Issuu

Millburn & Short Hills

VINTAGE ROYALTY

DECOR KINGS’ RETRO CHARM

CREATING MEMORIES AT JEFF LAKE DAY CAMP

A Storyteller at Heart

JOHN C. McGINLEY

13 A Storyteller at Heart

‘Scrubs’ and ‘Rooster’ actor John C. McGinley shares the lessons he’s learned on his journey from Short Hills to Hollywood.

18 Vintage Royalty

Decor Kings channels timeless character and curated charm to elevate any space.

22 Lake Life

Jeff Lake Day Camp brings together adventure, creativity, and lasting summer memories.

IN EVERY ISSUE

4 PUBLISHER’S NOTE Rooted in Community

6 AROUND TOWN World Cup Fever

8 Q&A Özlem Turk 10 LOCAL TASTES In the Spotlight 28 COMMUNITY COLLECTIVE Water Works

32 PHOTO OP Birds of a Feather

Actor John C. McGinley

Photograph by Disney/ Brian Bowen Smith

ROOTED IN COMMUNITY

FFROM GROWING up in Short Hills to basking in the bright lights of prime time T.V. and Hollywood movies, actor John C. McGinley’s journey is a masterclass in authenticity. This month, the beloved “Scrubs” and “Rooster” star and Millburn High alumnus anchors our issue, weaving a powerful narrative of craft, community, and the resilience that defines a life well lived. McGinley’s rise was seeded in a family tradition of storytelling and forged on the bleachers of his hometown. It’s a blueprint that proves your roots aren’t

Millburn & Short Hills

MAGAZINE

something to outgrow but a foundation to build upon. His path—honed by relentless work, reshaped by fatherhood, and renewed by a connection to home—challenges us to invest in what truly sustains us: our families, our neighbors, and the places we call our own. This belief in the power of place and purpose threads through our entire issue.

We also explore the sundrenched world of Jeff Lake Day Camp, where the communal spirit of summer is alive and well. Locals laud it as a place where adventure and the simple magic of friendship transform ordinary days into lifelong memories.

Then, we step into the curated space of Decor Kings Antique Vintage & Home Decor Gallery, where history and craftsmanship collide. Here, pieces from across the globe marry nostalgia with impeccable taste, transforming living spaces into layered stories.

As you turn the pages, you’ll discover how our greatest impact often starts close to home. We’d love to hear how these stories resonate with you. Share your thoughts and ideas at marylima@millburnandshorthills.com or editor@millburnandshorthills.com.

Warm regards,

Mary Lima Publisher

www.millburnandshorthills.com @millburnshorthills_magazine

Have a story idea?

Email the editor: editor@millburnandshorthills.com

Publisher Mary Lima

marylima@millburnandshorthills.com

Editor and Lead Writer

Eve Golden

editor@millburnandshorthills.com

Writers Antonietta Henry

D.W. Hirsch

Michelle Lemieux

Sarah Nolan

Photographer Antonietta Henry

WAINSCOT MEDIA

Chairman Carroll V. Dowden

President and CEO

Mark Dowden

SVP, Group Publisher, Regional Thomas Flannery

VP, Content Strategy

Maria Regan

Creative Director

Kijoo Kim

Art Director

Rosemary O’Connell

Executive Editor Elaine Quilici

Associate Editor

Sophia Carlisle

Advertising Services Director Jacquelynn Fischer

Operations Director

Catherine Rosario

Production Designer

Chris Ferrante

Print Production Manager

Fern Meshulam

Advertising Production Associate

Griff Dowden

Millburn & Short Hills magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Millburn and Short Hills, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Copyright 2026 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

World Cup Fever

Millburn-Short Hills joins in the soccer excitement with themed events planned.

BY MICHELLE LEMIEUX

THE GLOBAL EXCITEMENT of the World Cup is coming to the streets of Millburn this summer. To hail the event, which runs from June 11 to July 19 and includes eight matches at MetLife Stadium, Explore Millburn-Short Hills is hosting a World Cup Celebration Series. This dynamic, multiweek initiative will transform the district into a premier destination for soccer fans, families, shoppers, and visitors alike.

Breaking away from the traditional at-home viewing experience, the community is invited to celebrate the tournament through free interactive events, themed dining, and coordinated retail promotions. The energy

will build throughout the six-week event schedule, culminating in a large-scale finalmatch viewing party in Taylor Park.

“This special programming brings local businesses and the broader community together to celebrate the World Cup,” says Steve Grillo, executive director of Explore Millburn-Short Hills. “Whether you’re a die-hard fan, avid player, or just curious about the World Cup, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”

BRING ON THE FUN

The World Cup Celebration Series encourages fans to explore, shop, and dine while engaging

with the tournament in new ways. Highlights include:

Online World Cup retail and restaurant guide. This curated digital resource highlights the best places in town to watch the games. It features participating businesses offering World Cup-themed specials, limited-time retail sales, and unique dining and drink offers.

World Cup Skills Day (June 20, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.). This high-energy, youth-focused soccer event is designed to inspire the next generation of players. Families are invited to Taylor Park for hands-on, skills-building activities and fitness in a fun, inclusive introduction to the global game. The Millburn Soccer Club will be on the ground hosting training sessions and skills competitions.

World Cup Mailbox Raffle. Throughout the series, shoppers can enter their receipts from local businesses into a special raffle for a chance to win gift cards to their favorite downtown spots.

World Cup Final Viewing Party (July 19, 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.). Don’t miss the grand finale of the series. Gather to watch the final match on a massive LED screen at Taylor Park, complemented by live music, local food vendors, kids’ entertainment, and more.

READY TO HOST

In an exclusive interview with Explore, Christie Huus, chief events officer of the FIFA World Cup 26 New York New Jersey Host Committee, shared that more than 1.2 million visitors are expected to travel to the region for the games, generating upward of $3.3 billion in economic impact for local businesses. “People will be coming for the big games but will also be looking for authentic experiences across New Jersey,” Huus says. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for small businesses to grow individually and to collaborate with Explore to expand their

footprint in the community and connect across Millburn-Short Hills.”

Dozens of businesses have already signed on to participate in Explore’s World Cup Series, including Signature Sponsor IDB Bank, with additional sponsorship support from JAG Physical Therapy. Playa Bowls, Guacamole Restaurant, GameChanger Fitness, La Strada, Häagen-Dazs, and Siatta Jeans will also take part with special offerings and events. Businesses interested in getting in on the action should contact info@exploremillburnshorthills.org.

Michelle Lemieux is a freelance writer, communications/PR executive, and founder of Radiancy Communications. She works in events and marketing for Explore Millburn-Short Hills. A born-and-bred Jersey Girl, she resides in Livingston with her husband and two daughters.

ABOUT EXPLORE MILLBURN-SHORT HILLS

Explore Millburn-Short Hills is the 501(c)3 nonprofit organization created to support and promote the businesses throughout the five areas of the Special Improvement District that was established in 2020. Explore organizes numerous events, musical performances, educational programs, and networking events. The organization is also responsible for various public art and streetscaping projects in town, including the Millburn Art Alley and Town Hall Plaza.

Make and Mingle

ArteVino Studio Owner Özlem Turk invites you to unwind and tap into your inner artist.

BY EVE GOLDEN

INTERVIEW WITH ÖZLEM TURK

ARTEVINO OWNER

EIGHT MONTHS AGO, Özlem Turk took over ArteVino Studio in Millburn. Within this creative space, she turns pottery making into a personal escape where wine flows, hands get messy, and everyone leaves inspired. Here, Turk discusses how she connects with the artist inside everyone and what she hopes to achieve.

What drew you to take over the studio, and what was your vision for it?

I was drawn to the studio because it already had a strong community foundation. My vision was to elevate it into a premium creative space, where people don’t just take a class but enjoy a meaningful experience. We focused on improving quality, atmosphere, and introducing more personalized, artistic work, especially in ceramics.

Your studio offers everything from pottery wheel work to painting ready-made pieces. How do you balance working with beginners while still inspiring more experienced creatives?

We design our classes to be accessible but not limiting. Beginners feel comfortable starting from zero, while more experienced guests can push their creativity further with guidance. The key is flexibility. We don’t force everyone into the same outcome.

How does the “bring your own wine” element shape the atmosphere of your classes compared to traditional pottery lessons?

The “bring your own wine” concept transforms the experience. It becomes more social, relaxed, and enjoyable. People come not only to create but to connect with friends, family, or even themselves.

You host both adult gatherings and kids’ parties. How do you tailor the experience to such different groups while keeping the creative spirit consistent?

The core is the same, creativity, but the delivery changes. Kids need fun and energy while adults want relaxation and quality time. We adjust the structure, but the spirit stays consistent.

What is something that surprises first-time visitors about working with clay?

Most people are surprised by how therapeutic working with clay is. They come in thinking it’s just an activity but leave realizing it’s a form of relaxation and expression.

Have you noticed any trends in what people want to create or how they want to spend their time in the studio?

There’s a strong shift toward personalized and meaningful pieces, including custom mugs, pet-themed items, and handmade gifts. People want something unique, not massproduced.

What has been the most rewarding or unexpected part of owning the studio so far?

The most rewarding part is seeing people reconnect with creativity. Many haven’t created anything in years, and you see that spark come back.

How do you hope the studio evolves within the community over the next few years?

We want to become a wellknown creative hub in the Millburn area, working more with local businesses, hosting private events, and expanding our ceramic offerings. The goal is steady, quality growth.

IN THE Spotlight

At F.M. Kirby Carriage House, Head Chef Jacques Marra blends seasonal cooking with immersive events.

BY EVE GOLDEN

JUST STEPS FROM the stage at Paper Mill Playhouse, the newly reimagined F.M. Kirby Carriage House Restaurant is entering a bold new era—one where dinner becomes part of the show. Recently re-opened to the public on May 6, the historic space has been transformed into a fullfledged dining destination and entertainment hub, welcoming guests five days a week with expanded hours, a new a la carte menu, and an ambitious lineup of immersive programming. For longtime theatergoers, the Carriage House has always been a familiar ritual. Now, it’s stepping into the spotlight.

ON THE MENU

At the center of this dining evolution is Head Chef Jacques Marra, whose menu draws from classic American and European tavern traditions while leaning into seasonal ingredients and understated elegance. Think oysters and vibrant vegetables alongside pastas, composed salads, and elevated comfort staples, with each dish grounded in simplicity but layered with detail.

“Designing menus around each production is a rare and exciting creative opportunity,” Marra says. “It allows us to draw inspiration from the story, setting, and time period of the show, and translate it into dishes and cocktails that enhance the guest experience. Our patrons feel transported, making their entire evening even more memorable.”

Head Chef Jacques Marra cooking

DINNER AS THEATER

That sense of immersion is intentional and extends well beyond the plate. With the debut of the Carriage House Presents series, the restaurant’s new Club Room becomes a stage of its own, hosting a rotating lineup of interactive dining experiences. Guests can find themselves inside a Revolutionaryera tavern, solving a mystery aboard the Titanic, or stepping into a Golden Girls-inspired whodunit, all while enjoying dinner.

The programming reflects a larger shift in how the Carriage House sees itself: not just as a restaurant, but as a place where storytelling, performance, and hospitality intersect.

BEYOND THE CURTAIN

“With the introduction of our new a la carte menu and extended hours, we’re able to welcome not just theatergoers but the broader community to enjoy the Carriage House experience,” Marra says. “Opening our doors beyond pre-theater service allows more guests to experience this beautiful, historic space—whether they’re attending a performance or simply looking for a great dining destination. It’s an exciting way to welcome more guests to be part of the next chapter of this iconic property.”

With an openness reflected in the atmosphere, the Carriage House moves easily between elevated and relaxed, making room for a quick cocktail at the bar, a lingering dinner, or a full evening of entertainment. A newly developed

beverage program adds to the appeal, with craft cocktails and a curated wine list designed to complement both the menu and the mood.

A PLACE TO GATHER

Beyond nightly service, the space is poised to become a go-to for private events. A collection of distinct rooms, from intimate, fireplace-lit settings to larger, tech-equipped venues, offers flexibility for everything from small gatherings to full-scale celebrations.

But what really sets the Carriage House apart is the way it brings food, performance, history, and community together at one table, creating an experience that feels both timeless and refreshingly new, where the next act is just as compelling as the first.

Top left: F.M. Kirby Carriage House opened its new event space on April 28 with a gathering for PNC Private Bank. Top right: The Davis Loft Bottom left: The Club Room Bottom right: The Blue Room

A Storyteller at Heart

‘Scrubs’ and ‘Rooster’ actor John C. McGinley shares the lessons he’s learned on his journey from Short Hills to Hollywood.

BY SARAH NOLAN

JJOHN C. MCGINLEY knew from a young age that he was meant to tell stories. It was almost as if he didn’t have a choice—there was something intrinsic that compelled him to participate in the storytelling process. “It was as clear as day, based on nothing,” McGinley says about his inclination, which became apparent around the time he started college. “I think it was genetic. Sometimes I feel I had nothing to do with any of this, other than being a fanatic about my training.”

The acclaimed actor says that growing up in Short Hills, he was the furthest thing from a theater kid; he was a jock, focused on being the best athlete he could be at his alma mater, Millburn High School. Yet at home, particularly gathered around the large, round Douglas fir table his family sat at each evening, the art of telling tales was encouraged among the five McGinley kids.

His mother, Pat, a schoolteacher at The Pingry School in Short Hills, and his father, Gerald,

John C. McGinley, who grew up in Short Hills, stars in the new HBO series ‘Rooster.’ PHOTOGRAPH BY EMILIO MADRID/HBO

a gifted salesman, had a unique way of getting their kids to speak. “You were allowed to touch the lazy Susan where Mom put the leftovers for seconds if you did two things,” McGinley remembers. “One, your plate had to be completely clear. Two, you had to tell a story. You had to contribute to the meal, and it didn’t matter what it was, whatever petulance a 12-year-old had to share.”

What at times felt like forced sharing paid off for McGinley, an actor and producer whose career spans film, television, and theater. He’s currently experiencing a resurgence of sorts, after some time off from acting when he relished his role as a full-time dad to his three kids. He’s reprised the role of the deeply sarcastic, cynical Dr. Perry Cox on a reboot of the fan favorite “Scrubs” while simultaneously taking on a standout role opposite Steve Carell in HBO’s hit comedy series “Rooster.” When producer Bill Lawrence approached him for both roles in one sitting, McGinley responded: “Put me in coach.”

JERSEY ROOTS AND VALUES

A decades-long Angeleno, McGinley says he still holds memories of growing up in Short Hills close. Riding his bike to school every day, whether to Glenwood Elementary, Millburn Middle School, or Millburn High School, is something he now realizes was a “profound privilege.”

The actor refers to himself as a “fanatical denizen” of the Millburn Deli but says his old pals (a core group with whom he still has weekly contact) will be horrified to read that the sloppy joes the shop is known for were never for him. McGinley preferred

Top: John C. McGinley, class of 1978, was a wide receiver on Millburn High School’s football team.

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF JOHN C. MCGINLEY

Bottom: The actor recently reprised his role of Dr. Perry Cox on ABC/Hulu’s revival of the hit series ‘Scrubs.’

PHOTOGRAPH BY DISNEY/FRANK MICELOTTA

a fresh-sliced turkey sandwich with some mustard and lettuce on deli rye—“perfection,” he says.

Another core memory is driving his father down Hobart Avenue to the Short Hills train station in the morning. He’d wake early so his dad could make the 6:20 a.m. train to Wall Street; the trade-off being that he could use the car for the day. “The tacit understanding was that when he got home, I’d be there to pick him up,” McGinley says. “His words could’ve been tattooed on my forehead: ‘Be on

time—or be early!’ I’ve applied that to my work ethic, and it’s served me really well as my career has progressed. As a result, I can’t tolerate tardiness, I think it’s rude.”

Among the classic 1970s cliques including stoners, jocks, motorheads, and artsy types, McGinley fell squarely in the jock category, excelling at track and football. He credits Millburn coaches for keeping him in line. He says their ramifications sometimes held more teeth than his parents. “The

Top left: John C. McGinley (right), age 4, blows out birthday candles with his sister, Helen, age 2, who shares the same birthday. PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF JOHN C. MCGINLEY

Top right: John C. McGinley (right) with brother Mark and mother, Pat, at a home rented by McGinley in Bay Head, circa 2005 PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF JOHN C. MCGINLEY Center: John C. McGinley on top of Mount Major in New Hampshire PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF JOHN C. MCGINLEY

Bottom left: John C. McGinley celebrates a family wedding at St. Rose of Lima Church in Short Hills with his daughters, Billie Grace and Kate; mother, Pat; and wife, Nichole. PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF HELEN MCGINLEY

Bottom right: John C. McGinley (far right) at a family gathering celebrating his mother’s birthday in Short Hills PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF HELEN MCGINLEY

coaches could take you to task for misbehaving, and you would stop because the consequence of running stadium steps was just excruciating,” he recalls. “They were good at making behavior more palatable to the way it served the team. As a result, I stopped getting detention. The coaches at Millburn kept us on track.”

LED BY PASSION

Despite a mom who performed at Story Time Theater at the Paper Mill Playhouse and a salesman father who was “very comfortable sewing a yarn,” McGinley says it wasn’t until he went off to college that his passion for storytelling began to grow. He was immediately attracted to the radio station at Ohio Wesleyan University, which he describes as a “track into the performative.”

He later transferred to Syracuse University, then New York University, where he was accepted into the graduate program during his senior year. McGinley explains that the acting program was highly competitive, and many students were cut. But he was determined to graduate, which he did.

The struggle didn’t stop there.

McGinley also recalls the brutal nature of auditions. “I tell students, if you have something else you are even OK at, definitely do it, because [acting] is really hard. It’s very personal. Because when you’re rejected, they’re still making the film. They’re just not doing it with you.”

McGinley says actors often develop a thick skin out of self-preservation, but unfortunately, that often comes at a cost. “You lose your loveliness,” he says. “Or to quote ‘The Little Prince,’ that which makes you unique in all the world. As soon as you lose that, you’re dead.”

McGinley is proud that he has been able to stay grounded in Hollywood.

THE ROAD TO FAME

As a child, McGinley noticed he had trouble reading. When he looked at a page, the words seemed like hieroglyphics. To cope, he began reading aloud—a tool often used by those with dyslexia that helps fill in gaps by using context. “I don’t know if it was psychotic or an epiphany, but I started reading out loud— Edith Wharton, Joe Campbell, Joseph Conrad, Jack London. I did it for hours and hours. Then, when I’d get a piece

of text for an audition, I could do it. It felt empowering. I could connect words, make sentences, and say them out loud. It engaged me and opened up a whole new world for me.”

McGinley’s path to stardom reads like a classic Hollywood script. After college, he was performing as an understudy in a Circle in the Square production in New York City when he was spotted by renowned filmmaker Oliver Stone, who cast him in his breakthrough role in “Platoon.” He went on to collaborate

Top: Inducted into the Millburn High School Athletic Hall of Fame in 2016, John C. McGinley (left) poses with fellow classmates from 1978, Gilbert Morris, Karen Eastman Bigos, Bill Githens, and Dan Kirk. PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF KAREN EASTMAN BIGOS

Bottom left: John C. McGinley and Zach Braff in ‘Scrubs’ PHOTOGRAPH BY DISNEY/DARKO SIKMAN

Bottom right: Steve Carell and John C. McGinley in ‘Rooster’ PHOTOGRAPH BY KATRINA MARCINOWSKI/HBO

with Stone on many other films including “Wall Street,” “Talk Radio,” and “Born on the Fourth of July,” before landing the role of Dr. Cox on “Scrubs,” which ran for nine seasons. After an incredible run, McGinley continued working as an actor and producer—then the pandemic hit.

THE ROLE OF FULL-TIME DAD

McGinley’s son, Max, was born with Down syndrome, and therefore was particularly vulnerable to COVID-19. During this time, the family spent time at home and at the beach down the street.

As the world began to open up, McGinley started to drive Max and his two girls, Billie Grace and Kate Aleena, to their activities. “I really liked it,” he says. “When you’re the driver, everybody chirps in the back. I felt I had a place there, and it felt good. I didn’t have stress.”

As for the itch to tell stories? He fulfilled it in the evenings, spinning tales about Randall the Redtail Hawk—chapters and chapters of misadventures that he would craft each day to prepare for story time in the evenings. He was in a groove and thought he might retire from acting.

But then, two summers ago, his old friend Bill Lawrence rented a house two doors down from him. A couple months later, Lawrence told McGinley he needed to talk to him. “He said, ‘I want to steal your life,’” McGinley recalls. “He was writing something for Steve Carell, and he wanted to have a character based on me who would be the head of the college Carell would work at. Of course, I said yes. Then he added that I couldn’t hose him on the ‘Scrubs’ reboot. He was offering me two hit T.V.

shows in a 15-minute period.”

Lawrence had convinced him that he was ready to go back to acting. “With his writing, I’m at home,” he says.

COMING OUT OF RETIREMENT

In “Rooster,” McGinley plays college dean Walter Mann opposite Carell, whose character he convinces to take a teaching position at the school. Mann has many similarities to McGinley, including spending time in a sauna he calls the “hot house of truth”—similar to the sauna McGinley introduced Lawrence to at his home. McGinley describes Mann as “restrained and flat but genuine,” never approaching the “cyclone” of Dr. Cox in “Scrubs.”

As for reconnecting with his old character in the recent reboot, he says it was like “riding a bike.” Many of the original cast members, including Zach Braff, Donald Faison, Sarah Chalke, and Judy Reyes, have stayed in touch, and Braff even invited the “new kids” who play five interns on the show to join in dinners—McGinley says they are “miraculous.”

While both the characters and shows are profoundly different, Lawrence (who is also the producer

of “Shrinking” and “Ted Lasso”) always has a way of tugging at the heartstrings of viewers, McGinley says. “That’s his superpower,” he adds. “He’s the Norman Lear of his generation. He’s not afraid to crack open the sternum of characters and show us their hearts. That takes spine as a writer. It can get too melancholy and saccharine, but he doesn’t go there. It’s a gift to be a part of it.”

Top: John C. McGinley with his son, Max, who was born with Down syndrome and is at the heart of the actor’s advocacy work through the Global Down Syndrome Foundation PHOTOGRAPH BY RUSSELL BAER

Bottom: John C. McGinley with his mother at the Short Hills Club at the rehearsal dinner for his brother Mark’s daughter, Megan McGinley PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF JOHN C. MCGINLEY

Vintage Royalty

Decor Kings channels timeless character and curated charm to elevate any space.

BY ANTONIETTA HENRY

WWHEN

ENTERING the eclectic space that houses Decor Kings Antique, Vintage & Home Decor Gallery, you’re met with nostalgia, vintage flair, and beauty. The store is owned and operated by brothers Michael and Robert Efrus, who focus on helping clients find décor from all over the world. Lovers of antiques and hardto-find pieces will be dazzled by what the duo has to offer. Whether it’s a vintage sign, a wine-barrel chair, or Louis Vuitton luggage, you’re likely to

find your fit. Even the cash register is vintage, adding a special nod to days of old.

FULL OF CHARACTER

Since November 2024, the Decor Kings storefront has been a dream come true for the Efrus brothers. “It’s been our lifelong passion to serve our community,” Michael says. “We want Decor Kings to be a community hub in the place we grew up.” Their story began long before

the shop opened. “I was 17 when I went to auctioneer school,” Robert says. “I started out selling cars as an auctioneer, which led me to surplus merchandise.”

By the time Robert was in his 20s, he had built a business that began to catch Michael’s interest. At just 13 years old, Michael was helping on weekends. “After buying several vintage pieces, we found a niche that really seemed to work,” Michael says.

The brothers have always enjoyed finding pieces that put a smile on their customers’ faces. “We want to appeal to all ages and backgrounds,” Michael adds.

GROWING THE BUSINESS

Robert, who attended Rutgers University, built a strong online presence with an eBay store. On weekends, he would set up at local events, selling a wide range of items— from clothing to wetsuits. Over time,

Opposite page: Robert and Michael Efrus are brothers and owners of Decor Kings.

Top right: Owner Michael Efrus showcases one of Decor Kings’ many vintage signs.

Bottom left: Décor Kings offers vintage finds from around the world.

the pair began to streamline their focus toward vintage goods, eventually becoming regular vendors at some of New York City’s best antique shows and events.

“We became recognized at these events,” Michael says. “Decorators and restaurant owners would approach us for help sourcing pieces for homes, apartments, bars, and restaurants.”

The brothers soon realized that weekend-only events were limiting and began selling during the week as well. At the time, Michael was still in high school. After transferring to Watchung Hills Regional High School, he was granted early work release during his senior year. “Little did I know that move would shape me—it gave me the freedom to work, network, and sell a lot of merchandise during that time,” he says.

Robert still enjoys the energy of large-scale events. “I like the beer festivals, auto shows, antique

shows, collectible shows,” he says. “There’s always so much excitement and people coming together from all over.”

GLOBAL SOURCING

As trends change, Decor Kings follows the tide. In coastal homes, clients are drawn to driftwood pieces, with a growing focus on teakwood items like root console and coffee tables.

“The distressed look is still maintaining its popularity, and we encourage customers not to try to ‘fix’ pieces they plan to sell or bring to us, as it can affect the value,” Michael says.

Outdoor accent pieces also are trending. The storefront is lined with statues, planters, and signage. “There is absolutely no other store in the area that offers such an incredible array of signs, both small and large, and we are constantly sourcing new pieces,” he adds.

Michael recently returned from

The Efrus brothers, Robert and Michael Specialty logo bags

three months on the road, traveling through Florida, Alabama, Tennessee, and Thailand. “I attended some of the largest antique and collector car shows in the United States,” he says.

The shop also features current art. “We represent a select group of incredible artists from New Jersey and around the world,” Michael says. The walls of Decor Kings are filled with unique works, mixed among vintage signs, creating a well-rounded experience for collectors.

STANDOUT SPACES

The brothers are proud to be part of the community they grew up in. Their parents also worked locally—Scott Efrus owned an auto parts business, and Rita Efrus is a podiatrist.

As they continue to support other establishments in the area, Michael and Robert are excited to further shape the local business district. “We offer discounts to anyone with a local

business, including decorators and restaurant owners,” Michael says.

Whether it’s for a professional or personal project, the owners are thrilled to provide patrons with unique finds. They encourage anyone interested in antiques or looking to redo their home, man cave, she shed, bar, or restaurant to come in and take a look around. “Meeting people,

learning what they want, and helping them source pieces that set their space apart is really rewarding,” Robert says.

Antonietta Henry is a wife, mother of four, and owner of Antonietta Henry Photography in Pompton Plains. She enjoys exploring and learning more about towns throughout her home state of New Jersey.

Above: A curated collection of vintage décor Right: Vintage signage and accent pieces

LAKE Life

Jeff Lake Day Camp brings together adventure, creativity, and lasting summer memories.

BY D.W. HIRSCH

Above: Enjoying some high-energy fun on the inflatable obstacle course

Below: Campers and staff compete in a canoe race during Color War.

iIF YOU LIKE

STARTING your summer mornings with a bus ride filled with singalongs and Disney trivia, ending in cheers upon arrival, then you’re a Jeff Lake camper. Set along the cove of Lake Jefferson in Stanhope, Jeff Lake Day Camp feels like a summer home to many families in the region. The excitement starts early in the day when kids board the bus, and by the time they arrive at camp, the energy is already high.

“My favorite part of Jeff Lake is that in a world that’s constantly changing, the same traditions and amazing friendships are always waiting for them at camp,” says Emily Kagan, a third-generation owner and director of the camp.

A SECOND HOME

The four pillars of Jeff Lake Day Camp—family, spirit, tradition, and sportsmanship—guide everything the camp does. The story is rooted in family: Kagan’s great grandparents originally purchased the land with plans for a bungalow community. When her grandparents, Ira and Linda Fish, took over the 350-acre property, Ira envisioned something different. A lifelong camper, he opened Jeff Lake Day Camp in 1958 with just 12 campers. Today, that number has grown to several hundred each day, while still holding onto the same core values.

Although the camp is located in Sussex County, it has deep ties to the Short Hills and Millburn

communities. Families from the area have been sending their children for decades, and Kagan herself grew up in Short Hills, where she has lived for more than 30 years.

Jeff Lake Day Camp is also proudly screen-free—something campers quickly embrace. Phones stay in backpacks and lockers, allowing kids to fully engage with the day. “We all need a break to be present, and the kids are really happy to unplug,” Kagan says. “Part of that is because we keep them so engaged and having fun.”

ADVENTURE AND CREATIVITY

The camp offers something for everyone. The youngest attendees, preschoolers (age 4) through

Seventh-grade boys climb to new heights on the Project Adventure Course.

kindergarteners, join Freshman Campus, where a staff trained in early childhood education focuses on skill-building through ageappropriate activities. The programs continue through 10th grade, followed by a Counselor-in-Training Program. Many staff members are former campers themselves, adding to the sense of continuity.

Across camp, activities are designed so kids can succeed at every level. Younger campers play basketball on courts sized just for them, while older campers use courts that match their abilities. Every child learns to swim in one of five heated indoor pools, each designed for different comfort levels. Swimming often leads to lake time, which remains a highlight of the day. “Our lake is the heartbeat of our camp,” Kagan says. “Boating, fishing, and the inflatable obstacle course are always exciting for the kids.”

The Project Adventure Course

Top left: Emily Kagan, co-owner and director of Jeff Lake Day Camp, celebrates an award with a camper at Wigwam.

Bottom left: Emily Kagan, co-owner and director of Jeff Lake Day Camp, with her family in their Short Hills home

Bottom right: Dan and Jane Kagan, co-owners of Jeff Lake Day Camp

encourages participation over competition. Campers can challenge themselves on high and low ropes courses or work their way up to the zipline. The Ninja Warrior Course is another favorite, drawing plenty of excitement.

Creativity also has a strong presence at camp. “My favorite activity at camp is Sundance, an outdoor arts and crafts program,” Kagan says. “Projects are done around a campfire, and kids experience that sense of flow. It’s the most Zen area of camp.”

Campers are furthermore introduced to experiences they might not otherwise try. The Nature Center, home to gardens and animals, sits alongside a wide range of offerings including science, dance, yoga, mini golf, pickleball, archery, and a full drama program. The goal is to give children variety while building confidence and independence.

“Campers get a taste of everything,” Kagan says. “They can go from the soccer field to the pottery wheel to the lake.”

TRADITIONS THAT LAST

Traditions are at the heart of the Jeff Lake Day Camp experience and are often what campers remember most. Friday’s Wigwam brings the entire camp together for singing, laughter, and a sense of community. At the end of the season, Color War divides campers into Blue and White teams for friendly competition, with the winning team earning the honor of displaying their banner in the cafeteria. “It’s a great experience for

our kids to compete and to learn about teamwork,” Kagan says. “They learn sportsmanship and how to win and lose with integrity.”

By the end of the day, when the buses return to Short Hills around 5 p.m., campers are eager to share their stories— only to do it all again the next morning.

“My grandfather used to say that little kids can do big things, and that’s what Jeff Lake is about,” Kagan says. That philosophy has carried through generations. Many former campers who started at age 4 now send their own children to Jeff Lake Day Camp.

The camp’s four co-directors have each been part of the community for more than 20 years, reinforcing a deep sense of continuity. For Kagan and her family, the camp is more than a business. Her parents, co-owners Dan and Jane Kagan—longtime Short Hills residents— remain connected to camp families throughout the year. In the offseason, the camp operates out of its office in downtown Millburn. “Jeff Lake has been part of the Short Hills and Millburn community for close to 70 years,” Kagan says, “and we plan to be part of it for the next 70.”

D.W. Hirsch is a feature writer based in Union. She is the author of the memoir “Star Trek, Mom and Las Vegas: A Grand Adventure” and the haiku collection “Haiku In The Life Of You.”

Right: Campers enjoy one of the five heated pools at Jeff Lake Day Camp during daily Free Swim. Bottom left: Second-grade girls make memories together at the Glow Party, a special event at Jeff Lake Day Camp.

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Water Works

Greenwood Gardens recently unveiled its restored century-old Cascade fountain.

BY STAFF WRITER

LAST MONTH, GREENWOOD Gardens debuted its fully restored Cascade fountain, a seven-tiered Italianate Baroque feature that hasn’t flowed since the early 20th century. Set into the hillside below the East Terrace, the structure is one of the few examples of its kind in the United States—grand in scale but designed to feel integrated into the surrounding landscape.

The fountain was originally created

for Joseph P. Day by William Whetten Renwick, an architect and artist with ties to one of America’s most prominent design families. Drawing inspiration from a 17th-century Italian fountain by Carlo Maderno, Renwick translated European drama into a distinctly American garden setting— symmetrical, architectural, and meant to be experienced from multiple vantage points. Over time, however, the fountain fell quiet.

A GRAND RESTORATION

After a three-year, $2.7 million restoration led by Robinson Anderson Summers Landscape Architects and Hobbs Incorporated, the Cascade fountain has been brought back to life. The team prioritized preservation wherever possible, retaining much of the original structure while updating systems to support modern use. The refreshed fountain sharpens what was already there. New plantings frame the stonework, accessible twin staircases improve access, and restored Rookwood ceramics—featuring shell, leaf, and masque motifs—add decorative detail.

Positioned to overlook the 1,200acre South Mountain Reservation, the fountain anchors a view that feels expansive without losing intimacy. It’s easy to imagine it becoming a natural pause point for visitors moving through the garden’s terraces and winding paths, bringing a defining feature of the landscape back into focus.

The reopening of the fountain last month marks the completion of Greenwood Gardens’ major water feature restorations, a milestone for the 28-acre public space, which transitioned from a private estate to a nonprofit destination in 2003. Today, the garden balances historic preservation with public programming, from horticulture to art and music.

Alex McDonald, Millburn-Short Hills Township business administrator; Alan Summers, principal of Robinson Anderson Summers Landscape Architects; Sofia A. Blanchard, emeritus trustee and co-founder of Greenwood Gardens; Louise Moos, chairman of Greenwood Gardens Board of Trustees; Abby O’Neill, executive director of Greenwood Gardens; Frank Saccomandi, mayor of Millburn-Short Hills Township; Hon. Dr. Eileen Poiani, commissioner of the New Jersey Italian Heritage Commission; and Rich Murphy, deputy director of Greenwood Gardens

Greenwood Gardens’ Cascade fountain circa 2024 PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF GREENWOOD GARDENS ARCHIVES

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERICA MOFFITT, NAKI STUDIOS

Cipriano Law Offices

LAWRENCE J. GREENBERG

Under Construction Oceanfront | Summer 2027 Completion - Orchard Hills presents one of the finest homes being offered at the Jersey shore, located on a sprawling 150' wide lot. High end appointments throughout, quality workmanship, and attention to detail is the mark of Orchard Hills. This 8 bedroom, 8/1 bath Shingle style home offers old world charm and the amenities of today. A great home for entertaining offering generous open spaces, rift and quartered oak floors, custom trim/ built-ins, custom inset cabinets with butlers pantry, Lutron lighting controls, full home automation and built in speakers/cameras.

Under Construction Oceanfront | Summer 2027 Completion - Orchard Hills presents one of the ﬁnest homes being offered at the Jersey shore, located on a sprawling 105' wide lot. High end appointments throughout, quality workmanship, and attention to detail is the mark of Orchard Hills. This 7 bedroom, 7/2 bath Shingle style home offers old world charm and the amenities of today A great home for entertaining offering generous open spaces, rift and quartered oak ﬂoors, custom trim/built-ins, custom inset cabinets with butlers pantry, Lutron lighting controls, full home automation and built in speakers/cameras.

Designed & Built By

Under Construction | Summer 2027 Completion - Orchard Hills presents one of the ﬁnest homes being offered at the Jersey shore, located on a sprawling 120' wide lot. High end appointments throughout, quality workmanship, and attention to detail is the mark of Orchard Hills. This 6/7 bedroom, 7/1 bath Shingle style home offers old world charm and the amenities of today. A great home for entertaining offering generous open spaces, rift and quartered oak ﬂoors, custom trim/built-ins, custom inset cabinets with butlers pantry, Lutron lighting controls, full home automation and built in speakers/ cameras.

BIRDS OF A FEATHER

BY STAFF WRITER

THIS SPRING, the Cora Hartshorn Arboretum brought nature lovers together for a season of connection and discovery. March and April included a lineup of birdthemed events beginning with hands-on creativity and learning, from a Design Your Own Telescope workshop led by Millburn High School robotics students to Birding by Ear, an adult program that shifted the focus from sight to sound. A trivia night at Pallet Brewing was also held, along with the ever-popular Owl Prowl Undernight, where families explore the woods after

dark. The programming continued with a Bird-Friendly Gardening workshop and a relaxed, all-ages Draw a Bird Day, celebrating expression.

All these special events led to Beak Week, a spirited bird-a-thon held April 17 to 24. Participants formed teams, identified species across New Jersey, and collected pledges along the way. Equal parts friendly competition and local fundraiser, Beak Week offered a meaningful way to connect with nature and community.