Suburban Essex

Suburban Essex March 2022

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Suburban Essex

TABLE of CONTENTS

MARCH 2022

MARCH 2022

VOL. 30 NO. 2

David J. Black FOUNDER & CEO

Cathleen M. Black PRESIDENT & COO

10 Inside Essex

Michael J. Reidy

News and Happenings in the Area

ART DIRECTOR

Vanice Gage Donegan

12 Local Heros

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

12 Livingston High School’s LAYA Club Helps Get Asian history Curriculum Laws Passed 13 Montclair’s Laptop Upcycle Provides Free Refurbished Computers to Children in Need

30 Art of Essex

30

Fernando Mariscale: A Modern Day Impressionist

34 Summer Camp 2022 Spotlights

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

Amy Schwartz Donna Stanul MARKETING CONSULTANTS

38 Freshen Up Your Indoor Spaces

Daniel Epstein SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER

23

23 Prompt, Efficient, Honest & Reliable Service: Champion Waste Removal, Inc. 26 Show Your Best You

39 Local Gift Guide Support Local Merchants…

Shop Local

40 Cover Story Leading with Personalized Care and a Hands-On Approach to Healing

27 Important for 2021 Tax Returns

44 Women in Business 2022 Special Section

29 Neuropathy Breakthrough

65 Health, Wellness 65 Women in STEM: Invisible No More 66 Building Strength Effortlessly 67 The Benefits of Float Therapy 68 Easing Children’s Fear of Water and What to Look for in Swim Classes 70 Sleeping Positions Pros & Cons 71 Hear Better, Live Better

72 Restaurant Guide 76 Best of Essex Resource Directory On the Cover: Dr. John De Hoyos, DPT, LightPort Physical Therapy & Spa Photo by Venture Studios

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78 Diamond Minds The Early Years…

March 2022

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, Glen Ridge, Livingston, Montclair, North Caldwell, Roseland, Upper Montclair, Verona, West Caldwell, West Orange

NEXT ISSUE: April 2022 Advertising Deadline: 03/15/22 In-Homes: 04/01/22 For calendar submissions email: Calendar@VicinityMail.com For editorial suggestions email: Editorial@VicinityMail.com Call for info: 973-276-1688

SuburbanEssex.com 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

Sustainable Marketplace App Launches

W

est Orange resident Balaji Santhanam is on a mission to reduce the amount of waste the clothing industry produces by creating a marketplace called Recyck (pronunciation: ‘Re-Psych’). Recyck provides a ‘Repair As a Service’ for mending used clothing and also creates limited edition upcycled products. The marketplace app, which is in production, is designed to pair consumers with tailors, upcyclers, and designers that can repair clothing or create new upcycled products with used clothing. Balaji plans to make the transition seamless, calling his app the “Uber of fashion sustainability.” He says, “The fashion industry is responsible for 6-10% of greenhouse gas emissions, 20% of water pollution and that it produces 150 billion units of clothing annually for the 7.5 billion people on earth, where 85% goes to landfill. Recyck’s first item to drop is a crossover bag made completely with used clothing. It can be purchased on Facebook @Recyck and on Instagram @RecyckNow.

Montclair Resident Releases Album with Mental Health Theme

Livingston High School Graduate Crochets for Charity

S

inger-songwriter Jason Didner, of Montclair, has released his newest album called, “Salt and Sand – Rock Songs to Heal the Mind.” The songs offer listeners a sense of optimism during hard times and touch on topics like self-care, compassion, kindness, exercise, mindfulness and more.

He recently held an album launch concert with 20% of the night’s proceeds donated to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). This is not Jason’s first foray into the music world. He has two children’s and family albums under his belt, and performs at parties, libraries, and preschools. He says making music is his medicine, “Creating a song is the first dose, listening to it is the second, and hearing it with others is a booster shot.” He is glad to know his listeners are benefitting from all he has learned set to music. The album is available for download or streaming.

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Suburban Essex

March 2022

J

ill Koretz Volarich, a 1989 graduate of Livingston High School, has been crocheting for charitable groups for 30 years.

Her beautiful baby and adult hats, headbands, ear warmers, and blankets are donated to organizations with “good pay it forward, pass along programs,” including Warm Up America, which donates to the homeless and people in need; Knots of Love, which donates to cancer patients; Hat Not Hate, which collects blue hats for schools to raise awareness for bullying prevention; Table of Hope, which donates to people in Morris County; and to local fundraisers and raffles such as the Love Like Ashley Memorial Fund. She also sells her items upon request. Self-taught, she learned how to crochet in college and spends many nights and weekends crocheting. Jill says she finds donating her items to be rewarding and that she likes to give back anonymously.

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Livingston Resident’s Album About Love

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ivingston resident Jared Wohl has released a full-length album called “The Road.” While he used to release music under the name, Farewell Luna, he is now on a new road as a singer-songwriter, and this is his first full-length album. The soulful singer describes the album as having a 2000’s raw and natural vibe of pop rock wrapped around rhythmic guitar and soulful vocal melodies. The songs are about love – where one is at, heading, and who they are with. Selftaught, the father of two boys under the age of three, says that pre-pandemic, he used to play live shows and plans to get back to performing live in the future. He says that what he loves about music is that “it brings people together, which is something we all need right now.” The album is available via jaredwohl.com, Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon, YouTube and SoundCloud.

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Montclair Fourth Grader is Podcast Co-Host

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ontclair fourth grader, Amaya Goodrich, is cohosting a family-friendly podcast called, We Wanna Talk Podcast, with Deborah Quibell, a published author and doctor of depth psychology. Within the first-year’s sevenepisode series, topics have run the gamut from New Year’s resolutions to kindness, dealing with big emotions, inner beauty, meditation and more. The hosts also tell stories and sing songs. The segments are short so kids can listen in the car on the way home from school or to afterschool activities. However, it is more than a podcast as there is a curated journal and blog to go along with it that the over 3,000 listeners can use to make deep connections and open dialogues. Some of the segments are scripted, and there is also a call-in segment with questions for Amaya to answer. Amaya says she loves doing the podcast, which she hopes educates, entertains, and empowers listeners.

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11

Local Heroes

Livingston High School’s LAYA Club Helps Get Asian History Curriculum Laws Passed

By Jackie Schatell

R

ecently, New Jersey became the second state in the US to pass laws integrating Asian American history into the public-school curriculum.

Members of Livingston High School’s (LHS) Livingston AAPI Youth Alliance (LAYA) club were very involved in getting the bills passed. Bill S4021/A6100, created the AAPI (Asian American Pacific Islanders) curriculum requirement for schools, and S3764/A3369, established a Commission for Asian American Heritage within the State Department of Education.

LAYA was the first such school group to partner with Make Us Visible NJ (MUVNJ) to advocate for the laws.

LAYA members: LHS senior Russell Fan, founder, and president; senior Eric Dalangin, co-vice president; senior Eshaan Mahajan, co-vice president; junior Hannah Kim, core member; and sophomore Hannah Mattam, core member, went above and beyond to advocate for the passing of the bills.

They presented speeches on MUVNJ webinars, created, and posted videos to over a dozen advocacy social media platforms, emailed NJ State Legislators, created, and presented written and video testimonies to NJ Senate and Assembly Education Committees and spoke with Livingston officials and community leaders on a regular basis. Fan’s testimony was read in front of the Senate Education Committee hearing and the Assembly Education Committee.

The LAYA members are thrilled that the laws were passed and eagerly await seeing the AAPI’s rich culture and history added to the school curriculums. With the increased prejudice in today’s climate for Asian American Pacific Islanders, the group feels that learning about the cultures will increase acceptance and understanding within the classrooms.

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Suburban Essex

Pictured here from left are LAYA members Eshaan Mahajan, Russell Fan, Hannah Mattam and Hannah Kim. Not pictured is Eric Dalangin.

Mattam said that many AAPI individuals have been part of American history and deserve to have their stories told.

Mahajan agreed and said it is important to educate people about the challenges faced by the AAPI population. Kim said she advocated for the passage of the bills to create an environment of acceptance.

And, Dalangin said he feels learning about AAPI history is important for future generations.

Fan was quoted in Governor Murphy’s press release about the passing of the legislation. He said, “I am looking forward to having New Jersey schools include Asian American history and contributions in the public-school curriculum. We will March 2022

be able to feel more visible and safer, and that we are valued in our shared history, in the country we have built and continue to build together. The most important result of these legislations, moving forward, is that it will set the stage for inspiring more younger students to participate and contribute to the movement.”

Fan, Mahajan and Dalangin will be graduating high school this year and hope to inspire new members to join LAYA and carry on their efforts.

Local Heroes

Montclair’s Laptop Upcycle Provides Free Refurbished Computers to Children in Need

By Jackie Schatell

T

here is a wonderful resource in Montclair for older schoolchildren who don’t have a home computer.

Laptop Upcycle, located at 60 S. Fullerton Ave., provides free upcycled laptops to local students, and to some schools and teachers in Orange, Bloomfield, Jersey City, Newark, and Paterson. Since 2016, they’ve provided laptops to over 1,100 kids, with over 150 of them also receiving free Wi-Fi, for five years.

Mike Brown, strategic director of the nonprofit, says the idea for Laptop Upcycle came from a chance conversation at a school event where co-founder Sarah Damaskos asked another mom what type of computer her son would need for high school.

The parent said her child was using her smart phone because the family couldn’t afford a computer. Sarah reached out to the Montclair community for help.

Jon Bonesteel, another co-founder, had a laptop he wasn’t using anymore and together they delivered that first laptop to the family. “The rest is, as the say, history,” says Mike.

“We came to understand that there is a gigantic technology gap for kids in our schools. Students without access to a home computer are scrambling to get their homework done and communicate with teachers,” says Mike. “There are a lot of deserving kids in need, and they would never think to ask for a laptop to get their schoolwork done. Similarly, there are so many people and corporations with unneeded laptops that would never think they could give them away securely and safely to a deserving someone. We marry these give/get opportunities.”

Since 2016, Laptop Upcycle has received nearly 2,000 laptop donations, diverting over three tons of landfill e-waste. The organization’s eBay store sells parts recovered from unusable donations.

Laptop Upcycle high school volunteers, Miles Fessenden, Samantha Stulbaum, and Maxime Malaussena test laptops to get them ready for their new owners.

Laptops that kids get from Laptop Upcycle are 100% free of cost and are loaded with license-free, student-ready software. Mike says, “Laptop Upcycle doesn’t track usage in any way. The laptop is theirs to keep because school success depends on it.”

The organization is 100% volunteer run and is actively looking for more volunteers. In addition to the adult volunteers, there has been over 3500 volunteer hours put into the program by more than 135 high school kids who meet twice a week to refurbish laptops. No experience is necessary as volunteers get trained to securely purge data, install new student-ready software, and test donated laptops for other kids.

March 2022

While Laptop Upcycle’s primarily focus is on high school and middle school students, Laptop Upcycle at Ramapo College was recently formed to service that college age community. For areas outside their geography, Laptop Upcycle works with the Alliance for Technology Refurbishing and Reuse, a national consortium of organizations that are likewise committed to closing the digital divide while promoting a green planet.

To become a volunteer, donate or apply for a laptop, go to laptopupcycle.org. All donations are tax deductible. If you’ve got other questions, please contact Mike via email at mb@laptopupcycle.org.

MySuburbanEssex.com

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Local Buzz

Open Book/Open Mind Online

M

ontclair Public Library presents Open Book/Open Mind Online, a popular long-running author conversation series. Each discussion is followed by an audience Q&A. The Open Book/Open Mind series is presented by the Montclair Public Library with the generous support of The Montclair Public Library Foundation, The Investors Foundation, and watchung booksellers.

Since the series went online in 2020, it has hosted Isabel Wilkerson, Ann Patchett, Jhumpa Lahiri, Charles Blow, Alice Hoffman, Christina Baker Kline, Elizabeth Kolbert, Michael Schmidt, Jonathan Alter, Peter Baker and Susan Glasser, and more. Some virtual events have drawn as many as 400 or 750, including attendees from 35 states outside New Jersey as well as Canada, Europe, the UK, the Caribbean, Thailand and New Zealand. Six of last year’s offerings were New York Times bestsellers, and guests are regularly featured in the “most notable books” lists of The New York Times, The Washington Post and others.

The upcoming event will be held on Thursday, March 10 at 7pm—Patrick Radden Keefe, “Empire of Pain: The Secret History of the Sackler Dynasty.” In conversation with D.T. Max. Two New Yorker staff writers discuss Keefe’s bestselling portrait of the Sackler dynasty, famous for their philanthropy and infamous for their part in making and marketing Oxycontin.

The virtual events are all free to the public but registration is required. Montclair Pubic Library, 973-744-0500. Register now at bit.ly/OBOM_Keefe Patrick Radden Keefe

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Local Buzz Gift Giving Simplified…

40 Over 40 - “I Am”

I

n conjunction with Women’s History Month, The Gallery at Hillside Square is excited to welcome 40 Over 40 “I Am”, contemporary portraits of forty women over forty by awarded photographer Celestina Ando. These portraits begin with ‘I am’ and continue with a celebration of the achievements and experiences of each woman.

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Celestina Ando states, “I was once an accountant (with a creative soul) working in corporate finance for 20 years. I took a leap of faith to follow my passion, and now I have a contemporary portrait studio in Montclair, NJ. Whether for headshots, maternity, boudoir, family, or contemporary glam, I love working with clients who feel they aren’t photogenic and creating legacy portraits and empowering experiences.”

“In this exhibit, 40 Over 40 - “I Am”, Ando continues, “The story is “I am” - I am photographing 40 Women over the age of 40 to celebrate our achievements, experiences, lessons learned, etc. I was 40 years old when I decided to become a full-time entrepreneur and open my photography studio. Therefore, this is truly a passion and celebration project of mine.”

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A special, limited-edition magazine of the exhibit images will be available for purchase that evening, with proceeds benefiting SAVE (Sexual Assault & Violence Education) of Essex County (www.familyserviceleague.org). SAVE of Essex County will also highlight that evening.

For inquiries, call Celestina Ando at (201) 381-0180, or email celestinaandophotography@gmail.com.

Opening Reception: Saturday, March 12, 6-8pm Exhibition Runs: March 1-31, 2022 The Gallery at Hillside Square, 8 Hillside Avenue, Montclair

Steven V. Gargiulo | Ph: 973.428.9529

State of N.J. License/Registration # 13VH00192900

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Local Buzz

Roseland Free Public Library—Events for All Ages!

B

endy Bookworm, a unique program that combines a love of reading with exercise will present a morning of yoga and stories for ages 1-5. Danielle Fisher, Founder of The Bendy Bookworm Yoga Method is a Children’s Librarian, a yoga teacher and a picture book author! She built the Bendy Bookworm Yoga Method, which uses stories and yoga, to teach children cognitive, social and emotional skills! Thursday, March 10, 10:30am.

J

oin the Cricut Craft Club. A Cricut is an digital diecutting machine that is able to cut many different materials for you to use in a plethora of craft projects.

Add a Cricut design to a stemless wine glass. Participants may bring their own snacks and beverages. All supplies provided. Limited to 12 participants. Friday, March 11, 6-8pm.

Roseland Free Public Library, 20 Roseland Avenue, Roseland. 973-226-8636. www.roselandpubliclibrary.org

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Senior Happening: Fred Miller Presents “Judy Garland: Lecture-In-Song”

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he Livingston Public Library invites the public to our In-Person Senior Happening on Friday, March 18th at 1pm featuring “Judy Garland: Lecture-In-Song” performed by Fred Miller.

973-239-3004

Judy Garland was Hollywood’s greatest female musical star. No one ever entranced an audience as she did over the 15 years she was MGM’s leading lady and thereafter, when she proved herself to be arguably the world’s most electrifying live concert performer. Fred Miller’s Lecture-InSong on Judy Garland pays full tribute to this performer, who continues to eclipse the competition.

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Fred Miller is the founder of the Copper Penny Players, a singing class for amateurs that has been operating for the past quarter century. He has experience in many different musical fields, including opera, comedy and piano music.

There are now more than seventy Lecture-In-Song programs that he performs around New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Registration is required—February 28th for Livingston residents and other Essex County residents starting on March 14th. Unable to make the show? A pre-recorded video of Fred Miller’s “Judy Garland: Lecture-in-Song’’ will also be available for you to view at your leisure on the Library’s website.

Friday, March 18, 1-2pm Livingston Public Library, 10 Robert Harp Drive, Livingston 973-992-4600 | www.livingstonlibrary.org

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Salute to the Irish, Richard Stillman

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Van Vleck favorite family event of Irish music, storytelling, and step dancing, accompanied by bagpipes, mandolin, banjo & guitar. Richard Stillman is a beloved and acclaimed musical storyteller who combines a theatrical style of storytelling with authentic musical instruments from around the world. As an actor He has performed on Broadway, the Kennedy Center and in regional theatres form New Jersey to Alaska.

Sunday, March 6—2-3pm Van Vleck House & Gardens, 21 Van Vleck Street, Montclair 973-744-4752 | www.vanvleck.org

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O’Hara & Shillelagh Party

J

oin the Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh and the Frank O’Hara Association for their annual party and reception to celebrate and pay tribute to the 2022 West Orange St. Patrick’s Day Parade Honorees: Grand Marshal Mellen Dangler; Deputy Grand Marshals John Demars, Patrick Giblin and Bobby Lamb. All are welcome and will be able to enjoy an open bar, LIVE entertainment and food. $20 admission at the door.

Friday, March 4 – 7pm The Shillelagh Club | Prospect Avenue, West Orange

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March 2022

Local Buzz

COLLEGE PREP - SAT/ACT LESSONS

AIM HIGH…

SCORE HIGHER!

Used Book & Music Sale

T

his is a terrific event featuring thousands of books and paperbacks, LPs, CDs, DVDs, Cassette Tapes, Sheet Music, Ephemera.

Everything is sold at bargain prices, and the proceeds go to college scholarship awards for area girls. This year’s sale includes an especially large collection of Civil War books and Politics related books. Sponsored by the College Women’s Club of Montclair.

*Ivy League-Educated* *Princeton Review and Kaplan-Trained* *Expert in ALL SAT/ACT Subjects* *MATH, READING, WRITING, ENGLISH*

Sale days are as follows: Wednesday, March 30, 2-7pm (Children’s Book Day) Thursday, Friday & Saturday, March 31-April 2, 9:30am-7pm Sunday, April 3, 1-6pm (Half Price for Teachers & Librarians with professional ID) Friday, April 8, 9:30am-7pm (Half-price day) Saturday April 9, 9:30am-7pm (Bag Day) Sunday April 10, 1-6pm (Bag Day)

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19

Local Buzz

Fun with Fairies

E

njoy a magical time in the gardens as we create a fairy garden, make a fairy wand and take a walk on the new fairy trail.

A fairy garden is a small container garden or a small cultivated space near a tree with miniature sized plants and elements, the purpose of which is to be a place for fairies to live. Space is limited. Ages 4 and up must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver.

Wednesday, March 30—3:30-6pm Van Vleck House & Gardens 21 Van Vleck Street, Montclair 973-744-4752 | www.vanvleck.org

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Local Buzz

CREATIVE MARKETING AGENCY St. Patrick Day Parades Return!

N

ew Jersey is gearing up for St. Patrick’s Day parades following two years of cancellations and disruptions due to the pandemic. Though St. Patrick’s Day always is on March 17, parades and other celebrations typically occur on weekends and during the first three weeks of the month.

Here is a list of local parades:

Helping small businesses make big impressions

The 43rd annual Nutley St. Patrick’s Day parade will take place on Saturday, March 5. Step off for the parade will on Franklin Avenue beginning at 1pm.

The Morris County St. Patrick’s Day parade is scheduled to return Saturday, March 12. Step off is at noon at Morristown Town Hall, 200 South Street. The parade route follows South Street to the Morristown Green and continues along Washington Street to Morristown High School.

The 69th annual West Orange St. Patrick’s Day Parade is Sunday, March 13, starting at 12:15pm. The parade steps-off promptly at 12:15pm from the corners of Mt. Pleasant Avenue and Main Street. The Parade route makes it’s way north on Main Street and ends at Our Lady of Lourdes Church.

Newark’s annual St. Patrick’s Day parade is celebrating its 87th year in existence. The parade returns on Friday, March 11 at 12pm. The route will run from the Prudential Center on Mulberry Street past Gateway Center, NJPAC, Military Park, St. Patrick’s Pro-Cathedral, the Newark Museum, and Washington Park. After all, there’s much to celebrate!

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Local Buzz

Stars on Ice

S

Peppa Pig’s Adventure

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ome join Peppa on an exciting camping trip in the woods with George and her school friends, including Pedro Pony, Suzy Sheep and Gerald Giraffe. With lunchboxes packed and Daddy Pig driving the bus, Peppa and friends are excited about their outdoor adventure, full of singing, dancing, games and surprises. Little piggies everywhere will love this 60-minute live musical experience.

Aimed at children ages 2 – 6, this action-packed stage show is a delight for the entire family.

March 30—6pm Prudential Hall, Betty Wold Johnson Stage 1 Center Street, Newark | 888-696-5722 www.njpac.org

Stars on Ice continues to be a pioneer in figure skating by offering fans the rare opportunity to witness some of the world’s most creative and cherished champions performing together in both individual and ensemble routines.

Friday, April 22—7pm Prudential Center, 25 Lafayette Street, Newark 973-757-6000 | www.prucenter.com

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tars on Ice will to put you front and center to see the best of the U.S. Figure Skating team straight from the 2022 Winter Games in Beijing, China! The 2022 Stars on Ice tour will showcase the top medal contenders including reigning World and U.S. National Champion Nathan Chen, U.S. Champions Alysa Liu, Jason Brown, Madison Hubbell & Zachary Donohue and Madison Chock & Evan Bates, World Medalist Vincent Zhou, plus Olympic Medalist Mirai Nagasu and more!

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EXTERIORS INTERIORS

Louis Mauriello

CHAMPION WASTE REMOVAL, INC.

Prompt, Efficient, Honest & Reliable Service

By Christine S. Maxwell, photo by Dan Epstein

W

“

aste not, want not” could be the motto of the Mauriello family. For more than one hundred years, they have provided trash removal to residents of Montclair and surrounding communities with prompt, efficient, honest, and reliable service. In 1912, the grandfather, Louis, established Mauriello Disposal. He delivered ice in the morning, coal in the afternoon, and hauled trash in his horse and buggy at night. Today, the family still manages the company, which now thrives as a leader in dumpster rentals and recycling.

Following the footsteps of his grandfather Louis and father Mark L., Louis M. Mauriello began a second company, Champion Waste Removal Inc, in the early 1980’s. Champion Waste strives to meet changing community needs and remains true to the family’s core business principles introduced over a century ago.

Further, Champion often partners with Mauriello Disposal and other companies for dumpster rentals and to recycle waste.

“Recycling some of the debris helps to keep consumer costs down,” he remarks.

The younger Louis Mauriello started Champion Waste as a traditional garbage company. However, in the 1990s, he noticed a demographic shift in the area that necessitated a business change. Aging populations were growing, and younger generations were moving away from the region.

Parents no longer had immediate help in downsizing homes.

Louis changed the direction of Champion Waste to a full-service cleanout company that works with homeowners, realtors, organizers, and apartment building owners to remove unwanted junk, bulk, debris, and demolition.

As a leader in the area in innovative waste removal practices, Mauriello continuously finds ways to help his customers, keep things simple, maintain current practices, and provide new services. He is always open to new ideas and new approaches.

For example, Mauriello saw a need to rent small dumpsters to residential customers. He also uses smaller trucks to get in and out of residential driveways and finds that their size is less intimidating to clients. These changes have allowed him to service areas where others can’t. “You can never be afraid to reinvent yourself or your business. Clients sometimes ask what to do. We will figure out a way and then find out that we have a market for our solutions, “he says.

As the face of Champion Waste, Mauriello personally prepares and delivers all price quotes to the customers. He is known and respected for his integrity and fair business practices.

“My reputation is my wealth,” he says.

Champion Waste Removal, Inc. 973-744 6766 | www.championwasteremoval.com March 2022

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Local Buzz

Unique University Photography Education Intro to Painting with Light

J

Five Basic Portrait Lighting Setups

L

earn the five basic positions for portrait lighting on a set with Head Instructor Michael Downey! We’ll work with continuous light, utilizing a single Nanlite FS-150/ FS-200/FS-300 LED Monolight, reflectors, and V-flats as the background. Michael will go over the subtleties of placement and intensity for each lighting position, the effects of hard versus soft light (and how to apply them), and working with different face types. These simple, straightforward, tried-andtrue lighting positions will be demonstrated to help build a good foundation for those just getting into studio lighting.

Saturday, March 5, 11am-1pm Unique University, 123 US Hwy 46(West), Fairfield 973-377-2007 | www.uniquephoto.com

oin Michael Downey as he leads a brief seminar introducing light painting photography. Students will see how Michael creates surreal images in-camera through the use of plexiglass, LED lights, fiber optics, and flashlights. He’ll also share techniques, photo equipment requirements, and materials needed for achieving these different images.

Afterwards, students will have the opportunity to create similar images in class. There will be three different staging areas that each participant will rotate through. This way, everyone will have an opportunity to photograph several different designs from different positions. Leave with a body of work illustrating just how amazing “Painting with Light” can look!

Wednesday, March 24, 6:30-8:30pm Unique University, 123 US Hwy 46(West), Fairfield 973-377-2007 | www.uniquephoto.com

Macro Photography at Longwood Gardens with Michael Downey

I

t is a fine time to exercise your macro photography at Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania with Michael Downey! Their Conservatory is one of the world’s great greenhouse structures and shelters 20 indoor gardens and 5,500 types of plants. At present, there are 195,668 square feet—or 4.5 acres—of covered display, production, and research greenhouses.

Once everyone has met up with Michael, he will distribute tickets and then begin the seminar.

He’ll go over settings, techniques, and tips for photographing flowers and macro photography.

Michael will also have some accessories and tools that will help you get the best photos possible! A leisurely stroll through the display areas takes about 1½ hours and cover about ½ mile. Includes admission to gardens…participants will meet at the visitor’s center & garden shop Saturday, March 12, 10am-1pm | Unique University, 123 US Hwy 46(West), Fairfield | 973-377-2007 | www.uniquephoto.com

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Local Buzz

The Ironbound in Suburban Essex

E

verything you liked about going to the Ironbound section of Newark for Portuguese food is now found in Suburban Essex right on Livingston Avenue! Enter Assado, which in Portuguese is “Grill” as in, on a summer evening, “Let’s do an assado.” All of the classic Portuguese favorites you expect to find are here. And they’re all noteworthy. There isn’t a more traditional Ironbound dish than Seafood Paella, pictured here.

Assado’s is a combination of Lobster, Shrimp, Clams, Scallops and Mussels served in a bed of Saffron Rice with select seasonings.

It’s everything Paella should be and more so.

Do save room for the desserts. Any of which is a delightful way to end the meal, but the Portuguese Flan is a stand out. Couple it with a rich Espresso and you know you’ve been there and done the job right.

The icing on the cake? Plenty of easy free parking in their own lot.

Assado Portuguese Steakhouse 222 N. Livingston Avenue, Livingston www.assadonj.com

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SHOW YOUR

BEST YOU “ H

ow you present yourself online is critical, especially in these days of the pandemic,” says photographer Dan Epstein. Whether it’s a business website, online meeting, or presence in social media marketing, most people agree that a first impression is key. “No kidding”, he adds, “you get, like, two seconds to capture someone’s attention before you lose them to a click through. The photograph of you simply has to be engaging, and able to show the best part of you.”

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With over three decades of experience shooting for some of America’s biggest magazines, Fortune 500 companies, as well as many local small businesses, Epstein can do just that: take a photograph that presents you or your business in your best light. Whether you call it a business portrait, or a headshot, after a scheduled telephone or FaceTime meeting, he will come to your location, or someplace else you choose, with the appropriate photo gear and COVID safety measures, and make a series of photographs to make sure that you have a selection of excellent alternatives to choose from. Many clients are so pleased with the results that they choose multiple different portraits for their marketing and social media efforts.

You can preview a selection of his work on his website and reach him through it as well. Go ahead, contact him, it’s time to put your best face forward.

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Dan Epstein Photography www.danepsteinphoto.com

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By Michael H. Karu, CPA/CFF/CGMA

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ax preparation planning makes the entire process easier and, usually, more cost effective. First, gather and organize your tax records. We recommend getting an accordion file and putting each type of document into a separate tab. Many taxpayers receive a variety of forms – W-2s, 1099s from banks, brokerage houses, unemployment, pensions, or for income earned, such as rents, royalties, nonemployee compensation, gambling winnings, and forgiveness of debt, to name a few. For those with mortgages, look for Form 1098 from the lender. For any charitable contributions, keep any letters received confirming the amount donated.

For 2021, even if you do not itemize your deductions, you can deduct up to $300 in charitable contributions paid by cash, check, or credit card per person to a maximum of $600 if you file a joint tax return. A charitable donation deduction is allowed for non-cash contributions, such as clothing and household furnishings, but only if you itemize your deductions.

Just remember to get and keep receipts.

Taxpayers who received an Advance Child Tax Credit, Premium Tax Credit, and/or an Economic Impact Payment and want to determine their eligibility for a Recovery Rebate Credit should look for certain documents, including IRS Letter 6419 for their 2021 Total Advance Child Tax Credit; Form 1095-A to reconcile the Premium Tax Credit; and IRS Letter 6475 for their Economic Impact Payment. These letters are extremely important. Be sure to give them to your tax preparer with the rest of your documents.

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Neuropathy Breakthrough Local clinic has a modern, medical solution to treat your Peripheral Neuropathy and is seeing incredible results.

“It started out as a normal outing.

My wife and I had to run to the grocery store. We were driving down the road casually going over our shopping list when the car ahead of me started to slow down, anticipating the yellow light. I started to move my foot from the gas to the brake as any normal person would do when they see brake lights in front of them, but I couldn’t. I couldn’t feel my foot. The car kept moving forward, and I just couldn’t get my foot on the brake. And CRUNCH! I finally came to a stop when I hit the car in front of me.”

This tragic story was shared with us by John M., a Millburn resident, who has Peripheral Neuropathy. And while no one was hurt in this accident, John M. had suffered almost every day for the past 8 years with tingling and burning in his feet until numbness set in and he could no longer feel even the brake pedal beneath his foot.

“The first stage is pain,” shares Dr. Aleksandra Mihajlovic, DTCM, LAc of Sasha Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine.

“You feel burning, tingling, sharp pains, or you feel like you’re walking on broken glass. This pain eventually subsides, and the numbness sets in. Unfortunately, with the numbness comes a lot of other problems.”

This was the case with John. “I said I wasn’t going to drive again. What if that had been a pedestrian?”

It is terribly common that Peripheral Neuropathy and its debilitating symptoms interfere with a person’s ability to live their life. John was now reliant on his wife to drive him around; even the simple pleasure of cruising down to the shore or taking her out to dinner was outside his capabilities. And even more common, John’s general practitioner and several specialists told him there was nothing they could do other than prescribe him medications that would ease the pain of his Neuropathy.

That’s where Dr. Aleksandra and her staff at Sasha Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine come in. “About 75% of our current patients come to us suffering from the same condition as Mr. John,” says Dr. Aleksandra Mihajlovic, DTCM, LAc. “They’re in constant pain from Neuropathy, and it prevents them from not only living their lives, but more importantly, it prevents them from enjoying it. Depending on the severity of their nerve damage, we typically see tremendous progress in 3-4 months of treatment. I like to say we’re in the business of making your golden years golden.”

Visit www.SashaAcupuncture.com to learn more and to take advantage of their New Patient Offer March 2022

“I can’t lie,” confides John. “I was skeptical at first. My doctor told me there was nothing that could be done, and then, there’s an acupuncturist right here in Montclair who tells me she can help. Turns out she was right. After about four months of treatments, I was able to confidently drive myself to my appointments! My wife and I celebrated by buying ourselves a new car! It’s hard to put into words how incredible this is, quite frankly, I feel like I got my life back.”

While Sasha Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine specializes in acupuncture, and it’s definitely part of their protocols in treating Neuropathy, the real secret is in a more modern medical solution called ATP Resonance Biotherapy™. “This technology was originally developed by NASA to expedite healing and recovery,” shares Tammy, a patient care coordinator at the clinic. “It’s like watering a plant.

ATP Resonance Biotherapy™ stimulates the blood vessels to grow back around the peripheral nerve and provide them the proper nutrients to heal and repair.”

You can learn more about Dr. Aleksandra Mihajlovic, DTCM, LAc by visiting www.SashaAcupuncture.com. If you’re ready to schedule a consultation, call 973-444-8932 and do so quickly. Sasha Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine is a very intimate clinic and the staff takes pride in their ability to take their time with each patient, so they are very limited in their ability to take on new patients.

Sasha Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine 119 Grove Street, Montclair 973-444-8932 www.SashaAcupuncture.com MySuburbanEssex.com

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Art of Essex Church Street

Fernando Mariscale

FERNANDO MARISCALE:

F

A Modern Day Impressionist

ernando Mariscale is like a modern day Van Gogh. He sees the world and its colors a little differently than most people. And if you’re like us, you will love the explosive colors of his vision.

Always interested in Art, it was at 11 when given a box of charcoals that he started drawing in earnest. When it was time for college, he went to the local Art school which baffled his family who were career military people. “I can change the world with a brush,” he told his soldier father.

Now, firmly ensconced in Montclair, he continues as he did growing up in Cusco, Peru, to paint his hometown. And he does it every day. As a plein air painter (which is the French expression for “in the open air”), which means leaving

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Suburban Essex

the four walls of a studio behind and experiencing painting and drawing in the landscape, he can always be found somewhere locally, pastels or brush in hand. His desire to paint light and its changing, ephemeral qualities are part of what make his paintings and pastel drawings a joy. While he focusses on the composition of the scenes he renders, the colors, he says, just flow like a river to him. They tend to be, he points out “versions of the colors I see.”

In “Church Street,”an 18x24 chalk pastel on paper, anyone who is familiar with this popular Montclair destination can’t help but recognize it. It’s the explosive color and line work that keep us lost in the drawing. Strokes almost seem haphazard at first, until you notice the precision with which they are applied.

March 2022

Notice the highlights on the streetlight in the foreground.

A jubilant explosion of color again greets us in “Upper Mountain Road,”another 18x24 chalk pastel drawing, as we look at a curve in the road near the Presby Iris Gardens. The melange of colors in the foliage seems impossible at first, then, somehow, just right.

In “Upper Montclair,”also an 18x24 chalk pastel drawing, we find ourselves unmistakably on the corner of Valley Road and Bellevue Avenue. The light speaks to us of a sunny summer afternoon, the details leave no confusion as to the location, despite the lively, almost frenetic line work. It’s an exciting moment in time in this otherwise ordinary suburban street corner.

Upper Mountain Road

Upper Mountain

Raphael And Margaret

Story and portrait photo by Dan Epstein

In a change of subject matter, when Mariscale approaches a portrait, as we see in “Raphael And Margaret,”the same attention to and accuracy of detail, and a similar approach to to color rendition. The portrait of two newlyweds has the same jubilant color vision as his landscapes and it simply makes you feel good.

Fernando Mariscale’s work hastens you to remember the great Impressionist painters of the late nineteenth century, while putting a contemporary spin in both his commissioned portraits and the landscapes, which, like the French Impressionists of yore painted from life.

They amuse, delight, and never stop calling you to them. Visit his Instagram to see many more works, or to contact him about a commissioning a piece.

Fernando Mariscale Instagram: Mariscafe March 2022

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Local Buzz

Thank You for Voting for Us! BEST ACCOUNTANT Five Years in a Row

Suburban Essex

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2019 Silver Winner

2018 Silver Winner

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Insight Beyond Numbers Levine, Jacobs & Company, LLC, has been providing accounting and consulting services since 1952. Our unwavering mission is to know the numbers, never treat clients as numbers, and go beyond the numbers to provide the highest levels of service, expertise, and personal attention.

Today, our commitment to our clients, our profession, and our community has never been stronger.

Michael H. Karu

Maple Sugaring Demos

T

he Great Swamp Outdoor Education Center is offering three maple sugaring demonstrations for children ages 2 to 5 during the month of March. Children and their parents are invited to listen to a story about maple sugaring and participate in a walk and talk with a naturalist all about making maple syrup from trees. The program will be held entirely outdoors.

Tuesday, March 1, Thursday, March 3 and Thursday, March 10—10-10:45am Great Swamp Outdoor Education Center 247 Southern Boulevard, Chatham Register at: http//tinyurl.com/yc3mwmcz or call 973-635-6629

Timothy J. Shore

March Fourth 5K and Dog Walk

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973-992-9400 333 EISENHOWER PARKWAY LIVINGSTON, NJ 07039

Brookside Drive, Millburn

WWW.LJCPA.COM 32

Suburban Essex

he fifth annual March Fourth 5K will take place on Sunday March 6th, 2022. Following the race, there will be a dog walk! Gather your friends and family together and walk your dogs! 5K starts at 9am followed by the dog walk. All donations will go directly to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance to support screenings.

March 2022

Local Buzz

Best of Essex 2019 Best Landscaper–Bronze Winner!

Suburban Essex

2019 Bronze Winner

Bob Feller Act of Valor Display Comes to the Yogi Berra Museum & Learning Center

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he Yogi Berra Museum & Learning Center, located on the campus of Montclair State University, is partnering with the Bob Feller Act of Valor Foundation to present an exhibition designed to educate museum visitors about the service and sacrifice of 39 Hall of Famers during World War II, including Yogi Berra and Bob Feller. The exhibit, which is newly open to the public, will remain at Yogi’s Museum through June 6, 2022 – the 78th anniversary of D-Day. The exhibit includes the stories of Berra, who served on the beaches of Normandy; Feller, who was the first professional American athlete to enlist; as well as new 2022 Hall of Fame inductees Gil Hodges and Buck O’Neil. Signed memorabilia and archival video footage bring this “Greatest Generation” roster to vivid life, reminding visitors of the players’ remarkable athleticism and ultimate sacrifice in leaving the ballpark to fight for our country.

“Yogi always said that his World War Two service was his proudest accomplishment,” says Eve Schaenen, Executive Director of the Yogi Berra Museum & Learning Center. “Having this exhibit in our Museum allows us to highlight this hugely significant aspect of his life, and also tell the stories of the other extraordinary athletes who served our country during those critical years.”

Bob Feller and Yogi Berra both stepped away from the game they loved to serve their country in a time of great national need. Both served in the United States Navy and saw battle in some of the most historic moments in WWII. Berra was the Hall of Fame recipient of the inaugural Bob Feller Act of Valor Award in 2013.

“The Bob Feller Act of Valor Foundation aims to bring national awareness to the values of respect, courage, and commitment,” says Peter Fertig, President and Founder of the Foundation. “I believe these values align perfectly with the mission of the Yogi Berra Museum & Learning Center.”

Yogi Berra Museum & Learning Center On the campus of Montclair State University 8 Yogi Berra Drive, Little Falls, NJ 07424 973-655-2378

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Summer Camp 2022 SPOTLIGHTS Essex Youth Theater Summer Theater Day Camp The Studio Playhouse, 14 Alvin Place, Upper Montclair 973-746-3303 | www.essexyouththeater.com Age Groups: Ages 6-13 Montclair’s premiere Summer Theater Day camp is better than ever.

Imagine the thrill of starring in your own show! This camp is a fun and exciting theater experience that encourages confidence and nurtures self-esteem. Every child gets an equal role in the show and, in musicals, a solo song. Six weeks of musicals and non-musicals: choose one, all six, or mix & match! In-person, on a real stage.

Start on Monday, star in a play on Friday!

Musical Theatre Conservatory Broadway Boot Camp

and television. This year they will be offering camp In Person!

973-868-6259 | www.musicaltheatreconservatory.com July 5-22 (Final Show NJ Show!) Monday–Friday, 9:15am–3:45pm At Musical Theatre Conservatory, “Theatre for Life” is more than just a motto; it is their guiding philosophy.

Through their Broadway Boot Camp, July 5-22, children aged 7-18 get the opportunity to bring this philosophy to life.

School of Rock Montclair–Summer Rock Boot Camp 125 Valley Road, Montclair | 973-337-5296 locations.schoolofrock.com/montclair Through workshops, clinics, and group “band” instruction, this comprehensive camp experience is designed to hone music performance and ensemble skills in a creative and fun environment.

They know from experience that playing in a band situation speeds learning and creates “seasoned” musicians.

Broadway Boot Camp teaches children the skills they need to actually get on stage and do what they love. MTC students work with theatre professionals, who are committed to giving every child the solid foundation they need to be the best performer they can be. Each day, students will enjoy a rotating schedule that includes: Voice, Acting, Theatre Dance, Hip Hop, Song Interpretation, Comedy Improvisation, Stage Combat, TV & Commercial Acting, Audition T`echniques, MakeUp, and Production Rehearsal. The program ends with a “splash” with their annual Luau Pool Party!

In just three weeks, students are guided from classes to rehearsals culminating in a costumed, cabaret-style show, produced by theatre professionals. Students also have the chance to meet with agents and Broadway actors to get the inside scoop on working in theatre, film,

Surf and Turf Adventure Camp & Surf and Turf Jr. Edgemont Park, Montclair | 973-306-9505 | surfandturfcamp.com Email: surfandturfmontclair@gmail.com Age Groups: Ages 9–15 Teen and pre-teens enjoy different daily adventures from New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania to as far as Canada and California. Both a day and overnight camp with actives such as paintball, hiking, swimming and rafting in nature.

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!

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 34

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• In-Person, On-Stage • Ages 6-13 • Exciting plays & musicals • Lots of individual attention in a friendly atmosphere • Every child gets a starring role!

973-746-3303 • www.EssexYouthTheater.com

MONTCLAIR, NJ

15% OFF SUMMER CAMP! For Summer 2022. Offer valid through April 1, 2022.

Visit Website for More Information.

Please call or email for info on Covid-19 safety procedures

125 Valley Road, Montclair

973-337-5296

e-mail: Montclair@SchoolofRock.com

www.Montclair.SchoolofRock.com

SURF AND TURF ADVENTURE CAMP

www.SurfandTurfCamp.com

Summer Camp Fashion Design Workshops for Teens at House of Dezign

An adventure camp for kids ages 10-16. A new adventure every day!

Pick up and drop off at Edgemont Memorial Park, Montclair, NJ from June-August. Certified Teachers, Lifeguards, and EMT Staff.

SUMMER 2022 Check Out Our New Adventures!

House of Dezign | 11B Roosevelt Avenue, Chatham 973-908-3575 | www.houseofdezign.com Is your teen interested in fashion design? This summer, House of Dezign is offering unparalleled one-week educational and fun summer camp design workshops for teens ages 13 to 17 through carefully curated lessons that ensure each participant succeeds.

In addition, a 3-week portfolio workshop is being offered for teens who are looking to create portfolios or get a head start for school or college. Each week-long session combines individualized and class instruction to ensure teens get the attention they need to make successful fashions. All participants learn how to create evolving mood boards and fashion designing as well as pattern making and draping. They also work with different textiles to create wearable garments and accessories. Participants learn to stitch fabric by hand and by using a sewing machine. And they learn to appreciate the rich history and culture of fashion, as well as the economic value.

All workshops are small to allow for the best possible instruction by instructors who are from Pratt, FIT and other design schools in the US and Europe. House of Dezign offers one-of-a-kind, elite, STEM, summer camp fashion design workshops for teens who want to learn about fashion designing.

CALL TODAY:

973-306-9505

AGES 7-19

BEG-ADV LEVELS

JULY 5TH - JULY 22ND

BROADWAY BOOTCAMP

Musical Theatre Conservatory SUMMER CAMP & SHOWCASE PROFESSIONAL, PERSONALIZED TRAINING IN: SINGING, DANCING, ACTING, COMEDY, TV/FILM, STAGE COMBAT AND AUDITIONING

SAVE

$100 TC

CODE: M

SHOWCASE YOUR TALENT IN A FINAL SHOW IN N.Y.C.!

MEET + STUDY WITH AGENTS AND B’WAY PERSONALITIES! CONVENIENT LIVINGSTON LOCATION

Pool Parties!

973.868.6259 MusicalTheatreConservatory.com March 2022

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Equestrian Summer Camps!

Register before March 15 for a 10% EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT

Summer Camp 2022 SPOTLIGHTS

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Sharron Miller’s Academy for the Performing Arts 14 South Park Street, Montclair | 973-655-9819 | www.smapa.org “If you like to dance or act, Prime Time Summer Arts is the place to be,” says Sharron Miller, Artistic Director. No previous training is required and every session is different so you can register for the whole summer.

– Riding Lessons — Petite Equestrian Program Troop and Badge Programs Trail Rides • IEA Team Team Building/Birthday Parties

Seaton Hackney

STA B L E S 440 South Street, Morristown, 973-644-3355

www.SeatonHackney.com

Preschool Summer Arts for ages 3-5 meets Monday-Friday from 8-11am.

Each 1-week session includes dance, music, art, and pretend play all focused on the theme for that week. Themes may include Fairy Tales, At the Beach, Around the World, Disney, and more.

Prime Time Summer Arts for ages 6-9 meets Monday-Friday from 9am-2pm. Ages 10-14 meet Monday-Friday from 1-6pm.

Over the 3-week session, students will take classes in dance, drama, improv, and choreography, and then collaboratively create a show. There will be break times when students can eat and socialize together with their counselors, bonding over the joy of performing arts. The session will culminate with a performance of the show they have created together.

Summer Camp for Equestrians Seaton Hackney Stables, Loantaka Brook Reservation, 440 South St, Morristown 973-644-3355 | www.seatonhackney.com Seaton Hackney Stables offers a unique and unforgettable summer camp experience for young equestrians ages 5 to 17. It combines the great outdoors with education, horseback riding and fun. Our campers ride 2-3 times daily, either during lessons or lunging sessions, on trail rides, or Equisthenics. Campers also learn basic safety, grooming, tacking and barn management skills.

In addition, campers receive daily badges for achievements in many areas including equine breeds, colors and markings, equine health and first aid, braiding and show grooming, careers in the industry (demonstrations by vet and farrier), harness driving and other exciting horsemanship matters.

We offer am, pm and full day, weekly camp sessions. Summer camp runs all summer long until Labor Day. Visit www.seatonhackney.com for more information.

Summer Academy at The Craig School The Craig School, 10 Tower Hill Rd, Mountain Lakes | 973-334-4375 www.craigschool.org/academics/summer-academy The Craig School Summer Academy provides an opportunity for Craig students and non-Craig Students with learning disabilities to continue to improve their organization, note-taking, and study skills in a safe, academic environment. It also provides our students with a foundation of practical and effective content acquisition skills that allows them to become greater independent learners. Hands-on experience, creative expression, and co-operative learning. The morning Academic Session is focused on academics, reinforcing skills and strategies.

The afternoon Enrichment Session is focused on social skills, art projects, environmental sessions and community field trips. Programs start Monday, July 5. High school program closes Thursday, July 28; LS/MS closes Friday July 29.

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Freshen Up Your Indoor Spaces W

hen cold winter days keep you inside, you may find yourself bored with your surroundings.

Waiting for the sun to make its next appearance can provide the perfect opportunity to give your indoor spaces a fresh and appealing mini makeover.

Even if your budget is tight, you can still make small changes to transform a room. Consider these ideas: • Bring stylish flair to your space with a new color scheme. Rather than replacing all the furniture, which can be costly, focus on smaller accessory pieces such as pillows and decorative items. Create variety by using multiple hues of the same color or mixing two or more complementary colors.

• Introduce new accent furniture.

Smaller and less cost-prohibitive than centerpieces like a couch, for example, accent pieces such as end tables or a coffee table can provide subtle changes to the look of a room.

You could also opt to refinish a piece of furniture you have on-hand to create a look that’s all your own.

• Morph your room by simply rearranging what you already own.

Adjusting the orientation of your furniture and decor can let you see your favorite room from a whole new perspective.

• Whether it’s a flea market find, such as an old window frame that you paint and add a display shelf to the base, or a series of photos from your favorite vacation destination, adding some DIY art can not only update your room, but make it more personal, too.

A new look for your favorite room can go a long way toward chasing away those winter blahs, so find ways to update your space for a cozy retreat that you can enjoy despite the cold weather raging outdoors. Find more ideas at eLivingtoday.com.

—Family Features Photo courtesy of Pexels

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Never worry about whether your products are travel size ever again. Set includes three TSA carry-on approved size (3.4oz) S’well Travel Bottles & toiletry bag made from recycled plastic. Made from durable, lightweight and recyclable aluminum. Each bottle includes a cover and a leak-free pump—making it easy to refill & dispense the perfect amount of product every time!

Support Your Local Merchant. Shop Local.

Find the perfect gift at nearby independently owned businesses in our community.

Smith & Company

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

Polish Pottery Butter Dish Hand Painted in the Polish village of Boleslawiec, one of many pieces.

Travel in style this summer with our “Down the Shore” bags by Spartina. From wallets to duffels made of textured vinyl and quilted cotton.

Kitchen a la Mode

The Pink Pear

19 South Orange Ave, South Orange | KALM.biz

42 Main Street, Madison | 973-437-2132 www.ShopThePinkPear.com

These Sterling Silver & Gold plated heart necklaces are made of high quality materials which makes it perfect for everyday wear.

Dainty and gorgeous to match your apparel and other jewelry. A unique gift to express your love. Suitable for any occasion.

Pink Jewels

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

Treat your clients and team to delicious personalized treats by Splurge Bakery.

We will help you create your packaging, postcard and fill your custom box with our delicious dessert bars and cookies.

We will ship your gifts too! Call us to discuss your memorable treat gifts today!

Splurge Bakery

105 Main Street, Millburn | 973-379-0740 www.SplurgeBakery.com

Pura Smart Home Diffuser allows you to customize your scent experience with fragrances from the convenience of your smartphone.

Experience iconic Volcano like never before.

Enjoy your favorite fragrances with a sleek Pura device. Includes: 1 Pura Smart Home Diffuser + 2 Capri Blue Volcano Fragrance Vials.

Smith & Company

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

Leading with Personalized Care and Photos by Venture Studios

“Exercise is Medicine” affirms Dr. John De Hoyos, DPT and Founder of LightPort Physical Therapy & Spa. The longer a person lives, he explains, the more age related factors and risks they face. Dr. John— as his team and patients call him— wants to help each patient and client at his practice prevent and manage emerging and chronic conditions, by creating supervised wellness programs that begin in the clinic and continue at home.

Pictured here are Dr. John De Hoyos, DPT, Toby Cederbaum, LMT, Yris VanBrakle, PTA, and Damian Daffara, COO

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a Hands-On Approach to Healing

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r. De Hoyos uses an evidence-based practice model when planning patient care. He and his team uses manual therapy technique that involve mobilizations of joints and muscles to treat musculoskeletal pain and disability. For example, his Physical Therapy team use instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization, a technique that works similar to massage, but uses specialized instruments instead of a therapist hands. These instruments allow more direct treatment of key soft tissue that facilitate active movement.

Another example, that can complement natural soft tissue healing, is ultrasound.

Ultrasound is well-known to produce a therapeutic effect, healing muscles by reducing inflammation and increase soft tissue tissue strength. Other examples of manual therapies include cupping, to alleviate chronic pain, and Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation or PNF techniques. PNF is a stretching technique utilized to increase ROM and flexibility.

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Dr. John De Hoyos, DPT

Dr. De Hoyos and his team, all of whom are licensed, apply physical therapy interventions to treat most common muscle strains in major joints including shoulders, back, elbows and lower extremities. Some of the most common injuries include rotator cuff injuries, tennis and golfer’s elbow, and meniscal tears.

Among the services available at LightPort Physical Therapy & Spa are sports conditioning, therapeutic and prenatal/ postnatal massage, pre and post surgery rehabilitation.

“All modalities are under the direct supervision of a physical therapist,” says Dr. De Hoyos. Individualized, functional goals, based on mobility and activity, are established for

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each patient at each new physical therapy evaluation.

Dr. De Hoyos believes that functional mobility is most meaningful to his patients. This means that some patients may want to focus on agility, strength and speed, while others may want to improve their posture, gait safety and balance.

Dr. De Hoyos recommends that those patients who undergo surgical procedures including, hip and knee joint replacements, to have pre-operative rehabilitation sessions.

Orthopedic surgeons want their patients to build up strength, improve mobility, range of motion and muscle tone before their joint replacement”, explains Dr. De Hoyos. “Pre-op rehab has shown to accelerate the healing process post-surgery”.

Yris VanBrakle, PTA

When treated by Dr. De Hoyos and staff expect to be assigned “homework” which is your self-care program to be done at home. He makes sure patients complement the work at the clinic with home exercise programs.

According to him, “research has shown that those patients who follow through with their home exercise programs, show better outcomes at the end of their rehabilitation”.

LightPort Physical Therapy & Spa team is proud to encourage patients to complete the entire course of therapy, both at the clinic and at home.

Toby Cederbaum, LMT

LightPort Physical Therapy & Spa has been recognized as Best of Essex Reader’s Choice Award winner for both physical therapy and massage spa services. Referrals are not required for some healthcare plans. The State of New Jersey allows direct access to physical therapy services. However, some insurance plans do require a referral from a medical doctor for patients to receive skilled therapy care. Medicare, Worker’s compensation cases and Motor Vehicle Accident (PIP/WC) cases plans are accepted.

LightPort Physical Therapy & Spa 355 Bloomfield Ave., Caldwell, NJ 07006 | 973-228-0072 www.LightPortPT.com

March 2022

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Women in Business 2022

Contributors: Sue Baldani, Janis Hashe, Christine Maxwell, Jackie Schatell, Deborah Shapiro

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Women in Business

Dr. Gi Gi Paralkar Livingston Family Orthodontics

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n 2017, when Dr. Gi Gi Paralkar was designing the space for Livingston Family Orthodontics, she knew she wanted it to be welcoming for her patients. “Unlike your typical dental office, I designed the space to be inviting and comforting instead of cold and clinical.”

Building relations is also important to her. “I want patients to know that I care about them and their smiles,” she says.

“They’re valued and I’m honored to help them on their journey to a beautifully straight smile.”

The most rewarding aspect of being an orthodontist is seeing her patients’ confidence grow. “While physically

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transforming smiles is amazing, it’s the internal transformation that makes me proud and grateful to do what I do.”

Dr. Gi Gi believes a great smile is the gateway to having a great life. “It’s the step in the right direction” she says. “I have a saying—‘a smile opens a door.’ I believe that the smile is central to all of the important moments in one’s life—the interview, the first date, the first time you see your child. Whether you are young or old, I think smiling is the expression of joy, and my calling is to perfect that smile.”

973-758-8926 | livingstonfamilyorthodontics.com

Women in Business

Rachel Kapner President/Principal Designer, CWI, Inc.

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achel Kapner has always loved color, fabric and textures. Her initial dream was to become a fashion designer.

Then her mother, who had been a partner in an interior design business for many years, asked her to come on board. The first day she was there, it was as though she had been there forever. She became president of Creative Wallcoverings and Interiors when her mother retired and developed it into the full-service interior design company it is today.

She met her designer inspiration, the late Mario Buatta, “The Prince of Chintz,” several times and credits him for growing her passion for layering fabrics. This has evolved over time, she noted, into more contemporary looks, often with a whimsical touch. But her clients are always partners in whatever she creates for their homes. Whether they have children, pets, entertain a great deal—all these factor into the collaborative effort resulting in a design that’s beautiful, workable and something the client loves.

Like all business owners, she prizes the great team she’s assembled, allowing her to work on multiple projects at once. That team includes the expert tradesmen and craftspeople who are essential in creating her designs.

Kapner also enjoys pushing herself, using the new tools now available to designers, and continuing to expand her vision for the ideal design for each client.

560 Central Ave., New Providence 908-665-7997 www.creativewallcoverings.com

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Women in Business

Nicole Montero Lopez, MD Orthopedic Surgeon, Clara Maass Medical Center

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icole Montero Lopez, MD, is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon affiliated with Clara Maass Medical Center, an RWJBarnabas Health facility. The RWJBarnabas Health orthopedic programs combine world-class medical and surgical care, personalized attention and innovative research to provide the best possible treatment for patients.

Dr. Lopez specializes in upper extremity surgery and microsurgery with a special interest in hand, wrist and elbow surgery, as well as fracture care. Her goal as an orthopedic surgeon is to foster a therapeutic relationship with patients in a way that empowers them to be active participants in their care.

A native of Hudson County New Jersey, Dr. Lopez completed an undergraduate degree in Psychology (with honors) at New York University (NYU) College of Arts and Sciences in New York and London, she completed her medical education at NYU School of Medicine. While there, she developed a specific interest in orthopedics and she completed a clinical research fellowship in Orthopedic Trauma Research at the NYU Hospital for Joint Diseases. Additionally, Dr. Lopez completed a fellowship in Hand, Upper Extremity and Microsurgery at University of California-Irvine.

Fluent in English and Spanish, Dr. Lopez has published and submitted numerous articles, and has presented at the Eastern Orthopedic Association Annual Conference and the American Association for Hand Surgery Annual Meeting. Dr. Lopez is part of the Combined Medical Group of RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Health.

973-450-2000 | claramaass.org

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Women in Business

Marie Gaglioti & Marlene Habermann Dieci Lifestyle Spa Co-owner

Dieci Lifestyle Spa Spa Director

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arie Gaglioti, a true artist, has always loved to create, and it was this trait that led to her life-long career in the beauty industry. “I was a natural at doing makeup and eyebrows, and I was always interested in making people look better,” she says.

She and her husband, an experienced stylist himself who owned his own salon in West Orange for many years, opened Dieci Lifestyle Spa in Livingston 27 years ago.

“We always pride ourselves on it being a complete retreat for wellness and beauty,” says Marie. “We do everything from hair cutting, styling and hair color, to massages, facials, nails and more.”

Marie attributes a big part of the Spa’s success to Marlene Habermann, the spa director for the last 26 years. “She’s an elegant and beautiful woman. Marlene was trained in France and really took control of the spa, educating our staff in a European style. She’s been a godsend to our business and truly lives and breathes health and wellness.” Marlene has clients traveling to her from all over the Tri-state area.

Marie has also developed her own cosmetics line, Dieci Colori, and skin care line so she can provide clients with the very best. She is also a champion of the environment. “In 2013, we opened a second location in Livingston called Dieci Uomo, which is a salon just for men. It’s a green building design and the first and only LEED certified hair salon in the state.”

Now in 2022 the Spa, and the entire location has undergone a major renovation adding in a few new wellness experiences. In addition, “We are embarking on a partnership with a prominent plastic surgeon introducing new medical enhancements and equipment taking us to the next level!” Marie says she couldn’t have done any of it without her husband by her side. “He’s the best and it was his vision to build a spa. It’s powerful when you have the right partner in business and in life”!

90 W. Mount Pleasant Ave., Livingston 973-716-0101 | www.diecispa.com

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Women in Business

Dr. Amrita Patel, DMD & Dr. Amy Tran, DMD The Silverstrom Group

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rs. Amrita Patel and Amy Tran are general dentists in practice with the Silverstrom Group in Livingston. After receiving her dental degree from Boston University, Dr. Patel did her dental residency at the UCLA School of Dentistry.

She practiced in Tennessee before joining the Silverstrom Group in early 2021. Dr. Tran, with the Silverstrom Group since 2017, received her dental degree from Rutgers and completed her dental residency at the Morristown Medical Center. She is a member of the American Dental Association and the New Jersey Dental Association Tri-County Society.

They practice both general and cosmetic dentistry; Dr. Tran notes that “We love that we get to play around with every aspect of dentistry and treat patients of all ages.”

Founded by Dr. David Silverstrom and Dr. Gary Silverstrom, the practice was established over 45 years ago followed with board certified specialists and their own state of the art labratory to offer an experience patients cannot receive anywhere else.

Dr. Patel says, “This is a very coordinated, integrated office. In addition to general dentists, we also have an endodontist, periodontist and oral surgeon all under one roof. This provides our patients with continuity of care.”

The Silverstrom Group uses cuttingedge technology; The Silverstrom Group is the center for robotics, virtual reality, and 3D technologies that allow us to custom craft any restorative need the patient may need. Digital x-rays, intraoral cameras and laser technology to identify and treat dental decay and even screen for oral cancer are all part of the Silverstrom Group’s repertoire.

As high-tech as the Silverstrom Group is, it is also a compassionate practice.

Patients can choose from a variety of different complimentary items on The Silverstrom Comfort Menu such as digital nitrous and Netflix. They will feel comfortable during their visit with neck pillows and custom blankets. Dr. Tran says, “We try to create a calming, spa-like environment.”

580 South Livingston Ave., Livingston 973-992-3990 | www.readytosmile.com

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Women in Business

Kristina Korre-Mihalis & Efi Mihalis Gikas Restoration and Roofing, Co-Owner

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s one of the owners of Gikas Restoration and Roofing, along with her husband George, Kristina Korre-Mihalis has to juggle hundreds of details every day. Last year she took on hundreds more when she helped her daughter Efi open Efi’s Gyro, a restaurant serving authentic Greek food, in Montclair.

Efi earned her business chops by watching the way her parents ran their business. “I was not surprised she opened the restaurant,” said Kristina.

“She always showed an interest in learning to cook and serve food. And she also showed an interest in how our business was run. “

A cook who learned Greek dishes from her mother and grandmother, Efi started planning the restaurant while in high school.

She hit on the idea during family vacations in Greece when they made a habit of visiting a favorite gyro restaurant in Athens. “I think my parent’s business knowledge and my mom’s work ethic combined with my passion to cook and serve food led me to want to create something beautiful,” Efi said.

Helping a recent high school grad start a business from scratch is a tall order in itself, but there were unexpected challenges ahead. The restaurant opened a few months before Hurricane Ida hit, dumping five feet of water in the restaurant’s basement, destroying everything. The young entrepreneur wondered if the restaurant would ever open again.

March 2022

Efi’s Gyro, Owner When the flood waters cleared, it was time to get back to work. “I told Efi to roll up her sleeves and put on rubber boots and come with me,” said Kristina. “I’ll show you how we are going to manage this problem. We wanted to teach her not to be afraid, to be strong,” said Kristina.

“Even if you fail, it’s okay. What’s important is to follow your dreams.”

Gikas Restoration and Roofing 7 Park St., Montclair | 973-835-7775 www.GikasContracting.com Efi’s Gyros 521 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair 973-783-0005 | www.EfisGyro.com

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Women in Business

Sharron Miller Sharron Miller’s Academy for the Performing Arts

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harron Miller knows the value of dance for mind, body, and spirit.

As the owner of Sharon Miller’s Academy for the Performing Arts (SMAPA) in Montclair, she shares the joy of movement with all ages.

A native of Montclair, Sharron graduated from Julliard and performed with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre and on Broadway in New York City.

Returning home to Montclair, she established an inclusive dance program with SMAPA 26 years ago. The studio’s dance program includes conservatory-based learning, with ballet, modern, jazz, tap, West African, and preschool programs in creative movement, ballet, and contemporary dance. “Through my non-profit, I have sources of income through scholarships and other funding to reach the underserved,” she remarked.

Children learn to dance as it relates to mathematical concepts. SMAPA also brings its dance programs through experiential learning to local schools and to students who would normally not have opportunities in dance instruction. She maintains, “Dance is inherently mathematically oriented. You count in 4’s, use space levels, and draw geomatic shapes.”

She says, “Ultimately, it’s about excellent product and service. But also gather people who support your vision and help you keep going. And never, ever give up.”

14 South Park St., Montclair | 973-498-8943 | www.smapa.org

Melissa Cipriano Cipriano Law Offices

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y her own account, Melissa Cipriano is just like her dad. The founder of West Caldwell’s Cipriano Law Offices, P.C. followed in her lawyer father’s footsteps. After earning her MBA in business administration she went on to earn her law degree so that she could truly help her clients restart their lives. Clients come to Melissa with various issues from equitable distribution to the dissolution of family businesses. Her combined expertise gives her enhanced insight which allows for creative solutions.

As a child of divorce and a divorcee herself, the mother of two understands the stress on families, both emotionally and financially. The stresses make it hard to protect children from intra-family strife, a protection she believes is vital. With her help families will establish their new normal and move forward in a happy, healthy environment.

973-403-8600 | www.ciprianolaw.com

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Women in Business

LuAnn Nigara & Kimberly Serafim Window Works

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indow Works offers custom window treatments such as draperies, blinds, and Roman and motorized shades, as well as awnings, fabrics and wallpaper. Co-owner LuAnn Nigara’s main focus over the last 40 years has always been on building connections with customers. “I understand that it’s not a transaction, it’s a relationship, and that’s the way I approach it,” she says.

She and co-owners, husband Vincent Nigara and cousin Bill Campesi, are proud to have built a successful family business in Livingston, which is a legacy they can pass on to family members and long-term employees.

LuAnn and Vincent’s daughter, Christine, and son-in-law, J.C. Rocha, will be taking over as majority owners. Both have been involved in the business for years.

Kimberly (Kim) Serfim, who has been working alongside LuAnn for 13 years, will also be moving into a partnership role. “I started off as a showroom coordinator, then morphed into LuAnn’s assistant and then into sales,” she says. “I now run the entire interior design sales division of the company. I always functioned as if my name was on the door, so when the opportunity came up to be a partner, it made sense.”

Kim has learned a lot from LuAnn. “Not only the window treatment side of it, but also from a business standpoint,” she says. “She imparts her wisdom onto others and it’s been exciting to watch her, the business, and her podcast grow.”

LuAnn created and hosts the Window Works podcast, A Well-Designed Business®, which has been rated the number one podcast for the Interior Design business community. Her book, The Making of a Well-Designed Business®, is an essential guide for entrepreneurs to create their own successful businesses.

38 E Northfield Road, Livingston 973-535-5860 www.windowworks-nj.com

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Women in Business

Yris VanBrakle, PTA LightPort Physical Therapy & Spa

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ris is an experienced and dedicated Physical Therapy Assistant, trained as a Graston Technique Provider, who has been involved in the healthcare field for 15+ years. She is currently providing excellent care to patients at LightPort Physical Therapy & Spa, where her experience and skills have contributed to the award of three Best of Essex medals for PT: 2021 Gold Medal, 2019 Gold Medal & 2018 Silver Medal.

Throughout her career, she has been working with patients with various health conditions and disabilities, making sure they always feel comfortable and receive the best care possible. She is passionate about her job, and her biggest professional reward is when patients are able to notice the significant improvement they feel after completing physical treatment with her.

Nicole Zornitzer

355 Bloomfield Ave., Caldwell | 973-228-0072 www.LightPortPT.com

Niyama Yoga Shalas, Founder

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icole Zornitzer, founder of Niyama Yoga and Wellness Studios has a background in modern dance that led her on her path to ultimately find yoga. Nicole is an E-RYT 2000 Certified Yoga Therapist with additional degrees in Ayurvedic Medicine, Integral Sound Therapy, Reiki Healing Level 2, Advanced Yin Yoga, Pre-Natal Yoga, Children’s Yoga, Aerial Yoga, Mindful Barre Fusion, and Yoga Nidra. Niyama Yoga Shalas is proud to also be a world-renowned training school for incoming RYT 200, RYT 300, Meditation and Advanced Yin Yoga Teacher Training under the Yoga Alliance.

She believes that the best teacher is also the student and therefore created a wellness model that encourages The Art of Self Study (Svadhayaya), which is her businesses mission statement. Nicole leads both Domestic and International Yoga Retreats quarterly each calendar year and in 2022 will be launching a Yoga Retreat Company under the Niyama Yoga Shala umbrella.

With a 24-year career in business and marketing for a fortune 500 company, Nicole has used her keen business sense to create Niyama Yoga Shalas which now includes 4 independent wellness centers which span across New Jersey and Florida.

Madeline Soglin MadKat Pilates, Owner

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adeline Soglin, owner of MadKat Pilates, is the real deal when it comes to having a Pilates pedigree.

She and her instructors teach in the classical Romana’s Pilates method that was handed down directly from Joseph Pilates. Madeline personally trained with Romana Kryzanowska and her daughter Sari Mejia Santo.

Her methods are the basis of the workouts she custom creates for their clients. The exercises are designed to strengthen the deep abdominal muscles, increase flexibility and teach increased awareness of the breath and alignment of the spine.

Since 2008, Nicole has been the appointed yoga instructor for the Livingston Public School System, bringing youth her passion for yoga and meditation. Nicole has specialized much of her career in training athletes, including the NY Jets Football Team and various tennis and lacrosse professionals.

Perhaps that’s why MadKat Pilates has won the gold medal for Best Pilates Studio seven consecutive times. MadKat and Maddie have helped clients achieve true physical well-being, strength and inner balance. Read over the testimonials from clients who find themselves stronger, healthier, more flexible and agile. As one client said, “ I feel that at MadKat, for the first time, I am really learning what Pilates is.”

161 Eagle Rock Ave., Roseland | 973-500-2939 www.niyamayogashala.com

855 Bloomfield Ave., Glen Ridge | 973-707-7695 www.madkatpilates.com

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Women in Business

Karen Zamloot B. Savvy Consignment, Owner

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aren Zamloot has always had a passion for fashion.

She earned a Marketing degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology and went on to work in New York City’s fashion industry for over ten years.

Following her dream of owning a boutique, she started B. Savvy with a friend nine years ago.

Since then, she’s taken over the business and is thrilled to be able to offer sustainable fashion at affordable prices. B. Savvy is a unique shopping destination offering better brands to high end designer handbags, shoes, clothing, jewelry and accessories.

176 Eagle Rock Ave, Roseland | 973-226-8800 BSavvyBoutique.com

Paula Markman Decorating Den Interiors Franchisee

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aula Markman always dreamed of having her own business. With interior design being her passion, she decided to leave the corporate world and found fulfillment with a Decorating Den Interiors franchise. She offers clients her personalized service, custom interior designs and an array of extensive home furnishing options— without having to leave your home.

Working as an Decorating Den Interior designer has been gratifying for Markman, as she is able to utilize all of her talents.

Her left-brain skills help set realistic budgets for projects while her creative right-brain goes to work crafting and creating dream rooms. Her clients find her fun to work with and she has a great eye for design. Testimonials attest to her ability to put together a beautiful room, all while staying on budget.

Markman’s skills have brought success. She won the 2021 Best of Essex Contest for best interior designer. This January she achieved top 40 sales status out of Decorating Den’s hundreds of franchises.

973-803-2126 | paulamarkman@decoratingden.com

Dr. Tyra Manso Montclair Pediatric Dental Care

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beautiful smile can last forever. And the best way to get one is with an early start in dental care. Dr. Tyra Manso, DDS, and her diligent staff at Montclair Pediatric Dental Care (MPDC) help children with healthy beginnings in dental care.

For Dr. Manso, working with children has been rewarding.

During Dr. Manso’s final year of dental school, her professors recognized her knack for pediatric dentistry. She first practiced dentistry in New York City, married, and had a son. After the birth of her son, she knew she wanted to build her own pediatric dental office..

In Montclair, she established a new practice, transforming an old dance studio to meet her vision of what a pediatric dental office should be. “Children are so malleable and impressionable. Here was my opportunity to create an environment just for children and their needs,” she says.

Although MPDC offers a full array of dental procedures, preventative care is at the heart of the practice. Early prevention is the way to have healthy teeth and eliminate the fear of going to the dentist early on. “Good preventative care, such as brushing teeth and regular dental visits are lifelong habits to develop,” she remarks.

Dr. Manso reflects on being a woman dentist and entrepreneur as MPDC celebrates its sixth anniversary. She advises women to write a reason for their own business.

Ask: Whom am I serving? What am I pouring into this business through service? This way, success happens.

What motivates Dr. Manso to maintain a successful practice? “My son is proud of me,” she says.

31 Valley Rd., Montclair | 973-771 5387 www.montclairpediatricdental.com

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Women in Business

Dr. Kelly DiStefano Montclair Rejuvenation Center

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nder the direction of Dr. Kelly DiStefano, Montclair Rejuvenation Center has grown into one of the largest and most innovative full-service Medspa’s in Essex County. Their Verona office offers state-of-the-art aesthetic and wellness services at reasonable prices.

Each patient’s course of treatment begins with an in-depth consultation. A plan is put together to help their patients look more youthful without surgery. The practice specializes in non-invasive treatments like Botox®, dermal fillers, and PDO thread lifts.

These work to enhance facial features.

To help rejuvenate the skin and stimulate hair growth, the team at Montclair Rejuvenation Center offers innovative platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments. Other skin enhancement options include microneedling, chemical peels, CO2 Fraxel treatments, hydra facials, PRP treatments and many other options.

Dual Sculpting helps improve your body shape without pain or down time using CoolSculpting®, a noninvasive body sculpting treatment that reduces fat in targeted areas.

Laser hair removal, spray tanning and cryotherapy are also available.

Montclair Rejuvenation Center helps patients feel their best, too. In addition to the many available aesthetic services, they provide wellness services for stress relief and health optimization. Using the Fit3D scanner, they evaluate patients’ body fat, muscle mass, posture, and more. The clinic provides nutritional counseling, acupuncture, massages, and FemiLift vaginal revitalization to help patients take charge of their well-being.

MRC has expanded into West Caldwell.

They now have two convenient locations.

To look and feel your best call or book your consultation online today.

One Mount Prospect Avenue, Verona | 761 Bloomfield Avenue, West Caldwell 973-650-3204 | montclairrejuvenationcenter.com

Dawn Sorenson & Gina Cifelli Owners of On Bloom Boutique

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n Bloom owners Dawn Sorenson and Gina Cifelli, who have spent many years in the fashion and beauty industries, have a flair for fashion. They both want their customers to allow their personal styles to BLOOM via great personalized and intimate shopping experiences. They work hard to cultivate client’s wardrobes and accessories to complement their lifestyle needs.

While the women thrive on creating relationships and face-to-face customer service, they realize customers seek other avenues of service and thus aside from a brick-and-mortar store, they offer a robust website, where customers can shop the entire store at their convenience.

On Bloom also provides private parties at the store and in homes; trunk shows; special events; charitable events; and more. The store opened in 2019 with a goal of bringing a traditional clothing boutique to the Caldwells for a feel-good environment and Dawn and Gina cherish being part of the downtown business community. “We love serving the community and have made some wonderful personal connections with our clients and want to help them look their best,” says Dawn.

342 Bloomfield Ave, Caldwell | 973-228-2230 | www.shoponbloom.com

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Dawn Sorenson

Gina Cifelli

Women in Business

Valerie Ruddy Valerie Ruddy Designs— Decorating Den Interiors

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alerie Ruddy is the owner and Principal Designer of Valerie Ruddy Designs – Decorating Den Interiors located in Verona, NJ. She leads an award-winning design team who delivers full-service solutions for her client’s homes and offices.

Valerie believes that designing shouldn’t be stressful.

Communication is key for creating an enjoyable design process. “We try very hard to educate our clients on the products, timeline and reasons behind every design decision,” say Ruddy.

She also realizes your time is very important. “We work as efficiently as possible so that you aren’t spending nights and weekends out shopping with us. Instead, samples and presentations are brought to you so you can see everything in the exact space we are working in,” she states.

Valerie cares deeply that you not only love your completed space, but that you enjoy the entire process along the way.

973-239-3004 | valerieruddy.decoratingden.com

Brittany DeMaio Owner, New Moon Photography

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New Moon signifies a new start. And that is exactly what Brittany DeMaio was looking for when she opened her New Moon Photography studio in Montclair.

Many moons ago DeMaio was working in the corporate world, dreaming of opening a photography studio. She took a leap of faith, and six years later finds herself beyond grateful and excited to go to work each day.

She has a team of coworkers that feels more like family than employees.

Her studio’s expertise is newborn and family photography, capturing the moments and milestones before they pass by.

She makes it easy for families to use her services. Her heartmelting collection of newborn photos on her website are a testament to her expertise.

54 S. Park St., Montclair | 973-509-0792 www.newmoonphotographynj.com

Dr. Linda Stone & Dr. Vanna Stone Gentle Caring Dentistry

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other and daughter, Dr. Linda Stone, and Dr. Vanna Stone, share a dental practice at Gentle Caring Dentistry in Livingston.

Established by Dr. Linda, Gentle Caring Dentistry reflects her lifelong passion for providing quality dental work with compassionate care.

Dr. Vanna joined her mother in practice after completing dental school. “There was never a specific moment I realized I wanted to become a dentist. I was constantly exposed to my mom’s love and passion for her work and soaked it up throughout my childhood.”

Gentle Caring Dentistry’s goal is to provide the highest quality care for each patient in a relaxed setting. Further, they believe in educating their patients. “Taking the time to explain things and involve people into their own treatment decision is so important for helping reduce fear and making sure each patient is getting the right care for them,” remarks Dr. Vanna.

Both dentists believe that the power of a beautiful smile is magical. Dr. Linda will never forget how much a smile transformed a person’s life. She recalled a director of a corporation who was embarrassed by her teeth and never smiled so she was perceived as being a cold person. After achieving a beautiful smile people actually treated her differently.

Being passionate about your work and staying abreast of the latest industry developments is vital for a successful business.

Says Dr. Linda, “Your work reflects you. Love what you do.”

201 S. Livingston Avenue, Ste. 2c, Livingston 973-994 3112 | www.gentlecaringdentistry.com

March 2022

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Women in Business

Celestina Ando

Julie Winer

Celestina Ando Photography

Splurge Bakery

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elestina is a contemporary portrait photographer. Her work has been seen in The Huffington Post, Downtown Magazine NYC, and featured in New Jersey publications.

In 2019-2021, her studio won Gold for Best Photographer in the Best of Essex Readers’ Choice Awards contest. In 2021, she received a Silver merit for a portrait in the International Portrait Masters Awards. She specializes in magazine-style portraits while focusing on an authentic and empowering experience. She will create legacy portraits that clients can treasure for generations to come.

7 Park Street, Ste. 202, Montclair | 201-381-0180 www.celestinaando.com

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ombining her background in marketing/advertising with baking skills, Julie Winer launched her first product—delicious cookies featuring her clients’ company logo. In 2006, Julie hired local women and professional bakers to fulfill her first big order—8,000 corporate logo cookies.

The demand continued, and offerings expanded rapidly. In 2010, Julie opened Splurge Bakery’s storefront in Millburn.

Splurge is a family enterprise with husband Stephen, daughter Raquel, and a dedicated staff of professionals. Aware of the changing palates of her clients, Julie constantly develops creative new products. Her latest selection will include a spa menu of plant-based delectables low in sugar. New online ordering makes selecting, placing, and receiving orders simple.

Splurge ships nationwide.

“If you have a dream, go for it. The road is sometimes challenging, but worth the pursuit. It took me two years to find a location, and our business plan remains flexible to respond to our clients’ needs. Your business needs to evolve continuously to be successful.”

105 Main Street, Millburn | 973-379-0740 www.splurgebakery.com

Lynne Strober Mandelbaum Barrett, PC

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hen Lynne Strober was studying social work and social justice in college, she realized that those were only the first two steps on her journey to help others. While she liked the compassionate listening component, she also wanted to add a proactive element that would involve positive changes in people’s lives. She found that opportunity in law.

In 1983, she joined Mandelbaum Barrett, PC and has prospered there ever since.

“The firm operates according to my values,” says Lynne. “It was and remains a caring and compassionate firm that encourages work/life balance and supports parents with flexibility.”

As a family law attorney, she utilizes her background in social work in order to approach cases in an empathetic way. Combined with her law expertise, she has the ability and critical skills to

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develop the best strategies and negotiation techniques to accomplish her clients’ goals.

“I understand that critically important issues facing clients with family law problems require a tough and tenacious advocate,” she says. “I pride myself on fighting for the best resolutions for my clients.”

With a distinguished career as a seasoned practitioner, becoming a lawyer was clearly the right choice for Lynne. She is well-known for handling complex custody cases and high net worth cases, serves on several legal committees, and is a former president and current board member of the Barry Croland Family Law American Inn of Court.

“Law provides intellectual challenge, stimulates creativity, and is very rewarding as every case is different,” she says.

973-736-4600 | www.mblawfirm.com

Women in Business

Rebecca Berman Berman Branding

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erman Branding is a boutique marketing firm based in West Caldwell, NJ. Rebecca Berman founded the company to help small businesses achieve success. Drawing on over 20 years of experience in traditional and new media, Rebecca and her team of talented graphic artists work closely with Berman Branding’s clients to develop and implement bespoke strategies – all focused on the singular goal of growing their businesses.

Berman Branding recognizes that today’s business environment poses a variety of challenges. Nonetheless, whether your business is a start-up or an established company, it is essential to deliver on your brand’s promise and increase your customer base. Berman Branding is here to help. Its services range from comprehensive branding & marketing plans to website & logo design and optimization, as well as social media strategy. Rebecca’s team brings brands to life and helps small businesses make big impressions.

Prior to launching Berman Branding, Rebecca spent 15 years in the marketing industry, including senior roles at American Lawyer Media and Talk City, Inc. Her experience ranged from running an advertising division to advising Fortune 500 companies (e.g., Coca-Cola, IBM) regarding online marketing strategies. Rebecca graduated from the University of Pennsylvania, where she earned a Bachelors in Psychology, as well as a concentration in Marketing from the Wharton School. She obtained her MBA in Marketing from New York University’s Stern School of Business.

646-369-4612 | rebecca@bermanbranding.com | bermanbranding.com

Veronica Wheat Chef V

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eronica Wheat advocates health through good nutrition. With a chef and a certified nutritional therapist background, she finds innovative ways to help her clients receive the ultimate benefits of good food.

Veronica previously worked as a private chef in San Diego, specializing in organic cuisine. With each meal, she included a specially prepared beverage. Full of green plant nutrients, this drink was an instant hit.

Word spread quickly of this magical concoction as clients experienced improvements in their energy, hair, skin, nails, weight loss, and lowered blood sugar. Soon, she decided to focus solely on health-enhancing beverages and soups. Chef V became her signature restaurant.

In San Diego and her second location in West Caldwell, Chef V promotes this organic green drink low in sugar and non-homogenized to preserve its nutrients. The menu includes the original beverage, protein shakes, and vegan soups, and packaged plans for detoxification and weight loss. A national business, most products are shipped directly to clients.

Customers in New Jersey, New York, and California may have the products personally delivered.

“If you have passion and an authentic product, success will come naturally,” she says.

897 Bloomfield Ave., West Caldwell | 973-227 0227 www.chefv.com March 2022

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Women in Business

Carol Karsos Partner of East Hanover Diner

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arol Karsos knows the restaurant business inside out. Being born into a restaurant family, it is all she has ever known. Karsos met her husband, Michael, one summer when she was working in her family’s restaurant—the Brookside Dinner. Michael later bought the restaurant with his brothers John and George. After graduating from college with a Management/Marketing Degree, Karsos married Michael and became the restaurant’s fourth partner. In 2013, the four owners bought their current restaurant, the East Hanover Diner.

The East Hanover Diner is a traditional Greek Diner that offers standard menu fare. With freshly baked desserts and bread selections, patrons never leave the Diner hungry. Traditional Greek cuisine is also a daily specialty.

Michelle Gabriel-Caldwell Owner of Baby, Please Birth Services Agency LLC

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ichelle is the owner of Baby, Please Birth Services Agency LLC serving NJ, NY, PA, MD and GA, with six doulas on her team. She is a certified Birth Doula with: Bradley, National Black Doulas Association (NBDA), and DONA in addition to a certified Postpartum Doula with NBDA. Likewise, she is a certified Childbirth Educator teaching the Bradley Method®, Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth Class, and her own Holistic Childbirth Course expressly for The Birth Center of NJ, where she is the Doula Coordinator. Michelle is a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor soon to be a CLE. Michelle serves on the NBDA Advisory Board as well as being an NBDA® Certified Doula Instructor and Doula Mentor, Poppy Seed Health Advocate and Board Member of The Perinatal Health Equity Foundation.

Michelle’s birth passion began in 2005 by assisting over 430 families as a doula, training over 250 birth professionals as an Evidence Based Birth® Instructor and empowering over 1200 families as a childbirth educator.

She appeared in: NY Times: Why Black Women Are Rejecting Hospitals in Search of Better Births (June 2021); Netflix Documentary: Sex Explained (January 2020); Jezebel: What to expect when you’re expecting during a pandemic (April 2020); Every Mother Counts: Choices in Childbirth, Support Chapter (January 2022); and PATCH: 5 Stigmas Pregnant Black Women Face (February 2020).

Married for 25 years, and the mother of two, Michelle is also a full-time Chemical Engineer and Technical Editor.

973-309-2045 | babypleasebirthservices.com

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Karsos loves all aspects of the restaurant business, which she says is hard, grueling work. “You must have a good work ethic to succeed in the restaurant business. Challenges happen 24/7.” Still, owning and managing a diner is a great opportunity. “Where else can you offer your customers large portions at a great value?”

275 Route 10, E. Hanover | 973-884 8840 www.easthanoverdiner.com

Marie Khoury Pink Jewels

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hen Marie Khoury shops for merchandise for Pink Jewels, she doesn’t buy what she likes, but instead focuses on what her customers will love. “I don’t stick to one particular style or look,” she says.

“I know what my clients are going to like or find interesting.”

This is why it’s so important for her to get to know her customers. Since 2009, Pink Jewels has been establishing these close relationships. While the merchandise alone brings people in, she says it’s also the customer services that keeps people coming back. “Sometimes when you walk into a small boutique, you might just be browsing, but in some places, you feel pressured to buy. My whole philosophy is making sure everyone feels comfortable.”

Marie posts on Instagram each day, so customers can always see what’s new. In addition to jewelry, her store also offers home accessories, slippers, and other cool items.

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

Women in Business

Peaches Vizzio Owner, Vizzio’s Institute of Martial Arts

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eaches Vizzio does not have to be dragged kicking and screaming to work, although kicking is certainly part of her workday. Vizzio is the owner of Vizzio’s Institute of Martial Arts, now celebrating its 15th year in Fairfield.

Vizzio, known universally as Peaches, teaches an extremely traditional style of Kung Fu; she says, “We don’t water down anything.” Unlike at other martial arts schools, students taking promotion tests to move up in rank are not guaranteed success. In fact, she requires her students to earn all As and Bs in school to even qualify for a promotion test. Vizzio notes, “The kicking and punching are just exercise; Kung Fu is really about discipline, focus and learning to work through problems.”

1275 Bloomfield Ave., Bld.2, Ste. 11. Fairfield 973-575-KICK (5424) | www.vizzio.com

Gina Stempler Owner, Bra Mobile

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ina Stempler is the owner and founder of Bra Mobile, a unique and convenient bra fitting service for women of all shapes and sizes. Bra Mobile comes straight to your door where you receive an expert fitting in the privacy of your home. No more guesswork trying to purchase bras online; no more trips to the mall where you are inundated with overwhelming choices.

Former owner of an upscale Millburn lingerie boutique, Gina has over a decade’s worth of experience in the industry and is currently partnered with a dozen leading manufacturers of lingerie as well as some lesser known boutique-only brands specializing in hard-to-fit sizing.

Affectionately known as “The Fairy Bra Mother,” she fits women of all ages—from young girls getting their first training bras to mature women of all sizes. Whether you are searching for everyday t-shirt bras, sports bras, nursing bras, strapless bras, special occasion bras or fine European lingerie, Bra Mobile has you covered.

973-568-8141 | bramobile.com

Dr. Helen Chiu, DDS Chiu Dental Care

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s a child, Dr. Helen Chiu was good with her hands, and enjoyed painting and drawing. By the time she was in college, she also knew she wanted to be her own boss. So, although no one in her family was a dentist, she decided on dentistry as a career—a choice her patients have applauded for more than 25 years.

It has not always been easy. She needed to navigate the sometimes-competing needs of parenthood and her practice.

At one point, she had to hire someone to drive one of her children to and from school. But she was able to establish a strong team in her office, and her family was completely supportive of her efforts.

Now, with multiple generations as patients, she re-energizes herself by embracing the many new technologies and procedures modern dentistry offers. She’s excited to go to seminars teaching about new tools she can use to help patients.

Helping patients improve their dental health, and through that, their overall health, remains a major source of job satisfaction.

She described one patient whose mouth and teeth needed a full year of work to restore. That patient, she said, is now able to feel much better about herself, not just her teeth.

Under Dr. Chiu, Chiu Dental Care will always make “care” a real promise to all patients.

248 Columbia Tpk, Florham Park | 973-377-0224 www.chiudentalcare.com

March 2022

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Women in Business

Randy Elman

Toby Cederbaum, LMT

Artistic Director, Musical Theatre Conservatory

LightPort Physical Therapy & Spa

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andy Elman’s Julliard graduate parents and musical upbringing gave her the performing bug and a deep appreciation of the benefits of the performing arts. So, it’s only natural that she has devoted her working life to bringing this joy to children, first working with her parents until they passed, and now as the owner of the Musical Theatre Conservatory (MTC).

Elman’s teaching philosophy is instilled through the school’s “Theatre for Life” motto. While the students blossom as singers, dancers, and actors, and grow friendships with a caring community, Elman and her staff work to ensure that the self-confidence they gain in performing can be carried through to their non-MTC lives. Elman is proud of all of her students and is excited to see two of her former graduates currently on Broadway.

Randy is looking forward to this summer’s in-person 3-week program, where performing classes for all levels are mixed with fun and a “camp experience.” The final performance showcases each student’s growth in their abilities as both individual and group performers.

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ightPort’s resident NJ Licensed Massage Therapist. She brings over 30 years of experience working with people from all walks of life. It’s been a very rewarding career helping people to reach their potential while guiding them towards a healthy lifestyle.

She practices Shiatsu, Lymphatic Drainage, Myofascial Release, Trigger Point, Geriatric, Prenatal, Reiki and Energy Work.

In addition, Toby teaches Eating Awareness (EAT) Training, A 4-week program where the goal is to Awaken to the Wisdom of the Body. Toby believes that EAT Program is the path to freedom by discovering the body’s innate wisdom, and she is very happy to share her knowledge and experience with her clients.

355 Bloomfield Ave., Caldwell | 973-228-0072 www.LightPortPT.com

973-868-6259 | www.musicaltheatreconservatory.com

Lisa Fried-Grodin Employment Law Attorney, Partner and Co-Founder Meyers Fried-Grodin LLP, Morristown, NJ

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ave you ever had a stressful or dicey workplace problem that you don’t know how to solve? Employment Law attorney Lisa Fried-Grodin has devoted her 20-year legal career to providing clients in New Jersey and New York with practical, effective solutions to these problems.

She is passionate about giving employees who have experienced discrimination, harassment and retaliation a voice and an action plan, and for guiding small to mid-sized, growing businesses on the right path. Lisa provides a calm, thoughtful approach and works closely with her clients to understand their goals and develop the best strategy for each of them.

Some of the issues Lisa commonly handles are litigation and non-litigation matters regarding employee discipline, wrongful termination, sexual harassment, discrimination, medical and family leave, whistleblower/retaliation, workplace safety, contract disputes, and wage and hour requirements. She also conducts employment investigations, and drafts and advises on employee handbooks, separation agreements, noncompetes and other employment contracts.

Lfriedgrodin@mfglegal.com | 973-241-7512 www.mfglegal.com www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-fried-grodin-5476117 www.avvo.com/attorneys/07960-nj-lisa-friedgrodin-1611396.html#client_reviews

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Women in Business

The Women Power of Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Van Der Wende Properties

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isa has been a Realtor since 1984, living and working extensively in Essex and Passaic counties. Her experience and knowledge of the communities and housing market make her an expert in giving home sellers and buyers reliable information.

As a full-time agent, she lives and breathes real estate.

Between an upbringing in the building industry and a successful career for 37 years, Lisa provides the best real estate experience to all.

A professional you can trust!

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lexa Benavente grew up in Fairfield and graduated from West Essex High School, and MSU. She’s a local market expert in the West Essex Real Estate area. She is known for her expertise with social media, marketing, and hard work ethic. Understanding how to network with today’s consumer enables her to deliver results in high pressure situations. Alexa is trustworthy and has a strong desire to win for clients, while always doing the right thing.

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ori is a dedicated Real Estate Professional with 28 years of experience. Her primary market focus is residential and multifamily homes, and she is happy to work with sellers, home buyers as well as investors.

She’s a lifelong resident of Clifton and enjoys serving surrounding communities.

Lori is a proud multiple time BHHS Award winner. She enjoys spending her free time with family, participating in community service, and traveling.

heresa Venezia is an award-winning Real Estate Agent in Caldwell and Little Falls, NJ. She has extensive expertise throughout Essex and Passaic Counties and has been awarded numerous distinctions for her excellence in salesmanship. When she isn’t buying and selling homes for her clients, she enjoys giving back to her community.

Theresa leads the Toys for Tots program for her company and serves as a proud board member for the Cystinosis Foundation of New Jersey.

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P

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ichelle Christenson is an accomplished Real Estate Professional with extensive knowledge of Passaic and Essex Counties.

Her comprehension of the market is unmatched, and her ability to assist clients in navigating the ever-changing market is amazing. She goes above and beyond for her clients to ensure a seamless and pleasant experience with each transaction.

Michelle’s dedication and work ethic recently awarded her the BHHS Leading Edge Award-2021.

ancy started her career in 1992 and progressed to Realtor Broker in 1993.

She specializes in sales and rentals of single, multifamily townhomes and condominiums in Essex, Passaic, Bergen and Morris Counties. Nancy’s praised by clients fort her patience, close attention to detail and dedication. Her expertise developed throughout her career is an invaluable service ensuring a smooth transaction from meeting to closing. She’s a proud multi year recipient of NJAR “Circle of Excellence.”

amela Kutoroff, Realtor in Essex County since 2002 understands that thoroughness in every aspect in the real estate process has helped her provide the highest level in personalized service. Nate from Bloomfield: “I would recommend Pamela to anyone seeking an honest realtor who is extremely good at communicating and whose expertise will help overcome any and all obstacles throughout the process.” Pamela is a Berkshire Hathaway repeat Honor Society Award winner and Luxury Collection Specialist.

March 2022

isette Sanchez Viola is a dedicated Real Estate professional who has been awarded the BHHS Leading Edge award-2021.

Representing sellers and buyers, Lisette is committed to listening to her clients’ needs and utilizing her keen negotiating skills to ensure a successful transaction. She’s communicative, thorough and will be alongside you every step of the way. Lisette enjoys spending her spare time with her husband of 23 years, her lovely daughter and adorable teacup yorkie!

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You’re only 45.

You still need a colon cancer screening.

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

Along with eating healthy and regular exercise, your best bet for good colon health is to get regular screenings.

NCI Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center

Should your screening indicate the need for treatment, we offer the latest options, from complex surgical procedures and radiation therapy to clinical trials and precision medicine. Remember, the recommended age to start screenings is now 45. It’s never too early to prevent colorectal cancer.

Schedule your appointment at rwjbh.org/colonscreening

Health, Local Buzz Wellness

Women in STEM: Invisible No More

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o you know a girl in middle school or starting in high school, who has expressed some interest in science, technology, engineering or mathematics and might want to pursue a career in it? Research shows that out-of-school experiences that connect girls with women in STEM careers can be instrumental in countering gender stereotypes and helping girls self-identify with STEM. “Women in STEM: Invisible No More” is a meet and greet program that is designed to connect the girls with women in STEM careers. Girls will have an opportunity to engage with professional women in small groups for a period of time after which they will switch groups. Light refreshments will be available to facilitate any mingling and networking.

March 8, 6:30pm Community House, 25 Cook Avenue, Madison Register at volunteersignup.org/8L4AA. www.aauwmadisonnj.com

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

Meticulous Office CDC Covid Practices and Precautions Telemedicine Appointments Available Our Centers Offer: • Services for Children Coping with the Pandemic • Individual/Family/Couples/Children and Teen Therapy • Variety of Clinical Therapy Expertise • Most Insurances Accepted Dr. Christopher Barker,

Dr. Keith Morgen,

Director of Discovery Psychotherapy Center

Director of Discovery Wellness Center

862-242-3500 info@DiscoveryWellnessCenterNJ.com

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 March 2022

www.DiscoveryPsychCenter.com MySuburbanEssex.com

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Health, Wellness

Building Strength Effortlessly S

elf-care doesn’t always look like bubble baths or long, arduous sessions at the gym. Sometimes it’s just stealing mere minutes out of the day, like finally treating yourself to your favorite cup of tea or taking your lunch break to get some fresh air. Or wearing weighted bracelets that discreetly are disguised as chic jewelry that can help to achieve the strength building you been looking for. They are versatile and can be worn all day…during school drop offs, Zoom calls, yoga and Pilates class, spin, teaching…wherever you are.

The individual Cali Weights bracelet weighs in at one fourth of a pound and can be stacked together for added challenge, allowing you to effortlessly activate your muscles, without sacrificing the moments that matter most. They are water and sweatproof.

Cali Weights www.caliweights.com

Personalized, Professional & Convenient Care for Your Retinal Problems.

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

FOOTCARE

YOU CAN COUNT ON. Suburban Essex

2021 Gold Winner

VOTED BEST PODIATRIST

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

• Diabetic Retinopathy • Macular Degeneration • Retinal Detachment

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.

• Macular Holes • Ocular Trauma

• 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

Kurt T. Jackson, MD

862-904-8349 22 Old Short Hills Road, Suite 202, Livingston, NJ

www.JacksonEyeCare.com 66

Suburban Essex

March 2022

Call for an Appointment | 973.857.1184 886 POMPTON AVENUE, SUITE A-1, CEDAR GROVE

CedarGroveFoot.com

Health, Wellness

CONFIDENCE IN YOUR SMILE & YOUR DENTIST

The Benefits of Float Therapy

N

eed to improve sleep, relieve anxiety, or just want to experience a moment of total peace and quiet? Salt Float Center in Montclair is ready to offer you all that and more by welcoming you to the world of floating!

Float therapy involves lying on your back in a sound and lightproof room or pod in 10 inches of water in which over a 1,000 pounds of Epsom Salt has been dissolved. The salt provides the same buoyancy as the Dead Sea and the water temperature matches your skin. Combined, these effects give the sensation that there actually is no water and that you are just floating in space. This environment of blissful zero gravity removes all of the tension on your muscles, joints and tendons.

The list of scientific benefits continues to grow. Floating is relaxing and fun. It can also: reduce bodily inflammation, alleviate pain, improve sleep, reduce stress and anxiety, alleviate symptoms of depression and PTSD, improve focus, and boost creativity. Book a float session to discover how this deep relaxation and complete comfort unlocks and unburdens your mind while your body heals.

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Linda E. Stone, DMD, FAGD, AACD Vanna N. Stone, DMD, AGD, AACD Doctors trust Dr. Linda Stone and Dr. Vanna Stone because of their experience, skills and technique.

Patients trust Dr. Linda Stone and Dr. Vanna Stone because of their sensitivity to patient needs, artistry and an honest straightforward approach to cosmetic dentistry.

Salt Float Center

• Family Dentistry

• Cosmetic Bonding

149 Valley Road, Montclair | 973-744-7258 (SALT) www.saltfloatcenter.com

• Invisalign Certified

• Zoom! Whitening

• Extreme Makeovers

• Conscious Sedation

• ”Hollywood Smiles”

• Porcelain Veneers

• Implant Restorations

• Crowns & Bridges

Making Healthier Easier with Our Green Drink & Organic Cleanses!

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Suburban Essex

2021 Gold Winner

Complimentary nitrous oxide is provided for your comfort & relaxation

Boost Energy, Increase Metabolism, Improve Eating Habits & Lose Weight with Chef V. Farm fresh, certified organic, plant-based foods, and raw green drinks—Handmade then delivered to your door by Private Chef & Nutritional Therapist, Veronica

CALL FOR YOUR CONSULTATION!

973.994.3112

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

201 South Livingston Avenue, Suite 2C, Livingston, NJ

GentleCaringDentistry.com

March 2022

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Health, Wellness

Easing Children’s Fear of Water and What to Look for in Swim Classes

L

earning to swim not only provides kids the opportunity to enjoy lots of water-filled fun.

It's essential to their safety. It also helps kids build strength and endurance, is an excellent form of exercise, and builds kids' confidence.

Too ease your child’s fears of the water, provide your child with a variety of water experiences and opportunities to get used to getting their face wet. Let your child wet and wash their own hair. Also, have your child try the shower with you. In warm weather, give your youngster a kiddie pool to splash around in and a sprinkler to run through.

Do not force your fearful little one into the pool. It can ultimately increase your child's fears. At the same time, don't make a big todo about your child's fearfulness, either. Instead, offer encouragement and allow your kid time to warm up to the pool. Offer praise for each step of progress your child makes, even if it's just dipping their

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March 2022

By Kimberly Blaker feet in the water. Look for ways to make being in the water a pleasurable experience. Rewards can help. Offer your child an ice cream cone, trip to the park, or small prize on the way home for taking a big step.

What to Look for in Swim Classes Swim instructors should be trained trained and evaluated under the guidelines of a reputable agency—such as the YMCA or Red Cross. Also, make sure the instructor is child-centered.

Teaching kids to swim is different from teaching adults. It requires patience, understanding, and positive reinforcement.

for student-teacher ratios based on the American Red Cross Learn-to-Swim program.

• Children up to 4-years-old and attended in the pool by their parent, 12:1 ratio • Ages 3-5, with a buoyancy device, 6:1 • Kids 6 and up, 8:1; for advanced classes, 10:1

Make sure the pool is heated to at least 84°F for children over 6. If under 3, the temperature should be at least 87°F. A cool pool makes it harder to focus on learning and get comfortable in the water.

Ask if the pool chlorine and PH levels are tested regularly. Low PH causes eye irritation. Low chlorine levels can be a health risk. If you're in doubt, pick up a test kit at a hardware store.

Find out the class size and ratio of students to instructors.

Also, do instructors get in the pool with the kids, or do they instruct from the deck? Here are some excellent guidelines

Make sure parents are allowed some ability to observe if they choose. It can be through a window or at the start or end of classes. When parents can attend the entire class, having additional eyes on the kids adds an extra layer of safety.

Let Us Give You a Reason to SMILE! Whether it is a fear of pain or needles, a cosmetic challenge, mystery toothaches, or a complex dental problem, Dr. Chiu is here to help.

All services are provided on premise, including gum care, placing surgical implants and mini implants.

Complementary Comprehensive Exam & Full Mouth X-Rays Must present this coupon. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Offer expires 03/31/22.

Helen P. Chiu, DMD, PA Experienced, Comprehensive Gentle Care 248 Columbia Turnpike, Florham Park, New Jersey 07932

973-377-0224

www.ChiuDentalCare.com March 2022

FELLOW OF ACADEMY OF GENERAL DENTISTRY

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Health, Wellness

VOTED BEST MEDI-SPA GOLD WINNER!

Thank You for Voting for Us!

Suburban Essex

2021 Gold Winner

Sleeping Position Pros & Cons

H

ere are some of the pros and cons of go-to nightly postures, according to the National Sleep Foundation.

Back: Lying on your back and assuming a neutral body position typically results in the least amount of strain on your head, neck and spine. But studies show links between back sleepers and snoring, so if this is something you are prone to, try flipping to your side. Also, sleeping on your back is not a good choice if you have sleep apnea, because your tongue can fall back, narrowing the airway.

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M O N TC L A I R R E J U V E N AT I O N C E N T E R Two convenient locations in Verona & West Caldwell 1 MOUNT PROSPECT AVENUE, VERONA, NJ 07044 761 BLOOMFIELD AVENUE, WEST CALDWELL, NJ 07006

973-298-4395 GENERAL INQUIRIES: 973-650-3204 APPOINTMENTS:

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Side: Side-sleeping, which is the most common position for adults, helps to open our airways to allow for steady airflow to the lungs. Researchers have found resting on the side may boost brain health, at least when monitoring the sleeping patterns of laboratory animals, but a separate study showed the potential for increased wrinkles in side-sleepers.

Fetal position: The fetal position helps improve circulation and is a good bet for people who tend to snore. Be sure not to curl too tightly as you drift off, however, as it may cause difficulty breathing.

Stomach: Sleeping on your stomach may make breathing regularly a challenge because airway passages could be compromised. Others may experience neck pain or tingling in joints and muscles due to poor circulation, which is a common challenge for people with diabetes. To help avoid putting pressure on the spine, tuck a pillow under your pelvis to keep a neutral lumbar position. One other negative: Enhanced wrinkles may be a side effect of stomach slumber.

While changing your default sleeping position is no easy task, you can help the process by supporting your head and legs with pillows designed for your ideal position.

“Regardless of your go-to sleep position, getting adequate rest is important to all aspects of your health,” said Dr. James Metcalf, a medical director with UnitedHealthcare Medicare & Retirement. “Hours of slumber enable our bodies and minds to recharge. Talk with your doctor if you’re having trouble getting a good night’s sleep.”

– BTP

Health, Wellness

Hear Better, Live Better Customized & Cost-Effective Audiology Services

The Art of Self-Study —

—

Educating, Nurturing and Energizing the Mind, Body & Soul.

By Sue Baldani

T

he state-of-the-art Montclair State University Center for Audiology and Speech Language Pathology offers full audiological evaluations, auditory processing testing, and balance testing services for individuals who are having dizziness or balance issues. But, what it mainly focuses on is providing hearing aids.

“We are able to offer hearing aids at a much more competitive rate than a private practice due to the fact that we’re a training institution,” says Dr. Faith Mogila, clinic director. “Also, when you go to a private practice, the audiologist typically works with only one or two different manufacturers, whereas we work with eight, which really allows us to find what’s best for all of our patients.”

Dr. Mogila finds helping the patients improve their quality of life while at the same time teaching her students to do the same for future patients is incredibly rewarding.

“We’re providing a a necessary service for the community,” says Dr. Mogila.

Yoga Therapy • Barre Fusion • Meditation Yoga Ropes • Thai Yoga Body-Work Integral Sound Therapy Ayurvedic Counseling • Reiki Energy Healing

973-500-2939

161 Eagle Rock Avenue, Roseland

Montclair State University Center for Audiology and Speech Language Pathology

www.niyamayogashala.com

973-655-3934 www.montclair.edu/communication-sciences-and-disorders/clinical-services/

Other Locations in: Randolph, Sparta & Delray Beach, Florida

The Premier Dental Home for Growing Smiles.

Dr. Tyra Manso is a Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist.

She believes that all children are unique and require different approaches in dealing with their behavior, guiding their dental growth and development, and preventing future dental problems.

To discover more or to schedule an appointment, please visit us online or give us a call.

31 Valley Rd, 2nd Fl, Montclair, NJ 07042 • 973-771-5387

www.MontclairPediatricDental.com Follow us on our social networks: @MontclairPediatricDental @MontclairPediatricDental March 2022

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Restaurant Guide

It is recommend to call in advance as reservations may be required.

CALDWELL

CEDAR GROVE

Cloverleaf Tavern

LuNello

395 Bloomfield Ave, Caldwell 973-226-9812 | www.cloverleaftavern.com American Cuisine

Dup Bap

182 Stevens Ave, Cedar Grove | 973-837-1660 www.LuNello.com Full Service Italian Restaurant

EAST HANOVER

691 Bloomfield Ave, West Caldwell 862-210-8164 dupbapnj123.wixsite.com Korean Cuisine. Take Out and Delivery available.

Franklin Steakhouse Fairfield 318 Passaic Avenue, Fairfield | 973-808-9400 American Fare

Prime 94 SteakHouse and Grill 94 Fairfield Rd Fairfield, NJ 07004 973-575-4555 Prime94steakhouse.com Traditional steakhouse

Tavern 292 292 Passaic Ave, Fairfield | 862-210-8867 www.tavern292.com American Cuisine

GLEN RIDGE Fitzgerald’s 1928 East Hanover Diner 275 NJ State Highway 10, East Hanover 973-884-8840 | www.EastHanoverDiner.com Classic American Cuisine

Fat Fish Taco 291 Bloomfield Avenue, Caldwell 973-228-6825 | www.fatfishtaco.com Coastal Mexican Cuisine

13 Herman Street, Glen Ridge | 973-748-4702 www.fitzgeralds1928.com American Bistro

LIVINGSTON

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

Assado 222 N Livingston Ave, Livingston 973-422-0501 | www.assadonj.com Portuguese Steakhouse

Il Vecchio Cafe 234 Bloomfield Ave, Caldwell | 973-226-8889 www.ilvecchiocafe.com Italian Cuisine

Ocha Caldwell 403 Bloomfield Ave, Caldwell | 973-228-8856 www.ochanj.com Asian Japanese Cuisine

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Calandra’s Mediterranean Grill Inside Hampton Inn Hotel 118 US Highway 46 East, Fairfield 973-575-6500 | www.calandrasmedgrill.com Northern Italian dishes with a Mediterranean Flair

Cocco Bello Café 155 S Livingston Ave, Livingston 973-992-1999 | www.coccobellocafe.com Italian Cuisine

Ike’s Bagel Cafe Cucina Calandra 216 US Highway 46 East, Fairfield 973-575-7720 Classic Italian

March 2022

277 Eisenhower Pkwy, Livingston 973-369-7528 | www.ikesbagelcafe.net Hand rolled bagels, NY style deli

Lithos Estiatorio

Thavma Mediterranean Grill

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

6230 Town Center, Livingston | 973-992-8999 www.thavmagrill.com Greek Cuisine

Master Pizza

MONTCLAIR

379 E Northfield Rd, Livingston 973-992-4500 | www.masterpizzaonline.com Specialty Pizza and Italian Cuisine

Amanti Vino 30 Church Street, Montclair 973-509-WINE (9463) Wine, beer, artisanal spirits, cheese, classes, and outdoor dining at Amanti Vinoteca.

Corso 98 98 Walnut St, Montclair | 973-746-0789 www.corso98.com Everyday Italian

Mezza Mediterranean 277 Eisenhower Pkwy, Livingston 973-992-9300 | www.mezzalivingston.com Mediterranean Fusion Cuisine

Ani Ramen House 511 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair 973-744-3960 | www.aniramen.com Asian Fusion Cuisine

Jack’s Seafood Shack & Oyster Bar 718 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair 973-893-5283 JacksSeafoodShackNJ.com Lobster & Seafood

The Salad House of Livingston 639 W. Mount Pleasant Ave, Livingston 973-721-3333 | www.thesaladhouse.com

Sweet Basils’ Cafe 498 South Livingston Ave, Livingston 973-994-3600 | www.sweetbasilscafe.com New American Cuisine

Aozora 407 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair 973-233-9400 | www.aozoramontclair.com Japanese and European Fusion

11 Time Consecutive BEST OF ESSEX Winner!

Fresh, Healthy & Authentic!

Crispy Shrimp with Honey Walnuts

HOURS: Sun-Thur 6am-1am Fri-Sat 6am-2am

275 NJ State Highway 10, East Hanover FOR PICK-UP ORDERS CALL 973-884-8840 WE DELIVER via Grub Hub/Uber Eats/DoorDash

www.EastHanoverDiner.com

Order Online at: www.TSMACC.com 199 Bellevue Avenue, Upper Montclair • 973.509.8878 Available for Take Out and Delivery Only INDOOR DINING NOW AVAILABLE IN WYCKOFF: 637 WYCKOFF AVENUE, WYCKOFF, NJ • 201.891.8878

March 2022

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

SHORT HILLS Par 440 Restaurant & Lounge

La Rocca Osteria 21 Midland Ave, Montclair | 973-746-0707 laroccaosteria.com Casual Italian Dining

440 Parsonage Hill Rd, Short Hills 973-467-8882 A full service restaurant, bar & lounge

TS Ma Chinese Cuisine

UPPER MONTCLAIR

199 Bellevue Ave, Upper Montclair 973-509-8878 www.TSMAChineseCuisine.com Chinese cuisine

VERONA Ariane Kitchen & Bar 706 Bloomfield Avenue, Verona 973-744-0533 | www.arianekb.com Seasonal. Delicious. Savory. Comfort food.

Laboratorio Kitchen

Marcel

615 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair 973-746-6100 www.thelaboratoriokitchen.com New American Cuisine

Blue Hippo Coffee Co.

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

662 Bloomfield Ave, Verona | 972-433-7891 www.bluehippocoffee.com Breakfast, lunch and brunch

Suburban Essex

2021 Gold Winner

BEST FULL SERVICE RESTAURANT GOLD WINNER Thank you for Voting for Us!

FARM TO TABLE CUISINE

AT ITS FINEST LuNello’s menu features decadent Italian dishes composed with the finest and freshest ingredients. This season, indulge in fresh fish dishes including halibut and bronzino.

FINE DINING

|

PRIVATE EVENT CATERING

182 STEVENS AVENUE, CEDAR GROVE, NJ 74

Suburban Essex

March 2022

|

|

HANDSOME BAR & LOUNGE

(973) 837-1660

|

WWW.LUNELLO.COM

WEST CALDWELL P.F. Seafood Restaurant 1090 Bloomfield Ave, West Caldwell | 973-277-1007 www.pfseafoodrestaurant.com Seafood

WEST ORANGE Chit Chat Diner 410 Eagle Rock Ave, West Orange 973-736-1989 | www.chitchatdiner.com Classic American Diner

Grill350 350 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange | 973-780-4572 www.grill350.com American Fare

Kim’s Sushi 458 Eagle Rock Ave, West Orange | 973-669-2800 kimssushinj.com Sushi and Japanese restaurant

OPEN SEVEN DAYS • WE ARE BYOB ESTABLISHMENT

LUNCH Daily 11:30am–3pm • DINNER Sun-Thu 5-9pm, Fri-Sat 5-10pm

277 EISENHOWER PARKWAY, LIVINGSTON Call for Reservations: 973.992.9300

Order Curbside Pickup & Delivery Online at:

WWW.MEZZALIVINGSTON.COM

BEST OUTDOOR DINING BRONZE WINNER!

Suburban Essex

Suburban Essex

2018

2021

Bronze Winner

Bronze Winner

MamaDags 410 St. Cloud Ave, West Orange | 862-233-7557 www.MamaDags.com Seafood + Pizza House

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

CATERING ON AND OFF SITE | BYOB OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Nicholas Anthony’s Family Kitchen 450 Main St, West Orange | 862-520-1252 www.nicholasanthonys.com Italian Restaurant

973-422-0501

222 N. LIVINGSTON AVE, LIVINGSTON

www.AssadoNJ.com March 2022

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The Best of Essex RESOURCE DIRECTORY Visit us online at BestofEssex.com Acupuncture.

Hair Salon.

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

At David Chad Beauty Salon, they continually push the beauty envelope to bring clients the upmost best in style, design and overall customer service. The salon’s location at the Grover House has an ambiance that is dubbed an ‘architectural masterpiece.’

Balanced Body Acupuncture

David Chad Beauty Salon

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

333 Bloomfield Avenue, Caldwell 973-287-6718 | www.davidchad.com

HVAC.

Dentist.

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 six years in a row. They also sell, install and provide maintenance service on home standby generators and air purification systems.

A multi-specialty dentistry serving Livingston, NJ and surrounding areas since 1996. Their specialties include Pediatric Dentistry, Orthodontics, Adult and Cosmetic Dentistry, and Periodontics. They are devoted to restoring and enhancing the natural beauty of your smile using safe, state-of-the-art procedures that will result in beautiful, long lasting smiles! They provide comprehensive treatment planning and use restorative and cosmetic dentistry to achieve optimal dental health.

Bloomfield Cooling & Heating

Kids & Family Dentistry

127 Paterson Avenue, Little Falls | 973-237-0505 www.BloomfieldCooling.com

Dr. Farideh Golestani & Assos.

471 West Mt. Pleasant Ave, Livingston | 973-597-1818 www.kidsfamilydentistry.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.

Gift Shop.

The Eclectic Chic Boutique is an Artisan Gift Boutique located in Downtown Montclair. They work with over 30 local artists, makers and entrepreneurs from all over NJ. They specialize handmade, locally sourced, small batch, and originally designed gifts, novelties and crafts.

They also offer craft classes and parties, both in person and virtual.

Richard Bailey Interiors, LLC

The Eclectic Chic Boutique

973-429-2106 | www.richardbaileyinteriors.com

547 Bloomfield Ave, Montclair, NJ 07042 | 862-221-0644 www.theeclecticchicboutique.com

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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

Kitchen Supplies.

A locally owned and operated full-service kitchen supply shop. Their expansive inventory features thousands of fun kitchenware items, so you will find all you need for cooking, baking, and entertaining. On-premises, overnight knife sharpening service is also offered.

Kitchen a la Mode 19 S Orange Ave, South Orange | 973-821-5145 www.kitchenalamode.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

Medi 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 1 Mt. Prospect Avenue, Verona | 761 Bloomfield Avenue, West Caldwell 973-650-3204 | www.montclairrejuvenationcenter.com

Painter.

“Professional,” “courteous,” and “exceptional” is how customers consistently describe Wilber’s Painting. Their highly trained staff of professionals knows what it takes to bring their client’s imagination to reality.

Pet Day Care/Boarding.

K-9 Resorts has been voted #1 Pet Service by multiple New Jersey magazines. This doggie daycare is recommended by veterinarians in the area and pet owners trust K-9 Resorts to take care of their pets and provide a healthy and safe environment for them.

K-9 Resorts Day Care & Luxury Hotel 1275 Bloomfield Avenue, Fairfield | 973-244-7387 www.k9resorts.com

Physical Therapy.

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

Realtor.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices is a real estate brokerage franchise network designed for today’s real estate market. From first time home buyers to high-end residential markets to middle market communities to commercial real estate, our franchisees are down to earth, nimble and local experts.

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Van Der Wende Properties 333 Bloomfield Avenue, Suite 304, Caldwell | 973-226-0333 www.BHHSVDW.com

Restaurant.

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 & Pizza House 410 St. Cloud Avenue, West Orange | 862.233.7557 www.patsysseafoodhouse.com

Wilber’s Painting & Home Improvements 973-762-6333 | www.WilbersPainting.com

March 2022

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Diamond Minds

The Early Years...

By Barry Farber

E

very child is a diamond in the rough. What we do with them during the early years of childhood determines a great deal about their overall development. I remember interviewing several well-known brain surgeons who recommended reading to your child at two months of age.

They told me the plasticity of a child’s brain is amazing and that they’re capable of learning 5 to 6 languages before the age of five years old. It made me think about what I was doing with my own three children in those early years and changed the way I look at how they learn.

This month I sat down with Mindy Kirschner to learn more about what we can do to enhance our children’s learning and development. Mindy is a Speech Pathologist and Clinical Director of Speak Your Mind, LLC, Speech Pathology Services in Randolph, New Jersey. www.speakyourmindllc.com Barry Farber: What are some of the activities you can do to enrich the development of an infant or toddler during the preschool years?

Mindy Kirschner: You can read to your child at infancy. At a few days old they hear their caregivers voice and learn to turn their heads towards the human voice. They don’t see particularly well but they hear. They start to orient towards familiar voices.

Start narrating your actions; “I’m picking you up.” “I see you, I see your eyes, I see your nose, I see your hands.” When you’re feeding the baby, changing their diaper and all throughout caregiving you’re teaching them the labels of objects and how they function.

You can imitate your babies movements. An infant at a few weeks old can start to stick their tongue out so you stick your tongue out. You pause, they stick their tongue out…you stick your tongue out. So they’re already engaging in turn taking in an activity.

BF: What are some ways to build their vocabulary?

MK: You can build their vocabulary by narrating your actions and narrating their actions and that is essentially through play.

But it could also be done by taking them on an errand. Take them to the grocery store. These are the fruits, these are the vegetables and teach them categories. When they’re young you want to build their vocabulary and make sure they are developing the grammar (real term is syntax) of their language.

Also ensuring their ability to produce sounds is age appropriate so others can understand them.

By 3 years old an unfamiliar adult should understand 90% of what your child says without context.

BF: What are some critical activities for early learning at age’s three to five years old?

MK: You can start to show them letters. “A” makes the “Ah” sound.

“A” as in “Apple”. This is a word.

It’s the word CAT. Show me cat…

Barry Farber (point to CAT) here’s CAT. You show me CAT. So you start showing them words on a page and they will recognize it. They’ll understand the concept of a page, the front of the book, the back of the book. “Turn the page.” We want to develop their oral language which will help them with reading. They will recognize the words more readily because they know them.

BF: How about the physical movement and handling of plastic letters? What actions can you take to utilize this?

MK: Handling plastic letters engages all the senses. If you’re holding the letter in your hand that’s what we call a kinesthetic process. Depending on the individual, some of us are auditory learners, some of us are visual learners, some of us are kinesthetic learners. That is more helpful. If you can engage all the senses at the same time that is optimal.

Holding those plastic letters we used to put on the fridge are the best things. Mom and dad can say; “I’m going to get the yogurt!” And spell yogurt on the fridge. Your turn. Can you spell yogurt? And have them imitate you. You want to build up their ability to imitate when they’re very young.

BF: These activities take time and sometimes it’s tough to spend the quality time to do this.

MK: Parents are so busy. Utilizing household routines is really key to fostering their language ability. So you can say to them; “Can you get out a bowl for mom? You know where the bowls are. Bowl starts with B. You get the bowl and I will get the spoon.”

Engaging them in household routines first gets the job done, increases their vocabulary and engages them so they’re not off doing something mischievous like throwing the Cheerios all over the floor. In their room keep lots of different colored baskets around. “Let’s throw the teddy bears into the brown basket… let’s put the trucks into the red basket. You’re teaching them colors, sorting, categorization and they’re engaged in the process of cleaning up.

BF: What’s the last and most important tip you can leave our readers with that would have a big impact on the early years of development?

MK: Focus time with your child. Put your phone down. Engage with your child for 15 minutes a day where you are not on your phone. It could be a game you play with them or activity. One on one uninterrupted non-electronic time. You’re letting your child know that they are important.

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

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Suburban Essex

March 2022

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Festival Events

Saturday, Saturday, April April 22 ~ ~ 7am-1pm 7am-1pm Cherry Blossom Challenge Cherry Blossom Challenge Bike Bike Race Race Oval, Northern Division Oval, Northern Division Sunday, Sunday, April April 33 ~ ~ 10am 10am Cherry Blossom 10k Cherry Blossom 10k Run Run Cherry Blossom Welcome Center, Cherry Blossom Welcome Center, Extension Extension Saturday, Saturday, April April 99 ~ ~ 10am 10am 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk Prudential Prudential Concert Concert Grove, Grove, Southern Southern Division Division Saturday, Saturday, April April 99 ~ ~ 11am-3pm 11am-3pm Essex County Family Essex County Family Day Day Prudential Concert Grove, Southern Prudential Concert Grove, Southern Division Division Sunday, Sunday, April April 10 10 ~ ~ 11am-5pm 11am-5pm Bloomfest!

Bloomfest!

Cherry Blossom Cherry Blossom Welcome Welcome Center, Center, Extension Extension

Visit Visit our our website website for for more more details and information details and information WWW. WWW. ESSEXCOUNTYNJ.ORG ESSEXCOUNTYNJ.ORG

PUTTING PUTTING ESSEX ESSEX COUNTY COUNTY FIRST FIRST

Cherry Blossom Festival You’re Invited to...

Essex Essex County County Branch Branch Brook Brook Park Park to to enjoy enjoy the the most most diverse collection of Cherry Blossom Trees, diverse collection of Cherry Blossom Trees, even even larger larger than than the the national national display display in in Washington, Washington, DC. DC. The blossoming trees create a picturesque The blossoming trees create a picturesque setting setting that that transforms transforms the the park park into into aa stunning stunning spring spring fantasyland.

We invite you and your fantasyland. We invite you and your family family to to come come out and experience this natural wonder. out and experience this natural wonder.

Joseph Joseph N. N. DiVincenzo, DiVincenzo, Jr. Jr. Essex County Essex County Executive Executive and and the the Board Board of of County County Commissioners Commissioners

Cherry Cherry Blossom Blossom Talks Talks

Wednesdays, Wednesdays, April April 6, 6, 13, 13, 20 20 & & 27 27 ~ ~ 11am 11am Cherry Blossom Welcome Center, Cherry Blossom Welcome Center, Extension Extension These These 30-minute 30-minute talks talks will will discuss discuss the the history history of Branch Brook Park and its signature of Branch Brook Park and its signature trees. trees.

No No reservations reservations needed. needed.

Celebrate Celebrate the the Historic Historic Collection Collection

Historic Historic Cell Cell Phone Phone Tours Tours Available ALL Available ALL Season Season This This free free self-guided self-guided historic historic walking walking tour tour can can be be accessed by cell phone or smart phone.

Spend accessed by cell phone or smart phone. Spend the the day day exploring exploring all all 72 72 tour tour stops stops or or pick pick and and choose choose your your favorites. favorites. One One phone phone call call unlocks unlocks aa world world of of park history and horticultural information. park history and horticultural information. !Ahora !Ahora ofrecida ofrecida en en espanol! espanol! 973.433.904 973.433.90477

Learn the Art of Fashion Design

TEENS Fashion Workshop

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In our Fashion Workshop, our experts will teach the art of making clothes and accessories. It is one of the most popular design specializations amongst teens who are looking for creative courses.

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