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Features
Is My Child Falling Behind? 16
Developmental milestones to measure kids’ progress were meant to assist families, not scare them. But sometimes a well-meaning parent can’t help but worry.
Meet 10 Great Kids 18
Before you complain about today’s younger generation, check out the stellar accomplishments of these under-21s in our two counties.
Look Smart! 22
Shopping for a student, hitting the campus yourself—or both? School yourself on 5 hot style trends.
Getting Ready
For ‘Dog Day’ 26
At The Seeing Eye, breeders and instructors strive to make the best matches between guide dogs and
the humans who will rely on them. Then the moment of meeting arrives.
A Win For Windows 28
10
22
52
Departments
Morris/Essex Buzz 8
Our guide to new ideas, tips, trends and things we love in the counties.
Friends & Neighbors 10
If you’ve seen one 18-year-old Livingston sci-fi moviemaking mastermind, you’ve seen the mall.
Prominent views of the outdoors, along with vibrant art, help give Harding ranch home a relaxed, livable feel.
Pasta Perfect 32
Want a break from barbecue? Go Italian with a laid-back yet elegant party, big on flavor, that celebrates a humble ingredient.
Readers’ Choice 37
Who better than you, our readers, us the counties’ top restaurants, and services? Read on to see voted best of the best in 2025.
Style Watch 12
You’ll be ready for golden hour in rich, elegant hues.
Home Front 14
Floral designs can turn your space into a living bouquet.
Escapes 50
If you think anything beats a water park for sheer refreshment, you’re all wet.
Tastes 52
These easy-to-make apps are perfect for any cookout—they’re easy to make and packed with flavor and nutrients too!
Gatherings 79
Morris and Essex residents always show up to support their neighbors.
A Morris/Essex Moment 80
12
A Morris Plains father enjoys day of walking and biking his daughter at South Mountain Reservation in West Orange.
THE COVER
Faubourg in Montclair, 2025 Readers’ Choice winner, French Restaurant. Photo courtesy of Faubourg.
EVERY ISSUE
Editor’s Note Health News Where to Eat Be There
SUSAN REACH WINTERS
CHAIR, FAMILY LAW GROUP, CHIESA SHAHINIAN & GIANTOMASI PC
105 Eisenhower Parkway | Roseland, NJ 07068
973.530.2023 | swinters@csglaw.com
SUSAN IS WIDELY CONSIDERED A GO-TO THOUGHT LEADER on the practice of family law among circles of matrimonial and legal advisors alike. After all, she is uniquely qualified in this area given her more than 35 years of experience handling matters involving divorce, prenuptial agreements, business and other asset valuations, custody and visitation, child support, alimony and equitable distribution.
She solidified this reputation with the release of her book, “That Will Never Happen to Us,” to much acclaim and enthusiasm. Drawing upon her decades of experience as a matrimonial attorney, she delivers practical, preemptive guidance in the book shedding light on the complications that often arise in marriage – not only for those considering tying the knot, but also for parents planning to share their wealth with a child who is getting married.
Susan’s experience and passion for serving her clients with dedication and warmth position her as an extraordinary resource for tips, strategies and other insight into the gamut of financial, emotional and familial considerations that must go into a successful and lasting relationship.
Votes Now In
no doubt about to summer classroom, it’s also ESSEX to present Starting on businesses—from places, from florists readers, voted as you to browse their due— ought to try. that’s been when next
back-to-school fashion report beginning on page 22, and the “little recipes—in our Tastes section on page 52. On page 10, get to grad who’s already a proven sci-fi filmmaker. You think direction? Perhaps, but he’s not alone. On page 18, the people will boost your faith in the coming generation. a fencing phenom, a 13-year-old girl wrestler who’s competed as far away as Estonia and a 17-year-old boy who makes his participation in sports not only a goal in itself, but also a springboard to charitable activity. And speaking of charity, on page 8 you’ll read about food pantries that aid neighbors for whom the soaring price of groceries has become a hardship.
Neither Readers’ Choice nor the “back-to-school” theme entirely defines this issue, of course—our interests are too broad for that. Consider some questions, for example. Can a home be “overdesigned”? (Owners of a Harding ranch house are grateful that theirs wasn’t—page 28.) How much should you worry if your baby or toddler isn’t quite meeting his or her developmental “milestones”? (It’s not necessarily terrible—page 16.) And what versatile food (page 32) that starts with “P” and ends with “A” promises to enliven your late-summer or early-fall party? (Hint: The word has no Zs.)
Then there are Seeing Eye dogs for the blind and visually impaired. The national headquarters for an organization called The Seeing Eye is right here in Morris Township, and we pay it a visit on page 26. Imagine a canine that’s not just a beloved companion, but also a key to independence! Learn how these dogs are selected, trained and matched with their new owners—and how those owners are prepared as well.
In short, we’re confident that you’ll find many things of interest in this issue of MORRIS & ESSEX. Yes, it’s a busy time, but stealing a few minutes to read is permissible if it makes you wiser. (Or if it’s a pleasure—pleasure’s OK too.)
So enjoy!
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
LESLIE GARISTO PFAFF
PAUL RANCE JR.
NAYDA RONDON
Contributing Photographer
JULIA D'AGOSTINO
PRODUCTION
Production Manager
FERN E. MESHULAM
Production Artist
CHRIS FERRANTE
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Morris & Essex Buzz
OUR GUIDE TO NEW IDEAS, TIPS, TRENDS AND THINGS WE LOVE IN OUR COUNTIES.
A HEALTHIER YOU
Looking to take that first step to getting back in shape? Or finally dealing with the lingering pain you’ve been trying to ignore? Two new options can help:
—Over in Fairfield, Pilates Please has opened its doors. This reformer Pilates studio was created by women for women, specifically to help ease the discomfort that can come with navigating a male-dominated gym environment. There are classes for all levels, from beginners to seasoned experts, plus strength training and classes that incorporate sound healing.
• Pilates Please, 24 Little Falls Rd., Unit D, Fairfield, 862.310.8223; pilatespleasestudio.com
—Attain Physical Therapy, a leading national rehabilitation provider, moves from its Fairfield location to a state-of-the-art Pompton Plains facility inside Spa 23 Fitness and Lifestyle. The partnership creates a one-stop-shop for whole-body health and wellness. The new location will offer a full range of rehabilitation services, including injury recovery, mobility and strength training and ongoing wellness support.
Stray felines roaming your neighborhood? You can do more for them than just leaving out some food. Trap-neuter-return (TNR) is a humane and effective approach to helping stray or feral cats that can’t be relocated indoors—and community cats who live outdoors. The national animal protection organization Alley Cat Allies says that TNR “reduces shelter intake and killing and reduces calls to animal services, all of which save cats’ lives and taxpayer dollars.” It keeps the cats healthy and stops new stray kittens from being born (an increasing health concern, as cats can carry bird flu).
Looking for experts in TNR, or help with a feral cat concern? Try these organizations:
• St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center, 575 Woodland Ave., Madison, 973.377.2295; sthuberts.org
PUPPY LOVE
Dog: Beau, a 5-year-old Havanese poodle
Owner: Kristin Esposito of Millburn Beau came to Esposito’s home during the COVID lockdown, bringing his big personality. He’s a fan of mozzarella cheese, and even the sound of the refrigerator cheese drawer opening will summon him from anywhere in the house. Another favorite treat is stale bread, which he will carry around the house and outside on walks if he gets his paws on it. His preferred activities include cuddling and playing with his squeaky tennis ball, something he can never get enough of.
Says Esposito: “His eyes are what get you first—one blue, one brown and both packed with so much emotion you can almost read his mind.” Beau seems to expect such mind-reading, as his way to make an impression is to stare and lock eyes with a person until he’s acknowledged.
“When it comes to getting attention,” Esposito says, “he’s hilariously persistent.” Want to see your pet in an upcoming issue of MORRIS & ESSEX? Email a brief description and photo to Editor Rita Guarna at rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com.
FEEDING
MORE FAMILIES
Grocery prices are through the roof these days, and for some of our neighbors that means a struggle to put enough food on the table. The food pantry at First Baptist Church of Madison is one of many nonprofits helping to feed those in need, and it’s now teaming up with the Interfaith Food Pantry Network (IFPN) in Morris Plains to expand its reach. As a mobile pantry partner with IFPN, First Baptist will receive perishable items—fresh produce, milk and eggs, for instance—once a month for its clients. The goal is to provide nutritionally dense foods to smaller pantries, where these items are often unavailable. First Baptist is the 11th community-based pantry served by IFPN’s partner program.
HUMMINGBIRD, DON’T FLY AWAY
Hummingbirds are one of nature’s miracles. Among the world’s smallest birds, they have heartbeats that exceed 500 beats per minute and their eggs are the size of coffee beans. We’re lucky enough to see them in person—the migrating, ruby-throated hummingbirds, the only hummingbird species to breed in the eastern United States, arrive in Morris and Essex counties in mid-spring and can stay as late as early October. They’re more than just beautiful—hummingbirds are stellar pollinators for native plants, eat small insects and encourage biodiversity, say the folks at Down to Earth Living garden center in Pomona, N.Y. If you haven’t welcomed these marvels to your yard yet, there’s still time. Here’s how:
• Find the right plants. Hummingbirds need nectar-rich plants to survive. Try filling your garden with such plants as bee balm, columbine, trumpet vine, salvia, cardinal flower and coral bells—all recommended by the National Audubon Society.
KIDS’ CORNER
Congratulations to Greta Clausen of Short Hills, Eryn Rubenacker of Wharton and Frank Furnari of Oak Ridge. They’ve all received scholarships for their dedication to raising awareness of organ and tissue donation and transplant. Greta’s came through the Jim Rhatican Scholarship Fund, and she herself is an organ recipient. At 8 months old, she received a heart transplant that saved her life. Eryn, whose scholarship was awarded through the Riley’s Path Fund, was inspired to advocacy and activism after her mother’s organs were donated following her death from an aneurysm. Frank underwent a heart transplant two years ago after battling hypoplastic left heart syndrome (a congenital defect in which the heart’s left side is underdeveloped), and was awarded a scholarship through the Hearts for Emma Partner Fund.
And a round of applause to Keegan Bohlman of Maplewood, Christopher Ferrell of Livingston and Aidan Michael Sheridan of Maplewood, members of Maplewood’s Troop 5 who recently earned Eagle Scout Awards, the highest rank in Scouting America (formerly Boy Scouts of America). The rank requires a community service project. Keegan renovated an outdoor amphitheater at Tuscan Elementary School in Maplewood; Christopher refurbished an M60 battle tank on display in front of the West Orange Armory with the 102nd Cavalry Regiment Association; and Aidan beautified the area around the South Orange Veterans Memorial Rock near South Orange Middle School.
• Offer a water source. Every bird, even one so tiny and delicate, loves a birdbath. Hummingbirds enjoy moving water, so a small, shallow, battery- or solar-powered fountain can be a great attraction.
• Put out a feeder. Hummingbird feeders are readily available at hardware stores, big-box department stores and pet shops, and they’re often beautiful and decorative. You can easily make hummingbird nectar yourself—combine one part white sugar with four parts water. (Despite a common misconception, no red dye is needed.)
THE HOTTEST CHOCOLATE
You can’t scroll TikTok these days without seeing someone devouring Dubai chocolate. The sweet treat, created by a chocolatier in Dubai, is essentially a chocolate bar filled with kadayif (a type of shredded phyllo) and pistachio, and its smooth, creamy bite has made it a viral hit. While many retailers have been unable to get their hands on Dubai chocolate, the shops below (along with some grocery stores) have stocked it, or a form of it. Remember to call ahead for availability!
• Bromilow Chocolates, 891 Bloomfield Ave., West Caldwell, 973.227.0819; bromilow.com
• Chocolate Works, 55 E. Mt. Pleasant Ave., Livingston, 973.740.9090; chocolateworks.com
• Cleopatra Sweets, 34 First Ave., Denville, 973.234.4783; cleopatrasweets.com
• Nuts Factory, 26 S. Park St., Montclair, 917.445.6556; nutsfactory.com
• Sugar Bear, 301 Mount Hope Ave., Rockaway, 201.455.7091; sugarbearcandystore.com
HISTORY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
The Montclair History Center (MHC) has launched a new online collections portal, a database that combines all the center’s holdings—including the oral history, map, photography and quilt collections—in a searchable website accessible by the public. Interested in flipping through old high school yearbooks or browsing scrapbooks and other local artifacts? Everything on MHC database site is streamlined, simplified and easy to use. See the database and learn more at montclairhistory.org.
FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS
Video Wunderkind
If you’ve seen one 18-year-old Livingston sci-fi moviemaking mastermind, you’ve seen the mall.
In June, Elliot Radler graduated from Livingston High School with plans to attend the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) in Georgia for film. (He also hopes to earn a master’s degree in cinematography.) Radler, 18, has a leg up on some of his peers—he’s already written, directed and filmed his own five-episode mini-series, inspired by and shot in the Livingston Mall, entitled Cadburry
Originally a brainstorm between Radler and his friends, Cadburry became a full production with a cast and crew of around 40 people and a roughly $5,000 budget. Radler poured countless hours of his time, money and resources into the project—and appears on screen as one of the characters. The first three episodes were screened June 9 at Livingston High School, and also can be bought and streamed on the Cadburry website, cadburry.org.
Livingston native Radler lives with his parents, younger brother Ethan, and goldendoodle, Graham.
What sparked your passion for film?
In elementary school, my friends and I made videos. They were just skits, unscripted and improvised. I still have 15 or 20 of them on my computer, and they’re fun to look back on— like, they’re terrible! But that was the first step. What’s Cadburry’s elevator pitch?
The main character, Davis, is trapped in the Cadburry Mall. But the mall is not what he thinks it is; it’s something bigger. It stands for something bigger. It’s a science fiction show. What prompted the story?
Then what?
During November of my freshman year, I went to the Livingston Mall with two friends, Vineeth Kanpa and Paul Kim. We stopped at the Starbucks in Barnes & Noble. While we were eating, Vineeth said, “What if we made a show set in this mall?” For the next three or four hours, we brainstormed the idea. We figured out the name Cadburry that day, as well as 17 of the 25 named characters. For months we would sit at lunch, building it back and forth.
February of freshman year, I realized that Paul and Vineeth didn’t want to write the script, so I did. I wrote scene descriptions first, then a shot list and then the actual script. That’s not really how you’re supposed to write a script, but it worked for me. Then, in sophomore year, we started holding auditions for 22 roles. The three of us ran the school’s Short Film Production Club, and we used that to promote it. We started shooting the summer between sophomore and junior years and kept shooting throughout our time at school. I’ve probably spent over 2,000 hours on this project.
Why a mini-series and not a feature film?
The story really felt episodic. There were moments that felt like natural “ends of episodes” rather than moments in the middle of a movie. There’s was also the length—if
it was going to a movie, it would need to be two parts. I like it as a series. Where did you learn to do all this?
I’ve been using Adobe Premiere Pro, the video editing software, for nine years now. I taught myself through trial and error and YouTube videos. As for using the cameras, some of that was self-taught, and some was a class I took at SCAD last summer. I also had a lot of help.
Tell us about that.
My dad is the general manager of MB Productions, the company that handles video and audio broadcasting for places like Radio City Music Hall. He has access to a studio, where we filmed some of the stunts, and to people willing to help. I used the Short Film Production Club as a vessel to keep everything moving. A few teachers were also great, like Mr. [Jeffrey] Dunker—who taught AP Psychology and was the club’s advisor—I don’t think I could have done this without him.
How did you balance this project with schoolwork?
I didn’t overload myself or take seven AP classes or anything. I put most of my free time into Cadburry, and I don’t regret a thing.
A favorite behind-the-scenes moment?
Filming one of the stunts. As the actor performing it, I was in a harness connected to a wire on the ceiling so I could be pulled straight up. At one point, I was hanging in the air for like 10 minutes with the most painful wedgie. Everyone was dying of laughter.
A challenge?
Everything takes more time than you think it will. For instance, it took six months to get approval to shoot at the Livingston Mall. I didn’t take the best approach, because I didn’t know better.
A lesson?
You need to surround yourself with the right people, but not with too many people. Sometimes multiple creative minds can help, but if you only have three hours to get something done, having too many will be a detriment.
—Kirsten Meehan
Livingston’s Elliot Radler, 18, has written a mini-series, Cadburry , inspired by and shot in his hometown mall.
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HEALTH NEWS
SPORTS MAY SAFEGUARD KIDS’ MENTAL HEALTH
Physical activity in early childhood, especially taking part in organized sports, may ward off several mental health disorders in later childhood and adolescence, suggests research. Mental illness among children and teens has risen worldwide, with stress thought to be a trigger. Physical activity has been suggested for helping build resilience to stress and lowering the risks of such illness.
—British Journal of Sports Medicine
ENERGY DRINK INGREDIENT LINKED TO BLOOD CANCER
Taurine—an amino acid that occurs naturally in proteins like meat and fish and is a common ingredient in energy drinks— has been linked to the progression of leukemia, a blood cancer.
TEST FOR SOME CANCERS COULD LOWER PROGRESSION
A single blood test, designed to pick up chemical signals indicative of the presence of many different types of cancer, could potentially thwart progression to advanced disease while the malignancy is still at an early stage and treatable. Administering the multicancer early detection test, or MCED, either yearly or biennially, could improve outcomes for patients by intercepting disease progression, suggest the researchers.
OVERWORKING AND YOUR BRAIN
Working long hours may alter the structure of the brain, particularly the areas associated with emotional regulation and executive function, such as working memory and problemsolving, suggests a recent study. Researchers posit that overwork may induce neuroadaptive changes that affect cognitive and emotional health.
—Occupational & Environmental Medicine
CAN COLD SORES LEAD TO ALZHEIMER’S?
The virus responsible for cold sores around the mouth—herpes simplex 1, or HSV-1 for short—may have a key role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease, according to a large industry-funded U.S. study. However, treatment with antiviral therapy seems to be linked to a lower risk of this type of dementia, suggesting that treatment may be protective.
—BMJ Open
WHICH NON-SMOKERS DEVELOP COPD?
Women are about 50 percent more likely than men to develop chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the umbrella term for chronic lung conditions, such as emphysema and bronchitis, even if they have never smoked or smoked much less than their male counterparts, suggests a recent study. And women with COPD tend to have more severe symptoms and at a younger age than men.
—BMJ Open Respiratory Research
NOT-SOSWEET TRUTH ABOUT SUGAR
Researchers have found that added sugars, not the sugars that occur naturally in fruits, grains and dairy, accelerate aging by up to seven times its natural rate.
—University of California, San Francisco
—Compiled
by Paul Rance Jr.
—BMJ Open
‘Is
My Child Falling Behind? ’
DEVELOPMENTAL
MILESTONES TO MEASURE KIDS’ PROGRESS WERE MEANT TO ASSIST FAMILIES, NOT SCARE THEM. BUT SOMETIMES A WELL-MEANING PARENT CAN’T HELP BUT WORRY.
We all want to make sure our kids are growing up and learning “on schedule.” Still, children aren’t precision instruments— they don’t all develop on the same exact timetable. So the first thing to know about developmental milestones is that they’re meant to be a tool, not a tyranny. They can help spot any significant deviation from what is statistically typical—not to put a label on your child, but to make sure he or she gets the appropriate attention if a discrepancy points to other medical or developmental issues that ought to be addressed.
Standardized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the milestones assess skills children “should” have acquired and tasks they “should” be able to perform at certain ages. They measure whether a child is experiencing typical growth in specific categories: gross motor skills (using large muscles for fundamental movements such as walking, running and jumping), fine-motor skills (making precise movements with the hands and wrists), social skills and communication skills. (The CDC revised
Nonita Mittal, M.D., pediatrician, Summit Health
its standard milestones back in 2022; now, instead of placing a milestone at the age when 50 percent of children can complete a skill, it is placed when 75 percent of children can.)
Says Nonita Mittal, M.D., a Livingston-based pediatrician who practices through Summit Health: “Part of childcare is ensuring that all kids have a normal development. To track that, pediatricians use these developmental milestones. They are based on extensive research.”
The milestones can trigger anxiety in parents, particularly when their child isn’t hitting one at the exact prescribed time. However, “there’s some wiggle room,” says Dr. Mittal. “For example, when we say that a child should have a ‘social smile’ by 2 months, that just means that the majority of kids attain that milestone by then. It’s normal for a baby to have that from as early as 6 weeks. Your child might be an outlier, but still on a perfectly normal schedule for development.” And even if your child is a little bit behind in one milestone, it’s not necessarily a reason for grave concern. “It could be because of something like inadequate stimulation, floor time [time spent playing and moving around on the floor] or social interaction, rather than a neurological or muscular problem,” says the doctor. “Those are things we like to address first.”
While worries are often premature or needless, it’s important to have an open channel of communication with your doctor so that questions can be discussed—even if they turn out to be needless or “silly” ones. Says Dr. Mittal: “It is never too early to discuss any concerns about child development with your pediatrician.”
The doctor spoke with MORRIS & ESSEX about a few common milestone delays.
• Walking. The CDC’s new guidelines place this milestone at a year to 15 months old, and Dr. Mittal agrees. “If your child is not walking by 15 months, you should discuss it with your pediatrician,” she says. She adds that there are some common causes for walking delays, including “the child not having enough floor time at home, or too much support from parents who are not letting the child walk independently.” To avoid this, children should have three to four hours of floor time a day to play, according to the doctor, and parents should avoid toys like “walkers” or exercise saucers, both of which are common reasons for delayed walking. “Vitamin deficiencies like rickets can also cause delays,” says Dr. Mittal. Rickets results from a deficiency in vitamin D and calcium and can be
marked by soft bones that aren’t strong enough to walk on. Ensuring that your child has ample sources of these—sunshine and the correct baby formula, respectively—can help prevent this condition.
• Speaking. Children should say their first word by 1 year old, and have a few words in their vocabulary by 15 months, says the CDC. Before that, you can expect other forms of communication—babbling, cooing and gestures. If you don’t see this, there are many possible explanations. For instance, a child in a multilingual household will likely speak later; that’s normal and expected. Other causes include what our expert calls “insufficient stimulation.” “If a child isn’t hitting speaking milestones, we recommend more stimulation,” says Dr. Mittal. “For instance, in the early months of life, it is very important to talk to the child with his or her face very close to your face. That is how babies learn nonverbal communication, such as expressions, and how to move of their mouths for speech. Reading to your child is a great way to increase his or her vocabulary.” She cautions: “Screens cannot replace reading out loud or person-to-person interaction, and their overuse could cause delays. I recommend no screens at all until 2 years.”
• Fine-motor function. One of the most important fine-motor milestones of early childhood is the ability to grip and move objects between the fingers, as with holding and scribbling with a crayon or building with blocks. Dr. Mittal wants to see a mature grasp develop by a year or so, and CDC guidelines put scribbling at 18 months. “Learning to use fingers allows children to start performing daily activities, like independent eating, dressing and eventually writing and typing,” she says. Signs that a child is experiencing a fine-motor delay include not extending a hand to grasp toys and an inability to hold or to pick up food. Dr. Mittal also says that most fine-motor delays are caught between 6 and 12 months, and that they are “common.” “Most of the time, children just aren’t being exposed to these activities,” she explains. “These are the skills where I most often tell parents, ‘Go home. Try to do these things. Let your child do them on his or her own.’ And, most of the time, the kid is fine.”
• Emotions. It can be hard to gauge emotional or behavioral delays in kids. The CDC says that children should start expressing emotions at 15 months and notice emotions in others by 24 months. The latter point verges on the prime age for temper tantrums and outbursts, which can cause anxiety
in parents even if they are standard emotional reactions from children.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), common symptoms of which include difficulties with social communication and regulating emotion, is often diagnosed between 18 and 24 months. About this concern, Dr. Mittal says: “Watch out for whether the kid makes eye contact, and whether there is some kind of shared interaction with parents or shared excitement at something new. Does the child want to involve parents in his play? If you are not seeing that develop, it’s a cause for concern.”
Children are now screened at 9 months and 2 years for ASD using a standard questionnaire. For older kids, behavioral delays become a concern when they interfere with the child’s ability to go through daily activities such as play and school. Our expert offers two explanations for this: “Excessive screen time is associated with bad behavior,” she says, “and children model what they see. If parents model good behavior, a child will show good behavior, and vice versa.”
The doctor offers a possible solution in “focusing more on positive reinforcement than on negative reinforcement. Instead of punishment, if a child does wrong, stop the action and do a “time-out.” When the kid calms down, sit and explain what he or she did wrong. If you start yelling, instead of listening to you, the kid is going to learn that behavior and behave the same way next time.”
• When to be worried. Of course, sometimes developmental delays are signs of a more systematic issue. “For me, it’s a concern when a child hasn’t hit a milestone when 90 percent of other kids have achieved it,” says Dr. Mittal. “Or if they haven’t met multiple milestones in one category. If your child is hitting two or three out of four milestones for that age, I’m not worried. But if your child is not hitting any of the milestones, or only one out of four expected milestones, then I’m worried. There may be a neurological or muscular problem. In that case, time is of essence. Involve the experts early on. If you do have any concerns, get evaluated sooner than later.”
Dr. Mittal urges parents to stay informed. “Read about these developmental milestones and ask questions at well visits.” Her other advice? “Trust your instincts. If you feel that something is wrong, don’t wait. Family and friends are your first advisers. Talk to them and talk to your doctor. Early intervention can make all the difference.”
MEET 10
GREAT KIDS
Before you complain about today’s younger generation, check out the stellar accomplishments of these under-21s in our two counties.
We know; they’re on their phones too much. They have no patience, their attention spans are short, and they talk about TikTok trends none of us can keep up with in slang we don’t understand. But don’t write off Gen Z. Below, read about 10 local kids and ask yourself: Were you this responsible, productive and directed at their ages, back in the “good” old days?
“EN GARDE!”
Swordplay is mere child’s play with toys for most kids, but not for 12-yearold Alex Luo of Millburn, who will be a seventh grader at Livingston’s Newark Academy this fall. Alex is ranked first in Youth 12 épée fencing in the region (and second in the nation) by USA Fencing. During the 2024–25 season, he earned three gold medals, three silver medals and six bronze medals across both regional and national championships. He qualified to compete in the USA Fencing Summer Nationals in Milwaukee this past July, where he placed 10th out of 250 competitors. Alex began fencing at 5, when his father, Aaron, introduced him to the sport. He started taking classes at the New Jersey Fencing Alliance (NJFA) in Millburn, and has been climbing the ranks ever since, supported by NJFA coach Alejandra Terán (herself an Olympian) at home and his father on the road. Alex’s long-term goal is to be invited to represent the United States in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
SMILE POWER. Two heads are better than one, and nobody proves that more than Hope O’Connor and Reese Falcone, 17-year-old rising seniors at Mount St. Dominic Academy in Caldwell. Together, the best friends cohead the school’s Operation Smile Club, affiliated with the national organization of the same name that provides cleft-lip and palate-repair surgeries to children worldwide. They organized a Sending Hope drive to collect oral hygiene products, such as toothbrushes, toothpaste and mouthwash, to help children after they receive oral surgery. More than 200 hygiene products were collected and sent to Madagascar. That drive was highlighted by a member of Operation Smile’s board as an inspiration for other schools. “It’s amazing to work with an organization that impacts something outside my community and outside myself,” says Reese. Adds Hope: “So many of us stepped up. It was great to see people come together and help those in need.” Besides supply drives and fundraising efforts, the pair organizes the assembly of other care-package materials, such as customized T-shirts and bracelets, during their weekly club meetings. They are also co-chairs of the school’s Dominican Preachers organization, which allows students to serve the community and hone their preaching skills.
SPORTS AND A CAUSE.
Being a student athlete requires a large time commitment, but Glen Ridge’s John Leone, a 17-year-old rising senior who plays both varsity football and lacrosse, found time to do more. In 2023 he and his friend Kieran Leiber founded Athletes for Good, which helps student athletes perform community volunteer projects—visiting local nursing homes, mentoring younger kids and running donation drives, for example. John volunteers at both Van Dyk Nursing Home in Montclair and West Caldwell Care Group, spending time with the seniors, besides helping with food and coat drives and community cleanups.
“We’ve made it known in our town that if something needs to get done, we’re the ones to call—whether that’s setting up for an 8K run or helping senior citizens shovel their driveways,” says John. He has been awarded the U.S. Congressional Bronze Medal, one of the highest civilian honors for youth in the country, for his commitment to volunteer service. John is now working on a handbook to help bring Athletes for Good to other schools.
SIDELINE
SENSATION.
You needn’t be an athlete to star on the field. Kyan Bashkoff of West Orange, 16, is making his mark a different way: sports medicine. The rising junior has logged more than 1,000 hours with the West Orange High School sports medicine program, where he works with student athletes, learns field-side emergency aid and assists with everything from evaluations to rehab and recovery. He also helps manage the athletic training room, serves as a student leader in the program and has revitalized its Instagram page. “Being there from the moment an injury happens—on the sidelines or in the training room—and then helping someone through their recovery process, until they return to doing what they love, is so rewarding,” says Kyan. This summer he worked several internships at local physical therapy practices so he could be exposed to different specialties. He hopes to work one day for a major sports team, and highlights West Orange athletic trainers Eugene Palatianos and Ashley Sivo for their support.
GLOBAL GRAPPLER.
Parsippany’s Scarlett Lucchese, an incoming high school freshman, is quickly making a name for herself in wrestling, here and around the world. Scarlett won the U.S. Marine Corps Women’s National Championship in Spokane, Washington, this spring. Seeded No. 3 in the 135-pound class in the 14U division, Lucchese defeated the secondand first-ranked wrestlers to capture the title. The national championship came one week after she earned a medal at the Tallinn Open in Estonia. With competitors from 41 countries, the open is the largest wrestling tournament in Europe. “My wins mean a lot to me,” she says. “I work really hard, and it reminds me how far I’ve come. My goal is to win high school states next year, and I’d like to do more international competitions.”
Since age 9, she has been training with her coach at Fairfield’s Scorpions Wrestling School, Omar Feliciano. “She has continued to improve every year and is reaching the milestones that we have set together on a yearly basis,” Feliciano says. The allure of this activity isn’t just the thrill of victory, Scarlett explains. It’s also “getting to travel and see new places.”
HONORING THE PAST. Steven Alexander, 18, of South Orange, takes legacy seriously. Since his freshman year at Columbia High School in Maplewood, he has been a part of the school’s Hall of Fame Committee, and he’s been its chair as a junior and senior. During his senior year, he helped plan the CHS Hall of Fame’s 40th anniversary celebration, which gathered and honored notable alumni, including actor Andrew Shue, musician Lauryn Hill and influencer Marques Brownlee. That year was challenging—thanks to a mid-year switch in faculty advisors, much of the responsibility for pulling off the celebration fell on the students. “We worked hard,” says Steven, who recalls meeting the alumni as “surreal.”
“Legacy is incredibly important to me,” he explains, “not in terms of leaving my personal mark, but because I was able to advance the work created by others.” Steven will attend the University of Texas at Austin in the fall, majoring in philosophy. He hopes to become a lawyer.
BLASTING OFF. “It’s not rocket science,” we say when an endeavor isn’t mentally challenging. But we can’t say that to Montville’s Makayo “Mak” Cheung, Chase Eagan and Thomas Jenkins. They’re the Boy Scout Troop 74 Rocketeers, a team that won first place in the International Rocketry Challenge at the International Paris Air Show in June. The boys advanced as the global competition’s sole U.S. entry after winning the American Rocketry Challenge National Finals in May. They beat 1,000 other teams— some with as many as 10 members—at the nationals, earning a $20,000 prize by engineering the top-scoring rocket that met precise altitude and flight-time targets. Working together as friends on a small team gave them an advantage over the other squads. Makayo, 15, a rising sophomore at Delbarton School in Morristown, helped form the team three years ago with a larger group of scouts, but he, Chase and Thomas “got more serious with it.” They have been working on the same rocket style since the club’s beginning, making improvements for three years. Notes Thomas, 15, a rising sophomore at Montville Township High School: “Having a strong friendship made it easier to work well together and not hold back.” Chase, a rising senior at Delbarton, says the smaller team made a big difference. “We heard from larger teams that they break up the different components of the rocket and each team member has a different role,” he says. “We can’t do that since we’re on a small team, so we all understand everything.” What’s next for these aspiring engineers? They’ve qualified to submit a proposal for the prestigious National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Student Launch initiative, which if accepted would land them a spot at a launch in Huntsville, Alabama, next year.
LOOK SMART!
Shopping for a student, hitting the campus yourself—or both?
School yourself on 5 hot style trends.
People shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, but they do. And they size you up by your appearance too. In the classroom, knowledge matters more than looks. Yet why not rate an “A” in both categories? The tradition of “back-to-school” fashion offers an annual chance to wipe the blackboard clean and embrace a new sartorial you. Here’s what’s on the style curriculum for fall ’25:
WALK ON THE WILD SIDE
Animal prints continue to have their moment. Bold, timeless and bursting with personality, these patterns effortlessly elevate even the simplest outfits to something head-turning and special. Go bold and pair a leopard-print top with black slacks or leggings, add an extra bit of flair to a jeans-and-T-shirt ensemble with a zebra-print bag or embrace your inner femme fatale with a dress or skirt in cheetah print. (And, for each of these outfits, the black boot is your friend.) Want something more subtle? A printed ballet flat or a great headband can ease you into this trend and provide an extra touch of fun.
Leopard Print Midi Dress meandem.com
SPORTY CHIC
Comfort and style join up in this season’s athleisure offerings, which are all about bringing together gym-class looks and chic high fashion. (No surprise with the growing number of eyes on women’s sports stars—we all saw the WNBA’s Angel Reese at the Met Gala.) This trend is perfect for the days when you can’t bear to wear anything other than your sweats but also want to seem more put-together. Add a cute white sweater over a tank top and leggings or shrug a track top over a more tailored pair of pants. For a bolder look, grab your gym hoodie and try it with a midi skirt for something dressed-down, stylish and cozy.
973.381.1771
STANDING STRONG
Who can get enough of the bold silhouette of a good wide-legged pant? This cut is amazingly versatile and can be styled for anything from a casual coffee date (add a tank top, a cropped jacket and clog-style shoes), to an afternoon watching movies with friends (grab a pair in a knitted material for perfect stylish loungewear) to a more formal gathering (add a blazer and a low boot, and you’ll turn heads). Pro tip: Because of the wide cut and tailoring of these pants, make sure you opt for a more fitted look on top. This is the time to reach for your tighter tanks and more structured jackets.
Dance Studio Mid-Rise Jogger, Full Length, lululemon, Short Hills,
“Don’t overthink it.” That mantra is at the heart of a minimalist look, where less is more and simplicity shines through. If you’re longing to get all you can out of a few good-quality pieces that mix and match effortlessly—and if you’re taken by the “quiet luxury” aesthetic of celebrities like Hailey Bieber—then this is the style for you, with its clean lines and neutral color palette. To pull it off, grab a pair of straight-legged pants in a brown or a khaki and a structured top in black, white or brown. Keep your accessories simple and sophisticated—a maroon handbag, for instance, or silver stud earrings.
DOUBLE DENIM
Once thought to be a serious fashion faux pas, the “Canadian tuxedo,” as it’s been dubbed, is having its day. There are a few ways you can pull off this look, and the first step to all of them is to silence the voice in your mind that tells you, “No.” Then make sure you’re pairing two of the same washes of denim to keep your look cohesive. Next, layering is your friend to give the look more dimension—wear a white T-shirt or a tank top under an open denim shirt or jacket, or add an eye-catching belt.
High Rise Vintage Slim Corduroy Pants, Gap Factory, Newark, 973.848.0281
Getting Ready For ‘DOG DAY’
AT THE SEEING EYE, BREEDERS AND INSTRUCTORS STRIVE TO MAKE THE BEST MATCHES BETWEEN GUIDE DOGS AND THE HUMANS WHO WILL RELY ON THEM. THEN THE MOMENT OF MEETING ARRIVES.
On 62 acres off Washington Valley Road in Morris Township, miracles happen. It’s there that The Seeing Eye—the 96-year-old nonprofit that pioneered the training of Seeing Eye dogs in America—matches canine candidates to the blind and visually impaired people who depend on them to live fully and independently.
All of The Seeing Eye’s dogs are bred on site, in a process based on decades of research into what sort of animals make for the best guide dogs. “We’re looking for dogs of medium size, with a willingness to please, a drive to guide, a sensitive nature that allows them to be somewhat verbally controlled—quiet dogs that enjoy human companionship and just thrive in the job,” says Brian McKenna, The Seeing Eye’s Wohlers Family Foundation master instructor. (The foundation’s donations help to fund not just The Seeing Eye as a whole but also McKenna’s position.) The breeds that most fit that bill are German shepherds, Labrador retrievers and golden retrievers.
McKenna’s job is to train the trainers—or “instructors,” as they’re called at The Seeing Eye. The hands-on apprenticeship program lasts for three years, during which instructors-in-training work with their own dogs and their own students— The Seeing Eye’s term for the clients who will eventually bond with a dog and take him or her home. (Dogs of both genders can make excellent guides.) For each dog, the training period is at least four months and takes place in the instructor’s
home. About 60 percent of the dogs turn out to have the right stuff to make it through the program. The 40 percent that don’t pass muster—who, say, are easily distracted by other dogs or the occasional squirrel, react fearfully to an everyday object (like blowing leaves), or just don’t seem to enjoy the job they’re being trained for—are offered back to the families who raised them or adopted out.
After they’ve been trained, the dogs are matched with students based mostly on the pace with which they guide and the strength of pull they provide. Once a student’s preferences are established, there are likely to be several potential matches. If that’s the case, the final decision is made after weighing factors such as the dog’s personality, the student’s personality and the student’s life overall, including considerations such as housing, family, typical commutes and what the student is looking for in an animal who’s destined to become a close family member.
The journey doesn’t end once the match is made. Students attend a 25-day class (18 days if they’ve had a Seeing Eye dog in the past), living on campus and meeting their dogs on day three.
Dog Day, as it’s known around campus, is what instructors live for—and, to a small extent, dread. Most would agree with McKenna when he says: “It’s just an amazing moment, and as long as I do this here, I think it will always be one of my favorite moments.” The hand-off takes place in the student’s room, where he or she will be sitting
BY LESLIE GARISTO PFAFF
on the bed, leash in hand, arms open wide. The instructor will describe the dog as it’s walked toward the student, “and then the dog,” McKenna says, “just walks right into that open hug.”
Tears flow. Students are often overwhelmed, in the most joyful way. And instructors are both thrilled to see their hard (and yes, happy) work come to fruition and not a little saddened to say goodbye to the animals they’ve come to love over the four-month training period. For the next two and a half weeks, instructors don’t interact with their former dogs, who don’t always understand the protocol. “For the first couple of days,” says McKenna, “the dog is trying to get to us because we’re still there, we’re standing behind them as the students are working with and getting to know them.” But as the days pass, as the students feed and massage and groom and play with their dogs, those dogs, in McKenna’s words, “slowly fall in love, turning toward their students and no longer looking back at us.”
He admits that it’s a bittersweet moment, leavened, in the end, by the knowledge that the student being trained is doing what’s needed to win the dog’s allegiance. “The relationship works,” says McKenna, “because of love and respect. These dogs work for our students and the instructors because of the love and respect we give them, and they give it back with their thoughtful, safe and cautious guide work”—an everyday miracle that’s been occurring in Morris Township on a regular basis for nearly a century now.
Clockwise, from top left: A Seeing Eye dog and its student train with an instructor for three years. Instructors Dan Hedden and Jackie Poshkus with their Seeing Eye candidates.
A WIN FOR WINDOWS
PROMINENT VIEWS OF THE OUTDOORS, ALONG WITH VIBRANT ART, HELP GIVE A HARDING RANCH HOME A RELAXED, LIVABLE FEEL.
Design by Megan Pisano
Photography by Julia D’Agostino
Text by Nayda Rondon
Walking into the living room of a contemporary raised ranch in Harding is an instant mood lifter. Designed by Megan Pisano, of Chatham-based Megan Pisano Design, it has “happy” stamped all over it.
“The homeowners envisioned a space that balanced a touch of funk with a relaxed, effortless vibe that felt both stylish and livable,” Pisano says. Those clients found her on Instagram and hired her in 2022 to do their window treatments before tapping her a year later to work on the living room.
When the family moved into the home in March 2022, the awkward space was begging for purpose and connection. “We used to call it the bowling alley because it’s so long and narrow,” says the homeowner. “I knew I wanted to break the space into two distinct spaces. It had to be kid-friendly, but also a great place for grown-ups to hang out. I hired Megan to help me implement the whole thing.
“Megan has great attention to detail, but doesn’t overdesign,” the homeowner continues. “I wanted the big picture windows to continue to be the focal point. We felt that the interior should flow naturally into the outdoors and, although it should be visually interesting, it shouldn’t take away from the outdoor beauty.”
The project took six months, from July 2023 to January 2024. Making the most of the wealth of windows and a glass-paneled door, Pisano blurred the lines to create a sunroommeets-living-room space that seamlessly connects the surrounding landscape as it enhances the home’s natural light and flow. “This room is directly connected to the main living area, so we wanted it to feel cohesive, but also a little airier and more relaxed; a space where you
“It’s a space where style meets everyday comfort, perfectly suited for the family’s busy lifestyle,” says designer Megan Pisano of the living room/sunroom project she created for the owners of a 7,000-square-foot raised ranch in Harding. Adds the homeowner: “Whether there’s a party or a kid doing homework on the sofa, this room gets the most use, second only to the kitchen. It’s truly the heart of our home.”
could kick back with coffee in the morning, read a book in the afternoon sun or host friends in the evening,” the designer says.
Except for the homeowners’ artwork and vintage accents like the mirror over the fireplace, all of the pieces were freshly curated by Pisano. “I named the project ‘a little of this and a little of that,’ because it truly brought together a mix of elements—color, pattern and playful touches—in a way that felt cohesive and fun,” she says. “The home’s bright, airy and open layout provided the perfect backdrop for a design that reflects the client’s funky, music-loving style, especially through artwork.”
The blue-and-white print armchairs from Serena & Lily helped set the coastal-inspired vibe. “They’re playful yet sophisticated; everything else in the room was chosen to complement and elevate that statement,” says Pisano.
Functionality was key for the homeowners, busy professionals with a big, blended family (from college-age kids to a baby who turned 1 in August) and two dogs. “People are constantly in and out, so we focused on creating a space that was essentially ‘people-proof,’ meaning it can handle the hustle and bustle of family life without sacrificing style,” says the designer. “The result is a design that’s nearly indestructible, but still warm, inviting and aesthetically pleasing.”
Case in point: The Rowe Derby sofa facing the fireplace is bright and solid enough to lift the room with a commanding presence, but super-comfy and practical too. In the other seating section across the room, the four Made Goods chairs are an attractive blend of style and practicality.
Pisano incorporated novel elements that held history and significance for the homeowners. “The mirror over the fireplace has that vintage character that adds depth and warmth, while still working with the more contemporary elements in the room,” she says.
The mixed-media art over the sofa is both a conversation starter and a nod to the homeowners’ love of the arts. “My clients are passionate music lovers, so this striking piece was the perfect finishing note,” Pisano says.
Adds the homeowner: “We wanted something warm, inviting, functional, and [Megan] was able to deliver. She took our vision and made it a reality.”
This page: The Johnny Taylor music-themed art is from the Parlor Gallery in Asbury Park. “It adds personality and meaning to the space, while also providing a bold contrast to the sofa,” the designer says. Opposite: Crafted by Kelley Brill of Moorestown-based A Cook’s Room, the custom, built-in bar features satin brass mesh, sleek metal shelves, Emtek hardware and a Calacatta Classique quartz countertop.
Pasta Perfect
Want a break from barbecue?
Go Italian with a laid-back yet elegant party, big on flavor, that celebrates a humble ingredient.
If you’d like to create a different vibe for your next outdoor get-together, a pasta party may be the answer. In her latest book, Swing By!: Entertaining Recipes & the New Art of Gathering, entertaining expert Stephanie Nass offers advice on how to make pasta the star of your show, using that comfort food not only for the main dish but also as inspiration for cocktails, table décor—and even a wearable accessory. Flip through for recipes and a few tips—as well as thoughts from Patricia Rosner, a Morristown-based party planner—for a festive and fun pasta party.
FARFALLE-MEATBALL BITES
Yields 8 servings
“At this party, guests were greeted with Farfalle Bites: mini grape-size meatballs, a basil leaf and a farfalle bow on a toothpick with homemade tomato sauce for dipping,” says Nass. “Mini anything is cute, but especially meatballs.”
INGREDIENTS
n ½ lb. farfalle, cooked
al dente the day of serving, tossed with olive oil and laid in a single layer on baking sheets
n ½ lb. ground beef
n ¼ lb. ground veal
n 1 large egg yolk
n 1½ tsp. kosher salt
n 15 fresh basil leaves, halved
n ½ to 1 cup homemade tomato sauce, for dipping
DIRECTIONS
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the beef, veal, yolk and salt. Roll the meatballs into grape-size balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes. Let rest until cool enough to handle.
On a toothpick, skewer 1 piece farfalle with 1 basil leaf and 1 meatball. Arrange on serving platter with the warm tomato sauce. Serve immediately.
This page: Mini-meatball skewers with farfalle, basil and a tomato sauce dip are easy to assemble and can be a fun twist on traditional spaghetti and meatballs. An Italian-inspired tablecloth adds to the pasta-party theme. Fresh basil in a simple container can do double duty—it can serve as a centerpiece, and when snipped it’s a tasty garnish. Opposite: Entertaining expert Stephanie Nass suggests using ingredients not just for food, but also for a beautiful table arrangement.
Even pasta parties need light sides. A caprese salad with heirloom tomatoes is a refreshing option, or try burrata with grilled peaches and a balsamic glaze. And don’t forget to serve sips to match. Chilled Italian wine or a signature cocktail would please the crowd—try a limoncello spritz or a sparkling water with lemon and cucumber as a nonalcoholic option.”
—Patricia Rosner, Parties With Patty, Morristown
VODKA SAUCE BLOODY MARY
Yields 8 servings
“This drink is more than just delicious; it’s clever. The ‘vodka sauce’ is, of course, a play on the iconic pasta dish, and the oregano and red chili flakes play it up,” Nass says.
INGREDIENTS
n 4 cups vodka
n 4 cups tomato juice
n 5 Tbs. freshly squeezed lemon juice
n 1 tsp. dried oregano
n 2 Tbs. red chili flakes (optional, for rim)
n ice
n 8 fresh basil leaves, for garnish
DIRECTIONS
In a pitcher, combine the vodka, tomato juice, 4 tablespoons of the lemon juice and the oregano. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
If making the chili flake rim, pour the remaining 1 tablespoon lemon juice into a shallow bowl and put the chili flakes on a shallow plate. Dunk the rim of each tumbler into the lemon juice and then into the chili flakes, turning to coat.
When ready to serve, add ice to each prepared tumbler, stir the cocktail and evenly distribute among the glasses. Garnish with a basil leaf.
This page: Earrings adorned with farfalle are a versatile accessory—they can be worn throughout the event or used as table décor. Meatballs too can be enjoyed in different ways, either as an appetizer or with the main course. Opposite: The party isn’t complete without a pasta-inspired cocktail.
All recipes and photos are reprinted with permission from Swing By!: Entertaining Recipes & the New Art of Gathering by Stephanie Nass (Rizzoli New York, 2024). Photography by Stockton Johnson.
READERS’ CHOICE
WHO BETTER THAN YOU, OUR READERS, TO TELL US THE COUNTIES’ TOP RESTAURANTS, SHOPS AND SERVICES? READ ON TO SEE WHO YOU VOTED BEST OF THE BEST IN 2025.
NEW RESTAURANT
NOSTRANA RISTORANTE, BOONTON
BAKERY
Sorrento Bakery, 36 Eagle Rock Ave., East Hanover, 973.887.4442; sorrentobakery.com In March 2025, this bakery celebrated its 50-year anniversary, and you can almost taste all those years of expertise in every cake, pastry, bread or cookie you pick up. Whether you’re looking for a custom cake to mark an occasion, the perfect loaf for a charcuterie spread or the pastry assortment that will make you the office hero, this is the place to go.
Photo courtesy of Sorrento Bakery
RESTAURANTS & FOOD
BAGELS
FIRST PLACE
Hot Bagels Abroad
1129 Broad St. Bloomfield 973.338.9616 bagelsabroad.com
Burgers & Shakes 598 Valley Rd. Montclair 973.893.5805 dananddays.com
Krug’s Tavern 118 Wilson Ave. Newark 973.465.9795 krugstavernnj.com
SECOND PLACE
The Committed Pig 28 W. Park Pl. Morristown 862.260.9292 thecommittedpig.com
THIRD PLACE
The Second Half on Main 5 E. Main St. Denville 973.784.4040 secondhalfonmain.com
BUTCHER
FIRST PLACE
Chester Meat Market 27 Main St. Chester 908.879.7523 chestermeatmarket.com
Sussex Meat Packing 219 N. Main St. Wharton 973.361.2600 sussexmeat.com
BURGER
Dan & Day’s Burgers & Shakes, 598 Valley Rd., Montclair, 973.893.5805; dananddays.com
Led by a husband/wife duo with deep ties to Montclair, Dan & Day’s continues to impress with some seriously special burgers and commitment to grass-fed beef for top-notch flavor and sustainability. If the bacon jam burger or the chipotle BBQ bacon cheeseburger aren’t catching your eye, try something more special, like the wagyu smash burger piled high with sautéed onions and pickles.
SECOND PLACE
Green Village Packing Co. 68 Britten Rd. Green Village 973.377.0875 greenvillagepacking.com
Shop-Rite Multiple locations
BYO RESTAURANT
FIRST PLACE Guerriero’s 90 South St. Morristown 973.267.5055 guerrieros.com
The Pasta Shop 13 First Ave. Denville 973.253.4143 thepastashopdenville.com
SECOND PLACE Gourmet Café 136 Baldwin Rd. Parsippany 973.316.0088 gourmetcafe.nj.com
THIRD PLACE
La Cucina 278 Diamond Spring Rd. Denville 973.627.6200 lacucina-denville.com
Portofino’s 29 Mills St. Morristown 973.540.0026 portofinosrestaurant.com
China City 37 N. Beverwyck Rd. Lake Hiawatha 973.299.1008
COFFEE HOUSE
FIRST PLACE
Boonton Coffee Co. 602 Main St. Boonton 862.261.0228 boontoncoffee.com
Cozz Coffee 727 Joralemon St. Belleville cozzcoffeeroasting.com
Java Love Coffee Roasters Multiple locations
COFFEE HOUSE
Boonton Coffee Co., 602 Main St., Boonton, 862.261.0228; boontoncoffee.com
The simple, sleek storefront in downtown Boonton is a nod to this shop’s ethos—everything here is warm, welcoming and uncomplicated. The beans are roasted on site for the best, richest flavor, with options ranging from the deepest dark roast to fruity or chocolatey, meaning every drink will be exactly to your taste. It also hosts a whole range of events, from the high-profile “Boonton Coffee Presents” to casual, walkin open mics.
A mainstay on “Best Of” lists all over the state, this is Montclair favorite specializes in chic eating, unique wines and craft cocktails and French-inspired fare. The menu is updated seasonally so everything is as fresh as possible, and includes options such as tarte flambée, tilefish and lobster and coq au vin (chicken braised in red wine). Dessert? Don’t pass up the passion fruit vacherin.
With a warm, inviting dining room and an authentic menu, this Bloomfield eatery puts the best Greece at your fingertips. From traditional moussaka and arni kokkinisto to a classic gyro platter or a Greek-style burger, the dishes here are flavorful and doled out in generous portions. Pro tip: This spot also caters, so you can bring those same flavors to your next party or gathering.
Sit down at one of the lively hibachi tables and watch your meal come together right before your eyes, or enjoy a more low-key dinner and opt for fresh sushi. For instance, you can try both classics like a salmon or a spicy tuna roll, or one of the house specialties such as the “hard rock roll” with shrimp tempura, eel, crab meat, avocado and sweet and spicy sauce. The beautiful outdoor patio makes this a great option for warm-weather dining.
We know pizza in New Jersey, and Essex’s best slice lives up to the hype. The Napoletana slices at this Fairfield mainstay are done to perfection—soft, pillowy crust, perfect sauce and melty cheese. It’s fresh, it’s simple and it’s a formula that never fails. For more bells and whistles, try a pie with pepperoni and hot honey (we’re suckers for hot honey on pizza), or one with burrata, sweet sausage and sautéed broccoli rabe. We’ll take two slices, please! * – Not located
Roma Pizza 709 Main St. Boonton 973.335.1614 romapizzaofboonton.com
SECOND PLACE
Reservoir Tavern 92 Parsippany Blvd. Boonton
973.334.5708 therestavern.com
Star Tavern 400 High St. Orange
973.675.3336 startavern.net
Uncle Giuseppe’s 1171 Rte. 10
Morris Plains
862.242.8320 uncleg.com
THIRD PLACE
Café Crevier
25 E. Main St. Denville 973.453.7200 cafecrevier.com
La Strada 355 Millburn Ave Millburn 973.467.3420 lastradarestaurant menu.com
Parsippany’s
Best Pizza 756 Rte. 46 Parsippany 973.335.4450 parsippanysbestpizza.com
This Morris Plains favorite takes the frills out of steakhouse dining and instead impresses with amazing cuts cooked to perfection and a spread of sides you can’t pass up. The steaks here are huge, juicy and often dry-aged, and served with mashed potatoes and sautéed garlic broccoli. Other side options include sautéed mushrooms, sautéed onions, coleslaw and asparagus. Baby back ribs, New York strip, filet mignon—now is the time to indulge your inner carnivore.
Ombra, 516 Main St., Boonton, 201.367.1196; ombraboonton.com
They say we first eat with our eyes, so logic dictates that the same goes for drinking. Colorful and artful with a touch of whimsy, Ombra’s cocktails include classics done to perfection and new takes on favorite flavors. The best part? They taste just as good as they look. For proof, try an option such as Ticket to Paradise (tequila, kiwi, banana, honey and lime).
Photo courtesy of Ombra
ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE
CRAFT COCKTAILS
FIRST PLACE
Ombra 516 Main St. Boonton
201.367.1196 ombraboonton.com
SECOND PLACE
The Laundromat
4 Dehart St. Morristown
973.745.3508 thelaundromatbar.com
THIRD PLACE
Stirling Tavern 150 South St. Morristown 973.993.8066 stirlingtavern.com
Gingerbread Bookshop 410 Main St. Boonton 973.352.7926 gingerbreadbookshop. com
THIRD PLACE
Old Book Shop 4 John St. Morristown 973.538.1210 oldbookshop morristown.com
THEATER
Mayo Performing Arts Center, 100 South St., Morristown, 973.539.8008; mayoarts.org
The beating heart of Morristown’s vibrant arts scene, MPAC’s stage has hosted world-famous entertainers, renowned New Jersey organizations and emerging, dynamic new performers. There’s something for everyone here, from comedians to movie sing-alongs, jazz and ballet ensembles to rock and hip-hop stars, expert panels to experiences. For those interested in classes and programs, check out MPAC’s Performing Arts School.
BRIDAL BOUTIQUE
FIRST PLACE I Do… I Do… 35 South St. Morristown 973.998.6215 idoido.com
SECOND PLACE
Rita Rose Bridal
Boutique 22 Diamond Spring Rd. Denville 973.627.7773 ritarosebridal boutique.com
CHILDREN’S
airesjewelers.com
Braunschweiger Jewelers 33 South St. Morristown 973.538.2189 braunschweiger.com
Linda’s Florist 36 Farley Pl. Short Hills 973.379.2188 lindaflorist.com
Lola’s Floral Boutique 4A Main Rd. Montville 973.588.3220 lolasfloralnj.com
THIRD PLACE
Flowers by Rene 114 N. Beverwyck Rd. Lake Hiawatha 973.316.8335 flowersbyrene.com
Flowers from Hannah 1098 Mt. Kemble Ave. Morristown 973.425.9443 flowersfromhannah.com
GIFT SHOP
FIRST PLACE 23 South Boutique 23 South St. Morristown 973.590.2500
PET BOUTIQUE
Four Paws Annex, 54 Main St., Chester, 908.888.3134; fourpaws-inn.com
Who among us doesn’t want to spoil our pets? This family- owned boutique ensures that every service—whether it’s training, boarding or walking—will make your four-legged friend feel his or her best. With a mission statement promising to “focus on pet emotional and physical well-being” and “a holistic and positive approach to help you and your dog live elevated lives,” this one-stop shop is a haven for training, treats, apparel, toys and more.
SHOPPING DESTINATION
FIRST PLACE
The Mall at Short Hills 1200 Morris Tpke. Short Hills 973.376.7350 shopshorthills.com
Racks Valley
Boutique 20 Schooleys Mountain Rd. Long Valley 908.867.8598
Look and feel your best at this oasis in the heart of Denville. Choose treatments tailored to your needs, whether it’s a fullbody or a targeted massage, a facial to rejuvenate your skin, a waxing to keep you looking your best or a sauna session to soothe both body and soul. Pro tip: For a perfect day, add aromatherapy or targeted CBD or magnesium cream treatments.
SECOND PLACE
Stella Valentine Salon 59 E. Mill Rd. Long Valley 908.876.0001 stellavalentinesalon.com
THIRD PLACE
Bloom 2 Maple Ave. Morristown 973.292.3377 bloommorristown.com
All Creatures Great and Small 89 Diamond Spring Rd. Denville 973.625.3641 allcreaturesdenville.com
Werner Animal Hospital 659 Tabor Rd. Morris Plains 973.540.1433 wernerah.com
WRITE-IN CATEGORIES
CAR DEALERSHIP
FIRST PLACE
Autosport Acura of Denville 3109 Rte. 10 Denville
973.361.2626 acuraofdenville.com
DOG WALKING
FIRST PLACE Viva La Pet 973.255.9775 vivalapet.net
* – Not located in Morris or Essex counties
SPLASH APPEAL ESCAPES
If you think anything beats a water park for sheer refreshment in summer’s waning days, you’re all wet.
When it’s hot and humid and the kids are tired of sand, try a water park. Let your tribe feel the refreshing spray and splash away at one of these family-friendly attractions, and you’ll understand quickly why even though summer can’t last, there’ll be no erasing the fond memories it creates. Happily, five great water parks are within an easy drive of our counties:
DREAMWORKS WATERPARK AT AMERICAN DREAM, EAST RUTHERFORD
About 40 minutes away by car, Bergen County is home to the largest indoor waterpark in North America within the American Dream mall, and all the rides are themed around familiar characters from your favorite DreamWorks movies. Here, you can let the little ones run wild in the Kungfu Panda Temple of Awesomeness, a multi-level play structure with tipping buckets, geysers, child-sized slides and more. And don’t let the cartoon theming fool you (though, let’s be honest, none of us are too good for Shrek)—this park has just as many thrills for adults. The Thrillagascar and Jungle Jammer slides, for instance, are the world’s tallest indoor, trapdoor capsule slides and will send you down a 14-story drop. Or grab a friend and go down the two-person Speeding Frenzy flume ride. Just want to hang? This spot boasts the world’s largest indoor wave pool and a fantastic lazy river. Where to eat: The mall puts fantastic dining options right at your fingertips. There are, of course, all the classic food court staples if you’re looking for something fast on the way out (and check out Poki Poke if you’re looking to skip on the fried food), but American Dream’s sit-down options are can’t-miss. Try a Korean tradition with Little Sheep Hot Pot, where you cook your choice of meat, seafood and vegetables at your table in boiling broth to create a unique soup. Craving small bites instead? Mozzarella Bar offers artisan cheese and charcuterie, plus a trendy cocktail menu. More info: americandream.com
SIX FLAGS HURRICANE HARBOR, JACKSON
New Jersey’s best-known theme park has more than just roller coasters. Its adjoining water park, Hurricane Harbor, offers just as much fun and just as many thrills, all while ensuring that you stay cool in the hot summer sun. Plus, it’s only about a 90-minute drive from Morris and Essex counties. There’s something here for every taste—families with small children will love Splash Island, a giant splash pad and jungle gym created with the youngest guests in mind. Those with older children or visiting with a large group of friends will enjoy rides like Big Bambu and Reef Runner, where four people can ride one raft down a giant slide. And there are lots of single-person slides with heart-stopping drops, such as the Bada Bing, Bada Bang and Bada Boom. Plus, you can rent a full cabana at the park for a full day of hanging.
Where to eat: Options for food within this park abound, ranging from wings and burgers to sausage sandwiches and cheesesteaks to dessert. If you’re looking to end the day with a more classic meal, leave the park and try nearby Solo Bella Brick Oven Bistro. This spot puts what its proprietors call “a contemporary flare” (and yes, that’s how they spell it) to Italian-American eats, and its signature dish is a 12-inch, woodfire pizza with near-endless options for toppings. More info: sixflags.com
MOUNTAIN CREEK WATER PARK, VERNON
About an drive from here, this spot is a ski destination in the winter. In the summertime, the water park comes alive. Its rides and thrills are iconic locally: the rough and twisting California River Rapids, the all-black and dark Cannonball Falls slide, which ends in a drop straight into deep water, and, of course, the park’s most famous attraction, H2Oh!-No, where you plummet 99 feet in an almostvertical drop. This is a destination ideal for older children and adults looking for some fun with friends. It’s not without any options for the little ones, though, with a large wave pool and the Lil’ Dippers and Fishing Village attractions. It’s also built into the ski mountain, as its name implies, and is surrounded by beautiful scenery. Where to eat: Try The Crystal Café, a short drive away from the park, for a cozy atmosphere and all your diner favorites. You can order breakfast all day (the Oreo pancakes are highly recommended) or opt for a Reuben, a chicken parm sandwich or the restaurant’s special “Cornfather sandwich” with corned beef and Swiss cheese. On your way home, swing by Dairy Swirl for some out-of-this-world ice cream, often featured on local “Best-of” lists. More info: mountaincreek.com
SPLASHDOWN BEACH WATER PARK, FISHKILL, N.Y.
Billing itself as “America’s Biggest Little Waterpark,” this attraction is about an hour and a half away in New York’s Dutchess County. It offers New York’s largest water playground/ splash pad, with four smaller waterslides and a 500-gallon dumping bucket, which fills up slowly and then soaks everyone below. You can also chill out on the lazy river ride, where you’ll float under fountains and over geysers, so you never overheat. For more adrenaline, you can rocket down the Humunga Half-Pipe, a “zero gravity” half-pipe attraction that will launch you over four stories into the air, or rocket down the 600-foot-long Arctic Mammoth raft ride. There’s also a beach area with real sand and a good, old-fashioned pool if you just want to kick back next to the water.
Where to eat: For both indoor and outdoor dining options, head over to Feeling Kinda Kozy for a laid-back dining room and a menu that will please adults and children alike. Grilled octopus, truffle rice balls and lobster mac & cheese will satisfy more refined palates, or you can pick a classic burger or cheesesteak. There’s also an extensive beer, wine and craft cocktail menu (perhaps that lychee martini and blood-orange old fashioned?) if you want to cap off a day of fun with a few great sips. More info: splashdownbeach.com
CLEMENTON PARK & SPLASH WORLD, CLEMENTON
You’ll find the largest wave pool in South Jersey about two hours away from Morris and Essex. Clemonton Splash World also boasts the Vertical Limit, a six-lane, head-first slide where you can race to the bottom and see who comes out victorious. Or jump on a tube and try the Viper, a fully enclosed, twisting and turning body slide that ends in a steep drop. The very brave may want to take a turn on Torpedo Rush, which includes a 60-foot free-fall drop. Next, head over to the piratethemed Shipwreck Bay splash zone, with a wading pool and smaller slides specially made for kids, or the giant wave pool that’s almost as good as the real ocean (with the added bonus of treated water and no stray wildlife swimming around your feet). Admission to this water park also grants admission to the attached amusement park, so you can end the day with a roller-coaster or Ferris-wheel ride. Where to eat: Try out La Esperanza in Lindenwold, a charming, colorful Mexican restaurant a short drive from the park. This spot is super authentic, and the menu includes recipes that have been in the owner’s family for years. (The mole sauce is exceptional.) Try this establishment’s take on south-of-the-border favorites such as fajitas, tacos and burritos. You’ll also find a special lunch menu in addition to specialty drinks, Mexican and international beers and a large selection of tequilas. More info: clementonpark.com
CAMELBEACH WATERPARK, TANNERSVILLE, PA.
Tucked into the Pocono Mountains, Camelbeach is the largest water park in the area—it’s about an hour and 15 minutes away by car. Pile four people into a raft for the Dune Runner, which will take you all the way down a full mountain slope before splashing you into the pool below. There’s also the Vortex and the Spin Cycle, both of them bowl slides that will drop you from the top and let you whiz around the edges to the bottom like you’re circling a drain. Opt for a body slide, such as the enclosed Triple Venom, which has three unique tracks that twist, turn and drop for maximum thrills. Float down a lazy river, check out the wave pool or climb to the top of the Pharaoh’s Fortress, a play structure with eight waterslides and mounted water guns you can man to soak your family and friends. Rent a cabana for unlimited access to shade and the perfect place to lounge. Where to eat: If a day in the water makes you crave some seafood, Smuggler’s Cove has you covered. This restaurant offers all-you-can-eat shrimp in addition to steamed clams, brown butter scallops, crab cakes, sea bass, lobster—almost anything caught in the sea is served here and served well. A treat to end the day? The quaint Sweet Creams Café is tucked inside a historical building in Stroudsburg; there you’ll find a rotating menu of homemade ice cream with flavors such as honey lavender, white chocolate latte and caramel fudge pecan brownie—in addition to all the classics.
More info: camelbackresort.com
—Kirsten Meehan
TASTES
Wrapped Up
These easy-to-make apps are perfect for any cookout—they’re easy to make and packed with flavor and nutrients too!
ASIAN
STEAK LETTUCE WRAPS
Yields 4-6 servings
INGREDIENTS
n 1 lb. flank steak or skirt steak
n ¼ cup soy sauce
n 1 Tbs. sesame oil
n 1 Tbs. rice vinegar
n 1 Tbs. brown sugar or honey
n 2 garlic cloves, minced
n 1 tsp. fresh ginger, grated
n ¼ tsp. red pepper flakes (optional)
n butter lettuce or romaine hearts, separated into leaves
n ½ cup shredded carrots
n ¼ cup sliced scallions
n ¼ cup chopped cilantro or mint
n 2 Tbs. chopped peanuts or cashews
n red chili pepper, for garnish
DIRECTIONS
Whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, vinegar, sugar, garlic, ginger and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Place steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour marinade over it. Refrigerate for 2–4 hours.
Preheat a grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Cook steak for 3–4 minutes per side, or until desired doneness. Let rest 5 minutes.
Slice steak thinly against the grain.
To serve, lay lettuce leaves on a plate. Add sliced steak and desired toppings such as carrots, scallions, cilantro, sliced red chili pepper and nuts.
Drizzle with extra sauce or sriracha mayo if desired. Serve immediately.
“You won’t be able to resist biting into these lettuce wraps. The steak is marinated to perfection, then grilled for a tender, flavorful bite that anchors the dish. Rich in iron and highquality protein, steak can absolutely be part of a healthy, balanced diet—especially when enjoyed in moderation and paired with nutrientpacked ingredients like these.”
Cut the chicken into bite-size pieces. Season with salt and pepper.
Spray a non-stick pan with olive oil spray. Add the chicken and cook until no longer pink.
Add the minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds. Add the water, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger and brown sugar. Bring it to a simmer.
Mix together the cornstarch and water and add it to the pan while stirring. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Add the broccoli, red pepper and carrots. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the water chestnuts.
Lay out the lettuce leaves and divide the chicken mixture into six leaves. Top with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
“Filled with juicy, lean chicken breast and a rainbow of crunchy, colorful vegetables, these wraps offer the perfect balance of protein, fiber and antioxidants—all wrapped up in lettuce for a light yet satisfying crunch. The homemade teriyaki sauce comes together quickly in a pan and infuses the chicken and veggies with flavor. Serve with a side of brown rice and a drizzle of extra sauce for a nutritious, well-rounded and crowd-pleasing meal.”
A Showcase of Innovative Businesses Around Morris & Essex County
BEAUTY
BY
Plains, NJ 07950 | 973.292.9099 teri@blisshairstudiobyteri.com | www.blisshairstudiobyteri.com FOR OVER 13 YEARS, BLISS HAIR STUDIO HAS BEEN A GO-TO DESTINATION for personalized, top-tier service in a warm, welcoming environment. Known for its “community over competition” mindset, the salon blends skill, heart, and a little fun to make every client feel at ease. From precision cuts and color to weft extensions, curly cuts, and the Bliss Signature Head Spa, the team delivers exceptional service for all ages and hair types.
Bliss is a true team environment—no divas, just passionate professionals who support one another and continue to grow. Whether it’s balayage, blowouts, K18 treatments, or special occasion styling, each stylist brings their own expertise to the chair. The newly renovated space includes a dedicated Head Spa room and “Bliss Alley”—a favorite selfie spot and peaceful hangout. New clients are always welcome, and complimentary consultations ensure every service starts with a clear, collaborative vision.
As the salon evolves, Bliss remains committed to its supportive culture and is always open to welcoming talented new stylists who share that spirit. The studio is also proud to give back, supporting causes like Susan G. Komen and partnering with local schools and first responders. At Bliss, you’ll look your best—and feel it, too.
THE FACES OF
ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY
RIVERSIDE ORAL SURGERY
Scan the QR code to learn more, or visit RIVERSIDEORALSURGERY.COM
RIVERSIDE ORAL SURGERY, NEW JERSEY’S PREMIER ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY GROUP, was founded 18 years ago by Dr. Jason M. Auerbach. His singular focus was to create “the optimal patient experience…each and every time” and that philosophy still remains the group’s hallmark today. All of Riverside’s oral and maxillofacial surgeons are highly skilled and extensively trained in providing comprehensive and progressive oral and maxillofacial care to patients of all ages.
With a rapidly expanding footprint and a full scope of surgical offerings, the Official Oral Surgeons of the New Jersey Devils, Riverside Oral Surgery, is the ideal choice for patients throughout New Jersey. Whether it’s care for wisdom teeth, dental implants, head and neck pathology, facial cosmetics, TMJ, or any other issue oral and maxillofacial surgeons are uniquely qualified to treat, Riverside Oral Surgery has multiple board-certified, and fellowship trained surgeons and a qualified team dedicated to the patient experience. Riverside Oral Surgery, proudly selected as the ONLY dental practice in the state awarded NJBIZ Best Places to work, offers a solution custom built for you. Dr. Auerbach, who is also Instagram’s @bloodytoothguy, explains the success of the group, “I founded this practice to provide care ‘The Riverside Way’, where every patient we are privileged to treat is assured our utmost attention, uncompromised care, and a predictable exceptional outcome.”
SINCE DISPUTE RESOLUTION RARELY HAPPENS OVERNIGHT, Sandra Fava, founding partner in 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.
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.
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. MEETA GREWAL IS A HIGHLY ACCOMPLISHED PEDIATRIC DENTIST with over 18 years of experience and a special passion for working with children. Dr. Grewal graduated in the top 10% of her class at NYU College of Dentistry, laying a strong foundation for her distinguished career. In addition to her private practice, Dr. Grewal is a Director of the NYU Langone Pediatric Residency Program, mentoring the next generation of dentists.
Dr. Grewal holds licenses in New Jersey and New York and is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. Her special training in patient management philosophies allows her to meet each child’s unique needs with compassion and skill. As a local mom, she knows that early, positive dental experiences build lifelong confidence and healthy habits. Her gentle, calm approach helps children feel safe, heard and empowered.
Recognized for her clinical excellence and for her pursuits in the advancement of dentistry, she also has a deep commitment to service that has taken her from community organizations to global outreach in Tanzania. At Canoe Brook Pediatric Dentistry and across her many endeavors, Dr. Grewal is dedicated to helping children grow up smiling.
F A C E S
PLASTIC SURGERY
SCOTT A. SPIRO, MD, FACS SPIRO PLASTIC SURGERY
101 Old Short Hills Road, Suite 510, West Orange, NJ 07052
Dr. Scott Spiro is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 29 years of experience in aesthetic plastic surgery. Renowned for his surgical skill and artistic vision, Dr. Spiro sets himself apart by combining the precision of a surgeon with the creativity of a trained artist. His background in fine arts strongly influences his approach to aesthetic surgery and allows him to achieve results that are both technically precise and naturally beautiful.
Dr. Spiro is highly sought after for his innovative customized deep plane facelift, breast lift, breast augmentation, and tummy tuck procedures. Patients travel from near and far for his meticulous technique, compassionate care, and exceptional outcomes. In addition to surgery, their practice offers a comprehensive range of non-surgical services, including the latest in laser resurfacing, Botox, fillers, PRF, advanced skincare, and microneedling with PRP, providing patients with effective options for long-term skin health and rejuvenation.
The recently renovated office reflects the excellence of Dr. Spiro’s practice. Featuring a modern, artful design and upgraded treatment rooms, the space offers a warm and welcoming environment where patients feel cared for from consultation to recovery. Dr. Spiro’s dedication to both art and medicine ensures a uniquely elevated patient experience.
THE FACES OF
PERIODONTIC CARE
MARK KHAIMOV, D.D.S. LEONARD SWERDLOF, D.M.D.
MK PERIODONTICS & IMPLANT DENTISTRY P.C.
184 Centre St., Nutley, NJ 07110 | 973.798.2639
131 Columbia Turnpike, #2c, Florham Park, NJ 07932 | 973.377.3131 | www.Mkperionj.com
AT MK PERIODONTICS & IMPLANT DENTISTRY, Board Certified Periodontist Dr. Mark Khaimov is committed to transforming smiles and restoring confidence through advanced, compassionate periodontal care. With a focus on cutting-edge treatments for gum disease and tooth loss, Dr. Khaimov specializes in dental implants, laser therapy, Teeth-in-a-Day (All-on-4), the Pinhole Surgical Technique, and Piezosurgery. As a certified LANAP clinician, he also treats failing implants using LAPIP and performs a wide range of gum surgeries, all delivered in a comfortable, patient-centered environment.
In 2020, Dr. Leanard Swerdlof joined the practice, bringing strong expertise in both surgical and non-surgical periodontal care. Together, Drs. Khaimov and Swerdlof offer a fully comprehensive, technologically advanced approach to periodontal and implant dentistry. MK Periodontics is known for its boutique-style practice where patients of all ages receive personalized care tailored to their unique needs and budget. Dr. Khaimov is an active member of the American Academy of Periodontology, the Northeastern Society of Periodontists, and the American Academy of Facial Cosmetics.
Both Dr. Khaimov and Dr. Swerdlof have the distinct honor of being recognized as New Jersey’s Top Doctor for 2025.
WELLNESS
WITH MORE THAN 30 YEARS IN PRIVATE PRACTICE, Dr. David St. Ledger is known for delivering long-lasting cosmetic dentistry rooted in integrity, personalized care, and lifelong learning. As owner of Upper Montclair Dental Associates, he leads a team of empathetic, highly trained professionals dedicated to educating patients and improving oral health through co-discovery—a collaborative process that empowers patients to take control of their care.
Dr. St. Ledger’s passion for dentistry is reflected in his advanced technology and continual reinvestment in the practice. His newly expanded facility, built in 2022, features cutting-edge tools like 3D scanning, printing, and salivary DNA testing that support precision diagnostics and whole-body wellness. A Visiting Faculty member at Spear Education, he also brings the latest research and education back to his patients and team.
Welcoming patients as young as three, the practice offers in-office benefit plans and a second convenient location. Dr. St. Ledger is frequently described as selfless, committed, and deeply passionate about advocacy and care. Alongside his exceptional associate, Dr. Andrew Hanna, he continues to raise the standard of modern dentistry in a warm, relationship-focused environment.
THE FACES OF NEUROSURGERY
NEUROSURGEONS OF NEW JERSEY
200 South Orange Avenue, Suite 265, Livingston, NJ 07039 | 973.577.2888 311 Bay Avenue, Suite 201, Glen Ridge, NJ 07028 | 973.577.2883 www.neurosurgeonsofnewjersey.com
F A C E S 2025
NEUROSURGEONS OF NEW JERSEY IS RECOGNIZED AS THE NUMBER ONE NEUROSURGERY GROUP in the state and has been ranked number three nationally by Castle Connolly in 2025. Two of the practice’s 11 New Jersey offices- Livingston and Glen Ridge- are located in Morris/Essex County and are staffed by a world-class team committed to patient-first care and clinical excellence, offering leading-edge treatments in a compassionate and collaborative environment.
Livingston Office Surgeons:
Dr. Paul R. Gigante brings a conservative yet innovative approach to spine and brain surgery. He treats herniated discs, spinal degeneration and tumors. He’s also known for using frameless deep brain stimulation techniques for Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor, and for his expertise in brain tumor and trigeminal neuralgia treatment.
Dr. Luigi Bassani, a board-certified pediatric neurosurgeon, is also a Clinical Assistant Professor at NYU. He treats brain and spinal tumors, craniosynostosis, hydrocephalus, epilepsy, spasticity, and vascular malformations, offering some of the most advanced pediatric neurosurgical care in the region. He also treats adult patients suffering from spinal conditions using advanced minimally invasive techniques.
Dr. Seth Grossman, an award-winning orthopedic spine surgeon, proudly treats conditions of the neck and low back across Essex and Morris counties. He is an expert in treating active individuals through motion-preserving procedures whenever appropriate. He also utilizes robotic and minimally invasive techniques for disc replacement, decompression, and fusion surgeries. Before recommending any surgery, Dr. Grossman prioritizes conservative care, focusing on restoring function, improving recovery, and reducing pain.
Dr. James K. Liu is the director of the Skull Base Institute of NJ, who specializes in minimally invasive endoscopic pituitary tumor surgery in addition to complex brain tumors, meningiomas, and acoustic neuromas. He is a pioneer in treating rare conditions like Cushing’s disease, acromegaly, and paragangliomas, and is a leading expert in facial conditions like trigeminal neuralgia and hemifacial spasm.
Glen Ridge Office Surgeons:
Dr. Ahsan Sattar specializes in endovascular neurology, focusing on procedures like stroke thrombectomy, aneurysm coiling, AVM embolization, and both intracranial and extracranial stenting, delivering rapid, life-saving interventions for cerebrovascular conditions. Dr. Sattar is known for his expert treatment of Pulsatile Tinnitus.
Dr. Jonathan Yun is one of New Jersey’s top minimally invasive spine surgeons. He combines proven, advanced techniques with his expertise in brain-spine connections, making him an ideal choice for spine surgeries. His academic acumen, years of experience, technological knowhow and personal approach leave a lasting impact on his patients’ lives.
LUIGI BASSANI, MD, FAANS
JAMES K. LIU, MD, FACS, FAANS
PAUL R. GIGANTE, MD, FAANS
AHSAN SATTAR, MD
SETH GROSSMAN, MD, MS, FAAOS
JONATHAN YUN, MD FAANS
F A C E S 2025
DR. THEODORE CHANG, DDS, DABOI, DR. SHAINA SHAH, DMD, D.ABDSM, DR. EUGENIO BRICIO, DMD, DR. YOOJIN KIM, DDS BLOOMING DENTAL & IMPLANT CENTER 749 Bloomfield Ave., Suite D, West Caldwell, NJ 07006 l 973.363.0233 l www.bloomingdentalandimplants.com 321 Mt Hope Ave., Unit Q, Rockaway, NJ 07866 l 973.664.7764 l www.bloomingdentalrockaway.com
COMFORTABLE CARE AT BLOOMING DENTAL BEGINS WITH PAINLESS CLEANINGS using Swiss-made Air Polishers, Netflix on the ceiling, and weighted blankets. Dr. Chang and his team combine the latest technology and training to deliver comfortable, efficient, and ethical dental care. With over 760 5-star Google reviews, Blooming Dental has become a destination for general, implant, cosmetic, emergency, and sleep apnea dentistry.
CEREC same-day crowns reduce multiple visits to one, and their full in-house lab allows for meticulous attention to every case— including All-On-X full mouth implants. Multiple IV-sedation-certified doctors provide anxiety-free dentistry for any combination of procedures. Ongoing education is a cornerstone of care: Dr. Chang is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology, Dr. Shah is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine, and Dr. Chang and Dr. Bricio maintain IV sedation licenses.
To provide more comprehensive care for patients with sleep apnea, Essex Dental Sleep Center was established in 2024 as an in-house specialty practice led by Dr. Shah. In November 2025, Blooming Dental will expand to Morris County with its new Rockaway location, offering the same integrity-driven, comprehensive family dental care. Both offices accept all major PPO insurances and are welcoming new patients of all ages.
THE FACES OF
DIVORCE & FAMILY LAW ATTORNEYS
LAZOR RANTAS, PC 20 South St., Third Floor, Morristown, NJ 07960 | 973.246.8007 | www.lazorrantas.com
LAZOR RANTAS, PC – ADVOCATES FOR RESOLUTION AND RENEWAL IN FAMILY LAW. With nearly 40 years of combined legal experience, attorneys Jennifer Lazor and Erin Rantas of Lazor Rantas, PC bring big law expertise to their boutique family law practice in Morristown, New Jersey. Dedicated exclusively to family law matters, the firm provides thoughtful, results-driven counsel to individuals navigating emotionally charged issues such as divorce, custody, asset division, and support.
Clients turn to Lazor Rantas, PC during some of life’s most difficult transitions. The firm’s attorneys focus on helping clients move past the emotional weight of family disputes and toward practical, lasting resolutions. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, Jennifer Lazor and Erin Rantas tailor their approach to meet each client’s specific needs and goals.
The firm is known for handling both complex and straightforward cases with equal diligence. From high-net-worth divorces to sensitive custody matters, no two cases are alike—nor should they be treated as such. Lazor Rantas, PC emphasizes a personalized legal strategy, believing that a one-size-fits-all solution has no place in family law.
ON THE TOWN
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 solardominhobelleville. com
Topaz Thai
137 Washington Ave. 973.759.7425 topazthainj.com
BLOOMFIELD
Bella Napoli
1640 Broad St. 973.338.8500 bellanapolinj.com
Binh Duong
61 Belleville Ave. 973.680.8440
Bloomfield Steak & Seafood House
409 Franklin St. 973.680.4500 eatbeefgethooked.com
Stamna 1055 Broad St. 973.338.5151 stamnataverna.com
SuzyQue’s BBQ and Bar 34 S. Valley Rd. 973.736.7888
WHARTON 4 Seasons 322 S. Main St. 862.244.9777 4seasonswharton.com
Theodora’s Restaurant 336 S. Main St. 973.989.8363 theodorasrestaurant pizza.com
WHIPPANY
The Auld
Shebeen Pub 1401 Rte. 10 E. 973.583.8811
Il Capriccio 633 Rte. 10 E. 973.884.9175 ilcapriccio.com
Rails Steakhouse, Towaco
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Our butchers are more than meat cutters, they’re craftsmen. From custom cuts to expert advice, we keep the tradition of the old-school butcher shop alive. Whether you’re grilling for the family or planning a feast, our team is here to make sure you get the perfect cut.
Custom cuts always for free. Just ask.
Recognizing Difference. Enabling Success.
Students with language-based learning differences thrive at Winston! We serve bright learners with challenges such as dyslexia, ADHD, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, and executive functioning differences, turning obstacles into opportunities.
Orton-Gillingham instruction in small and structured groups ensures that students receive personalized, systematic, multisensory support tailored to their needs.
Senior Living Guide
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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Stylish Senior Living Is Here
EXPLORE OUR RESIDENCES
Lantern Hill® in New Providence offers a wide variety of maintenance-free floor plans to fit your style and budget.
• Enjoy contemporary fixtures and finishes.
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• Retire from the hassle of house repairs.
Be There
Whether you’re craving live events, once-in-a-lifetime concerts or hands-on activities, you’ll enjoy what’s happening in Morris and Essex.
AUG. 15
In Morristown, the Folk Project’s Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series presents CAMPFIRE NIGHT AT THE TROUBADOUR Acoustic artists Sam Robbins, Ernie Sites and Ken Galipeau will sing from the middle of a darkened audience, lit only by warm light of an electric campfire with make-believe stars across the sky. S’mores with marshmallows and hot cocoa will be served. The music starts at 7:30 p.m. For tickets and more information, see folkproject.org.
AUG. 15
What’s better than a wine-and-whine friends? Doing something creative the same time. The Montclair Art Museum hosts a WINE AND WHEEL NIGHT, where attendees can try their at the potter’s wheel in a relaxed, environment. Make cups, bowls and under the instruction of expert Stephen Jaskowak while you chat and sip. This event is 21+, BYOB and begins at 7 p.m. For registration and more, head over to montclairartmuseum.org.
AUG. 19
See rock and roll legends THE WHO stop at the Prudential Center in Newark their “The Song Is Over—North American Tour.” Listen to Roger Daltrey, Pete and the rest of the band perform their legendary songs live in person. Don’t on your last chance to see it! Doors 6:30 p.m., and the music begins at tickets, see prucenter.com.
AUG. 23
After a successful first year, the DENVILLE GARLIC FESTIVAL returns to downtown! Celebrate this flavorful plant with delicious garlic-infused dishes, local vendors, DJ music and fun activities. Along with the admission price, attendees are encouraged to bring a donation of toothpaste, toothbrushes or mouthwash for local nonprofits. Everything kicks off at noon, and more information can be found on the festival’s Instagram page and eventbrite.com.
AUG.
23
SEPT. 12
At Monte Irvin Orange Park in the City of Orange, you can stop by a LATINO FESTIVAL, presented by the Essex County Free Summer Music Concert Series. Starting at noon, this full-day event will include musical performances from both local and international acts, local vendors, food and a vibrant atmosphere. Come experience what organizers call “culture, community and summer joy wrapped into one.” For more information, see essexcountyparks.org.
SEPT. 12
Labor Day during IN THE PARK: happening at Memorial Park p.m. The fun stars singing range. Bring the show. For somapso.com.
Take your little ones over to the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark and DANNY GO! live. This educational children’s YouTuber is known for his fun songs and colorful cast of characters, who will join on stage. Get your silly on with favorites like “Great Big Party,” “Sharks in the Water” and “The Floor Is Lava.” This show begins at 5 p.m. For tickets and more information, head over to njpac.org.
Want to see a zoo you’ve never seen it before? You can experience it at the Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange with NIGHT MOVES event. This tour offers a look at the zoo’s nocturnal animal collection with a guided evening of exhibits, focusing different animal senses adaptations. This for families, those curious kids and date alike. Three tour times 7, 7:30 and 8 p.m. information,
20 see your favorite cooking competition show live at the Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown with MASTERCHEF ALL-STARS LIVE This show brings your favorite MasterChef competitors out of the kitchen and onto the stage. Witness epic head-tohead battles, thrilling challenges, and culinary creations right before your eyes. Plus, hear behind-the-scenes stories from your favorites and pick tips and tricks to take to your own kitchen. The show starts at 7 p.m. tickets and more information, check mayoarts.org.
21 by the PEQUANNOCK TOWNSHIP STREET FESTIVAL as it celebrates its 25-year anniversary. There’s something for everyone here—a car show, a scavenger hunt, a beer and wine garden, food trucks, crafts for kids and more than 100 vendors. Eat, drink, shop for your newest treasure and have a great time friends. The fun starts at 11 a.m. and all day, and more information can be pequannockchamber.org.
Gatherings
Morris and Essex residents always show up to support their friends and neighbors.
1. LAKELAND HILLS FAMILY YMCA
Lakeland Hills Family YMCA in Mountain Lakes held its annual senior picnic. The Y received help from staff at Sunrise Senior Living of Mountain Lakes and Fallsview Rehabilitation and Nursing to hold a successful event.
2-3. MONTCLAIR YMCA
The Montclair YMCA held its annual meeting at the Wally Choice Center with sponsors Mountainside Medical Center, Fette Auto and Milner Technologies. During the meeting, the Y recognized new and longtime board members.
4. FAMILY PROMISE OF ESSEX COUNTY
Family Promise of Essex County received a Welcome Kit of cleaning supplies to be donated to a family transitioning to permanent housing. The kit was made by the employees of Anthropologie in Montclair, who also contributed additional supplies and toiletries.
5. MORRIS COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The Chamber of Commerce welcomed back Jane Do cofounder Danielle DeAngelo to the RISE Morris Forum Roundtable. The recent RISE Morris networking event took place at Glenbrook Brewery in Morristown.
6.
MORRIS HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
Dozens of women rolled up their sleeves in May for Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build Volunteers & Sponsors event. During the initiative, the volunteers worked on home projects while building strength and stability for families in the community.
7. NJPAC
The New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark hosted the PSEG Social Impact Film Series this past season, which included community conversations. During the last session, the group discussed food security in New Jersey.
“This was taken in the South Mountain Reservation, by the Turtle Back Zoo. I was simply walking around the lake while my daughter rode her bike. Earlier, she thought the little train at the zoo was very exciting. Everyone should take their kids for a nice walk, I think.”
