Morris Essex Health & Life Winter Issue

DEC 2021/JAN 2022 | $3.95 | MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM | VOLUME 19 ISSUE 6

HEALTH & LIFE

HEALTH & LIFE

THE WINTER ISSUE VOLUME 19 ISSUE 6 | DEC 2021/JAN 2022

THE WINTER ISSUE

RING IN THE NEW! TIPS FOR EASY ENTERTAINING GORGEOUS LOOKS FOR THE SEASON LAST-MINUTE GIFTS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

MSX.1221.Cover FIN.indd 2

11/23/21 3:35 PM

Untitled-1 1 Untitled-2 1

11/22/21 11/16/21 12:17 1:37 PM PM

Smile with Confidence!

J AY S . S CHUSTER, DDS

Award-winning dentistry with the most advanced technology in a modern, progressive office.

We are committed to following CDC guidelines during Covid-19.

actual patient

whitening special!

smile special!

ZOOM! Chairside, regularly $695

Invisalign

now $495 Tray Whitening, regularly $495,

now $249

Ce l e

30

Untitled-4 1 Untitled-2

($275 value)

METRO DENTAL ASSOCIATES, LLC

b ra t i n g

Years

Complete Case $500 off

complimentary cosmetic consultation!

29 Elm Street Morristown, NJ

973-241-3790 Creating Healthy, Natural Looking Smiles

metrodentalassociates.com free parking

11/22/21 4/5/21 12:17 3:34 PM PM

CONTENTS

{ DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022 }

Features A Helping Hand | 22

An orthopedic surgeon at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center discusses common upper extremity injuries and how to keep safe.

A Center For Cutting-Edge Care | 24

The Medical Center’s new Infusion Center Annex meets the growing needs of infusion patients being treated for multiple sclerosis, cancer and more.

100 Million Reasons | 25

In recognition of the Cooperman family for their $100 million donation, Saint Barnabas Medical Center has been renamed Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center.

ROCKIN’ A DREAM

Fix A Heart | 26

How a Nutley native realized a childhood ambition at Radio City Music Hall.

Gregory Morgan, 62, is better than ever and back to his regular routine after a life-saving aortic aneurysm surgery at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center.

30

p.

Last-Minute Gifts | 28

Did you forget someone? Kids, foodies, pets, outdoorsmen and techies—we’ve got ’em all covered.

Season of Style | 32

Ditch the ugly sweater and celebrate the most wonderful time of the year in an elegant ensemble.

These seven looks are fit for all your holiday soirées.

Life Of The Party | 38

Whether your New Year’s Eve gettogether is an annual tradition or you’re hosting one for the first time, give your guests a memorable setting to ring in 2022. You can throw the best bash of the year by following a few simple tips.

IN EVERY ISSUE

4 Welcome Letter 5 Editor’s Note 15 Health News 52 Where to Eat 54 Be There

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.TOC.indd 2

2

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/23/21 2:42 PM

Departments Morris/Essex Buzz | 10 Our guide to new ideas, tips, trends and things we love in the counties.

For Men Only | 12

Step up your shoe game with stylish sneakers that can be worn all year round.

Style Watch | 13

This cold-weather layering piece takes sweater weather up a notch.

Home Front | 14

Up the glam factor this holiday season with furniture and décor in sparkly mixed metals.

Tastes | 42

To balance the overindulgence of the season, treat your gut to any of these salads, perfect as an appetizer or as a nutritious side.

Bar Tab | 51

The complex—and strong—flavors of La Louisiane, an old-fashioned New Orleans cocktail, will bring warmth to all your winter festivities.

Gatherings | 55

Morris and Essex residents always show up to support their friends and neighbors—especially when help is needed most.

51

A Morris/Essex Moment | 56

A Chester resident captures a brilliant sunset while leaving Grover Cleveland Park in Caldwell—the perfect ending to any day.

12

42

ON THE COVER: Winter falls over the Frelinghuysen Arboretum in Morristown. Photo courtesy of Morris County Park Commission

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.TOC.indd 3

3

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/30/21 3:02 PM

{ WELCOME LETTER }

MORE THAN GREAT BURGERS AND STEAKS! THE ORIGINAL AND ONLY ARTHUR’S TAVERN 700 SPEEDWELL AVE. MORRIS PLAINS, NJ 07950

|

E RR E

DD S S

2019

973.455.9705

AA D DE A RR ER WA RS E AW S’’ C CH CE A HO OIIC

Fresh seafood and salads daily!

For over 50 years— Locally Sourced Meats & Produce

New Year, Exciting Changes 2021 has been an exciting year. In the fall, we officially opened our new Emergency Department, with more square footage, state-of-theart resources and larger treatment areas to ensure the best care for our community. And the biggest news is we officially changed our name from Saint Barnabas Medical Center to Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center (CBMC) after receiving $100 million from Short Hills residents Leon and Toby Cooperman, the largest gift ever made to a New Jersey hospital. Their generosity ensures that we can maintain our reputation as one of the best medical centers in the tri-state area, and continue to give our community access to the best care. Learn more about this donation on page 25.

This issue of Morris/Essex Health and Life discusses other new upgrades to our Medical Center, including the newly expanded outpatient Infusion Center. Turn to page 24 to learn how this dedicated annex will meet the unique needs of patients receiving infusion treatments for multiple sclerosis, cancer and other conditions.

Meanwhile, you’ll meet Gregory Morgan on page 26, a cardiac patient at CBMC who was treated by our board-certified thoracic surgery team for a life-threatening aortic aneurism. Then, turn to page 22 to hear from Nicole Lopez, M.D., a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and hand specialist, who shares her tips for keeping our hands safe and avoiding common injuries of the upper extremities.

We hope this holiday issue of our bi-monthly magazine brings you joy, and that it inspires you to prioritize your health as we look ahead to 2022. Wishing you and your family a safe and happy holiday season.

Best,

BARRY H. OSTROWSKY President and Chief Executive Officer RWJBARNABAS HEALTH

RICHARD DAVIS President and Chief Executive Officer COOPERMAN BARNABAS MEDICAL CENTER

CHECK OUR DAILY SPECIALS:

www.arthurstavern.com

MSX.1221 welcome letter.indd 4

FOR A DDITIONAL INFORM ATION ABOUT COOPERM AN BA R NABAS MEDICAL CENTER, V ISIT OU R W EBSITE AT RWJBH.ORG/COOPERM ANBA R NABAS.

11/23/21 2:45 PM

{ EDITOR’S NOTE }

Make Merry This Season

Scouring gifts always gives us a thrill, even though it takes work. There’s no one formula for the perfect present. But it helps if a gift is useful, attractive and distinctive—something the recipient might have chosen but that also expresses you, the giver. For those who are still shopping, we’ve culled our favorite lastminute gifts (hint, hint) at a wide range of price points (see page 28).

It’s not uncommon to host a holiday soirée,

especially post pandemic. (Be sure to research our counties’ current guidelines for in-person events.) Entertaining can’t ever be completely effortless, but following the simple tips on page 38 from party planner Jodie Lupo-Munson of Particular Planner will make throwing your end-of-the-year bash a little easier—and more festive! Of course, this season is prime time to showcase your imagination.

Whether you’ll be hosting—or attending—a party, you’ll want to look your best. Check out the gorgeous outfits on page 32, perfect for celebrating December holidays or ringing in the new year with family and friends. The best part is we tell you where you can purchase every item featured—the coats, blouses, skirts, boots and more.

And don’t fret once the holidays are over, especially if you have a live Christmas tree in your home. Sure, taking it down is a hassle, but you’d feel better if the tree went to good use. Turn to Buzz on page 10 for ways to reuse those old firs and pines.

Beyond the holiday-themed coverage, this issue of Morris/Essex Health & Life also includes a range of ideas, inspiration and information—from the stylish sweater vests on page 13 to three tasty salads on page 42—as well as the latest news from the newly named Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center on page 22.

As always, I’d like to offer my thanks to our dedicated staff and to you, our wonderful readers and advertisers. Without all of you, this magazine wouldn’t be the success it is today.

All of us at Morris/Essex Health & Life wish you and those nearest and dearest a healthy, happy holiday season.

Rita Guarna Editor in Chief editor@wainscotmedia.com

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221 memo.indd 5

5

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/23/21 2:45 PM

HEALTH & LIFE

Editor in Chief RITA GUARNA Creative Director STEPHEN M. VITARBO Senior Associate Editor DARIUS AMOS Lifestyle Editor HALEY LONGMAN Contributing Editors BRIAN KELLEY DONNA ROLANDO ART

Contributing Photographer DANIEL SPRINGSTON PRODUCTION

Production Artist CHRIS FERRANTE CIRCULATION

Circulation Manager KATHLEEN WENZLER

BE SOCIAL Join our online community!

LIKE us on Facebook: MorrisHealthandLife FOLLOW us on Twitter: @MsxHandL SEE our photos on Instagram: @HealthNLife VIEW our boards on Pinterest: HealthandLife SEND YOUR FEEDBACK AND IDEAS TO: Editor, Morris/Essex Health & Life, 1 Maynard Dr., Park Ridge, NJ 07656; fax 201.746.8650; email editor@ wainscotmedia.com. Morris/Essex Health & Life assumes no responsibility for the return of unsolicited manuscripts or art materials.

Morris/Essex Health & Life is published 6 times a year by Wainscot Media, 1 Maynard Dr., Park Ridge, NJ 07656. This is Volume 19, Issue 6. © 2021 by Wainscot Media LLC. All rights reserved. Subscriptions in U.S. outside of Morris and Essex counties: $14 for one year. Single copies: $3.95.

Material contained herein is intended for informational purposes only. If you have medical concerns, seek the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Untitled-2 1 MSX.1221.masthead.indd 6

11/23/21 3:00 PM

11/23/21 3:16 PM

Guests and residents step into Crane’s Mill and discover a combination of modern beauty and home-like warmth.

Schedule a tour and see for yourself how Crane’s Mill continues to reinvest in their residents’ home.

Discover the area’s top community for adults age 60 and better. Crane’s Mill is constantly reinvesting in its campus and continuously reinventing itself for the future—while always maintaining the community’s spirit.

459 Passaic Avenue, West Caldwell, NJ 07006 | cranesmill.org | (973) 298-4195

Untitled-1 1

12/1/21 7:52 AM

Start your FREE* Subscription today!

HEALTH & LIFE

Publisher THOMAS FLANNERY ADVERTISING

Account Executive MARY LIMA Director, Special Programs LAURA A. DOWDEN MARKETING, DIGITAL & OPERATIONS

Director of Marketing and Digital Media NIGEL EDELSHAIN Director of Advertising Services JACQUELYNN FISCHER Chief Finance Officer STEVEN RESNICK Junior Accountant KASIE CARLETON Communications Manager CATHERINE ROSARIO Office Manager PENNY GLASS BOAG PUBLISHED BY WAINSCOT MEDIA

Chairman CARROLL V. DOWDEN President & CEO MARK DOWDEN Senior Vice Presidents RITA GUARNA CARL OLSEN Vice Presidents LIZETTE CHIN NIGEL EDELSHAIN THOMAS FLANNERY MARIA REGAN STEVEN RESNICK DIANE VOJCANIN

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SIGN UP: HEALTHANDLIFEMAGS.COM/ MORRIS-ESSEX/SUBSCRIBE

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES Please contact Thomas Flannery at 201.571.2252 or thomas.flannery@wainscotmedia.com.

SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES To inquire about a subscription, to change an address or to purchase a back issue or a reprint of an article, please write to Morris/Essex Health & Life, Circulation Department, 1 Maynard Dr., Park Ridge, NJ 07656; telephone 201.573.5541.

*Free to Morris and Essex County Residents

SubscribePromo_2-3V_1221.indd 1 MSX.1221.masthead.indd 8

11/23/21 12:55 PM 11/23/21 3:11 PM

WHEN IT’S NOT OVER EASY Divorce is rarely easy. You want a lawyer with experience in complex cases who can guide you and your family to the next chapter.

Eric S. Solotoff Co-Chair – Family Law 973.994.7501 esolotoff@foxrothschild.com Certified by the NJ Supreme Court Matrimonial Law Attorney

Handling family law matters throughout New Jersey MORRISTOWN | PRINCETON | ATLANTIC CITY

Untitled-1 1

11/19/21 8:53 AM

|

RS

’ C H O I C E AW

AR

A

DE

D

RE

S

E

DE

D

R

A

S

2019 RS

W ’ C H OICE A

AR

E

DE

D

R

S

2019 A

’ C H O I C E AW

AR

A

DE

D

RE

S

RS

RS

W ’ C H OICE A

AR

515 Essex St., HACKENSACK, NJ 07601 410 Eagle Rock Ave.,

201.820.4033

WEST ORANGE, NJ 07052 973.736.1989

CHITCHATDINER.COM

Untitled-1 1

11/23/21 12:28 PM

{ BUZZ }

OUR GUIDE TO NEW IDEAS, TIPS, TRENDS AND THINGS WE LOVE IN OUR COUNTIES.

YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE’S FUTURE

Decorating a tree for the holidays is a joyful occasion—taking it down, more of a mournful hassle. But what if your Christmas tree could be put to constructive use? Try one of these ideas (and remember to take all the decorations off first): • Turn it into firewood. Your tree is perfect fuel for your outdoor firepit. Use smaller branches as kindling and chop the trunk into longer-burning logs. Avoid lighting it indoors, however, as the amount of moisture in the tree will create smoke and sooty fireplaces. ª Make it a sanctuary. Whether they’re rooted in the ground or secured on a stand, trees are great shelters for birds. So take your old Christmas tree into the yard and stand it in a safe spot for winter. Decorate it with a bird feeder, then watch as new aviary acquaintances drop by.

• Compost it. Towns that collect Christmas trees at the end of the season turn them into mulch. You can use your tree similarly and simply toss it into the compost heap in your yard—the browns and greens will ultimately break down into soil and feed your garden.

• Donate it. That’s right, several organizations—such as zoos and animal sanctuaries— accept old Christmas trees. The Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange, for instance, uses them as décor in their exhibits. Some animals, such as goats, chow down on the greens too, so it’s imperative that all tinsel and ornaments are removed.

KUDOS

Shoes were just the first step: Cathy Chung-Lok never turns down a good volunteer opportunity. Throughout October, the Livingston mom used social media and other local resources to collect gently worn shoes to donate to Funds2Orgs, a nonprofit that delivers shoes to impoverished countries. And in three weeks, she collected more than 35 garbage bags full of footwear to send overseas for foreign feet—no easy feat.

Chung-Lok also knits, and she hand-made 100 baby beanies to donate to a local children’s hospital. The deadline for shoe submissions has passed, but reach out to Chung-Lok via email at cathychung01@yahoo.com to be a part of her next big volunteer project.

Rails revisited: Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and one savvy beholder is photojournalist Wheeler Antabanez. The Caldwell native and Montclair resident recently released a book and its accompanying short film, both titled Walking the Newark Branch: A Photographic Journey on the Abandoned Rails of New Jersey. They chronicle his walks along the Newark Branch of the Erie Railroad, which runs through Kearny, Harrison, East Newark, Newark, Belleville, Nutley and Clifton. Through vibrant imagery and descriptive commentary, Antabanez takes readers and viewers to hidden gems within the familiar landscape of the old Jersey railway. It’s $34.31 on Amazon; learn more at abandonedbooks.org.

From page to stage: There’s room for more than one successful author in these parts.

School psychologist Danielle Gasalberti, a resident of Stirling in Morris County, released her first children’s book, Love Your Selfie, in August. And now, two theater arts freshmen students at Drew University, Gasalberti’s alma mater, are turning this feel-good story into a play.

“The play is still being diligently worked on and should be ready for an audience by December!” Gasalberti says. DM the author @love_ur_selfie for more details!

MONEY FOR THE JAR

Call them cooks for a cause. In October, chef Ryan DePersio of Fascino in Montclair teamed up with chef John Karangis of burgers-and-fries chain Shake Shack on a five-course meal to raise money and awareness for Jar of Hope, a nonprofit that battles a neurodegenerative disease called Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

The nonprofit was founded by a friend of Karangis’ whose son was diagnosed with the disorder.

The duo of chefs prepared at Fascino a five-course meal that included, in this order: tuna crostini, market vegetable terrine, sweet potato agnolotti, balsamic glazed short rib and apple crostatas. The chef pals later walked/ ran off the calories at the New York City Marathon on Nov. 7, raising even more money for Jar of Hope.

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.buzz.indd 10

10

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/23/21 3:24 PM

PUPPY LOVE Dog: Riggins, 3-year-old Goldendoodle Owners: Taylor Cosentino and Chris Volonnino of Randolph Riggins of Randolph is a people kind of pooch.

His owners say he loves humans and sometimes seems to think he’s a human himself.

He loves doing human activities such as visiting parks and hiking trails throughout Morris County and playing fetch with his favorite ball.

But unlike people, Riggins has an especially keen sense of smell. “He always does a sniff test before eating something,” his owner says.

“We even gave this a whole series on Instagram highlights!” To see more cute pics of Riggins, check him out on Instagram @rigginsdoodd.

Want your pet featured in a future issue?

Email his or her pic and a brief description to our editor at rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com.

COOK FOR YOUR CYCLE

A Chatham writer is breaking new ground with what she calls The Moon Cycle Cookbook. Devon Loftus’ new release, named after her onlineonly bakery, is aimed at women, and its recipes are organized according to the four phases of the menstrual cycle. Each dish reflects the nourishment and nutrients a woman’s body needs in that cycle (and yes, there are plenty of chocolate treats to be had). Bonus: The book also features pages of holistic practices, exercises and rituals to make you feel your best while you eat your best. It’s available for $18.95 on Loftus’ website, mooncyclebakery.com, and wherever you buy your books.

LOVE THAT LIBRARY!

You know the library’s about more than taking out books. Now, thanks to a new pilot program from the New Jersey Library Association, it’s where Montclair residents can work with specially trained visiting “navigators” who can help them look for a job, improve computer skills or make a new business idea a reality.

Montclair’s is one of a dozen municipal libraries across the state (and the only one in Morris and Essex counties) chosen to participate in this Access Navigator Program. And no wonder—with 32,000 members it’s one of Jersey’s busiest.

Of course, the Montclair Public Library, with its main location on South Fullerton and a Bellevue Avenue branch, already provides great free programming, such as notary services, the printing and copying of documents related to taxes or job searches and the delivery of reading materials to homebound seniors.

To learn more, visit montclairlibrary.org or call 973.744.0500.

CULINARY CORNER DON’T BE CHICKEN… “Winner winner chicken dinner” (or lunch) is what you’ll get at Wing it On in Verona, the second soon-to-open New Jersey location of this New England-based chicken chain (the first is in Linden). Wings n’ ’wiches (that’s sandwiches) are the stock in trade here, with classics such as buttermilk chicken with lettuce and tomato and the self-explanatory Nashville Hot Chicken. You can also select your style of fries and a seasoning—and choose from among six rubs and 18 dipping sauces, such as Asian garlic or honey mustard.

• Wing It On, wingiton.com

A GRAND REOPENING Opening a restaurant in February 2020? Um, not ideal. So Savour Café in Morristown had its official do-over this past October, with a ribbon-cutting and reintroduction to the community. Savour is inspired by European-style cafés, and everything is made from scratch and from natural and locally sourced ingredients, including all desserts, sandwiches, breakfast platters and soups.

• Savour Café, 40 Morris St., Morristown, 973.343.5560; my-savour.com

THAT FARM-FRESH TASTE Another new local spot that’s getting its produce, cheese and meat from local farms is Agricola, a farm-to-table, sit-down restaurant right along the Morristown Green. The Morris County location will be similar to the original one in Princeton, with fresh, Jersey Shore seafood and other local ingredients. The menu also includes seasonal pastas, soups, salads and meats for every type of carnivore. Stay tuned for its grand opening!

• Agricola, 40 W. Park Pl., Morristown, 609.921.2798; agricolaeatery.com

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.buzz.indd 11

11

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/23/21 2:46 PM

{ FOR MEN ONLY }

Kicking It!

Step up your shoe game with stylish sneakers that can be worn all year round.

Sneakers by Magnanni, Neiman Marcus, Short Hills, 973.912.0080

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.men only.indd 12

12

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/19/21 2:49 PM

BROCHU WALKER NYE FEST LAYERED LOOKER brochuwalker.com

{ STYLE WATCH } BP OVERSIZE HOUNDSTOOTH RECYCLED BLEND SWEATER VEST Nordstrom, Short Hills, 973.467.1500

GANNI SMILEY CHECKERBOARD SWEATER Nordstrom, Short Hills, 973.467.1500 ABERCROMBIE & FITCH GRAY HOUNDSTOOTH SWEATER VEST Abercrombie & Fitch, Short Hills, 973.467.9575

All The Vest

This cold-weather layering piece takes sweater weather up a notch.

HABAND CABLE SWEATER VEST haband.com

HONGQIZO V-NECK VARSITY CROPPED SWEATER VEST amazon.com

YOOJOO CABLE KNIT SWEATER VEST malekline.shop VERONICA BEARD HELENKA SWEATER VEST Neiman Marcus, Short Hills, 973.912.0080

MSX.1221.stylewatch 2.indd 13

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

13

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/23/21 3:35 PM

{ HOME FRONT } GOLD SHELL CHAIR IN SOLID HAND-CARVED WOOD 1stdibs.com

BAXTON STUDIO ROMAINE FAUX FUR OTTOMAN Lowe’s, Morris Plains, 973.775.5910

POSSINI EURO DESIGN SPUTNIK PENDANT Target, Rockaway, 973.989.5740

Silver & Gold

NICHELLE OCTAGONAL COFFEE TABLE Raymour & Flanigan, East Hanover, 973.637.8770

Up the glam factor this holiday season with furniture and décor in sparkly mixed metals.

PIEDMONT MARTINI TABLE serenaandlily.com

A.R.T. FURNITURE STARLITE 9-DRAWER WOOD DRESSER Creative Furniture, Fairfield, 800.345.7060

ARTERIORS HOME EISLER LAMP West Essex Lighting Studio, West Caldwell, 973.228.0400

BERGENMAG.COM

MSX.1221.homefront.indd 14

14

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/23/21 11:20 AM

FUEL FOR YOUR BRAIN People who eat diets chock full of veggies, fruits, nuts, whole grains and fish score higher in cognitive tests than those folks who eat less healthful diets.

{ HEALTH NEWS }

—Journal of the American Geriatrics Society

54

STEP UP YOUR TIME

The percent of women who experienced changes in their menstrual cycle following the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020. People who felt high levels of stress during the pandemic were more likely to have heavier menstrual bleeding and for a longer duration.

—Journal of Women’s Health

ZINC FOR HAIR LOSS? MOVE FOR METABOLIC HEALTH

Taking a three-minute break from sitting every half hour has been found to improve blood sugar control. Experts advise walking or climbing stairs during those breaks.

—American Journal of Physiology

FLEX FOR FUNCTION

Patients experiencing hair loss generally have lower levels of zinc. If you’re losing more hair than usual, you could have a mineral deficiency.

SOCK IT TO YOUR ROUTINE

Wearing compression socks during workout sessions or running lessens muscle fatigue and soreness, according to recent findings.

—Open Access Journal of Sports Medicine

—Annals of Dermatology

NO JUDGMENT ZONE

Between the ages of 55 and 86, shoulder and hip range of motion decreased by approximately 6 degrees per decade. To counter that reduction, stretch, do strength training and eat foods that lower inflammation, such as fish and veggies.

—Journal of Aging Research

Observing your own thoughts and feelings without judgment makes you more likely to forgive others who’ve hurt you, and according to experts, forgiveness helps you more than the other person.

—Emotion

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.healthbits.indd 15

Can you climb four flights of stairs—or 60 steps—in under a minute? If you can, you’re in good heart health. If it takes you longer than a minute and a half, have a chat with your doctor.

—European Society of Cardiology

15

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

—Compiled by Paul Rance Jr.

11/19/21 2:37 PM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

WOMEN TO WATCH Morris and Essex Counties are home to some of the most innovative and successful businesses in the country.

Many are owned and led by women.

On the following pages, learn more about them and how they plan to be difference-makers in the year ahead.

WomenToWatch_Morris_SS_1221_V9.indd 16 1 WomentoWatch_Cover_MEHL_1221_Final.indd

11/30/21 11:39 1:03 PM 11/18/21 AM

W OM E N TO WATC H

Sandra C. Fava Fox Rothschild LLP 49 Market St., Morristown, NJ 07960 | 973.994.7564 | www.foxrothschild.com Since dispute resolution rarely happens overnight, Sandra Fava, a partner in Fox Rothschild’s Morristown office, 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 guides you through what may be a one of the most personally challenging times in your life. Working closely together, Sandra crafts a strategic plan that will ensure the most positive outcome for you and your family. A certified mediator and a compassionate and creative attorney, Sandra takes a solution-oriented approach, working closely with clients to identify their goals and develop a strategy that effectively and efficiently meets your needs.

11:39 AM

WomenToWatch_Morris_SS_1221_V9.indd 17

11/30/21 1:03 PM

W OM E N TO WATC H

Maryse Manasse, DMD, MEd, FICD Executive Dental Studio 24 North Avenue W., Cranford, NJ 07016 908-276-2385 | info@execdentalstudio.com | www.execdentalstudio.com As a specialist in prosthodontics, Dr. Maryse Manasse of Executive Dental Studio, manages patients of all ages needing to restore their smiles and oral functioning from tooth loss. She now leads this long-standing family practice that has gained the respect and trust of the community, treating generations of patients.

Prosthetic procedures may include crowns, oral reconstructions, removable dentures, or implants. In addition to prosthodontics, Dr. Manasse also offers cosmetic dentistry procedures in her family practice. Moreover, Dr. Manasse is a fellow and diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and a prominent New York University faculty member. Her patients appreciate her integrity and gentle hands. Furthermore, her individualized patient care causes her to take the time to listen to their respective needs and concerns. Call for an appointment in a comfortable and welcoming office where you can rest assured that you’re in trustworthy hands.

WomenToWatch_Morris_SS_1221_Final.indd 18

12/1/21 3:20 PM

W OM E N TO WATC H

Melissa Cipriano Cipriano Law Offices, P.C. 175 Fairfield Ave., Suite 4C/D, West Caldwell, NJ 07006 | 973.403.8600 | www.ciprianolaw.com Melissa Cipriano was working at an insurance defense firm when she received a request to help a friend whose child had been taken to another state by his ex-wife, without permission. He counted on Melissa for strong legal action to get his daughter back, which she did, along with legal custody.

These cases led to others, inspiring Melissa to specialize in family law and she never looked back. She opened her practice in 2003, handling all aspects of family representation, including domestic violence and child protection. Melissa is a qualified family law mediator and parenting coordinator. She is a volunteer on the Essex County Early Settlement Panel which assists litigants in coming to resolution of their outstanding issues there by avoiding costly protracted litigation. Ms. Cipriano is admitted to practice law in New Jersey, New York and Florida, the United States Supreme Court, the United States Court of Appeals 3rd Circuit, and the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey.

WomenToWatch_Morris_SS_1221_V9.indd 19

11/30/21 1:03 PM

W OM E N TO WATC H

Tanya L. Freeman, Chair, Family Law Department Wiener Law Group LLP 100 Eagle Rock Ave., Suite 105, East Hanover, New Jersey 07936 | 973-939-0100 | www.tanyafreeman.law Divorce. Custody. Support.

Deciding who gets what and how it may impact your children…It’s stressful, heartbreaking, and a single misstep can be costly. That’s why for so many people, their next move—or their first—is to call Tanya L. Freeman. Tanya has brought together a team of skilled attorneys and support staff that can help you navigate a family law dispute with confidence. Tanya has represented clients in cases involving corporate executives, professional athletes, television personalities, and other high-profile celebrities.

Prior to the practice of law, Tanya spent fifteen years in key roles leading audit teams in the banking and insurance industries. Tanya’s corporate audit background enhances her ability to effectively represent clients with high net worth cases involving significant assets as well as cases concerning owners of closely held businesses. This know-how helps her develop strong negotiation and trial strategies designed to help her clients move confidently through every aspect of their case.

If you are wondering where to turn to next…call Tanya and her team.

WomenToWatch_Morris_SS_1221_V9.indd 20

11/30/21 1:03 PM

23 Cattano Ave., Morristown, NJ 07960 973.285.1444 | cdalena@lauferfamilylaw.com www.lauferfamilylaw.com

W OM E N TO WATC H

Christine M. Dalena, Esq. Laufer, Dalena, Jensen, Bradley and Doran, LLC

Christine M. Dalena, Esq, has been a family law attorney for over 32 years. For the past 19 years, Ms. Dalena has been an equity partner and the managing partner for the last 4 years. Ms. Dalena has extensive experience in handling complex, high net worth and high conflict mediation, collaborative law and family law matters.

Although Ms. Dalena’s specialty is in handling family law related matters (divorce, dissolution of civil unions, adoptions, domestic violence, custody & parenting time, marital torts, paternity, co-habitation agreements & pre-nuptial agreements), she has extensive experience in other areas of the law—real estate transactions and prior general litigation—which allows her to handle a broader spectrum of issues that customarily arise in the matrimonial law context. Each case is unique so she employs the most appropriate strategy—mediation, collaborative, arbitration or litigation—based on the particular circumstances that exist in each individual matter. Her mediation and collaborative training skills, coupled with her knowledge of the law, ability to handle complex financial issues, and compassion for her client’s needs and goals have enabled her to handle the intricacies of family law successfully

Jackie Scura Compass Real Estate 973.214.9488 | jackiescura@gmail.com www.jackiescura.com “Being a Realtor is so much more than being a salesperson and I know I’ve done my job well not just when a house sells, but when my clients are able to relax and enjoy the excitement of selling their home or buying their dream home.”

For more than 35 years Jackie has been a top realtor in Morris County, helping thousands of people realize their dreams of homeownership.

What sets Jackie apart is her ability to really listen and offer sound consultation when clients are in transition. On average, her listings sell for 110% of list price with offers in under one week. Jackie has won numerous awards, including the Diamond Club, the single highest achievement one can earn in the residential real estate field.

Even more than awards and accolades, Jackie is proud of her professional reputation and her business that has been built on personal referrals.

WomenToWatch_Morris_SS_1221_V9.indd 21

11/30/21 1:09 PM

A HELPING HAND An orthopedic surgeon at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center discusses common upper extremity injuries and how to keep safe.

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.IGH .indd 22

22

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/23/21 2:48 PM

D

{ IN GOOD HEALTH } Just as eating well and exercising regularly is key to keeping our bodies healthy, so too is protecting our upper and lower extremities from injury—and hey, you’re going to need those 10 fingers of yours!

Morris/Essex Health & Life chats with Nicole Lopez, M.D., orthopedic surgeon, hand and upper extremity specialist and a member of the RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group. Dr. Lopez discusses the treatment options and recovery period for common hand injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome, “avocado hand” (yep, it’s a thing!) and tips on protecting your hands daily.

You’ve said you love how helping people and science combine in this field. What do you mean by that?

Part of the appeal with orthopedic surgery is there is a lot of background and mechanics in how bones and muscles work and the relationship with ligaments. In the context of an injury, having to explain those mechanics to patients and giving them options to optimize their injury or fix what is broken is the perfect marriage of the two. It gives me the opportunity to teach them what’s wrong, and instead of deciding [on a treatment plan], I present all the options to them. It’s more collaborative, and patients respond a lot better to that approach.

bones takes a bit longer, usually 6–8 weeks until those injuries are fully healed. Once they are healed, you need therapy to make the hand fully functional. So overall, we tell patients to expect recovery somewhere in the 8- to 12-week timeframe depending on what the injury is.

Do you perform these surgeries endoscopically or open?

The data for outcomes is fairly similar for both. In my hands, the incision for open carpal tunnel release is not that much more significant than for endoscopic surgery, and for that reason I prefer to do my carpal tunnel releases as an open procedure.

How do you collaborate with the What other common hand injuries do you treat? multidisciplinary team at Cooperman Falls onto an outstretched hand are common and result in wrist Barnabas Medical Center? or elbow fractures. Kitchen injuries are extremely common too.

The biggest source of information that I have People who cut open avocados while holding them as opposed is my peers, such as other hand surgeons to using a cutting board very frequently will slip and get and our sports medicine physicians. We lacerations of both the skin as well as the tendons. We literally work closely with rheumatologists and the call it avocado hand! People also get injured on a mandolin, primary medical care teams to help manage the the really sharp tool that makes thin-sliced vegetables. You medical reasons behind joint pain and should only use this with a stable surface and something dysfunction. protecting your fingers.

Our occupational therapy and physical therapy teams are Aside from the obvious bleeding, what are invaluable as well. Rehabbing common symptoms in hand injuries? and making an extremity A dull aching pain or a dull discomfort, especially function in the long term is when going to grab something. You might have essential. It’s very case-by-case, no pain at rest but there could be a specific area of but there is rarely a surgery that discomfort when performing an activity. If the pain doesn’t require therapy afterward. is not improving steadily over the few days after an We have outpatient facilities that offer injury, come see us. We want to make sure it’s just OT and PT, such as the Barnabas Health a sprain and not something that needs to be fixed Nicole Lopez, M.D. Ambulatory Care Center. surgically. Any pain that lingers beyond several days usually warrants further evaluation.

What are some of the most common hand injuries you see in your practice?

How can we protect our hands?

The most common complaints we see are of carpal Be mindful of equipment you’re using, and pay close attention tunnel syndrome and trigger fingers, which are more to what you’re doing so you minimize distractions. You can overuse injuries than caused by trauma. Carpal tunnel easily slip when cutting vegetables, for example. Burns are is mostly numbness and tingling in the fingers and also more easily avoided if you’re mindful of what you’re doing. triggering is an advanced tendonitis of the flexor tendons If you’re skating or participating in a similar sport, using a which makes it difficult and painful to move the finger. wrist guard to minimize the force that goes to your wrist if you We try to treat these patients conservatively with braces, fall can be helpful. In any job that involves using your hands, steroid injections and/or therapy. If this fails, the next step always use gloves and the proper equipment. is surgery to take the pressure off the tendon or nerves.

For those of us that work office jobs and are at our What does surgery and recovery look like for a patient computers all day, how can we avoid carpal tunnel with carpal tunnel or trigger finger? syndrome?

Surgery is a quick outpatient procedure that is mostly done Make sure you’re sitting in an ergonomically correct position. under local anesthesia with some mild sedation. After the That may be different for each person—it’s specific to how procedure, we wait for the skin to heal, which takes about 10your hand feels best positioned when you’re doing work.

14 days. After that the focus switches to regaining motion in That may take some trial and error in figuring out what the fingers. Treatment for torn soft tissue structures or broken works best for you.

For more information or to book an appointment with the orthopedics team at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, go to rwjbh.org/ortho or call 973.322.7005.

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.IGH .indd 23

23

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/23/21 2:48 PM

{ IN GOOD HEALTH }

A CENTER FOR CUTTING-EDGE CARE

The Medical Center’s new Infusion Center Annex meets the growing needs of infusion patients being treated for multiple sclerosis, cancer and more.

Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center (CBMC) unveiled the newly expanded Outpatient Infusion Center during a ribbon-cutting ceremony in late October. Consisting of 13 brand-new, private treatment rooms and a comfortable waiting area, the dedicated Infusion Center Annex was built to meet the unique needs of the Medical Center’s outpatient infusion patients who are being treated for a variety of conditions.

“The expansion of our Infusion Center is in response to the growing number of infusion patients we are seeing throughout various specialties including multiple sclerosis (MS), hematology and oncology,” says Richard L. Davis, president and chief executive officer at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center. “The Center will have immediate impact, ensuring all our infusion patients will have access to timely, superior service they expect from the Medical

“The Infusion Center will have immediate impact, ensuring all our infusion patients will have access to timely, superior service they expect from the Medical Center in a beautiful and relaxing setting.”

— Richard L. Davis, president and chief executive officer, Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center

Dr. Sylvester adds that there is a designated area in the Center geared toward MS research, making it easier for the team to implement research protocols.

Center in a beautiful and relaxing setting.”

The Center’s private rooms are equipped with a reclining The multiple sclerosis team at CBMC, for one, is chair or bed, a flat-screen TV, Wi-Fi access and dimmable excited about the opening of the Infusion Center, as the lighting to ensure safety and comfort for all patients. A team new facility will greatly help MS patients who come to of specially-trained nurses provides compassionate and the Center for infusion treatments, which are typically personalized care in the safety of a hospital setting. between one and six hours per session.

The new Outpatient Infusion Center, located on the first “The beautiful new and modern Infusion Center floor of the East Wing, complements the Medical Center’s enhances the patient experience because much of the existing 24-private room outpatient Infusion Center located on care is specifically geared toward people with MS,” says Andrew Sylvester, M.D. the second floor of the East Wing alongside The Cancer Center.

Andrew Sylvester, M.D., neurologist, medical director of The “Our specialized and dedicated multiple sclerosis team is Multiple Sclerosis Comprehensive Care Center and member always working to improve the quality of care and experience for our of RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group. “The additional space also opens patients,” says Dr. Sylvester. “This exceptional new Infusion Center will up availability, so our patients can do their infusions at times that are most bring it to the next level.” convenient for them.”

For more information or to schedule an outpatient infusion service, please call 973.322.9900.

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.IGH .indd 24

24

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/23/21 3:40 PM

100 MILLION REASONS In recognition of the Cooperman family for their $100 million donation, Saint Barnabas Medical Center has been renamed to Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center.

Leon and Toby Cooperman, who lived and raised their family in Short Hills, have an extensive history of philanthropy, and have donated more than 100 times to Saint Barnabas Medical Center.

Their most recent donation of $100 million is the largest ever given to any hospital in New Jersey, and as a result of their generosity, the Medical Center in Livingston has been renamed to Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center.

“I am at the point in my life where I want my gifts to have real impact, and I could think of no better way to do that than to make this investment in healthcare in the community that has given so much to our family,” Leon says. “The pandemic has shown us that heroes are working in our hospitals every day, and I’m honored to help support their work.”

This donation allows the Medical Center to continue its ongoing transformation into a world-class healthcare institution that provides the highest quality and most advanced care available anywhere in the tri-state area.

“This gift will not only help us attract and retain world class clinicians,” says Richard L. Davis, president and chief executive officer at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, “but it’ll also propel us to build the buildings and house the technologies to take the Medical Center well into the future.”

This $100 million gift is the Coopermans’ largest ever to any institution and caps off a big decade of giving. In 2010, Leon and Toby took the Giving Pledge, a philanthropic initiative started

by Warren Buffett and Bill and Melinda Gates that encourages the world’s top earners to donate a majority of their money to philanthropic causes.

The Coopermans’ previous gifts to the Medical Center include $25 million in 2014 that funded the construction of a five-story addition

“I consider it an honor to have my family name associated with Saint Barnabas. Hopefully, this level of giving will inspire other people to step forward if they are able to do so.”

—Leon Cooperman with a state-of-the-art neonatal intensive care unit, nursing units, 114 private rooms and operating room suites. This medical building, named the Cooperman Family Pavilion, debuted in 2017.

“I consider it an honor to have my family name associated with Saint Barnabas,” Leon says. “They provide vital services to the community, and they’re on a mission…. Hopefully, this level of giving will inspire other people to step forward if they are able to do so. I know that we’re doing the right thing.”

To learn more about giving at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, call 973.322.4330.

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.IGH .indd 25

25

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/23/21 2:48 PM

{ IN GOOD HEALTH }

FIX A HEART

62-year-old Gregory Morgan is better than ever and back to his regular routine after a life-saving aortic aneurysm surgery at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center. valve and then re-implanted his valve Gregory Morgan had two brothers inside the graft. By keeping his own die of heart complications. Five valve, the patient has a decreased years ago, when he was still living risk of infection and a decreased risk in his hometown of Chicago, he was of needing another surgery in the diagnosed with an aortic aneurysm, future.” a bulge in the aorta which carries Gregory stayed four nights at blood from the heart to the rest of the hospital after the surgery, and the body, as well as a leaky valve. A also completed outpatient physical specialist had been monitoring his therapy. He did so well in his recovery, condition over the years, but when in fact, he was able to walk himself Gregory relocated to New Jersey and into Dr. Loumiotis’ office for a followstarted seeing a physician associated up appointment just two days after with Cooperman Barnabas Medical getting discharged from the hospital.

Center (CBMC), his condition had “We have an exceptional team worsened—so he wasn’t messing comprised of not only cardiac around. Because of his family history, surgeons, but also nursing staff, his shortness of breath upon exertion anesthesiologists and an amazing and his worsening condition, “I post-operative care team,” says Dr. decided to move forward with Loumiotis. “The cardiac team surgery,” says Gregory. “My offers unique approaches to brothers had diabetes and treat all kinds of complex other complications, but heart problems. We use I survived because I optimal protocols for caught it at an early recovery so patients stage.” can be mobilized and The 62-year-old discharged as soon as also survived because possible.” he had a top-notch Now a few months out cardiology team at of surgery, the Rahway CBMC to help him resident is back to his through. After Gregory’s Ioannis Loumiotis, M.D. regular routine and to his initial appointment with life.

Bruce Haik, M.D., chief of “I’m feeling great—I don’t have cardiology and director of the Cardiac shortness of breath anymore, and Catheterization Lab at CBMC, he was now I’m able to do things without referred to Ioannis Loumiotis, M.D., getting so tired,” Gregory says. Adds cardiothoracic surgeon, both members Dr. Loumiotis, “We monitor the heart of the RWJBarnabas Health Medical function with regular follow-ups. He’s Group. Dr. Loumiotis performed his doing great and is back to normal.” open-heart surgery in August of 2021, And the patient is thrilled he and it went as planned—it fixed the chose to receive his cardiac care at bulge in the aorta and the leaky valve, CBMC. “The whole team was really and prevented a potentially lifeprofessional,” he says. “And they’re threatening rupture. combining my specialists and my “Mr. Morgan had a unique surgery primary [doctor] at the hospital, that is technically challenging and so everything is in one place and only offered in exceptional institutions that makes it a lot easier. I highly such as Cooperman Barnabas Medical recommend this hospital, but it’s Center called valve-sparing aortic root hard to sell something that already replacement,” says Dr. Loumiotis. “We sells itself.” removed the aneurysm around the

“The cardiac team at CBMC offers unique approaches to treat all kinds of complex heart problems. We use optimal protocols for recovery so patients can be mobilized and discharged as soon as possible.”

— Ioannis Loumiotis, M.D., cardiothoracic surgeon, member of RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group

To learn more about the Cardiology Department at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, go to rwjbh.org/heart or call 973.322.2200.

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.IGH .indd 26

26

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/23/21 3:40 PM

I’ve got cancer but I also have CyberKnife-trained experts on my side. ®

When it comes to cancer treatments, the fewer treatments you need, the better. That’s why Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center (formerly Saint NCI Barnabas Medical Center), is proud to offer Designated CyberKnife. This precise, non-invasive Comprehensive Cancer Center technology fights cancer in five treatments or fewer, with less pain, and virtually no side effects or recovery time. CyberKnife is just one of many innovations you can expect from our partnership with the state’s only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey.

Visit rwjbh.org/cyberknife or call 844-CANCERNJ.

Let’s beat cancer together.

Saint Barnabas Medical Center is now Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center.

Untitled-1 1 RWJ-139 TCCCBMC_Cancer-_Cyberknife_9x10.875.indd 1

11/30/21 11/23/21 1:28 3:15 PM

{ GIFT GUIDE } PONYCYCLE U-SERIES MEDIUM BROWN PONY Walmart, Cedar Knolls, 973.889.8646

APPLE AIRPODS MAX Apple Short Hills, 973.467.4890

NALGENE FLASK REI, East Hanover, 973.581.1938

LastMinute Gifts

NIKON PROSTAFF 3S BINOCULARS DICK’S Sporting Goods, East Hanover, 973.428.0889

Did you forget someone? Kids, foodies, pets, outdoorsmen and techies—we’ve got ’em all covered.

SMEG HAND BLENDER Crate & Barrel, Short Hills, 973.379.9700

TREK DOMANE+ ALR ELECTRIC BIKE FelixBike, Florham Park, 973.377.6616

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.late gifts.indd 28

28

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/23/21 2:49 PM

THE CHILI LAB HOMEMADE HOT SAUCE KIT Williams-Sonoma, Upper Montclair, 973.783.1799

ROLEX DAYTONA PLATINUM ICE BLUE DIAL AUTOMATIC CHRONOGRAPH Michael Anthony Jewelers, West Caldwell, 973.226.2726

HANDWOVEN SEA GRASS PET STORAGE BASKET Pottery Barn, Short Hills, 973.912.0060

BRITA PLASTIC WATER BOTTLE WITH FILTER Target, Parsippany, 862.286.3568

TOP PAW CABLE KNIT PET SWEATER PetSmart, Mount Olive, 973.448.7601

DYSON HOT & COLD AIR PURIFIER AND FAN Bed Bath & Beyond, Flanders, 973.426.9299

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.late gifts.indd 29

BEDTIME TEDDY BEAR ORNAMENT Smith & Company, Caldwell, 973.228.1167

29

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/23/21 2:49 PM

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.rockettes.indd 30

30

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/19/21 2:51 PM

{ HOLIDAY TRADITION }

ROCKIN’ A DREAM

How a Nutley native realized a childhood ambition at Radio City Music Hall. By Donna Rolando School and Fordham University gave her the best of two worlds— top-notch dance and academics—right there in New York City’s Lincoln Center. There was a connection not only with The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, but also with Rockettes, who taught some of her classes. “I made it my priority to become the most versatile dancer I could be,” she says. “In the industry in New York, you have to be able to do it all.”

Yet de Nicola would face one of the greatest challenges of her career before graduating magna cum laude in 2019 with a bachelor’s in fine arts. She broke her foot in early fall of her senior year and tackled rigorous physical therapy with a dancer’s resolve.

Her stage world was at a standstill, but she kept up with studies, and she now appreciates the perspective that injury provided. “It reminded me that I’m more than a dancer,” she says. “My life is dance but I’m also Jaclyn.” She recovered in time for the dance numbers she needed to graduate. “In a weird way my injury did more for me than I could have thought.”

During this injury period and COVID, two trying times, de Nicola was encouraged by C.J., now her husband, to take her passion for cookie-making to a new level. “He bought me an intro class in cookie decorating, and I hopped to class with my boot and crutches,” she says. She launched Jazzy Jac’s Cookies to spread joy on the ’Gram when she couldn’t do so as a dancer. But now the Rockettes’ new season has taken center stage.

Making the cut for the Rockettes has led to new challenges, such as working in harmony with the “big grid on stage” that enables the precision dance lineup to look perfect from every seat. “The whole job is very physically demanding and mentally demanding too, because the Rockettes are so precise,” says de Nicola. Rehearsals are held six days a week, as everything from lighting to choreography must be flawless. Through it all, she has a mentor, Danelle Morgan, assistant dance captain and fellow Jersey girl with more than a decade on the team.

On opening night, de Nicola anticipated the jitters and knew what to do if they arose. “I try to channel that into excitement and joy,” she says, “and in a weird way the stage feels like home.”

Her greatest fans are the family that made the Christmas Spectacular the tradition she’s now recreating for the joy of others— as well as her husband C.J. Says Essex County’s new Rockette of the holiday show: “It represents so much joy and Christmas cheer, and I’m lucky to be a part of that history.”

Often, in a performer’s life, there is a dream that grabs hold of her heart and spurs her on through all the hard work and adversity to that first curtain call.

Nutley native Jaclyn de Nicola was just 3 years old when she first aspired to eye-high kick with the iconic Rockettes at Manhattan’s Radio City Music Hall.

“As a little girl I was absolutely enthralled by the Rockettes: their grace, their precision,” says de Nicola, now 24 and a Hoboken resident. “It really shaped who I was.” Considering herself lucky to be a Jersey girl, de Nicola lived close enough to see that Christmas Spectacular every year with her family—a tradition that also included Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Each show strengthened her resolve, so that when adversity came—as it did when she broke her foot during senior year at The Ailey School/Fordham University in NYC’s Lincoln Center—she never gave up.

In November, when the Rockettes took to the stage after a one-year hiatus due to COVID, de Nicola glammed it in elaborate costumes with the rest of the ritz and glitz dancers—a thrill she says is “still sinking in.” And what a year to be up on that iconic stage: There will be more Rockettes numbers than ever before during the show’s run from Nov. 5 through Jan. 2, including the return of “Snow,” a winter wonderland experience.

“It’s such a privilege to be part of a legacy that I’ve admired my whole life,” she says. “It’s definitely surreal.”

What does it take to be a Rockette? De Nicola auditioned seven times before she made it this season and will have to audition each year to keep her spot on the line. But beyond that make-or-break moment of an audition, she spent years perfecting her jazz, ballet and tap styles and developing the strength needed for her performances.

At the age of 3, she pursued dance lessons locally, then dance competitions. “Around 15 I realized this was something I really wanted to do,” she says. That’s when she took formal ballet lessons at the New Jersey School of Ballet.

While attending Immaculate Heart Academy in Washington Township, de Nicola took advantage of the musical theater program to discover the “joy of being on stage,” her favorite part. As a Rising Star Award nominee, she built upon this joy at the Summer Musical Theater Conservatory at Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn. That experience, she says, “solidified that this was something I really wanted to do and had the potential of pursuing.”

De Nicola raves about her choice of college because The Ailey MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.rockettes.indd 31

31

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/23/21 11:22 AM

{ FASHION }

Season of S tyle Ditch the ugly sweater and celebrate the most wonderful time of the year in an elegant ensemble.

These seven looks are fit for all your holiday soirées.

Photography by Daniel Springston

Dress, booties, earrings and bag by Tory Burch, Tory Burch, Short Hills, 973.379.2167.

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.fashion.indd 32

32

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/22/21 3:54 PM

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.fashion.indd 33

33

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/22/21 3:54 PM

{ FASHION }

This page: sweater, skirt and necklace by Peserico, Bloomingdale’s, Short Hills, 973.548.2200.

Opposite page: Dress by Vince, Vince, Short Hills, 973.315.1310; boots by Stuart Weitzman, Stuart Weitzman, Short Hills, 973.564.5696.

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.fashion.indd 34

34

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/22/21 3:54 PM

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.fashion.indd 35

35

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/22/21 3:55 PM

This page: checked jacket, blouse, suit pants and shoes by Carolina Herrera, chcarolinaherrera.com.

Opposite page: blouse, leather pants and bag by Rebecca Taylor, Nordstrom, Short Hills, 973.467.1500.

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.fashion.indd 36

36

DECEMBER 2021 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/22/21 3:55 PM

{ FASHION }

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.fashion.indd 37

37

DECEMBER 2021 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/22/21 3:55 PM

{ CELEBRATIONS }

THE LIFE OF THE PARTY MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.new years eve.indd 38

Whether your New Year’s Eve soirée is an annual tradition or you’re hosting one for the first time, give your guests a memorable setting to ring in 2022. You can throw the best bash of the year by following a few simple tips.

You might’ve played it safe last year and skipped the annual New Year’s get-together at your home. But now that you’re ready to be the life of the party again, it’s time to rethink the festivities and ensure your guests will be talking about the bash well into 2022. Hiring a planner for your affair is an option, but Morris/Essex Health & Life has done the next best thing: We’ve asked Jodie Lupo-Munson, owner and lead planner at Particular Planner, to open her playbook and share some secrets to throwing a memorable party.

“First, create a document that lists all your guests in one column and the probability of each guest attending in another,” she says. “This process will take a little bit of time but is really worth doing, as being organized from the start helps keep planning on track!” Choosing an overall theme or motif is a priority too, she says, and whipping out what you have stowed away for special occasions can help you stay within budget. “Using what you already have at home is a great starting point,” she says. “Now is a great time to dust off the fancy wine or champagne glasses you received as wedding presents.”

38

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/23/21 11:22 AM

Once you figure out your theme or color scheme—Instagram and Pinterest are good places to look for inspiration—“focus your décor on the main areas of the home guests will be spending time in during the event,” says Lupo-Munson. “This includes the entryway, kitchen, dining room and the room where you’ll watch the ball drop.” And get rid of anything that might distract from the décor, including unnecessary cooking appliances on the kitchen island, for example. “Instead, add smaller floral arrangements that match the centerpieces on the table.” Oversized balloons and tassel garland are good décor options too, and can complement a well-stocked bar cart. “A signature drink is a creative way to incorporate your theme,” the planner says. “Serve them in specific glassware solely for your signature drinks. I also love a custom sign that lists the ingredients.” And don’t forget to have enough confetti and champagne for when the clock strikes midnight. Noise-makers and party hats are appreciated too.

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.new years eve.indd 39

39

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/23/21 11:23 AM

{ CELEBRATIONS }

Keep revelers in awe by carrying out one motif across the board, from the decorations to the cocktails to the tablescape, says Lupo-Munson. “For the tablescape, I recommend floral centerpieces, candle light for ambiance and personalized details such as individual custom confetti poppers and a quote or wish for the new year written on a place card.” This page, left, for the pink-and-white color scheme of this party, a lively bouquet of roses, orchids, dahlias and zinnias in dusty pink adorns the table. This page, right, a collection of pink orchids festively laid on the table serves as an elegant centerpiece. Opposite page, pink and white honeycomb balls are simple yet celebratory décor, but don’t be afraid to mix in fun with the formal. “A dedicated space where guests can take photos is always appreciated,” says our expert. “You can set up your own DIY photobooth area or call in a professional.” Last but not least, don’t forget the eats. Lupo-Munson says a sit-down dinner creates a nice flow to the evening for a more intimate group of guests, but stick to lighter and more snackable foods for a larger guest list. “I suggest crowd-pleasers like a classic cheese and charcuterie board display, a crudité platter, miniature sliders, mac ‘n cheese bites and pigs in a blanket,” she says. These foods are easy for guests to enjoy while still mingling with friends.

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.new years eve.indd 40

40

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/23/21 11:23 AM

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.new years eve.indd 41

41

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/22/21 3:20 PM

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.tastes.indd 42

42

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/19/21 2:55 PM

{ TASTES }

A HEALTHY HOLIDAY

To balance the overindulgence of the season, treat your gut to any of these salads, perfect as an appetizer or as a nutritious side.

WHITE WINTER SALAD INGREDIENTS:

FOR THE SALAD: n 1 small shallot, finely chopped n 1 Tbs. lemon juice n 1 tsp. apple cider vinegar or sherry vinegar n fine sea salt n ½ tsp. Dijon mustard (optional) n 3 Tbs. olive oil n 1 Tbs. walnut oil n 5 large Belgian endives (approximately 1¼ lbs.) n 1 large or 2 small fennel bulbs (approximately 6 oz.), halved lengthwise and sliced 1/8-inch thick crosswise (use a mandoline for best results) n 4 small white (hakurei) turnips (approximately 4 oz.), sliced 1/8inch thick n 1 small or ¼ large daikon, sliced 1/8-inch thick n ghee n roasted parsnips n 1 cup walnut halves, coarsely chopped and toasted FOR THE PARSNIPS: n 1/3 cup ghee n 1 Tbs. olive oil n 2 lbs. parsnips, peeled, cut into 3- to 5-inch lengths, halved or quartered if large n 4 branches of thyme (optional) n fine sea salt

DIRECTIONS:

To make the parsnips, preheat oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Place ghee and olive oil onto the prepared pan and slide it into the oven for 2 to 3 minutes, or until most of the ghee has melted. Carefully (the pan will be hot) toss parsnips, thyme (if using) and warm fat; season generously with salt and toss once more.

Spread parsnips into one even layer. Roast parsnips, tossing once or twice, until tender and properly brown (deep golden all over and dark brown in spots), 45 to 55 minutes. Or let the roots cool to room temperature.

Ghee-roasted parsnips can be refrigerated overnight and reheated in a 300°F oven for 15 minutes.

To make the salad, in a large mixing bowl, whisk together the shallot, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar and a pinch of salt and set aside for 5 minutes or so.

Whisk in the Dijon (if using), olive oil and walnut oil.

Cut an inch off the bottom of each endive and discard.

Gently peel back the leaves, continuing to trim the root as you go, until you get to the core (with tightly bunched leaves attached); cut each core in half lengthwise. Add the endive leaves and cores, fennel, turnips, daikon and a pinch of salt to the bowl of vinaigrette and toss gently to coat.

“Ghee is a great alternative to butter for cooking due to the higher smoke point. Ghee is considered a healthy fat and has a sweet, nutty and rich taste, which enhances the flavors of this dish.”

—Donna Kritzer, registered dietitian nutritionist, DK Nutrition, Florham Park

On a large serving platter, layer the roasted parsnips with the endive salad and toasted walnuts. Complete this layering process until the ingredients are all incorporated. Serve at once.

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.tastes.indd 43

Serves 6

43

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/23/21 11:23 AM

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.tastes.indd 44

44

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021/2022

11/19/21 2:55 PM

{ TASTES }

LITTLE GEM SALAD WITH LEMON AND BOTTARGA Serves 4-6

INGREDIENTS:

FOR THE SALAD: n 4-6 heads little gem lettuce, approximately 1½ lbs., or any small, crisp lettuce such as baby romaine n fine sea salt n zest of 1 lemon (use a microplane for best results) n ¼ cup grated bottarga (use a microplane for best results) n 2 green onions, white and light-green parts, thinly sliced on the diagonal FOR THE DRESSING: n 1 Tbs. lemon juice n 3 Tbs. olive oil n fine sea salt

DIRECTIONS:

To make the dressing, mix the lemon juice, olive oil and a few pinches of sea salt in a jar. Set aside.

Place the little gem leaves and cores in a large mixing bowl and season with 1 to 2 pinches of salt. Drizzle about 3 tablespoons of the vinaigrette or dressing over the leaves and gently toss, adding more as needed, until every leaf is dressed.

Arrange the leaves on a large serving platter— “cup” side up—and top with half of the remaining ingredients. Repeat layering once more. Serve immediately.

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.tastes.indd 45

45

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/23/21 11:24 AM

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.tastes.indd 46

46

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/19/21 2:56 PM

{ TASTES }

ROASTED WINTER SQUASH WITH PUMPKIN SEEDS AND DULSE

Serves 4-6

INGREDIENTS:

n 1 kabocha squash (approximately 3 lbs.), stemmed, peeled, seeded n fine sea salt n 2 chile de arbol n a few sprigs rosemary or marjoram (optional) n 2 Tbs. olive oil, plus more for roasting n scant ¼ cup pumpkin seeds, toasted n 1 heaping Tbs. (loosely packed) dulse flakes n ½ tsp. red wine vinegar, divided n 1 tsp. pumpkin seed oil or olive oil n 2 tsp. lemon juice n 2 handfuls tender greens (approximately 2 oz.), ideally a mix of sweet and spicy varieties (such as pea shoots, fava leaves, mizuna, arugula, frisée and/or mâche) n 1/3 cup (loosely packed) edible flower petals (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 450°F. Line 2 rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper. Cut the pumpkin into about 1½-inch wedges and divide between the 2 pans. Toss each batch with 2 pinches of salt, 1 chile de arbol, a rosemary or marjoram sprig or two (if using) and olive oil to coat (approximately 3 tablespoons per baking sheet). On each pan, spread the wedges in a single, sparse layer. Roast 40 to 45 minutes, or until tender and caramelized, turning the pieces halfway through (use a spatula, as tongs break up the flesh) to ensure even browning.

Meanwhile, chop the toasted pumpkin seeds and dulse with a small pinch of salt until you have a mix of crumbs and shards (or use a spice grinder—but don’t grind it too fine). Throw this mix into a small bowl and toss with ¼ teaspoon vinegar and 1 teaspoon pumpkin seed oil. In another small bowl, stir together the lemon juice with a pinch of salt and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Set both bowls aside.

Once the pumpkin is ready, drizzle a little vinegar all over (this is easiest if you have your vinegar in a fine-tipped squeeze bottle, but a small spoon works too). Let the pumpkin cool slightly; discard the chile and herb sprigs.

Scatter half of the greens on a large, flat platter or divide among plates; drizzle half the lemon dressing evenly over the top. Place the pumpkin on top, then another scattering of greens and the pumpkin-seed-and-dulse mixture. Drizzle the remaining lemon dressing all over, and top with edible flower petals, if you’d like.

Kabocha squash, like other orange vegetables, is an excellent source of Vitamin A, which is important for immune function (think cold and flu season!), healthy skin and eyesight.

The dulse flakes (aka seaweed) and pumpkin seeds not only add crunch to this recipe but also a boost of gutfriendly fiber.”

—Eileen Vider, registered dietitian nutritionist, Eileen Vider Nutrition, Roseland

All photos and recipes are reprinted with permission from The Modern Larder: From Anchovies to Yuzu, a Guide to Artful and Attainable Home Cooking by Michelle McKenzie. Photos by Rich Poon. Roost Books 2021.

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.tastes.indd 47

47

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/29/21 8:07 AM

senior living guide SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

SeniorLivingCover_V2.indd 1 SeniorLiving_SS_1221_v1_ME.indd 48 SeniorLivingGuide_FP_Cover_V1_VM.indd 1

11/22/21 11/4/21 10:42 12:23 AM PM 2/12/20 2:10 PM

“I love it here!

I couldn’t have made a better choice.”

– Beverly B., a community resident

Lantern Hill is the premier senior living community in New Providence, New Jersey.

Here, you’re free to live the independent life you want with an added safety net of support.

• Go freely about your life and pursue the activities you love on our green and spacious campus.

• Be part of a connected community filled with friends, neighbors, and a dedicated staff.

14558376

• Gain time and freedom from the hassle and expense of house repairs.

Discover senior living at Lantern Hill!

Call 1-800-610-2631 or visit LanternHillCommunity.com for your free brochure.

New Providence LanternHillCommunity.com

CHELSEA SENIOR LIVING Chelsea Senior Living is a leader in Assisted Living, Independent Living, and Memory Care with locations in nine counties including Morris. Chelsea offers residents an upgraded lifestyle and unprecedented care tailored to each resident’s changing needs. Chelsea partners with the area’s leading therapy providers, physicians, pharmacies, hospice care, and specialists, among others. Every Chelsea community is in compliance with COVID-19 regulations.

1.877.243.5732 | WWW.CHELSEASENIORLIVING.COM

JOB HAINES HOME For almost 125 years, the Job Haines Home has welcomed seniors to our gracious home and helped them make it their own. We give each member of our resident community the care they need in a safe and secure environment. But we also know that each deserves to be treated with DIGNITY, appreciation for their INDIVIDUALITY, and understanding of their desire for INDEPENDENCE. Those are the three core values at the heart of the Job Haines Home mission.

250 BLOOMFIELD AVE., BLOOMFIELD, NJ 973.743.0792 | WWW.JOB-HAINES.ORG

10:42 AM 2:10 PM

SeniorLiving_SS_1221_v1_ME.indd 49

11/22/21 12:23 PM

► New Building ► Modern Design ► 5-Star Services ► Spacious Apts. ► Skilled Staff ► Premium Care

Luxury Living at The Chelsea at Clifton

► Relaxed Setting ► Vibrant Community ► 5-Star Services ► Charming Design ► Skilled Staff ► Premium Care

Distinguished Living at The Chelsea at Montville

Get into the holiday spirit at The Chelsea

Happy Holidays

SCAN BARCODE WITH PHONE FOR WEBSITE

ASSISTED LIVING-MEMORY CARE-RESPITE STAYS

SCAN BARCODE WITH PHONE FOR WEBSITE

165 Changebridge Road Montville, NJ 07045 (973) 402-1100

782 Valley Road Clifton, NJ 07013 (973) 685-6433

Discover the Job Haines Difference Over a century of compassionate care and innovation in senior living

► Awarded Advanced Standing by the NJ Department of Health & Senior Services 10 years in a row ► Outstanding reputation in the community and with local hospitals and physicians ► Rated a Five Star Nursing Facility. Very high staff to resident ratio

Schedule a visit and experience the difference firsthand.

ASSISTED LIVING ♦ LONG-TERM CARE ♦ SUB-ACUTE REHABILITATION ♦ RESPITE CARE ► 250 Bloomfield Avenue, Bloomfield, NJ 07003 ► 973-743-0792 ► www.job-haines.org

SeniorLiving_SS_1221_v1_ME.indd 50

11/22/21 12:23 PM

{ BAR TAB }

Southern Comfort

The complex—and strong—flavors of this old-fashioned New Orleans cocktail will bring warmth to all your winter festivities.

LA LOUISIANE Yields: 1 serving

INGREDIENTS

n 2 oz. rye whiskey n 1 oz. sweet vermouth n 1 oz. Benedictine n 1 tsp. absinthe n 3 dashes Peychaud’s bitters n maraschino cherries, preferably Luxardo, for garnish n ice, for mixing

DIRECTIONS

Add all ingredients to a cocktail mixing glass (or any other type of glass). Fill the glass with 1 handful ice and stir continuously for 30 seconds until very cold.

Strain the drink into a cocktail glass. Garnish with a Luxardo cherry.

Recipe courtesy of acouplecooks.com

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.spirits.indd 51

51

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/19/21 2:52 PM

{ 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.

FAIRFIELD JOSE TEJAS 647 Rte. 46 W. 973.808.8201 bordercafe.com

RESTAURANT SERENADE IN CHATHAM

TIERNEY’S COPPERHOUSE 4 Little Falls Rd. 973.227.6066 tierneyscopperhouse.com

HANOVER SEASONS 52 1402 Rte. 10 862.242.2750 seasons52.com

KINNELON CYPRESS TAVERN 174 Kinnelon Rd. 973.492.2700 cypresstavernnj.com HOUSE OF THAI 1483 Rte. 23 # 6 973.750.1600 SAN GIORGIO’S ITALIAN BISTRO 86 Boonton Ave. #86 973.492.5305 SMOKE RISE VILLAGE INN 9 Perimeter Rd. 973.838.7770 smokerisevillageinn.com

LAKE HOPATCONG BOONTON

SOLAR DO MINHO 15 Cleveland St. 973.844.0500 solardominhobelleville.com

BOONTON SUSHI HOUSE 701 Main St. 973.394.8811 sushiboonton.com

TOPAZ THAI 137 Washington Ave. 973.759.7425 topazthainj.com

ROMA PIZZERIA 709 Main St. 973.335.1614 romapizzaofboonton.com

BLOOMFIELD

THAI PING 811 Main Ave. 973.335.9541 thaiping.com

BINH DUONG 61 Belleville Ave. 973.680.8440 STAMNA 1055 Broad St. 973.338.5151 stamnataverna.com

*

CALDWELL FORTE 182 Bloomfield Ave. 973.403.9411 fortepizzeria.com

HOKKAIDO NOODLE & ROLL 405 Bloomfield Ave. 862.702.3817 hokkaidoroll.com

SCALINI FEDELI 63 Main St. 973.701.9200 scalinifedeli.com

THE PASTA SHOP 13 First Ave. 973.253.4143 thepastashopdenville.com

CEDAR KNOLLS

CHESTER

DOVER

THE PUBLICK HOUSE TAVERN & INN 111 Main St. 908.879.6878 chesterpublickhouse.com

THE QUIET MAN 64 E. McFarlan St. 973.366.6333 quietmanpub.com

REDWOODS GRILL & BAR 459 Main St. 908.879.7909 redwoodsgrillandbar.com

DON JOSE 200 Rte. 10 W. #7 973.781.0155 donjosemexican.com

H2OCEAN RESTAURANT & RAW BAR 41 Ridgedale Ave. 973.984.9594 h2oceanrestaurant.com

CHATHAM RESTAURANT SERENADE 6 Roosevelt Ave. 973.701.0303 restaurantserenade.com

DENVILLE ALEXIS DINER 3130 Rte. 10 W. 973.361.8000 alexisdinerrt10.com

Readers should contact restaurants regarding dining protocols and services, as state safety regulations continue to change.

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.WTE.indd 52

52

EAST HANOVER

MR. CHU 44 Rte. 10 W. 973.887.7555 PENANG 200 Rte. 10 W. #8 973.887.6989 penangcuisine.com

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

PAVINCI ITALIAN GRILL 453 River Styx Rd. 973.770.4300 pavinci.com THE WINDLASS 45 Nolans Pt. Park Rd. 973.663.3190 thewindlass.com

LEDGEWOOD ICHIBAN SUSHI 1034 Rte. 46 973.252.0900 ichibanroxbury.com LOVING HUT 538 Rte. 10 973.598.9888 lovinghut.us/ledgewood

LINCOLN PARK 202 ITALIAN BISTRO 177 Main St. 973.709.0093 202bistro.com

Photos courtesy of Restaurant Serenade, Stefano’s Restaurant.

BELLEVILLE

11/23/21 11:24 AM

ANTHONY FRANCOS 60 Beaverbrook Rd. 973.696.0708 anthonyfrancospizza.com SUNSET PUB & GRILL 425 Beaverbrook Rd. 973.694.8700 sunsetpubandgrill.com

RIVAAZ GASTRO BAR & INDIAN RESTAURANT 23 Rte. 23 973.686.6040 rivaaz23.com

REVOLUTION 9 South St. 973.455.0033 revolutionmorristown.com

BASILICO 324 Millburn Ave. 973.379.7020 basilicomillburn.com

NEWARK ADEGA GRILL 130 Ferry St. 973.589.8830 adegagrill.com

LITHOS 405 Eisenhower Pkwy.

973.758.1111 lithosgreekrestaurant.com

CARA MIA 194 Essex St. 973.379.8989 caramiamillburn.com

SEABRA’S MARISQUEIRA 87 Madison St. 973.465.1250 seabrasmarisqueira.com

SWEET BASIL’S CAFE 498 S. Livingston Ave. 973.994.3600 sweetbasilscafe.com

MOONSHINE 55 Main St. 973.218.6042 moonshinesupperclub.com

NUTLEY

LONG VALLEY

MINE HILL

LONG VALLEY PUB & BREWERY 1 Fairmount Rd. 908.876.1122 restaurantvillage atlongvalley.com

MADISON BEGUM PALACE 300 Main St. 973.660.9100 begumindiancuisine.com CENTRAL+MAIN 3 Central Ave. 973.845.6622 centralandmain.com IL MONDO VECCHIO 72 Main St. 973.301.0024 ilmondovecchio.com

MAPLEWOOD CODA KITCHEN & BAR 177 Maplewood Ave. 973.327.2247 codakitchenandbar.com ST. JAMES’S GATE PUBLICK HOUSE 167 Maplewood Ave. 973.378.2222 stjamesgatepublick house.com

MENDHAM THE BLACK HORSE TAVERN & PUB 1 W. Main St. 973.543.7300 blackhorsenj.com DANTE’S RISTORANTE 100 E. Main St. 973.543.5401 dantesnj.com PIATTINO 88 E. Main St. 973.543.0025 piattinonj.com

CINDERS WOOD FIRE GRILL 319 Rte. 46 973.928.7000 cinderswoodfiregrill.com

MONTCLAIR EGAN & SONS 118 Walnut St. 973.744.1413 egannsons.com

STEFANO’S RESTAURANT 565 Rte. 23 973.616.6624 stefanosrestaurant.net

QUEEN MARGHERITA 246 Washington Ave. 973.662.0007 queenmargherita.us

TAVERN 5 710 Newark Pompton Tpke.

973.835.1426 tavern5.com

BLACK RIVER BARN 1178 Rte. 10 W. 973.598.9988 blackriverbarn.com

CAPITAL GRILLE 10 Dryden Way 973.889.8622 thecapitalgrille.com

LOCANDA VECCHIA 167 Rte. 202 973.541.1234 locandavecchia.com

LA STRADA RISTORANTE 1105 Rte. 10 E. 973.584.4607 lastradarestaurantrandolph. com

CHAND PALACE 257 Littleton Rd. 973.334.5444 parsippany.chand palace.com

MORRIS PLAINS BOLLYWOOD GRILL 1729 Rte. 10 E. 973.998.6303 bollywoodgrill.net TABOR ROAD TAVERN 510 Tabor Rd. 973.267.7004 taborroadtavern.com

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE 1 Hilton Ct. 973.889.1400 ruthschris.com

TOMMY’S TAVERN 1900 Rte. 10 973.998.6429 tommystavernandtap.com

SHAN SHAN NOODLES 333 Rte. 46 973.287.7399 shanshannoodles.com

UP THAI 981 Tabor Rd. 973.998.8536 upthainj.com

PEQUANNOCK

V&J PIZZA 500 Rte. 23 973.839.9757 vandjpizza.com

RANDOLPH

PARSIPPANY

SUBURBAN BAR & KITCHEN 500 Rte. 10 W. 973.891.1776 sbknj.com VERONA RESTAURANT 1171 Sussex Tpke.

973.895.8888 veronarestaurant.com

BARDI’S BAR & GRILL 149 Newark Pompton Tpke.

973.694.1058 bardisgrill.com

53

CAFFÈ NAVONA 147 Rte. 46 W. 973.627.1606 caffenavona.com

DE NOVO EUROPEAN PUB 275 Bellevue Ave. 973.893.5008 denovoeuropeanpub.com

THAI NAM PHET 296 Rte. 46 973.627.8400 thainamphet.com

TURTLE + THE WOLF 622 Valley Rd. 973.783.9800 turtleandthewolf.com

THE EXCHANGE 160 E. Main St. 973.627.8488 exchangefood.com

WEST ORANGE

SHORT HILLS BENIHANA 840 Morris Tpke.

973.467.9550 benihana.com THE DINING ROOM 41 JFK Pkwy.

973.912.4756 LEGAL SEA FOODS 1200 Morris Tpke.

973.467.0089 legalseafoods.com

SOUTH ORANGE ARIYOSHI 56 South Orange Ave. 973.378.8818 ariyoshijapanese.com WALIA 11 Village Plz. 973.762.2186 waliarestaurant.com

TOWACO

RIVERDALE

900 DEGREES 626 Main Rd. 973.335.2555 900degreespizza.com

CONEY ISLAND PIZZA 40 Hamburg Tpke.

973.476.9223 coneyislandwoodfired pizza.com

RAILS STEAKHOUSE 10 Whitehall Rd. 973.335.0006 railssteakhouse.com

ROCKAWAY

UPPER MONTCLAIR

BRICK 46 68 Rte. 46 973.625.4900 brick46.com

MARKET TAVERNE 995 Mt. Kemble Ave. 908.502.5106 markettaverne.com MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.WTE.indd 53

POMPTON PLAINS

MEAL 433 Kingsland St. 973.542.8522 mealnj.com

HAT CITY 459 Valley St. 862.704.6248 hatcitynj.com

COLUMBIA INN 29 Rte. 202 973.263.1300 thecolumbiainn.com

CHINA PAVILION 263 Changebridge Rd. 973.227.1006 DON PEPE STEAKHOUSE 58 Rte. 46 W. 973.808.5533 donpepesteakhouse.com

AMERICAN BISTRO 24 Washington Ave. 973.235.0505 americanbistro.net

BELLA ITALIA 535 Central Ave. 973.676.4300 bellaitaliarestaurantnj.com

MONTVILLE

MORRISTOWN

BONEFISH GRILL 28 Rte. 46 973.227.2443 bonefishgrill.com

ORANGE

TOAST 700 Bloomfield Ave. 973.509.8099 toastmontclair.com

STEFANO’S RESTAURANT IN POMPTON PLAINS

PINE BROOK

CAFÉ MONET 309 Millburn Ave. 973.376.8555 cafemonet.info

LIVINGSTON

Photos courtesy of Restaurant Serenade, Stefano’s Restaurant.

MILLBURN

DAI-KICHI 608 Valley Rd. 973.744.2954 daikichimontclair.net

HIGHLAWN PAVILION 1 Crest Dr. 973.731.3463 highlawn.com THE MANOR RESTAURANT 111 Prospect Ave. 973.731.2360 themanorrestaurant.com MCLOONE’S BOATHOUSE 9 Cherry Ln. 862.252.7108 mcloonesboathouse.com

WHARTON 4 SEASONS 322 S. Main St. 862.244.9777 4seasonswharton.com THE CANAL HOUSE 47 Kossuth St. 862.244.4495 canalhousenj.com

WHIPPANY THE AULD SHEBEEN PUB 1401 Rte. 10 E. 973.583.8811 IL CAPRICCIO 633 Rte. 10 E. 973.884.9175 ilcapriccio.com MOLLY MALONE’S 352 Rte. 10 973.887.5070 mollymaloneswhippany. com TRATTORIA TOSCANA 554 Rte. 10 973.386.0303 trattoriatoscana

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/23/21 11:25 AM

Be There

{ ON THE TOWN }

In-person events are back in full swing! Here are 10 filled with fun, laughter and entertainment— and will help you safely return to normal.

Dec. 1–Jan. 2

Dec. 30

Jan. 13–17

Disney is always magical, but even more so during the most wonderful time of the year. A JOLLY HOLIDAY: CELEBRATING DISNEY’S BROADWAY HITS at Papermill Playhouse in Millburn combines the joy of the season with classic hits from Disney favorites, including Mary Poppins, Frozen, Aladdin and Beauty & The Beast, all performed by Broadway stars. Some performances feature “audience enrichments” including a cast Q&A and a pre-show discussion with the director, so go to my.papermill.org/jolly-holiday/1935 for show times, details, ticketing etc. Tickets range from $36–$98.

Nope, not even the second-tolast day of the year is too late to learn a new hobby. Give glassblowing a go at THE MORRIS COUNTY SCHOOL OF GLASS NEW YEAR’S EVE EVE CELEBRATION at 6 p.m., featuring two hours of playing with 2,100 degree molten glass. Participants will go home with the item they created after ending the evening with a toast to 2022. Admission is $95 and includes all supplies and end-of-night champagne. Guests must be 18 to enter and 21 to drink. Tickets must be purchased in advance online at mcsog.com.

See your favorite Disney characters like you’ve never seen them before—on skates—when DISNEY ON ICE: LET’S CELEBRATE makes a tour stop at Prudential Center in Newark for a series of performances in early 2022. Olaf will sing about summer and Forky will dance with the Toy Story gang in this must-see show that’s a family holiday tradition. For show times, ticketing info and more, go to prucenter.com/events/disney-on-ice-letscelebrate.

Dec. 5–22 Get in the holiday spirit — and get some decorating inspo—at the CRANE HOUSE & HISTORIC YWCA HOLIDAY DECORATIONS self-guided tours at the Montclair History Center in Montclair. Every Wednesday and Sunday from 10 a.m.– 2 p.m., explore this 225-year-old home and other period holiday decorations set up by the Garden Club of Montclair.

Admission is FREE and guests of all ages are welcome. Learn more by emailing mail@montclairhistory.org.

Dec. 16 Transport yourself back to the era of swing music with a night of fun at BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY’S WILD & SWINGIN’ HOLIDAY PARTY, a live concert at The Wellmont Theater in Montclair. For almost 30 years, this trio has been performing in venues across the globe (and on TV shows like Dancing With The Stars), and their holiday show combines their swing and jazz style with festive tunes of the season. The show starts at 8 p.m., and tickets begin at $25. Learn more at wellmonttheater.com.

Dec. 31-Jan. 3 If you prefer to stay in when the ball drops, book your virtual ticket to FIRST NIGHT MORRIS 2022, a live and virtual program featuring more than 100 artists with 30 plus performances ranging from music and comedy to world cultures and children’s performers. Ticket holders will also get access to more than 80 film screenings and on-demand entertainment into the new year. The night will conclude with a countdown to the new year. Tickets are $25 each until Dec. 21. You can learn more at firstnightnj.com.

Jan. 1 New Year’s Day is the perfect time to begin your new year’s resolution, right? Kick off 2022 the right way at the 5th annual ST. MARK’S NEW YEAR’S DAY 5K in Long Valley at 11:30 a.m.. You can opt to walk or run the 5K (either way you’re getting your steps in!), but a little competition never hurt anybody.

Reward yourself at the end of the run with refreshments and bagels from Hot Bagels Abroad. Go to runsignup.com for registration times and more.

*Editor’s note: Due to COVID-19 restrictions, all events are subject to cancellations or changes. Attendees are encouraged to observe local safety guidelines.

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.bethere.indd 54

54

Jan. 15 Casey Carle, bubble artist, will burst into South Orange with BUBBLEMANIA! at the South Orange Performing Arts Center stage. This one-man show features comedy, jazz and of course, bubbles, including giant sculptures, foam and life-size soap bubbles. This 1 p.m. show is recommended for ages 5 and up.

Admission is $23. Sopacnow.org/events/ bubblemania-2022/ has the soapy scoop.

Jan. 15 For an adult night out, check out comedian TOM PAPA when his “Family Reunion Tour” comes to NJPAC in Newark. Papa can be seen (and heard) pretty much everywhere on podcasts and late-night shows (Colbert, Conan, Kimmel etc.), and now he’s making his long-awaited return to New Jersey since filming his standup special at NJPAC in 2019. Admission starts at $42.50. Find out more at njpac.org/event/tom-papa.

Jan. 26 If you’re a 2022 bride (or groom), you don’t want to miss the ELEGANT BRIDAL PRODUCTIONS wedding expo when it stops at The Mansion at Mountain Lakes at 6 p.m.. You’ll meet dozens of vendors and wedding businesses in the area, enjoy free giveaways and raffles, and hey, you just might be able to plan your wedding all in one day (give or take...).

Admission is FREE. Learn more at elegantbridal.com.

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/23/21 2:50 PM

Gatherings

Morris and Essex residents always show up to support their friends and neighbors— especially when help is needed most.

INTERFAITH FOOD PANTRY Members of the Interfaith Food Pantry Network wore purple clothing to commemorate Domestic Violence Awareness Day in October. 4 IFPN member show their support of Domestic Violence Awareness Day.

7 4

1

6

The kids at Boys & Girls Clubs Newark got a special visit from trainer CJ Crockett, who showed youngsters some simple yet effective ways to train and work out at home. The lesson was valuable as children often find it more difficult to stay active during cold months. 1 CJ Crockett, third from left, with Boys & Girls Clubs members and staff

5 MORRIS HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Approximately 40 volunteers gathered at a recent Morris Habitat luncheon to say thank you for the work that the organization does to provide housing for those in need. Also at the lunch, provided by David Alan Caterers of East Hanover, Habitat received a $50,000 donation from the Summit Civic Foundation to go toward the construction of 12 affordable housing units in Summit. 5 Volunteers gather for a photo at a Morris Habitat luncheon.

YMCA OF MONTCLAIR

2

The YMCA held its 38th annual Montclair Run this fall, attracting participants of all ages and skill levels. The 10K and 2-mile fun run raised money for the YMCA’s chronic disease programs. 2 Runners prepare to start the race.

APPLEBEE’S

3

Applebee’s, with locations in Butler, Newark and Parsippany, recently held a fundraiser that yielded more than $67,000 for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, a charity dedicated to fighting childhood cancer.

3 Liz Scott, Scott Lake, Kevin Coughlin, John Antosiewicz

6 NJ SHARING NETWORK The New Jersey Chamber of Commerce and the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey honored Joseph S. Roth of NJ Sharing Network as a “Champion of Diversity” for his outstanding work in promoting equal economic opportunity and diversity in New Jersey. 6 E. Denise Peoples, Ametra Burton, Salvatore La Mantia, Kelly Bonventre, Joseph S. Roth, Elisse E. Glennon

3 MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.gathering.indd 55

55

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

Boys & Girls Clubs (1), YMCA of Montclair (2), BML Public Relations (3), Interfaith Food Pantry (4), Morris Habitat for Humanity (5), NJ Sharing Network (6)

BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS NEWARK

11/23/21 1:35 PM

{ A MORRIS/ESSEX MOMENT }

“I was heading home from Grover Cleveland Park in Caldwell and saw this sunset.

It looked like the sky was on fire! It took my breath away, and I knew I needed to capture it. No matter how many sunsets I see and photograph, they’re always so different and really make you stop to appreciate nature’s beauty. A sunset is the end of one day but promises the start of a new one.”

Morris/Essex Health & Life Volume 19, Issue 6 (ISSN# 2573-8151 and USPS 025-351) is published 6 times a year by Wainscot Media, One Maynard Dr., Park Ridge, NJ 07656. Postmaster: Send address changes to Subscription Department, Wainscot Media, One Maynard Dr., Park Ridge, NJ 07656. Periodicals postage paid at Mahwah, NJ, and additional mailing offices.

MSXHEALTHANDLIFE.COM

MSX.1221.moment.indd 56

56

*

Send us your Morris/Essex Moment! Email your photo and a short description to editor@wainscotmedia.com.

Photo courtesy of Elena Miller. Instagram: @weathergirl888

—Elena Miller, Chester Township

DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022

11/19/21 2:50 PM

NOW IS THE TIME TO DESIGN AND BUILD YOUR DREAM MEDICAL OFFICE WITH THE MDB TEAM!

Accepting NEW projects for 2023 Schedule your appointment today!

Working with doctors every step of the way and focusing on every aspect of their vision from the design and color pallet to the architecture and final build. From planning and construction, to medical IT and regulation compliance, we are the one-stop solution for healthcare construction!

Visit our website to view our full gallery of our beautiful finished office spaces doctorsofficedesign.com

1103 Bloomfield Ave, West Caldwell, NJ 07006 | 973.287.3489 | doctorsofficedesign.com

MedicalDental_FP_CF_1221_JF_V2.indd Untitled-2 1 1

11/22/21 11/8/21 12:16 9:39 AM PM

COSMETIC PLASTIC SURGERY OF THE FACE, BREAST & BODY

MOKHTAR ASAADI, MD, FACS CHAIRMAN, DEPT OF PLASTIC SURGERY, ST. BARNABAS MEDICAL CENTER WWW.ASAADIPLASTICSURGERY.COM

BEFORE & AFTER BILATERAL UPPER AND LOWER BLEPHAROPLASTY WITH CORRECTION OF FESTOONS

Untitled-2 1

NJ OFFICE | 973.731.7000 101 OLD SHORT HILLS RD., SUITE 504, WEST ORANGE, NJ 07052 NY OFFICE | 212.938.0158 620 PARK AVE., NEW YORK, NY 10065

LIST OF PROCEDURES • BLEPHAROPLASTY AND CORRECTION OF FESTOONS, MALAR BAGS AND DIFFICULT EYELIDS • FACELIFT AND NECKLIFT • RHINOPLASTY • BREAST AUGMENTATION, LIFT AND REDUCTION • “CORE ABDOMINOPLASTY”(TUMMY TUCK WITH REPAIR OF ABDOMINAL MUSCLES) • “MASTERTUCK” (VASER ULTRASOUND LIPOSUCTION) • BOTOX, FILLERS, ULTHERAPY, LASER • SKINCARE, PRP FACIAL, MICRONEEDLING, HYDRAFACIAL, MICROBLADING/PERMANENT MAKEUP

11/22/21 12:16 PM