Stress for a Healthier Heart 50 Stemming the Tide of Nearsightedness 51 The Importance of Orthodontic Screening at an Early Age

52 Dining Guide 55 Best of Essex Resource Directory 57 La Famiglia Spotlight 57 Be Well Psychotherapy Spotlight 57 Dieci Lifestyle Spa Spotlight

58 Diamond Minds INVINCIBLE 8 | Suburban Essex | February 2024

46

Cynthia Burns Sue Baldini Kimberly Blaker Barry Farber Janis Hashe Christine Maxwell Jackie Schatell CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Amy Schwartz Donna Stanul REGIONAL SALES DIRECTORS

Daniel Epstein SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER

Mitchell Black Heidi Dommasch Robert Leo Murray GUARDIAN ANGELS

CIRCULATION 34,000 U.S. POSTAL SERVICE MAILED TO SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES IN: Caldwell, Cedar Grove, Essex Fells, Fairfield, Livingston, Montclair, North Caldwell, Glen Ridge, Roseland, West Orange, Upper Montclair, Verona, West Caldwell

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Suburban Essex is published by Vicinity Media Group, 184 S. Livingston Avenue, Suite 9-303, Livingston, NJ 07039. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication can not be reproduced either in whole or in part without the consent of the publisher. Vicinity Media Group assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials.

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INSIDE ESSEX

BY JACKIE SCHATELL

Chasing Tornadoes – Robert Fusari’s Homecoming Symphony

R Former Montclair Resident is Making a Global Impact

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fter graduating from McGill University in Montreal, Canada, with a degree in International Development Studies, Maya Sadhwani Nee, a 2018 Montclair High School graduate with a desire to make a difference internationally by helping others, moved to Madrid, Spain, to teach ESL to secondary school students ages 12-17. She loves living in a friendly social culture where “life is slowed down.” She says teaching ESL in another country is a great way to immerse oneself in the culture and lifestyle as more than just a tourist – and travel. “It is amazing how close and connected the countries are,” says Maya, who has already been to Porto, Portugal; Valencia, Spain; and France, since arriving there in September. She loves the job, students, colleagues, and friends she has made in Madrid and is already considering staying for another year, with help from the programs that sponsor her, NALCAP and CIEE.

10 | Suburban Essex | February 2024

obert Fusari, a Grammy-winning Music Producer and Songwriter, has returned home literally and figuratively. After retiring a few years ago, following a very successful career writing and producing hit songs for stars including Beyoncé, Whitney Houston, Destiny’s Child, Will Smith, Kelly Rowland, Britney Spears, Jessica Simpson, and Lady Gaga, Rob, a 1986 graduate of Livingston High School, was asked in 2023 by his dear friend Robin DiLauri to collaborate on a new project. Together, they created “Chasing Tornadoes,” a musical journey inspired by the “Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” which parallels their lives. The show will be performed on February 23 and 24 at Alpha Wave Studios in Whippany.

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In this captivating show, Rob and Robin bare their souls, sharing their deepest fears and hardships as they embark on a metaphorical journey down the “Yellow Brick Road.” The performance is a high-energy spectacle filled with electrifying stage presence, mesmerizing vocals, and masterful storytelling. Some of Fusari’s hits are also featured alongside newly-written rock and pop classics.

While the stories they share are their own – “Chasing Tornadoes” offers a powerful, moving, and relatable experience to the audience, as it mirrors the twists and turns of our journeys.

For future performance dates, go to Chasing-Tornadoes.com.

“LTown Stronger Together” Fundraisers are Successful

ecently, residents of Livingston rallied together for a fundraiser, as well as to support custom clothing store LikeWear, where they purchased “LTown Stronger Together” apparel and “Food Czar” hats, with 25% of the profits, totaling $1800, donated to Magen David Adom, Israel’s nonprofit emergency medical service. This wasn’t the first time the town came together so seamlessly. The fundraiser was the brainchild of Livingston’s own “Food Czar,” Heidi Blum, who worked tirelessly to help restaurants in town stay afloat during COVID and recently, again helped the town’s restaurants via a fundraiser that raised $18,704 in one week, which was matched by Michael Bloomberg, for Magen David Adom. Twentynine restaurants participated in this fundraiser by donating profits on certain days of the week. Heidi created a list shared on the Ltown Facebook page through one of her Livish Promos, and residents made it a point to dine in the highlighted restaurants on the suggested dates. Heidi says, “Livingston helped feed the community and support restaurants, a local business, and a fundraiser – all in one fell swoop.

‘We really are ‘LTown Stronger Together.’”

Livingston “Food Czar” Heidi Blum models a “LTown Stronger Together” hoodie and “Food Czar” hat from the fundraiser that raised $1,800.

INSIDE ESSEX

From left – Dylan Schatell on bass; Max Sanders on rhythm guitar and vocals; Adrian Crane on drums; Peter Tunnicliffe on lead guitar and vocals; and Emily Lossman on keyboards and vocals.

West Orange Band, Rainbow Vision, Releases New Album

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et ready to groove with Rainbow Vision as they unveil their latest seven-track album, “Dire Hydration.” Rainbow Vision explores diverse influences in this release, ranging from hard-hitting funk in ‘The Toll’ and ‘Clive’ to the metalinfused ‘Monster Bus,’ showcasing their exceptional songwriting and instrumental skills. Brace yourself for the epic journey of ‘Point Nemo,’ and join the sing-along to the radio-friendly pop of ‘Kool-Aid.’ Rainbow Vision navigates the boundaries between alt-rock, progressive, and funk throughout the album. Drawing inspiration from legendary bands such as Emerson, Lake, Palmer, The Adolescents, Frank Zappa, and Bootsie Collins, their sound pays homage to the greats. The talented bandmates, all seniors from West Orange High School, include Adrian Crane on drums, Max Sanders on rhythm guitar and vocals, Dylan Schatell on bass, Peter Tunnicliffe on lead guitar and vocals, and Emily Lossman on keyboards and vocals.

You can listen to the album at rainbowvision.bandcamp.com/album/dire-hydration

Caldwell Resident Pens Gripping Memoir

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ngela Pisano of Caldwell, has just published her captivating memoir, “Welcome to the Family My Life as a Mob Daughter,” which explores her extraordinary upbringing in a seemingly ordinary suburban setting, while concealing a remarkable secret.

Despite knowing her father’s involvement in organized crime from a young age, Angela maintained a facade of normalcy by telling her peers that her father was a baker. Behind closed doors, her father, Larry Martin, engaged in activities such as gambling, distributing counterfeit food stamps, and running high-stakes craps games.

Angela’s book takes readers on a suspenseful journey as she unveils the hidden layers of her upbringing, depicting a family’s struggle to maintain normalcy amidst danger. Through loyalty, suspense, and unexpected twists, Angela navigates the complexities of her life, offering readers an intimate glimpse into the often-hidden lives of those connected to organized crime.

The book is available wherever books are sold. To learn more, go to mobdaughter.com.

Livingston High School Senior Makes a Sustainable Impact

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ivingston High School senior Kayla Felner is passionate about sustainability. As an employee at Invictus Pharmacy, she has created a creative solution to give used pill bottles a new purpose. Customers are encouraged to drop off their empty pill bottles in a designated bin at the store.

Kayla takes on thoroughly disinfecting and removing labels from the bottles, later sending them to a non-profit organization called Teaching Beyond the Square. The bottles are repurposed into loose parts for children in early education schools, often used for stacking and building.

Kayla was inspired to start this project in her junior year after participating in a Sustainable Summer program at Dartmouth. She created the pill bottle recycling initiative by combining her interests in sustainability and the pharmaceutical field. Kayla’s goal is to combat the issue of excessive plastic waste from the healthcare industry and prevent prescription bottles from accumulating in landfills.

If you or someone you know in Essex/Morris County are doing something interesting, send an email to Jackie.subessex@gmail.com February 2024 | SuburbanEssex.com | 11

LOCAL HEROES

Edward J. O’Malley, Chair Emeritus of the NJ Governor’s Advisory Council on Volunteerism and Community Service, Doreen Monks, award recipient and Michele Hayes, VP of Marketing at NJ Advance Media

Livingston Resident’s Alzheimers’ Advocacy Leads to Receipt of 2023 NJ State Governor’s Volunteerism Award

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Determined to advocate for early Alzheimer’s detection after her diagnosis at 62, Livingston resident Doreen Monks, now 70, was recently honored with the prestigious 2023 NJ State Governor’s Volunteerism Award for Volunteer Leadership. She is a shining example of strength in adversity, utilizing her experience and knowledge to assist others.

In 2015, Doreen, a retired neuroscience nurse practitioner, was directing the Stroke Center at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center and running a program for stroke patients in northern New Jersey when she received an early-onset Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Unlike many diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, Doreen had experienced a subtle memory decline and was fortunate to have an early diagnosis, enabling future planning and candidacy for early-onset medications.

Instead of succumbing to despair, Doreen became an advocate, spreading 12 | Suburban Essex | February 2024

BY JACKIE SCHATELL awareness about good brain health.

She emphasizes that Alzheimer’s “is not a death sentence” and underscores the steps one can take after an early diagnosis. In addition, while acknowledging Alzheimer’s as a fatal disease, Doreen shares her experience of leading a fulfilling life, emphasizing the importance of protecting the brain and addressing symptoms without stigma— offering hope to others. She highlights the need for accurate intervention and a treatment, underscoring the significance of early detection. Doreen encourages individuals of all ages to prioritize brain health, likening it to heart health, and urges seeking medical attention for any concerning symptoms.

Her advocacy also led her to participate in the 2022 Alzheimer’s Impact Movement (AIM) Advocacy Forum, where she joined over 700 advocates in turning Capitol Hill purple, marking their return to Washington, D.C. after a two-year hiatus due to the

COVID-19 pandemic. Despite challenges in 2020 and 2021, these advocates achieved legislative wins, including the passage of the Improving HOPE for Alzheimer’s Act and the Promoting Alzheimer’s Awareness to Prevent Elder Abuse Act, along with record increases in federal research funding.

Doreen’s Volunteerism award was quite warranted – she stands as a beacon of resilience, turning her personal battle with early-onset Alzheimer’s into a mission to advocate for others. Her journey, marked by prestigious recognition and unwavering dedication, showcases the power of strength in adversity. Doreen’s commitment to spreading awareness, fostering hope, and championing brain health emphasizes the importance of early detection and support in the face of Alzheimer’s challenges.

For more information on Alzheimer’s detection, visit www.alzfdn.org.

LOCAL HEROES

Sayydah Garrett with a group of students in Maasai Mara going to school because of the work Sayydah has done in Kenya.

Members of the Samburu community Kenya.

Glen Ridge Resident’s Passion for Women’s Rights is Making a Difference in Kenya

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BY JACKIE SCHATELL

In 2012, Glen Ridge resident Sayydah Garrett’s fascination with elephants led her to a Maasai village in Kenya, which sparked the birth of the Pastoralist Child Foundation (PCF), dedicated to eradicating female genital mutilation (FGM) and forced early marriages. What began as a safari transformed into a mission to empower Kenya’s Samburu and Maasai Mara communities.

Co-founded by Sayydah and Samuel Siriria Leadismo, a passionate advocate from the village Sayydah visited during her trip, PCF swiftly registered as a Community-Based Organization in Kenya and gained 501(c)3 status in the USA. The foundation’s mission is to accelerate the abandonment of FGM and child marriage through grassroots education.

The PCF approach involves workshops, youth empowerment programs, and adult community dialogues addressing FGM, child marriage, teen pregnancy, HIV/AIDS, and the importance of formal education.

Through mobilization, PCF replaces harmful practices with Alternative Rites of Passage and sponsors girls’ education at secondary and university levels.

PCF’s scholarship program provides full support for low-income, high-performing students. These scholars commit to

Sayydah Garrett speaking to a group.

Success is evident in the statistics. In regions where FGM rates were once as high as 95%, PCF’s efforts have led to a 35% decrease. In addition, a girls’ secondary school was built due to increased enrollment, emphasizing the shift towards education over harmful traditions.

A member of the Samburu community of Kenya with her child.

maintaining good grades, embodying leadership, and volunteering during workshops. The ripple effect is profound, as educated girls often become mothers encouraging their children to pursue education.

Recognizing their influential role as decision-makers, PCF also educates local men and boys on the vices. This approach aims to change customs by explaining the detrimental effects of these practices and ultimately ending the traditions.

In a testament to their commitment, last summer, the PCF board, and friends joined Sayydah on her annual trip to Kenya, witnessing the foundation’s transformative work. They captured the beauty and resilience of the communities and natural habitat, turning their photos into a calendar now available on the website to raise funds for PCF’s vital initiatives.

Sayydah Garrett’s passion and dedication, ignited by a safari to Kenya, have propelled PCF to make a significant difference. With every scholarship granted, every workshop conducted, and every calendar sold, PCF is rewriting the narrative, empowering communities to envision a future free from the shackles of FGM and early marriages.

For more information, go to pastoralistchildfoundation.org February 2024 | SuburbanEssex.com | 13

LOCAL BUZZ

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Spyro Gyra 50th Anniversary with Special Guest Jeff Lorber Fusion

A double bill of contemporary jazz legends! Over the past 50 years, Spyro Gyra has performed more than 10,000 shows and released 35 albums, garnering platinum and gold records and crossover hits such as “Morning Dance” and “Shaker Song.”

Known for his smooth style of weaving together elements of funk, rock and electric jazz, Grammy Award-winning keyboardist Jeff Lorber helped pioneer the post-fusion sound of contemporary jazz.

Thursday, March 7, 7:30pm Mayo Performing Arts Center 100 South Street, Morristown 973-539-8008 www.MayoArts.org

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Cake and Sip – Valentine’s Day Edition: Stirring Up Sweet Memories for Couples!

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Grab your sweetheart for a delightful Valentine’s Day Cake decorating extravaganza, where love is the icing on the cake!

Let the fun unfold as you enjoy music, drinks, and lite bites at this unique BYOB event. It’s not just cake decorating; it’s a celebration of your sweetest moments together. Mix, mingle, and make your love story even more delicious at this Cake and Sip event – because love is always in the mix!

Monday, February 12, 7 - 9pm Jessica Sweets 489 Bloomfield Ave Caldwell 973-521-6966 / To register visit www.jessicasweets.com

Galentine’s Day Ladies’ Night Out: Unleash the Fun After Dark!

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Ladies, ages 21+, it’s time to gather your squad for a sassy and sweet Jessica Sweets After Dark celebration with the fabulous cake artist Emily Bauer. Get ready for loads of laughter, a touch of mischief, and a whole lot of fun! It’s a night where the cake is as wild as the company – because sometimes, desserts need a dash of daring. Let loose, indulge, and make it a night to remember!

Tuesday, February 13, 7-9pm Jessica Sweets 489 Bloomfield Ave Caldwell NJ For tickets visit, www.clover.com/online-ordering/jessica-sweets-caldwell

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LOCAL BUZZ

Masters of Illusion

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Starring the world’s greatest award-winning magicians, Masters of Illusion is unlike anything you have seen before – filled with modern illusions and arts of deception, performed live on stage.

Watch closely as you experience things that just can’t be done……or can they?

Audiences will be held at the edge of their seats by the jaw-dropping grand illusions and laugh out loud at the hysterical comedy magic as performers from around the world combine fantasy, fervor and flair with magic created in front of their very eyes.

Masters of Illusion has performed live in front of tens of thousands of people around the US for the past six years and been seen by over 100 million viewers on the CW network as well as in 126 countries around the world.

Thursday, March 14 –7:30pm Mayo Performing Arts Center 100 South Street, Morristown 973-539-8008 www.MayoArts.org

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This year’s must-see family event of the year features 15 amazing acts with diverse performances spanning rock, R&B, theater, stand-up comedy, pop, jazz and more! A panel of distinguished arts and entertainment professionals will judge the competition, where finalists will have the chance to win $2,500NJinHIC prizes Registration: including the fan-favorite Audience Choice Award. 13VH00308600 Call us today about your Thursday, February 29 –7pm renovation/remodeling project: Mayo Performing Arts Center 100 South Street, Morristown 973-539-8008 / www.MayoArts.org

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LOCAL BUZZ

Art Exhibit: Jan Huling

Das Bug; 2015; Fiberglass substrate, Czech glass beads, mixed media; Photo courtesy the artist.

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Taking its name from Huling’s pandemic series, Everything is Alive, this exhibition will tap into the whimsical, mythical elements of Huling’s work and transform the Museum into a living wonderland where visitors can encounter one of her creations around any corner.

Taming the Tiger, 2014; Plaster substrate, brass chain, French beaded flowers, Czech glass beads, mixed media. Photo courtesy of artist

A centralized exhibition space will anchor the visitor experience, revealing the artist’s story and her unique, transformative artistry of realistic and

Bringing Your World Into Focus!

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fantastical animal forms. Her work will be spread throughout the Morris Museum, building an immersive museum experience where visitors encounter the unexpected in familiar places.

Friday, February 23 – Sunday May 36 Bickford Theatre Morris Museum 6 Normandy Heights Road, Morristown (973) 971-3700 https://morrismuseum.org

LOCAL BUZZ

H

Summer in February Performance

Harmonium Choral Society is excited to announce that their Harmonium Broadway Cabaret Troupe is bringing you Summer in February for a fun night out with fabulous musical theatre. There will be a silent auction of great prizes, and a wine pull.

The Harmonium Broadway Cabaret Troupe is a group of talented singers from Harmonium’s family of singers with a passion for musical theater. They perform a night of fantastic music that swings

from hilarious to stirring, all to raise funds to keep Harmonium Choral Society performing and enchanting Northern New Jersey community audiences.

The troupe’s talented musical director, Holland Jancaitis, and gifted co-directors, Emily Wolper and Sarah Kuhns, continue to inspire troupe members, and have welcomed new singers to perform songs selected from Grease, Girls of Summer, Victor/Victoria, Some Like it Hot – and many others!

Saturday, February 10 –7pm (snow date February 24) Ukrainian American Cultural Center 60 N. Jefferson Road, Whippany 973-538-6969 www.harmonium.org/cabaret

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Design/Build | Kitchens | Bathrooms | Additions 438 Broad Street, Bloomfield 973-743-8722 www.ShowcaseKitchen.com NJLic#13VH00056300

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February 2024 | SuburbanEssex.com | 19

LOCAL BUZZ

Enter a World of Thrilling Fun

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Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus

Picture the “ultimate playground” with trapeze swings soaring through the air, jaw-dropping somersaults off teetertotters, extreme BMX riders defying gravity on huge ramps, and a merry-goround stage spinning with excitement, and much more.

comedic trio from Ukraine introduces a unique blend of physical comedy and a modern take on circus classics like dance, juggling, mime, and more to their performance.

Double Wheel of Destiny Two side-byside wheels that rotate independently at epic speeds will hang at 30-feet above the ground kickstarting an adrenalineinducing act, powered by four acrobats.

Teeterboards Imagine the ultimate playground, where see-saws flip and send you floating high into the sky. That’s exactly what will happen when the Troupe Brothers from Mongolia hit the show floor!

Triangular Highwire An all-new triangular formation 25-feet above the arena floor descend from the ceiling in a neverbefore-seen, never-before-attempted take on the highwire that you’ll have to see to believe.

Tallest Unicycle Wheeling at recordbreaking heights will be Wesley Williams, The One Wheel Wonder, who gives multiple unique unicycles a spin around the show floor, the tallest setting a record at over 34-feet.

Criss-Cross Flying Trapeze For the first time in Ringling history, a thrilling display on Criss-Cross Trapeze by the legendary Flying Caceres Troupe will astound with two acts in one.

Stunt Bikes A compilation of four BMX riders, one Trial Bike, and an extreme unicycle will wheel across the show floor introducing an innovative and exciting riff on traditional bike riding.

20 | Suburban Essex | February 2024

Human Rocket The arena will celebrate and have a blast as human cannonball royalty Skyler Miser steps on the show floor. She’ll load into a rocket – designed specifically for Ringling – and soar through the sky as a human rocket for the first-time launching to an incredible, inconceivable distance at 65 mph.

Acrobatics & Aerials Hand-to-hand acts performed by Mattia & Giulia and Julio & Maite will combine with acro-sport trio, Black Diamond, for a stunning display of human strength and balance.

Bailey Circuit™ Introducing, Bailey, a robotic quadruped and the audience’s soon-to-be new (and adorable) best friend. A true part of the cast, Bailey will be spotted around the arena floor getting into mischief and having fun with Nick Nack before joining the full cast in dynamic choreography.

Thursday, February 29Sunday, March 3 Laughs for the Whole Family Meet Equivokee. As fun to watch as it is to say out loud – go ahead, try it – this

Prudential Center 25 Lafayette Street, Newark 973-757-6000 / www.prucenter.com

THE ROOT CAUSE OF CHRONIC PAIN A Local Doctor explains the negative impact that chronic stress has on our bodies, and what she and her team are doing to help those in her care live lives free from pain!

Inflammation is an integral part of your body’s defense system.

You twist your ankle stepping off the curb and the area around the injury immediately begins to swell and fill with heat. Blood circulation increases and an army of white blood cells rushes the area to ward off the perceived threat and prevent further injury. The same happens if you cut your foot on a sharp shell while walking the beach, when you get the flu from your children or grandchildren, or if you bump your head on a cabinet door that your spouse forgot to shut.

In acute doses, inflammation is a vital immune response that harnesses the potential to protect us. So why is inflammation always getting a bad rap?

“Unfortunately, this immune response sometimes occurs when it shouldn’t and for longer periods of times than is necessary,” shares Dr. Aleksandra Mihajlovic, DTCM of Sasha Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine in Montclair.

“Autoimmune disorders, untreated injuries, exposure to toxins - all of these can be causes for chronic inflammation.

The biggest culprit though, is stress.”

Janet D. of Livingston sought treatment at Sasha Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine after several doctors and specialists were unable to treat what she thought was run-of-the-mill arthritis. “I hurt all the time and while I’ve always managed to get out of bed, some days it felt like getting up in the morning was going to be the hardest thing I did in this life.”

Before she consulted with Dr. Aleksandra, Janet had tried prescription medications, steroid injections, and physical therapy with little to no success. “I was at the end of my rope. My husband was at the end of his. He is the one who first read about Dr. Aleksandra and how she is using acupuncture and ozone therapy to treat pain and fatigue. The only thing I had to lose at that point was him. He’s been so kind and patient through this whole ordeal, but I could tell this was just as hard on him as it was on me. I mean who wants to watch while the person they love suffers nearly every day.”

The staff at Sasha Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine understands that the chronic pain and complicated conditions

they specialize in treating are often a family affair and encourages loved ones to accompany patients to their consultations, even treatments.

Dr. Aleksandra explains, “It’s very rare that the kind of pain our patients suffer from is felt alone. It causes disappointment when they have to cancel plans with their family. It causes resentment when they don’t feel well enough to do the things their spouse wants to do. It causes frustration when they are unable to play with their grandchildren. So, when our patients have a support system on their healing journey, it greatly increases their chances of success, of getting back to living their life.”

Having a loved one present has also proven to be beneficial during the consultation process. “As we discussed Janet’s medical history and delved into when her pain and fatigue started, her husband mentioned that it was around the time they lost their son,” shares Dr. Aleksandra.

“It’s just not something I normally discuss.” tells Janet. “Especially with people I just met. There are still so many emotions surrounding that day.”

In Janet’s case, this turned out to be vital information. As Dr. Aleksandra shared, stress can be a major contributor to chronic inflammation and the emotional turmoil from losing a loved one, especially a child, is quite simply unfathomable.

Studies have shown that people who have recently lost a loved one have

inflammation levels 54% higher than average. And when you consider that chronic inflammation is at the root of major health disorders like heart disease, cancer, obesity, and autoimmune conditions, it’s safe to say that you can quite literally die from a broken heart.

Of course, inflammation caused by stress goes way beyond grief and loss. The staff at Sasha Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine have seen chronic inflammation in patients with high stress jobs, couples who are going through a divorce, and even people in the process of building their dream home. The body reacts to stress by releasing chemicals and hormones that are meant to be short term but when that stress is unmanageable or continues for long periods it can cause increased inflammation and a myriad of other chronic health problems.

Janet has been a patient of Dr. Aleksandra for almost three months and couldn’t wait for the opportunity to sit down and share her success story.

“I never understood how tiny needles and oxygen can make such a huge difference, but at this point I’m so happy it doesn’t matter… [Dr. Aleksandra] saved my life, and my marriage! I’m still grieving and l’m not sure that will ever go away but the treatments, the staff–it’s reduced my physical pain, so I finally have the energy to face life, to show up.”

For a list of services and what they treat visit www.SashaAcupuncture.com. Ready to schedule a consultation?

Call 973-444-8932 to schedule today!

Visit www.SashaAcupuncture.com to learn more and to take advantage of their New Patient Offer!

HAPPY HOUR AT SITTING PRETTY WITH PINK JEWELS You’re Invited to Our

Galentine’s Day Party!

LOSE WEIGHT, CLEANSE YOUR SYSTEM AND FEEL YOUR HEALTHIEST WITH AWARD WINNING CERTIFIED ORGANIC GREEN DRINKS & CLEANSES

VOTED BEST SPECIALTY STORE!

Suburban Essex

Suburban Essex

202320222021 Silver Winner

Come with your bestie for a night of sipping, shopping & glamming!

Suburban Essex

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• Clients have lost up to 15lbs in 3 days! We give you the tools to keep it off with our recipes and Green Drink replacement for breakfast.

• Created by certified nutritional therapist, author and Chef, Veronica Wheat.

• Our clinically tested products are proven to lower inflammation, help you lose weight, and feel better.

• People have seen major health changes by sticking to our program.

• Visit us in West Caldwell with organic low sugar smoothies, blended juices, and bowls. FREE SAMPLES of our famous Green Drink!

SWAG BAGS • DRINKS • FUN

Tuesday, February 12, 6-9pm Sitting Pretty Intimates 97 S. Livingston Ave, Suite C, Livingston

55% OFF All Deliveries at ChefV.com Use code: SUBURBAN • or Call: 866-709-6060 or Visit Our Store in the Essex Mall—next to Marshalls and Stop n Shop—897 Bloomfield Ave, West Caldwell

Protecting People from the Risks of Everyday Life We’re here to make sure you are covered.

Call for a Complimentary Analysis.

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CELEBRATING OUR 100th ANNIVERSARY Denny Klein, President and CEO, and the staff of Rand, Feuer & Klein, LLC

INSURANCE AND RISK MANAGEMENT SERVICES FOR YOUR HOME OR BUSINESS 22 | Suburban Essex | February 2024

LOCAL BUZZ

Massage

Facial

Swedish or Deep Tissue

Anti-Aging Pumice Peel

Hand or Foot Sugar Scrub (Pink Champagne or Raspberry Lemon) Rose Shea Body Butter

The Cat In The Hat

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A boring, rainy afternoon turns into an amazing, mischievous, and hilarious adventure when The Cat in the Hat comes calling from the moment his tall, red-andwhite-striped hat appears around the door, Sally and her brother know that The Cat in the Hat is the funniest, most mischievous cat that they have ever met. With the trickiest of tricks and the craziest of ideas, he is certainly loads of fun. He turns a rainy afternoon into an amazing adventure… but what will mum find when she gets home…?

Brighting Serum Hydrating & Firming Mask

Hydrocollator

Rose Shea Body

(Heat Packs for Back Compressions)

Butter Décolleté

60 Minutes Reg Price: $200

60 Minutes Reg Price: $200

SPECIAL PRICE: $89

Massage

SPECIAL PRICE: $89

Gift Certificates are available for purchase & expire on April 13, 2024.

Buy both specials to get 10% OFF!

A Touch of WellBeing

97 Roseland Ave, Caldwell 07006 973-228-4289 | www.atowbnj.com

The sensory friendly performance will have lights up, modified sound, a quiet room in addition to the ability to get out of your seat so children with sensory sensitivities may share in this family experience.

Gift Giving Simplified…

Tuesday, March 12, 4pm Recommended for ages 3+ Mayo Performing Arts Center 100 South Street, Morristown | 973-539-8008 www. Mayoarts.com

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED

T ELECTRICIAN BES

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Lic. No. 16744

Electrical Contractors

FREE Estimates 973.325.3626 144 Main Street, West Orange

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343 Bloomfield Avenue, Caldwell • 973-228-1167 OPEN TUE-SAT

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February 2024 | SuburbanEssex.com | 23

Suburban Essex

PROTECTING YOUR MOST VALUABLE ASSET.

2023

Providing Customized Solutions for Decades.

Gold Winner

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he legal team at Cipriano Law Offices, P.C. has over 100 combined years of experience working to craft solutions that make sense for your family. We know that every one of our clients faces unique circumstances. Because no two families are the same, no two solutions should be either.

In addition to being seasoned trial advocates, our team of seven attorneys boasts four qualified Mediators; two Parent Coordinators and three trained in Collaborative law. Our Mediators will accommodate your schedule and provide mediation services in an effort to quickly resolve your issues and move your case forward. The Parenting Coordinators are likewise available to assist families experiencing difficulty co-parenting during and after divorce. Our Collaboratively trained attorneys are ready to amicably resolve your divorce without going to war. In all matters, our attorneys are ready to zealously advocate for your position: we know when to negotiate and when to press on with litigation. If amicable resolutions are not possible our courtroom savvy attorneys will vigorously advance your position using all remedies available.

Our team understands the impact divorce has on your family and your finances; our goal is to protect your interests as we help to position you for your post-divorce needs.

We are here for all your family law needs including Pre and Post Nuptial agreements, Adoptions, Custody and Parenting Time concerns, Alimony and Child Support modifications, and Domestic Violence Issues, including trials. Visit our website for more information.

Melissa Cipriano, Esq.

Suburban Essex

Suburban Essex

Suburban Essex

2023 20222021 Gold Winner

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VOTED BEST FAMILY LAW! 2019-2023

175 Fairfield Avenue, Suite 4C/D, West Caldwell | 973-403-8600

www.CiprianoLaw.com

FOCUS ON EDUCATION

Experience French Immersion at the FIAF Montclair Preschool!

Montclair’s branch of the French Institute Alliance Française (FIAF) is now offering a French immersion preschool program for children ages 2½ to 5. Applications are currently being accepted for the 2024-2025 school year.

The preschool is taught entirely in French and is specially crafted for children with or without previous exposure to the language. The loving and nurturing teachers are native French speakers who specialize in early childhood education and have extensive experience teaching French as a foreign language.

FIAF’s goal is for your child to be conversational in French after two to three years.

The school’s mission is to provide a joyful entry into school life as well as into the French language, combining the best of French and American teaching methods within a rich, multicultural environment. The FIAF Preschool provides your child with all the proven benefits of bilingualism, while preparing them with the educational, social, and emotional tools needed to succeed at any kindergarten.

Don’t have a preschooler? There are language programs and cultural events for francophiles of all ages at FIAF Montclair!

FIAF MONTCLAIR 17-19 Munn Street, 3rd Fl. , Montclair 973-783-0507 Fiaf.org/newjersey

Thank You for Voting for Us! Suburban Essex

Suburban Essex

2023 Bronze Winner

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BEST PAINTER—GOLD

BEST HOME RENOVATIONS—BRONZE

We Do More Than Just Paint…

RESTORATION & ROOFING INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING ROOFING • CARPENTRY • GUTTERS

FREE ESTIMATES Call Toll-Free 888-Painting www.GikasContracting.com February 2024 | SuburbanEssex.com | 25

Focus on Education Resource Directory

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ew Jersey parents are fortunate to have a wealth of options for their children’s education, tutoring and enrichment classes. Open houses provide insider information and help to answer questions for parents. Please contact each school or center directly for any questions.

Berkeley College 44 Riflee Camp Road, Woodland Park 800-446-5400 | berkeleycollege.edu In a wooded setting on a lush mountaintop adjacent to parklands and a reservoir, the Woodland Park campus is an idyllic environment for the college experience. Beautiful architecture combines with modern technology in a setting that is conveniently located in the suburbs of New York City. Ample parking is available and major highways are easily accessible. Security services include on-campus security personnel and 24/7 monitoring.

The Craig School Lower/Middle School 15 Tower Hill Road, Mountain Lakes High School 24 Changebridge Road, Montville 973-334-1234 | www.craigschool.com To view a virtual tour, visit their website.

26 | Suburban Essex | February 2024

The mission of The Craig School is it provide students a strategy-based, comprehensive, and challenging school experience that acknowledges their learning disabilities, builds on their aptitudes, and strengthens their self-awareness and self-esteem. They help parents assess their child’s true potential and understand the nature of learning disabilities and provide families an internal support network within the Craig community.

Brainiax Innovative Learning Private Preschool & Enrichment 160 S. Livingston Ave, Ste. 112 Livingston, NJ 07039 973-577-7055 www.BrainiaxNJ.com Age Group: Pre-K-Grade 5 Brainiax offers a private small group inclusive preschool and an inclusive after-school enrichment program for preschool and kindergarten-age students. Our program focuses on each child’s cognitive, physical, and social-emotional development. Brainiax incorporates a robust literacy and math program in our morning schedule and numerous enrichments take place in the afternoons. We provide S.T.E.A.M. education on a daily basis to engage imaginations, instruct, and facilitate early learners’ exploration and growth. The daily schedule is also filled with hands-on opportunities to build on the natural curiosity of all children. We are a tight-knit school family, encouraging the growth of each unique child.

Lacordaire Academy

FIAF French-Immersion Preschool

Co-Ed PK-8 • All Girls 9-12 155 Lorraine Avenue, Upper Montclair, NJ 973-744-1156 x12 lacordaireacademy.com Open Houses: Lower & Middle School Information Session, Tuesday, February 20 from 9-10am Tours available M-F by appointment Lacordaire Academy is a top independent day school that provides a dynamic, rigorous education in the Catholic Dominican tradition.

Lacordaire students learn and grow in inspired and globally-influenced classrooms, with creative teachers that nurture respect, intellectual curiosity, compassion, and integrity. Lacordaire graduates matriculate to top high schools and colleges, equipped with the tools needed to lead meaningful and fulfilling lives.

17-19 Munn Street, Montclair 973-783-0507 fiafpreschool.org/montclair Info Sessions: Mondays, Feb 5-Mar 25 (No info session on Feb 19), 9:15am-10:15am The FIAF Preschool is a French immersion program for ages 2½ to 5. The FIAF Preschool is taught entirely in French by loving native French-speaking teachers in order to create a fully immersive language experience, laying the foundation for bilingualism and opening your child’s mind to a broader understanding of the world. The program is the perfect environment for both native and non-native French speakers and prepares children with the educational, social, and emotional tools needed to succeed at any kindergarten. Visit us at fiafpreschool.org/ montclair to learn more about the preschool program, to join us for an info session, or to tour our space.

The Language Institute 175 Fairfield Avenue, 2C, West Caldwell 973-228-1843 TheLanguageInstitute.com Age Groups: Children ages 6 and up, middle, high school, college students, adults Quality instruction to introduce children to a new language, for students of all ages for expert enrichment or remedial tutoring and for adults with personal, business or travel goals.

Montclair Cooperative School 65 Chestnut St, Montclair | 973-783-4955 www.montclaircoop.org Age Groups: Early Ages-Grade 8 Individual Tours Mon-Fri, email to scheduleadmissions@montclaircoop.org They are a community dedicated to creating a diverse and nurturing environment where children flourish intellectually and develop exceptional social skills along with a deep sense of community responsibility.

Our Lady y of the Lake School Registration for the Fall 2024/2025 School Year is Open!

To learn more, visit myoll.org or scan the QR code • PreK3-Grade 8 • Community Service

• Leadership Skills • Aftercare

26 Lakeside Avenue, Verona, NJ | 973-239-1160 | www.myoll.org Middle States Accredited For more information, please email Thomas Conroy (Principal) at: tconroy@myoll.org

• Personalized Learning • Clubs and Athletics 2x National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence February 2024 | SuburbanEssex.com | 27

Focus on Education Resource Directory

(continued from previous page)

Mount St. Dominic Academy

Saint Thomas the Apostle School

3 Ryerson Avenue, Caldwell 973-226-0660 | www.msdacademy.org Age Groups: 14-18 years old (girls only) Open House: October 5, 6:30pm and October 29, 1pm Register Here: bit.ly/3KQpOf7 Mount St. Dominic Academy is a 4-year private Catholic college preparatory school offering a curriculum that includes leadership and life skills, college prep and career-readiness, explorations of faith and service, 17 AP offerings, 13 varsity teams, and an award-winning performing arts department, and more.

50 Byrd Ave, Bloomfield | 973-338-8505 www.staschoolnj.org Age Groups: 3-14 years old Open House: Sunday, January 23, 2024 Saint Thomas the Apostle School provides students with a challenging and comprehensive education integrating spiritual values rooted in the Roman Catholic tradition.

We cultivate and herald the growth of our students in mind, body, and spirit, preparing them to take their place in the Church and in the world, in roles of leadership and service.

School of Rock

Our Lady of the Lake School 26 Lakeside Avenue, Verona 973-239-1160 www.myoll.org Age Groups: PreK-3 – Grade 8 Student Visitation Days: (Wednesdays) 2/21/24, 3/20/24, 4/17/24 (8–11am) Our Lady of the Lake School is a two-time National Blue Ribbon School of Academic Excellence where children Pre-K through Grade 8 go for leading academics and lasting connections. Our Lady of the Lake School provides a supportive educational team of students, staff, parents and community that aims at providing a creative, Christian learning environment. An emphasis is placed on developing students’ individual abilities, promoting social awareness, and encouraging them to become responsible, contributing members of church and society.

French Immersion Preschool For Children 2½-5 at FIAF Montclair!

125 Valley Road, Montclair 973-337-5296 www.montclair.schoolofrock.com Email: kmarch@schoolofrock.com At School of Rock, learning music helps kids blossom in unimaginable ways. Students are not just taught an instrument–they build confidence learning to deal with life situations. Kids are performing on stage from the beginning, which teaches them to play as part of a team. This helps them learn their skills faster and more thoroughly. Montclair School of Rock’s creative community helps children succeed in music and beyond.

Learn, Grow, Explore.

Apply now at fiafpreschool.org/montclair FIAF also offers weekly French classes for all levels and ages

A P P LY NOW F O R FA LL 2024

17-19 Munn Street, Montclair NJ, 07042 973-783-0507 fiafnj@fiaf.org

Experience Progressive Education Early Ages - 8th Grade A learning environment that nurtures academic excellence, creativity, and independent thinking.

65 Chestnut St, Montclair | 973-783-4955 Learn more at montclaircoop.org 28 | Suburban Essex | February 2024

Serenity Montessori 19 Church Street, Verona 973-239-3902 www.serenitymontessori.com Since 2016, each child at Serenity Montessori Academy has been valued as a unique individual. The school accommodates all learning styles with students free to learn at their own pace. Classrooms are intentionally designed with Language, Sensorial, Practical Life, Science and Culture materials necessary for their development. Internal satisfaction drives the child’s curiosity and interest and results in joyous learning that is sustainable over a lifetime. Call Sarah Colucci for more information and to schedule a tour. 973-239-3902.

Teacher Tutors 973-317-8839 TheTeacherTutors.com Age: All Ages/Abilities Teacher Tutors offers in-home and online tutoring and test prep with experienced educators.

Whether you’re looking for help with grade school reading comprehension, refining an essay, AP Biology homework, college level statistics, SAT prep or any other academic subject, Teacher Tutors can offer your family a professional experienced educator for all ages and abilities.

Winston Preparatory School 901 Route 10 East, Whippany 973-500-6480 www.winstonprep.edu Email: mfisher@winstonprep.edu Age Groups: 3-12 grade To register for an Open House, contact the school office or visit the website.

Winston Prep NJ, located in Whippany, is a leading school for students grades 3-12 with learning differences such as ADHD, dyslexia, and nonverbal learning disorder (NVLD). Winston Prep’s learning model is based on an in-depth understanding of each student which results in grouping by learning profile and precisely designed programming. This curated instruction leads to extraordinary transformations in student lives and learning.

Suburban Essex

2023 Gold Winner

For Children 2.5-6.5 Years Old

“A Place to Discover The Brilliant Child in Every Student and Unlock Their True Potential” Registration Open for September 2024-25 Academic Year and Serenity Summer Adventures OPEN HOUSE DATES: March 9, 12-2pm & April 6, 12-2pm School Tours and Serenity Summer Adventures Information Call Sarah Colucci at: 973-239-3902

19 CHURCH STREET, VERONA

VISIT OUR WEBSITE: www.serenitymontessori.com February 2024 | SuburbanEssex.com | 29

LIFE, HAIR, & Shag86 20 Anniversary th

BY CHRISTINE S. MAXWELL, PHOTOS BY DAN EPSTEIN

30 | Suburban Essex | February 2024

& HAPPINESS C Confetti, fireworks, and joyful music!

Shag86 Hair Salon is 20 years old.

Since its inception in March 2004, Shag has lived by its motto of Life, Hair, and Happiness.

Numerous friends and family have stepped up to the plate to help Gerald Ferraro, the owner, create a premier

salon in the heart of Little Falls. Growing up, he observed his mother and uncle, both hairstylists, create beautiful designs for appreciative clients. His uncle, Allen Veneziano, a significant influencer, mentored Gerald, demonstrating positivity and providing the logistics of running a successful salon.

(continued on the next page)

February 2024 | SuburbanEssex.com | 31

Samantha Moore, Mimi Pastrana, Fritzi Gonzalez, Tom Harris, Gerald Ferraro

Monica Dybus, Katie Raniero, Sarah Ferraro

LIFE, HAIR, AND HAPPINESS (continued from the previous page)

In addition, Gerald’s wife, Sarah, Director of Operations, ensures the highest quality of functionality, along with a fabulous team that upholds the most important values of character and integrity propel the salon’s success. Gerald has also worked with many of the finest leaders in hair design throughout his career.

education they receive. “Keeping a splendid work environment with positive attitudes and always sharpening our skills in hair design is a winning recipe.

Our employees love what they do, are happy, and treat our clients with the highest respect and deepest appreciation,” he remarks.

“I realized my dream of creating a hair salon with likeminded stylists who share a passion for hair design and their talents in creating beautiful hair. With passion and talent, the rest falls into place,” he says. “It is quite simple to do so. Surround yourself with others who love what they do.”

Although Shag 86 always provided opportunities for its employees to upgrade their skills, in 2021, the salon opened its educational opportunities to area hairstylists with the creation of Shag86 University.

Tom Harris, the artistic director, brings years of experience as a Paul Mitchell educator. The Shag86 University educators are eager to share their wealth of knowledge with stylists in the regional area. The faculty are Shag86 employees, with more than a combined total of 160 years of professional experience and with diverse specialties. “An oasis of opportunities now exists in our backyard, with Shag86 University as a destination point,” states Gerald.

Simply put, Shag86 thrives by making its clients happy. Shag86 has twenty-eight employees and twenty-two stylists, many of whom specialize in a specific hair design, such as curly hair, long hair, short hair, and color. Many stylists stay at Shag86 their entire careers due to the camaraderie and continuing

32 | Suburban Essex | February 2024

What’s in a Name?

How did Shag86 receive its name? Gerald Ferraro says Shag86 was named after his favorite hairstyle, the shag. Since the shop is located at 86 Main Street, he married the hairdo and location.

“Shag86 is a fun name,” he says. “It flows.

Both the town and shop are fun, vibrant, and growing. Much like Little Falls, Shag86 is a cultural icon.”

Shag86 University Educators Shag86 boasts talented stylists, many of whom have expertise in specific hair design. Below is a snapshot of some talented, dedicated hair design educators: Lily Vasquez – Curly Hair Fritzi Gonalez – Hair Stylist and Makeup Artist Samantha Casillo – Balayage, Hair Painting Daniel Stevens – Master Barber Tom Harris–Artistic Director of Education and Shag 86 University Gerald Ferraro – Owner Gerald & Sarah Ferraro

Further expanding its client base, the S86 Men’s lounge opened its salon on the third floor with an eye toward excellent and complete client service. From beards to buzz cuts, master barbers Daniel Stevens and Edward Parks promise to deliver that perfect look and style.

“We have a passionate business here at Shag86, and we have some more exciting plans to unfold soon. We are always looking for the best ways to serve our dedicated, loyal, and new clients,” says Gerald.

Shag86 Salon 86 Main Street, Little Falls | 973-837-0086 www.shag86.com

Tom Harris–Artistic Director of Education and Shag 86 University

Gina Torres–Prestigious Stylist and dedicated and loyal employee for 20 years

February 2024 | SuburbanEssex.com | 33

LOCAL BUZZ

“After Midnight” – A Swinging Tribute to the Harlem Renaissance

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Step back in time and swing into the electrifying world of the Harlem Renaissance with “After Midnight,” an exhilarating musical revue that pays homage to the legendary Cotton Club. Immerse yourself in the unparalleled glamor of jazz and swing, celebrating the vibrant culture of New York City during this iconic era.

Conceived by the brilliant Jack Viertel, this dazzling production features the timeless music of Duke Ellington, accompanied by the poetic brilliance of Langston Hughes. The stage comes alive with a dynamic fusion of Hughes’s evocative words and the melodies of big-band legends like Jimmy McHugh, Harold Arlen, Dorothy Fields, and more.

“After Midnight” promises a night of musical enchantment, capturing the essence of a bygone era in the heart of New York City. Be transported by the rhythm and soul of unforgettable hits such as “I Can’t Give You Anything but Love,” “Stormy Weather,” “On the Sunny Side of the Street,” and the iconic “It Don’t Mean a Thing.”

Don’t miss this spectacular journey through the Cotton Club’s golden age, where the magic of jazz and the brilliance of Langston Hughes’s poetry come together to create an

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unmissable theatrical experience. You’ll enjoy a night of toetapping rhythms, soulful melodies, and the irresistible charm of the Harlem Renaissance!

Runs through February 24 Paper Mill Playhouse 22 Brookside Drive, Millburn 973-376-4343 www.my.papermill.org/overview/aftermidnight

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Musical Theatre Conservatory Broadway Boot Camp Auditions!

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Students take exciting classes in voice, acting, theatre dance, song interpretation, comedy improvisation, TV & commercial acting, audition technique, make-up & more!

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Whether an experienced performer or just starting out, MTC students work with theatre professionals committed to giving every child the solid foundation they need to be the best performer they can be! The atmosphere is professional, positive, nurturing, and fun. That’s when the best learning occurs. We pride ourselves on individual attention, age/level appropriate and exciting classes and a small student–teacher ratio.

Students will have the chance to meet and study agents and Broadway actors to get the inside scoop on working in theatre, film, and television! They will celebrate their hard work with a SPLASH at an end-of-session POOL PARTY then cap things off with our grand finale: A one-of-a-kind performance showcase in NYC (Broadway district)! Space is limited. Ages 7-18, beginner to advanced levels.

Auditions are the weeks of: February 3, February 10, February 17 & February 24 Broadway Bootcamp (Livingston) July 1- July 20 For appointments call Randi: 973-868-6259

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100 YEARS

AND OVER $1 MILLION CONTRIBUTIONS

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February 2024 marks 100 years that the Kiwanis Club of Caldwell-West Essex has been serving the community.

The public is invited to celebrate the club’s 100th year with an Anniversary event at the Highlawn in West Orange on March 1, 2024.

Organized on November 18, 1923, and chartered on February 28, 1924, the first president was Joseph C. Conover. The Club was initially founded to open a dental clinic and provide dental services to the children of the community. From its inception, the organization attracted people of high moral character from all levels of the West Essex community. The club offers personal growth through its involvement in a variety of community activities, teamwork, and deep longterm friendships. It has become an outstanding model of camaraderie and volunteerism in action.

“KIWANIS IS A GLOBAL ORGANIZATION OF VOLUNTEERS DEDICATED TO IMPROVING THE WORLD ONE CHILD AND ONE COMMUNITY AT A TIME.” The Club meets every Thursday at Cloverleaf Tavern in West Caldwell.

• CLUB LEADERS: President, Joy Scally; Immediate Past President, Jessica Almeida; President-Elect, Neil Malvone; Vice-President, Anthony Thomas; Secretary, Wally Brixne; Treasurer, Diane Corter.

• CLUB DIRECTORS: Lucia Adriaenssens; Ashley Davidson; Jeff Gates; Lucia Guarini; Dean Konner; John Krug; Anthony Thomas; and Marlene Waldock.

36 | Suburban Essex | February 2024

100 years later, the club is going strong. During the past 100 years, the club has contributed over $1 million to support initiatives to help children. The club sponsors “K-Kids” at local elementary schools in the area, including Saint Catherine of Siena School in Cedar Grove, Lincoln School in Caldwell, and Washington School in West Caldwell; three Builder’s Clubs (Middle School Age) at Grover Cleveland Middle School in Caldwell, West Essex Regional Middle School in North Caldwell, and Saint Catherine of Siena School in Cedar Grove. The Club also sponsors four Key Clubs (High School Age) at James Caldwell High School in West Caldwell, West Essex Regional High School in North Caldwell, Mt. St. Dominic Academy in Caldwell, and Verona High School in Verona. We also sponsor a Circle K (College Age) at Caldwell University.

In the spring of each year, the Club distributes ten $2500 scholarships to students from the area’s local high schools.

Students submit their written requests to a committee who ultimately makes the selections. For the past 32 years, Caldwell Kiwanis, in partnership with the Caldwell Rotary, have hosted the annual Caldwell Street Fair, which is attended by thousands of people. The event is one of Kiwanis’ two major fundraisers the provides the club with the funding to continue to support the community.

Kiwanas Club of Caldwell-West Essex www.caldwellkiwanis.org To register for the 100th Anniversary Event visit: https://k01139.site.kiwanis.org/100th-anniversary-celebration/

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Indulge in Valentine’s Day Glam at Line Eraser MD

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Get Valentine’s Day ready with $100 off a Lip Flip at Line Eraser MD. (Discount applied when performed with any additional service.) Enhance your smile with this non-invasive procedure using neuromodulators like Botox. Experience the subtle lift that gives your upper lip a fuller appearance.

It’s the perfect touch for a confident and radiant look. Plus, enjoy $150 off Lip Filler for the whole month of February! By appointment only. Call to book your Lip Flip and Lip Filler today and embrace the Valentine’s Day vibes! XOXO Friday, February 9th Line Eraser MD 79 W Mt Pleasant Ave., Livingston 973-567-4490 / www.lineerasermd.com

Dr. Giannella accepts most dental insurance plans and also offers an in-house dental plan for patients without any dental insurance.

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Support Your Local Merchant. Shop Local.

Find the perfect Valentine’s Day gifts at nearby independently owned businesses in our community.

Empower yourself & loved ones with Birdie — the original personal safety alarm made by women. Feeling uncomfortable? Trust your gut.

Pull the Top to start the LOUD siren & flashing strobe light, bringing all eyes on you. When you feel safe, reinsert the top to deactivate the alarm. More colors in store.

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Show your Valentine you care with a spa experience at Dieci.

A gift of relaxation and self-care, providing your significant other with a chance to unwind and pamper themselves. Receive 10% off gift cards of $150 or more. Offer valid through February 14, 2023.

343 Bloomfield Avenue, Caldwell | 973-228-1167 Like us on Facebook/Follow us on Instragram @ SmithCoGifts

Dieci Lifestyle Spa

90 West Mt. Pleasant Ave, Livingston | 973-716-0101 www.diecispa.com

Adorn your loved one–or yourself– with our large selection of heart jewelry.

Pink Jewels Boutique

1110 Town Center Way, Livingston | 973-994-0975 www.pink-jewels.com

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with special gifts and sweet treats. Also, gear up for Super Bowl Sunday with candy trays to elevate the game day experience.

Love Letters

2 West Northfield Road, Livingston | 973-994-1212 www.lovelettrs.com 38 | Suburban Essex | February 2024

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Our LOVE Hand-poured Crystal Soy Candle…

Archangel Chamuel assist in bringing love into difficult situations so that peace can be attained including within relationships, family & work.

Infused with Reiki Charged Healing Crystals & a Rose Quartz Keepsake Angel. Scent with Gardenia & Tuberose.

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Elevate your Valentine’s Day style with a Gabriel & Co. luxury medallion pendant.

From whimsical charms to elegant emblems of faith, these pendants invite you to express your personal style and will forever represent a special moment in your life. Add the chain of your choice to make this pendant part of your everyday look (we love it styled on a paperclip chain!).

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Each bracelet holds real holy water sourced directly from Lourdes, France. Discover a wearable blessing bracelet crafted with a touch of grace & infused with authentic water from Lourdes, France. Available in gold & silver tone, crystal pearl & lava rock for guys!

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Give that special someone in your life the gift of glowing, hydrated skin this Valentine’s Day! The HydraFacial is a relaxing spa facial that cleanses the skin and pores, gently exfoliates, and hydrates beautifully.

We also offer gift certificates that can be used towards any service!

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February 2024 | SuburbanEssex.com | 39

ART OF ESSEX

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rowing up as a kid in Garden City, Long Island, the son of a mother who was always making art, he was always encouraged to pursue the academics. And as such found himself at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute studying computer science. It was there that he started painting popular album covers on fellow students dorm room walls. After only one year, another direction called to Papoulas and he transferred to the Art School at the Pratt Institute. After completing his studies there, it wasn’t long until he had full schedule of free-lance illustration assignments and was ensconced in a life in Brooklyn. Combining computer savvy an entrepreneurial bent, and his artistic skills he started a series of digital consulting firms.

It was in 1998 that he began to paint in earnest, and began to exhibit. Dividing his time between a very busy digital consulting career, and his personal painting projects, with a wife and daughters in 2014 he moved from Brooklyn to Montclair where he manages to also find time for music, and for using his large collection of stereo photography equipment.

In his painting Fifth Avenue, a 30x40 inch gouache under acrylic painting on canvas, we immediately feel like we’re crossing this busy thoroughfare and are engulfed by the relentless traffic. It’s impossible not to sense that you are immediately transported into Manhattan and in this little moment, you are somehow in the middle of a very big moment when looking at this work.

Ted Papoulas

TED PAPOULAS When The Mundane Becomes Magical — STORY AND PORTRAIT BY DAN EPSTEIN —

40 | Suburban Essex | February 2024

Coffee Shop, 7.5”x10” gouache under acrylic on illustration board painting

Fifth Avenue, 30”x40” gouache under acrylic painting on canvas In Coffee Shop, a 7.5x10 inch gouache under acrylic on illustration board painting, Papoulas has captured the hubbub of Dizzy’s, his favorite Brooklyn coffee shop. Every detail in this painting is perfect and we find ourselves temporarily engulfed in this world, with a Jones for a regular and a buttered roll to go.

Look at Still Life With Ketchup, a 6x6 inch gouache under acrylic on wood panel. In this tiny microcosm of diner life, once again Papoulas has drawn our eyes to the mundane, and made it anything but. His on-going love with Brooklyn coffee shops calls us to celebrate the ordinary. The quality of his paintings is such that in the portrait of Papoulas accompanying this article a similar painting of different condiments on his desk appears at first glance to be, the real thing.

In his paintings he reminds up to stop and look at our surroundings, oft times the things we miss, or take for granted in our busy days, and at at the same time once again, takes us on a journey to someplace we’ve been in our own lives and in that process perhaps we remember those forgotten moments.

See more of his remarkable work on his website.

Still Life With Ketchup, 6”x6” gouache under acrylic on wood panel

Ted Papoulas tedpapoulas.com February 2024 | SuburbanEssex.com | 41

How to Choose a Summer Camp Your Kids Will Love and You Approve

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BY KIMBERLY BLAKER

Summer camp offers kids plenty of benefits, and many kids are thrilled with the idea of going away to summer camp. Still, for some kids, particularly those who are shy, introverted, or homebodies, the thought of going away for a night, let alone a week or more, can cause considerable anxiety. When kids are adamantly opposed, forcing summer camp on them may not be in their best interest.

But for kids who are eager—or at least willing to give it a shot without much fuss—summer camp offers opportunities kids may not have elsewhere. Summer camp provides kids the following benefits: • fosters independence • a place to develop new and lasting friendships • development of new skills • discovery of new interests and hobbies • the opportunity for creative expression • a break from being plugged-in daily exercise • improves their self-esteem • teaches kids to work with others • makes them feel part of a community • prevents or reduces summer learning loss

Once you and your child have narrowed the list down you’ll want to investigate the camps further. There are several things you’ll want to consider.

What are the staff’s qualifications?

Many summer camps use teens to staff the camps. Teens make excellent mentors and can bring liveliness to summer camp programs. However, the programs themselves should be developed by professionals and have professional oversight to ensure kids are getting the most from their camp experience.

How does the camp ensure your child’s safety?

Find out what kind of safety training the camp provides its staffers. Also, is there staff on hand at all times that knows CPR? What are the camp’s procedures in the event your child becomes ill, has an accident, or an emergency?

42 | Suburban Essex | February 2024

What is the daily schedule for campers?

Ask for a daily itinerary, so you know your child will be getting everything you and your child anticipate from the program.

What are the rules?

Each camp has its own set of rules. So, find out whether your child is allowed to call you. If it’s a summer-long residential camp, can parents come and visit?

Can kids bring along a cell phone or electronics? Also, how much money can they bring, and how is it managed?

Keep in mind, although there are many great camps, no camp is likely to offer everything precisely the way you want it. Just choose the one that best fits your child and satisfies your most important criteria. Remember, your child will have many summers to come and plenty more opportunities to work in more exciting camp experiences.

SUMMER CAMPS & ACTIVITIES 2024 Bricks 4 Kidz STEM Enrichment Camps

Deer Kill Day Camp

Essex Youth Theater

112 Eisenhower Parkway, Livingston www.bricks4kidsz.com/essexcounty TYPE: Day, Special Needs ACADEMICS: STEM

54 Wilder Road, Suffern, NY 842-354-1455 TYPE: Day, Transportation ADVENTURE: Rock Climbing, Zip Line ARTS: Arts & Crafts, Dance, Drama, Music, Photography, Theater SPORTS: Archery, Baseball, Basketball, Soccer WATER ACTIVITIES: Lake, Pool, Swimming

In Residence at Studio Playhouse 14 Alvin Place, Upper Montclair 973-746-3303 www.EssexYouthTheater.com TYPE: Day, Coed ARTS: Acting, Drama, Music

Camp NMOA at The Newark Museum of Art 49 Washington Street, Newark www.newarkmuseumart.org TYPE: Day, Coed ARTS: Art & Design, Music ACADEMICS: STEM

The Center for Pre-College Programs NJIT University Heights, Newark, NJ 973-596-3550 www.njit.edu/precollege TYPE: Day, Coed ACADEMICS: College Prep, Computer/ Technology, Robotics, Science, STEM

Essex County College Summer Youth Program Newark Campus & West Caldwell Campus 973-877-3079 www.essex.edu/continuing-ed.

TYPE: Day, Coed ACEDEMICS: Coding,Culinary, Entrepreneurship, Literacy Math, STEM, Test Prep, Video Gaming ARTS: Acting, Arts & Crafts, Fine Arts

Fairview Lake YMCA Sleepaway Camps Newton www.fairviewlakeymca.org/summer TYPE: Sleepaway, Coed ARTS: Acting, Dance, Drama, Music— Instrumental, ACADEMICS: Biology, Native American Study, Reading/Literature SPORTS: Archery, Sports, Swimming

February 2024 | SuburbanEssex.com | 43

SUMMER CAMPS & ACTIVITIES 2024 House of Dezign Fashion Camp 11B Roosevelt Avenue, Chatham, NJ www.houseofdezign.com TYPE: Day ARTS: Fashion and Design House of Dezign’s kids fashion camps is specially designed for children (Ages 6-12) so they can explore the fashion world. Their teen design summer camp is all about teaching campers how to sew, design, and all factors we consider in the fashion industry.

JCC Camp Deeny Riback (JCCA) 208 Flanders Netcong Rd, Flanders, NJ 973-929-2901 www.jccmetrowest.org/camps TYPE: Day, Coed ACADEMICS: Culinary, Farming, Photography ARTS: Acting, Arts & Crafts, Dance, Theater SPORTS: Aerobics, Basketball, Fitness, Gymnastics, Martial Arts, Soccer ARTS: Performing Arts, Visual Arts, Fashion Design

Musical Theatre Conservatory’s Broadway Bootcamp

New Jersey Ballet School

973-868-6259 www.musicaltheatreconservatory.com TYPE: Day ARTS: Acting, Arts & Crafts, Dance, Drama, Makeup, Music, Song Interpretation Shows, Theater WATER ACTIVITIES: Pool, Swim Party “Theatre for Life” is more than just a motto; it is their guiding philosophy. They believe that creative expression through the performing arts can have a lasting impact on students whether they simply have a love for the arts, want to learn to better express themselves, or desire a career as theatre professionals.

Nature Discovery Camp— Cora Hartshorn 324 Forest Drive S., Short Hills, NJ 973-376-3587 www.hartshornarboretum.org TYPE: Day, Coed ACADEMICS: Aquatic/Wildlife Ecology, Entomology, Geology, Herpetology, Nature Exposure, Reading/Literature ARTS: Arts & Crafts, Ceramics, Drawing SPORTS: Hiking, Wilderness Survival

7-9 Vreeland Road, Florham Park, NJ 973-597-9600 | info@njballet.org www.njballet.org/njbschool TYPE: Day ARTS: Dance New Summer Intensive Programs!

• AGES 12-18: The five-week Summer Intensive is geared towards serious ballet students ages 12 to 18 who have a passion for dance and are ready to achieve a new level of artistic excellence. June 24-July 27, 2024; Students must audition for this program.

• AGES 8-12: New Jersey Ballet School will host a two-week Youth Summer Intensive geared towards the next generation of budding young dancers.

While the program will center around classical ballet training, there will also be a variety of other dance styles for all to enjoy.July 29-August 9, 2024 • Four-week Open Summer Program: July 29 - August 23, 2024; Ages 4 through Adult

New Horizons Day Camp 71 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park 973-850-6640 www.newhorizondaycamp.com TYPE: Day, Coed

Montclair’s Premier Acting School for Kids for Over 30 Years!

ESSEX YOUTH THEATER In Residence at The Studio Playhouse, Upper Montclair

Where Every Child is a Star!

Summer Theater Day Camp!

• For Ages 6-13 • On-Stage, In a Real Theater!

• Exciting Plays & Musicals • Lots of Individual Attention in a Friendly Atmosphere • Every Child Gets a Starring Role!

973-746-3303 • www.EssexYouthTheater.com 44 | Suburban Essex | February 2024

REGISTER ONLINE Dance Classes for All Ages PreSchool Summer Arts Program PrimeTime Summer Arts Program

www.SMAPA.org | 973-655-9819 14 South Park Street, Montclair, NJ

NJPAC Arts Education Training

School of Rock Summer Music Camps

24 Rector Street, Newark, NJ 973-353-7058 www.njpac.org/arts-education TYPE: Day, Coed ARTS: Dance, Music, Theater

125 Valley Road, Montclair, NJ 973-337-5296 www.montclair.schoolofrock.com TYPE: Day ARTS: Music Music lessons are taught by real, practicing musicians… from singing to piano, bass, guitar, drums—even ukulele.

Pioneer Trails Day Camp 100 Bloomfield Avenue, Caldwell, NJ 973-992-7500 TYPE: Day, Coed ACADEMICS: CIT, Creative Writing, Photography, Science, ARTS: Arts & Crafts, Dance, Drama SPORTS: Archery, Baseball, Basketball, Football, Softball, Swimming, Tennis, Volleyball

Prime Time Summer Arts and Preschool Summer Arts 14 South Park, Montclair, NJ 07042 973-655-9819 www.smapa.org TYPE: Day ARTS: Acting, Dance, Drama, Musical Theater, Theater SPORTS: Fitness Full and half-day summer programs of Dance, Drama, Music, Art, and Choreography for ages 3-14. Every session is different so you can register for the whole summer.

Serenity Montessori Academy 19 Church Street, Verona 973-239-3902 www.serenitymontessori.com TYPE: Summer Adventures ARTS: Culinary/Cooking & Baking, Arts & Crafts, Music SPORTS: Sports Week, Water Play Days Serenity Summer Adventures—A 5 week summer extension program from July 1Aug 2. Weekly activities include, music, yoga, art exploration, science and outdoor discoveries. Ages 3-6 years old.

Stepping Forward Therapeutic Summer C.A.M.P.

ARTS: Arts & Crafts, Drama SPORTS: Martial Arts, Other Sports, Yoga WATER ACTIVITY: Swimming

Steve & Kate’s Camp 155 Lorraine Avenue, Montclair www.steveandkatescamp.com/montclair TYPE: Day, Coed

Summer Adventures at Oak Knoll 44 Blackburn Road, Summit, NJ 908-522-8186 www.oakknoll.org/summer TYPE: Day, Coed ACADEMICS: CIT, College Prep, Science, STEM ADVENTURE: Day Trips ARTS: Acting, Arts & Crafts, Dance, Drama, Music, Theater SPORTS: Archery, Lacrosse, Soccer WATER ACTIVITY: Swimming

Summer at Far Brook 52 Great Hills Road, Short Hills 973-379-3442 www.farbrook.org/summer TYPE: Day, Coed

26 Main Street, Chatham, NJ 973-635-6550 steppingforwardcounselingcenter.com TYPE: Day, Coed, Special Needs ADVENTURE: Day Trips

JULY 1ST - JULY 2OTH BROADWAY BOOTCAMP

Musical Theatre Conservatory SUMMER CAMP & SHOWCASE

MONTCLAIR, NJ

15% OFF SUMMER CAMP! For Summer 2024. Offer valid through April 1, 2024.

Visit Website for More Information.

PROFESSIONAL, PERSONALIZED TRAINING IN: SINGING, DANCING, ACTING, COMEDY, TV/FILM, STAGE COMBAT AND AUDITIONING

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Pool Parties!

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125 Valley Road, Montclair 973-337-5296 e-mail: Montclair@SchoolofRock.com

www.Montclair.SchoolofRock.com

973.868.6259 MusicalTheatreConservatory.com February 2024 | SuburbanEssex.com | 45

SENIOR LIVING

DONATE TO

SOUP FOR SENIORS PHOTO SOURCE: (c) Ridofranz / iStock via Getty Images Plus

Looking for a community service project to participate in? Join our “Soup for Seniors” canned soup drive!

Our seniors love all kinds of soup— Chicken Noodle, Italian Wedding, Tomato, Bean, Chickarina, etc.

Now Believe it or not, this helps with Through our “bottom line” food costs.

March 15

Thank You for Your Donations!

Support affordable, independent senior living in Montclair, NJ

The Montclair Inn

Drop off at The Montclair Inn or send via Amazon or Instacart

27 Hillside Avenue, Montclair

THE JOB HAINES DIFFERENCE Voted Best Choice In Senior Living 4 years in a row.

Suburban Essex

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2023 Gold Winner

Celebrating over 125 Years Of Excellence in Senior Living

Our residents enjoy the support of our friendly staff and around-the-clock services and amenities.

• ASSISTED LIVING: A vibrant lifestyle with a helping hand.

• LONG-TERM CARE: Highly skilled nursing care with an excellent ratio of staff to residents.

• SUB-ACUTE REHAB: State-of-the-art rehabilitation center on campus and open to the community.

• RESPITE CARE: A great way for caregivers to take a break and try out our award-winning services for up to 30 days.

ASK ABOUT OUR NEW YEAR MOVE-IN OFFER!

Hearthside Commons at the Job Haines Home 250 Bloomfield Ave. Bloomfield, NJ www.job-haines.org Call 973-743-0792 x139

RECIPIENT OF THE BEST NURSING HOMES 2023-2024 AWARD 46 | Suburban Essex | February 2024

IT’S TIME TO CARE About Long-Term Care

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While many people picture retirement as an opportunity to relax, retirees can face many challenges, including the potential need for long-term care. Long-term care refers to a range of services and support designed to meet needs associated with Activities of Daily Living (ADL) like bathing, dressing, or eating. Options for such care include in-home care, assisted living facilities and nursing homes.

“As the saying goes, ‘If you fail to plan, you plan to fail’,” says Jared Nepa, senior vice president, head of Life and MoneyGuard distribution, Lincoln Financial Group. “Many people wait until they’re older to begin long-term care planning. As the need for long-term care and the associated costs continue to rise, there are advantages to starting to plan when you’re younger and healthier.”

The cost of care can vary greatly across the United States and a long-term care event could have a significant financial impact.

Just one-third of consumers see long-term care as one of the biggest risks to their retirement savings while half of financial professionals cite it as the top concern.

With a variety of funding solutions available to mitigate longterm care risks, a financial professional can help you develop a comprehensive plan. In fact, most financial professionals feel that their clients who have planned for long-term care expenses feel more confident about their financial future.

Taking stock of your situation, talking to your family, and planning now can help ensure everyone is prepared for the emotional and financial decisions that may arise in the years ahead.

–StatePoint

SENIOR LIVING

U.S. News & World Report Names Job Haines Home

AS BEST CHOICE IN SENIOR LIVING

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Job Haines Home was recently recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the “Best Nursing Homes” in New Jersey for 2024 – a status earned by only 19% of skilled-nursing facilities nationwide. The U.S. News Best Nursing Home status was achieved with a rating of “High Performing,” the highest possible rating, for Short-Term Rehabilitation.

For the 2024 edition, U.S. News rated more than 15,000 nursing homes on residents’ outcomes – such as infection rates, staffing levels, potentially inappropriate reliance on antipsychotic drugs, health inspection results, and other indicators of quality.

“U.S. News’ Best Nursing Homes ratings give patients, senior residents, their families and caregivers an objective assessment of quality, to help them choose the facility that best fits their individual needs. Nursing homes that have earned

Michelle Capistrano, Arthur Onofre, Suthiphan Haustein, Devon Groce, Evelyne Lemy, Matilde Larios and resident, Elvira Lindorff

the recognition of U.S. News have a track record of achieving better outcomes for patients and residents, and maximizing the amount of care they receive from nurses and other staff.

The Job Haines Home 250 Bloomfield Avenue, Bloomfield 973-743-0792 x139 / www.Job-Haines.org

Recognizing Macular Degeneration

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Macular degeneration is an eye condition that primarily affects older individuals and can lead to vision loss. While it may progress slowly, it’s important to recognize its symptoms early on to seek timely treatment. Dr. Kurt Jackson advises patients to be vigilant for the following signs: 1. Blurred or Distorted Vision: One of the most common symptoms is a gradual decline in central vision, making it difficult to see fine details.

2. Dark Spots: Patients may notice dark spots or blind spots in the center of their visual field.

3. Straight Lines Appear Wavy: Straight lines may appear distorted or wavy, which can be a telltale sign of macular degeneration.

4. Difficulty Recognizing Faces: Recognizing faces or reading small print becomes challenging due to the loss of central vision.

5. Decreased Color Sensitivity: Some individuals may experience a reduced ability to perceive colors accurately.

6. Increased Sensitivity to Light: Macular degeneration can make the eyes more sensitive to bright light, leading to discomfort.

7. Difficulty Adapting to Low Light: Night vision may be compromised, making it hard to see in dimly lit environments.

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It’s important to remember that macular degeneration can vary in severity, and not everyone will experience all these symptoms. Regular eye check-ups with a qualified optometrist are crucial for early detection and management of the condition. If you or a loved one experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek professional eye care promptly to preserve vision and quality of life.

Dr. Kurt Jackson

Jackson Eye Care 22 Old Short Hills Road, Ste. 202 Livingston, NJ 07039 862-904-8349 www.jacksoneyecare.com February 2024 | SuburbanEssex.com | 47

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Reduce Stress W — for a —

Healthier Heart 48 | Suburban Essex | February 2024

While you can’t always limit the amount of stress in your life, you can work on changing how you respond to it.

Just like the automatic “fight or flight” response that kicks in when you’re scared – your muscles tense, heart rate increases, and brain becomes more alert – your body also has a built-in, healthy relaxation response. When that’s triggered, the opposite happens: your breathing and heart rate slow down, and your blood pressure decreases.

Luckily, with practice, you can learn to trigger that response.

Try these techniques on your own or find a teacher or class to help you get started. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get the hang of it quickly. And if one approach doesn’t work for you, try something new. You can learn to de-stress in lots of other ways.

• MEDITATION. One of the most studied approaches for managing stress, this involves developing your ability to stay focused on the present, instead of worrying about the past or future. Find a quiet location with as few distractions as possible. Get comfortable by either sitting, lying or walking.

Focus your attention on a specific word or set of words, an object or your breathing. And let distractions, including thoughts, come and go without judgment.

• PROGRESSIVE MUSCLE RELAXATION. To feel the effect, first tense your muscles for a few seconds, then relax them.

Start by tensing and relaxing your toes, then your calves and on up to your face. Do one muscle group at a time.

• DEEP BREATHING. Take in a slow, deep breath, let your stomach or chest expand and then exhale slowly. Repeat a few times. Many people don’t breathe deeply, but it is relaxing and something you can do anytime, anywhere.

• GUIDED IMAGERY. This involves a series of steps that include relaxing and visualizing the details of a calm, peaceful setting, such as a garden.

Getting your mind and body to a place of calm doesn’t always mean being still, however. Other healthy ways to manage stress include taking a yoga or tai chi class, talking to a professional counselor, joining a stress management program or an art class, or meeting up with friends for a brisk walk. Being in nature can be very soothing for some people.

Combining de-stressors like these with other healthy habits can go a long way toward strengthening your heart. Eat more veggies, fruits and whole grains, and less sodium, sugar and saturated fats, for example. Move your body more – like through dancing and walking meetings. Find exercises you actually love and do them regularly. Get enough good, quality sleep. And develop a strong social support system. Then rethink some of the familiar ways you may be coping with stress, such as drinking alcohol frequently, using drugs and other substances, smoking or overeating. They can actually worsen your stress – and your health.

Learn how to stress less for a healthier heart and more about heart health from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute by visiting www.nhlbi.nih.gov.

FOOTCARE

Personalized, Professional & Convenient Care for Your Retinal Problems.

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Specializes in Managing All Diseases of the Retina, Vitreous, and Macula including:

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At Cedar Grove Foot & Ankle Specialists, we provide innovative and compassionate care to get our patients back on their feet.

• Diabetic Retinopathy • Macular Degeneration

Dr. Matthew F. Wachtler, DPM, FACFAS is board certified in Foot Surgery and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Foot & Ankle Surgeons and a Fellow of the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons.

• Bunions • Corns and Calluses • Custom Orthotics • Diabetic Foot Care • Fall Risk Assessment • Flatfeet

• Haglund’s Deformity • Hammer Toe Treatment • Heel Pain • Ingrown Toenails • Morton’s Neuroma

• Plantar Fasciitis Treatment • Plantar Warts • Stress Fracture • Tendonitis • Toenail Fungus

• Retinal Detachment • Macular Holes • Ocular Trauma

Kurt T. Jackson, MD

Call for an Appointment | 973-857-1184

862-904-8349

882 Pompton Avenue, Suite B-1, Cedar Grove

22 Old Short Hills Road, Suite 202, Livingston, NJ

CedarGroveFoot.com

www.JacksonEyeCare.com February 2024 | SuburbanEssex.com | 49

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Dr. Rustagi

STEMMING THE TIDE OF NEARSIGHTEDNESS Preventative eye treatments for children

M

BY SUE BALDANI

“Myopia, or nearsightedness, has reached alarming levels both in the United States and globally, making it a critical public health concern,” says Dr. Saras Rustagi, optometrist and owner of Eye Care & Wear in Upper Montclair and Ridgewood.

“In the United States, recent statistics indicate a significant uptick in myopia cases among children, with a substantial portion of the population affected.”

In light of this issue, Dr. Rustagi has introduced the Oculus Myopia Master into his practice. This instrument is critical in identifying and monitoring myopia in children. “The Myopia Master advanced diagnostic tool utilizes sophisticated technology to precisely measure the degree of myopia, which enables our team

at Eye Care & Wear to tailor intervention strategies based on individual needs. He adds, “It also has predictive capabilities that play a crucial role in foreseeing how a child’s myopia may evolve over time. Preventative measures for children include annual eye exams, spending time outdoors, and limiting screen time.”

Dr. Rustagi also recommends patients to follow the AOA 20-20-20 Rule. For every 20 minutes of near focused work, take a 20 second blink break, and look into the distance, 20 feet away.

Dr. Rustagi founded his practice so that he and his staff could offer patients what is the best eye care, treatments, contacts, and glasses for people of all ages. “I’ve always wanted to do things

with a certain style and never wanted outside influences to govern the type of care I provide,” he says. “Plus, my mom had a lot of illnesses, and one of the things she always told me was, ‘You want to build the type of practice in which you would feel great about treating me.’ So, I proceeded with that family approach, which has been very successful.”

Upper Montclair Eye Care & Wear NJ 270OA00584500 211 Bellevue Avenue, Upper Montclair, NJ 973-707-5255 Ridgewood Eye Care & Wear NJ 270OA00584500 160 E Ridgewood Avenue, Ridgewood, NJ 201-652-8080

Our Goal is to Help You Discover What You Need to Make Your Life More Enjoyable.

Telemedicine Appointments Available Our Centers Offer: • Services for Children Dealing with School and Family Dynamics • Individual/Family/Couples/Children and Teen Therapy • Variety of Clinical Therapy Expertise • Most Insurances Accepted Dr. Christopher Barker,

Dr. Keith Morgen,

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862-242-3500 info@DiscoveryWellnessCenterNJ.com

1/2 Convenient day, evening and Saturday hours.

Please call or visit the website for more information.

973-796-3760 info@DiscoveryPsychCenter.com

New Address: 7 East Frederick Place, Suite 700, Cedar Knolls 50 | Suburban Essex | February 2024

www.DiscoveryPsychCenter.com

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

THE IMPORTANCE OF ORTHODONTIC SCREENING at an Early Age

D

Dr. Gi Gi Paralkar of Livingston Family Orthodontics says that one of the most common questions she receives from parents is, ‘When should my child see an orthodontist?’ Many times, an older sibling may already be in braces or Invisalign, but they are wondering about their younger kids. “I absolutely LOVE this question because I get the chance to demonstrate what problems an orthodontist looks to solve for children of different ages,” she says.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children be screened by an orthodontist by age 7. Once a child is 7 years old, an orthodontist expects to see specific adult teeth in your child’s mouth. An orthodontist may be able to tell just by looking at your child’s smile that your child has a thumb or finger sucking habit or breathes primarily through their mouth.

Orthodontists check to see if there is enough space for adult teeth to erupt properly or if there are speech problems due to a tongue tie or narrow palate. An orthodontist will make sure that front and back teeth are meeting together properly so jaw growth proceeds normally. There are some problems that require intervention on the earlier side to prevent bigger problems from occurring down the road if left unchecked.

In many cases, after an initial screening at age 7, your orthodontist may indicate that no intervention is needed in the present. They may ask you to bring your child every 6 to 12 months for an eruption check to make sure that the permanent teeth are on schedule. Your orthodontist will also communicate your child’s progress with your child’s dentist.

If you have concerns about your child’s teeth and their alignment or development, you should consider an orthodontic screening. The initial consultation can do so much to inform you and allow you to formulate a plan with your orthodontist to ensure the healthiest and most esthetic smile for your child.

Livingston Family Orthodontics 201 S Livingston Avenue, Set 2B Livingston, NJ 07039 973-758-8926 https://livingstonfamilyorthodontics.com February 2024 | SuburbanEssex.com | 51

DINING GUIDE It is recommend that you call in advance as reservations may be required.

BLOOMFIELD Bloomfield Steak and Seafood House 409 Franklin St, Bloomfield | 973-680-4500 eatbeefgethooked.com Offers a great dining experience within a cozy and elegant atmosphere, and friendly and attentive service. They feature flame-grilled certified Angus beef steaks and prime-cut meats, wetaged for 14 days.

Il Vecchio Cafe 234 Bloomfield Avenue, Caldwell 973-226-8889 | www.ilvecchiocafe.com Il Vecchio Café, offers high-quality Italian dishes in an open-concept dining room perfect for large groups and families The menu features a delicious selection of homemade pasta, entrees, panini, burgers, and salads in addition to pizzas, flatbreads, and calzones all made with natural, whole-grain semolina flour in our stone deck, wood burning oven.

La Famiglia Ristorante & Pizzeria 359 Bloomfield Ave, Caldwell | 973 226-3049 www.lafamigliaristorantepizzeria.com Italian restaurant

Bucco Italian-American Kitchen 61 Washington Street, Bloomfield 973-566-6100 | Buccobloomfield.com Offering innovative fine Italian American cuisine.

They are a BYOB establishment in the heart of the Bloomfield.

CALDWELL Cloverleaf Tavern

CEDAR GROVE LuNello 182 Stevens Ave, Cedar Grove 973-837-1660 | www.LuNello.com Since 1990, Chef Seger’s modern Italian flair mixed with traditional culinary skills has created a whirlwind of praise. Enticing presentation and courteous staff are integral to LuNello’s success.

The elegant setting is the perfect compliment to the menu. Whether dining in the Dining Room or enjoying a cocktail in the handsome bar, LuNello works to create the ultimate experience.

EAST HANOVER East Hanover Diner

La Taverna 234 Bloomfield Ave, Caldwell | 973-226-8889 www.calandrasitalianvillage.com/la-taverna/ Offering the perfect atmosphere for everything from a working lunch to a great night out. The beautifully appointed lounge features six large high definition flat panel televisions for your viewing pleasure. On Friday and Saturday evenings often feature live entertainment!

275 NJ State Highway 10, East Hanover 973-884-8840 | www.EastHanoverDiner.com Soup, salad, pasta, omelets, burgers and more.

Whatever the fare, they do it right. Bring the whole family to this delicious, neighborhood restaurant.

FAIRFIELD Antik Greek Kitchen

395 Bloomfield Ave, Caldwell | 973-226-9812 www.cloverleaftavern.com American cuisine in a family dining atmosphere.

Offering 24 beers on draft and over 75 bottled beers.

335 Fairfield Road, Fairfield | 862-210-8527 www.antikgreekkitchen.com Authentic Cuisine for Greek Lovers

Suburban Essex

Order Your Valentine’s Day and Super Bowl Treats

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275 NJ State Highway 10, East Hanover CALL FOR PICK-UP ORDERS: 973-884-8840

www.EastHanoverDiner.com Hours: Sunday-Thursday 6am-1am, Friday-Saturday 6am-2am 52 | Suburban Essex | February 2024

Your Local Neighborhood Bakery — KOSHER CERTIFIED —

973-320-9030

38 S.Livingston Ave, Livingston

www.SweetKneadsNJ.com

As Seen on the Cover of Bergen Magazine Calandra’s Mediterranean Grill Inside Hampton Inn Hotel 118 US Highway 46 East, Fairfield 973-575-6500 | www.calandrasmedgrill.com A family friendly restaurant offering Northern Italian dishes with a Mediterranean flair. The restaurant features an open kitchen, Tuscan themed dining room, lobby bar, outdoor seating.

Cucina Calandra 216 US Highway 46 East, Fairfield 973-575-7720 | www.cucinacalandra.com The “family kitchen” of Cucina Calandra provides classic Italian cuisine in a family-friendly environment. The menu centers on southern Italian cooking in a dining room reminiscent of an Italian courtyard. The dining room features a stone deck wood-burning oven and children can shape and decorate their own pizza. Pasta Night is featured on Tuesdays with pasta dishes and bottles of wines offered at half price.

11 Time BEST of ESSEX Winner!

• Award Winning Authentic Chinese Cuisine • Only Fresh Vegetables and Ingredients • Gluten-Free Dishes Available • Lunch Specials Every Day Except Holidays

T.S. Ma’s signature dish, Shanghai Ribs

Prime 94 Steakhouse & Grill 94 Fairfield Road, Fairfield 973-575-4555 / prime94steakhouse.com Combining tradition and elegance, Prime 94 serves the finest prime dry aged steaks. Perfect for celebrating special occasions, birthdays, private events or just a night on the town.

LITTLE FALLS Casa Arturo 75 Main Street , Little Falls | 973-837-8282 ArturoBistro.com Casa Arturo Bistro specializes in continental Italian cuisine from all regions of Italy. The restaurant offers a standard menu and focuses on homestyle cooking with a creative flair

Order Online: www.TSMACC.com 199 Bellevue Ave, Upper Montclair • 973.509.8878 Due to our kitchen expansion, there is no dine-in service

Available for Take Out and Delivery Only Dining Available in Wyckoff: 637 Wyckoff Ave, Wyckoff • 201.891.8878

BEST OUTDOOR DINING BRONZE WINNER!

Rare, The Steakhouse 440 Main St, Little Falls | 973-256-6699 www.RareSTK.com Serving award winning steaks cooked to every customer’s liking. Rare also serves an array of seafood, lamb, veal, poultry, fish, and pasta.

Guests are invited to unwind and relax, whether joining their lively bartenders at the generously sized bar or dining in with the attentive waitstaff in their Dining Room.

LIVINGSTON Assado Portuguese Steakhouse 222 N Livingston Avenue, Livingston 973-422-0501 | www.assadonj.com Assado is a BYOB welcoming our patrons to pair their desired wine with our traditional dishes. They also offer online ordering so you can enjoy our food from anywhere.

Boccone 471 W Mt Pleasant Ave, Livingston 973-378-9222 | www.bocconeristorante.com ancient, traditional recipes and authentic flavors of the Southern Mediterranean Region in Italy. BYOB.They accept phone reservations and take-out orders

The Feathered Fox 550 W Mt Pleasant Ave #1608, Livingston 973-994-4900 | www.thefeatheredfox.com Steak house, sushi & raw bar

NOW SERVING WEEKDAY SPECIALS!

CATERING ON AND OFF SITE | BYOB

973-422-0501

222 N. LIVINGSTON AVE, LIVINGSTON

www.AssadoNJ.com February 2024 | SuburbanEssex.com | 53

DINING GUIDE Lithos Estiatorio

Jack’s Surf and Turf

405 Eisenhower Parkway, Livingston 973-758-1111 | lithosgreek.com Greek Cuisine

718 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair 973-893-5283 | www.jacksurfturf.com Fish and seafood plus dishes for the landlubbers in your party. BYO Beer and Wine, free parking at the MAM lot.

Livingston Bagel 37 E. Northfield Road, Livingston 973-994-1915 | livingstonbagel.com Offering fresh baked bagels and deli food, meals to go. Catering and event planning available

Master Pizza 379 E Northfield Avenue, Livingston 973-992-4500 | masterpizzaonline.com Offering mouth-watering gourmet pizzas, they are known for keeping its menu fresh and varied, using only the finest quality ingredients.

Mezza Mediterranean 277 Eisenhower Pkwy, Livingston 973-992-9300 | www.mezzalivingston.com At Mezza Mediterranean, patrons will find a fusion of Old-World tradition and New World innovation to the palate.

Nana’s Deli 127 S Livingston Avenue, Livingston 973-740-1940 | www.nanadeli.com Stop by for lunch and experience the legacy they created for their Nana… and make sure to have the tuna.

Thavma Mediterranean Grill 6230 Town Center Way, 2nd Fl., Livingston 973-992-8999 | www.ThavmaGrill.com Thavma offers the best of the Mediterranean by combining Greek and Middle Eastern specialties to create an unforgettable dining experience.

Lunch and dinner served daily ,takeout and limited delivery service for dinner only. Call for details.

Meet Me At Madison’s

Mystic Lobster Roll

P.F. Seafood Restaurant

145 Valley Rd, Montclair | 973-457-2651 mysticlobsterrollsmontclair.com Lobster Rolls, Specialty Rolls, Lobster Tacos

Stuff by SJ 342 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair 973-771-6907 | www.stuffbysj.com Premium custom bake, coffee & treat shop

Sweet T’s Southern Eatery 387 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair 973-500-3452 | sweettsmontclair.com Healthy, Pork-free Southern Eatery

Walnut Street Kitchen 98 Walnut St, Montclair | 973-746-0789 www.walnutstreetkitchennj.com Inspired Italian

Efi’s Gyro 521 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair | 973-783-0005 www.efisgyro.com Authentic Greek Street Food.

54 | Suburban Essex | February 2024

WEST CALDWELL 1090 Bloomfield Avenue, West Caldwell 973-277-1007 www.pfseafoodrestaurant.com Bringing the freshest ingredients from wildcaught, organic and exotic fish and seafood to each and every plate. Open Mon-Sat for lunch and dinner, closed Sunday.

Mandara’s Ristorante and Pizzeria 40 Clinton Road, West Caldwell 973-226-3250 www.mandararistorante.com Italian cuisine

WEST ORANGE Chit Chat Diner

UPPER MONTCLAIR De Novo European Pub

The Highlawn

Marcel

103 Forest St, Montclair www.butlerandtheboard.com A one-of-a-kind specialty food shop focused on charcuterie—the art of making sausages, pates, and terrines. In addition to charcuterie the shop offers high-quality prepared foods… bone broth, soups, pickles and preserves. They offer Wednesday night dinners with the menu changing weekly.

706 Bloomfield Ave, Verona, | 609-248-4596 www.theparksidesocial.com classic American tavern

410 Eagle Rock Ave, West Orange 973-736-1989 www.chitchatdiner.com Classic American Diner

Liv Breads Artisan Bakery & Coffee Bar

Butler and the Board

648 Bloomfield Ave, Verona | 973-433-7256 www.bloomverona.com New American cuisine with French and Korean inspiration

Parkside Social

MILLBURN

MONTCLAIR

Bloom

121 Watchung Ave, Montclair | 973-604-2221 meetmeatmadisons.com Mediterranean with a Latin Influence. Cafe/Bistro serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and brunch on Sunday. Menu favorites: Dutch Country Chicken Sandwich, Popeye Short Pasta, Spicy Chilean Sea Bass, Avocado Toast. Gluten Free Available.

275 Bellevue Ave Montclair | 973-893-5008 www.denovomontclair.com European styled pub

184 Essex Street, Millburn Livbreads.com Offering all natural sourdough loaves, seasonal salads, and sandwiches, decadent babka, rugelach, croissants, and more.

VERONA

6311/2 Valley Rd, Upper Montclair 973-842-4086 www.marcelbakeryandkitchen.com Mediterranean cuisine

TS Ma Chinese Cuisine 199 Bellevue Ave, Upper Montclair 973-509-8878 | www.TSMACC.com T.S. Ma presents a menu that features top-notch Chinese fare that focuses on serving the freshest, healthiest, and most authentic Chinese cuisine available. They only cook with fresh vegetables and cholesterol and trans-fat free canola oil. Take out and delivery only in Upper Montclair (dining room in Wyckoff location). Visit the website for online ordering. They also specialize in catering for all occasions.

Eagle Rock Reservation, 1 Crest Drive, West Orange | 973-731-3463 www.highlawn.com American Cuisine

MamaDags 410 St. Cloud Ave, West Orange 862-233-7557 | www.MamaDags.com Mama Dag’s proudly serves elevated Italian seafood-focused fare in a casual, convivial setting reminiscent of an old-school NYC clam bar.

Guests appreciate the level of flavor and quality in each menu item, since everything is made in-house, as fresh and homemade as it can be: meats and fish from the best purveyors; cocktails all hand-crafted.

Primavera 500 Pleasant Valley Way | West Orange 973-669-0966 www.primaverawestorange.com Traditional Italian Cuisine.

The Best of Essex

RESOURCE DIRECTORY Visit us online at BestofEssex.com

Day Care/PreSchool.

Brainiax Innovative Learning Center offers small group enrichment classes in the comfort of your backyard or at their Livingston center. Their program presents S.T.E.[A].M/hands-on learning programs for Kindergarten through 5th grade. In addition, they have a preschool and afternoon baby and toddler classes.

Brainiax Innovative Learning

Acupuncture.

Acupuncture is a complementary medicine that helps a myriad of ailments. Dr. Margaret Amireh, DACM, L.Ac is an accredited and board certified Acupuncturist with experience treating over 250 conditions. Some insurance accepted. For additional information, please call them at 973-304-1506

Balanced Body Acupuncture 792 Pompton Ave, Cedar Grove | 973-304-1506 www.balancedbodyacupuncture.com

Barre Class.

A boutique fitness studio that provides the most effective barre workout. The signature method uses your own body weight, the ballet barre and a few props to create a transformative workout that results in long, lean sculpted muscles.

The Bar Method 493 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair 973-783-1227 | barmethod.com/locations/montclair

Bike Shop.

Windsor Plaza, 160 S. Livingston Avenue Suite 112, Livingston | 973-577-7055 | www.brainiaxnj.com

Day Spa. A free-standing hair salon and wellness facility whose mission is to create a balance of beauty and wellness in a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere.

Dieci Lifestyle Spa 90 W. Mt. Pleasant Avenue, Livingston 973-716-0101 | www.diecispa.com A Touch of WellBeing is a Wellness Spa designed to provide a calming and stress-relieving atmosphere, allowing you to shift from your everyday routine and re-focus on yourself. Services include Facials, Body Treatments, Massages, and Spa Parties. Gift Certificates available for purchase. Keep up-to-date with monthly specials on our website, and don’t forget to leave us a Google Review.

A Touch of Wellbeing

97 Roseland Avenue, Caldwell, NJ 07006 | 973-228-4289 www.atowbnj.com

Eye Care.

Serving the local biking community since 1973. Shop Montclair Bikery for all kinds of bikes, including road, electric and mountain bikes, parts, helmets clothing and accessories. Service and repairs offered, too. Sponsors of Montclair Cyclists, a place for the local cycling community to come together and ride.

Upper Montclair Eye Care and Wear is your one-stop shop for the best eye care and and the finest selection of eyewear. They provide high quality, comprehensive, personalized and affordable vision care, as well as emergency eye care. You can also receive contact lens fittings. Now also specializing in the first and only FDA approved Light Therapy Treatment for dry eye which also adds Aesthetic benefits!

Montclair Bikery

Upper Montclair Eye Care & Wear

148 Valley Rd., Montclair | 973-744-7252 www.montclairbikery.com

211 Bellevue Avenue, Upper Montclair 973-707-5255 | eyecareandwear.com

Boutique Bakery.

Jayce Baudry French Pastry specializes in producing artisanal gourmet desserts. The French pâtisserie creates a wide range of sweets & elegant desserts with a twist, including wedding cakes, croquembouches, macaron towers and custom celebration cakes.

Jayce Baudry French Pastry 17 Church Street, Montclair | 973-531-6464 www.jaycebaudry.com

Chiropractor.

The Chiropractic Source, founded by Drs. Marco Ferrucci and Tim Lyons specializes in Chiropractic BioPhysics (CBP) and Softwave Therapy. CBP is a leading spinal corrective care that includes postural corrective adjustments, exercises and traction. SoftWave Therapy helps identify and decrease inflammation, improves blood flow and promotes stem cell healing for joints, muscles, ligaments and tendons. This combination of care, allows them to be your source for the best in health and regeneration.

Contact their office to learn more about how their care may help you!

The Chiropractic Source 388 Pompton Ave, Cedar Grove | 973-228-0500 www.thechiropracticsource.com

A Touch of WellBeing

HVAC. Multiple award-winning provider of high-quality heating and air conditioning equipment—with sales, installations, repairs and maintenance service for residential and commercial customers. They take pride in delivering superior customer service and were voted Best HVAC contractor in Essex County nine years in a row. They also sell, install and provide maintenance service on home standby generators and air purification systems. NJ ELEC LIC#11850B HVAC-R LIC# 19HC00144800

Bloomfield Cooling & Heating 127 Paterson Avenue, Little Falls | 973-237-0505 www.BloomfieldCooling.com

Interior Design.

For nearly 25 years, Richard Bailey Interiors, LLC has provided discriminating clients with custom residential interiors designed to deliver lasting elegance and true livability. Installed in residences throughout the New York tri-state region and beyond, the full-service firm’s one-of-kind designs interpret each client’s unique vision with a sophisticated design aesthetic, attention to detail and exceptional quality.

Richard Bailey Interiors, LLC 973-429-2106 | www.richardbaileyinteriors.com

February 2024 | SuburbanEssex.com | 55

Jewelry.

Walter Bauman is a full-service, fine jewelry store with expert jewelers and watchmakers available for all your jewelry-repair needs.

Walter Bauman 653 Eagle Rock Avenue, West Orange 973-731-3155 | www.walterbauman.com

Landscaping.

K. Macken Landscaping offers complete landscaping, lawn maintenance, and construction by a fully insured company with a knowledgeable and experienced staff.

Plus, their locally owned and operated company always gives the most competitive prices.

K. Macken Landscaping West Caldwell | 973-261-0198 www.kmackenlandscaping.com

Lawyer.

The attorneys at Cipriano Law Offices, PC work as a team to carefully examine the circumstance of your individual case. They are qualified family law mediators and trained in collaborative law, in addition to having a vast amount of litigation experience, including: high net worth divorce, equitable distribution, alimony, child support, custody, adoptions, prenuptial agreements, domestic violence matters, Division of Child Protection and Permanency.

Cipriano Law Offices, PC 175 Fairfield Avenue, Suite 4C/D, West Caldwell | 973-403-8600 www.CiprianoLaw.com

Learning/Tutoring Center.

Teacher Tutors offers an individualized experience with tutoring and test prep services in the comfort of your home or at their Livingston center. Whether your child is in elementary, middle or high school—even college, Teacher Tutors can match all students with the perfect tutor. Teacher Tutors help students attain their goals, gain self-confidence, and acquire solid study techniques to ensure success in the future.

Teacher Tutors, LLC

New Jersey Plastic Surgery is the premier surgery practice in the greater Essex County area for the past 30 year.

Dr. Barry DiBernardo, Medical Director, is recognized as a leader in plastic surgery and has been named one of the best plastic surgeons in America. Dr. Barry DiBernardo provides quality care with the best possible results. The highly professional staff at New Jersey Plastic Surgery are always attentive to your needs and concerns and are committed to helping you get the look you want.

New Jersey Plastic Surgery glö–The Aestetic Experience 29 Park Street, Montclair | 973-509-2000 www.newjerseyplasticsurgery.com

Orthodontist.

We love treating children and adults of all ages! Our office specializes in braces and Invisalign to help improve your smile and your dental health in a comfortable and convenient setting. Start your journey towards the smile you’ve always dreamed of! Specializing in braces and Invisalign for children and adults. We love creating beautiful and lasting smiles!

Livingston Family Orthodontics 201 S. Livingston Avenue, Suite 2B, Livingston | 973-758-8926 www.LivingstonFamilyOrthodontics.com Dr. Eric Sacks believes that Livingston families really can have it all—the most advanced orthodontic treatment options, a truly state-of-the-art, all-digital facility, and personalized care and attention from board-certified orthodontic specialists.

Sacks Orthodontics 41 N. Livingston Avenue, Livingston | 973-251-2265 www.SacksOrtho.com

Physical Therapy.

Offering many different treatment programs and methods and working with patients to help them improve their quality of life and mobility so they can get back to doing what they love.

CEM Physical Therapy 645 Bloomfield Avenue, Verona | 973-944-2012 https://cemtherapy.org

973-31-STUDY | www.theteachertutors.com

Medical Spa. Specializing in injections (Botox, Dysport, Fillers), Coolsculpting, PRP Procedures, Body Contouring, Microblading, Microneedling, Vaginal Rejuvenation and other Spa services,all to help clients “Look and Feel your Best.”

Montclair Rejuvenation Center One Mt. Prospect Ave., Verona | 862 284 3747 761 Bloomfield Ave., West Caldwell | 973 650-3204 11917 Southern Blvd, Ste. 200, Royal Palm Beach, FL | 561-878-1282 www.montclairrejuvenationcenter.com

JAG-ONE Physical Therapy is a comprehensive physical and occupational therapy company with locations throughout New Jersey, Brooklyn, Staten Island, Queens, Manhattan, Westchester and Pennsylvania. Their multi-specialty staff has been serving the Tri-State area for over 20 years and has developed a unique, care-first model of rehabilitation delivering high quality clinical outcome for their patients.

JAG-ONE Physical Therapy Convenient Locations throughout New Jersey, New York & Pennsylvania West Orange: 973-669-0078 | Fairfield: 862-702-3420 | jagonept.com The core mission of Dr. De Hoyos, DPT is to provide a positive clinical atmosphere, conducive for healing and fostering a healthy consciousness in each patient to facilitate meeting and exceeding their physical therapy goals as well as clinical outcomes.

LightPort Physical Therapy & Spa 355 Bloomfield Ave, Caldwell | 973-228-0072 www.lightportpt.com

56 | Suburban Essex | February 2024

Restaurant.

Eat beef and get hooked is the motto of this family-owned steakhouse. The restaurant features flame-grilled certified Angus Beef steaks and prime-cut meats, wet-aged for 14 days.

Bloomfield Steak and Seafood House 409 Franklin Street, Bloomfield | 973-680-4500 www.eatbeefgethooked.com La Famiglia Ristorante & Pizzeria never fails to impress with outstanding food. They offer authentic Italian flavors, made with the finest ingredients and brought to perfection. The menu includes a variety of pizzas, seafood dishes, sandwiches, salads & more. They also provide catering services for your events and occasions

La Famiglia Ristorante & Pizzeria 359 Bloomfield Ave, Caldwell | 973-226-3049 www.LaFamigliaRistorantePizzeria.com Master Pizza sprouted in Livingston in 1990 as a familyowned and operated business. Pizza lovers lined up for for fast service, fresh ingredients and delicious pizza! As the love for pizza grew, so did they. Now there are four convenient locations throughout northern New Jersey, keeping the tradition alive. Over 30 years later, They still keep the promise of being fast, fresh, and delicious!

Master Pizza 379 E. Northfield Rd., Livingston | 973-992-4500 41 Freeman St., West Orange | 973-669-6777 www.MasterPizzaOnline.com

La Famiglia Ristorante & Pizzeria is a welcoming family restaurant offering authentic Italian classics and pizza.

Their menu includes a variety of appetizing pizzas, seafood dishes, pastas, sandwiches and salads. You can bring your own wine or beer to enjoy with your meal at the restaurant, or order your food for take-out or delivery. La Familia offers catering and you can reserve their private party room for special events. They are open seven days a week.

One of their signature dishes creating a lot of local pizza buzz is the Square Rosa Grande Pepperoni pie, a thin or thick crust square pizza loaded with cupping pepperoni and drizzled with Mike’s hot honey.

La Famiglia won the bronze medal for Best Italian Restaurant for two years in a row.

Our readers really enjoy the food, friendly service and Italian charm of La Familia.

La Famiglia Ristorante & Pizzeria 359 Bloomfield Ave, Caldwell | 973 226 3049 www.lafamigliaristorantepizzeria.com

A flavorful Italian Seafood restaurant conveniently located just east and across the street from the Turtleback Zoo. Inspired by family traditions, Anthony Dagostino wanted to bring back the old school clam house experience. True to tradition, The recipes are simple and authentic using only the freshest catch and ingredients. The personable staff, ample portions and robust flavors have gained them a loyal local community of regulars. Bring an appetite!

Mamma Dags Seafood & Pasta Bar 410 St. Cloud Avenue, West Orange | 862-233-7557 www.mamadags.com

Psychotherapy.

Be Well Psychotherapy consists of a team of 8 therapists.

Each therapist brings something remarkable to the center. Offering individuals and adolescents grief and bereavement counseling, as well couples and family counseling.

Be Well Psychotherapy 175 Fairfield Avenue, Suite 1C, West Caldwell 973-886-8300 | www.bewellcaldwell.com

Senior Community.

Job Haines Home is a care facility specializing in long-term care, sub acute care, respite care, and assisted living.

Throughout its history, Job Haines Home has emphasized three core values as the heart of its mission: DIGNITY, INDEPENDENCE, and INDIVIDUALITY for its residents. The management and staff incorporate these elements into all aspects of life at Job Haines.

Job Haines Home 250 Bloomfield Avenue, Bloomfield 973-743-0792 | job-haines.org Be Well Psychotherapy has won the 2023 Gold Medal for Best Wellness Provider in our Best of Essex Reader’s Choice.

Focusing on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Be Well Psychotherapy treats adults and teens, and offers grief and behavioral counseling, as well as couples and family counseling.

Be Well offers video-based tele-mental health services. Tele-Sessions are an option with greater flexibility for individuals unable to leave their home, those vacationing, or traveling for work.

Be Well’s Owner, Lauren Taibi, has put together a team of eight talented therapists.

Each of the them brings something special to the center. A client shares, “I am so grateful to the entire staff at Be Well for providing a safe, warm and healing environment that has become our “hive of healing”. They are truly the most incredible team and we thrive because of them.”

Be Well Psychotherapy West Caldwell Office Park 175 Fairfield Avenue - Suite 1C, West Caldwell, NJ 07006 973-886-8300 (call/text) www.bewellcaldwell.com

Dieci Lifestyle Spa offers a complete range of hair and make-up offerings, as well a full menu of spa services.

The 13,000-squarefoot space in Livingston has recently experienced an elegant renovation. Dieci has also added new wellness services like their salt lounge that offers clients halotherapy treatments and a new infrared sauna. The vision and passion of founders and owners Paul and Marie Gaglioti has guided evolution of the award-winning spa.

Dieci recently partnered with local plastic surgeon, Dr. Paul Figlia to offer high-end medical grade medi-spa services such as fillers and Botox, and other non-invasive treatments.

Dieci Lifestyle Spa provides superior salon, beauty and wellness treatments to clients seeking high level skin care technology, innovative treatments and products and exceptional spa services.

Dieci Lifestyle Spa 90 W Mt Pleasant Ave, Livingston 973-716-0101 | www.Diecispa.com @diecilifestylespa

February 2024 | SuburbanEssex.com | 57

DIAMOND MINDS

INVINCIBLE

T

BY BARRY FARBER

This month I had the honor to speak with a living legend. Vince Papale, who was a walk on for the Philadelphia Eagles and who Mark Wahlberg played in the movie Invincible, just received the Living Legend Award by The Philadelphia Sports Writers. Invincible was one of my favorite inspirational movies along with Rudy. I remember taking my boys to the movie and right after the movie around 11pm we went home and picked up a football and drove to the high school field to throw it around. We all thought we were running the 50-yard dash as fast as Vince while we leaped and caught the football with one hand. Ok…maybe just my boys did that. We were so pumped up and inspired by the story.

Barry Farber: If there is one thing, I’ve learned from all your achievements including your walk-on performance with the Philadelphia Eagles is that you have tremendous tenacity driven by passion and vision. Can you tell me how your tenacity started in the very beginning?

Vince Papale: It had to be something that I was surrounded with early in my life and that certainly came from my parents. My mother was a great athlete and my father was a great athlete. However, they were both one of nine and growing up during the Great Depression and prior to World War Two. After the war was over and I was born, their work ethics were incredible. My mom worked as a volunteer and my father worked on the river at Westinghouse.

Their hard work was an asset that I was exposed to early on. They would never let me not finish something that I started.

That was part of the house rule.

BF: How has that work ethic and tenacity impacted your life’s work?

VP: If I extend that to my life now… I’m 77 and still nowhere near retired. When I was with the Eagles, I had to be tenacious because they were coming at me from all angles because they didn’t like my style of play. It was a little different than the style of play back then. Most wide receivers were soft and didn’t have that tenacious attitude where you would hit anything that moved kind of attitude.. Being tenacious is something that’s been ingrained in my life. I’ve been surrounded by tenacious people including my wife, Janet. Nobody works harder than her. In the movie they have her as a Giants fan but Janet was a world class gymnast on the USA world gymnastics team. There were six sisters in her family that were all gymnasts and she was the one who was told that she would be the one taking them to practice because she had the least talent of them all. And she’s the only one in that family that ended up wearing USA on her jersey.

So, it’s something that’s ingrained in our house as well.

BF: One of my favorite quotes is: “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard”.

VP: I like that one! Dick Vermeil has a similar quote…” An opportunity is worth to a person exactly what their preparation enables them to make it”. I didn’t see that quote prior to me going out for the Eagles but I think I was the example of that quote when I found out I had that shot. I was ready to go 30 years old or not. I just needed the opportunity.

BF: Any other advice that the readers would appreciate about what you practice every day?

VP: More than anything, I refuse to give up. People told me it couldn’t be done.

I’m looking at a picture now of coach, Dick Vermeil when we were at the premiere of the movie Invincible and the absolute joy in our faces.

BF: Many people think they are tenacious and just keep getting setbacks and rejected. Any advice for them?

VP: Sometimes they might need someone around them that could give them encouragement to get through that. It could be a mentor. It could be the partner, the wife, the friend, the sister, brother or whoever it might be. What I tell people is that it’s not always perfect. I feel vulnerable sometimes but I surround myself with a group of very positive people and refuse to have the negativity seep in. When I was trying out for the Eagles, everyone said you’re too old and it’s never been done before. You’re too old, you never played college football… what are you crazy! It’s all about achieving that impossible dream and you can’t do it alone. Everybody says it takes teamwork to make the dream work.

BF: What’s your definition of success today?

VP: Doing something that somebody said was impossible to do.

BARRY FARBER is a best-selling author, an award winning radio and television host as well as an agent and marketing consultant for corporations, professional athletes, and entertainers. He’s also the creator and marketer of the FoldzFlat® Pens. His latest release is an inspirational children’s book “In search of the magic tree” available at www.barryfarber.com. Follow him @barryfarberofficial.

58 | Suburban Essex | February 2024

“Come participate in the many recreational opportunities available for people of all ages as you enjoy the Essex County experience. You can learn about conservation and animals through exciting hands-on activities while visiting Essex County Turtle Back Zoo or our Environmental Center. Youngsters will have a fun-filled adventure when they attend one of our affordable camps at either facility. For a great physical challenge, hit the ice at Codey Arena in our ice skating camps. Every day brings something new in Essex!”

– JOSEPH N. DIVINCENZO, JR.

Essex County Turtle Back Zoo

560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange 973-731-5800 www.essexcountynj.org/turtlebackzoo

2024 CAMP PROGRAMS SPRING BREAK 1: Tuesday, March 26; Wednesday, March 27; Thursday, March 28 (each day has a unique curriculum) SPRING BREAK 2: Tuesday, April 2; Wednesday, April 3; Thursday, April 4 (each day has a unique curriculum) SUMMER CAMP: Weekly starting Monday, June 24 through Friday, August 30 Join us at Turtle Back Zoo for some wild fun! To further our mission of conservation, education and stewardship, campers will be introduced to the extraordinary world of animals, nature and science. Children will enjoy age-appropriate camp activities that include games, teacher-led lessons, behind-behind-the-scenes tours, up-close animal encounters, hands-on science demonstrations and fun crafts.

Drop off time for all camps is at 9am; pick-up is at 4pm. Summer Camp has an option to register for extended care. Summer camp curriculum is repeated weekly; most campers sign-up for one week.

Registration opens in March. For more information, visit turtlebackzoo.com/discover/zoo-camps/.

Essex County Codey Arena 560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange 973-731-3828 www.essexcountynj.org/codeyarena

SUMMER FIGURE SKATING CAMP The camp runs seven weeks from June 24 to August 9 Basic Skills 3 and up for ages 5-15 Full Day: 8:00am – 3:15pm | Half Day: 8:00am – 12:00pm Camp includes on-ice and off-ice training, yoga, arts & crafts, zoo trips and much more. There is a 10% discount for families with more than one child enrolled in the program during the same week.

Essex County Environmental Center

621B Eagle Rock Avenue, Roseland 973-228-8776 www.essexcountynj.org/environmentalcenter

SPRING CAMP Tuesday, April 2; Wednesday, April 3; Thursday, April 4; 9:30am to 3:30pm For children ages 6-10. Restore the bond between children and nature. Children will have the opportunity to explore nature at the center’s varied habitats, which include the forest, wetland, pond and river. Pre-registration and payment required either in person, by mail or online at www.essexcountyparks.org/calendar. $210 per child for all three days OR $85 per child/per day

WILDERNESS SKILLS SUMMER CAMP Monday, July 8 to Friday, July 12; 1:30-4:30pm For grades 5 to 8. Join Senior Staff Naturalist David Alexander for some exciting lessons in outdoor skill building. Participants will identify wild plants, learn to track animals, create fires, go canoeing, make natural cordage, build shelters and much more!

Advance registration is required. $300 per child/per week

NATURE EXPLORERS SUMMER CAMP July 8 to July 19, Grades Pre-K & Kindergarten; 9:30am to 12:30pm July 22 to August 2, Grades 1 and 2; 9:30am to 1:30pm August 5 to August 16, Grades 3 and 4; 9:30am to 1:30pm Enjoy exploring and discovering woodland and river habitats for insects, birds, amphibians, Lenape life and much more. Sign up for one or two weeks per grade level. Advance registration is required. $210 per child/per week for Pre-K and K, $230 per child/per week for Grades 1 and 2; $250 per child/per week for Grades 3 and 4.

See a complete list of events at: www.essexcountynj.org The Essex County Park System was created in 1895 and is the first county park system established in the United States.

The Park System consists of more than 6,000 acres and has 23 parks, five reservations, an environmental center, a zoo, Treetop Adventure Course, ice skating rink, roller skating rink, three public golf courses, golf driving range, two miniature golf courses, six off-leash dog facilities, a castle and the Presby Memorial Iris Gardens.

Advertisement supported with a grant from the Essex County Parks Foundation, a private 501(c)3 organization dedicated to supporting and promoting the Essex County Parks System. Not printed at taxpayers’ expense.

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