Millburn Short Hills October 2025 by Wainscot Media

Millburn & Short Hills

JENINE LAVIN

#1 REAL ESTATE TEAM COLDWELL BANKER

YOUR DREAM, OUR MISSION WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY:

“Debbie is a star! She helped us plan, prepare and execute, and kept us up to date on how the market was going. With her advice and direction, we were able to sell quickly and at an excellent price. I would recommend Debbie all day, every day.” ~Phyllis M.

“Debbie is top notch in every way: knowledgeable, savvy, kind, sincere, ethical, trustworthy, smart, responsive, decisive, and highly skilled at what she does. She made us feel as if we were her only clients at all times. We felt completely at ease even during the tensest part of the home selling and purchasing processes because we knew we were in such capable, steady, experienced hands. She is a force of nature and cares about her clients and her partners—every single tradesmen she referred us to had the absolute highest praise for her. She’s incredibly kind but absolutely no pushover. You want her in your corner. We can’t recommend her highly enough.” ~Sarah K.

“Debbie and her amazing support staff and service partners truly delivered to sell our home for a great price. She knows the market, the area, and the industry. She was spot-on in her confident opinions on what we should and should not do. Always reachable, she and her team made us feel we were her only clients. Thank you, Debbie!” ~Ford S.

READY TO MOVE?

Member of CEO Circle - an elite group of Coldwell Banker Realty’s top agents from across the country.

12 Fall Style Guide

On one block in Millburn, you can enjoy perusing the latest fall fashions.

16 Mahjong Maven

Combining Peloton energy, modern mixology, and a side of philanthropy, Jenine Lavin built a thriving Mahjong community one tile at a time.

20 Home Team

New Jersey Devils left wing Jesper Bratt has settled into Short Hills with his fiancée, Nicole Laud, where home and hockey share top billing. He opens up about his competitive drive, staying grounded, and keeping his game sharp.

IN THIS ISSUE

4 PUBLISHER’S NOTE Welcoming October

6 AROUND TOWN The Spirit of Shopping Local

8 LOCAL TASTES Press Pause and UnWined

26 Q&A With Dr. Kate Diskin

30 BETTER LIVING Fall Table Settings

32 PHOTO OP Rally for Tennis COVER

Jesper Bratt and Nicole Laud in their Short Hills home.

Photograph by Melissa Spector

OWELCOMING OCTOBER

OCTOBER IS THE true beginning of fall, and we’re thrilled to welcome you to this issue stacked with great reads and community highlights.

We kick off the fall season with our latest cover star, Jesper Bratt. A professional hockey player and current left wing for the New Jersey Devils, Bratt invited us into his home in Short Hills, which he shares with his fiancée. He gave us insight into the competitive world of hockey where dedication, determination, and a love for the sport rule the ice.

Ice might only be on the rink for now, but temperatures are dropping fast. If you’re hoping to swap out some of those summer outfits for pieces better fit for the cooler weather, look no further than downtown Millburn. Our vibrant community has a few of the best shopping spots around for fall and winter clothing, including Jia, Bungalow, and Pure Barre, which we highlight in our guide to fall style.

Of course, Millburn and Short Hills is more than just a fabulous shopping scene; it’s also a place where people of all walks of life can come together and celebrate tradition, new experiences, and a bit of fun.

That’s evident in our feature spotlighting Jenine Lavin, the founder of Mix & Mahj. Ever wanted to play Mahjong poolside, while sipping on a delicious cocktail?

Lavin’s inspired events let you do just that—but her organization isn’t just about fun and games. Lavin feels strongly about giving back, and her latest endeavor is Mahjong with Meaning, an event for breast cancer awareness. Lavin’s efforts ensure every player can move toward a stronger community and better world one tile at a time.

Thanks for reading this issue. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do!

Warmly,

Mary Lima Publisher

Millburn & Short Hills

Publisher Mary Lima

Editor and Lead Writer Eve Golden

Writer Jenna Galletti

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 Paoloni 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 2025 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

LAWRENCE J. GREENBERG

PRICE UPON REQUEST

Oceanfront | New Home in Bay Head, designed and built by Orchard Hills Design & Construction. This 6 bedroom, 6½ bath shingle style home is available for immediate occupancy. Admire the marble slab kitchen backsplash and countertops. Enjoy the latest flush outlets by Bocci in the kitchen, Wolf, Sub-Zero and Scottsman appliances. The home features Urban Electric & Tracey Glover lighting fixtures throughout. All of the custom tile design was completed by Virtue Tile(Summit) featuring Ann Sacks and Artistic Tile. Hardware designs featured plumbing fixtures by Franz Viegener & California Faucets, throughout the home are custom rift & quartered blonde white oak floors. The home is fully automated by Control4 and a full Lutron lighting system with cameras and a Sonos multi zone sound system. Western red cedar roof shakes & siding shingles complete this shingle style Bay Head home.

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Lawrence J. Greenberg, Broker Associate

(732) 691-7524 DIRECT (732) 899-0272 OFFICE

Designed & Built By

The Spirit of Shopping Local

When it comes to shopping holidays, Christmas, Mother’s Day, and Valentine’s Day often top the list. But Halloween is one of the best days of the year to support your local businesses— and have some fun while you’re at it!

HERE ARE SOME GREAT REASONS TO SHOP LOCAL:

• Support Local Jobs: Local businesses are major employers. When you shop local, you help sustain jobs in your community.

• Keep Money in the Community: A higher percentage of money spent at local businesses stays within the local economy through wages, taxes, and local services.

• Support and Encourage Entrepreneurship: Supporting small businesses fosters innovation and helps new local entrepreneurs succeed.

• Build Community Connections: Shopping locally encourages face-toface interactions, building relationships, and strengthening your sense of community.

• Find Unique Products and Services: Local shops often offer handcrafted, one-ofa-kind, or regionally specific items you can’t find in big chains.

• Receive Personalized Customer Service: Local business owners often provide more personalized and responsive customer service.

BY STEVE GRILLO, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, EXPLORE MILLBURN-SHORT HILLS

EACH YEAR, Explore Millburn-Short Hills hosts a Downtown Trick-orTreat event, where dozens of local businesses open their doors to kids in costume and their families for candy, smiles, and surprises. As you and your children make your way through Downtown Millburn collecting sweets, take a moment to explore what our local shops have to offer.

Here’s how you can make the most of it: Step inside a store you’ve never visited before; chat with local business owners, and learn about their products

and services; invite friends from nearby towns to join the fun and discover Millburn’s unique charm.

This Halloween, let it be about more than candy—let it be about community.

Join us on Friday, Oct. 31, for an afternoon full of fun, flavor, and local flair!

Shopping local isn’t just about buying products; it’s about investing in your community, economy, and environment. Every local purchase helps shape the place you call home.

ABOUT EXPLORE MILLBURN-SHORTHILLS

Explore Millburn-Short Hills is the 501(c)3 non-profit organization established 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 the town including the Millburn Art Alley and Town Hall Plaza.

The spooks and smiles are back! Downtown Millburn’s sweetest Halloween tradition returns Oct. 31.

PRESS PAUSE AND UnWined

BY EVE GOLDEN

IF YOU EVER FOUND yourself stalled in front of the shelves eyeing the bottle with the prettiest label as your escape route, Floyd Gray is demystifying wine selection and rewriting preconceived notions. As the owner of UnWined Boutique, Gray has transformed what could have been just another shop into a gathering place where stories flow as freely as a great bottle of wine.

IN GOOD TASTE

Not taking the traditional wine entrepreneur route, Gray explains, “I’ve always been drawn to the way wine connects people, whether it’s sharing a bottle with friends, pairing it with food, or discovering the story behind a vineyard. Over time, that passion turned into a vision of creating a neighborhood shop where wine feels approachable, educational, and fun rather than intimidating.”

This philosophy permeates every aspect of UnWined Boutique, from the curated selection to the unexpected discoveries that happen when you’re willing to experiment. “The most interesting food pairing discovery was when Aaron Cowan, our wine consultant, and I did

Floyd Gray’s UnWined Boutique brings authentic wine culture to Downtown Millburn.

our podcast, live from the store,” Gray recalls. “We always heard fried chicken and Champagne go together as a food match, but never really tried it. So, we bought KFC and Popeyes chicken to test out if they would match. The crispy fried chicken, the brioche and green apple flavor of the Champagne were an instant food match.”

SMALL BATCH BRILLIANCE

It’s exactly this kind of approachable experimentation that sets UnWined apart from the sterile experience of big-box retailers, with Gray’s expert sourcing strategy. “We specially curate our selection to offer customers wines from vintners they have never heard of,” he says. “Small producers make good wines, and most customers don’t know about it. So, when I plan a meeting with one of my wine distributors, I make sure to ask for wine that is not mass produced and sold at the larger chain liquor stores.”

This affinity for under-the-radar labels extends to Gray’s perspective on value, particularly when it comes to overlooked categories. “Best value category would be Italian white wines,” he suggests. “Wines like Vermentino, Gavi, Verdicchio, Arneis, Fruilano, and

Falanghina. Beautiful white wines that have amazing flavors that pair with most foods.”

THE STORY BEHIND EVERY SIP

Behind every successful business is a great story—and Gray’s real passion lies in storytelling. “I believe customers don’t want to hear about the notes or the tannins of a wine,” he says. “Customers love stories of the country the wine came from, the ground it grew in, and the process it takes to make the wine. That is what makes customers truly appreciate the wine they are drinking.”

This storytelling approach has found its perfect medium in the podcast, “Somm and Somm’er,” that Gray cohosts with Cowan. “Some of our best episodes consist of ‘what if’ topics, such as UnWined Theme Park,” Gray shares. “In this episode we talked about what if UnWined Boutique created a wine theme park, where every section of the park was a wine making country. When you visit those countries, you can enjoy the food and wine from that country. We had a lot of fun with that episode.”

The podcast has deepened Gray’s understanding of his craft. “Podcasting has changed the way I think about wine and food,” he says. “When you’re creating content for an audience, you must look at wine not just as a product, but as a story, how it connects to culture, history, and everyday life.”

Looking ahead, Gray has ambitious plans for fall programming, including two bourbon raffle parties, Bordeaux dinner tastings with local Millburn restaurants, Tequila tasting, and other events like World Cup and Wine.

“What makes our shop essential to Millburn is the personal, communitycentered experience we provide, something big box stores and online retailers simply cannot replicate,” Gray explains. “We know our customers by name, remember their preferences, and curate recommendations that suit their taste and occasion.”

As UnWined Boutique evolves, its purpose remains to connect people through memorable bottles, thoughtful guidance, and the stories behind every pour.

Opposite page, left: Wine Consultant Aaron Cowan, right: Owner Floyd Gray—both co-host the podcast “Somm and Somm’er.”

This page: UnWined goes beyond bottle sales from dinner tastings to local artist showcases that transform their wine shop into an after-hours cultural destination.

Fall Style Guide

On one block in Millburn, you can enjoy perusing the latest fall fashions.

Modern Ease

Jia offers a refined collection of day-to-night essentials with a touch of flair—pieces that slip easily into rotation and stand up to life’s hustle.

The team is known for its discerning eye, its curation of the latest styles and trends, and its engaging personal-shopping experience that feels considered. This season, expect sleek knits, elevated denim, silky blouses, and effortless dresses. Look for vegan-suede jogger sets that balance softness and structure, and their popular totes and carryalls that organize the day with easy refinement. Clean, chic, and wearable, proportions are thoughtful, layers are light yet intentional, and silhouettes are designed to mix and match. True to its meaning of “beautiful,” Jia ensures you leave confident, polished, and perfectly put together.

Jia Boutique 359 Millburn Ave.

Wardrobe Heroes

Bungalow has mastered the art of the edit. Its carefully curated pieces don’t linger on hangers—they move quickly into the wardrobes of discerning, style-conscious shoppers who recognize quality when they see it.

This season’s sweater collection captures everything we love about fall: rich textures, thoughtful silhouettes, and that unmistakable feeling of pulling together a look that just works. Designed with understated sophistication that never feels forced, the collection resonates with everyone from emerging tastemakers to seasoned style insiders who appreciate the special details. Think oversized cardigans for layering over slip dresses, cashmere-soft knits that move seamlessly from coffee meetings to dinner plans, tastefully cropped pullovers with impeccable proportions paired with high-waisted denim, and richly textured styles that elevate any look. The shop also keeps denim current and easy with staples that elevate the everyday and anchor a wardrobe. When the moment calls for more, their polished picks deliver—chic satin dresses with a fluid drape and blazers that instantly refine in one move.

Bungalow

353 Milburn Ave.

Style in Motion

As fall hits its stride, the Pure Barre studio shop has become the smart set’s not-so-secret weapon for refined athleisurewear.

Its star player is Lululemon’s timeless Define Jacket, now available in classic black, navy, and ballet pink—three ways to look pulled together whether you’re dashing to a fitness class or a brunch meetup. Students love its studio-to-street versatility, while style-forward fans swear by its sleek silhouette, which plays nicely with everything from leggings and joggers to denim—it’s the undisputed MVP of elevated neutrals.

Pure Barre’s edit cuts the hassle of mall runs. Scoop up Lululemon’s City Essentials Pouch (ideal for your wallet, keys, and other small essentials) and the brand’s cult-favorite belt bag for low-effort polish that turns a quick errand into a style moment. Beyond the staples, discover elevated basics from Alo’s buttery-soft layers, Free People’s effortlessly cool pieces, and Beyond Yoga’s must-have separates. Swing by postworkout—your closet will thank you.

351 Millburn Ave.

Pure Barre

Our top-quality cabinetry services and products are only available at select locations including:

Mahjong

Combining Peloton energy, modern mixology, and a side of philanthropy, Jenine Lavin built a thriving Mahjong community one tile at a time.

BY EVE GOLDEN

P

POOL LOUNGERS,

cocktails in hand, laughing as you place your winning tiles on the floating Mahjong mat— nearby, others chat over post-workout smoothies while strategizing their next game. This is a typical afternoon at a Mix & Mahj event, where founder Jenine Lavin has reimagined the ancient tile game as a catalyst for connection.

THE WINNING HAND

Lavin’s Mix & Mahj lightbulb moment was a gradual process. “I noticed many players in our community also play racket sports, golf, or boutique fitness classes,” she explains. With hybrid events like Move & Mahj and Racquet and Rack It, she adds, “[t]his combination of a physical activity with the social-mental elements of Mahjong is quite impactful, and one of the characteristics of Mix & Mahj that makes our events and community so unique.”

While collaborations with Auberge Resorts and jewelry designer Kendra Scott spotlight Mix & Mahj’s growth, Lavin’s heart stays locally rooted.

“Trend by J&M and Lavender & Sage in Summit opened their doors

to me early on,” she recalls. “Their creativity and support made those first Shop & Play events possible.”

POOLSIDE PERFECTION

Prepping a poolside Mahjong soiree isn’t all confetti and Champagne, as Lavin stages special floating AquaMahj mats and perfects all the nuances. “Every detail is considered, reconsidered, and finalized based on the theme of the event,” Lavin shares. “The guest experience is the end result of significant physical and mental preparation.” Watching an idea blossom into a successful event, seeing initial introductions turn into laughter, guests sharing stories, and forgetting their phones for a while is the ultimate fuel that drives the business.

“That is the most rewarding aspect of this journey,” Lavin says. “That potential for connection presented by this game is what inspired me to create Mix & Mahj and informs my approach to every event.”

REINVENTING TRADITION

Once a dusty parlor game, Lavin spins Mahjong’s storied past into a vibrant

Bespoke Mahj: Mix & Mahj hosts curated experiences like Move & Mahj outfitted with floating AquaMahj mats for in-pool play, Backyard Mahj, featuring bespoke cocktails from Vodka Salad, and Moonlit Mahj, complete with an interactive charm bar.

Mahj 101 Lesson: Lavin ensures every session honors Mahjong’s rich heritage while welcoming players with cultural context before diving into the game’s intricacies.

social force with an inviting entry point for everyone. She ensures every session honors its heritage while drawing in fresh faces. “All of my lessons and beginner events start with a brief overview of the culture and history of Mahjong from its roots in China, its adoption by the Jewish community in the U.S., and its evolution to American Mahjong, the version played at Mix & Mahj events,” she explains. “There is a lot of information to cover in a beginner event, but I feel it is critical for new players to understand that history before diving into the details of the game.”

THE GAME THAT GIVES BACK

This blend of fun and depth extends to Lavin’s Mahjong with Meaning series, where play meets purpose, including the upcoming breast cancer awareness event on Oct. 23 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Willow & Whisk in downtown Millburn.

“I am very excited for this event as it allows our community to gather and do what we love for a deeper purpose,” Lavin shares. “This is our second Mahjong with Meaning event for breast cancer awareness and our first time partnering with

the Overlook Auxiliary, a nonprofit organization that supports Overlook Medical Center.” The event will bring this beautiful community of Mahjong players together to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer, a disease that touches so many lives.

“This is my first time partnering with the Overlook Auxiliary,” she says. “A board member reached out to me about the possibility of hosting this event, and I immediately said yes. Our first Mahjong with Meaning event last year was conceived to raise funds for a local family impacted by this disease. It was incredibly special and meaningful to see the impact of that event, and I’m excited at the prospect of continuing to support

this cause with a local organization such as the Overlook Auxiliary.” Looking ahead, “I would feel incredibly fulfilled if the friendships and connections that were formed at Mix & Mahj events endure and remain with people for a long time,” Lavin says. “I also like to think that some of my students will continue the tradition and teach the next generation of players. If that is the impact of Mix & Mahj, then I will think of it as an absolute success.”

Mark your calendars for Oct. 23, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Willow & Whisk for Mahjong with Meaning, a breast cancer awareness event. Visit www.oaux.org. for more information.

Home

Team

BY EVE GOLDEN

BBRATT DOESN’T WASTE a move— on the ice or off. When he’s not on the road, he and his fiancée Nicole Laud are local regulars—The Millburn Standard, Liv Breads, and Willow & Whisk are in rotation—and they love the vibe of downtown.

“We met through mutual friends at a restaurant in my second season playing for the Devils,” Bratt says. “We clicked right away and talked all night. For a couple of years, we stayed friends—seeing each other when we could around my travel schedule and summers in Sweden. We both knew it was more but didn’t want to risk the friendship. Eventually I sharpened up. Luckily, she felt the same.”

ICE AGE

Long before Bratt’s fateful encounter with his future fiancée, the blueprint for a hockey career was set early, and his parents backed it all the way.

“If you love something, don’t waste anyone’s time by doing it halfway,” they’d tell him. “If we’re driving you to practice, give it your best.” Family time doubled as training time. He and his younger brother—four years apart—never shared teams, but they shared summers, workouts, and ice.

“We’ve always had a great relationship,” Bratt says. “I remember winning my first tournament, sitting in the car with my dad in full gear. I can’t remember a day in my life

when I didn’t think about being a hockey player.”

Bratt cut a straight line into the league. He left Sweden in 2017, barely 19, and stepped into the NHL without blinking. “I moved in 2017 for the first time,” he says. “I’d lived at my parents’ place in Sweden until then. “The NHL is the best of the best—you take the top players from everywhere and put them in one league,” Bratt says.

“Sweden’s development is great, and the national team is strong for a small country, but here, every night is the highest standard.” The league runs at a different frequency. “It’s fast, it’s physical, and there aren’t many breaks,” he continues. “The rink is

Bratt carries the puck during the Team Matthews vs. Team Hughes matchup at the 2024 Honda NHL All-Star Game in Toronto. PHOTOGRAPH BY CLAUS ANDERSEN.

smaller, everything happens at once, and the athletes are stronger and quicker than people realize. Big hits get the attention, but it’s a fast-paced game.”

POWER PLAY

Consistency isn’t accidental. “I wake up with a purpose every day,” Bratt says. “I love the process—finding one more percent. Stronger, faster, shooting better, recovering better so I can work harder. I like doing things right; I don’t see a reason to just glide through the day. Sometimes I wish I could lie on the couch and watch a show the day before a game or eat something I shouldn’t. But I follow a plan I know works for me.”

Watch Bratt closely on the ice and you see why coaches trust him. With precise edges and consistent timing, he fine-tunes; when the game speeds up, he stays laser focused. Now nine seasons into his Devils career, he’s part of the team’s backbone—initially arriving with Nico Hischier and growing alongside Jack Hughes.

Opposite page: Bratt with friend and teammate, Devils goalie Jacob Markstrom, who joined New Jersey from the Calgary Flames in 2024. This page: Bratt warms up before Game 5 of the First Round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Carolina Hurricanes in Raleigh, North Carolina.

PHOTOGRAPH BY ANDREW MACLEAN.

The classic hockey question: losing teeth? Bratt and Laud knock on wood. “Not yet,” he says. “I’m not one of the guys who’s in there fighting all the time; the game’s changed a bit. People debate it, but sometimes it protects players. It can stop guys from running around and throwing dangerous hits. It can tone things down.”

NUMBERS GAME

New players arrive at the deadline, familiar faces get moved, and the room has to reset chemistry on the fly. “Everyone knows the rules,” Bratt says. “By the deadline you might send guys out, you might add. It’s the business. It’s tough when a close friend leaves, but a lot of times they’re going to a great situation and you’re happy for them. You can’t take it personally. There are a hundred

reasons a trade happens.” Bratt’s edge comes from both the work and the study. As a kid, it was Peter Forsberg, then Patrick Kane as his game matured. Now he watches the pacesetters: “A lot of Connor McDavid, a lot of Nathan MacKinnon,” he says. “When we go on the road and I see that they’re playing, I usually try to watch their game to be influenced by certain things. It could be what they do on special teams, or just the speed they’re playing with.”

Direct by nature, Bratt keeps it simple—right down to the digits on his back. At his core, he’s still the kid in the backseat—skates tied, mind on hockey—but now he grounds the Devils with clean reads and a steady rhythm. And No. 63 isn’t merely a number; it’s the cue New Jersey is in control.

Top: Jesper Bratt and Nicole Laud at their custom Short Hills home by architect Thomas Baio. Middle: Bratt alongside No. 86 Jack Hughes (right). Bottom: Bratt and team captain No. 13 Nico Hischier celebrate a goal against the Montreal Canadiens at Prudential Center in Newark.

Leading Through Change

A conversation with Dr. Kate Diskin, superintendent of Millburn Schools.

BY EVE GOLDEN

INTERVIEW WITH DR. KATE DISKIN

You stepped into the superintendent role during a significant transition period. What inspired you to lead Millburn school district?

For the past 35 years, I’ve dedicated myself to education in various roles including teacher, assistant principal, principal, director of curriculum, assistant superintendent, and now superintendent. My focus has always been on ensuring equity, high standards, and innovation in teaching and learning. Millburn has a long-standing legacy of tradition and excellence. My inspiration comes from a deep belief in our mission: ensuring every student thrives academically while developing the skills and character to lead purposeful, meaningful lives.

The district has seen numerous retirements and new appointments. How are you ensuring continuity during this transition?

Change brings both challenge and opportunity. We’ve welcomed outstanding new leaders and paired their fresh ideas with veteran staff wisdom. This year, we hosted a leadership academy for

all principals, assistant principals, directors, supervisors, and central administration to sync our processes and protocols.

Our theme was John Gordon’s “Row the Boat” emphasizing success comes when everyone moves in the same direction with unity, energy, and purpose. Each leader, teacher, staff member, student, and family holds an oar. When we row together with shared vision and commitment, we create momentum that carries the whole district forward. We stand on traditions that shaped Millburn school district’s excellence while boldly embracing innovation that expands access, opportunity, and possibility.

What should families know about the new educators joining the district?

Families should know we’ve chosen leaders who embody both professional excellence and deep commitment to children. Our new principals and educators are already immersed in Millburn’s culture. They have been attending school events, engaging with teachers and parents, and collaborating closely with

experienced colleagues. Through mentorship, professional learning communities, and district-wide retreats, we’ve created intentional spaces for collaboration between new and veteran educators.

Are there new programs or initiatives you’re excited about this year?

We’re beginning to create a new strategic plan with community input, ensuring our vision reflects both tradition and future readiness. I’m particularly excited about rolling out elementary WIN (“What I Need”) periods and strengthening resources for student well-being with a new K-12 guidance team. We’re also continuing our work on equitable grading practices that foster a growth mindset, helping every learner develop resilience and realize their full potential.

What surprised you most about the superintendent role, and how did your background prepare you?

Balancing immediate student and staff needs while envisioning the district’s future was a priority.

My background in curriculum, instruction, and leadership prepared me to navigate complex challenges with both empathy and strategy. As the assistant superintendent in Millburn for five years, I gained deep operational knowledge while building strong community partnerships. Those experiences shaped me into a leader who understands Millburn’s unique strengths and has the vision to move the district forward—balancing tradition with progress.

Is there anything about your leadership style that might surprise people?

I find true joy in being present in our schools whether visiting kindergarten classes, attending student performances, or cheering on athletic teams. Being in schools and classrooms reminds us of our purpose: the students. I almost always have a book with me, professional or personal. Reading keeps me curious, and I often share favorite titles with staff and students. And I always have iced or hot coffee, or water with me!

Opposite page: Celebrating Service: Kate Diskin (left) congratulates Lisa Panarelli for 25 years of service with Millburn Public Schools at Hartshorn School. This page, left: Leadership Meeting: Kate Diskin presenting to the Administrative team at the annual Summer Leadership Meeting held at MUJC. Right: The Diskin Family, from left to right: Ryan, Kate, Matthew, and Joe on a family vacation in Florida.

How do you recharge outside of work?

I love reading, spending time outdoors, and going to the beach, any activities that keep me grounded and connected to nature. I also enjoy traveling with my family and exploring new places. These interests remind me of the importance of curiosity, balance, and lifelong learning. These are the qualities I encourage our students and staff to cultivate.

What advice would you give students navigating today’s educational landscape?

Stay curious, resilient, and kind. The world is changing quickly, and your ability to adapt, ask questions, and connect with others will be just as important as your grades.

How can the community connect with you and share ideas?

I’m committed to being accessible through monthly coffee chats, school events, PTO meetings, and community forums. Some of my most meaningful insights come from student liaison meetings, where I hear directly from students about their experiences and ideas. My door is always open—parents and students are essential partners in shaping our schools, and I welcome open, productive dialogue.

What would you like our community to know as we look ahead?

I’m deeply grateful for the trust the community has placed in me. Millburn is a remarkable district, not only because of its outstanding schools but because of the people—students, staff, families, and community partners—who invest their time, talents, and hearts here. Together, we are building on a proud tradition while preparing our students for the future with purpose, compassion, and excellence.

Top: Adventure Ed: Mark Friedrich and Diskin at the Summer Team Building experience with Millburn Administrators held at MHS.

Bottom: Back to School Ice Cream: Diskin and Ed Foundation Volunteers visiting the annual Back to School Ice Cream event hosted by the Ed Foundation at Taylor Park.

Set the for Fall Mood

For relaxed, cozy meals that encourage lingering, create table settings inspired by the natural beauty and warm colors of fall.

BY JENNA GALLETTI

FALL

IS THE SEASON in which we cozy up with pumpkin spice lattes, throw on our favorite scarves, and begin thinking about hosting friends and family for indoor gatherings. To set the mood for an uplifting meal at this dark and sometimes dreary time of year, focus on your table décor. Here’s how to style a fall table that’s welcoming, warm, and full of character.

START WITH THE BASICS

The beauty of fall is in the richness of its colors, so think earthy tones as your foundation. Neutral tablecloths or placemats in soft beige or off-white create a calm canvas. From there, add pops of deep orange, mustard yellow, and burgundy through napkins, place mats, or a table runner. Don’t be afraid to mix in some dark greens—they bring a chic, moody vibe that really feels like the season.

THINK BEYOND TRADITIONAL

Miniature pumpkins? Cute, sure. But let’s be honest, they’re everywhere. To add that fall feeling but with a twist of elegance, try including white miniature pumpkins in your table décor. Create a rustic centerpiece with freshly picked apples and small squash, or a playful mix of dried florals that convey ‘harvest’ without the cliché. If space allows, consider running dried branches or

leaves along the length of your table, through its center.

TEXTURE IS KEY

When it comes to fall table styling, texture is just as important as color. We’re talking rich, cozy touches like linen napkins, woven placemats, or even a faux fur throw casually draped over a chair. Mix in ceramic, wood, and copper pieces to add more texture and depth, because nothing says autumn like a table that feels as rich as a creamy hot chocolate. It’s all about creating a vibe that makes your guests want to linger a little longer, whether for another glass of wine or a second round of dessert.

CHOOSE SOFT LIGHTING

In addition to dimmable electric lighting, candles are key to creating a cozy vibe. Now is the time to dig out candlesticks that might feel too formal (or require too much maintenance) for use at other times of year. Whether made of brass, silver, metal or glass, candlesticks add texture and elegance to your table. Sprinkle in your favorite votive candleholders for additional interest. Or choose a series of short, stocky candles—those wrapped in birch bark are easy to find online and add a touch of nature to your table. Regardless of size or shape, warm, flickering light is where it’s at for fall meals.

FINISHING TOUCHES

It’s the little details that turn a table from ‘nice’ to ‘unforgettable.’ Personalized place cards? Instant points for making your guests feel special. You can keep it simple with sprigs of rosemary and handwritten names or get creative with fall favors—think mini bottles of apple cider or tiny bags of caramel popcorn. Who wouldn’t love a festive treat? Fall feasts are also the perfect time to bring out inherited dishes, cutlery or serving pieces that remind you of loved ones, or antiques that you don’t often use because they require handwashing. They’ll spark conversation and add a glow to your table.

Your fall dining décor should reflect the season: warm, inviting, and full of little details that bring people together. So go ahead, get creative with your style, because the best gatherings are those where everyone feels right at home. Here’s to a fall full of delicious food, great company, and a table that creates the perfect setting for both.

Jenna Galletti is a photographer, marketer and creative producer who splits her time between New York and Boston. She finds endless inspiration through the energy of urban life. Visit her online at www.jennagalletti. com and follow her on Instagram @ jennagalletti.

RALLY FOR TENNIS

WE’RE LILY SCHONBRAUN and Avery Leibowitz, current juniors in high school—Lily at Newark Academy and Avery at Millburn. We both grew up in Short Hills and have always loved playing tennis, which has become a central part of our lives. We’ve been fortunate to play at local clubs and clinics throughout our community, experiences that have helped shape who we are today.

Four years ago, we became involved with Rally for Tennis, an organization that gives back to underserved children. The local chapter, Greater Newark Tennis & Education (GNTE), is a nonprofit that brings tennis and educational opportunities to Newark families free of charge. We serve as the respective captains for our schools.

On Aug.14th, we held our annual event at Centercourt in Chatham, New Jersey, hosting nearly 150 children and their parents from the greater Newark community. The event featured a 90-minute tennis clinic, matches, games, and a fun dinner. Together with our teammates and families, we raised $100,000 for GNTE.

We’re grateful to support a cause we’re so passionate about.

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Lily Schonbraun (left) and Avery Leibowitz