Vicinity Magazine

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M O R R I S

NOVEMBER 2025

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TABLE of CONTENTS NOVEMBER 2025

NOVEMBER 2025

VOL. 25 NO. 9

David J. Black FOUNDER & CEO

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In the Vicinity

25 Local Gift Guide

Cathleen M. Black PRESIDENT & COO

26 Focus on Education

Michael J. Reidy

26 How Parents Can Build a Love of Reading at Home 26 Nurturing Social-Emotional Skills at Home

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Local Heroes

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8 Healing Hearts Through Therapy 9 Champion for Change

20 COVER ARTICLE Staying on Trend

27 Empowering Unique Learners 27 Celebrating 105 Years of Excellence in Education

ART DIRECTOR

Vanice Gage Donegan BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Sue Baldani Barry Farber Janis Hashe Michelle Lemieux Christine Maxwell Jackie Schatell Melissa Radin

28 London Tour for Teens

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

29 HudsonWay Immersion School: The Power of Bilingual Learning

Amy Schwartz Donna Stanul REGIONAL SALES DIRECTORS

Dan Epstein SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER

Discover fashion in a place you will love

Mitchell Black Heidi Dommasch

31 Art in the Vicinity

Robert Leo Murray GUARDIAN ANGELS

Paula Stark: Echoing Home

32 Health and Wellness

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32 Navigating Stress, Anxiety, and Depression During the Holiday Season 33 The Artist in the O.R.: Dr. Scott Spiro Blends Medicine and Mastery in His New Podcast 35 Enjoy the Benefits of Massage Therapy at Providence Health and Fitness

36 Dining Guide On the Cover:

Trend by J&M Photo by Dan Epstein

4 | Vicinity Magazine | November 2025

38 Diamond Minds Attitude

CIRCULATION 32,000 U.S. POSTAL SERVICE MAILED TO SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES IN: Berkeley Heights, Chatham, Gillette, Green Village, Harding, Madison, Maplewood, Millburn, New Providence, New Vernon, Short Hills, South Orange, Stirling, Summit

NEXT ISSUE: Winter 2025

Advertising Deadline: 11/17/25 In-Homes: 12/04/25 Calendar submissions: calendar@VicinityMail.com Editorial submissions: editorial@VicinityMail.com Call for info: 973-276-1688 Vicinity Magazine 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 Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials.

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IN THE VICINITY

BY JACKIE SCHATELL

Rally for Tennis Raises Over $100,000 for Newark Youth

Pictured here are students from all of the schools that participated in the Rally for Tennis event, including Newark Academy, Millburn High School, Livingston High School, Montclair High School, West Essex High School, and James Caldwell High School.

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hat began as a shared love of tennis between two Short Hills teens has evolved into a force for change. Newark Academy varsity tennis captain Lily Schonbraun and Millburn High School varsity tennis player Avery Leibowitz, along with the Rally for Tennis (RFT) NJ leadership team, have helped lead an initiative that began

in 2021 to expand access to tennis and educational opportunities for underserved youth in the greater Newark area.

The RFT team, together with Avery and Lily serving as captains, hosted 150 children and their families from Newark for an evening of tennis clinics and more at their event at Centercourt. Together

Breaking Barriers on the Mat

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ourage is more than a mindset for Millburn High School junior Saanvi Saxena—it’s her mission.

A Life Scout in Troop 19 at St. Rose of Lima, she’s hosting free wrestling clinics for girls ages 11–14 as her Eagle Scout project, with sessions on Nov. 5 and Nov. 12 from 5–6 pm at MHS. Participants can attend either or both to learn beginner techniques and build confidence.

Newark Academy varsity tennis captain Lily Schonbraun (left) and Millburn High School varsity tennis player Avery Leibowitz (right) pose for a photo at the Rally for Tennis, which supported youth tennis and community engagement.

they raised over $100,000 for Greater Newark Tennis & Education (GNTE) - a nonprofit dedicated to kids reaching their potential.

Now in its fifth year, Rally for Tennis–NJ continues to prove how the power of sports and community can transform lives—on and off the court.

Meet the Teacher

Who Makes Learning a Rock Concert!

B Millburn High School varsity wrestler Saanvi Saxena (in blue) wrestles an opponent from Leonia/Palisades Park.

A varsity wrestler, Saanvi was inspired by women competing in the Olympics. What began as curiosity became a calling as she pushed past nerves, trained with mostly male teammates, and helped recruit other girls to join the team.

Her goal is to introduce more girls to wrestling and strengthen the high school program—proving that one girl’s determination can inspire a new generation of athletes and leaders.

To sign up for the clinic visit https://forms.gle/YcFQPoEbbjzy5qzVA or donate at https://gofund.me/b2e7e4f29 6 | Vicinity Magazine | November 2025

y day, Paul Fessock, better known as Mr. Socks, gets Summit Elementary students moving as their high-energy phys ed teacher. By night and on weekends, he turns up the volume as a DJ, guitarist, and frontman of the cover band Amp’d. With five daughters and boundless energy, Mr. Socks somehow still finds time to teach guitar lessons, run a party rental business, author of four children’s books on Amazon, and bring his “World of Rock” school assemblies to life.

Blending 80s rock classics with lessons in teamwork and socialemotional learning, his assemblies are part concert, part classroom, complete with student sing-alongs, dancing, and big smiles. His original kids’ music, books, and YouTube channel extend the fun at home, while his Spotify channel, Mr. Sock Rocks, keeps the beat going.

Whether he’s spinning tracks, strumming riffs, or leading kids in team-building songs, Mr. Socks proves that learning and life are always better with a little rock ‘n’ roll. Learn more at mrsocksworldofrock.com.

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Reimagining the Past, One Vintage Dress at a Time

n Maplewood, designer Christine Carlson is turning forgotten heirlooms into modern masterpieces.

A graduate of Parsons and a veteran of the bridal industry, she spent years watching exquisite fabrics and dead stock silks from designers like Oscar de la Renta and Carolina Herrera go to waste. Now she’s Christine Carlson in her home studio. (photo by Julia Maloof Verderosa) making sustainability stylish by reimagining vintage and special occasion dresses—many too small or fragile to wear—into timeless pieces that honor their history while fitting today’s bodies and values. She also creates new vintage-aesthetic silk Maybelle Collection gowns in modern sizes using her own patterns and sustainably sourced fabrics.

Each gown tells a story, stitched with natural materials and a commitment to ethical sourcing. Christine’s passion for thrifting, vintage aesthetics, and heirloom preservation infuses every creation, from rescued lace to restructured silk. What began as a personal response to fashion’s excess has become a movement that blends artistry, ethics, and nostalgia. Through her lens, beauty is never disposable—it’s reborn.

Follow her work on Instagram @maybellenyc.vintagebridal or learn more at maybellenyc.com.

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Dancing Toward Her Dreams

hen the music starts, 10-year-old Juliette Nabati of Millburn doesn’t just dance; she shines. An awardwinning performer who has danced at Turning Pointe Dance Center in Springfield since she was three, Juliette is now sharing her love of dance with the next generation.

Every weekend, she transforms her basement into a mini studio, teaching dance routines to girls ages 3 to 6.

Her classes, just $10 per one-hour session, blend warm-ups, fun choreography, lots of fun, and confidence-building movement. What began as a creative way to earn her own spending money has quickly become a joyful tradition for local families.

“I love teaching them because they’re so cute and they don’t know how to dance yet,” Juliette says. “It’s fun showing them what I’ve learned.”

With competitions ahead and big dreams on the horizon, Juliette’s not just dancing for herself; she’s inspiring little feet to find their rhythm too. To sign up, call her mom, Marlena, at 917-513-9473.

Pop Culture Meets the Kitchen Table

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t Kitchen Table in Maplewood, dinner isn’t just served—it’s streamed. From The Bear-inspired cooking nights to Taylor Swift album launch baking sessions, this local culinary studio is turning pop culture into a recipe for fun.

Adults can channel their inner Carmy while learning to make the show’s iconic beef sandwiches and chocolate cake, while kids whip up Taylor’s handwritten cookie recipes and friendship bracelet kebabs.

The creative lineup doesn’t stop there; recent classes have included a “Copycat Desserts” workshop where guests recreated Hostess cupcakes and PopTarts from scratch, a Matilda family book club featuring dishes straight from Roald Dahl’s pages, and a Demon K-Pop cooking night inspired by the popular anime and music craze, complete with colorful dishes and plenty of attitude.

Photo of a Hostess CupCake and Pop Tart created from scratch in the Copycat Dessert workshop that was held at Kitchen Table in Maplewood.

Photo of a Friendship Kebab from the Taylor Swift Release Event that was held at Kitchen Table in Maplewood.

Founded by professional chef Lila Lea, Kitchen Table blends culinary skills with storytelling and imagination. It’s where cooking meets creativity and where everyone, from Swifties to foodies, can find a seat at the table. Learn more: kitchentablemaplewood.com

If you or someone you know in Essex/Morris County is doing something interesting, send an email to Jackie.subessex@gmail.com November 2025 | MyVicinityMagazine.com | 7

LOCAL HEROES

Healing Hearts Through Therapy

BY JACKIE SCHATELL muscles, building coordination, and regaining confidence. Private rooms are available for speech sessions and parent consultations, ensuring families feel supported throughout their child’s journey.

In just its first year, TheraYouth delivered more than 3,100 therapy sessions, helping 172 children take significant steps toward better health and independence. Yet, with more than 300 children currently on the waiting list, the need continues to grow. Families are referred through word of mouth, local schools, and hospitals, drawn by the clinic’s reputation for providing care that feels both personal and transformative.

Speech therapist Stephanie Caputo works one-on-one with a young learner at the Arlene Shatsky Chasek TheraYouth Clinic in Elizabeth, helping build early language and communication skills through interactive play.

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For Dr. Irina Marcoff, DPT, physical therapy has always been about far more than physical movement—it’s about restoring hope. A doctor of physical therapy with decades of experience working in both public schools and private practice in New Providence, Dr. Marcoff saw firsthand how many children were being left behind.

Families unable to afford private therapy, children who didn’t meet strict school-based criteria, and those trapped in long waiting lists for government programs were all struggling to access the care they needed to thrive.

That reality inspired her to create something extraordinary: the Arlene Shatsky Chasek TheraYouth Clinic in Elizabeth, a nonprofit dedicated to providing holistic, one-to-one physical, occupational, and speech therapy for children in underserved communities.

Named in honor of a close supporter whose belief helped bring the vision to life, the clinic opened its doors in the summer of 2023 and has already made a powerful impact.

Inside the clinic’s bright, welcoming space, colorful mats and adaptive tools turn therapy into play. In every corner, children work individually with compassionate therapists—strengthening

8 | Vicinity Magazine | November 2025

Dr. Irina Marcoff, DPT, founder of the Arlene Shatsky Chasek TheraYouth Clinic in Elizabeth, works one-on-one with a young patient to build balance and confidence during a physical therapy session.

The results speak volumes. One child who arrived unable to lift his head was walking and speaking within months. Another, a six-year-old struggling with fine motor delays, now writes her name, cuts along lines, and completes complex obstacle courses with confidence.

Each success story represents countless hours of effort and love— proof of what’s possible when skilled professionals meet families who refuse to give up.

TheraYouth’s programs are funded entirely by donations, small business partnerships, and community-based fundraisers. Every dollar supports therapy sessions, equipment, and program growth for children who otherwise would go without care. The organization continues to seek grants, volunteers, and sponsors to help meet the growing demand.

At its core, TheraYouth is a story of compassion in action—one woman’s determination to ensure that every child, regardless of circumstance, can build strength, confidence, and independence for a brighter future.

For more information, to donate, or to get involved, visit therayouth.org or attend an upcoming fundraiser.

LOCAL HEROES

Champion for Change Sarah Lester Reimagines the Maplewood Library for a New Era

BY JACKIE SCHATELL, PHOTOS BY TRACY SHAM PHOTOGRAPHY.

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When the doors of the new Maplewood Memorial Library opened this July, more than 4,000 people poured inside, drawn by curiosity, pride, and a sense of homecoming. Among them stood Library Director Sarah Lester, the woman who spent more than a decade transforming Maplewood’s once-aging library into a vibrant 21st-century hub of learning, collaboration, and sustainability.

For Sarah, the journey was both professional and deeply personal. Born in Iran and raised in Washington, D.C. as the daughter of a U.S. State Department employee, she grew up understanding how access to information connects people and cultures. Inspired by her mother’s volunteer work as a library trustee, Sarah earned her graduate degree in library science and built a 30-year career that took her from the New York Public Library to San Francisco before coming to Maplewood—twice.

Her first stint at the Maplewood Library ended in 2009 when the mortgage crisis led to budget cuts and layoffs. But when the director position opened in 2011, she came back, determined to give her “reading town” the library it deserved. That vision began to crystallize after Hurricane Sandy, when Maplewood lost power but the library stayed lit. Residents flocked there to charge phones, work, and gather—an experience that revealed how vital the library was to the heart of the community.

Maplewood Mayor Nancy Adams; Library Board President Robert Marchman; Maplewood Library Director Sarah Lester; and Township Committee Member and Library Trustee Vic De Luca at a pre-opening reception of the new Maplewood Library.

Working hand in hand with then-Mayor Vic De Luca and a tireless group of board trustees, volunteers, and staff, Sarah started a decade-long campaign that culminated in a $24 million rebuild— New Jersey’s first LEED Gold-certified library. The project combined state, municipal, and private funding, including one of the largest state library grants ever awarded.

The result is a 32,000-square-foot beacon of innovation. There’s a spacious teen room filled after school, a 150-seat community room available to nonprofits (and other organizations for a fee), a hands-on maker space, quiet study rooms, a Maplewood History Room celebrating local stories (including the town’s Nancy Drew connection), and an outdoor reading deck overlooking Memorial Park.

Inside, every design element, from the book-shaped windows to the bird-friendly glass, reflects the values of openness and inclusion. As Sarah says, “This building represents who we are: open, forward-thinking, collaborative, and deeply rooted in community.”

Maplewood Library Director Sarah Lester and Robert Marchman cut the ribbon at the new library building surrounded by Maplewood Township Committee members and board trustees.

In an era when libraries face budget cuts and book bans, Maplewood’s investment stands as a bold statement of faith in knowledge, equity, and civic life. Thanks to Sarah Lester’s vision and perseverance, Maplewood now has not just a library but a living symbol of what a community can achieve when it reads, learns, and grows together.

November 2025 | MyVicinityMagazine.com | 9

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LOCAL BUZZ

Summit’s Santa Claus Shop Prepares To Help Deliver A Joyous Holiday To Locals In Need

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Chairwomen of Santa Clause Shop (l-r) Jessica Whitehorne, Hillary Reilly, Roseanne Wilson, Stephanie Phiebig, Kay Puthaaroon

For the 59th consecutive year, the Santa Claus Shop will open its doors to area families to provide complementary holiday shopping.

The Shop serves more than 400 low-income families and senior citizens from Summit, New Providence, Berkeley Heights and other local communities.

This year’s Santa Claus Shop will be held at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 587 Springfield Avenue in Summit. Families will be offered shopping hours by invitation only during the first week of December.

The Santa Claus Shop is chaired by Summit residents Stephanie Phiebig, Kay Puthaaroon, Hillary Reilly, Jessica Whitehorne and Roseanne Wilson and co-chaired by Jacquelyn Ford, Whitney Goldberg, Jennifer Jones, Tara Marshall and Mollie Siebert.

The Santa Claus Shop exists solely on donations and volunteers.

With the monetary donations from area residents, local organizations and businesses, the Santa Claus Shop can purchase the gifts that allow less fortunate neighbors to experience the joy of holiday giving without financial burden. Donations can be made online or checks can be made payable to SHIP, with Santa Claus Shop noted on the check’s memo line, and mailed to the Santa Claus Shop, P.O. Box 119, Summit, NJ 07902. www.summitsantaclausshop.com Facebook at Santa Claus Shop - Summit, NJ Instagram - @santa_claus_shop_summit.

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LOCAL BUZZ

Shop, Savor, and Celebrate the Season!

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Get into the holiday spirit at the Annual Holiday Bazaar & Silent Auction, hosted by the United Methodist Church in Green Village! Step into a winter wonderland of local charm, where the scent of homemade soups fills the air, laughter echoes through the halls, and tables overflow with festive finds and handcrafted treasures.

From unique gifts and décor to delightful “attic discoveries,” this event is the perfect way to kick off your holiday season. Browse the ever-popular silent auction, indulge in soups and sandwiches from the kitchen, and don’t miss the annual pre-order food sale—a community favorite featuring delicious, madewith-love dishes you can bring home to enjoy later.

Whether you’re shopping, bidding, or just soaking in the festive cheer, this beloved event is the heart of the season in Green Village.

Saturday, November 22, 9am-6pm United Methodist Church 500 Spring Valley Rd, Green Village

LOCAL BUZZ

Mystery, Mischief, and a Touch of Romance Await!

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Step into the intrigue of 1920s London as The Maplewood Strollers present Agatha Christie’s The Secret Adversary! This captivating stage production follows the daring duo Tommy and Tuppence on a whirlwind adventure filled with espionage, suspense, and clever twists only Christie could conceive.

Audiences will be transported to a world of shadowy secrets and sharp wit, where danger lurks around every corner—and charm and chemistry might just save the day. With its perfect blend of mystery, humor, and heart, The Secret Adversary is an evening of live theatre that’s as stylish as it is suspenseful.

Join the Strollers for this unforgettable performance that celebrates the golden age of detective storytelling—brought to life by one of Maplewood’s most beloved community theatre troupes.

Friday, November 7–Saturday, November 15 The Maplewood Strollers 10 Durand Rd, Maplewood For tickets visit: themaplewoodstrllers.org/ticketsales/p/basic-service-yr9fm (973) 761-8453 / TheMaplewoodStrollers@gmail.com

12 | Vicinity Magazine | November 2025

LOCAL BUZZ

Magic for the Entire Family

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Boutique Shopping with a Personal Touch.

A Unique Selection of Retro and New Looks in Clothing, Jewelry, and Accessories

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Champions of Magic’s all-new Holiday Spectacular features dazzling illusions, breathtaking grand-scale magic, and festive surprises for the whole family. This high-energy, interactive show blends their signature humor, jaw-dropping magic, and holiday cheer, creating a one-of-a-kind experience perfect for the season, filled with wonder, spectacle and joy!

Sunday, November 30, 4pm Mayo Performing Arts Center 100 South Street, Morristown 973-539-8008 mayoarts.org

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November 2025 | MyVicinityMagazine.com | 13

LOCAL BUZZ

The Polar Express™ Train Ride

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Enjoy a magical re-creation of the classic children’s story led by a cast of talented actors on board a real train.

Have your golden tickets ready for the Conductor!

Passengers are served hot chocolate and Walker’s Shortbread by dancing chefs, enjoy a reading of the classic book by Chris Van Allsburg, and receive the first gift of Christmas—a silver sleigh bell—after Santa boards the train to greet families.

Performers engage passengers in caroling and fun holiday activities on the heartwarming trip back to the station.

Through December 30, departure time determined at time of ticket purchase Friday, December 5–Sensory Friendly Train, 11:10am & 1:10pm Saturday, December 6–ASL Interpretation, 7:25pm Whippany Railroad Station whippanythepolarexpressride.com

SCHEDULE YOURS TODAY!

LOCAL BUZZ

40th Annual Giralda Farms Run for a Cause

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Registration for the 40th Giralda Farms Run is open. There will be a 5K, 10K, Combo 10K and 5K Race, and a Kids Fun Run. This classic race in and around the beautiful Giralda Farms Corporate Park, will raise money for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Coastal and Northern New Jersey (BBBSCNNJ), which makes a positive difference in the lives of local children through professionally supported, one-to-one mentoring relationships with adult volunteers. The mentoring programs provided by BBBSCNNJ empower youth to achieve their greatest potential as they grow to become confident, competent, and caring individuals.

Sunday, November 10 3 Giralda Farms, Madison 7:30am—Registration and Check-In; 8:30am—Kids Fun Run; 9am—10K race; 11am—5K race runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Madison/GiraldaFarmsRuns Learn about BBSCNNJ at Mentoring.org

14 | Vicinity Magazine | November 2025

LOCAL BUZZ

Run Now, Feast Later!

Chatham’s Favorite Thanksgiving Tradition Returns

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Start your Thanksgiving morning with heart and hustle at the 17th Annual Chatham Turkey Trot! Before the parade and pumpkin pie, join hundreds of neighbors and friends for a joyful morning filled with movement, music, and community spirit.

Choose between a 1-Mile Family Fun Run or a 5K race through Chatham’s scenic streets,

which are perfect for every age and fitness level. Whether you’re racing for a personal best or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, this hometown favorite is all about coming together for a good cause.

Proceeds support vital local organizations that keep the community safe and strong.

It’s a feel-good way to kick off the holiday,

full of running, laughing, and giving back before gathering around the table.

Thursday, November 27, 8:30am Highlands section of Chatham thechathamturkeytrot.org / TheChathamTurkeyTrot@gmail.com To register visit: findarace.com/us/events/ the-chatham-turkey-trot

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LOCAL BUZZ

Run, Walk, and Give Thanks— South Orange Style!

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Kick off your Thanksgiving morning with energy, gratitude, and community spirit at the D&I Fitness Annual Turkey Trot! Whether you’re racing the 5K or strolling the 2-mile loop, this fun-filled event is all about celebrating health, happiness, and giving back.

Families, friends, and fitness fans alike gather each year outside D&I Fitness in downtown South Orange to start the holiday on a high note. The route is scenic, the atmosphere is electric, and the cause is heartfelt—proceeds benefit MEND, a local nonprofit that supports food pantries and provides nutritious meals to neighbors in need.

Participants are also encouraged to bring peanut butter or canned tuna to help stock community shelves this season of giving.

It’s the perfect way to get your heart pumping, your spirits lifted, and your appetite ready for that Thanksgiving feast!

Thursday, November 27, 8am D&I Fitness 9 W. South Orange Ave, South Orange To register visit: /findarace.com/us/events/d-i-fitness-annual-turkey-trot

LOCAL BUZZ

Let It Go and Feel the Magic

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Live on Stage!

This holiday season, experience Disney’s Frozen like never before—brought to life in a dazzling stage production that captures the wonder, humor, and heart of the beloved story. Follow sisters Elsa and Anna as they journey through a world of ice and imagination, discovering courage, sisterhood, and the true meaning of love along the way.

Featuring show-stopping songs, breathtaking sets, and stunning performances, Frozen will melt hearts of every age. Audiences will be swept away by its powerful message of selfacceptance and bravery—reminding us all that sometimes, the most magical power of all is staying true to who we are.

Special Features: • Q&A with the Cast: Saturday, December 20, after the matinee • Audio-Described Performances: 1:30pm on Sunday, December 21 and Saturday, December 27 • Open-Captioned & ASLInterpreted Performances: Saturday, December 27 at 1:30pm and Sunday, December 28 at 7pm Perfect for children ages 4 and up and theater lovers alike, this enchanting production promises laughter, tears, and plenty of sparkle.

Wednesday, November 26, 2025 – Sunday, January 11, 2026 Paper Mill Playhouse 22 Brookside Drive, Millburn | 973-376-4343 | papermill.org/frozen/ 16 | Vicinity Magazine | November 2025

LOCAL BUZZ LOCAL BUZZ

45th Scandinavian Food & Gift Sale

DONATE & SUPPORT

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The event will feature Scandinavian Christmas decorations, Norwegian Sweaters, Tomtar, candles, linens, housewares, imported foods and baked goods. Light Scandinavian refreshments will be served starting at 11am.

Lodge meetings are held the 3rd Friday of the month at Faith Lutheran Church, 524 South St., New Providence.

FREE ADMISSION, Handicapped accessible, CASH & CHECKS ONLY. The event is sponsored by Lodge Linne #429, Vasa Order of America.

JESPY House is a nonprofit organization that enables adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) to achieve their full potential and lead independent lives. Our philosophy promotes choice, self-direction and independent community living for our clients.

Your donation will help JESPY clients access valuable resources, whether it be clinical services, residential support, athletic and enrichment programs, employment training, tools for healthy living and more—all of which have a profound impact on their lives!

Saturday, November 22, 10am-3pm Salt Brook School 40 Maple Street, New Providence

Award-winning Chorus to Perform at Drew University

UPCOMING EVENTS South Orange Downtown Fashion Show

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Hickory Tree Chorus, one of the top five small Sweet Adelines choruses in the world, will be singing Broadway, Beatles, and more, all in ringing four-part harmony in Thank You for the Music. Special guests include the Princeton Nassoons and Mendham High School’s Treble Makers in this celebration in song, highlighting the power of community and the beauty of choral performance.

As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, Hickory Tree Chorus relies on the support of its community to continue sharing the joy of music through live performances and education. We encourage all music enthusiasts to join us for this extraordinary event and share in our passion for the art of choral singing.

Saturday, November 15, 2pm Drew University’s Concert Hall, Madison (located in the Dorothy Young Center for the Arts) To reserve seats visit: hickorytreechorus.org

Thursday, October 9, 2025, 6-8pm featuring JESPY models. The event will take place in Spiotta Park, 20-32 Village Plaza, South Orange.

JESPY Trivia Night

Sunday, November 9, 2025, 5-8pm at Felina Steak House, 101 South Orange Avenue, South Orange. The event is $40 per person.

Visit jespyhouse.org to register.

973-762-6909 6 South Orange Avenue, Suite 205, South Orange, NJ 07079 jespyhouse.org November 2025 | MyVicinityMagazine.com | 17

LOCAL BUZZ

Jersey Nutcracker

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Nimbus’ Jersey Nutcracker delights audiences young and old with a quirky and lovable story of two Jersey kids and their city adventure, filled with magic, battles with bullies and rats, stories of friendship, and exquisite dancing. Set to Tchaikovsky’s beloved score, Nimbus’ adaptation of The Nutcracker offers a thrilling, jazzy interpretation with a New Jersey twist.

Nimbus Dance performs Artistic Director Samuel Pott’s choreography against a dazzling backdrop of full-scale sets and animated projections of illustrated scenes, designed by Jersey City artists Laia Carbrera and Isabelle Duverger. With a delightful libretto co-written by Alysia Souder (The Institute for Music for Children) and Samuel Pott (Nimbus Artistic Director).

Jersey Nutcracker transports audiences through classic New Jersey landscapes – parks, bustling streets, back alleys, sewers, and back to City Hall, with surprises, cheer, and a message of hope and resilience along the way.

Saturday December 6, 1pm and 6pm Keans Stage, Wilkins Theatre 1000 Morris Avenue, Union 908-737-7469 / ticket@kean.edu

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LOCAL BUZZ

Giants of Jazz Concert

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South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC )is pleased to announce that the 2025 annual Giants of Jazz concert will honor the incomparable Paquito D’Rivera. One of the greatest living musicians, Paquito’s long and distinguished career spans both the worlds of jazz and classical music.

On November 16, 2006, SOPAC presented its inaugural performance, entitled “The Music of Two Worlds.” Produced by John Lee, this first concert featured Paquito D’Rivera, Yo-Yo Ma, Brenda Feliciano and the Imani Winds. In honor of SOPAC’s 20th Anniversary Season, join us as we celebrate the career of the man who so generously graced our stage from the beginning.

Produced by Grammy Award-winning producer and bass player, South Orange resident John Lee, Giants of Jazz delights audiences of every generation.

Saturday, November 29, 7:30pm South Orange Performing Arts Center One SOPAC Way, South Orange | 973-313-2787 For tickets: www.sopacnow.org

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November 2025 | MyVicinityMagazine.com | 19

Staying on Trend Discover fashion in a place you will love

Michele and Jean Marie

BY SUE BALDANI, PHOTOS BY DAN EPSTEIN

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LONG-TIME FRIENDS MICHELE AND JEAN MARIE OF SUMMIT, WHO MET WHEN THEIR KIDS PLAYED TOWN SPORTS TOGETHER, HAVE ALWAYS HAD A PASSION FOR FASHION AND SHOPPING. RECENT EMPTY NESTERS, THEY WERE LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING THEIR DREAM OF BECOMING BOUTIQUE OWNERS COME TO LIFE. THEY KNEW THEIR VARIED BACKGROUNDS WOULD SERVE THEM WELL IN THIS NEW VENTURE.

In May of 2024, they opened Trend by J&M, a women’s clothing, home, and gift boutique catering to women of various ages and budgets.

“Friends, moms, and daughters can come in and shop together,” says Michele.

It’s a beautiful, welcoming place to connect with friends and neighbors. “It’s bright with lots of color, and we always have cheery music playing,” she says. “Friends meet each other in the store, and it always has a very helpful, upbeat, and happy vibe.”

Women can purchase everyday and special occasion outfits, complete with shoes, handbags, jewelry, and other accessories, and Michele is always on hand to help coordinate the pieces.

“Many of our customers dread going to the mall since there’s no help available,” she says. “They also don’t always have an exact idea of what they want, so they come to us because we spend time with them. We take the time to style them according to their needs and the events that they’re attending.”

November 2025 | MyVicinityMagazine.com | 21

It’s bright with lots of color, and we always have cheery music playing. Friends meet each other in the store, and it always has a very helpful, upbeat, and happy vibe.

– MICHELE As the store name suggests, the duo always stays on top of trends. They personally do all the purchasing to ensure the merchandising is perfect for their clientele. For fall, suede, dark denim, and rich colors like chocolate and wine are very big.

“We’re already buying for the spring, so we have to be forwardlooking but in the present at the same time,” says Jean Marie. They know their customers well and listen to what they want. “We’re constantly learning and evolving.”

In addition to clothing, Trend by J&M offers a variety of home items and gifts. Coffee mugs, wine glasses, and trinket dishes, to name a few, that reflect funny sayings are go-to gifts. “You can often hear women giggling with each other as they’re reading them out loud,” says Michele.

Sandy, Social Media Manager 22 | Vicinity Magazine | November 2025

Allison, Store Manager

The Trend by J&M Team Trend by J&M also loves hosting store events such as trunk shows, birthday shopping parties, mahjong events, and Botox and Bubbles. They also believe in partnering with other local businesses. “In November, we’re collaborating with our neighbor, The Bar Method, and doing a Girls Night Out with a sweater knitting event by @knitnames.”

This collaboration is nice for customers, too. “This is a great community, a destination town, where people who shop here also work, work out, have coffee, and dine here,” says Michele. “By joining together, we help support each other.”

Since opening last spring, the boutique has developed a steady customer base while always welcoming newcomers. The two friends are thankful for the tireless team that works every day and treats the boutique like their own, as well as the love and support of their husbands and children, without whom none of this would have been possible.

Stop in soon, meet Michele and Jean Marie, and enjoy a unique shopping experience. Or, shop online. On November 1, they launched their new website. Use coupon code VICINITY11 and receive 20% off your first order.

“We wish everyone a very happy holiday season!”

This is a great community, a destination town, where people who shop here also work, work out, have coffee, and dine here.

– MICHELE

Trend by J&M 352 Springfield Avenue Summit, NJ 07901 972-634-0080 TrendByJM.com November 2025 | MyVicinityMagazine.com | 23

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Smith & Company

343 Bloomfield Avenue, Caldwell 973-228-1167 Facebook & Instagram @SmithCoGifts

Looking for the perfect gift? Lavender and Sage is an inviting space filled with curated handbags, beautiful jewelry, home goods, and meaningful gifts. This season’s favorites include Italian suede bags—stylish and versatile—and jewelry by FREIDA ROTHMAN, combining everyday elegance with a celebration of feminine strength, resilience, and heritage.

Lavender and Sage Boutique 426 Springfield Ave, Summit 908-248-2662 www.lavenderandsageshop.com Follow us on Instagram & Facebook @lavenderandsageboutique

Jellycat Amusable Letter to Santa Plush…

The classic wish list for Santa Claus is reborn as a plush design from Londonbased Jellycat. It’s a delightful addition to your holiday traditions. Send sweet wishes with the Amuseables Letter to Santa festive, fun & full of holiday cheer!

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November 2025 | MyVicinityMagazine.com | 25

FOCUS ON EDUCATION

How Parents Can Build a Love of Reading at Home

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When children see reading as something joyful—not just homework—it opens up a lifelong love of learning. Parents play a key role in creating that spark, and it doesn’t take hours of study or expensive books—just consistency, enthusiasm, and a little imagination.

Start by making reading part of your family’s daily rhythm.

Setting aside just 15 to 20 minutes each evening for quiet reading time can make a big difference. When kids see their parents enjoying a book or magazine, they naturally learn that reading is valuable and fun.

Encourage children to choose their own books. Whether it’s comics, mysteries, or nature guides, they’re far more likely to engage when they’re genuinely interested in the topic. Visiting local libraries or neighborhood bookshops together is a great way to let them explore freely.

Bring stories to life whenever possible—act out scenes, use silly voices, or turn a favorite book into a simple family play.

Interactive reading strengthens comprehension and makes the experience memorable. You can also connect stories to real life: if your child reads about animals, plan a trip to the zoo or a nature center; if they’re fascinated by space, watch a NASA livestream or visit a planetarium.

Finally, celebrate progress. Create a family reading chart or host a mini “book club” night where everyone shares what they’re reading. Recognition—no matter how small—builds confidence and motivation. With a little creativity and shared enthusiasm, reading becomes not just a skill, but a source of imagination, connection, and joy.

Nurturing Social-Emotional Skills at Home

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Social-emotional learning, or SEL, extends well beyond the classroom. It’s about helping children understand their emotions, develop empathy for others, and build healthy relationships—skills that shape not only how they learn but how they live. At home, parents can play a powerful role in reinforcing these lessons through small, consistent habits that strengthen emotional awareness and communication.

One of the simplest ways to begin is through open conversations. Encourage children to talk about their feelings—both big and small—without fear of judgment.

Questions like, “What made you smile today?” or “What was something that felt hard?” help kids express themselves and feel validated. Modeling calm and thoughtful responses during stressful moments teaches them how to handle frustration or disappointment productively.

Mindfulness can also be a valuable tool.

Short breathing exercises, guided meditations, or even a quiet moment

26 | Vicinity Magazine | November 2025

before dinner help children pause and connect with their emotions. Families can make mindfulness fun through movement, such as stretching together or taking slow walks to notice sounds, smells, and colors around them.

Another way to promote SEL at home is by fostering empathy through community engagement. Volunteering as a family, making cards for neighbors, or helping care for a pet can teach responsibility and compassion. Encouraging teamwork in household tasks also strengthens cooperation and respect.

Finally, celebrate small victories— whether it’s resolving a sibling conflict peacefully or showing kindness to a friend. These moments build confidence and reinforce that emotional growth is just as important as academic success.

Over time, children who feel understood and supported at home develop stronger relationships, greater self-control, and a more profound sense of belonging in every part of their lives.

FOCUS ON EDUCATION

Empowering Unique Learners

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The Winston School of Short Hills provides a personalized learning experience for students with learning differences through research-based, multisensory instruction tailored to each student’s learning style and pace. The Winston Way® is grounded in the Orton-Gillingham approach. Our teaching is systematic, sequential, explicit, and direct, delivered in small, structured groups to maximize engagement and effectiveness.

Our expert faculty use innovative, cross-curricular strategies to meet students where they are, ensuring meaningful growth across subjects. Lessons are thoughtfully designed to build skills, boost confidence, and unlock each child’s full potential.

At Winston, we believe that students grow into confident, engaged learners through the power of a strong home and school collaboration. Winston’s supportive environment empowers students with dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, ADHD, processing and executive functioning disorders, to meet challenges with independence and optimism. A Winston journey extends beyond the classroom, transforming not only our students' lives but also those of their families.

Winston School of Short Hills 30 East Lane, Short Hills | 973-379-4114 | winstonschool.org

FOCUS ON EDUCATION

Celebrating 105 Years of Excellence in Education

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For more than a century, Lacordaire Academy in Upper Montclair has provided a nurturing, faith-based environment where students grow in knowledge, character, and confidence.

This independent PK–12 Dominican Catholic day school offers a co-educational Pre-K through 8th Grade program and an AllGirls Upper School for Grades 9–12.

Younger students benefit from personalized curriculum enrichment, French instruction by native speakers, awardwinning public speaking programs, and the Big & Little Sibling mentorship experience that builds community and connection.

The Upper School empowers young women through a leadership-focused college prep program emphasizing courage, character, and academic excellence. Highlights include a mandatory Junior Internship program, an advanced STEM Academy, international travel opportunities, and exceptional college counseling that helps graduates gain admission to top universities.

Lacordaire Academy 155 Lorraine Avenue, Upper Montcair 973-744-1156 | https://lacordaireacademy.com

Learning in 2 languages develops:

Advanced cognitive skills Advanced bi-literacy in Spanish/English or Mandarin/English A global perspective, empathy & emotional intelligence

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www.hwis.org/bb-nJ November 2025 | MyVicinityMagazine.com | 27

FOCUS ON EDUCATION

London Tour for Teens

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Get ready for an unforgettable adventure across London with The Bee’s Knees tour designed especially for kids! Participants will stay at either the Astor Hyde Park Youth Hostel or the Astor Victoria Hostel—both centrally located in Westminster and South Kensington.

Each day brings new discoveries, from iconic landmarks to local favorites. Explore the heart of the city, including the Tower of London, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the London Eye. Wander through lively neighborhoods like Soho, Chelsea, the South Bank, and Brick Lane, where history and culture come to life around every corner.

Afternoons feature quintessential London experiences such as teatime, visits to Trafalgar Square, and the bright lights of Piccadilly Circus. This one-of-a-kind tour combines education, excitement, and fun— offering teens a true taste of London’s charm and energy.

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28 | Vicinity Magazine | November 2025

FOCUS ON EDUCATION

HUDSONWAY IMMERSION SCHOOL

The Power of Bilingual Learning

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HudsonWay Immersion School (HWIS), a premier preschool–Grade 8 Mandarin and Spanish immersion school, offers children a transformative educational experience. Students at HWIS learn the same rigorous academic content taught in top independent and public schools— but in two languages: English and either Mandarin or Spanish.

Through small class sizes, academic rigor, and full language immersion, HWIS students consistently outperform monolingual peers on standardized tests while achieving high levels of bilingual

proficiency. The school’s curriculum fosters critical thinking, creativity, and cultural understanding, helping students develop strong executive function and cognitive skills.

HWIS offers entry points for new students without prior language experience in the elementary years and at the start of middle school. These students follow an accelerated language track with personalized support, becoming bilingual within one to two years—an ideal fit for gifted and motivated learners.

Graduates of HWIS’s middle school program frequently achieve top scores on AP language exams and earn the prestigious Global Seal of Biliteracy.

Impressively, about 90% of 8th-grade graduates are accepted to their firstchoice independent schools.

In addition to its day school program, HWIS offers bilingual summer camps, after-school enrichment, and Bilingual

LONDON TOUR FOR TEENS

Buds playgroups for children as young as 12 months. Bus transportation from select neighborhoods and need-based financial aid are available.

Families are invited to attend an open house or schedule a private tour to see how HudsonWay Immersion School empowers students to think, learn, and thrive in two languages.

HudsonWay Immersion School 249 Bebout Avenue, Stirling 908-5980-8088 www.hwis.org

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November 2025 | MyVicinityMagazine.com | 29

ART IN OFTHE ESSEX VICINITY

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Growing up in very rural West Boylston, Massachusetts the landscape was very different than what Montclair resident Paula Stark now sees on a regular basis.

Always interested in Art, as a child she would find solace in a field, drawing while surrounded by the company of sheep and cows. And while she had an aunt in Boston who had studied with the renown painter Hans Hoffman, who sometimes was able to mentor her, there wasn’t much of an Art community in her rural world.

Paula Stark

PAULA STARK

Echoing Home STORY & PORTRAIT BY DAN EPSTEIN

30 | Vicinity Magazine | November 2025

But as it sometimes does, the interest wins out, and Stark earned a BFA from the University of New Hampshire, and then an MFA from Parsons School of Design in New York City. Spending time in New York making Art, she was part of the Prince Street Gallery, and maintained a studio in TriBeCa. Eventually finding a home in Montclair in 2015, she took studio space at Manufacturers Village, 356 Glenwood Ave, East Orange, where many local artists maintain studio spaces.

In Storm Coming, a 20x24 painted paper collage made in 2023 we see a Martha’s Vineyard landscape. Stark says: “I’m intrigued by the light, especially before a storm”. And you see just that here. Her method is to paint sheets of paper, and then cut the shapes she needs from the

Pink Sky

large page. She says that she sees landscapes as color blocks in relation to one another and cuts the color shapes almost like puzzle pieces.

We are fascinated by how she uses these blocks of painted color paper to capture the colors of the island off the coast of Cape Cod. Pink Sky, a 12x24 painted paper collage completed in 2024 is an image made from a photograph she made in Pennsylvania on one of her regular drives to North Carolina to visit family. Another rural scene, she says they: “click to a peace of mind, evocative of my childhood”. She’s drawn she says: “to a simple color palate”. We’re drawn to this beautiful work which reminds us of our own peaceful drives through a similar landscape.

Last Light

Looking at Last Light, we see Stark with a bolder use of her color palate and love how the yellow barn stands out. This 14x11 painted paper collage from 2024 also captures the rural Pennsylvania countryside again harkening to the rural life in which Stark grew up. Also from a photograph made traveling to North Carolina it’s a very different light effect and time of day.

You can see more of her very original approach using hand-painted paper cut into different shapes, as well as her work in several other media on her website. Pay close attention to her paintings which stop us in our tracks, as we remember our own trips to the rural countryside. www.paulastark.com Storm Coming

November 2025 | MyVicinityMagazine.com | 31

Holiday Season Coming Up?

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Don’t Let Stress Weaken Your Immune System!

The holidays are full of joy - but also stress, travel, and long to-do lists. All of that can take a toll on your immune system, leaving you run-down just when you want to feel your best.

Manual Lymph Drainage Massage (MLD) is a gentle, therapeutic technique that: • Stimulates your lymphatic system • Promotes detoxification • Boosts immunity naturally • Reduces stress and inflammation

Massage is POWERFUL! It’s not an indulgence.

It’s not a treat.

It’s an essential part of your overall well-being!

Book your Manual Lymph Drainage or Massage today!

Providence Health and Fitness 18 South Street, 2nd Floor, New Providence 908-898-0008 providencehealthandfitness.com

NAVIGATING STRESS, ANXIETY, AND DEPRESSION DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON

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The holiday season, often seen as joyful, can ironically bring stress, anxiety, and depression for many. Recognizing these challenges is essential for managing them. Below are common triggers for these feelings.

Financial Pressure: The expectation to buy gifts, host parties, and travel can strain budgets, leading to guilt or anxiety.

Family Dynamics: Gatherings may heighten feelings of inadequacy, especially for those experiencing loneliness or complicated relationships.

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Loss: For those grieving, holidays can evoke painful memories, making joy feel distant.

Busy Schedules: The rush of preparations can lead to stress and burnout.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Shorter days and less sunlight may exacerbate depressive symptoms.

Recognizing signs of stress is the first step to managing them.

Set realistic expectations and prioritize quality time with loved ones. Budget wisely, considering handmade gifts or experiences.

Practice self-care—make time for exercise, meditation, or quiet moments. Stay connected with supportive friends or family and limit social media use to reduce comparisons.

If feelings of anxiety or depression are overwhelming, consider reaching out to a mental health professional for support and coping strategies.

Discovery Psychotherapy and Wellness Center 7 E Frederick Place, Ste. 700 Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927 973-796-3760 / discoverypsychotherapycenter.com

32 | Vicinity Magazine | November 2025

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

The Artist in the O.R.: Dr. Scott Spiro Blends Medicine and Mastery in His New Podcast

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BY JACKIE SCHATELL, PHOTO BY DAN EPSTEIN

This fall, acclaimed plastic surgeon Dr. Scott A. Spiro, MD, FACS, is stepping out of the operating room to go behind the microphone with his new podcast, The Artist in the O.R. The title is more than a clever play on words; it’s a window into how Dr. Spiro views his life’s work: as both science and art.

For nearly 30 years, Dr. Spiro has built a sterling reputation as a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in cosmetic breast surgery, body contouring, facial aesthetics, and breast cancer reconstruction. Additionally, when he’s not in surgery, he’s painting, sculpting, or designing. His numerous oil paintings and drawings adorn the walls of his newly renovated office, a sleek black, white, and gold environment he personally designed down to virtually every architectural detail. The renovation is more than aesthetic; it has added exam rooms and treatment rooms, and optimizes the space so that his team can care for more patients while delivering a luxurious, high-end experience that mirrors his commitment to excellence. This has allowed Dr. Spiro to add additional providers to perform the latest in laser technology, injectables, and skincare.

Previously featured numerous times on E Health Radio, whose episodes are available on his website, Dr. Spiro is now taking the mic on his own platform. Through The Artist in the O.R., he invites listeners into both worlds of art and medicine with weekly video and audio episodes. There will be candid conversations with patients about their transformative journeys (particularly in the facelift recovery journey), and deep dives into anatomy and surgical artistry, with expert insights from his team on injectables, lasers, and more. Listeners will also get behindthe-scenes perspectives on the creative process, from creating art in the studio to achieving balance and beauty in surgery.

“I wanted to create something real and down to earth,” Dr. Spiro says. “There’s so much misinformation out there. This podcast is about the truth, the art, and the science behind what we do.”

Launching this November, The Artist in the O.R. will be available on all major podcast platforms, offering listeners a front-row seat to the artistry, precision, and passion that define Dr. Spiro’s career.

Spiro Plastic Surgery 101 Old Short Hills Road, Suite 510, West Orange, NJ 07052 973-736-5907 / drspiro.com November 2025 | MyVicinityMagazine.com | 33

TRANSFORM YOUR SMILE with the Best in New Jersey!

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HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Enjoy the Benefits of Massage Therapy at Providence Health and Fitness!

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Therapeutic massage is known for helping to relax the body, clear the mind, decrease stress, and even make one look younger by breaking up tight areas. What some may not realize is that research shows massage can be highly effective for chronic pain as well.

Massage therapy has a long history of being used as a medical treatment, with Hippocrates including it in the treatment protocols for the top 800 diseases of Ancient Greece. Massage alkalizes the bloodstream, increases circulation, and can be effective against diseases that proliferate in an acidic blood condition.

Many individuals have attributed their longevity to regular massages. Bob Hope, George Burns, Rose Kennedy, and even the Queen have all touted the benefits they’ve received from deep tissue

massages. This advanced style of medical massage, often performed by experienced licensed therapists at an instructor level, includes trigger point therapy, lymphatic drainage (MLD), myofascial stretching, and hot steam packs to effectively address various soft tissue complaints, including lower back pain, neck and shoulder complaints, and interscapular knots/ knots underneath shoulder blades.

For those seeking this advanced style of massage, Providence Health and Fitness offers medical massage, as well as Swedish, Deep Tissue, Manual Lymph Drainage, and Pregnancy massages.

Our team of licensed massage therapists have been effectively treating soft tissue conditions for decades. Whether you’re an athlete, weekend warrior, or someone struggling with soft tissue pain, massage can significantly improve day-to-day life.

Why not feel better today?

Call today 908-898-0008 or text 973-6995255 and schedule your appointment today. With the holidays coming up there is no better time than now to take care of yourself.

Providence Health and Fitness 18 South Street, 2nd floor, New Providence, NJ 07974 908-898-0008 providencehealthandfitness.com

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Anxiety? Abuse? Grief? Depression? Work-related stress? A history of mood problems? A child with learning disorders or behavior problems?

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www.DiscoveryPsychCenter.com November 2025 | MyVicinityMagazine.com | 35

DINING GUIDE It is recommended to call in advance as reservations may be required.

BERKELEY HEIGHTS Ami Sushi & Bar 538 Springfield Ave, Berkeley Heights 908-898-1188 | www.amisushinj.com Japanese restaurant featuring a wide selection of sushi, rolls, and other Japanese favorites.

Proud Thai Cookery 645 Springfield Ave, Berkeley Heights 908-665-0055 | www.proudthainj.com Authentic Thai cuisine

Trap Rock Restaurant & Brewery 279 Springfield Ave, Berkeley Heights 908-665-1755 | www.traprockrestaurant.net A microbrewery offering seasonal craft brews & a delicate menu that accentuates a southern flare.

CHATHAM Charley’s Aunt Restaurant 8-10 S Passaic Ave, Chatham | 973-635-6772 www.charleysauntchatham.com Traditional American cuisine.

Gregorio’s Mediterranean Restaurant 255A Main Street, Chatham | 973-635-2777 www.restaurantgregorios.com Italian Mediterranean cuisine bursting with flavor.

Mitsuba Japanese Cuisine

Krust Kitchen 7 Cross St, Madison | 908-525-7878 www.krustkitchen.com Pizza place · Italian Restaurant · Dessert Shop

MAPLEWOOD Artie’s 15 Newark Way, Maplewood | 973-378-5800 www.artiesnj.com Destination featuring a bread bakery, plus a wood-fired pizzeria, wine & cocktails.

Luna Stella 5 Highland Pl, Maplewood | 973-761-7600 www.restaurantlunastella.com New American with an emphasis on creativity, fresh ingredients, and inventive cocktails.

Ms. Lin Chinese Cuisine 59 Main St, Millburn | 973-912-8838 www.MsLinMillburn.com Ms. Lin Chinese provides convenient take-out and delivery for lunch and dinner and specializes in off-premise catering.

Osteria LK 180 Maplewood Avenue, Maplewood 973-327-2871 Elevated Italian cuisine

MILLBURN La Pergola 120 Essex Street, Millburn | 973-376-6838 www.lapergolanj.com La Pergola has curated a delightful outdoor garden dining experience, as well as a signature indoor dining space. So, whether you prefer to dine surrounded by the lush, flower-filled beauty of nature, or in the candlelit elegance of our chic interior, we look forward to serving you the region’s best Northern Italian cuisine in style!

237 Main St, Chatham | 973-635-3888 www.MitsubaChatham.com Traditional Japanese specialties and cuisine

Umi Sushi 339 Millburn Ave, Millburn | 973-921-2848 www.MillburnUmi.com Traditional and Fusion sushi and sashimi. Also find teriyaki, tempura, udon and soba noodle dinners. Most fish is wild-caught. Free delivery.

NEW PROVIDENCE Moe’s Bistro and Bar 535 Central Ave, New Providence 908-840-4540 | moesbistrobar.com Located inside the Best Western Plus & Murray Hill Hotel and Suites, Full and varied menu with a Mediterranean flare. Full bar & live entertainment.

Scalini Fedeli 63 Main Street, Chatham | 973-701-9200 www.scalinifedeli.com French-influenced Italian fixed-price menus in an elegant, vaulted interior with Tuscan touches.

Providence Bar & Kitchen 1288 Springfield Avenue Italian-inspired cuisine

GILLETTE

SHORT HILLS

Vintage Tavern

Boxcar Bar & Grill

342 Valley Rd, Gillette | 908-580-1100 www.VintageTavern.com New American tavern with pub-grub standards, including burgers, thin-crust pizzas and more.

Your go-to spot for sports, live entertainment, trivia, bingo, private parties & much more!

25 Chatham Rd, Short Hills | 973-912-0002 www.boxcarbar.com Bar fare

Par 440 Restaurant & Lounge

MADISON Bottle Hill Tavern 13 Waverly Place,, Madison | 973-949-6060 www.thebottlehilltavern.com Tavern Fare—Comfort Flare

Grillera Mediterranean Cuisine 91 Park Ave, Madison | 973-301-2080 www.grillera.com Distinguished Mediterranean Cuisine

36 | Vicinity Magazine | November 2025

Liv Breads 184 Essex Street, Millburn 973-218-6922 | livbreads.com Artisan bakery & coffee bar

440 Parsonage Hill Road, Short Hills | 973-467-8882 www.par440.com A full service restaurant, bar & lounge located on the East Orange Golf Course in Short Hills.

Offering bar bites, burgers and tasty entrees.

STIRLING Trattoria Biagio 239 Main Avenue, Stirling | 908-350-8064 Authentic Italian cuisine

Twelve Islands Greek Taverna

Tonydoms

1255 Valley Rd, Stirling | 908-647-2193 12islandsgreektaverna.com Traditional Greek fare

529 Morris Avenue, Summit | 908-472-0187 www.tonydoms.com Bone-in fried chicken, chicken tenders, sandwiches, biscuit sandwiches, wraps, bone-in fried chicken, fresh hand cut French fries, mac-n’ cheese, and hand-rolled biscuits.

SUMMIT Due 36 50 Maple St, Summit | 908-608-0222 Authentic Argentinian/Italian tapas restaurant

Huntley Taverne 3 Morris Avenue, Summit | 908-273-3166 thehuntleytaverne.com Huntley Taverne dining experience offers classic seasonal cuisine, a 250 bottle wine list, two stone fireplaces, outdoor porch dining, and private events.

Natale’s Summit Bakery 185 Broad St, Summit | 908-277-2074 natalesbakery.bakesmart.com Enjoy a selection of house made specialties including breads, pastries, pies and cakes. Daily specials. This family owned and operated bakery is serving up their delicious twist on bakery classics for over 80 years.

Roots Steakhouse

La Pastaria 327 Springfield Ave, Summit | 908-522-9088 www.lapastaria.org Italian cusine

401 Springfield Ave, Summit | 908-273-0027 rootssteakhouse.com/summit Old-fashioned NY- style Steakhouse—expect delicious USDA aged prime beef sourced from the highest quality ranches in the mid-west.

Thanksgiving Traditions

Pies

Apple • Pumpkin Fruit • Cream Pies Mince • Custard Sweet Potato

Breads

Old World Style Bread & Rolls Pastries Tea Breads

Summit House Restaurant + Bar 395 Springfield Ave, Summit | 908-273-6000 www.summithousenj.com An American restaurant and bar offering seasonal cuisine, craft cocktails, fresh local beers, and terroir-driven wines.

La Pastaria It’s all about “La Famiglia!”

Tarts

Apple Galette Cranberry Pecan Rustic Country Apple

Place Your Orders by Phone, In Person, or Online at:

natalesbakery.bakesmart.com

Closed Thanksgiving Day and Friday, November 28

FAMILY DINNER FOR FOUR PASTA $30 • EGGPLANT $32 • CHICKEN $35 • Baked Ziti • Ravioli w/Tomato Basil • Rigatoni Vodka • Penne Bolognese

• Cavatelli and Broccoli • Cavatelli w/ Ricotta • Breaded Chicken Cutlet • Chicken Francaise 6 pieces

• Chicken Parmigiana • Chicken Marsala • Chicken Savoy • Eggplant Parmigiana

Monday-Friday. Cash only. Take out only. Not available after 5:30pm.

SUMMIT BAKERY

Open Daily for Lunch, Dinner & Takeout

Family Tradition… Since 1938

327 Springfield Avenue, Summit | 908.522.9088 www.LaPastaria.com

185 Broad Street, Summit • 908-277-2074

Family Dinner for Four

November 2025 | MyVicinityMagazine.com | 37

DIAMOND MINDS

Attitude

BY BARRY FARBER

“

“A great attitude does much more than turn on the lights in our worlds; it seems to magically connect us to all sorts of serendipitous opportunities that were somehow absent before the change.”

— Earl Nightingale

What Is Attitude?

S

Some say that your attitude toward any situation is the most powerful asset you can ever possess. A positive and resilient attitude shapes not only how others respond to you, but also how you grow and learn along the way.

Last month, we talked about Service and the message from Lawrence T. Owl in Little Billy’s Search for the Magic Tree. As part two of this journey through the five secrets, Little Billy meets Bosco the Bear, whose message is simple yet profound: “Give a smile to all you see, and you shall find the Magic Tree.”

Think about that for a moment. Isn’t it amazing how something as small as a smile can change the energy around you?

The next time you take a walk, try an experiment: smile at the people who pass you by. Most will smile right back. That simple exchange—one small moment of kindness—can brighten someone’s day, including your own. The truth is, the world often reflects the attitude we bring to it.

Attitude is defined as the mental position you take regarding a fact or a state. But in real life, it’s much more than that.

• It’s not what you look at that counts, but how you look at it.

• It’s not what you hear, but how you hear it.

• It’s not what you think, but how you think it.

Your attitude colors every moment of your day—whether you realize it or not.

From it flows your joy and gratitude for life’s blessings, and from it can also come your frustration and disappointment when things don’t go as planned. Attitude is the lens through which you experience everything.

There are some circumstances in life we can change; many, we cannot.

When faced with the things we cannot change, we have two choices: we can live in disappointment, bitterness, and anger—or we can look within, find that

“

resilient spark that refuses to be broken, and rise again with renewed strength and perspective.

A positive attitude is not about forcing a smile or pretending everything is fine. It’s about responding to life with acceptance, courage, and hope. It’s about recognizing that while we can’t control every situation, we can always control how we show up for it.

When you choose to see things through a positive lens, you not only transform your own world—you help others see the light, too.

“

“I am not afraid of storms, for I’m learning how to sail my ship.”

— Louisa May Alcott

“

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. Stay tuned for a new TV show on Pain & Pleasure and follow him @barryfarberofficial

38 | Vicinity Magazine | November 2025

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