Morris Essex Health & Life: Oct/Nov 2022

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CONTENTS

GO WHERE THE PROS GO

To

spots.

Features

20 Years of Morris/Essex Health & Life | 14

There have been ups and downs in the past two decades, but constants too. Our counties remain a great place to live, and we who are privileged to live here still care about our neighborhoods— and our neighbors.

Your Prediabetes

Questions, Answered | 22

In addition to lifestyle changes, the PREVENT T2 Program, offered at The Center for Diabetes Wellness and Prevention at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, is a CDC accredited program to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes.

Survivor Strong | 24

Meet four women with four different inspiring breast cancer stories, all of whom chose to undergo treatment at CBMC.

Breaking Ground | 26

Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center’s new Comprehensive Cancer Center will be RWJBarnabas Health’s northern hub for world-class cancer care.

Welcome to the Team | 27

Get to know Brett L. Ecker, M.D., an exceptional physician who joins the Division of Surgical Oncology at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center and Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey.

Beauty, Plus

A Memory | 28

In a North Caldwell master bedroom, a Japanese aesthetic brings serenity—and a special association for the homeowner.suburban character could—in some places— be increasingly at risk.

ON THE COVER:

Interior designer Terri Fiori gives a North Caldwell bedroom a Japanese-inspired aesthetic. Photo by Mike Van Tassel.

Departments

Morris/Essex Buzz | 11

Our guide to new ideas, tips, trends and things we love in the counties.

Your Friends & Neighbors | 16

Some kids play little league. Chris Soucy grew up rehabbing wild birds.

For Men Only | 17

Lead the fashion pack this fall with these stylish cold-weather must-haves.

Style Watch | 18

Maximize your fall look with to-the-floor skirts, which pair perfectly with a blouse or a sweater.

Home Front | 19

These small tables are big on style.

Tastes | 40

Our back busy back-to-the-grind routines are in full swing. Make it easy with these three delicious meals. Just toss a salad, and you’re all set.

Power Food | 46

Will this little-known, gluten-free seed called teff find a place on your plate?

Gatherings | 63

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

A Morris/Essex Moment | 64

A Mendham farm owner and her trusty assistant/pup catch a rainbow in the sky during some downtime.

“She gave me my life back”

“It started out as a normal outing. My wife and I had to run to the grocery store. We were driving down the road casually going over our shopping list when the car ahead of me started to slow down, anticipating the yellow light. I started to move my foot from the gas to the brake as any normal person would do when they see brake lights in front of them, but I couldn’t. I couldn’t feel my foot. The car kept moving forward, and I just couldn’t get my foot on the brake. And CRUNCH! I finally came to a stop when I hit the car in front of me.”

This tragic story was shared with us by John M., a Millburn resident, who has Peripheral Neuropathy. And while no one was hurt in this accident, John M. had suffered almost every day for the past 8 years with tingling and burning in his feet until numbness set in and he could no longer feel even the brake pedal beneath his foot.

“The first stage is pain,” shares Dr. Alek sandra Mihajlovic, DTCM, L.Ac. of Sasha Acupuncture & Herbal Medicine. “You feel burning, tingling, sharp pains, or you feel like you’re walking on broken glass. This pain eventually subsides, and the numbness sets in. Unfortunately, with the numbness comes a lot of other problems.”

This was the case with John. “I said I wasn’t going to drive again. What if that had been a pedestrian?”

It is terribly common that Peripheral Neuropathy and its debilitating symptoms interfere with a person’s ability to live their life. John was now reliant on his wife to drive him around; even the simple pleasure of cruising down to the shore or taking her out to dinner was outside his capabilities. And even more common, John’s general practitioner and several specialists told him there was nothing they could do other than prescribe him medications that would ease the pain of his Neuropathy.

That’s where Dr. Aleksandra, and her staff at Sasha Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine come in. “About 75% of our current patients come to us suffering from the same condition as Mr. John,” says Dr. Aleksandra Mihajlovic, DTCM, L.Ac.

“They’re in constant pain from Neuropathy, and it prevents them from not only living their lives, but more importantly, it prevents them from enjoying it. Depending on the severity of their nerve damage, we typically see tremendous progress in 3-4 months of treatment. I like to say we’re in the business of making your golden years golden.”

“I can’t lie,” confides John. “I was skeptical at first. My doctor told me there was nothing that could be done, and then, there’s an acupuncturist right here in Montclair who tells me she can help. Turns out she was right. After about four months of treatments, I was able to confidently drive myself to my appointments! My wife and I celebrated by buying ourselves a new car! It’s hard to put into words how incredible this is, quite frankly, I feel like I got my life back.”

While Sasha Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine specializes in acupuncture, and it’s definitely part of their protocols in treating Neuropathy, the real secret is in a more modern medical solution called ATP Resonance Biotherapy™. “This technology was originally developed by NASA to expe dite healing and recovery,” shares Tammy, a patient care coordinator at the clinic. “It’s like watering a plant. ATP Resonance Biotherapy™ stimulates the blood vessels to grow back around the peripheral nerve and provide them the proper nutrients to heal and repair.”

You can learn more about Dr. Aleksandra Mihajlovic, DTCM, L.A.c., by visiting www. SashaAcupuncture.com. If you’re ready to schedule a consultation, call 973-444-8932 and do so quickly. Sasha Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine is a very intimate clinic and the staff takes pride in their ability to take their time with each patient, so they are very limited in their ability to take on new patients.

Sasha Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine

19 Grove Street, Montclair 973-444-8932 www.SashaAcupuncture.com

A Fall

Celebrate

As the chill of fall sets in, we’re reminded of the upcoming holidays and festivities to come in the last quarter of the year. But October and November also mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Lung Cancer Awareness Month, respectively, which bring awareness to these cancers and empower those with the disease.

In this issue of Morris/Essex Health & Life, you’ll meet four inspiring breast cancer survivors who were or are currently undergoing breast cancer treatment at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center (CBMC). Each has her own story and journey, but they all have one thing in common—strength and resilience. Learn more on page 24.

We’re also happy to share that CBMC has officially broken $225

BARRY H. OSTROWSKY Chief Executive Officer RWJBARNABAS HEALTH

RICHARD DAVIS President and Chief Executive Officer COOPERMAN BARNABAS MEDICAL CENTER

Your Home Can Be What You Make It

It’s fall, and that means it’s time for Morris/Essex Health & Life’s annual Home Issue. With temperatures falling and holidays on the way, home is where most of us will soon be spending more time. That’s an editor’s cue to take a fresh look indoors, at our homes and their possibilities. By definition they’re our “everyday” environments, but everyday needn’t mean humdrum. And crafting our homes to fit our varied lifestyles can give us a glimpse of what we’re all about—and what we value.

A North Caldwell couple, for example, wanted their dark and dated bedroom to become a space for serenity and tranquility (page 28). Designer Terri Fiori came in and hit the mark by adding an accent wall with Japanese-inspired blossoms. It’s a design that the wife holds close to her heart: It reminds her of her father, who spent time in Japan, and it’s a nod to her husband’s surprise 50th birthday gift to her: a trip to the Orient.

How can you design your home to reflect your spirit and accommodate what you most enjoy? A shopping trip may help—the one you’ll take after reading “Go Where the Pros Go” on page 32. Here, six local designers reveal where they themselves shop, category by category, for the interiors they design. Lighting? Furniture? Rugs? You get the picture. And check out the “uplifting” colors that will be prominent in interior design in ’23 (page 11), small tables that make a big style statement (page 19) and comfortfood recipes (page 40) that exude homey appeal on an enticing dinner plate.

We’re hoping you feel at home with this issue, even when—as always— we take on a variety of topics. Like breast cancer (for Breast Cancer Awareness Month) and a did-you-know quiz (page 11). And easy-to-reach destinations where fall colors will absolutely dazzle (page 12).

All that and more finds a home in this Home Issue. Enjoy!

The best care for your heart, and for everyone in it.

New Jersey’s top TAVR program.

Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center has a passion for heart health. Our cardiac specialists, who diagnose and treat all cardiac conditions, lead our multidisciplinary team, including Magnet-recognized nurses. We’re at the forefront of innovation in critical and surgical cardiac care, including transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and transcatheter mitral valve replacement. And, as the state’s largest cardiac rhythm disorder center, we offer the largest left atrial appendage closure program with the newest device for treatment. It’s all part of our dedication to every heart in our community. Learn more at rwjbh.org/tavr

Rita Guarna Editor in Chief editor@wainscotmedia.com

Editor in Chief

GUARNA

CADICINA LAW, LLC IS A DIVORCE AND FAMILY LAW FIRM LOCATED IN MORRISTOWN, NJ that handles all aspects of complex divorce matters. As astute interpreters of New Jersey law and experienced litigators in the courts throughout New Jersey, the firm’s attorneys fearlessly advocate on behalf of their northern New Jersey clients and strive for the best possible results.

Joseph P. Cadicina, a family law veteran for over 20 years leads this team of respected and recognized matrimonial attorneys. Mr. Cadicina is the Immediate Past President of the Morris County Bar Association and a Past President Morris County Bar Foundation.

Angela M. Scafuri has practiced family law for nearly two decades. Ms. Scafuri is the Past President of the Morris County Bar Foundation and President of the Morris County Bar Association. Cadicina Law Attorneys have been featured in New Jersey Monthly Magazine’s “Super Lawyers”, “Best Lawyers” as published in US News & World Report, and in New Jersey Family Magazine’s “Best Lawyers for Families” and frequently present at local and state conferences on family law and matrimonial issues.

FLANNERY

BREAST-CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

A BREAST-CANCER QUIZ

Breast cancer will claim the lives of about 42,500 Americans this year.

If you’re a woman at average risk, the American Cancer Society (ACS) says that at age 40 you have the option to begin annual mammogram screening—and once you reach 45 it becomes more than an option; it should top your to-do list for sure. (If you’re at high risk, consult your doctor.)

How well do you understand breast cancer? The true-false quiz here should help you find out.

True or false?

1. Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S.

2. Breast cancer is only found in women.

3. A woman’s risk of breast cancer nearly doubles if she has a mother, sister or daughter who has been diagnosed with the illness.

4. Most breast lumps are cancerous.

5. The most significant risk factor for breast cancer is lifestyle/BMI.

6. Following a diagnosis of metastatic or stage IV breast cancer, the patient may still be undergoing treatment even after the disease is “cured” or goes into remission.

7. A clear mammogram means you don’t have to worry about breast cancer for at least the next year.

8. Women should perform a breast selfexam monthly.

9. Breast cancer invariably causes a lump you can feel.

Black women are more likely to die from breast cancer than from any other cancer.

Join the fight

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and now’s the time to join the battle to end breast cancer if you haven’t already. Several events in our neighborhood will support the men and women fighting this illness and those who’ve survived it:

• Making Strides of Newark Sunday, Oct. 16, 10 a.m. In association with the American Cancer Society, this walk takes place at Mulberry Commons Park in Newark. For more info, email newarknjstrides@cancer.org.

• Making Strides of Parsippany Sunday, Oct. 23, 8 a.m. Meanwhile, a similar walk will be held the following weekend in Morris County at the Century Office Campus. For more info, email melissa.gargantiel@cancer. org.

HUES FOR ’23

Your home should be a reflection of you. That’s the idea behind Sherwin-Williams’ Colormix 2023 Collections, which predict the colors we’ll be seeing more of in our homes next year. One collection, titled Terra, features a cohesive palette of soothing colors—think along the lines of rich earth tones and natural clays—that the brand describes as “natural, inventive, warm and uplifting.” Essentially, this is where interior design is headed, and who can say no to a room that’s relaxing and soothing? Check out the full paint collection and the lookbooks at your local Sherwin-Williams— there are stores in Fairfield, East Hanover, Newark and Bloomfield.

PUPPY LOVE

Dog: Rosie, 7-yearold Bichon/Shih Tzu mix

Owners: Ed & Mindy Patrisso of Caldwell Mindy and Ed love dogs. However, because Mindy is allergic, they never sought their own until they realized how much their young twins also wanted a dog. Mindy secretly took allergy shots for four years in order to be able to surprise the children with a puppy.

When the time finally came and the Patrissos met Rosie, it was love at first sight. “Rosie literally picked us out,” Ed tells Morris/Essex Health & Life “She immediately took to biting our shoelaces and playfully taunting us to her chase her.”

Rosie loves people, rolling on her back and having her belly rubbed. All seven pounds of her like to chase deer, squirrels and other wildlife. Her talents include “hula dancing” on her hind legs and making noises that sound like speaking whenever someone comes home or if she wants her favorite table food, a slice of cheese.

Want to see your dog or cat featured in an upcoming issue? Email a photo and brief description of your pet to Editor in Chief Rita Guarna at rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com.

‘TREATS’ WITHOUT EATS

THE LEAVES THEY ARE A-CHANGIN’

Leaf it to North Jersey to put on a colorful autumnal show. Three spots in and around our counties are famed for their leaf-filled views at this time of year. Farny State Park in Rockaway is blooming with red, white and black oak trees, which make a gorgeous canopy of foliage—and a great home for a wide array of bird species. Hacklebarney State Park in Long Valley is a hiker’s dream in the fall, and colors along the trails are at their peak in October and November. South Mountain Reservation is the area’s largest park, spanning 2,100 acres across West Orange, Maplewood and Millburn, and has gorgeous fall colors to match; expect to see a bright array of yellow, red and orange from the oaks, birches and beeches that abound. Finally, Branch Brook Park in Newark is known for its springtime cherry blossoms, but pay it a visit this season too for a bevy of beautiful fall colors and picnic benches from which to ogle.

Candy for Halloween? It’s been done and done. Maybe this is your year to hand out something new. Parents may silently thank you if there’s one less melty chocolate bar in the bucket. (And who cares if some of those skeletons, ghosts, Demogorgons and Bezos-inSpaces look at you funny at first?) Some alternative ideas:

• Glow sticks, which can help late-night trick-or-treaters stay visible and will also come in handy on evening walks in coming weeks, as it will soon get dark early.

Popglo Bulk Glow sticks, 100 count, Walmart, Boonton, 973.299.3943

• Glow-in-the-dark vampire teeth, which are perfectly spooky and great as a costume accessory even if your youngster is Boris Johnson instead of a vampire.

Glow-in-the-dark Vampire Teeth, 12 count packs, Dollar Tree, Maplewood, 973.913.9005

• Bubble-blowing bottles that’ll keep the little ones busy on the trick-or-treating trail. (Bonus: They double as easy centerpieces for an All Hallows’ Eve party.)

Jack-o’-lantern mini bubble bottles, 144 pieces, orientaltrading.com

• Mini slime containers, a year-round hit; they’re in their glory October 31. Have the slime of your life!

Halloween slime, 12 count, Party City, East Hanover, 973.739.8771

• Halloween stamps, which will make for some seriously festive arts and crafts projects.

Tiny Mills Halloween stamps, 50 pieces, amazon.com

ITS BUSINESS

Sure, this magazine is one great resource for the latest and greatest news and events in our counties. Now there’s another. Thanks to a $15,000 grant under the Morris County Small Business Program, Parsip pany resident Frank Cahill, owner of Zoomus Market ing, has launched Morris Now, an app that con nects local businesses with residents. Featuring news alerts, events, weather updates, clas sified ads and neighborhood happenings, the app can also be used by small businesses to promote deals and specials.

Download Morris Now free from Google Play or the Apple Store, and learn more at morrisnow.com.

CULINARY CORNER

Down-home dining

Farm-to-table soul food? You can get it right here in New Jersey with the debut of Cornbread Farm-to-Soul in Montclair. This Black- and woman-owned business prides itself on a menu with made-from-scratch family recipes, featuring fried chicken, fried fish, wings and ribs. Each entrée pairs well with a Southern-inspired side—collard greens, mac and cheese or yellow rice, to name a few. Combine it with cornbread, of course, and wash it down with a sweet tea or lemonade.

• Cornbread Farm-to-Soul, 1565 Springfield Ave., Maplewood, 973.313.0328; cornbreadsoul.com/ maplewood-nj/ Taco comeback

Tacos La Gringa took a hiatus after relocating from Broad Street to downtown Bloomfield. It officially reopened at the end of summer, which means it’s business as usual for its yummy tortas, tacos, burritos and more. Eat inside the festive dining room or get your treats to go. Either way, don’t skimp on the Taco Tuesday specials, such as four tacos for $6.

• Tacos La Gringa, 547 Bloomfield Ave., Bloomfield, 973.860.7534; tacoslagringabroadst.com

Greek sneak peek

We spy… brand new signage going up in Morristown where Madame Thai used to be. The new tenant is Azure the Greek Mediterranean, which will feature a menu inspired by the Greek isles. No other details have been revealed yet—including an opening date—but stay tuned.

• Azure the Greek Mediterranean, 3 Pine St., Morristown, 973.998.9555

WELCOME TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD

If you’ve exhausted all your resources for the local paint-and-sip spots, it’s time to try a little paint and clip Casa De Flora Bar (75 Washington St., Bloomfield) is a new café-meets-flower-shop, where you’ll find caffeinated treats such as lattes and espressos and snacks like cronuts, cupcakes, sandwiches and salads. But the pièce de résistance here is the flower bar; you can pick flowers while you eat or drink to design your own bouquet. Casa De Flora also hosts private Sip and Clip events for bachelorette parties and girls’ nights. But in the meantime, you can stop by and snap some pictures while enjoying a pastry and a drink; the floral, girly décor is an influencer’s dream.

For another fun, unique and hands-on activity, check out Mud Clay Studio (370 Bloomfield Ave., Montclair). This pottery studio already has locations in Boonton and Madison; added to the lineup is Montclair, right next door to the famous Wellmont Theater. That means before or after a show you can stop on by for a one-time “claydate” or sign up for a class or workshop the whole family can enjoy.

WHAT’S YOUR APPLE AGENDA?

The tart red fruit that begins a child’s alphabet is nutritious, delicious and multiuse. But it’s also multi-type. More than 30 varietals of apples grow in New Jersey, and different kinds are best for different purposes.

Think about going to a farm market or local grower instead of a big-box store, where the origin of fruit can be unclear. Some of the most popular apples in our area are Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji and Empire. They’re all sweet, but sweetest of all is the knowledge that you’ve chosen exactly the right kind for the use you have in mind.

Here’s a cheat sheet to help you find the apple you need—and yes, they’re all available

for picking or purchasing in the Garden State:

—Best apples for baking: Braeburn, Honeycrisp, Jonagold, Winesap

—Best apples for pie: Braeburn, Granny Smith, Golden Delicious, Jonathan

—Best apples for salads: Fuji, Gala, Honeycrisp, Pink Lady

—Best apples for juicing: Fuji, Golden Delicious, Red Delicious, Pink Lady

—Best apples for snacking: Cameo, Gala, Ginger Gold, Honeycrisp

HEALTH & LIFE

YEARS

A lifetime of events has whirled by since 2002, but in some ways it seems like yesterday. Can it really be that when this publication was born that year, today’s world of social media didn’t exist, subprime mortgages seemed no problem, the idea of an African American president appeared an impossible dream, no one imagined a weather event like Superstorm Sandy and the prospect of everyone going around wearing masks was strictly sci-fi?

There have been ups and downs in the past two decades, but constants too. Morris and Essex counties remain great places to live, and we who are privileged to live here still care about our neighborhoods—and our neighbors.

We’re hopeful for a better tomorrow as this magazine celebrates its 20th year of publication. We’ve gone through our share of changes too—we’ve updated our look, for instance. But the more we change, the more we stay the same in one respect: Morris/Essex Health & Life remains committed to presenting what’s new and exciting about life in our counties and how to maximize good health to enjoy it to the full.

We’re so glad our readers and advertisers have joined us on this journey. And we thought it would be fun to take a stroll down memory lane.

Lord of the Wings

Some kids play Little League. Chris Soucy grew up rehabbing wild birds.

lege. But I knew in the back of my mind that the call would probably come one day. My dad’s health began to fail about 10 years ago, and the president of our board of trustees gave me a ring and said, “It’s time.” So I came back to my ancestral nest.

I had a sense, even as a moody teenager, that things here were really powerful. People come from all over the world to learn from what we do here, to attend our educational programs. Other people, when their parents pass on, there’s a pe riod of mourning and then they get on with their lives. I work all day, every day, in a place that is a monument to my father.

What would surprise people about raptors?

The number of special adaptations each of these birds has to do what it needs to do. For example, a peregrine falcon and a barred owl are roughly the same size. They’re both predators. You’d think they’re not that different. They have talons, sharp beaks, good eyesight. But one is adapted to hunting during the day and one at night.

What’s the most challenging species to work with?

We do get things like green herons and great blue herons. They really only eat fish. So we have to go find a bait supplier and keep a large supply of tiny fish alive in the heat of summer to feed these guys.

What’s the most unusual species you’ve treated?

Probably 30 years ago we got in an African con dor that had escaped from a zoo. Not a bird that occurs in North America. It was in rough shape, but we were able to stabilize it, get it fattened up and returned to where it came from.

In the swamps of Millington sits The Raptor Trust, a nonprofit bird rehabilitation and educa tion center that began with one man’s inability to turn away any wild bird in need of assistance. In 1968, Len Soucy and his wife, Diane, pioneers of the conservation movement and raptor advocacy, began the center. Today The Raptor Trust’s mis sion of environmental conservation, education and rehabilitation is upheld by their son Chris and his staff and volunteers. Morris/Essex Health & Life recently spoke with Chris Soucy.

What inspired your parents to start the center?

Sometime around 1951 my mother asked for a bird feeder. And now look!

In the mid-’60s, my dad became interested in hawks and their migration journeys, some travel ing thousands of miles. He became a bird bander licensed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and set up a research station along the Appalachian

Trail in the mountains of Sussex County. He got the reputation as that guy near the swamp who knew all this stuff about birds. People started bringing injured birds to the front door.

There wasn’t really anyone doing that kind of work. He was, in some ways, a pioneer—figuring things out along the way, trying to learn how to do orthopedic surgery on birds. There was no research, no protocols on anesthesia or things like that. Fortunately, he had a friend from his birdwatching club who was also a veterinarian who agreed to help. They kind of figured it out on their own.

What was it like growing up participating in wildlife conservation?

Well, I did play Little League, but only after I was done cleaning up the dead rats out of the great horned-owl cage. Every kid has chores to do; mine were pretty unique.

And this became your adult occupation?

I left New Jersey and had other careers after col

What is the hardest part about bird rehabilitation?

Not all of the birds survive. Sometimes they’re so badly compromised there’s no hope for repairing them and we have to perform humane euthana sia. That’s really hard emotionally on the staff.

How many avian patients do you get a year?

We take in between 5,000 and 6,000 birds a year. This time of year is our busiest because of the sheer volume of baby birds.

What should people do if they find an injured bird?

Call the nearest licensed wildlife rehabilitation center. The New Jersey Department of Fish and Wildlife lists them by county on its website. If a bird is obviously injured and in distress, try to get it out of danger—so put it in a box in a quiet place until contact can be made with someone who can provide assistance. That way at least the local cat doesn’t eat it.

—Emma Cameron

Hanging Out

Lead the fashion pack this fall with these stylish coldweather must-haves.

Jacket by Monfrere, Bloomingdale’s, Short Hills, 973.548.2200; sport shirt by Tintoria Mattei, tintoriamattei. it/en/; corduroy pants by Marco Pescarolo, Neiman Marcus, Short Hills, 973.912.0080; braided belt by Garmany, Garmany, Red Bank, 732.576.8500, boots by Gianvito Rossi, gianvitorossi.com.

TIE MAXI shopsuite201.

SOMERSET MAXI SKIRT Anthropologie, Montclair, 973.509.0213

To The Max

Maximize your fall look with to-thefloor skirts, which pair perfectly with a blouse or a sweater.

Short Hills 973.548.2200

HIGH WAISTED LEOPARD DRAWSTRING HI-LO MAXI SKIRT Express, Livingston, 973.535.8228

VERONICA BEARD

SKIRT

TIERED PULLON MAXI SKIRT IN VINTAGE VINES J. Crew, Short Hills, 973.912.9488

SLIT HEM SKIRT shop.mango.com

FAUX BOIS ACCENT TABLE WITH MARBLE TOP WilliamsSonoma, Upper Montclair, 973.783.1799

SEBASTIAN SIDE TABLE West Elm, Summit, 908.273.0983

Side Lines

These small tables are big

SEQUOIA END TABLE zgallerie.com

BERNHARDT LINEA METAL CHAIRSIDE TABLE Design Hub Home, Millburn, 973.258.0000

SAFAVIEH MILAN ACCENT TABLE

Safavieh, Livingston, 973.629.5800

ISLA PULL UP TABLE mgbwhome.com

SAFAVIEH DUNSTAN ACCENT TABLE

Safavieh, Livingston

ROWAN 15” MARBLE END TABLE Pottery Barn, Short Hills, 973.912.0060

COVID AND IQ

Reports of “brain fog” post a bout with COVID-19 might persist for months or longer. A recent study found that cognitive tests given six months after the illness showed slower response time and less accuracy versus subjects who hadn’t had the disease. Researchers liken the decline to losing 10 IQ points.

—eClinical Medicine

OK TO INK IT

A recent study debunked the myth that tattoos are linked to poor health, reporting that they are not related to overall health.

—International Journal of Dermatology

STEPS TO LOWER BLOOD SUGAR

A recent study found that as few as 3,500 steps daily for people with prediabetes helped reverse it and offered protection from dying prematurely.

—Diabetes Care

24The percentage of Americans— age 60 and older—who will need more than two years of paid care.

—Department of Health & Human Services

20The percentage of high school students who report having thoughts of suicide.

—National Alliance on Mental Illness

KIDS AND FERTILITY METHODS

A recent study found little difference in growth, weight and body fat levels of children conceived via fertility treatment versus those conceived naturally. And those small differences were no longer apparent by late adolescence.

JAMA Network Open

The percentage of Americans who are not in good cardiometabolic condition.

—Journal of the American College of Cardiology

DIET FOR LONG LIFE

Forget the fads. Research found that simple changes, such as eating more fruits, veggies, nuts, whole grains and legumes, and less processed foods, can add years to your life. Even adults who make those changes in their 80s can add a few years to their lives.

—PLOS Medicine

—Compiled

Paul Rance

From left to right, Michelle Pasia, MPH, RDN, Clinical Coordinator, Kogan Celiac Center; Jennifer Meyers, MS, RDN, CDCES, BC-ADM, Program Manager, Center for Diabetes Wellness and Prevention; Deanna Schweighardt, RDN, CDCES, Dietitian, Diabetes Educator, Center for Diabetes Wellness and Prevention; Elaine Atkinson, RN, CDCES, Center for Diabetes Wellness and Prevention.

GOOD

YOUR PREDIABETES QUESTIONS, ANSWERED

One in three American adults has prediabetes. In addition to lifestyle changes, the PREVENT T2 Program, offered at The Center for Diabetes Wellness and Prevention at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, is a CDC accredited program to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes.

1 in 3 American adults has prediabetes, and more than 84 percent of people with prediabetes don’t know they have it and aren’t aware of the long-term risks to their health. The key is to be aware of your risk factors and make lifestyle changes that reduce your risk for developing type 2 diabetes. A unique program offered at The Center for Diabetes Wellness and Prevention at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center (CBMC) can help.

What is prediabetes?

Prediabetes is when an individual’s blood glucose (sugar) level is higher than normal but not high enough for a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. Prediabetes can become type 2 diabetes if it’s not treated.

How common is prediabetes?

One in three American adults has prediabetes—that’s more than 90 million people.

What are the risk factors for prediabetes?

Risk factors for the disease include being overweight, 45 years or older, having an immediate relative with type 2 diabetes, physical inactivity, having had gestational diabetes, having polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and belonging to certain race and ethnicity groups. If you have any of these risk factors, ask your doctor about getting your blood sugar tested.

What are the symptoms of prediabetes?

There usually aren’t any physical symptoms of prediabetes. Even if you’re not high-risk based on the above criteria, you can see if you’re at risk by taking an online quiz at doihaveprediabetes.org/take-the-risktest/#/. If so, talk to your doctor about your options.

Can type 2 diabetes actually be prevented?

Short answer: in many cases, yes. With small, impactful changes, you can start preventing or delaying the onset of type 2 diabetes. Longer answer: The Center for Diabetes Wellness and Prevention at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center offers the PREVENT T2 Program. Prevent T2 Program, a yearlong program recognized by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and offered by The Center for Diabetes Wellness and Prevention, can help participants with prediabetes reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 58 percent.

Under the guidance of registered dietitians and certified diabetes educators, sessions at The Center for Diabetes Wellness and Prevention at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center are designed to help you lose weight, eat healthy, be more physically active and manage stress. Since The Center for Diabetes Wellness and Prevention began offering the Prevent T2 program in 2018, participants have:

• lost a total of 1,272 pounds or 5.6 percent of their body weight

• averaged 239 minutes of physical activity per week

• seen an average reduction in HbA1c (the hemoglobin test that measures your blood sugar) of 0.2 percent, which approximates to a 58 percent risk reduction of developing diabetes

The Center for Diabetes Wellness and Prevention is one of only three programs in New Jersey to have received CDC Full Plus Recognition, a designation reserved for programs that have effectively delivered a quality, evidence-based program that meets CDC recognition standards.

Lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of prediabetes too, such as:

Maintaining a healthy weight. Losing just 5 to 7 percent of your body weight can lower your risk for type 2 diabetes.

Eating healthier. Roast, broil, grill, steam or bake. Avoid frying. Don’t forget that low fat doesn’t have to mean low on flavor.

Moving your body. Try to get at least 2.5 hours of physical activity every week. Taking 30-minute walks five days per week is a good goal to set for yourself.

Quitting smoking: Those who smoke cigarettes are 30 to 40 percent more likely to develop type 2 diabetes.

To learn more about this year-long program beginning in late fall 2022 and to see if you’re eligible, please register for an Information Seminar with our registered dietitians and diabetes care and education specialists at rwjbh.org/cbmcevents or call 973.322.7007.

SURVIVOR

STRONG

MARIA GRAZIANO

Maria began getting routine mammograms at the recommended age of 40. When her first mammogram revealed dense breast tissue, her doctor recommended that she be monitored every six months. While under surveillance, at 42 years old, an MRI confirmed stage two breast cancer.

About one in eight women will develop invasive breast cancer over her lifetime, which means the chances are high that you know someone who’s been diagnosed. Luckily, if found early, breast cancer is treatable, and choosing the right team for treatment is quintessential to a successful outcome.

As you’ll learn from these women’s stories, no two breast cancer diagnoses are the same, nor are their treatment plans. The dedicated breast surgeons at The Center for Breast Health and Disease Management located at the Barnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center, along with the medical and radiation oncologists at CBMC, work collaboratively so each patient receives an individualized treatment plan that addresses all of their specific needs.

Every person’s breast cancer journey is different. Let these four women’s stories be used as a friendly reminder, especially during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, to schedule your yearly mammogram. Early detection saves lives.

Maria is a teacher, and she received a phone call with the news of her diagnosis while in school. In shock, she walked down to her principal’s office to share the news. “I want to be normal and still come to work,” Maria told him. “That was my goal. And believe it or not, I accomplished that goal,” she says.

Having trouble accepting her diagnosis, she had second and third opinions just hoping to be told a different story. No matter where she went, however, her diagnosis remained the same. Maria decided to get treatment at The Cancer Center at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, where she underwent six months of chemotherapy, a lumpectomy and 30 rounds of radiation.

“I needed my doctors to know that I had two little girls, was a wife, a mother, a sister, a daughter, and that my family needed me and I needed them. I was not ready to give up teaching, to give up my life.”

Maria had support throughout her entire journey. On her first day of chemo, her brother showed up wearing a Rocky Balboa costume, signifying that she is a fighter. When her husband couldn’t accompany her to treatment, her sister or brother stepped in. That support was continuous, and Maria was never alone. And she learned to accept the help and support.

“I know now the word ‘cancer’ does not mean game over,” Maria says. “The word ‘cancer’ means it’s time to utilize all these great resources that we have, these great doctors, these great facilities, these great medications.”

Maria’s advice? “It’s really important to remember to do your due diligence and get your annual mammogram, get your ultrasound, your MRI. You need to do it because they save lives.”

Meet four women with four different inspiring breast cancer stories, all of whom chose to undergo treatment at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center.

M. Michele Blackwood, M.D., FACS

Janette H. McDermott, M.D., FACS

SARAH BASS ASPE

Just before Christmas in 2017, Sarah Bass Aspe felt something unusual on her left breast while in the shower. Because she didn’t want to ruin her grandson’s first Christmas, she kept her suspicions to herself and scheduled an appointment with her gynecologist for after the new year. Her doctor referred her to the Breast Center at the Barnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center for a mammogram and biopsy, and the results confirmed her suspicions; she had breast cancer.

“I went back to my gynecologist and he gave me a bunch of business cards and said, ‘you have to pick three professionals,’” Sarah recalls. “I went through the cards and I picked a surgeon, medical oncologist and radiation oncologist. And I tell you what, God must have been looking down at me. I picked the right people. They brought me through a very difficult time.”

Going through treatment was not an easy task for Sarah. She often felt unwell after chemotherapy treatments and uncomfortable during radiation. Her mom accompanied her to every single appointment—surgery, chemo, radiation—and was her rock throughout it all. “She was a real trooper. That made a big difference,” says Sarah.

As an artist, Sarah pushed through using her artwork as a way of coping. “My artwork is a very important aspect that I found therapeutic because, in a way, your hands have eyes,” she says.

“Sometimes you think you can’t paint it or you can’t draw it, but you have some kind of energy that can go through you and you can create some beautiful things. That helped quite a bit.”

The cancer journey finally gave Sarah a chance to focus on herself instead of taking care of everyone else around her. Her advice to others going through a similar experience, “you just have to hang in there. There may be a rainbow at that end.”

WILLA EDGERTON-CHISLER

In 2021 when she was in her ‘60s, Willa EdgertonChisler had felt some pain and noticed a breast lump, but delayed treatment while experiencing a wave of emotions: sadness, guilt, helplessness and anxiety. While she didn’t have any risk factors or a family history, she knew she couldn’t ignore it anymore and, despite her added fear of contracting COVID, she scheduled an appointment for a biopsy.

Prior to her appointment, Willa was taken to the hospital for pneumonia. While she was there, she had imaging done, during which doctors discovered her lump was cancerous. “I sensed in my heart I had [breast cancer]. Once my oncologist confirmed it, I was like, ‘OK, what’s the game plan? Let’s go do this,’” Willa says.

Willa, who was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer, is being treated at The Cancer Center at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center with targeted hormone therapy. One year later, her cancer markers have decreased and the tumor has shrunk.

“Should I kick myself for not getting it checked earlier, well sure. But the battle is here right now,” Willa says. “When life gave me this type of circumstance, it became clear for me what my next life’s chapter purpose is about—helping others.”

When Willa started sharing her story with her circle of friends and family, she encouraged everyone to get past their fear and get a mammogram. Because of her advocacy, a few of Willa’s friends have had mammograms and were also diagnosed with various stages of breast cancer.

“It has been quite a learning and humbling journey. The power of prayer, physicians and people has given me the courage, strength and hope needed to win this battle,” she says. “As the building of my legacy continues, I don’t have any regrets. Every day is a blessing and I am grateful for the support system in my life, especially my husband, Lawrence.”

FAREEAH HARRIS

Forty-six-year-old Fareeah Harris had been feeling pain under her arm that came and went, but she didn’t think much of it. However, one night while lying in bed, Fareeah lifted her arm and noticed some soreness. She felt a lump while performing a breast self-exam and immediately called her doctor to have it examined.

“I had previously gotten mammograms every year, but when I called The Breast Center at the Barnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center to make an appointment, they told me I hadn’t been in since 2017,” Fareeah explains. Without realizing so much time had passed, “I was shocked.”

A biopsy confirmed that Fareeah had HER2+ breast cancer. “I didn’t expect my biopsy to come back malignant because I have no family history of breast cancer. It hit hard,” says Fareeah. “My body was talking to me, but I wasn’t listening.”

Fareeah chose to be treated at The Cancer Center at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, where she was enrolled into the I-SPY2 clinical trial, offering her expanded treatment options. The I-SPY2 clinical trial is adaptive, which means if the desired clinical response isn’t evident during the trial, her oncologist can pivot to a different treatment plan. After Fareeah’s first 12 rounds of chemotherapy, her tumor shrank, the lymph nodes tested benign and she successfully underwent a single mastectomy five weeks later.

Fareeah can’t wait for this journey to end so she can spend more time with her friends and family and travel the world. “Listen to your body,” she advises, “and go for your yearly mammogram.”

To schedule your mammogram at the Barnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center, call 973.322.7800 or visit rwjbh.org/mammo.

BREAKING GROUND

Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center’s new Comprehensive Cancer Center will be RWJBarnabas Health’s northern hub for world-class cancer care.

As part of the campus transformation, Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center (CBMC), an RWJBarnabas Health facility, broke ground on a five-story, 137,000 square-foot cancer center on its Livingston Campus. The $225 million, freestanding outpatient facility, scheduled for 2025 completion, will serve as the northern hub for the integrated oncology services offered by RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, the state’s only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. This innovative care model is transforming the delivery of cancer services across our state; bringing groundbreaking discoveries, clinical research and expertise from Rutgers Cancer Institute to patients close to home.

“The new Cancer Center at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center will be a regional destination for cancer care, building on the medical center’s longstanding legacy of clinical expertise and compassionate, patient-centered diagnosis and treatment,” said Richard L. Davis, the hospital’s President and CEO. “We are celebrating the dawn of a new era in world-class cancer care.”

In alignment with the theme of Reimagining Cancer Care, the new center will feature medical, surgical, and radiation oncology services under one roof—with holistic support services that include a wig and prosthetic studio, teaching kitchen and yoga, reiki and music therapy. The facility will include private infusion rooms, short-term and extended-stay treatment spaces and a calming garden terrace.

Playing a pivotal role in the hospital’s continued transformation is the generosity of Leon and Toby Cooperman, who in 2021 made a historic $100 million gift to the medical center. “We applaud the Cooperman Family Foundation for their longstanding support of our hospital and our entire community,” said Bruce Schonbraun, Chairman of the Board of Trustees at CBMC. “Their extraordinary and selfless generosity has enabled this facility to expand its footprint and attract world-class physicians to bring the best healthcare available to northern New Jersey.”

“Breaking ground on a new Cancer Center at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center is the latest example of how RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey are reimagining cancer care for the communities we serve,” added Steven K. Libutti, M.D., Director of Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey and Senior

“A cancer diagnosis is life-changing, and for many patients and their families, it is the beginning of a long and sometimes daunting journey,” said Michael Scoppetuolo, M.D., Medical Director of the Cancer Center at CBMC. “To that end, I am excited about the research and the top-quality patient care that will take place at this new center. We have an extraordinary medical staff and access to clinical trials and research which sets us apart from other institutions in the state and puts us at the leading edge.”

Alison Grann, M.D., Chair of the hospital’s Department of Radiation Oncology shared, “This new building will provide the physical environment to match the clinical excellence. This best-in-class, freestanding cancer center will provide the highest-quality science, treatment and psychosocial services available, distinguishing it from other centers in the region.”

Russell Langan, M.D., FACS, Chief of Surgical Oncology & Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, explained, “When you have clinicians together under one roof to meet regularly and collaborate, along with integrated services, you are providing peace of mind, greater convenience and a better experience for the patient.”

“For well over a century, this medical center has been committed to providing compassionate care, healthcare excellence and superior service to our patients and their families,” said Mr. Davis. “As we expand our services with facilities like this one, we remain unwaveringly focused on that mission.”

Vice President, Oncology Services at RWJBarnabas Health.

More information about the new center is available online at rwjbh.org/cbmccancercenter.

GOOD

WELCOME TO THE TEAM

Get to know Brett L. Ecker, M.D., an exceptional physician who joins the Division of Surgical Oncology at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center and Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey.

Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center (CBMC) welcomes Brett L. Ecker, M.D., the newest member of RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group and Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey (CINJ)’s Division of Surgical Oncology. Dr. Ecker joins the surgical oncology practice, led by Russell C. Langan, M.D., which, together with Rutgers Cancer Institute, is the highest-volume pancreatic cancer surgery program in New Jersey.

Dr. Ecker joins RWJBarnabas from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in Manhattan, where he finished the Complex General Surgical Oncology fellowship earlier this year. “I am joining the premier surgical oncology group for the state and will be looking to further contribute to their excellent clinical care and cutting-edge research and clinical trials,” Dr. Ecker says of what attracted him to CBMC. Already a world-recognized researcher, Dr. Ecker brings his unique research program to CBMC; “I am a surgeon dedicated to bringing the best outcomes to my patients, but I also want to be answering important research questions to bring the next era of therapies to my patients.”

One of the therapies that Dr. Ecker plans to bring to CBMC and CINJ is the hepatic artery infusion pump, a device that directs targeted chemotherapy into the liver. This pump is typically used to shrink liver tumors, and is used in conjunction with traditional chemotherapy and/or liver resections. “By year’s end, this pump will be a big part of the team-based care program for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer to the liver here at CBMC, and we’ll be the only site in New Jersey to have it.”

Along with the other oncologists in the Medical Center’s practice, Dr. Ecker anticipates using personalized treatment plans to treat each patient, as opposed to one-size-fits-all chemotherapies. “My research focuses on identifying certain genetic alterations tumors that we can

use to guide therapy,” the doctor says. This means that the tumor is sequenced to determine its genetic makeup, and then they use that data to help determine which chemotherapy to use to treat it.

Dr. Ecker’s primary specialties include pancreas, bile duct and liver cancer (both tumors that form in the liver or metastatic cancers that spread to the liver), intestinal tumors and sarcoma. However, “the overarching philosophy is that cancer care is not department-based, it’s disease-based,” he says. This means he participates in three hours of tumor boards a week, where he works with a multi-disciplinary team of medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, gastroenterologists, radiologists, pathologists, genetic counselors and dietitians. Additionally, Dr. Ecker works with these oncology providers throughout the RWJBarnabas Health system to run clinical trials. “Receiving a cancer diagnosis is a life-changing moment, and I strive to provide hope to my patients where many might find it lost,” he says.

Dr. Ecker served as Chief Fellow at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Prior to his fellowship, Dr. Ecker completed a residency along with a post-doctoral research fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. He received his medical degree at Mount Sinai School of Medicine and undergraduate degree from Brown University.

Dr. Ecker, who grew up in Westchester County, NY, lives in Essex County with his wife, Jessica, an attorney working for the U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey.

To learn more about Cancer Surgery Services at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center and the Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, call

“Receiving a cancer diagnosis is a lifechanging moment. I strive to provide hope to my patients where many might find it lost.”

Brett L. Ecker, M.D.

BEAUTY, PLUS A MEMORY

In a North Caldwell master bedroom, a Japanese aesthetic brings serenity—and a special association for the homeowner.

Text by Donna Rolando

Design by Fiori Interior Design

Photography by Mike Van Tassell

Just the right accent for a North Caldwell master bedroom, a Japanese-inspired mural from Fromental “brings the outside in” while the ivory lamps with silk shades on brass-handled nightstands build upon that Oriental charm.

2022

For one North Caldwell homeowner, beauty wasn’t enough. This empty nester valued connections to life, love and family as much as she did pure aesthetic appeal. That was the challenge facing designer Terri Fiori of the eponymous Wyckoff firm as this couple sought to transform their dark and dated master bedroom into a sanctuary, a project they retrieved from the “back burner” in 2021.

“I’m not the kind of person who will hang something on our wall just because it looks nice,” explains the retired teacher, a lawyer’s wife. “I want it to remind me of something I love or be from someone I love.” But of course an art element has to work as part of the room’s design too.

If anyone was up to the task, Fiori was. She’d designed several rooms in the couple’s four-bedroom, transitionalstyled home over the years. What would make or break the bedroom, she now realized, was the accent wall.

“I knew that whatever I put into this room, that back wall had to be spectacular,” Fiori says. “You walk in, and your eye goes straight to the back wall.”

Fiori hit the mark with Japaneseinspired blossoms from Fromental, embroidered and hand-painted on a silk background. The homeowner loves how the mural reminds her of a father who “spent a lot of time in Japan,” not to mention her husband’s surprise 50thbirthday gift to her, a trip to the Orient. Maximizing the mural, the ivory linen headboard is open to let the art peek through, Fiori says.

But the designer went a step further, working with a team to transform the wallpaper into a lasting work of art by mounting the mural on panels—five in all, spanning the wall for drama.

“They’re up there like pieces of art, and they can take them with them if they ever move,” says Fiori. And the homeowner loved how Fiori reframed Oriental block prints that were gifts from her dad to display in the room and hallway.

Overall, Fiori transformed the setting with Benjamin Moore’s soft chamois on the walls and muted colors such as plum and cornflower on the pillows and beyond.

“We got the best of both worlds,” says the homeowner. “Something beautiful and something that reminds me of family. And I love it.”

The soft geometric pattern of this open-arm fauteuil chair with plum pillow is a modern twist, while Japanese block prints on the wall evoke cherished family memories.

Leather-wrapped brass on the husband’s dresser is a stylish way to draw interest while preserving the room’s serenity. A custom bench contrasts soft chenille with maple legs, also contributing to the bedroom’s laid-back vibe.

GO WHERE THE PROS GO

To make a home look its best, interior designers know just where to shop. Here are their favorite spots. By Haley Longman

When it comes to home décor shops in Morris and Essex counties, there’s almost an embarrassment of riches. Which store does one choose—and to buy what? In the paragraphs below, answering those questions suddenly gets easier, thanks to the wisdom gained through professional experience by six of the area’s top interior designers. They happily complied when Morris & Essex Health & Life asked them to share tips, keyed to the purchase you’re considering.

OUR INTERIOR DESIGNERS

Sarah Elizabeth, Sarah Elizabeth Design, Upper Montclair

Jean Herron, Jean Herron Design, Morristown

Megan Pisano, Megan Pisano Design, Chatham

Diana Weinstein, Diana Weinstein Interior Design, Glen Ridge

Noel Gatts, Beam & Bloom, Bloomfield

Lynn M. Masiello, LM Interior Design, Verona

If you’re looking for…furniture:

There’s no shame in shopping at some of the big chain stores for furniture, our designers say. Diana Weinstein loves Crate & Barrel for “great-looking, current styles,” many of which are in stock when you need them. Megan Pisano loves both Bassett in Livingston and Arhaus in Short Hills; each, she says, has “a wide variety of styles for beds, dressers and nightstands; the quality is great, the service is spot-on and the pricing A+.” Prefer to shop the independents? Take Noel Gatts’s recommendation and scour Urban Natural Home in Bloomfield, a hidden gem with an eco-conscious showroom stocked with top-notch furniture and custom upholstery for the living room, dining room and bedroom. “It’s an intimate and manageable space,” says Gatts, “with plenty of room to view the selections.” And Sarah Elizabeth loves Ampersand Interiors in Upper Montclair, which sells “practical and stylish furniture, some with easy-to-open extensions for family-friendly dinners and entertaining.”

If you’re looking for… window treatments:

Window Works in Livingston is a favorite of two of our experts. “It’s a great resource for blinds, shades and upholstered window treatments,” says Pisano; Gatts adds that the folks there “pay close attention to quality, collaborate beautifully with designers, offer their own design assistance and maintain a lovely showroom.” Elizabeth does flat Roman shades for many different rooms for many of her clients, and her go-to for this is Alex Upholstery in Verona. “Romans create warmth and look more finished than traditional roller shades or blinds,” she notes.

Weinstein says chains such as Home Depot can be a great resource for budget-friendly window treatments. “I often recommend white wood blinds from Home Depot,” she says. “This is a great option if custom shutters are out of the budget.”

If you’re looking for…. fixtures and hardware:

Lynn Masiello of LM Interior Design is a loyal customer (and former employee) of Hardware Designs in Fairfield, where she purchases all of her plumbing and hardware products. “The knowledge their quality salespeople have to offer is invaluable and the generosity with which they share it is wonderful and touching,” she declares. She gets no argument from Gatts, who says, “Hardware Designs offers the latest in finishes, style, function and design, and its staff is delightful.” Masiello also loves Wayne Tile in Rockaway for its vast selection and friendly employees. Weinstein’s favorite? General Plumbing Supply, with locations in Dover and Morris Plains and all across the Garden State; it boasts topnotch employees who make plumbing less confusing. She and Pisano are also fans of Frank Webb Home in Madison. “It’s locally owned and operated and has an old-school vibe,” says Pisano. “They know their product inside and out!” Jean Herron, a kitchen and bath specialist, also loves Moe’s Distributors in Morristown, “the best cabinet and door hardware store I have ever been in. Multiple rooms of samples from a staggering array of companies that are seriously hard to pull yourself away from!”

HOME DESIGN

If you’re looking for…accessories:

Chain stores such as Home Goods can be good for decor, but it can be hit-or-miss— our designers agree that it may be hard to find two matching items in stock here. So shopping at local boutiques is your best bet when it comes to accessories. Elizabeth has two go-tos in this category: Ampersand Interiors in Upper Montclair for “unique hand-made ceramics, throws, throw pillows and gifts,” she says, and Howell Montclair up the block, which offers “unique, globally sourced items like colorful wool blankets, plant- and floral-inspired serving trays and beautifully unique glassware.” Pisano shops at Quartet in Chatham for fun, unique pieces, and loves The Pink Pear in Madison for tableware. And don’t forget the lighting! Pisano is a fan of Capitol Lighting in East Hanover for “recessed, architectural, lamps, pendants and chandeliers,” while Weinstein shops at both West Essex Lighting in West Caldwell and Luxe Light Studio in Fairfield. “They’re both great showrooms and great resources for homeowners designing their own spaces,” she says.

If you’re looking for…rugs.

It’s pretty much unanimous; our pros love J&S Designer Flooring in Morristown for rugs and carpets. Pisano credits their sales team, Weinstein shops here for wall-towall carpets and cut-and-bind rugs and Gatts appreciates the store’s varied price points. Her advice: “Come to your appointment with other swatches or paint samples from your space to view with their merchandise.” Elizabeth loves J&S Flooring too, as well as Rug Company in Fairfield. Staffers there “go the extra mile to try to source exactly what you are looking for if they don’t have it in their showroom,” she says. “Likewise with meeting your budgetary needs.” Pisano’s other favorite is Cramers Carpet One Floor & Home in Madison, and she knows a guy. “Ask for Dovlyn! The store has many wall-to-wall carpets and runners, all of which can be customized.”

IT’S STILL A KICK

At first she wondered if being a Rockette would really rock. Seventeen years in, she loves it. By Donna Rolando

You can’t guarantee fresh-fallen snow or that special something under the tree, but you can count on the Radio City Rockettes to sky-highkick it when the curtain rises on the 2022 Christmas Spectacular That kick is as iconic as the Rockettes, and they’ve been Radio City Music Hall’s sweethearts since the 1930s.

So seamless is their precise movement in unison, it hides all the grueling hours of practice and the technical skill and discipline that make it possible for the 36 individual dancers in each show to move as one. These masters of coordination make it all look easy.

And that’s what almost deterred Danelle Morgan, a 37-year-old Morristown resident, from trying out for the Rockettes nearly 20 years ago. Although she admired her dance teacher (who happened to be a Rockette), Morgan early on wanted more of a challenge—or so she thought. Radio City “wasn’t necessarily on my radar as far as what I wanted to do with my career,” says Morgan, a Highland Park native who dreamed of concert dance.

The illusion of simplicity persisted until the Rockettes did a workshop at The Ailey School–Fordham University in New York City, where Morgan was pursuing her bachelor of fine arts degree. Then she came to realize how much skill it really took to be a Rockette. Not only are the kicks “super difficult to execute,” she explains, but the show itself “requires a lot of stamina, focus and teamwork.” Multiply it all by four—the shows each dancer may perform daily—and then factor in “very intense” rehearsals. Whew!

“We do it with a smile but—it’s really difficult,” she says. “It’s a big challenge for me, and I fell in love with the challenge.” She’s quick to add that the job lets her “play dressup” and perform in one of the greatest shows of all time.

After that pivotal workshop, it was with eyes wide open that Morgan found herself auditioning for the Rockettes. The third time was a charm, and Morgan joined the lineup in 2005. What kept her trying was the encouragement she received.

“In most auditions, you’re a number and a pin. But what I loved about this audition was that they called us by name,” she says. “And every time I learned a little more, made it a little further in the audition,” she says.

Today, with the Rockettes’ emphasis on diversity through Rockettes Conservatory, there are even more opportunities for dancers. And the 5-foot-6 minimum height requirement has been relaxed by an inch, as Morgan explains, so the troupe doesn’t miss out on many talented, though slightly shorter, dancers.

Like every Rockette, Morgan must audition annually. But she takes it in stride. “What I love about being a Rockette is that here I am, 17 years in, and I will be sharing the stage with someone who is in her first year,” she says. “It brings me back to those first memories and the excitement.”

Morgan has come a long way since she donned her first dance shoes at age 4. As a Rockette she’s performed for President Barack Obama, TV personality Oprah Winfrey and other giants, and in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. As with any live performance, there is always the unexpected. And yes, Morgan has danced with a smile through her share of surprises, both bad and wonderful.

“With live theater,” she explains, “things are bound to go wrong. Whether it’s a choreographic mistake, earrings flying off, shoes breaking—it’s honestly pretty hard for the audience to notice since we handle it so seamlessly. Our goal is truly to give every audience the best show we can

possibly give them.”

Her most thrilling moment on stage came after the fourth show in an exhausting day when she detected a super loud “YEAH!” coming from the audience after “Sleigh Ride,” the Christmas Spectacular’s first scene, and she quickly identified the source. “Now, the only person I know who screams ‘YEAH!’ at the end of every scene is my dad,” she says. “I look into the audience as we begin the exit for ‘Sleigh Ride’ and who do I see? Mom and Dad in the front row! That show of love and support was just so incredibly special.”

This season she keeps striving to do her best, not only as dance captain and assistant choreographer, but as a “swing”—someone who’s able to fill in for any dancer on a moment’s notice. The show must go on, after all.

Charts guide every dancer’s path, enabling swings to leap into action when they’re needed. “It’s a really cool puzzle,” Morgan says. Through it all, she’s discovered the importance of “balance, where we really take care of our bodies” with Pilates and crosstraining to withstand the show’s physical demands, she explains.

For Morgan, the magic of performing makes the effort worthwhile. “There’s nothing like getting a standing ovation or hearing the orchestra playing at the start of a show—and then the curtain goes up.”

When the curtain has come down again and it’s just Morgan, her husband and Lula, (their spaniel), she finds herself discovering life in Morristown, where they just bought a house. “It suited our lifestyles,” she says of the town. (Of course she especially likes the train to NYC.)

The Rockettes will kick it up for the Christmas Spectacular from Nov. 18 through Jan. 2, with tickets now on sale.

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GET SAUCY!

Nothing says fall comfort food like chicken, pork or steak smothered in a delicious sauce. These three entrées will wow— and satisfy—the foodies in your life.

PORK CHOPS IN CREAMY MUSHROOM SAUCE

Yields 4 servings

INGREDIENTS:

n ▢4 boneless pork chops, about ½-inch thick n ▢¾ tsp. salt, or to taste n ▢¼ tsp. black pepper, or to taste n ▢½ tsp. paprika, or to taste n ▢3 Tbs. unsalted butter, divided n ▢2 tsp. olive oil n ▢8 oz. mushrooms (white or brown), sliced n ▢½ medium onion, finely chopped n ▢2 garlic cloves, minced n ▢1 Tbs. flour n ▢1 tsp. hot sauce n ▢1½ cups chicken broth n ¹/³ cup heavy cream n ▢1 Tbs. parsley, optional garnish

DIRECTIONS:

Season pork chops with salt, pepper and paprika. Heat 1 Tbs. butter and 2 tsp. oil in a large pan over medium/ high heat. Once hot, sear chops 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove pork chops and cover to keep warm.

In the same pan, add 1 Tbs. butter and sliced mushrooms. Cook 2 minutes over medium heat, or until lightly golden.

Add 1 Tbs. butter and onions. Lightly season with salt and pepper. Cook 3-4 minutes, until onions are tender.

Add minced garlic and sauté 30 seconds, stirring frequently. Add flour and stir vigorously for 30 seconds.

Add the chicken broth, hot sauce, whipping cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer 2 minutes, or until cream begins to thicken. Add pork chops back to the skillet and cover with the mushroom sauce.

Reduce heat to low and simmer 5-8 minutes, allowing the pork chops to become tender and the flavors of the mushroom sauce to penetrate into the pork chops. Garnish if desired and serve.

STEAK AU POIVRE

Yields 4 servings

INGREDIENTS:

n ▢1 tenderloin steaks, 6-8 oz. each and no more than ½ inch thick

n ▢kosher salt n ▢2 Tbs. whole peppercorns n ▢1 Tbs. unsalted butter n ▢1 tsp. olive oil n ¹/³ cup cognac, plus 1 tsp. n ▢1 cup heavy cream

DIRECTIONS:

Remove the steaks from the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes and up to 1 hour prior to cooking. Sprinkle all sides with salt.

Coarsely crush the peppercorns with a mortar and pestle, the bottom of a cast iron skillet, or using a mallet and pie pan. Spread the peppercorns evenly onto a plate. Press the fillets, on both sides, into the pepper until it coats the surface. Set aside.

In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and olive oil. As soon as the butter and oil begin to turn golden and smoke, gently place the steaks in the pan. For medium-rare, cook for 4 minutes on each side. Once done, remove the steaks to a plate, tent with foil and set aside. Pour off the excess fat but do not wipe or scrape the pan clean.

Off of the heat, add cognac to the pan and carefully ignite the alcohol with a long match or firestick. Gently shake pan until the flames die. Return the pan to medium heat and add the cream. Bring the mixture to a boil and whisk until the sauce coats the back of a spoon, approximately 5 to 6 minutes. Add the teaspoon of cognac and season, to taste, with salt. Add the steaks back to the pan, spoon the sauce over, and serve.

This is a great recipe that comes together quickly on those busy fall nights and uses minimal ingredients that you probably have on hand. Ideally, if your budget allows, grassfed, grass-finished steak tenderloin is your cut of choice. It has many health benefits including high content of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A and E.”

— Kamila Veljkovic, owner and clinical nutritionist, Complete Health for Women, Boonton

CHICKEN BRAISED WITH APPLES, CIDER AND MUSTARD

Yields 4-6 servings

INGREDIENTS:

n ▢4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves or thighs n ▢1 Tbs. olive oil n ▢1 firm apple such as Braeburn, cored, halved and cut into half-inch slices n ▢1 cup apple cider n ▢1 large onion, thinly sliced n ▢1 garlic clove, minced n ▢1 tsp. dried thyme leaves n ▢½ tsp. salt n ▢2 Tbs. Dijon mustard

DIRECTIONS:

Place each chicken-breast half between 2 sheets of wax paper and pound with a meat mallet until about ¾-inch thick.

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and saute the chicken until golden, about 3 minutes per side.

Add the apple slices, apple cider, onion, garlic, thyme, and salt. Cover and simmer 6 to 8 minutes or until the chicken is fork-tender.

Remove the chicken, apple slices, and onion to a serving platter and keep warm.

Bring the sauce to a boil for about 5 minutes or until slightly reduced.

Whisk in the mustard. Pour the sauce over the chicken and serve.

Apple cider vinegar is an incredibly versatile pantry ingredient that you can use in almost every aspect of cooking. Adding apple cider vinegar to your recipes can help to combat the blood sugar spikes that can come from a meal high in sugar or carbohydrates. It can also help improve gut health and balance blood sugar levels while adding lowcalorie flavor.”

Kamila Veljkovic, owner and clinical nutritionist, Complete Health for Women, Boonton

Mighty, Tiny Teff

Will this little-known, gluten-free seed find a place on your plate?

Teff may be the world’s oldest domesticated crop you’ve never heard of. Known scientifically as Eragrostis tef, it’s a cereal indigenous to Ethiopia and Eritrea. The seeds of the annual grass plant, about the size of a chia seed, are a nutritional staple in East Africa. Nowadays, the brown/red and ivory varieties of teff are cultivated in India, Australia and the U.S. as well. In our country, this grain is grown in Idaho, Oregon and Nevada.

Historians believe the crop originated 6,000 years ago in the Horn of Africa. The name ar rives from the Amharic-language word “teffa,” which means lost. That’s probably because once you drop one of these tiny seeds, it’s likely gone for good.

Partly thanks to its use in making the pancakelike flatbread known as injera, teff provides twothirds of Ethiopian’s daily protein intake. In 2006, the grain was banned for exportation by the Ethio pian government, which feared shortages such as those experienced in South American countries when there was a run on quinoa. The ban was partially lifted in 2015, and Ethiopian teff is now widely available. Delicious, versatile and packed with nutrition, this ancient grain seems to be a food with a future.

POWER UP

Teff is completely gluten-free, mak ing it a great

option for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. A half-cup serving of uncooked teff is loaded with 13 grams of protein, as opposed to the 5 grams in a similar serving of oats. And unlike most grains, teff is a super calcium source, with 159 milligrams per half cup. (That’s more than a glass of whole milk.) That serving also provides 42.3 percent of our daily value of mag nesium, a mineral that helps the heart, bones, muscles and nerves to run smoothly. Add to that more than 30 percent of our needed zinc and 20 to 30 percent of the fiber we require, making teff a powerhouse for gut microbiome health.

Runners, listen closely: Teff is the perfect prerace porridge. It’s rich in iron, which is beneficial not just for your overall health but for athletic performance. In just six weeks, female runners suffering from an iron deficiency were able to raise their iron levels significantly by incorporating teff into their diets. And because it’s a whole grain, teff provides a sustained release of energy. It’s no wonder Ethiopia boasts so many successful longdistance runners. In fact, Olympic gold medalist

Haile Gebrselassie claims teff is the secret to his impressive career.

Who would’ve thought that this minute seed could pack such a nutritional punch?

BUY/STORE/SERVE

Most natural-food stores and well-stocked gro cers have teff on hand. Uncooked teff can last for up to two years in a cool, dry place. As a whole grain, it can be used to make porridge. Because the seeds are so minuscule compared to oats, the cooking time is cut in half. Teff has a nutty flavor with a molasses kick, a little sweeter than the monotony of oatmeal.

You can blend the grain to make teff flour, the main ingredient in pillowy injera. Making injera is a four-day fermentation process—it’s ultimately worth it, but there are tons of other uses for teff while you wait. When it comes to baking, the flour is as versatile as any other: bread, biscuits, muf fins, you name it. If you’re feeling adventurous, go online to find recipes for teff pastry crust, banana teff cake or teff walnut cake. You can also throw in teff as a thickener for sauces or stews.

Want a change-up? Try replacing a portion of any recipe’s called-for flour with teff flour. This mix-and-match will get your gluten down and give the recipe a lighter finish.

—Emma Cameron

DID YOU KNOW? Teff is so tiny that it would take 150 seeds to equal the size of one grain of wheat.

Representation

FACES OF

Sandra

a partner in Fox Rothschild’s Morristown

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.

FACES OF

& MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY

RIVERSIDE ORAL SURGERY

Kinderkamack Rd.,

Grand Ave.,

Rd.,

RIVERSIDE ORAL SURGERY, NEW JERSEY’S PREMIER ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY GROUP, owned and operated by its surgeons, was founded 15 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. With multiple board-certified and fellowship-trained surgeons, and a team equally qualified and dedicated to the patient experience, 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, 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 “Bloody Tooth Guy,” explains the success of the group, “I founded this practice to provide care ‘The Riverside Way,’ where every patient we are privileged to serve is assured our utmost attention, uncompromised care, and a predictably exceptional outcome.”

FACE OF FAMILY LAW

WITH 100 YEARS OF COMBINED EXPERIENCE, the law firm of Laufer, Dalena, Jensen, Bradley & Doran has had a long prominent presence in Morris County. A firm committed to family law and related matters, its lawyers handle divorce, custody, relocation, domestic violence, pre-nuptial agreements and domestic partnership disputes. The firm is also recognized for its mediation, arbitration and collaborative law alternative dispute resolution options. Its attorneys are actively involved with the Morris County Bar Association where William Laufer has served as a past President and partners Christine Dalena, James Jensen, Terryann Bradley and Jane Ellen Doran are members. The firm’s lawyers are court-approved economic mediators and have a reputation for dealing aggressively and successfully with family law issues. William Laufer, Terryann Bradley, Christine Dalena, James Jensen and Jane Ellen Doran have consistently been voted to the NJ Super Lawyers* List. Christine Dalena is a trained collaborative law attorney. The offices are conveniently located directly across from the Morris County Courthouse.n*, Peter Bracuti*, Michelle Benedek*, Mario Delmonaco, Gregory Behringer**, Alexis Laufer**and Alyssa Clemente** are active members. The firm’s lawyers are court-approved economic mediators and have a reputation for dealing aggressively and successfully with family law issues. William Laufer, Terryann Bradley, Christine Dalena, James Jensen and Jane Ellen Doran have consistently been voted to the NJ Super Lawyers* List. Christine Dalena is a trained collaborative law attorney. The offices are conveniently located directly across from the Morris County Courthouse.

Not featured in photo Jessica Cascio, Esq, Deanna Digori, Esqu, Hailey Vogt, Esq

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.

CALDWELL FORTE 182 Bloomfield Ave. 973.403.9411 fortepizzeria.com

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

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

CHATHAM RESTAURANT SERENADE 6 Roosevelt Ave. 973.701.0303 restaurantserenade.com

SCALINI FEDELI 63 Main St. 973.701.9200 scalinifedeli.com

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

DENVILLE

THE PASTA SHOP 13 First Ave. 973.253.4143 thepastashopdenville.com

DOVER

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

PAVINCI ITALIAN GRILL 453 River Styx Rd. 973.770.4300 pavinci.com

THE WINDLASS 45 Nolans Pt. Park Rd. 973.663.3190 thewindlass.com

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

BOONTON BOONTON SUSHI HOUSE 701 Main St. 973.394.8811 sushiboonton.com

ROMA PIZZERIA 709 Main St. 973.335.1614 romapizzaofboonton.com

THAI PING 811 Main Ave. 973.335.9541 thaiping.com

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

EAST HANOVER

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

MR. CHU 44 Rte. 10 W. 973.887.7555

PENANG 200 Rte. 10 W. #8 973.887.6989 penangcuisine.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

ANTHONY FRANCOS 60 Beaverbrook Rd. 973.696.0708 anthonyfrancospizza.com

202 ITALIAN BISTRO, LINCOLN PARK

SUNSET PUB & GRILL 425 Beaverbrook Rd. 973.694.8700 sunsetpubandgrill.com

LIVINGSTON

LITHOS 405 Eisenhower Pkwy. 973.758.1111 lithosgreekrestaurant.com

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

LONG VALLEY CHESAPEAKE TAVERN 1 W. Mill Rd. 908.867.7102 chesapeaketavernnj.com

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

MADISON BEGUM PALACE 300 Main St. 973.660.9100 begumindiancuisine.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 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

MILLBURN BASILICO 324 Millburn Ave. 973.379.7020 basilicomillburn.com

CAFÉ MONET 309 Millburn Ave. 973.376.8555 cafemonet.info

CARA MIA 194 Essex St. 973.379.8989 caramiamillburn.com

MOONSHINE 55 Main St. 973.218.6042 moonshinesupperclub.com

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

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

FASCINO 331 Bloomfield Ave. 973.233.0350 fascinorestaurant.com

FAUBOURG RESTAURANT AND BAR 544 Bloomfield Ave. 973.542.7700 faubourgmontclair.com

HALCYON 114 Walnut St. 973.744.4450 halcyonbrasserie.com

MESOB 515 Bloomfield Ave. 973.655.9000 mesobrestaurant.com

RAYMOND’S 28 Church St. 973.744.9263 raymondsnj.com

SAMBA MONTCLAIR 7 Park St. 973.744.6764 montclairsamba.com

TOAST 700 Bloomfield Ave. 973.509.8099 toastmontclair.com

ZEUGMA GRILL 44 S. Park St. 973.744.0074 zeugmagrill.com

MONTVILLE COLUMBIA INN 29 Rte. 202 973.263.1300 thecolumbiainn.com

LOCANDA VECCHIA 167 Rte. 202 973.541.1234 locandavecchia.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

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

UP THAI 981 Tabor Rd. 973.998.8536 upthainj.com

MORRISTOWN END OF ELM 140 Morris St. 973.998.4534 endofelm.com

FIG & LLILY GARDEN 2 Cattano Ave. 973.539.3999 figandlilygarden.com

JOCKEY HOLLOW BAR & KITCHEN 110 South St. 973.644.3180 jockeyhollowbarandkitchen. com

MALAY 147 Morris St. 973.538.3322 malaymorristown.com

MARJAN FINE PERSIAN GRILL 84 Speedwell Ave. 973.889.8884 marjanpersiangrill.com

REVOLUTION 9 South St. 973.455.0033 revolutionmorristown.com

ROOTS STEAKHOUSE 40 W. Park Pl. 973.326.1800 rootssteakhouse.com

1776 BY DAVID BURKE 67 E. Park Pl. 973.829.1776 1776bydb.com

SOUTH+PINE 90 South St. 862.260.9700 southandpine.com

NEWARK

ADEGA GRILL 130 Ferry St. 973.589.8830 adegagrill.com

CASA VASCA 141 Elm St. 973.465.1350 casavasca.net

FORNOS OF SPAIN 47 Ferry St. 973.589.4767 fornosrestaurant.com

IBERIA TAVERN & RESTAURANT 80-84 Ferry St. 973.344.7603 iberiarestaurants.com

MOMPOU TAPAS BAR & RESTAURANT 77 Ferry St. 973.578.8114 mompoutapas.com

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

SOL-MAR RESTAURANT 267 Ferry St. 973.344.3041 solmar-restaurant.com

NUTLEY MEAL 433 Kingsland St. 973.542.8522 mealnj.com

QUEEN MARGHERITA 246 Washington Ave. 973.662.0007 queenmargherita.us

ORANGE

BELLA ITALIA 535 Central Ave. 973.676.4300 bellaitaliarestaurantnj.com

HAT CITY KITCHEN 459 Valley St. 862.704.6248 hatcitynj.com

PARSIPPANY

CAPITAL GRILLE 10 Dryden Way 973.889.8622 thecapitalgrille.com

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

ECCOLA 1082 Rte. 46 973.334.8211 eccolarestaurant.com

GOURMET CAFE 136 Baldwin Rd. 973.316.0088 gourmetcafenj.com

MARAKESH RESTAURANT 321 Rte. 46 973.808.0062 marakesh.com

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

SHAN SHAN NOODLES 333 Rte. 46 973.287.7399 shanshannoodles.com

PEQUANNOCK

BARDI’S BAR & GRILL 149 Newark Pompton Tpke. 973.694.1058 bardisgrill.com

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

ADEGA GRILL, NEWARK

Photos courtesy of 202 Italian Bistro, Adega Grill, Il Capriccio

PINE BROOK BONEFISH GRILL 28 Rte. 46 973.227.2443 bonefishgrill.com

CHINA PAVILION 263 Changebridge Rd. 973.227.1006

DON PEPE STEAKHOUSE 58 Rte. 46 W. 973.808.5533 donpepesteakhouse.com

POMPTON PLAINS

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

TAVERN 5 710 Newark Pompton Tpke. 973.835.1426 tavern5.com

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

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

KABAB PARADISE 124 Rte. 10 973.453.0202 kababparadise.com

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

NOCHES DE COLOMBIA 140 Rte. 10 973.620.9135 nochesdecolombiarandolph.com

RANDOLPH DINER BAR & GRILL 517 Rte. 10 973.328.2400 therandolphdiner.com

ROSIE’S TRATTORIA 1181 Sussex Tpke. 973.895.3434 rosiestrattoria.com

SUBURBAN BAR & KITCHEN 500 Rte. 10 W. 973.891.1776 sbknj.com

VERONA RESTAURANT 1171 Sussex Tpke. 973.895.8888 veronarestaurant.com

RIVERDALE CONEY ISLAND PIZZA 40 Hamburg Tpke. 973.476.9223 coneyislandwoodfired pizza.com

ROCKAWAY BRICK 46 68 Rte. 46 973.625.4900 brick46.com

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

THAI NAM PHET 296 Rte. 46 973.627.8400 thainamphet.com

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

SHORT HILLS

BENIHANA 840 Morris Tpke. 973.467.9550 benihana.com

BOCCONE SOUTH 519 Millburn Ave. 973.378.9222 bocconeristorante.com

THE DINING ROOM 41 JFK Pkwy. 973.912.4756

ENZZO’S TRATTORIA 514 Millburn Ave. 973.379.7111 enzzos.com

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

900 DEGREES 626 Main Rd. 973.335.2555 900degreespizza.com

RAILS STEAKHOUSE 10 Whitehall Rd. 973.335.0006 railssteakhouse.com

ON THE TOWN }

IL CAPRICCIO IN WHIPPANY

UPPER MONTCLAIR DAIKICHI 608 Valley Rd. 973.744.2954 daikichimontclair.net

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

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

WEST ORANGE

CHIT CHAT DINER 410 Eagle Rock Ave. 973.736.1989 chitchatdiner.com

HIGHLAWN PAVILION

1 Crest Dr. 973.731.3463 highlawn.com

KIM’S SUSHI 456 Eagle Rock Ave. 973.669.2800 kimssushinj.com

THE MANOR RESTAURANT 111 Prospect Ave. 973.731.2360 themanorrestaurant.com

MCLOONE’S BOATHOUSE 9 Cherry Ln. 862.252.7108 mcloonesboathouse.com

NICHOLAS ANTHONY’S FAMILY KITCHEN 450 Main St. 862.520.1252 nicholasanthonys.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

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

TRATTORIA TOSCANA 554 Rte. 10 973.386.0303 trattoriatoscana

Be There

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

OCT. 13

Don’t miss legendary funnyman JAY LENO as he takes the stage at the Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown. The former Tonight Show host will perform a stand-up routine beginning at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $100. To learn more, go to mayoarts.org.

OCT. 15

Got ghost questions? Amy Bruni is here to enlighten. The paranormal investigator, author and ghost hunter hosts Life with the AFTERLIFE: A SUPERNATURAL EVENING WITH GHOST

Performing Morristown the afterlife. 8 p.m., and tickets start at $29. seats now and find out more at mayoarts.org.

OCT. 16

Lace up those running shoes and put on a costume because it’s time for the HARDING HALLOWEEN HALF MARATHON The race—which starts finishes at Ginty Field in Morris Township—kicks off at 9 a.m. and the Harding PBA. If you’re not running 13.1 miles but still want participate in the relay available $95 for the $49 for the Register now at superheroracing.com.

time to shine YOUR CANINE in Branch Dog event features and costume

Registration is at 9:30 a.m., and the parade kicks off at 10 a.m. Entry is free, and prizes for best dressed pup will be awarded. Learn more at essexcountyparks.org.

OCT. 23

Make your way to downtown Millburn for the MILLBURNSHORT HILLS STREET FAIR & CRAFT SHOW The event takes place on Main Street and will feature art vendors, arts and crafts, live music, food and more fun for the whole family. Admission is free. For more, go to streetfairs.org.

OCT. 23

The “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul,” MARY J. BLIGE, is coming to the Prudential Center in Newark for her Good Morning Gorgeous Tour. Blige will be joined by music sensations Ella Mai and Queen Naija. Doors open at 6 p.m., and tickets start at $70. For more info, to prucenter.com.

OCT. 26

Get your hands dirty at the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge GARDENKEEPER

9 to 11 a.m., volunteers their groundskeeping around the Helen Visitor Center in Basking Tools are provided; spirit—and did we? friendsofgreatswamp.org

28 or Treat coming back second Nutley. monster to trunk from at the lot of the Post 493 hall. by VFW Garden Club vfw493.org.

29 & 30 things that bump in the night are trying their hands musical theater at FAMILY FRIGHT NIGHT in Morristown. At 7 p.m. 29th and 2 p.m. the 30th, come see perform spooky songs Burgdorff Theater for the Performing Arts. Tickets are $10. Visit thestrollers.org for more info.

NOV. 13

Enjoy night of music with the BAROQUE ORCHESTRA OF NEW JERSEY their season opening

The show starts Dolan Hall at Elizabeth University in and will feature a Mozart pieces conducted The cost is $40; $5 learn more about baroqueorchestra.org.

to restrictions, subject to changes. encouraged observe guidelines.

Gatherings

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

AMERICAN SOCIETY OF INTERIOR DESIGNERS

BOYS SCOUTS TROOP 1

Members from Mendham’s Troop 1 enjoyed a seven-day journey at the Florida National High Adventure Sea Base aboard the 85-foot Schooner Jolly II River. The scouts had the opportunity to snorkel, visit the Turtle Hospital and tour the town of Key West. 1 Front row, from left: 1st Mate Daniella, Chris Harner, TJ Shaw, Ian Braun, Joe Carangelo, Mitchell Wood, Toby Dickens, Ryan Smith, Max Harner; back row, from left: Captain Elijah, 1st Mate Nick, Jack Kiefer, Benjie Lanier, Jack Olynik, Ian Shaw, Sam Lagana, Ben Lanier, David Braun, Brian Janacek, Brett Kiefer. Furthest back: Captain Mary Brett

Columbia Bank sponsored this summer’s 2022 Historically Black College or University (HBCU) Scholarship Ride, an annual 216-mile bike ride from Newark to Howard University in Washington, D.C. The program was instituted to raise scholarship money awarded to high school graduates in Newark who will attend an HBCU. 5 Cyclists gear up for 2022 HBCU Scholarship Ride.

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

Vacation Bible School at Grace Church in Madison received a helping hand this summer from residents Mary and Kathryn McManus. The two donated 50 lunch boxes that were distributed to children for use throughout the 2022–23 school year. 2 Mary and Kathryn McManus

FAMILY PROMISE OF MORRIS COUNTY

Morristown-based Artech created and donated 21 care kits for the guests at Family Promise’s drop-in resource center. The organization supports families and individuals experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity. 6 Artech staff presents its care kits.

MORRIS MUSEUM

To celebrate and honor the Spark!Lab ambassadors’ amazing work, the Morris Museum held an ice cream social. The ambassadors volunteered their time, talent and expertise to help make the Spark!Lab such a success.

Spark!Lab at the Morris Museum is made possible by leadership support from BASF Science Education in North America.

7 Spark!Lab ambassadors

The New Jersey Chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) held its annual Design Excellence Awards at the Galloping Hills Golf Course in Kenilworth. The awards honor designers in various categories, from residential single space to hotel and restaurant. 3 George Oliphant, Karla Trincanello 4 Tammy Bolden, Tracey Stephens

COLUMBIA BANK

Boys Scouts Troop

Vacation Bible School (2), William Neumann

Photography (3–4), Columbia Bank (5), Family Promise of Morris County (6), Morris Museum (7)

MOMENT

“I own The Lillie House, a private floral and garden studio that is both seasonable and sustainable. This photo was taken in the field at Rowe Farm in Mendham, which is adjacent to The Lillie House and is our large cutting garden/evolving flower farm.

Jack—my field manager and loving pup—and I decided to take an evening off from work to just enjoy the farm and this vast, beautiful sky and rainbow.”

Jillian McFadyen, Mendham

Photo courtesy of Jillian Mcfadyen, Instagram @thelilliehouse