Still looking for that special dentist who will create your best smile?
Dr. Deegan is a highly respected board-certified prosthodontist with a talent for enhancing smiles and restoring oral function. Her custom designed veneers, crowns, dentures and implant prosthetics are a culmination of years of experience and her passion for providing excellent care. Her small, private practice is the perfect environment for the personal experience you’re looking for. You won’t be a number on the bottom line of a corporation.
Features
Do You Understand Prostate Cancer?
If you’re a man—or have a man in your life—it time to clear out the cobwebs in your knowledge this common, potentially deadly disease.
Floating On Grass 16
A Montclair family achieves their vision of that knows its place, achieves an effect and honors the spirit of their home.
Living Twice As Large
22
The once steep, mostly unusable backyard of a Montclair Tudor is now an inviting, multi-tier recreational haven that has doubled the home’s living-space footprint.
Departments
Morris/Essex Buzz 8
Our guide to new ideas, tips, trends and things we love in the counties.
Friends & Neighbors 10
For Julie Gould of Morris Plains and Beth Kelly of Montclair, taking on the care of a beloved local landmark has been a journey of friendship, community and a bit of magic.
Style Watch 11
Bouclé is a timeless texture that exudes elegance from head to toe.
Front 12
seafoam green cool, coastal vibe room.
Escapes 26
school’s out for the summer, your children deserve a junket—especially one that you can enjoy.
Tastes 28
Whether hot or cold, these soups bring garden-fresh flavor—and they’re nutritious too.
Bar Tab 32
When the weather warms, cool off with a refreshing blue lagoon cocktail.
Restaurant Review 46
Montclair’s El Gordo serves up satisfying South American cuisine—and a surprise or two.
Gatherings 55
Morris and Essex residents always show up to support their neighbors.
A Morris/Essex Moment 56
A photographer captures a newly engaged couple in an instance of bliss.
ON THE COVER
A Montclair pool captures the spirit of the property and home. Photo by Heather Knapp.
DR. DAVID CAGGIANO COMBINES HIS BACKGROUND IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING WITH HIS EXTENSIVE TRAINING IN DENTISTRY to create innovative solutions for the toughest of orthodontic situations. “Engineering each smile is a unique process with many options,” he says.
As the Author of A Parent’s Guide to Understanding Orthodontics: How to Confidently Choose the Best Orthodontist for your Family and Perfectly Clear: Everything You Need to Know About Invisalign, Dr. Caggiano understands the importance of feeling confident that you are getting the best treatment possible to help create your perfect smile.
Staying at the forefront of orthodontic technology is how Dr. Caggiano keeps his promise to offer his patients the most effective orthodontic solutions. He was one of the first orthodontists in New Jersey to use
digital impression scanners and 3D printers, allowing for impression free treatment. Dr. Caggiano provides treatment using the latest techniques, including self-ligating braces, Indirect Bonding and accelerated Invisalign, just to name a few.
“Your smile is the first thing people notice about you, and patients are always complementing us on how thorough our exam process is,” he says. Nominated for many accolades, Dr. Caggino is one of the area’s leading orthodontists. The practice receives rave reviews for its Caggiano Smile Assessment, which includes a complimentary exam, digital x-rays and consultation for new patients. Dr. Caggiano takes pride in delivering quality orthodontic treatment with great customer service, that’s why he is confident and has trade-marked, “You’ll Love the Way We Make You Smile!”
Caggiano Orthodontics
Bag Lover?
‘My Own Backyard’
It was the kind of request we like to capture—not to make people sound unreasonable, but to reveal them as, well, people. A sizable and underused Montclair backyard beckoned for a swimming pool, and the homeowners finally decided to install one during the pandemic. But the man of the house had a specific vision: He asked that the new pool be placed off to the side, leaving open grass in the middle. It was a lofty goal because of a grading issue that caused frequent flooding.
But, as you’ll read starting on page 16, Rick Zimmer, principal landscape architect at Haskell’s Tapestry Landscape Architecture and Scenic Landscaping, kept his cool. Not only did he and the team ensure that the grass “would stay very dry,” they built the pool with details that made it look “almost like a refined reflecting pool.”
My point in opening this Summer Issue by mentioning the highly ambitious, almost improbable plan? Simply that many with a vision can achieve a backyard that feels like a dream. The amenities this issue’s photographs reveal—gorgeous pools, firepits, outdoor kitchens, etc.—may look flawlessly cool, but it takes effort, and sometimes adjustments, to pull them together.
Take the challenge of varied elevation. For the Montclair backyard on page 22, a sloping yard required ingenuity from Rich Cording Sr. and the team at CLC Landscape Design in Ringwood. They went beyond simply removing overgrowth and creating better drainage to a complete remodel with an expanded patio, layers of retaining walls, a pool and a fire feature. “They were truly invested in the outcome throughout,” homeowner Vicki Province says of the firm’s work. “To them, each brick and every plant has a purpose.”
Of course, every issue of MORRIS & ESSEX features topics beyond its official “theme,” and this one’s no exception. Where can you find tips on Father’s Day experiences for your particular type of dad? See page 8. What are five kid-friendly destinations for nearby vacation travel? Page 26. And where, this side of Lima, can you order a traditional Peruvian stew with braised beef, rice, beans, veggies and an aromatic cilantro sauce? Page 46.
If anything ties our miscellany together, maybe it’s our desire to live fully in the much-blessed counties that are our homes. So, in praise of home, let’s cue Dorothy of The Wizard of Oz. “If I ever go looking for my heart’s desire again,” she said, “I won’t look any further than my own backyard.”
Enjoy summer—and Happy Father’s Day to all dads!
Rita Guarna Editor in Chief rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com
Morris &Essex
Editor in Chief RITA GUARNA
Creative Director
STEPHEN M. VITARBO
Senior Associate Editor
DARIUS AMOS
Assistant Editor
KIRSTEN MEEHAN
Contributing Editors
PAUL RANCE JR.
DONNA ROLANDO
NAYDA RONDON
Contributing Photographer
FRONT DOOR PHOTOGRAPHY
HEATHER KNAPP
PRODUCTION
Production Manager FERN E. MESHULAM
Production Artist CHRIS FERRANTE
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Morris & Essex Magazine (Volume 23 Issue 3 June/July 2025) (ISSN# 3067-0888 USPS 25840) is published bimonthly (Feb/Mar, April/May, June/July, Sept, Oct/Nov, Dec/ Jan) by Wainscot Media, One Maynard Dr., Ste 2104, Park Ridge, NJ 07656. Periodicals postage pending at Mahwah, NJ, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Wainscot Media, One Maynard Dr., Ste 2104, Park Ridge, NJ 07656.
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The Miller Center For Dental Excellence
Serving the Metropolitan area since 1990 the dentists at The Miller Center For Dental Excellence take the practice’s name to heart. Founder, Dr. R. Craig Miller, a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry, a Fellow of The International Congress of Oral Implantologists, and a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine, is highly trained in implantology, cosmetic dentistry and dental sleep medicine.
Morris & Essex Buzz
OUR GUIDE TO NEW IDEAS, TIPS, TRENDS AND THINGS WE LOVE IN OUR COUNTIES.
GO FOURTH
Does it get any better—or easier—than celebrating Independence July 4? It’s time to grab some friends, eat hot dogs, hear great in a fantastic fireworks display. A few options:
• Livingston’s July 4 Celebration. Every year the town of Livingston transforms the Memorial Oval into an all-day party with food entertainment, live music and fireworks in the evening. Find out livingstonnj.org.
A DAY DAD DESERVES
It’s in the nature of a father’s role to be taken for granted from time to time, but Sunday, June 15, isn’t such a time. That’s Father’s Day, and if you just can’t stand to buy another necktie, here are some other ideas for showing Dad how much he means to you—depending on his particular bent:
• For the golfer… Treat Dad to 18 holes at Berkshire Valley Golf Course (28 Cozy Lake Rd., Oak Ridge, 973.208.0018), known for its challenging greens and sweeping, scenic landscapes. Take him out for dinner afterward at Wharton’s Taphouse 15 (75 Rte. 15, Wharton, 862.437.1300; taphouse15.com), which boasts an international menu, local craft beers and extensive cocktail and wine options.
• For the shutterbug… Grab your camera and head over to Eagle Rock Reservation in West Orange. This park has picturesque cliffs and incredible views of the New York City skyline, all perfect for setting up the perfect shot. Wind down the day with a meal at the Highlawn (1 Crest Dr., West Orange, 973.731.3463; highlawn.com), where the only thing better than the views is the food. (Reservations required, so make sure you call ahead!)
• For the spirits aficionado… All Points West Distillery in Newark (73 Tichenor St., Newark, 646.251.3176; allpointswestdistillery.com) creates whiskey, gin and vodka in addition to a historic NY/NJ-harbor style of rum. It opens its door for tours and tastings on Saturdays and select Sundays, creating the perfect afternoon for a man with a taste for good spirits. Afterward, grab a sip and a bite at nearby Burke’s Tavern (150 Lafayette St., Newark, 973.433.9883), which offers sandwiches, woodfire pizza and fresh pasta.
• For the history buff… Visit the Morris County Historical Society’s Acorn Hall (68 Morris Ave., Morristown, 973.267.3465; morriscountyhistory. org), a Victorian Italianate mansion built in the 1850s and filled with local history exhibits, which is open for tours every Sunday. For a lesson outdoors, walk around Morristown, which is filled with landmarks dating back to the Revolution, and then grab dinner at the Committed Pig (2 W. Park Pl., Morristown, 862.260.9292, thecommittedpig.com).
• Florham Park’s Fourth of July Celebration. Florham Park’s celebration kicks off with a parade in the afternoon and stretches long into the evening. Enjoy local musicians, lots of food and drinks and fireworks. For more information, see the organizer’s Facebook page, facebook.com/fpjuly4th/.
• Brookdale Park’s Fireworks Show. Spread a blanket on the at this Bloomfield park and enjoy a live band and, of course, fireworks. For more, head over to brookdalepark.org.
• Denville’s July 4 Celebration. Dash over to Denville for an evening live music and fireworks to celebrate Independence Day. The band until the moment the fireworks begin. Learn more at denvillenj.gov.
PUPPY LOVE
Dog: Denver, 11-month-old English
Owner: Kat Steele of Cedar Knolls
Denver was born in Vernon, one of a perfectly split litter—four boys and four girls. By the time he was nine weeks old, he weighed 15 pounds and was already giving his new human “mom,” Kat, “attitude.” She says he’s been giving her the “side eye” since the day they met. (Could it be her name?)
Denver is filled with energy and loves nothing more than making friends. He goes out of his way to be polite to other dogs, giving each a warm hello when they’re introduced, but then heads straight over to greet that dog’s person. “He’s obsessed with people,” says Kat. Denver also lives up to his breed’s name—he can play fetch for hours and will retrieve any ball that’s thrown his way. Other favorite activities include running in the yard, blowing bubbles in his water bowl and watching TV with his owner. “He gets very invested,” Kat says.
Want to see your pet in an upcoming issue of MORRIS & ESSEX? Email a brief description to Editor Rita Guarna at rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com.
WE ALL SCREAM FOR…
…ice cream, of course. It’s the perfect season to celebrate it, and there’s more to life than plain vanilla. When you visit any of these local ice scream shops, don’t miss out on their signature specialty flavors:
—Applegate Farm. The sundaes and shakes at this Upper Montclair spot are famous for a good reason. Try a dolce de leche shake with extra-sweet caramel, or a frozen campfire sundae with marshmallows and graham-cracker ice cream.
• 616 Grove St., Upper Montclair, 973.744.5900; applegatefarm.com
—Denville Dairy. Often at the top of “Best of the State” lists, this place lets you order custom ice cream cakes. A can’t-miss flavor? Vanilla crunch swirl, with ribbons of fudge throughout.
—Kubo Coffee and Creamery. At this Nutley shop you can also grab boba tea or Japanese mochi. The soft serve flavors here lean toward
the subtle and elegant—try the matcha or Earl Grey options.
• 226 Franklin Ave., Nutley, 973.320.2025; kubocoffeecreamery.com
—Lake Hiawatha Dairy. This local staple rolls out new flavors and alternates menu items constantly, depending on what’s popular. What’s always popular? Chocolate Nutella chunk.
• Lake Hiawatha Dairy, 79 N. Beverwyck Rd., Lake Hiawatha, 973.316.6686; dairylakehiawatha.com
—South Street Creamery. Every flavor at this oldest ice-cream shop in Morristown is sure to please, but Purple Cow Tracks, with a black raspberry base, fudge and chocolate chunk pieces, is something special.
• South Street Creamery, 146–148 South St., Morristown, 973.267.8887; southstreetcreamery.com
CULINARY CORNER
Keep date night fresh with these two newly opened eateries:
STEAK, WELL DONE
With celebrated locations in Ridgewood, Summit and Jersey City, the Felina name is now expanding into South Orange with Felina Steak. The restaurant offers a contemporary twist on Italian-American cuisine, top-notch hospitality and an impressive list of craft cocktails. And you needn’t limit yourself to dinner—there’s both a lunch and a brunch menu, Tuesday through Sunday.
• Felina Steak, 101 S. Orange Ave., South Orange, 973.996.8969; felinasteak.com
MÁS, POR FAVOR
For relaxed vibes, authentic flavors and an array of agave- and sugar cane-based spirits, try Verona’s Nómada. This Mexican-cuisine spot takes inspiration from what it calls “the relaxed coastal aesthetics of modern-day Tulum with the lavish eccentricities of Acapulco in the ’80s.” For instance, try one of six del icious taco options or pollo con mole for dinner and pair it with a mezcal or tequila cocktail (or order a tasting flight).
COOKOUT CONFIDENTIAL
’Tis the season for barbecues and backyard entertaining. Consider taking your next outdoor party to the next level with these ideas:
• Brew local. Good, cold beer is essential to an outdoor get-together, and nothing will elevate your spread like brews from local craft breweries. Try Fort Nonsense Brewing Company (220 Franklin Rd., Randolph, fortnonsensebrewing.com) for porters and lagers; Diamond Spring Brewing Company (50 Broadway, Denville, diamondspringbrewing. com) for stouts and fruit-forward IPAs; Magnify Brewing (1275 Bloomfield Ave., Fairfield, magnifybrewing.com) for imperial IPAs; or Montclair Brewery (101 Walnut St., Montclair, montclairbrewery.com) for stouts and sours.
• Don’t skimp on sides. You can’t go wrong with classics like potato salad or grilled corn, but there are other options too. Riff off the familiar and put together a baked-potato bar with a wide array of toppings. Add grilled watermelon to the menu (brush it with a mixture of honey and lime and serve sprinkled with cilantro). Or add a twist and grill thin slices of zucchini topped with pesto.
• Choose a theme. Selecting a theme for any gathering can add a touch of whimsy or serve as an icebreaker if you’re gathering people who don’t know each other well. It can be as simple as asking people to wear a favorite sports jersey, a Hawaiian shirt or a festive hat—or planning your menu to match a favorite movie or international cuisine.
• Embrace game day. Odds are that you have a Kan Jam (a lawn game played with Frisbees) set tucked somewhere in your garage. If you want more options for great lawn games, look for ladder ball—played by tossing a bola (two weighted balls connected by a thin cord) onto a ladder—or show off the skills you picked up playing pickleball with PaddleSmash, which requires that you spike small Wiffle balls against a trampoline to the other player. Catering to a younger crowd? Giant games of Connect Four and Jenga are always a hit.
…the Glen Ridge 7th and 8th Grade History Club Academic Team, which qualified for the History Bowl national championships, scheduled for May 22–26 in Orlando, Florida. The team clinched its spot in the nationals with its performance at January’s state championship in Ridgewood. A History Bowl is a team-based quiz competition that tests knowledge of history from all eras and parts of the world. History teacher David Majewski served as club advisor throughout the process.
AIRPORT ARTISTRY
Some 15 million people annually visit Newark Liberty Airport’s Terminal A, and they’re all treated to NJ-themed art. For three years now, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and Munich Airport NJ, the company that runs the terminal, have showcased the work of local artists on digital screens. Of the 20 artists included in 2025, eight are from Morris and Essex counties: Matilda Forsberg, Matt Gosser, David James, Cynthia Vaughn as well as the following:
• Jeremy Ackman, of West Orange, presents a scene from a busy day on the Jersey Shore. His work strives to “capture the essence of everyday moments and environments.”
• With her mixed-media piece “Rhythms and Roots,” Simone Anthony-Brown of Maplewood says she “celebrates cultural heritage and a call for a more equitable future.”
• Dennis Maida of Lincoln Park is a veteran and, in his photograph “Sand and Sky,” captures a moment of stillness with structures against the water.
• Born and raised in Newark, Maite Rodriguez displays in the painting “Portugal Day Festival” one facet of our state’s immigrant heritage.
FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS
Faith, Trust And Pixie Dust
For Julie Gould of Morris Plains and Beth Kelly of Montclair, taking on the care of a beloved local landmark has been a journey of friendship, community and a bit of magic.
Tucked into Millburn’s South Mountain Reservation is a half-mile, looping trail. If you ask local children, it’s inhabited by fairies. Tucked along it are dozens of intricate miniature houses, all of them created with biodegradable materials, where those “fairies” live.
The story of the South Mountain Reservation Fairy Trail, as it’s called, is the tale of three women. Millburn artist Therese Ojibway founded it in 2011. Wanting a place her adult son with autism could explore, she began placing handmade miniature houses along the trail for him to discover. Others discovered them too, and the South Mountain Reservation made the Fairy Trail an official part of the park. Then, in 2022, Ojibway moved out of state.
Enter Julie Gould and Beth Kelly. At first glance, they have little in common. Gould, 41, lives in Morris Plains and owns a brand strategy consulting company. Montclair resident Kelly, 60, is an assistant principal in an East Orange school. Gould is married and has two young sons; Kelly, unmarried, has two adopted children, now grown, and is both a grandmother and a great-grandmother. Before Dennis Percher, chair of the South Mountain Reservation’s board of trustees, introduced them, they had never met. Today they’re united in the care and keeping of the Fairy Trail, which now boasts over 100 fairy houses, all of them created and donated by volunteers. They remain in contact with Ojibway.
How did you each get involved with the trail?
GOULD: I discovered it during the pandemic. I had two small children and was looking for some place outside to take them. Two years later, I saw that the trail was holding a workshop on making fairy houses, so I went. I was sitting there crafting, and someone from the conservatory came up to me and asked, “What do you think of all this?” I told him I thought it was magical, and he said, “OK, do you know anyone who wants to be in charge
of it?” He told me that if no one took this on they were just going to let it go back to the earth. I couldn’t let that happen.
KELLY: I’ve been an urban school administrator for years, and I always want to get the kids out into nature. That’s how I came across the Fairy Trail—I’ve planned field trips there. In 2022, I was talking to Dennis about that, and he told me the person running it was leaving. He asked if I would take it on, and I told him, “No way.” A week later, he called back and said, “What if there were two of you?” I said I would give that a try.
How did you learn to work together?
KELLY: Somehow we clicked right away. It was almost like a marriage—you move in together and figure out who takes out the trash and who vacuums. Last weekend, I had a tough day. I called Julie, we talked and I got off the phone feeling like myself again. We never have to ask—if one person’s load is too heavy, the other steps in to help.
A challenge?
GOULD: Sometimes we’re visited by “trolls,” as we call them. Our first year, someone came in and destroyed 20 houses two weeks before we opened for the season. It was awful. We decided to reach out to the public and see if anyone wanted to help us replace the houses. The response was incredible—we were flooded with interest. We guided that excitement with building guidelines, and now we have more than 100 houses back on the trail.
A rewarding moment?
KELLY: Last year I brought some of my first-graders here. They’re all from urban areas, and one little boy didn’t even want to get off the bus at first. A half hour later, he was asking his teacher when the class could come back.
GOULD: A high school girl, Audrey Noguera, was introduced to the reservation with her father through the Fairy Trail. She wrote and published her own children’s book about it, Find Your Forest She came and read it to the kids at our opening-day event last year. It was a cool, full-circle moment. Your favorite part of the trail?
KELLY: Interacting with children here. I was cleaning up the other day and saw three deer on the trail, and I told some guests, “You know, fairies ride the deer.” The kids started yelling, “I see them, I see them!” You watch their imaginations work.
GOULD: The dedication of our artist volunteers. It’s a very selfless thing to do, to pour your heart into something and put it out in nature for others to enjoy, and to know that, with the elements, it’ll go back to the earth and something new will replace it.
—Kirsten Meehan
Veronica Beard Tamara Vest veronicabeard.com
Beautiful In Bouclé
This timeless texture exudes elegance from head to toe.
Knocbel Slim Antique Entry Console Table with Drawers amazon.com
Maxine Round
Charleston Two-Door Accent Chest Raymour
Flanigan, East Hanover,
THE WATER’S FINE
Water/aqua aerobics for 10 or more weeks at a time can trim waist size and aid weight loss, finds a pooled data analysis of available evidence. It’s particularly effective in overweight women and people over the age of 45.
—BMJ Open
HEALTH NEWS
STAY ACTIVE TO PROMOTE GUT HEALTH
Participating in 150 to 270 minutes of moderate- to highintensity exercise per week for at least six weeks—particularly if you combine aerobic exercise with resistance training—has been shown to have a positive effect on gut microbiota, according to a systematic review of data.
FRUIT, FIBER LINKED TO LOWER RISK OF TINNITUS
Increased consumption of fruit, dietary products and caffeine may be associated reduced risk of tinnitus, or ringing in ears, suggests an analysis of available evidence. Researchers stress, however, that their findings can’t establish a direct relationship and should be interpreted carefully. They note that possible reasons may involve the protective effects of the foods on blood vessels and nerves, as well as their antiinflammatory and antioxidant properties. Tinnitus affects approximately 14 percent adults worldwide.
—Nutrients
CAROTID ARTERY ULTRASOUND CAN LOWER STROKE RISK
Using ultrasound during surgery to unblock carotid arteries is an effective way to significantly reduce the risk of stroke and death, according to a recent trial. Researchers note that the technique has the potential to improve care for patients with carotid disease.
—The BMJ
COULD SHINGLES VACCINE LOWER DEMENTIA RISK?
Researchers analyzing the health records of Welsh older adults discovered that those who received the shingles vaccine were 20 percent less likely to develop dementia over the next seven years than those who did not receive the vaccine. These findings support the theory that viruses that affect the nervous system can increase the risk of dementia.
—Nature
INSOMNIA HELP: RESISTANCE EXERCISE
Resistance or muscle strengthening exercise, using weights or the body itself, may be the best type of exercise for tackling insomnia in older age, suggests a pooled data analysis of available research. Sleep quality tends to decline with age, with up to one in five older adults experiencing insomnia.
—Family Medicine and Community Health
PARKINSON’S ON THE
By 2050, 25.2 million with Parkinson’s worldwide—a increase from largely due aging, suggests published —Compiled Paul Rance
Do You Understand Prostate Cancer?
IF YOU’RE A MAN—OR HAVE A MAN IN YOUR LIFE— IT MAY BE TIME TO CLEAR OUT THE COBWEBS IN YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF THIS COMMON, POTENTIALLY DEADLY DISEASE.
Sandip Prasad, M.D., Vice Chair of Urology, Morristown Medical Center
Quick, pop quiz—What are the four most common types of cancer worldwide? According to the World Health Organization, they’re breast, lung, colon-and-rectum and prostate. Prostate cancer is so widespread, in fact, that one in every eight men will be diagnosed with it in his lifetime, per the American Cancer Society (ACS).
“Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed non-skin cancer in American men,” says Sandip M. Prasad, M.D., a urologist and both the surgical director of genitourinary oncology and the vice chair of urology at Morristown Medical Center. “Upwards of 313,000 men will be diagnosed in 2025. It is critically important for men to see their doctors to screen for prostate cancer and understand if they’re at risk. The process is about more than just identifying cancer. It’s also an opportunity for men to regularly check in with their physicians about other men’s health issues.”
It is perhaps men’s hesitancy to discuss their health—and ask questions— that has helped to allow misconceptions about prostate cancer to flourish. To mark Men’s Health Month in June, MORRIS & ESSEX sat down with Dr. Prasad to clear up a few of them:
• “It’s an old man’s disease.”
Though your chances of getting prostate cancer increase as you get older, it’s not unheard of—or even terribly uncommon—for it to be diagnosed in early middle age. “Forty percent of prostate cancer diagnoses in the United States are in men under 65,” says Dr. Prasad. “As men’s life expectancy improves, early diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer becomes more and more important.” (Life expectancy did dip briefly in the era of the pandemic, but it’s rising again.)
National guidelines backed by the ACS suggest that men start screening at age 50. Other risk factors, such as a family history of the disease, bump it down to 45, or even 40. “I believe that we should continue to screen men over age 70 who are in good health, as they would also benefit from screening and early detection of an aggressive cancer,” adds the doctor. If something looks “off,” keeping a close eye on it is imperative.
“There is also a narrative that prostate cancer is always slow-growing, and that men will die with the disease rather than because of it,” says Dr. Prasad. “That’s misleading. While many prostate cancers are slow-growing and can be observed with active surveillance, there is a wide range of behavior of the disease. Screening is critical.”
Such screening involves both a physical exam by a doctor and a blood test that’s looking for prostate-specific antigen, or PSA. “The blood test is the key initial test,” says Dr. Prasad. “I do believe there is still value for the prostate exam, but this is not necessary in all cases.” Once a baseline PSA is known, clinicians should offer screening every two to four years. It’s also important to know that someone can have a high PSA reading for reasons other than prostate cancer—including an infection or an enlarged prostate. However, any change in PSA is a good reason for a specialist to take a closer look.
• “If I have no family history, I’m safe.”
As with many diseases, your chances of developing prostate cancer go up if others in your family, such as a father, uncle or grandfather, have also been diagnosed with it. When tracking family history, it’s also important to look beyond just prostate cancer. To understand your risk factors, check any history of “adenocarcinomas”—that is, cancers that start in the glands that line your organs, such as breast, esophagus, lung and colon or rectum. In addition, the doctor flags certain gene mutations like BRCA (“the breast cancer gene”) as increasing risk. (Tests can identify these gene mutations.) But there’s no assurance that a lack of family history clears you of risk. “Most men who develop prostate cancer have no prior family history of the disease,” says Dr. Prasad. This means, he says, that all men in good health in the target age group should undergo prostatecancer screening.
Family history is not the only risk factor considered. “Men of African and Caribbean descent are more likely to have prostate cancer and more likely to have aggressive prostate cancer,” says the doctor. For this reason, it’s advised that Black men start screening for the disease earlier than others.
• “If I have no symptoms, I don’t need to worry.”
This is inaccurate. “Early-stage, organ-confined prostate cancer does not generally have symptoms,” says Dr. Prasad. “Occasionally we see this disease cause blood in the urine or semen, urinary frequency, difficulty voiding or a change of nighttime urinary frequency.” Symptoms tend to manifest when the cancer has already metastasized, or spread from the prostate to other parts of the body. Once that happens, a full cure becomes more difficult. “More advanced prostate cancer can be associated with pain in the bones and weakness,” says the doctor. “Fortunately, most cases of prostate cancer are detected at earlier stages,” he says.
Adds Dr. Prasad: “Today’s therapies are very effective at curing prostate cancer while it is still confined.”
• “Treatments are always extremely invasive.”
“Prostate-cancer treatment continues to evolve rapidly to achieve improved cure rates while minimizing the side effects of treatments,” says Dr. Prasad. Now, even when the prostate needs to be totally removed, the procedure can be much less invasive than it used to be. “Surgical treatments have improved with the adoption of robotic technology,” adds the doctor. “Many men who undergo surgery will be home the same day, either with small keyhole incisions or even occasionally with no incisions at all. Radiation for prostate cancer has also improved. Some men can complete their entire course of radiation treatment within one week.”
FLOATING ON GRASS
A MONTCLAIR FAMILY ACHIEVES THEIR VISION OF A POOL THAT KNOWS ITS PLACE, ACHIEVES AN EFFECT AND HONORS THE SPIRIT OF THEIR HOME.
Design by Scenic Landscaping with Tapestry Landscape Architecture and Tranquility Pools
Photography by Heather Knapp
Text by Donna Rolando
Being stuck at home, as most of America was during COVID, has one connotation. Being stuck at home with a built-in pool and a family-friendly backyard has quite another.
“I think, like everybody else, we just wanted a pool,” recalls homeowner Stacey. She’s discussing what motivated her and her husband, Rick, back in 2020, to undertake an outdoor redesign of
Understated elegance was the goal for this Montclair colonial’s built-in pool, in harmony with its classic setting.
Besides green giants for privacy, landscaping includes white hydrangeas and colorful, seasonal flowers, which seem to pop against the green of the ample lawn.
their roughly one-acre lot in Montclair.
“The property had a very large yard, and it was just asking for a pool,” she says. “We also found that we needed to update the landscaping because it had overgrown a bit. We were just trying to freshen everything up.”
Former Ridgewood residents, she, Rick and their two children had recently “upsized” to this five-bedroom, classic brick estate and wanted some of the amenities that had graced their former home.
Major drainage issues could have thwarted their plans, but Rick Zimmer, principal landscape architect at Haskell’s Tapestry Landscape Architecture and Scenic Landscaping, was confident that even the “swamp,” as Stacey called it, could become an entertainment zone. With the completion of the project in 2022, extensive drainage and grading turned their underutilized yard into a space where Stacey says even spurof-the-moment entertaining is easy.
“My husband had a very specific vision that he didn’t want to have the pool in the middle of the yard,” she recalls. Putting the pool off to the side allowed for uninterrupted lawn space— and that’s where the drainage comes in.
“It took a lot of subsurface-type drainage to ensure that these nice, level lawn areas would stay very dry,” Zimmer recalls. As for grading, wide lawn stairs reflective of an old estate and a four-foot-tall retaining wall—masked by landscaping—get the job done, along with existing terraces.
Another mission was to reflect the elegance of the early1900s colonial and its materials—such as bluestone—in the landscaping. The 18-foot-by-42-foot gunite pool built by Tranquility Pools (under the Scenic Landscaping umbrella), for instance, is surrounded by bluestone coping, an alternative to a wraparound patio, maximizing the lawn. Additionally, the choice of a deep blue plaster for the pool magnifies the effect of a water feature. In harmony with its setting, “it looks almost
This page: With water woes a thing of the past, the landscaping complements its regal surroundings.
Opposite page: Visible from both the sunroom and the pool, this reimagined garden with its focal-point urn was a pleasant surprise for homeowner Stacey.
like a refined reflecting pool,” according to Zimmer.
The result of limiting hardscape and maximizing green space is a floating effect for both the pool and the patios, where lounge chairs beckon. “We wanted the pool to have a cleanness to it—a sort of understated elegance,” says Zimmer. Because pools epitomize relaxation, this one also features a spa, a sun shelf and enough shallow water for everyone to enjoy, he adds. Stacey marvels at how Zimmer and crew gained the space for hubby’s pool vision by taming a formerly overgrown area of their yard.
This property is not only about summer beauty. “We created a defined space or outdoor room for the pool that you enter through some low hedges,” says Zimmer. “Even during the winter months, while the pool’s covered, it still gives you a beautiful view of the yard.” In addition, for a family that loves to entertain, an upgraded bluestone patio—softened by movable planters—accommodates a
simple outdoor kitchen and firepit area for gatherings.
Most of the former yard provided a clean slate, with only a patio, terraces and lawn existing, but landscapers worked hard to soften the view of a detached garage, which although charming in brick made a poor focal point. As Zimmer explains, ornamental trees and other landscape “keep your eye instead on the formal lawn area.”
Landscaping also helped cross shade off the family’s wish list, with a grouping of linden trees, instead of a structure, serving as sun cover, Zimmer explains.
While Stacey applauds the entire project, her favorite spot was unexpected. Outside her sunroom windows, she can now savor what resembles “an English garden” and “sit out there, where you couldn’t before, because it was just mud.”
She commends Zimmer and his team for their new, familyfriendly outdoor space. “We always had the land,” she says, “but it was underutilized, so it’s almost like he grew the yard.”
LIVING TWICE AS LARGE
The once steep, mostly unusable backyard of a Montclair Tudor is now an inviting, multi-tier recreational haven that has doubled the home’s living-space footprint.
Design by Rich Cording Sr., CLC Landscape Design
Photography by Front Door Photography Text by Nayda Rondon
Contemplating the façade of a tasteful Tudor in Montclair, one might imagine a backyard in similar style: a level lawn with orderly rows of flower beds and ornamental bushes. Instead, when Scott and Vicki Province moved into their 3,700-square-foot home on a half-acre lot in 2012, they encountered a highly sloped backyard overrun by intrusive plant life.
At first they tried braving the backyard elements. But by 2020 they’d surrendered. “It was us versus the mud, and the mud won,” says Vicki. “There was also so much overgrown vegetation that it encroached upon a large portion of our yard, making our covered porch dark, damp and uninviting.”
Nevertheless, the homeowners were determined to turn the space into a beautiful, usable area. Referred by a previous client, they contacted licensed landscape architect Rich Cording Sr. and his team at Ringwoodbased CLC Landscape Design. Initially, they weren’t planning anything major. But then the CLC team opened their eyes to expansive possibilities.
“Our plans drastically changed from simply removing overgrowth and creating some drainage to a complete remodel: expanding the patio, creating several layers of retaining walls, and adding a pool and a fire element,” Scott explains. “We also pushed our yard back closer to our back property line. We
The pool area behind a Montclair Tudor home is particularly appealing at night. Colored lights play upon the water, inviting a relaxing dip surrounded by flowers in bloom. The heated pool features bluestone coping around the perimeter, an automatic cover and remote-controlled LED lights that change color at the homeowners’ preference.
now have an inviting outdoor entertaining space, a cozy place to gather around the fire, a pool with plenty of seating options, a larger yard for the kids to play in and a variety of plantings.”
The CLC team approached the tricky terrain with troubleshooting assurance. “What made this project unusual was that there were elevation changes of more than 10 feet from the back of the house to the back of the property,” says Cording Sr. “Having such a challenging site required strategic designing to make sure the walls weren’t overwhelming. The selection of wall material was critical so that all of the outdoor living spaces felt inviting and as if the property has always looked the way it does now.”
Cording Sr. and one of CLC’s licensed landscape architects developed a detailed landscape design consisting of a series of multiple-level walls to create attractive, serviceable enclaves within the steep landscape. Apart from the pre-existing two-car garage and the roof over the patio section, everything was constructed from scratch. At house level, the main tier was paved and extended with the addition of a custom firepit area, sitting enclaves and a retaining wall with steps to the second level, which holds the 18-feet-by-38-feet deluxe, vinyl pool from Wayne-based the Pool Boss and lounging sections, while the third and furthest from the house is an extended yard where the kids play.
Chosen for their sturdy support qualities, interlocking block walls also offer elegant looks, while Techo-Bloc Grande concrete pavers stay in step with the yard’s traditional feel. For illumination and mood-setting ambiance, CLC installed an LED lighting system and placed mounted lights under the caps in the walls located in the lower patio area and near the pool.
To address the drainage flow from the hill behind the clients’ home, the CLC crew created a series of catch basins and drains. When a major storm flooded the basement during construction, the CLC team investigated. After determining that an old, broken pipe—unearthed when the site was excavated—was funneling the rainwater into the basement, they worked with the homeowners and their insurance company to remedy the situation.
“At first, there was tremendous angst and fear that it would happen again,” says Cording Sr. “But through all subsequent storms, they’ve been dry as a bone. This home was featured in the Montclair ‘Roses to Rock Gardens’ tour and the homeowners were sharing stories about the flood and how professional CLC had been in solving the problem.”
“They were truly invested in the outcome throughout,” Vicki says. “At different stages I would watch them walk the project as if they were envisioning where our family and guests would sit, where we would walk, what we would want our view to be, etc. To them, each brick and every plant has a purpose.”
The CLC team—led by Rich Cording Jr., who holds a master’s degree in landscape design from Columbia—beautified the newly created outdoor spaces with colorful plantings: roses, hydrangeas, ornamental grasses and an assortment of summerflowering perennials. Specialty trees such as fastigiate maple and Cleveland pear were also added.
“The landscaping is truly spectacular,” says Vicki. “Rich Jr. is a master of his craft. Our CLC team’s dedication, knowledge and expertise transformed our backyard, which we’ve enjoyed more now in a single summer than we did for our first 10 years living here combined.
“Where we once felt confined within the walls of our home, we have now doubled our living footprint with the addition of our beautiful outdoor spaces,” says homeowner Scott Province of the backyard renovation, which took place from July 2021 to July 2022.
TAKE THE KIDS! ESCAPES
When school’s out for the summer, your children deserve a junket—especially one that you too can enjoy.
Did you hear? It’s tough being a kid during the school year these days, what with multiplying, coloring in the lines, prepping for college and maintaining one’s social cool. Whether it’s book reports, science experiments or the parallel bars that most bedevil your student, she or he surely merits a kid-friendly, summertime travel treat as a reward. And wouldn’t it be nice if you could stand it too? Five not-far destinations spring to mind:
DYLAN’S CANDY BAR & THE M&M STORE, NEW YORK, N.Y.
See what “a kid in a candy store” really looks like at these two sweet destinations. You’ll find the M&M store right in Times Square, with two floors filled with chocolate and chocolate-themed apparel (and cartoons of the M&M mascots). Watch kids’ eyes pop out at the sight of the two-story-tall rainbow of M&M dispensers in all flavors (peanut, classic and more), offering colors exclusive to this spot. You can also check out the M&M printer, where a batch of candy with your individual message of choice can be created in about two minutes. About a mile and a half away at 20 Hudson Yards is Dylan’s Candy Bar, where 7,000 different confections are available to browse. Bulk sour candy, giant gummy bears, fudge, specialty chocolate—there’s something to satisfy any craving, plus accessories, apparel and even home goods.
An extra treat. Don’t let the name fool you— the Museum of Ice Cream, also in Manhattan, is just as fun as it is educational and is sure to charm anyone with a sweet tooth. With dessert-themed art installations, a play area with jungle gyms created for kids of all ages (even teenagers) and an arcade and a café with all the ice cream you could ever want, good luck getting your kids to leave.
More info: mms.com; dylanscandybar.com
BOUNDLESS ADVENTURES, HARRISON, N.Y.
Adventure awaits in Westchester County with this popular high-rope and zipline course, which can turn even a quick afternoon trip into a full, heartpounding journey. Seasoned professionals will help your kids into secure harnesses and climbing gear before they take to the treetops on the high ropes course (and the professionals remain close at hand). There are 11 unique courses at the park, each one with a series of 10 to 14 obstacles for a rousing physical and mental challenge. Strategize, balance and climb your way through them, all while taking in the stunning views of the lush, green forest. Then come as close as you can get to flying with the 23 ziplines, which cater to every level of skill. Both novices and seasoned thrill seekers are welcome.
An extra treat. Keep the outdoor adventures rolling! For a structured competition, head a few miles down the Hutchinson River Parkway to Saxton Woods Mini Golf, a 19-hole outdoor course with water features and a playground. If you crave something more low-key after all the adrenaline from the ziplines, the Kensico Dam Plaza is also nearby. The dam is 307 feet high and 1,843 feet long, with distinctive architecture and carvings. There are picnic tables and seating options aplenty, plus lots of space to run around. Bring a lunch, sit back and unwind. More info: boundlessadventures.net
DELAWARE RIVER TUBING, KINGWOOD
Enjoy a real-life “lazy river.” River tubing perfectly balances an easy, laid-back afternoon in the water with the spirit of outdoor adventure, and there are plenty of spots along the Delaware River to rent the gear and have professionals help you get started. Big Bear Gear River Tubing in Kingwood is the exclusive tubing operator on this portion of the river, licensed by the state of New Jersey. It will provide the river tube and a personal flotation device to keep everyone safe; you’ll enjoy a five-mile drift down the water. The trip takes from 90 minutes to three hours, depending on weather and other conditions. Make sure you check the forecast before heading out. For those looking for a little more direction, Big Bear also offers kayak rentals. An extra treat. Kingwood is a short drive from Frenchtown, an adorable small town on the New Jersey–Pennsylvania border with cozy cafes, distinctive shops, boutiques and art galleries. Older kids may enjoy browsing the curated consignment shop Country Chic Boutique, filled with oddities, or the Frenchtown Bookshop, which has an extensive children’s and young adults’ section. If you build up an appetite with your tubing trip, check out the Frenchtown Café, with a specialty burger menu that can satisfy even the most ravenous teenager. Something lighter? Try the Bridge Café, with sandwiches, soups and rotating daily menu options.
More info: bigbeargearnj.com
JENKINSON’S BOARDWALK, POINT PLEASANT BEACH
What better way to welcome the summer than a beach trip? Jenkinson’s isn’t our state’s first boardwalk (that’s Atlantic City’s), but it’s one of the most kid friendly. Besides a fun house, a Victorian ice-cream parlor, four arcades and classic games of chance, there’s also an amusement park with rides for everyone. Younger children can enjoy bumper cars, a carousel and a fun slide, while tweens and teens can take a turn on the Pirate’s Plunge (which drops you from 50 feet up), a large, spinning swing ride or the Tidal Wave coaster. And the whole family can pile onto the Ferris wheel to end the day. All of this stretched next to a beautiful beach and the crashing waves of the Atlantic, so you can take a dip, dry out in the sun and then have even more fun at your fingertips. An extra treat. If you’re overheating in the June sun, you can head over to Jenkinson’s Aquarium for a fun, animal-filled and airconditioned reprieve. Check out exhibits on Atlantic and Pacific sharks, coral reefs and all kinds of fish. One of the aquarium’s most popular attractions? The African penguins, who waddle and swim right up to the glass walls of their enclosure. You can also purchase special “experience” tours, which bring you up close and personal with the animals. More info: jenkinsons.com
SIX FLAGS GREAT ADVENTURE, JACKSON TOWNSHIP
If you’re looking for thrills, look no further. Six Flags Great Adventure is a wonderland of stomach-dropping roller coasters, more relaxed classic rides, arcade games and live entertainment. Those looking for a good stomach-drop will find much to like with the iconic Superman coaster, the wooden El Toro and the Jersey Devil coaster, one of the fastest single-rail roller coasters in the world. If you’re seeking a slower pace (or you don’t want Dad to get motion-sick), try the classic log flume if you don’t mind getting damp, Houdini’s Great Escape for a little bit of mystery or the magic teacups for the young ones. Grab lunch or a snack at one of the many dining options in the park, ranging from a classic burger and fries to quesadillas and nachos to fair-food favorites like funnel cake to end the day sweetly.
An extra treat. Six Flags is famous for its roller coasters, but there’s more to the park. Don’t forget to check out Hurricane Harbor, the adjoining water park, where you can cool off with ease and in style. Additional tickets are required to enter. Along with a giant wave pool and large waterslides (the Big Wave Racer spans 1,800 feet and has several steep drops), check out the newly opened Splash Island, a giant splash pad with a treehouse play area, smaller slides and lots of room to run.
More info: sixflags.com
—Kirsten Meehan
TASTES
Going Green
Whether hot or cold, these soups bring garden-fresh flavor—and they’re nutricious too.
CHILLED AVOCADO SOUP
Yields 4 servings
INGREDIENTS
n 4 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
n 2 cups sparkling water
n ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for garnish
n 3 ice cubes
n kosher salt
n black pepper, freshly ground
n ¼ cup small basil leaves
n 4 red radishes, thinly sliced
n 15-20 thin slices of seeded bread, toasted, for garnish
n 1 tsp. ground merkén chile flaky salt
DIRECTIONS
Cut the flesh of one avocado into cubes and set aside.
In a blender, purée the remaining avocados with the sparkling water, oil, ice and salt and black pepper to taste.
Pour the soup into bowls and garnish with the reserved avocado, basil, radishes, toasts, merkén, more oil and flaky salt.
“Avocados are the star of this creamy, refreshing soup, packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that support brain health and reduce inflammation. Extravirgin olive oil adds antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, further enhancing its nourishing benefits. For a gluten-free or lower-carb alternative to the seeded bread, try gluten-free almond flour crackers or crisped chickpea flatbread for a satisfying crunch.”
—Laurel Santiago, certified nutrition specialist, Integrative Center for Nutrition, Morristown
TASTES
CREAM OF CASHEW PEA SOUP
Yields 6 servings
INGREDIENTS
n 1/4 cup olive oil
n 2 large onions, finely chopped
n 2 celery stalks, chopped
n 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
n kosher salt, freshly ground pepper
n 2 cups raw cashews
n 2 Tbs. raw or light brown sugar
n 1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
n 2 lbs. frozen sugar snap or green
peas, thawed
n 1 Tbs. malt vinegar
n scallions, thinly sliced, and crushed potato chips (for serving)
DIRECTIONS
Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Add onions, celery and garlic, and cook, stirring often and adding a splash or so of water if the bottom of pan gets too brown, until golden brown, 30–40 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Add cashews, sugar, red pepper flakes and 3 cups water and bring mixture to a simmer. Cook until vegetables are very soft and losing their structure, 10–15 minutes.
Blend one-third of sugar snap peas with one-third of vegetable mixture in a blender, adding some cooking liquid from vegetable mixture as needed to thin, until very smooth, about 2 minutes. Press purée through a fine-mesh sieve into a medium saucepan; discard solids. Working in 2 batches, repeat with remaining peas and vegetable mixture, adding water as needed if you run out of cooking liquid. If soup is still very thick, thin with water until you get a velvety, pourable consistency. (You should have about 7 cups soup.)
Stir vinegar into soup; season with more salt and pepper and warm over medium-low heat until heated through.
Serve soup topped with scallions and potato chips.
“Cashews create a silky, dairy-free creaminess while providing magnesium and healthy fats, which support muscle relaxation, reduce stress and boost energy. Sweet green peas offer plant-based protein and gut-friendly fiber, making this dish both nourishing and satisfying. Instead of potato chips, crispy roasted chickpeas deliver a crunchy, protein-rich alternative without the refined starch.”
—Laurel Santiago, certified nutrition specialist, Integrative Center for Nutrition, Morristown
Get The Blues
When the weather warms, cool off with this refreshing summertime sip.
BLUE LAGOON COCKTAIL
Makes: 1 serving
INGREDIENTS
n 1 oz. vodka
n 1 oz. blue curaçao
n 6 oz. lemonade n lemon slice or mint leaf for garnish
DIRECTIONS
Pour the liquors over fresh ice cubes directly in glass or in cocktail shaker. Top off glass with lemonade or add 5 to 6 ounces of lemonade to shaker, shake and strain over ice. Serve with straw and garnish of lemon or mint.
TOP LAWYERS MORRIS COUNTY’S 2025
TO HELP YOU FIND SOME OF THE BEST ATTORNEYS IN MORRIS COUNTY, across 31 specialties, Morris & Essex magazine contracted DataJoe Research of Boulder, Colorado to facilitate an online peer-vote process and create a Top Morris County Lawyer list. Attorneys throughout the county were asked to select peers whom they deem are the best within their practice areas and whom they would seek out for particular legal needs.
DataJoe checked and confirmed that each published top vote getter had, at the time of review, a current, active license status with the State of New Jersey regulatory board. If they were not able to find evidence of a lawyer’s current, active registration, he or she was excluded from the list. In addition, any lawyer who has been disciplined for an infraction by the State of New Jersey regulatory board was excluded from the list. Finally, DataJoe presented the tallied result to Morris & Essex magazine for its final review.
We recognize that there are many good attorneys who are not shown in this representative list. This is only a sampling of the huge array of talented professionals within Morris County.
APPELLATE LAW
KATELYN E. CUTINELLO
Cocca & Cutinello LLP
36 Cattano Ave. Morristown, NJ 07960
973-828-9000
DAVID FASSETT
Arseneault & Fassett LLC 560 Main St. Chatham, NJ 07928
973-635-3366
BONNIE C. FROST
Einhorn, Barbarito, Frost, Botwinick, Nunn & Musmanno PC 165 E. Main St. Denville, NJ 07834 973-586-4911
MATHEU D. NUNN
Einhorn, Barbarito, Frost, Botwinick, Nunn & Musmanno PC 165 E. Main St. Denville, NJ 07834 973-586-4910
SHALOM D. STONE
Stone Conroy LLC 25A Hanover Rd., Suite 301 Florham Park, NJ 07932 973-400-4181
MARY JOAN S. KENNEDY Saiber LLC 18 Columbia Tpke., Suite 200 Florham Park, NJ 07932 973-622-8405
SCOTT KORF Korf & Rosenblatt PC 89 Headquarters Plaza North 14th Floor Morristown, NJ 07960 973-993-1738
BASIL F. O’CONNOR Schenck Price Smith & King LLP 220 Park Ave. Florham Park, NJ 07932 973-295-3674
MATTHEW S. RHEINGOLD Einhorn, Barbarito, Frost, Botwinick, Nunn & Musmanno PC 165 E. Main St. Denville, NJ 07834 973-586-4915
SAMANTHA ROCCO Einhorn, Barbarito, Frost, Botwinick, Nunn & Musmanno PC 165 E. Main St. Denville, NJ 07834 973-586-4915
RICHARD D. SANDERS Day Pitney LLP 1 Jefferson Rd. Parsippany, NJ 07054 973-966 8073
MELISSA A. TERRANOVA Fox Rothschild LLP 49 Market St. Morristown, NJ 07960 973-548-3315
STACEY M. VALENTINE Avelino Law LLP 19 Cattano Ave. Morristown, NJ 07960 908-273-5730
JORDAN M. WASSEL Schenck Price Smith & King LLP 220 Park Ave. Florham Park, NJ 07932 973-540-7345
WYNNE A. WHITMAN Schenck Price Smith & King LLP 220 Park Ave. Florham Park, NJ 07932 973-540-7340
WORKERS’ COMPENSATION
THOMAS F. DORN, JR. Einhorn, Barbarito, Frost, Botwinick, Nunn & Musmanno PC 165 E. Main St. Denville, NJ 07834 973-586-4921
SANDRA C. FAVA, Founding Partner
FAVA LAW LLC
6 South St., Ste. 203, Morristown, NJ 07960
973.532.2200 | sfava@favalawnj.com
Since dispute resolution rarely happens overnight, Sandra Fava, founding partner at Fava Law, knows that her clients need a trusted and zealous advocate to help them navigate the complex and emotional process of family law issues. Sandra provides effective strategies, innovative solutions and compassionate counsel, all of which lead to an easier transition to her clients’ next phase of life.
As a leader in her practice area, Sandra has been named a Super Lawyer in Family Law and a Top 50 Women in law in NJ by Super Lawyers. She has been recognized by Best Lawyers and Chambers for her work in family law. Sandra has dedicated her legal career to the thoughtful and diligent representation of clients in divorce matters. She uses her experience to show clients that the divorce process does not have to be frightening or frustrating. With both an extensive knowledge of the law and the process to guide her clients, Sandra employs those tools to reduce the emotional distress that may accompany the experience. Sandra knows that every family’s situation is unique and works with clients to find appropriate solutions to fit their needs.
CINDY BALL WILSON, ESQ., Founder
WILSON FAMILY LAW LLC
667 Shunpike Rd., Suite 5, Chatham, NJ 07928
Office: 973.520.4275 | www.wilsonfamilylawllc.com
Attorney - Mediator - Parenting Coordinator
Cindy Wilson’s goal is to help her clients transition into their new lives, preferably through peaceful problem-solving rather than provoking unnecessary hostility. She’s a soothing soul in the lives of her clients, empowering them with options using mediation, collaboration, or litigation.
Ms. Wilson leads her clients through a cooperative and solution-oriented negotiating process that’s fulfilling and reassuring. Clients describe Ms. Wilson as level-headed, yet unrelenting in her ability to find common ground between parties. She’s passionate about the art of negotiation and applies a skillful approach to crafting strategies. As a respected member of the dispute resolution community, Ms. Wilson focuses on resolving family issues efficiently and privately while keeping the entire family’s best interest in mind.
In addition to her comprehensive training, education, and professional associations, Ms. Wilson’s years of experience span the breadth of divorce issues having dealt mostly with high net worth clients involving complex financial matters. If you would like to learn the options for resolving family disputes without going to war, please contact Wilson Family Law for a consultation. DIVIDING
CADICINA LAW, LLC
JOSEPH P. CADICINA, CARLY DIFRANCISCO, PASQUA SCIANCALEPORE CADICINA
Cadicina Law, LLC is a divorce and family law firm located in Morristown, that handles all aspects of complex divorce matters. As astute interpreters of New Jersey law and experienced litigators in the courts throughout New Jersey, the firm’s attorneys fearlessly advocate on behalf of their northern New Jersey clients and strive for the best possible results. Besides the Morristown office, the firm also has a Bergen County office located at 279 Franklin Ave., Wyckoff, NJ. Joseph P. Cadicina, a family law veteran for over 27 years leads this team of respected and recognized matrimonial attorneys. Mr. Cadicina is the Morris County Bar Association 2021 Past President and 2019 President of the Morris County Bar Foundation. Cadicina Law Attorneys have been featured in New Jersey Monthly Magazine’s “Super Lawyers”, “Best Lawyers in America”, and in New Jersey Family Magazine’s “Best Lawyers for Families” and frequently present at local and national conferences on family law and matrimonial issues.
ALLEN J. SCAZAFABO, JR.
RIKER DANZIG LLP
Headquarters Plaza, Morristown, New Jersey 079621
As of July 1, 2025: 7 Giralda Farms, Madison, New Jersey 07940 973.451.8428 | ascazafabo@riker.com | www.riker.com
As a partner and head of Riker Danzig’s well-regarded Family Law Practice, Allen takes the necessary time to uncover important details of his clients’ cases that might be overlooked by others. He recognizes that no case is “boilerplate”; the issues are personal and consequential to each party. Though he pursues his clients’ cases in an expeditious manner regardless of complexity, Allen shuns formulaic and cookie-cutter resolutions. Instead, he works with each client, guiding them into reasonable decisions that make sense for their unique situation. It’s clear that Allen refuses to run a volume-based practice; peers and former clients have recognized his high level of professionalism with numerous awards. Allen is certified by the Supreme Court of NJ as a matrimonial law attorney, and was elected to serve on the Family Law Executive Committee of the NJ State Bar Association for 2017-2018.
No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court of New Jersey.
Thomas R. McConnell, Pasqua S. Cadicina, Joseph P. Cadicina, Carly DiFrancisco and Mauro D. Altamura
TOP LAWYERS ESSEX COUNTY’S 2025
TO HELP YOU FIND SOME OF THE BEST ATTORNEYS IN ESSEX COUNTY, across 38 specialties, Morris & Essex magazine contracted DataJoe Research of Boulder, Colorado to facilitate an online peer-vote process and create a Top Essex County Lawyer list. Attorneys throughout the county were asked to select peers whom they deem are the best within their practice areas and whom they would seek out for particular legal needs.
DataJoe checked and confirmed that each published top vote getter had, at the time of review, a current, active license status with the State of New Jersey regulatory board. If they were not able to find evidence of a lawyer’s current, active registration, he or she was excluded from the list. In addition, any lawyer who has been disciplined for an infraction by the State of New Jersey regulatory board was excluded from the list. Finally, DataJoe presented the tallied result to Morris & Essex magazine for its final review.
We recognize that there are many good attorneys who are not shown in this representative list. This is only a sampling of the huge array of talented professionals within Essex County.
ANTITRUST LAW
JOSEPH J. DEPALMA
Lite DePalma Greenberg & Afanador LLC 570 Broad St., Suite 1201 Newark, NJ 07102 973-877-3810
APPELLATE LAW
BRIAN M. BLOCK
Mandelbaum Barrett PC
3 Becker Farm Rd., Suite 105 Roseland, NJ 07068 973-243-7981
ANDREW GIMIGLIANO
Mandelbaum Barrett PC 3 Becker Farm Rd., Suite 105 Roseland, NJ 07068 973-243-7982
BRUCE D. GREENBERG
Lite DePalma Greenberg & Afanador LLC 570 Broad St., Suite 1201 Newark, NJ 07102 973-877-3820
LAWRENCE S. LUSTBERG
Gibbons PC 1 Gateway Center Newark, NJ 07102 973-596-4731
PETER G. VERNIERO
Sills Cummis & Gross PC 1 Riverfront Plaza Newark, NJ 07102 973-643-5485
446 Route 35, Building C, Suite 101, Eatontown, NJ 07724 | 848.257.0100 www.sarnolawfirm.com
Sarno da Costa D’aniello Maceri Webb LLC (SDDM) is a NJ legal powerhouse in the areas of family law, medical malpractice, and personal injury. Angelo Sarno, owner and managing partner of the firm, leads the firm’s five offices in Bergen, Essex, Monmouth, Morris, and Somerset County. Since its inception in 2009, the firm has grown to 28 attorneys, serving clients throughout NJ.
SdDMW is committed to providing strong legal representation and unparalleled personal attention to each client. The firm was built on a simple foundation – delivering client-focused representation with the primary objective of achieving the best possible results. SDDMW’s client-first focus guides everything the firm does, from the first meeting until the case is resolved. The attorneys provide options for resolution, manage complex legal matters, and address sensitive disputes with compassion and respect. The firm attributes much of its success to passionately providing direct access to its clients, as well as utilizing cutting-edge strategies while drawing on depths of experience. The attorneys and staff form a collaborative team delivering high-quality outcomes on complex and often extremely sensitive issues.
Angelo leads the firm’s family law department and ensures each client is met with strong personalized legal counsel to help them navigate through some of life’s most difficult situations. Paul da Costa heads up the medical malpractice and personal injury department. He and his team have earned millions of dollars in awards and settlements for victims. All offices are interconnected and operate seamlessly. SDDMW is fully adapted to handle all matters remotely.
DEBORAH E. NELSON
CHIESA SHAHINIAN & GIANTOMASI PC 105 Eisenhower Parkway | Roseland, NJ 07068 973.530.2390 | dnelson@csglaw.com | www.csglaw.com
Deb’s family law practice includes adoptions, child and adult guardianships, divorces and custody matters, international kidnapping, domestic violence, relocations, premarital agreements, post and mid-marriage agreements, enforcement of divorce judgments and appeals. Some cases must go to trial, like the international kidnapping case that Deb tried over a 12-day period in Bergen County Superior Court. Cases involving custody and parenting rights must sometimes go to trial, as well, to promote and preserve a child’s best interest. Most cases, however, resolve amicably utilizing alternative dispute resolution processes such as arbitration, mediation and collaborative law. Deb is frequently retained as an arbitrator, mediator and collaborative law practitioner and has been listed on the Court-approved roster of economic mediators, is certified in collaborative law and has served on the New Jersey Supreme Court Complementary Dispute Resolution Committee. Deb is a former President of the Morris County Bar Association and the Morris County Bar Foundation. In continuing efforts to give back, Deb has volunteered with Susan G. Komen, an organization dedicated to eliminating breast cancer, and is actively involved in CSG’s Pro Bono Committee.
Where To Eat
Getting three squares a day has never been easier—Morris and Essex counties are home to a selection of restaurants diverse enough to satisfy all of your cravings.
BELLEVILLE
Solar Do Minho
15 Cleveland St. 973.844.0500 solardominho belleville.com
Topaz Thai
137 Washington Ave. 973.759.7425 topazthainj2021.com
BLOOMFIELD
Bella Napoli
1640 Broad St. 973.338.8500 bellanapolinj.com
Binh Duong
61 Belleville Ave.
973.680.8440 binhduongrestaurant.com
Bloomfield Steak & Seafood House
409 Franklin St. 973.680.4500 eatbeefgethooked.com
Stamna 1055 Broad St. 973.338.5151 stamnataverna.com
BOONTON
Boonton
Sushi House
701 Main St. 973.394.8811 sushiboonton.com
Roma Pizzeria 709 Main St. 973.335.1614 romapizzaofboonton.com
Montclair’s El Gordo serves up a satisfying South American cuisine—and a surprise or two.
Two summers ago, a friend and I reserved a table at Fusionista, a trendy new Peruvian fusion restaurant near Montclair’s main drag. The food there was inventive (I wrote about the outing for this magazine in September 2023), with global takes on classic flavors of Peru. Flash-forward to May of this year, when we were hyped up for yet another new Peruvian eatery in Montclair.
I was hoping for a similar experience; however, this time was a tad different—and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. At El Gordo, which opened earlier this spring in the township’s South End neighborhood, to-go orders appear to generate the most business, and we didn’t have a problem walking in on a Friday night and finding a table. Also unlike Fusionista, which had many inventive dishes, El Gordo boasted a healthy mix of traditional foods such as the ever-popular pollo a la brasa, Peruvian rotisserie chicken.
As we browsed the selections, my girlfriend and I snacked on cancha, a toasted corn kernel appetizer, and sipped a pair of delicious juices. My chicha morada, Peruvian corn juice mixed with a splash of pineapple and lime, was on point, as was my girlfriend’s passionfruit drink. She reminded me that she spent a portion of 2022 living in the Peruvian rainforest with an environmental organization, and the flavor of both of El Gordo’s drinks immediately conjured up fond memories for her. And seeing the names of familiar food options brought a smile to her face.
Despite her time in the Amazon, my girlfriend didn’t pretend to know everything on the menu, and we both decided to start by trying things we’d never had—that meant no papas fritas, no yuca fritas, no maduros (although each of these were tempting). Our first appetizer was choros a la chalaca, a ceviche-type dish made with plump mussels marinated in tangy lime juice and mixed with zesty red onions, tomatoes and corn. On presentation alone, the bright, Instagram-worthy dish scored high points, and it earned more with its taste. The combination of fresh ingredients provided an invigorating and tangy start to the meal.
To help cleanse our palates and have some roughage with our main courses (our choices
did not come with any green), we also split the “Andes” salad. This simple salad—a crisp and refreshing mix of lettuce, tomatoes and avocado dressed in a light vinaigrette— provided a cool contrast to the warm, flavorful entrées.
My entrée, seco combinado, wasn’t as bright and colorful as the two appetizers, but it was the star of my evening. It’s a traditional beef stew served with a cilantro sauce, white rice, beans and salsa criolla (onions, tomatoes, vinegar). The braised beef was juicy and tender, on the bone with marrow for extra flavor, while the sauce was aromatic. I’m very much into comfort food any time of the day/ year, and what a time it was to enjoy this Peruvian kitchen classic.
For her main course, my girlfriend had the arroz con pollo y huancaína. Though she’s had versions of arroz con pollo, mainly at Mexican restaurants, she was surprised at the differences in El Gordo’s version. A massive chicken drum (we’re talking turkeyleg size) was the center of attention on her plate, and it had the juicy flavors and spices of Peruvian rotisserie. Even more delightful were the forkfuls of savory chicken and the accompanying cilantro-infused rice. The only thing my girlfriend wasn’t too fond of was the side of papa a la huancaína. The combination of boiled potatoes and rich, super creamy queso fresco didn’t mesh well with her taste buds, so she left most of it for me. I thought huancaína was a spicy sauce, but I didn’t detect a hint of heat in El Gordo’s version. Pro tip: Be sure your significant other hands over the dish while it’s still warm and the cheese hasn’t started to harden.
It was such a nice night that we decided to take our dessert to go and enjoy a nice walk around the block with the sweets. That would’ve been tough had we ordered the dulce de leche cake, but strolling while munching on a pair of fresh-baked alfajores (dulce de leche sandwiched between two sweetened biscuits) was a delight—much like the entire El Gordo experience.
—Darius Amos
by Darius Amos
Photos
John Hamberger, D.M.D.
Jason Hamberger, D.D.S.
Hamberger Dental Associates
155 S. Livingston Ave., Livingston, NJ 07039
973.992.0075
www.hambergerdentalassociates.com
Hamberger Dental Associates makes the process of choosing a family dentist an easy one. Drs. John and Jason Hamberger agree that excellence in dentistry comes down to listening to the needs and concerns of each individual patient to develop a treatment plan specifically tailored to them. The Father and Son team, along with their exceptional staff, have been providing the Livingston community and surrounding areas with outstanding family dental care for over 40 years.
Their caring Family Practice offers comprehensive service for all patients of all ages, ranging from Fillings to Full Mouth Reconstruction. They offer minimally invasive drill-less air abrasion technology to painlessly treat small areas of decay. Both Dentists are highly skilled in Endodontics, Periodontics, Oral Surgery, Laser Surgery, Veneers and Implants including “All on 4”. Their progressive office offers the highest technologies including Digital X-Rays, Intra-Oral Cameras, and a 3D CBCT/CAT Scan.
The Dentists and their dedicated staff take the time to ensure that patients truly understand all aspects of recommended care. They understand Patient’s busy schedules, offering extended hours including morning, evening and Saturday hours.
Dr. John Hamberger graduated from UMDNJ with honors, completed a residency at Overlook Hospital with a residency degree from Columbia University. Dr. John Hamberger was past president of Western Essex Dental Association, a member of the ADA and Essex County Dental Association.
Dr. Jason Hamberger graduated from University of Maryland with honors, completed a residency at Morristown Hospital and received his residency degree from Mt. Sinai Medical Center. Dr. Jason Hamberger was past president of Western Essex Dental Association, a member of the ADA, and past president of the Essex County Dental Association.
Mark Khaimov, DDS
MK Periodontics and Implant Dentistry
184 Centre St., Nutley, NJ 07110 973.798.2639
131 Columbia Turnpike, Suite 2C, Florham Park, NJ 07932 | 973. 377.3131 www.Mkperionj.com
At MK Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, Dr. Mark Khaimov blends precision, innovation, and compassion to deliver exceptional periodontal and implant care. With a focus on both advanced technology and patient comfort, Dr. Khaimov has built a reputation for offering cutting-edge solutions that help patients restore and maintain healthy, confident smiles.
Dr. Khaimov stands out in the field for his expertise in some of the most advanced procedures available today. His practice offers LANAP (Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure), a minimally invasive laser treatment for gum disease that promotes healing with less discomfort and downtime. For patients suffering from gum recession, the Pinhole Surgical Technique provides a scalpel-free, suture-free option that delivers impressive aesthetic results. His guided implant surgery ensures precision and long-term success, and his use of TeethXpress allows patients to leave with a full set of functional, natural-looking teeth in a single day.
For Dr. Khaimov, creating beautiful smiles starts with prevention. “The best advice I can give is to start early,” he says. “Prioritize preventive care over reactive, complex treatment. It makes a tremendous difference in your long-term oral health and confidence.”
A lifelong learner, Dr. Khaimov is committed to staying at the forefront of dental innovation. He actively pursues continuing education through hands-on courses and regularly attends professional conferences to learn about the latest research, tools, and techniques in periodontics and implantology. This dedication allows him to bring the best of modern dentistry to each patient he serves.
His personalized, patient-first approach ensures that everyone who walks through the door of MK Periodontics and Implant Dentistry feels heard, respected, and cared for. Whether you’re seeking to treat gum disease, replace missing teeth, or simply feel more confident about your smile, Dr. Khaimov and his team are ready to help you achieve your goals with expertise and compassion.
Gi Gi Paralkar
Livingston Family Orthodontics
201 S. Livingston Ave., Suite 2B, Livingston, NJ 07039
973.758.8926
www.LivingstonFamilyOrthodontics.com
Dr. Gi Gi Paralkar believes that children, teens, and adults deserve a highly personalized, one-on-one approach to beautifully straight smiles. Her practice, Livingston Family Orthodontics, is a boutique specialty practice offering the latest in braces and Invisalign for all ages.
Our personalized approach to orthodontics sets us apart. We make every effort to get to know our patients and their concerns to give them the smile they’ve always wanted. Unlike corporate orthodontic practices, Dr. Gi Gi crafts every smile herself through one-on-one care. She prides herself on providing a positive experience on the way to achieving a beautiful smile.
Dr. Gi Gi graduated from Columbia University at the top of her class, and completed her orthodontic training at Rutgers University as chief resident. She is a member of several esteemed dental associations and has proudly served as past president of the Livingston Rotary Club.
Christina R Carter, D.M.D.
Carter Smile Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics
180 Main St. Madison, NJ 07940 973.540.1666 cartersmileLLC@gmail.com
Dr. Christina Carter’s practice stands out for its cutting-edge, compassionate approach to dental care. With advanced tools like the Dental Pain Eraser by Synapse, she minimizes discomfort for patients of all ages—from easing teething babies’ pain to reducing the need for anesthesia during fillings. Her stateof-the-art, low-dose x-ray imaging and CBCT scans allow for comprehensive diagnoses, often in collaboration with ENT and speech specialists.
A national and international lecturer, Dr. Carter is a tripletrained expert in Pediatric Dentistry, Orthodontics, and Craniofacial Orthodontics. She treats patients from infancy through adulthood, creating a true family-centered environment. The office is sensory-friendly, tailored to neurodiverse patients, and designed with comfort in mind.
Anthony L. Fusco, D.M.D.
Joseph R. Caravano, D.M.D.
Family & Cosmetic Dentistry of Randolph 390 State Rt. 10, Randolph, NJ 07869 | 973.361.1198 www.dentistryofrandolph.com
Drs. Anthony Fusco and Joseph Caravano practice a full scope of general and cosmetic dentistry. With an on-site dental technician, their office provides quick turn-around time on their patients’ dental needs. These skills and conveniences combined with treating patients like family have made this practice a Top Dentist choice.
Drs. Fusco and Caravano, are both graduates of UMDNJ and are members of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, and New Jersey Dental Association. They are involved locally with the Tri-County Dental Society. Their office offers family scheduling, and evening and weekend hours for added convenience.
Dr. Barbara Fodero, D.D.S., MS
Chatham Orthodontics
33 Main St., Suite 104, Chatham, NJ 07928 | 973.701.2200 • www.chathambraces.com smile@chathambraces.com
A dual passion for art and science led Dr. Barbara Fodero, to studying orthodontia and has seen her happily engineering beautiful smiles for kids, teens and adults ever since. As a board-certified orthodontist, Dr. Fodero leverages the latest technology, like custom, 3-D printed Lightforce braces, to ensure she can provide the best available treatment for each patient, with the fastest possible treatment time.
Chatham Orthodontics—established by Dr. Fodero over 15 years—is situated in close proximity to Essex, Morris and Union counties. As a mom, Dr. Fodero implicitly understands the importance of a gentle hand and only recommends treatment she would endorse for her own family. She delights in her work with young people and enjoys the strong connections made with her adult patients. Dr. Fodero is highly skilled at working with patients who have oral sensitivities and anxiety issues.
Dr. Fodero graduated valedictorian of her dental class at the University of Michigan and continued on for an additional three years to earn her masters in the specialty of orthodontics.
Meeta Grewal, DDS
Canoe Brook Pediatric Dentistry
301 South Livingston Ave., #104, Livingston, NJ 07039 973.577.7716 www.canoebrookpediatricdentistry.com
Dr. Meeta Grewal is the founder of Canoe Brook Pediatric Dentistry, a modern, prevention-focused practice serving children of all ages. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Grewal is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry. She serves as Director at the NYU Langone pediatric residency program and frequently speaks at dental conferences nationwide. Her practice combines cutting-edge technology with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere, making dental visits engaging and educational. Known for personalized care, a compassionate team, and convenient weekend hours, Canoe Brook emphasizes long-term oral health through prevention.
As a local Essex County mom, Dr. Grewal understands the needs of families and is deeply trust-ed by the community. Her mission is to help every child feel confident about their smile in a calm, supportive environment.
Carlos Moglianesi, DMD, FACP
Board Certified Prosthodontist
300 Main St., Chatham NJ 07928
908.665.2300 www.drmoglianesi.com
Carlos Moglianesi is a dedicated prosthodontist specializing in complex restorative and cosmetic dental care. At his practice, patients benefit from cutting-edge treatments such as clear aligners, veneers, bone grafting, crown and bridge work, and guided implant surgery—all delivered using advanced in-house technology.
Carlos emphasizes the power of personalized care, encouraging patients to start with a conversation to explore achievable smile solutions. He stays at the forefront of dentistry by attending and presenting at advanced courses, constantly refining his techniques. His investment in digital tools, including custom surgical guide and restoration production, ensures precise, efficient results. With a patient-first approach, Carlos is committed to delivering confident, natural-looking smiles tailored to each individual’s needs and goals.
High-quality orthodontics with a mom’s touch, is the cornerstone of Rockaway Orthodontics’ patient experience. Dr. Melissa Roberto built her practice around the idea that patients deserve compassionate and transparent care tailored to their needs and the needs of their families.
As a single practitioner, Dr. Roberto’s patients know they’ll be getting her expert attention and thoughtful guidance each time they visit the office. She takes personal care in ensuring patient comfort and is proactive in creating a low-stress environment for everyone, especially those with special needs or who require sensory accommodations.
ON THE TOWN
Be There
From must-see festivals to fantastic fireworks to laugh-out-loud comedians, there’s something for everyone this season in our counties.
JUNE 12–15
For the 11th year, Rockaway will host the TRI-COUNTY FAIR. Bring the entire family for carnival rides and games, fair food and musical performances, plus monster truck rides and performances from an illusionist. Don’t forget to stay for the spectacular fireworks show. Admission is free, and opening times vary depending on the day. schedule, see tricountyfair.org.
JUNE 20
14 your pride support the community at MONTCLAIR PRIDE, held Montclair History This family-friendly includes food trucks, activities, crafts and games. be taking the stage all day, and a be open for those 21+. The fun noon. To find out more, check out montclairhistory.org.
JUNE 16
What’s the best way to celebrate Dad? Lots of laughs, that’s what! New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark welcomes EARTHQUAKE’S FATHER’S DAY COMEDY, where comedians Earthquake known for HBO’s Def Comedy and Shaq’s All-Star Comedy Jam), DeRay Davis, Chico Bean and Simone night. tickets head
Dubbed the town’s “most summer event,” DENVILLE DARK kicks off with games and more. Visitors to wander through downtown and see all that it has Diamond Spring Brewery’s Beer Garden and enjoy including a hot dog The fun starts at 5:30 more information can downtowndenville.com.
JUNE 21–22
If you’re looking for something one of a kind to add your art collection, you’re in luck. Essex County Parks will host a FINE ARTS & CRAFTS SALE starting at 10 a.m. at Brookdale Park in Bloomfield. This juried show features a selection of fine artists, sculptors, photographers and craft artisans displaying and selling their hand-crafted work. Come out, support local artists and find your new favorite piece. For more, see essexcountyparks.org.
JUNE 26
Taking center stage at Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown is ISAAC MIZRAHI, known for his eclectic mix of comedy, commentary and cabaret song numbers. The show includes classic songs by everyone from Stephen Sondheim to Blondie to Madonna, all backed by a six-piece jazz band. This act is sure to have you tapping your toes and laughing out loud. The show starts at 8 p.m. For tickets, check out mayoarts.org.
Turtle selection breweries beverages vendors. offer throughout zoologicalsocietyofnj.org.
Love cars? Paul Miller Porsche in Parsippany is hosting a CLASSIC CONCOURS for Porsches all years and models. Come take in the sights or bring your own ride to competition—all are welcome. Exterior, interior and storage areas will be judged; engines will not examined at this event. Winners will take home special prizes, light refreshments will be provided for all. This event begins at 9 a.m., and more information can be at nnjr-pca.com.
JULY 4
Celebrate Independence in style at DENVILLE’S CELEBRATION, held at Field. Come enjoy live band starts playing at and great community, kick back on a picnic blanket a camping chair and take stunning fireworks. To see denvillenj.gov.
its 20th MAPLEWOODSTOCK filled with and amazing Memorial Maplewood. always draws crowds and vibes, and organizers all-out celebrating party days, event free. For more, head over to maplewoodstock.com.
Gatherings
Morris and Essex residents always show up to support their friends and neighbors.
1. INTERFAITH FOOD PANTRY NETWORK
The Interfaith Food Pantry Network in Morris Plains received a helping hand at a recent Friday Farmers’ Market. Volunteers from pharmaceutical company Daiichi Sankyo helped bag and distribute produce to neighbors and handed out roses to everyone.
2-3. NORTH ESSEX CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
North Essex Chamber of Commerce held its NECC Winter Social at Fogo de Chao in Wayne. The event brought together many members of the business community for a networking session.
4. COOPERMAN BARNABAS MEDICAL CENTER
In celebration of International Women’s Day, Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center honored Roshell Barker, senior retail manager at Sodexo/ Food Service, as the CBMC 2025 Woman of the Year.
5. NORTH TO SHORE
Prudential North to Shore Festival announced the lineup for its June festival, held in Newark and Asbury Park. Attending the ceremony were: Ras J. Baraka, John Moor, John Schreiber, Elizabeth McCarthy, Charlie Lowrey, First Lady Tammy Murphy and Gov. Phil Murphy.
6. ESSEX COUNTY
Residents celebrated the renaming of the Donald M. Payne Sr. School of Technology in Newark to honor the late Donald M. Payne Jr. Payne worked hard to advance women’s rights, transportation and infrastructure improvements and diabetes research.
7-9. MORRISTOWN ROTARY CLUB
The Morristown Rotary Club held the 21st Annual Taste of Morristown, featuring amazing food and spirits. All net proceeds support the rotary’s charitable efforts and causes.
“This picture was shot after a surprise proposal in front of an arch at the Frelinghuysen Arboretum in Morristown. Because the sun hit just right, I asked the couple if they could start to dance. They genuinely oozed love and passion for each other. It didn’t take much to get the perfect shot.”
