Summer 2016

---

Matters

M

A

G

A

Z

I

N

E

Summer 2016

Summer 1916

Featuring Local People, Places and Things that Matter to Maplewood and South Orange Since 1990

Weichert

south orange

179 Montague place

south orange

natalie farrell 917-514-7541 (cell)

west orange

7 elliot place

south orange

57 union avenue

372 prospect street

Maplewood

8 everitt place

Maplewood

69 oaKland road

Maplewood

Maplewood

23 highland place

carol gilligan 973-951-2772 (cell)

livingston

Serving Maplewood, South Orange and the Surrounding Area.

973-762-3300 • 697 Valley St Located at historic Pierson’s Mill

19 de hart road

rena spangler 973-876-7913 (cell)

natalie farrell 917-514-7541 (cell)

Maplewood office

56 hilton avenue

aMy young 973-868-0768 (cell)

laura KalicK 973-309-5268 (cell)

21 MeadowBrooK place

cynthia grieger 973-868-0018 (cell)

Maplewood

Ken Krasner 201-600-8141 (cell)

edwin nourse 973-986-5578 (cell)

Maplewood

®

rena spangler 973-876-7913 (cell)

terry orr 201-709-5975 (cell)

Maplewood

441 redMond road

Real Estate Mortgages Closing Services Insurance

52 irving avenue

Bernadette sperduto 201-264-8475 (cell)

Let Us Bring You Home. A legacy of Success built on superior service Debbie Rybka-Howard Team Top 1% of all NJReal Estate Agents

“Exquisite overall service. Highly responsive and tremendous knowledge with a caring attitude. Debbie was honest, knowledgeable, extremely helpful and always available. She made the entire house-hunting and purchase a very pleasant process.” - Stan

(908) 591- 4886

2015

FOUR

Give me a call. [email protected] HONESTY-INTEGRITY-EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS

2015 PLATINUM LEVEL

4

Summer 2016

Michael’s Chimney Service LLC

Second Generation Family owned & operated for 20 years.

Chimneys cleaned, repaired, rebuilt, relined. Fireplace & Furnace Sweeps All types of masonry work: Sidewalks, Steps, Patios

10% OFF

any job over $500. Coupon must be presented at time of contract. Expires September 1, 2016

Keep your family and home safe this Summer

Time for Your Chimney Clean Up. Free check of your heating system flue for carbon monoxide leakage.

Free Estimates - Fully Insured 24-hour Emergency Service PSE&G violations corrected.

973-271-0026 www.michaelschimneynj.com License #13VH07937500

contents Summer 2016

Vol. 26 Issue 4

32 34

Photographer Joy Yagid recreated this 1916 shot of local girls. See story on page 38.

In Every Issue

28

8

Heart of the Matters

When in Doubt, Look it Up.

9

Local Matters

Around the towns

9

20

Molly Matters Bathing beauties

36

Summer Features

Resource Matters Sourcing locally

38

26

The work of Alex Higgs

Taking to the beach

16

28

The South Orange Rescue Squad

So many new faces in town thanks to this talented group.

Natural Decline

Final Matters Cover girls

Help is on the Way

16

Matters

M

12

A

G

A

Z

I

N

20

Flea Market Adventure Antiquing with Perch Home

E

Featuring Local People, Places and Things that Matter to Maplewood and South Orange Since 1990

Shopping Matters

Knock, Knock

32

Camp Matters

Places for learning and fun this summer

8

heart of the matter

Summer 2016

Matters

M

A

G

A

Z

I

N

Margherita Sargent, class of 1904 Radclliffe College and, below, her well-loved volumes of the 11th edition of the Encyclopedia Britannica.

E

Featuring Local People, Places and Things that Matter Since 1990

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Karen Duncan MANAGING DIRECTOR Rene Conlon SUPERVISING EDITOR Joanne DiPasquale ADVERTISING SALES Ellen Donker H. Leslie Gilman GRAPHIC ARTISTS Lyman Dally Joy Markel COPY EDITORS Nick Humez Tia Swanson CONTRIBUTORS Chris Gennone, Jamie Meier, Kristen Ryan, Joy Yagid,

Please address all correspondence to:

Visual Impact Advertising, Inc.© 9 Highland Place Maplewood, NJ 07040

973-763-4900

mattersmagazine.com Matters Magazine© is owned and published by Visual Impact Advertising, Inc., 9 Highland Place, Maplewood, NJ 07040. Published monthly, Matters Magazine is free, with editions directly mailed 7 times a year to the residents of Maplewood and South Orange and distributed to businesses and surrounding communities totaling 17,000. Subscriptions are available to non-residents for $30 (U.S.) $40 (Foreign) annually. No part of the publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without written permission from Visual Impact Advertising, Inc. CIRCULATION VERIFIED BY U.S. POSTAL RECEIPTS. READ & RECYLE

When in Doubt, Look it Up

T

The magic of Encyclopedia Britannica’s 11th edition BY KAREN DUNCAN

T he 2010 version of the 15th edition of the  Encyclopedia  Britannica  was the last printed edition. Since then the company  has only  digital content and online distribution. First published as three volumes between 1768 and 1771 in the Scottish capital of  Edinburgh, the Encyclopedia Britannica rapidly grew in size, and by its fourth edition (1801–1810) had expanded to 20 volumes. The 11th edition, published between 1910 and 1911, is considered a landmark of  scholarship and literary style, and remains a collector’s item.  Nate Pedersen of  The Guardian writes, “The 11th edition continues to inspire a religious reverence from its loyal adherents. The siren call of its 28 leatherbound volumes works a subtle magic on antiquarians, historians, booksellers, and scholars around the world.”  In 1904 Margherita Sargent graduated from Radcliffe College and when she had saved enough from her early paychecks she bought the entire 11th edition: all 28 volumes and the index. She’d wanted her own volumes because she had fallen in love with the 9th and 10th  editions that were housed in the college library. And  her  precious, well used, volumes remained with her until her death in 1968. Near the end of her life, she moved to her son’s home and the books lined the shelves of her bedroom. Her grandson, my husband, found himself turning page after page, reading aloud to her and becoming enthralled with the staggering depth of knowledge contained  in the  volumes. It is especially strong in its biographical entries. These delve deeply into the history of men and women prominent in their eras, who have since been largely forgotten.  The 11th is considered exceptionally wellwritten, the first encyclopedia where readability was courted in addition to scholarship. But its durability goes deeper than that. 

Hans Koning, writing in The New Yorker, said of  its appeal, “It was the last great work of the age of reason, the final instance when all human knowledge could be presented with a single point of view.” Four years later, the confidence and optimism that  had produced the 11th would be  lost  forever in the staggering slaughter of the First World War.   Unabashed optimism – and unabashed racism – pervades many entries in the 11th. Despite its occasional ugliness, the reputation of the 11th persists today because of  that time in history. One year after the final volume of the 11th was published the Titanic would strike an iceberg. Three years later, Franz Ferdinand was assassinated. Five years later, a staggering 20 million people would die in the influenza pandemic. And the world would never be the same. And that is why so many believe the  11th edition of the Encyclopedia Britannica will outlast all the others.  Norman Kane, an American rare book dealer only recently parted ways with his 11th  and that decision was a reluctant result of a cross-country move. “The [index] is full of names that resonate in all fields of the arts and sciences. People whose books we sell every day.” Fifteen hundred men and an impressive (by Edwardian standards) 200 women contributed articles to the 11th edition, which combined scholarship and readability in a way no previous encyclopedia ever had – and, arguably, no encyclopedia has been able to repeat.   While the pages of our personal volumes are in perfect condition, the bindings were sadly recovered by Margherita. So the  set has little if any  collectible value. We are keen on donating it to an institution, an individual, or a group who might want it for all within. If you are interested, by all means contact our office.  

localmatters

mattersmagazine.com

9

The

Buzz

M Maplewood Library summer reading program kicks  off   June 27  at 4 p.m. at the Maplewood Memorial Library, 51 Baker Street, Maplewood, with  the  amazing performers from Circle Place,  who do  juggling, gymnastics and more.  The library  invites the community to see  live animals, learn science,  yoga

and dancing,  do  crafts,  hear  stories and participate in other  hands-on activities all summer long. The summer reading program is open to all kids from Maplewood and South Orange – readers and non-readers alike.  Summer reading programs with prizes for teens and adults also will be offered. For details call 973-762-1622 or visit maplewoodlibary.org. 

#1 agent in Maplewood’s Weichert office

Call today! 917-514-7541 [email protected] NatalieFarrell.com

The Maplewood Library summer reading program kicks off June 27  at Maplewood Memorial Library. 

Molly Matters

© Dally/Duncan 2016

973-762-3300 697 Valley Street, Maplewood, NJ 07040

10

localmatters

Summer 2016

This Summer I will be a clown in the circus, dance in the sprinkler, ride a pony in a rodeo, sing songs around the campfire, jump through hoops, view wildlife in my binoculars, play the saxophone, learn to “downward dog”, make ice cream, and send a rocket to the moon.

You can too ...

For further Information, or to sign up contact Paula at [email protected]

Directors: Paula Levin, Bill Deltz and Donna Deltz

The ultimate camping experience for 3-7 year olds.

The Taj Mahal Trio will perform at South Orange Performing Arts Center June 30. 

Looking for COLOR that LASTS? Work with Rutgers Painting to get personal service from quote to final coat, expert home preparation, and high performance paint that lasts for years, all backed by a warranty. SERVING ESSEX, UNION AND MORRIS COUNTIES

(973) 763-1670 www.rutgerspainting.com

Maplewood Village

ANNUAL SIDEWALK SALE Friday July 15 & Saturday, July 16 10am to 6pm

MORE INFORMATION AT WWW.MAPLEWOODVILLAGENJ.COM

Matters

M

A

G

A

Z

Published August 29

I

N

E

mattersmagazine.com

973-763-4900

Summer is the perfect  time  for tennis  and golf   enthusiasts to hone their skills.  The South Orange-Maplewood Adult School  offers tennis  classes  for adults and high school students. Experienced instructor Adam Levitt can help improve a serve, forehand, backhand, volley and overhead. Group classes allow students to meet other players of similar skill so they can continue to play for the rest of the season. Classes start June 28 and meet Tuesday and Thursday evenings until July 14 (rain date: July 19):  beginners from 6-7 p.m. and intermediates from 7-8 p.m. at Cameron Field Tennis Courts, 5 Mead Street, South  Orange. Students must bring a tennis racquet and a can of unopened tennis balls to class. The Adult School offers lessons for adult and high school golfers  as well. Lou Ruina, head golf

professional at the Millburn Golf Course in Short Hills,  is teaching morning classes from 10-11:30 a.m. and evening classes from 6:15-7:45 p.m.  starting July 5 and meeting Tuesdays and Thursdays until July 14 (rain date: July 19). Classes meet at the Township of Millburn Golf Course, 335 White Oak Ridge Road,  Short  Hills;  all  equipment is provided. For details and to register,  please call 973-378-7620 or visit somadultschool.org.  The South Orange Perfor ming Ar ts Center (SOPAC),  One SOPAC Way, South Orange,  will present The Taj Mahal Trio  June 30 at 7:30 p.m.  SOPAC  also will join with the Village of South Orange and the Baird to present South Orange Summer Nights, free outdoor performances and movies on Wednesday nights at Flood’s Hill. Concerts will

The South Orange/Maplewood Coalition on Race will present XRootsFest, a multicultural festival, July 16 at Floods Hill, South Orange.  

localmatters

mattersmagazine.com

11

RENASPANGLER MAKING IT HOME Celebrate Summer in Town! MAPLEWOOD

The Robert J. Miller Oysterfest will be held September 17 at The Woodland, Maplewood. 

be from June 29 to August 3 at 7:30 p.m.  and free movies will be presented  from  August 10  to August 31 at 7:45 p.m.  For details call 973382-1023 or visit sopacnow.org.  South Orange Public Library, 65 Scotland Road, South Orange, will present a Summer Lecture series on four Thursdays at 1 p.m. June 30: Lester Cameron will bring his seeing-eye dog, MJ, and tell stories about their relationship; July 14: Melissa Kopecky, Director of the South Orange Public Library  will discuss Christmas in July: A Crazed Look at Holidays;  July 28: author Naoma Welk will discuss An Armchair Trip Through Historic South Orange;  August 11: Ikuko Acosta, Director of Art Therapy program at New York University, will discuss Art as Healing  Experience.  The Friends of the South Orange Public Library will sponsor The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey’s Next Stage Ensemble, which  will perform  Twelfth Night  July 19 at 7 p.m.  For details call 973-762-0230 or visit sopl.org.    The South Orange/Maplewood Community Coalition on Race will present XRootsFest (pronounced  cross-roots-fest),  a  multicultural festival, July 16 from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. at Floods Hill, Meadowbrook Lane, South Orange.  Musicians, dancers, story-tellers, merchants and food venders rooted in the cultures of four continents will weave together a fabulous afternoon for

people of all ages  to celebrate the diverse roots of our community and region. For details call 973-761-6116 or visit twotowns.org.  The Second Annual  Robert J. Miller Oysterfest  will be held Saturday, September 17 from 1-9 p.m. at The Woodland, 60 Woodland Road, Maplewood. This event is designed to celebrate a special man and raise awareness about melanoma.  Bob Miller was a proud Maplewood resident for more than a decade. He lived near Maplewood Village, where he and his wife, Grace, were raising their four young girls. Miller was a worldclass architect who had just started his own firm in New York City. He passed away in March,  2014 after a two-year battle with melanoma. The Oysterfest will include bands (Brian Kirk and the Jerks will be back by popular demand), food and activities for kids. An exclusive V.I.P. lounge will be available with wine and Irish whiskey samplings in addition to an all-inclusive food and open bar. Free melanoma screenings  also  will  be conducted throughout the day. Special thanks to  the  Township of Maplewood, St. James Gate Publick House and Keller Williams  Mid-Town Direct Realty, who already have signed on as sponsors.. For more sponsorship opportunities and general and V.I.P. tickets, email  [email protected]  or visit  bobmilleroysterfest.com.  continued on page 33

SOUTH ORANGE

Fourth of July

Summer Nights

All Day Memorial Park

Wednesday Nights Flood’s Hill

CELL EMA IL WEB

973-876-7913 [email protected] RenaSpangler.com Maplewood at the Mill · 973-762-3300

“May your thirst for life never run dry”

Summer Brews are here! Lobster rolls daily Super Summer Salads Experience the best of Ireland’s Pub traditions Family Friendly • Good Cheer Raw Bar on Fridays 4–7 p.m.

Check our website for upcoming events

Authentic Irish Cuisine, Irish Coffee, Fine Wines and Irish Whiskey worthy of Celtic Kings

Stop by and check out our NEW SEASONAL MENU!

Join us fireside for lunch and dinner 167 Maplewood Avenue Maplewood Village 973-378-2222 ST. JAMES’S GATE APPAREL AND GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE WEBSITE: www.stjamesgatepublickhouse.com

12

I

Summer 2016

Above: “Analog Ocean”, below left, “Memories of the Enron Empire”, Alex Higgs at Arts Unbound on Baker Street in Maplewood.

NaturalDecline The photography and perseverance of Alex Higgs BY CHRIS GENNONE

I

It was just before dawn  one winter morning  when South Orange photographer Alex Higgs woke up  and said to himself,  “Let’s  go somewhere.” He took the 4:45 a.m. bus to Newark and then a 7 o’clock train to Utica, N.Y. It was 12 degrees with 24-MPH winds as he walked the lonely streets  with his camera, capturing glimpses of an unsuspecting city. It became the first of many excursions that would change his life.   Higgs’  photography is an unrestrained portrayal of the many desolate corners of our country. Abandoned buildings and deserted gas stations crumble amongst the modern infrastructure of industry. Despite the bleakness of barren, cracked sidewalks and driftwood-tangled beaches, there is a savage kind of beauty that can’t be described. The blend of nature and man forces us to reflect on how things used to be. The ghosts that haunt us come to life in Higgs’ photos.   Higgs is no stranger to ghosts. He was just 17 years old when he began having delusions and was diagnosed with Schizoaffective Disorder, a condition that combines symptoms of schizophrenia and bi-polar tendencies. Despite his love for school and the encouragement he felt from others, he was forced to drop out to receive treatments. Suddenly, all of Higgs’ insecurities, dreams and fears had become reality. It was as if every set of eyes and every spoken word were directed toward him. “The subconscious can be a very scary place,” says Higgs.   Family and therapists  debated   if he should continue his education in a more specialized school. But Higgs  wanted to finish at a regular public high school, which gave him more purpose and a sense of diversity among his peers. “I wouldn’t be as well-rounded or successful if I was slowed down. I could’ve lost everything,” Higgs explains. Relying on ambition, he graduated from Deerfield High School, a public school just outside of Chicago. In his first semester at John A. Logan Community College in Carterville, Ill., he achieved a nearly perfect GPA of 3.75. His parents then decided to move back to their former town of West Orange, N.J., and Higgs transferred to the County College of Morris.   Higgs' many years in Boy Scouting – he is an  Eagle  Scout – developed his unshakable bond with nature and spirituality. Higgs found himself not having to rely on the burdens and restraints of society or everyday life. And  then he turned to Buddhism and Taoism  and discovered  a raw sense of freedom and a true  “punk essence.”  Higgs recalls, “I was walking home one night when I asked God to give me an answer; to understand. And less than a minute later, it started pouring rain. It was a complete sensation.” He began to appreciate life as it presented itself and became more comfortable expressing himself.  

mattersmagazine.com

13

Get top Results with

RobeRt NoRthfield Call todaY 973-761-4100

Robert’s Summer Home Collection

425 Hillside Place | South Orange

34 Orchard Road | Maplewood

4 bedrooms, 4 Full & 1 Half Baths Offered at: $879,000 www.425HillsidePlace.com

3 bedrooms, 1 Full & 1 Half Baths Offered at: $399,000 www.34OrchardRoad.com

On average, we sell a home every three days!

361 Scotland Road | South Orange

11 Clinton Avenue | Maplewood

6 bedrooms, 3 Full & 1 Half Baths Offered at: $799,000 www.361ScotlandRd.com

5 bedrooms, 3 Full & 1 Half Baths Offered at: $1,289,000 www.11Clinton.com

Find your home value online at www.MyRealPropertyValue.com

RobeRt NoRthfield

C: 973-489-3417 | o: 973-761-4100 www.RobeRtNoRthfield.Com

14

Summer 2016

The Kinder Gan Preschool Monday-Friday 9Am-2Pm. Flexible 2,3 & 5 day programs Innovative Curriculum For more information or to schedule a tour

Ages 2-5 Summer Camp June 27th - July 28th

Call: 973-763-7455 Or visit our website: www.maplewoodjewishcenter.org

Frumie Bogomilsky– director MS early Childhood– sp.ed

PERCh home a curious little shop in Maplewood, NJ

Elevate your BBQ with our chalkboard menu

mosquito All natural

candles

Melamine tha t looks ceram ic

ecor Summer d

Higgs’ visions are evidenced in his photos;  each one resembles a dream or  beckons  to a past life. Though he cites Andy Warhol and Van Gogh as influences  for their political and surrealist styles, they are  second to the influence of his father, Lee. Known for his gothic-fetish photography and use of infrared film, Higgs’ father helped him “become more mature, exposing him to things many parents wouldn’t.”  Higgs would help build sets for his father’s photo shoots and would soon be learning different artistic approaches, such as using wide-angle lenses.   Higgs became an assistant at the Arts Unbound gallery in Orange, a studio committed to showcasing artists with disabilities. He  did

not come on board as an  artist, but mentioned his photographs o n e d ay   t o s t a f f m e m b e r s. They  immediately embraced his work.  “Alex is paying attention to things that not everyone can see,” says Celene Ryan, Arts Unbound’s Artist  Development  Director. He quickly became a featured artist at the Art Garden CSA, a communityfunded program that also works with disabled artists.    “Arts Unbound is the first of its kind,”  explains Ryan.  “Our mission is to give artists the tools they need and help build their portfolios.” Unlike most commercial galleries,  Arts Unbound has  an artist development program that works one-on-one with artists

mattersmagazine.com

Selling Lifestyles through Real Estate

15

Susan Blodgett

Broker / Sales Associate Cell: 973-214-4636 [email protected]

Virginia "Ginny" Spiegel Sales Associate Cell: 973-219-8865 [email protected]

“Undone Together” by Alex Higgs.

and helps them sell their work at shows  held  every six weeks. For Higgs, it became a comfortable environment that allowed him to be himself and enabled him to continue his work.   A resident of  the Jespy House in South Orange, a community for people with disabilities, Higgs enjoys his independence; he has his  own apartment.  “Many psychiatric organizations are tough and usually have too much or too little supervision,” he says. “It helps with my  well-being.”  It is also the place where he met his girlfriend of three years and fellow artist,  Katherin  Klein. Though Higgs still experiences visions and hears  voices, he credits his relationship, listening to

music and watching television ,as  powerful  antidotes.  Hig gs hopes to g et more involved with the  Jespy  House and teach photography to other clients.   His art has  become his  burning passion. His work is currently featured at Rutgers Medical School, the Arts Unbound gallery and he hopes to see it someday in notable collections and in museums. Higgs has proven not only to himself but to everyone else around him that we can overcome any struggles that come our way if we rely on our spirit. “If I put my mind to it, I can achieve anything.”    Chris Gennone is a freelance writer and musician who is currently attending college and working in Maplewood.  

Property Experts. Neighborhood Enthusiasts. Contact Susan or Ginny at The Blodgett Group 145 Maplewood Avenue, Maplewood

Office: 973-378-8300

©2014 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned and Operated by NRT LLC.

Experience the exciting and rewarding world of fencing in our state-of-theart, climate controlled facility with nationally and internationally recognized coaches and fencers.

Fencing

New Jersey Fencing Alliance

50-58 Burnett Avenue • Maplewood

CLASSES • SUMMER CAMPS • PARTIES

973.763.5728

www.njfencingalliance.com

isthe

Help On Way (For human or animal, fish, fowl or...owl?) BY KRISTEN RYAN

PHOTOS BY PAUL TEMMERMAN

W

mattersmagazine.com

17

SOLUTELY AB

PURE

extra strong

TEAM WE SELL OUR HOMES FOR 3% MORE THAN THE AVERAGE AGENT AND IN LESS THAN HALF THE AVERAGE TIME.* Mark Slade Homes Team o 973.762.5400 | c 917.797.5059

[email protected] | sladeblog.com www.goodhomesforgoodpeople.com

W

When someone’s sick or injured, Melanie Troncone’s South Orange neighbors say, “Call Mel.” When residents with serious injuries or illnesses call 9-1-1 they often get Troncone on their doorsteps. She’s been an EMT for six years and the president of the South Orange Rescue Squad for three. The Rescue Squad has about 45 dedicated volunteers, but Troncone is unique because she doesn’t just help human patients. If the life threat involves a dog or cat, raccoon or rat, Troncone’s going to show up, because she is also the South Orange Animal Control Officer. From time to time Troncone’s two important roles intersect. After she received a call that something was caught in a South Orange home’s pool filter, Troncone arrived to find a tiny screech owl, only about as big as her hand, trapped. It had two escape routes, through the flapper door into the water or out the top, but the trap door was closed. Troncone eased the owl out through the top, wrapped it in a towel and secured it in a cat carrier for transport to The Raptor Trust. When she learned that the rescue facility was closed for the night, she stopped by the Rescue Squad. She knew that the EMTs on duty would want to help.

each office independently owned and operated *as calculated using stats pulled from the GSMLS

Love it Rent it Return it

FittingRoom Gala is a boutique and consignment company that provides designer clothing brands and accessories for customers to purchase or rent.

A new boutique offering the latest fashion trends for Sale, Rent and Consignment. Major brand designers. Come take a look. dress by Gracia

dress by Botanika 325 Valley Street South Orange 201-207-0477 [email protected]

FittingRoomGala.com

Top photo by Dan Cohen, Photo of owl by Kristen Ryan.

They lifted the owl carefully out of the carrier, swaddled it in a pink hospital blanket and held it quietly as its feathers dried. The owl was perking up as Troncone called and found out that The Raptor Trust staff was there after hours and she could bring it in right away. Just a few minutes after the owl had arrived it was whisked away to the rescue facility for evaluation and rehabilitation. For Troncone, who left misery in a corporate cubicle to pursue the animal control job, being an EMT and animal control officer was a natural progression. “My father was an EMT when I was growing up, and I was always the one waiting up for him to get home,” Troncone remembers. “I’d ask him, ‘What was that one about? What did you get to do?’” EMTs don’t do it for the money (all South Orange Rescue Squad members are volunteers) and they don’t do it for the recognition. Troncone gets personal and professional satisfaction when she is able to come to the aid of both people and animals in need. “The animals don’t have a voice,” Troncone explains. “They can’t say, ‘Hey, I’m home alone, can someone come feed me?’ or ‘My owner is really mean. Can someone come help me?’” Once in a while someone stops the squad on the street to say thank you, like when Troncone and a couple of other squad members stopped into The Able Baker to pick up the beautiful cake they made for the dedication of the new rescue squad building. “Someone stopped us and said, ‘You saved my son! Thank you!’ Then another woman said, ‘You helped my son last week!’” Troncone smiled. “When I pass away I want to be remembered for something. I’ve delivered a baby, I’ve had CPR saves and when someone’s terrified to go to the hospital I’ve held their hand, and now I helped rescue an owl.” Kristen Ryan is an EMT on the South Orange Rescue Squad. She was honored and humbled to meet the rescued screech owl.

Internationally acclaimed hairstylist brings his legendary hair design studio to South Orange.

Y

Yoni Kreger opened his first hair salon in Tel Aviv at the age of 21. After he sold that business and moved to New York City, he began working for Manhattan’s largest hair salon chain. Within the year, he took a struggling location and turned it into a bustling hive of inspiration and client satisfaction. As he crisscrossed his way across Manhattan working at various locations, the clients he serviced followed him – an extraordinary feat in a city where convenience is king. He became one of the company’s top educators, teaching assistants and stylists not only the basics and nuances of hair cutting and coloring, but also instilling in them an unshakeable commitment to client satisfaction and indulgence. In 2012, Yoni opened his own salon in SoHo, which remains a success. He began working with noted celebrities and behind the scenes of New York Fashion Week. Having moved his young family to South Orange, Yoni, like many commuters, wanted his business to be part of his new hometown. And so he did just that: Yoni Kreger Salon opened this February in the heart of South Orange in the new Gateway building at 9 West South Orange Ave (which also offers free parking for salon clients in the back). This salon is the culmination of this master stylist’s decades-long career in hairstyling, hair design, and hair care, and is the sole distributor of the Yoni Kreger Silk Road Hair Care line of products. Yoni’s warmth and compassion are as much to credit for his popularity with clients as are his world-class hairstyling skills. He is a master of knowing exactly how to service all hair types, styles, textures, and looks: when it comes to curly hair, however, his true genius shines. From loose, fat curls to the tightest, kinky coils, he has an innate eye for the ways that lines, color, geometry, and texture can be harnessed to complement the unique features and personal beauty of each client. Yoni Kreger’s gift for hair design is much beloved and admired, as attested by the many loyal NYC clients who take the unusual “reverse commute” to South Orange for an appointment in this community gem of a hair studio.

9 West South Orange Avenue, South Orange

973.762.2900

www.YoniKregerSalon.com

20

Summer 2016

Flea Market Adventure

Rainy days are made for antiquing at Perch Home’s Find & Go Seek STORY AND PHOTOS BY KAREN DUNCAN

mattersmagazine.com

21

MAGGIE AXELROD-CALISTER

F

For ten years Maplewood’s Perch Home has been an inspiring local shop brimming with decorating accessories, vintage style, jewelry, housewares and the perfect gift. Owner Michele Bessey has a critical curator’s eye for what is pretty and practical, and her loyal clients enjoy all the items that fill her shelves and adorn the walls. So why would a proprietor of such a popular store share some of her secrets? Because she knows her clients will continue to count on Perch Home for inspiration.  Once a year Bessey offers a truly remarkable experience: the quick-to-fill Find & Go Seek adventure. It begins early. Devotees arrive at the Highland Place shop at 5:45 a.m. A luxury bus takes over much of the tiny street and all guests are ushered a few steps to Palmer’s Sweetery, where we are given a breakfast box with sweet muffins and a cup of coffee. The bakery is buzzing with excitement, but there is no time to talk. The Perch Home staff waves us onto the bus and hand each of us an adorable custom tote bag and a bottle of water. It is just the beginning of a treat-filled day.   Dawn is breaking and  we  are off. Bessey greets  and relaxes us all – a full bus of anxious shoppers, many of whom have never gone antiquing. She goes over the day’s itinerary and offers tips for bargains and negotiating. “Be fair,” she advises, “and scope the back of the fields first and work your way forward.”  Anticipation

South Orange Country Day School

Montessori Education Since 1964

Preschool · Pre-K Kindergarten · Full and Half Day Sessions · Extended Day Hours Available · School Year and Summer Camp Session · Largest Outdoor Play Space

SCHEDULE YOUR TOUR 973.762.6451 Visit socds.com · Email [email protected] 461 Vose Avenue, South Orange, NJ 07052

22

Summer 2016

Left: Perch Home owner Michele Bessey enjoys Pennsylvania homemade sausage and peppers, her annual treat, at Renninger’s Market in Kutztown; and right as she ushers her shoppers through the stalls of a Flea Market. Below: Kitchen a la Mode owner Ben Salmon bargains on a painting. He said he reframed it simply and reused the frame with a mirror.

mattersmagazine.com

“

The community is warm, the teachers are caring and professional, and the general vibe was perfect for our family.

23

Mickey Fried Preschool

of Oheb Shalom Congregation Flexible hours from 8 am - 6 pm!

“

2-5 Year Olds • early drop-off options

Enrichment Program

• get ready for kindergarten

Extended Day

• Cool, fun classes to extend the day!

• Until 6:00 pm • Monday - Friday during the school year • perfect for working families!

Meet Sloane, Our New Director! We are so excited to welcome Sloane Goldstein, who brings over ten years of early education administrative expereince to Mickey Fried Preschool.

Call (973) 762- 7069 to schedule a tour today!

170 Scotland Road, South Orange, NJ (973) 762-7069 http://ohebshalom.org/preschool

We keep you smiling! Every effort is made to ensure the utmost comfort for each patient. Enjoy a modern professional environment and a caring staff. As a former faculty member of Fairleigh Dickinson Dental School, Dr. Wisz now devotes all her time to private practice.

Wendy Wisz, DMD General, Restorative & Cosmetic Dentistry

Above and left: The attendees of Perch Home’s Find & Go Seek perusing the acres of vintage finds.

250 Millburn Avenue | Millburn 973-467-0077 Saturdays and Evenings Available

On site parking | Convenient location

24

Summer 2016

Far right: Maplewood friends Jennifer Hart, Andrea Rosen and Ana Maria Allessi enjoyed a girls day at Find & Go Seek. Right: Some of Jennifer Hart’s purchases.

Above: The friendly and helpful group of Perch Home staff. Right: Unloading the bus full of treasures.

mattersmagazine.com

builds  during the one hour drive to  Renninger’s  Flea & Antique Market in Kutztown, Pennsylvania. Since 1955,  Renninger’s  has been a harbor for antique dealers, collectors, local merchants and farmers from the surrounding areas. The fields are full of trucks and tented tables overflowing with wares for the inspired hunter.  Many of the group come  with lists  of needs.  Some come  just to  browse and pounce on anything that catches their eye. All are ready and, at 8 a.m., when the gates are flung open, our group descends  into the fields,  perusing, picking and bargaining.  Bessey and her team  are a simple text away, either for helpful suggestions or  extra hands to haul back treasures  once the deal is sealed. The bus has  ample storage in its belly for everyone’s finds.  At  noon,  the group meets  under the food tents for a bit of sustenance and to compare notes. There  is  another hour for last purchases and at 1 p.m. we board the bus for our next location,  a short 30-minute drive through the Pennsylvania hills. During the drive,  Bessey’s  team passes  out soft drinks and snacks and describes where we are headed. This spot offers a different spin on the buying process; it’s an enclosed warehouse-sized  building with hundreds of dealers with small cubicles. There is more furniture and antique clothing and our shoppers snatch up good deals immediately.   The bus  belly  is filling up and it  is fun to see what others purchase  and  to  learn  how the  shoppers  intend  to use or repurpose  their finds. After an hour, we reboard the bus and, while enjoying more snacks, travel another 30 minutes to our third and final stop. This antique barn  is tucked into a hillside with three floors of interesting finds. The bus is bursting by the time we finish  at this last, charming location.  Andrea Rosen, Ana Maria  Allessi  and  Jennifer Hart  have

been friends a long time, all working at HarperCollins Publishers in New York.  Allessi  and  Hart  are neighbors in Maplewood and found the excursion.  It’s  “a  day you take for yourself, where someone else is in charge,” Hart explains, adding that it also has been wonderful, exciting and successful: Each came home with treasures. “It’s such a great day with friends,” she adds.  “I had a list,” says  Allessi, “and found everything I wanted…  1950s  glassware, a water decanter, antique silver hoop earrings for my daughter and vintage books, which I collect.”  These friends feel like they’ve  had a mini vacation. And their haul of goodies is a bonus to a perfectly enjoyable adventure.  After the  weary but exhilarated shoppers climb  aboard the bus for the final time, the Perch team passes out little treats of nuts and small splits of champagne to toast a remarkable day. When the bus pulls  into Maplewood  village late in the afternoon, the Perch staff begins  peeling away  the layers of vintage  finds  carefully  packed  underneath  the bus;  the sidewalk  is flooded with treasures. Families arrive  to  help  tired  shoppers load their cars  and  hear the  tales of their astonishing day.  As Ana Maria  Allesi  describes  it, “A middle-aged  woman’s dream day.” Amen to that.    Karen Duncan has enjoyed the Find & Go Seek Adventure three times and each visit nets wonderful discoveries. This trip she learned that one should not use a straw in a bottle of champagne.  

Beach Life

25

at

165 Maplewood Avenue Maplewood, NJ 07040 973-275-1658

Welcome Philip Alexander to Staynd Color

Versatile techniques and fashionable looks with a classic touch, Philip has an intuitive approach to hair design. His passion began, as a child, in his grandfather’s barbershop. After beauty school he studied under esteemed New York artists in the industry. He’s worked editorial and bridal designs. Highly trained, his exceptional knowledge and drive to always know more helps him bring the best work to his clients. He loves to cook, visit museums and paint. As a beauty educator, he hopes to inspire, motivate and to continue to learn. Staynd Color is thrilled to welcome him to the team.

A hairdressing boutique. Alma Victor | 2 Depot Plaza, Maplewood Village | 973-313-3100

we’Re delighted to welcome ouR new pReschool diRectoR,

danielle haRtwig

A child-centered curriculum for 2-5 yeAr olds

with extended hours: 7:30 am–6:00 pm

Be part of our vibrant young family community! RegisteR now

for Camp & presChool 2016-17

DANIELLE HARTWIG DIRECTOR

• 973-763-0113 • [email protected] • bethelnj.org • 222 irvington Avenue • south orange

26

Summer 2016

Ming green Glazzio diamond tile, Tile Design Inspirations, 1903 Springfield Avenue, Maplewood, 201-463-2519, houzz.com/pro/ liliana-crispino

John Paul Ataker white dress to love, rent and return, FittingRoom Gala Boutique & Consignment, 325 Valley Street, South Orange, 201-207-0477, fittingroomgala.com

Wooden BEACH plaque, $30, No. 165, 165 Maplewood Avenue, Maplewood, 973-2751658, no165.com

Vintage bag, $40, Retail Therapy, 7 Highland Place, Maplewood, 917-650-7895

Enjoy a cold beer on a warm day, $10.99 for a 4 pack, Maplewood Wine & Liquor, 3 Highland Place, Maplewood, 973-763-6377, maplewoodwineliquor. com

Printed cotton tea towels, $16, Perch Home, 9 Highland Place, Maplewood, 973- 821-4852, perchhome.com

Ruffle melamine sandwich platter, $39.95, Kitchen a la Mode, 19 South Orange Avenue, South Orange, 973-821-5145, kitchenalamode.net

mattersmagazine.com

27

BASS FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC Treatment and Rehabilitation for Headaches • Neck Pain • Back Pain

Do you have a good knife in your kitchen?

Sports/Gym-Related Injuries

It makes a huge difference for healthy, everyday cooking.

Disc Problems • Pinched Nerves Auto Injuries • Pregnancy-Related Aches

Our team would love to match you with the perfect knife. We offer a wide variety of price points and options.

c El EBR At iN g 10 YEARS iN mAplEWooD

DR. WAYNE BASS

Matters

491B Valley Street, Maplewood • 973-378-BASS (2277) • www.BassFamilyChiro.com

M

A

G

A

Published August 29

Z

I

N

The Knife Resort

Where good knives come to perk up An on-premises, overnight sharpening service.

E

mattersmagazine.com

“A toy store for grown-ups.”

973-763-4900 19 South Orange Avenue, South Orange

I hope I got your attention!

Around the Block. Around the World. Get Moving Right. We listen. We’re focused. We communicate. We are accountable. We love what we do.

What more do you need in a mover?

BR

ANTLEY & OS. MOVING STORAGE

Commercial, residential, international, corporate. No job is too small, or too large.

(973) 824-9500

www.brantleybros.com

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support while I’ve been away working on my undergraduate studies in Creative Writing and Vedic Science. I’m grateful to have had Dayana running the store in my absence. In the spirit of my “Coming Home,” the first person to guess the exact day of my arrival at Mona Lisa Framing will win a $100 gift card. All you have to do is email me: [email protected] It’s that easy! Thank you again for being an important part of my life. I can’t wait to see you. Warmest, Krista 7 Highland Place • Maplewood monalisaframing.com Follow me on FaceBook

mlframing

973 821 5145

Caroline Farnsworth

Keller Williams Mid-Town Direct, Maplewood 973-698-0737 [email protected] Carolinefarnsworth.com “I was the buyer before I represented sellers,” says Caroline explaining how she’d been living in Manhattan before she found Maplewood. She then commuted for 8 years in the marketing/business world before she realized that the travel and the hours were no longer fun. She was a single parent then and felt she needed to make a change that kept her local. Now 11 years in the business she can’t imagine working anywhere else. Her children are in college and she takes advantage of “girl time” with her friends, catching up at Coda or seeing a local performance at the Luna Stage or SOPAC. She’s an avid tennis player and the one to call for outdoor experiences. “I love to hike, kayak, anything where I get to be outside.” Caroline describes herself as resourceful and creative. “Figure it out Farnsworth,” is her motto and she does just that for her clients. One of her favorite shops in town is Lotus Petals, “Peggy does beautiful flowers,” she adds. And she loves to explore little towns, out of the way places. It makes her coming home to Maplewood all the sweeter.

Knock knock So many new famil

our towns this sum thanks to these loca

Photos by Jamie Meier, livelovele

Cathy Knapp

Towne Realty Group, Short Hills (201) 259-7102 [email protected] Cathyknapphomes.com Maplewood has been part of Cathy’s life forever; her mother grew up here so she remembers when Pietz’s Hardware was on the corner where Arturo’s is now, and when the Maple Leaf was on the corner of Inwood Place. “I still love the Maple Leaf,” she says. It’s where she often meets her WOB (Women of Burgdorff) friends. “Many of us began our real estate careers under the remarkable tutelage of Jean Burgdorff, and have remained great friends.” After college in Ohio, Cathy spent 20 years in municipal bonds on Wall Street where she met her husband who now supports her real estate business. They say they love their Euclid Avenue home and plan to stay forever. Cathy enjoys shopping local, “where I know who is working there,” she admits. The Tenth Muse and Perch Home on Maplewood Avenue are her favorites. “You can usually find my husband, John, at The Gate,” she says referring to St. James Gate in Maplewood Village. What Cathy values greatly is her friends. From college, from first jobs, from real estate. “I love to spend time with these girls.” ”

Debbie Rybka-Howard Team Coldwell Banker, Short Hills 908-591-4886 [email protected] lovewhereyoulivenj.com

A third generation Maplewoodian, Debbie has assembled a team of carefully chosen like-minded professionals. “I followed a path set out by my father who was a successful realtor,” she says. Christine, like Debbie, graduated from Columbia High. “My mother was the school nurse in town for decades,” Christine explains. After attending Smith College and NYU for graduate school, Christine was a Public Art Curator before reconnecting with Debbie at Burgdorff Realtors. The team includes Susan, who grew up in Brooklyn and studied at FIT; Pam, who has been a NJ resident for 20 years and specializes in short sales; and Jiin, who trained as a mechanical engineer at MIT and now excels at marketing and negotiation. Bruce Howard and Candace Snyder are the backbone of the team, handling the administrative details of the transactions.           Collectively they are passionate about animals and organizations that support animals. They often go away as a team and recharge. “We genuinely like and respect each other, and treating our clients like family has allowed us to surpass our goals,” Debbie notes.            The team counts Falafelly Yours and Town Hall Deli as their South Orange favorites. And Maplewood’s Bagel Chateau remains one of Debbie’s best memories with her son since he sas a little boy (he’s now in college) and with all her nieces and nephews. “Having grown up in Maplewood, I have fond memories of many places,” Debbie says. “Maplewood will always remain special to me, as I have very deep roots here.” The Debbie Rybka Howard Team left to right: Christine Lassiter, Susan Lugashi, Pam Webb, Debbie Rybka-Howard, Candace Snyder, Jiin Kang and Bruce Howard.

k, k.lies in

mmer al pros.

ens.com

Fran Lichtman and Randy Rabney Keller Williams Mid-Town Direct, Maplewood 646-734-3718 [email protected] 646-734-9077 [email protected] facebook.com/LichtmanRabney/

This family of New Yorkers has found true bliss in our towns. Partners in life and in business Fran and Randy never thought they’d ever leave New York. “And that’s what we tell our clients. We can relate to what they are experiencing.” Looking for more space they came to Maplewood, “to rule out New Jersey,” Randy admits with a laugh. “We were blown away with what we saw,” says Fran. Together now 26 years this couple has lived locally for 14 years. They spent the early years of their relationship in the corporate world. Randy is an attorney. “A recovering one,” she says. And Fran in the music business. An executive with Atlantic Records for 25 years, Fran attended award shows, rode the Concord to Europe and worked with the biggest and best in the industry. “It was a fast and crazy life,” she says, and often Randy traveled with her. Randy, after leaving law, trained in the Culinary School as they both have a passion for good food. Now with a teenage son they focus their efforts on helping others transition from the city to the suburbs. “We love Arturo’s,” they both agree. Music and travel remain a strong part of their lives, and raising their son in towns they never thought they’d love this much.

Sonia Quintero and Jennifer Greenberg

Keller Williams Mid-Town Direct, Maplewood 646-206-9066 [email protected] 917-757-3287 [email protected] GQLuxHomes.com

When Jennifer’s desk was moved near Sonia’s they both thought, “I hope she’s cool.” Little did they know a wonderful friendship would blossom. Like sisters who have known each other forever these two have melded their businesses and formed the GQ Lux Homes partnership. A bit like a modern family story, these 2 single mothers have figured out how to balance their work and home lives and build a brand based on their shared ideals. Sonia is a Californian working bi-coastally whereas Jennifer was born and raised here. They are a team of like-minded, funny, energetic women who passionately love their towns. Sonia is a yogi and is often found teaching classes locally; Jennifer adores live music (she has a master’s in Music Therapy from NYU), confessing that music feeds her soul. Their combined interest in real estate development and their forward thinking interests have captured the attention of South Orange village president Sheena Collum and her board who also envision great things for our towns. As women who have navigated the waters of divorce they are particularly in tune with the issues of families and property division. “Our partnership is a positive collaborative twist on real life issues in urban suburbia.” This duo can often be spotted together at local hot spots such as The Able Baker, Arturo’s and Coda in Maplewood which they say is, “working remotely.”

Monique Taylor

Keller Williams Mid-Town Direct, Maplewood 973-449-1146 [email protected] Moniquetaylor.com It took this Charleston, South Carolina girl a while to get to Maplewood. After Cornell for college she went back to Charleston and began a long career as a social worker. “I worked with disadvantaged youth,” she described, often spending weeks with families at risk. And then she got the itch for acting and moved to New York enrolling in the William Esper Studio. “I was lucky and found work in commercials and doing voice overs which I still do on occasion.” In 2005 she took another turn and got her real estate license, moved to New Jersey and began representing mostly urban properties. She weathered the market downturn and after some recruiting, and moving to Maplewood with her husband, joined the KW Mid-Town Direct team. “It’s been wonderful working in the community we have come to love,” she says. A rabid football fan, Monique roots for her Carolina Panthers. “We love going to Ricalton’s in South Orange for the games,” she says and hopes to attract other Panther fans, “and start a fan group!” Currently she and her husband are preparing to become foster/adoptive parents and hopefully will soon be welcoming a new little one to Maplewood.

Natalie Farrell

Weichert Realtors, Maplewood 917-514-7541 [email protected] nataliefarrell.com Growing up in Little Italy has distinct advantages. “I became a very good cook,” says Natalie, but don’t ask for her marinara recipe – it’s a secret, she says. Her grandparents arrived from Sicily and settled in that part of New York City and her parents remained. She attended FIT and became a wardrobe stylist with a pretty stellar client list such as Cameron Diaz and Dave Mathews. She styled for Bloomingdales and other retailers as well. Her blog chronicles some of her fascinating escapades. She and her husband lived in the West Village where their daughters were born but, yearning for more space and a green lawn the family found the perfect Victorian in South Orange, which has been home since 2000. “I wanted to be home more with the girls,” she said of her giving up the fashion career and getting her real estate license. And she never looked back, building a steady and now stellar team and reputation. As a Sicilian, Natalie is partial to Italian food and, in particular, adores Boccone South on South Orange Avenue. “Silvio is amazing,” she says of the owner/chef. And that’s saying something from a girl who grew up in New York’s Little Italy. Left to right is Nancy Gould, Natalie Farrell, Melissa Portfolio, Jen McManus

Roger Salomon

Weichert Realtors, Maplewood 973-996-8080 [email protected] MaplewoodResidential.com Roger’s two young daughters get a hug from Pete at Parkwood Diner on Springfield Avenue every time the family dines there. “That,” he says, “is just part of what I love about this community.” He and his wife moved here from Queens when their first was just 8 months old and living around the corner from Clinton School has been a joy. His real estate career came out of true enjoyment and devotion to the towns they now proudly call home. Lovers of all creatures, the Salomon family has a dog, cats and chickens, which they raise in their backyard. “My kids are very involved in the care of the chickens,” he explains. They net about one egg a day now. Roger enjoys grilling on his deck and a good beer. “I might be a bit of a beer snob,” he admits, along with the fact that he cheers for the Mets, and never the Yankees. “This really is a remarkable place to live,” he says, “it’s a real village, a community of caring, supportive people. Being in real estate is a wonderful extension of my passion for living here.

Susan Blodgett and Ginny Spiegel Coldwell Banker, Maplewood 973-214-4636 [email protected] 973-219-8865 [email protected] TheBlodgettGroup.com

Ginny is a hometown girl; her grandfather founded the former Klein Realty in Maplewood. Susan took the world tour to get here, having lived in New York, California and Germany before settling in town. And while Ginny came home after college in Ohio, Susan began a long and successful career in marketing and advertising in the pharmaceutical, publishing and ultimately the television and movie business. An executive with Universal, CBS Fox and Orion pictures, Susan was responsible for a host of areas from press junkets to product placement. She attended award events and knew, personally, many celebrities. “It was a fast-paced life,” Susan says and it involved a great deal of travel, which she still enjoys. Ginny is a gardener and her Maplewood yard is her canvas. She was active in the local schools when her girls were young and enjoys running. Susan grew up working on cars with her father and took up car racing which has been curtailed lately. “She still drives fast,” says Ginny with a smile, but adds she’s a great driver. These partners complement each other beautifully knowing that their clients are always covered. “A true team,” says Susan who adds they manage properties as part of their business, for many of their clients who are overseas. And they both find themselves at the Village Trattoria for lunch nearly every day. “It’s our favorite,” they both agree, and another reason their partnership is so successful.

Vanessa Pollock

Keller Williams Mid-Town Direct, Maplewood 917-723-4006 [email protected] 30minutestonyc.com Vanessa’s dream since she was a child was to be a dancer. She studied at the University of Texas where she met her husband, Charlie, and after graduation they moved to Manhattan where he pursued acting and she dance. “We lived on what little we could scrape together from waiting tables,” she says of their early years. Vanessa was studying with the Merce Cunningham Dance Company but soon realized her dream job came with very little pay. She started modeling and became a “fit model” for Victoria’s Secret. When Charlie got his first big role in Broadway’s Urinetown with the national tour, Vanessa joined him, pregnant, and ultimately took their infant son on the road with them.             Back from tour and living in Jersey City, Vanessa began to work for a Realtor as an assistant and to learn the business but quickly realized she could do this on her own. They moved to South Orange and by 2007 she was a top producer. “After my 3rd baby, working 7 days a week was very difficult, so I made a total change.” She began to build a team, and a brand. “I wanted a business that was good for all, including the community, so I began my “Care Serve Give” campaign.” Now with a group of 9 the VP team is passionate about local projects such as the “Vanessa Pollock Music Initiative” which provides scholarships and instruments to promising local students. The team has raised more than $42,000 for local initiatives and charities.             The Pollocks now live in Maplewood where their girls attend Clinton and her son is at South Orange Middle. About to celebrate their 19th wedding anniversary, the couple says that SOMA is the most special community on earth. The Vanessa Pollock Team pictured left to right: Carrie Schwartz (Sales Agent), Kate Dawson (Team Concierge), Steve Hogle (Listing Agent), Vanessa Pollock (CEO), Kathleen Nittolo (Closing Coordinator) Not pictured: Sheri Greenman (Sales Agent), Denise Payne (Sales Agent), Kimberly Curtis (Sales Agent), Bonnie Ramsey (Director of Digital Strategy).

Valarie Tart Williams

Keller Williams Mid-Town Direct, Maplewood 973-641-3358 [email protected] ourdreamhomenj.com This self-proclaimed “breakfast girl” found her call to real estate when another local agent spotted her, yet again, at a local open house. She told her she really should get her license. “I love architecture and design,” Val says with a smile, “and flea markets.” She enjoys poking in antique and vintage shops and her clients know she has an extremely visual and critical eye. This is a gal who can spot a good deal a mile away. A local agent since 2000, Val’s corporate background on Wall Street prepared her for the rigors of real estate negotiation and attention to detail. She traveled extensively with that career yet with her children and all their activities she wanted to stay more local. Growing up in the south could be why she’s such a lady. Val loves to sing and participates in her church choir. “My father loved to sing,” she says, so music has always been in her life. She admits she’s a sucker for Grid Iron Waffles and adores Kitchen a la Mode, both in South Orange, where she lives. She says she’s not a daily cook, but watch out on the holidays. “I have 30 for Thanksgiving,” she says. “I love cooking for a crowd.” However, breakfast remains her favorite meal.

Victoria Carter Weichert Realtors, Short Hills 973-220-3050 [email protected] victoriacarter.com

With a Rutgers master’s degree in food service management Victoria first went to work as a registered dietitian. She rose quickly and became the executive director of food services for the New York City Department of Corrections. Her expertise took her to Saks Fifth Avenue where she was corporate vice president of operations. “I was responsible for the day-to-day operations side of the business, not the merchandising,” she explains. And this sense of business is what has carried over to running her highly successful real estate business. “My first son was born and I was traveling too much,” she explained as her reason for leaving the corporate world and getting her real estate license. Born in Brooklyn, Victoria found Maplewood 22 years ago when they first moved there with their sons, and now she calls South Orange home, which gives her the unique perspective of living in both SOMA towns. Her team totals 12, “all who are loyal and tremendous individuals.” Victoria still enjoys travel, only now with her family to fun get-aways, where she gets to “recharge.” She’s a self-professed lover of shopping, and notes The Ten Muse in Maplewood as one of her favorites. She and her husband dine at Verjus on Springfield Avenue often and are regulars at the Paper Mill Playthhouse. She loves to cook. “Tough, but soft,” she laughs, describing herself. This Brooklyn girl enjoys life, and her work, thoroughly. The Victoria Carter team pictured left to right are Laurie Nesser, Amy Beltempo, Debbie Millman, Victoria Carter, Karen Cummins, Monica Alpert, Kathy Handelman. Not pictured: Arden Canecchia.

32

Summer 2016

Park Wood

D I N E R •

R E S T A U R A N T

We CATER!

(Free Delivery to your Home or Office!)

You are going to love our outdoor deck as much as our food! •Fresh Ingredients •Fresh Fish •Daily Specials•Gourmet Salads

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner

1958 Springfield Avenue • Maplewood (973) 313-3990 • fax (973) 313-3991

camp countdown matters There is still time to get your children enrolled in some terrific summer CAMP programs. Take a look:

Kinder Gan

120 Parker Avenue, Maplewood Frume Bogomilsky – Director 973-763-7455 maplewoodjewishcenter.org Ages 2-5 Kiddie Camp, which runs from June 27 through July 28, is dedicated to enriching the lives of children of diverse Jewish backgrounds. Innovative themes and creative activities provide enjoyment and inspire children to try new and exciting things. Activities include music, art, science, water play and lots of action.

Mickey Fried Preschool of Oheb Shalom Congregation

170 Scotland Road, South Orange Sloane Goldstein - Director 973-762-7069 ohebshalom.org/preschool Ages 2-5 Mickey Fried Preschool offers camp options beginning June 14 through August 19. With many different enrollment choices, including early drop-off, a child’s summer camp experience can be customized as needed. Campers are kept busy both indoors and outside in the outdoor classroom. Activities include water and sand play, nature, music and movement, drama, cooking, sports, arts and crafts, story time and snack.

Mini Camp at Far Brook School 52 Great Hills Road, Short Hills

Paula Levin - Director 973-992-2192 minicamp.org Ages 3-7 Mini Camp at Far Brook School from June 20 through July 29 is the ultimate experience for 3 to 7-year-old children in a relaxed rural environment. The camp offers a high ratio of experienced, nurturing teachers/counselors to children and weekly themed activities, with specialists in all areas.

New Jersey Fencing Alliance

50-58 Burnett Avenue, Maplewood Frank Mustilli - Director 973-763-5728 njfencingalliance.com All ages NJFA is dedicated to introducing the sport of fencing to people of all ages and athletic abilities. The club offers professional instruction, recreation and competition in all weapons. All programs encourage self-esteem and self-confidence, promoting education through athletics. Contact the Alliance for summer programs.

Thelma K. Reisman Preschool of Beth El

222 Irvington Avenue, South Orange Danielle Hartwig - Director 973-763-0113 bethelnj.org Ages 2-5 The Thelma K. Reisman Preschool’s mini-camp runs five days a week for seven weeks from June 27 to August 12, including water play, nature activities, arts and crafts and music. Campers can attend for a week or two or all summer. Activities move indoors when the weather is unpleasant. Hours vary by age. Post school/ special pre-camp week June 14 -17.

The South Orange Country Day

461 Vose Avenue, South Orange Annemarie Maini - Director 973-762-6451 socds.com Ages 2 ½ -6 South Orange Country Day offers a weekly flexible schedule this summer. It will have themed activities and special visitors planned for each week, from June 27 through August 26.

continued from page 11

mattersmagazine.com

33

Where’s Waldo?

In Maplewood, of course! The famous children’s book character in the striped shirt and blackrimmed specs is visiting twenty plus local businesses throughout Maplewood during the entire month of July. Those who spot him can win prizes, including stickers, book coupons and more. Waldo figures will be well hidden in local business establishments. Anyone who wishes to participate can pick up a “Find Waldo!” passport at [words] bookstore. The names of all the participating sites are listed on the passport. Then the scavenger hunt begins! Visit participating businesses in order to get your passport stamped or signed for each Waldo you spot. The first 100 Waldo seekers to get their passports stamped or signed at ten or more sites can bring their passports back to [words] bookstore to receive a fantastic Waldo button. Collecting store stamps or signatures at twenty or more businesses will entitle diligent seekers entry into the grand prize drawing on July 28, with the top prize being a six-volume deluxe set of Waldo books. There is no charge to participate and the hunt lasts until July 28. For more information about hunting for Waldo in Maplewood call [words] bookstore at 973-763-9500.

Residential And Commercial

SuMmErMuSiC Maplewoodstock Music & Arts Festival is July 9-10

Maplewoodstock Music and Arts Festival, a free live music and art event, will be held in Memorial Park, 160 Dunnell Road, Maplewood, July 9 and 10, from noon until 10:00 p.m. each day. Now in its 13th year, Maplewoodstock, has grown from a lazy afternoon jam in the park to a lively free two-day music and art festival enjoyed by upwards of 6,500 attendees each day. In addition to the music, there will be local arts and craft vendors, food of all varieties, a beer garden and a large KidZone with games, inflatable rides, crafts and more. Saturday’s line up will headline festival favorites Railroad Earth and featured act Maya Acuzena who performed at Maplewoodstock 2010 and is back by popular demand. Sunday’s show will close with legendary NRBQ and featured Jersey Shore artist Nicole Atkins. A total of 23 bands will perform over the two-day festival, many with local ties to the robust Maplewood-South Orange music scene and 15 first-time performers. Bring lawn chairs, picnic baskets and blankets and spend the weekend enjoying music, art and food in the company of family, friends and neighbors on a park hillside in the center of Maplewood. For a full lineup of bands, the canopy policy and more information, visit maplewoodstock.com.

34

Summer 2016

localmatters

MAPLEWOOD’S 4th of July Favorites

PLUS New All Day Attractions! A day-long, fun-filled fair environment with food, events tent, games, car show and the main stage, all in town!

“Maplewood’s 4th of July celebration now includes some fantastic new additions to the perennial favorites”, announces committee chair, Tom Pascuite. “This year’s celebration will be bigger and better,” he says, “with enhanced all-day attractions and streamlined online purchase of admission.” The aim is to have a day-long fun-filled fair environment with food, attractions and entertainment. This year’s 4th will be a full day of family fun, including the 5k Run, opening ceremonies, kids’ bikes, a parade, kids’ dashes and relays, the Columbia High robotics club, the art project, ice cream eating contests, tennis contests, a baking contest, karaoke, kids’ percussion, pet awards show, the Zerbini family circus, live music and, of course, evening fireworks.

Car Show

Maplewood’s First 4th of July Car Show will take place from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in Memorial Park. Car owners can enter their vehicles online, for free, at maplewoodcivic.org. Trophies will be awarded. Cool cars, movie cars, celebrity cars, antique cars, collector cars, muscle cars, motorcycles and others are invited.

Live Music

Art Project

The 2016 iteration of this 4th of July tradition, the Art Project, spearheaded by John Kaufman, will be mounted on the big ball field backstop in Memorial Park’s South Field. A community-wide enterprise on an even bigger scale than last year, each “pixel” is an opportunity for individual expression. With a theme of balance inspired by baseball imagery, you can make a statement and sign on for sense and reason.

As part of the new all-afternoon concert stage, the concert headliner will be Park Ave. There will be something for everyone in the wide selection of songs that have everyone up and dancing from the very first song. Park Ave will perform three 45-minute sets, starting at 6, 7 and 8 p.m. DJ Jimmy B. will DJ in-between so that there will be a combination of live acts and DJ’ing from 2 pm throughout the afternoon. This entertainment will overlap with the car show. The Jersey Girls will perform as part of our all-afternoon concert stage. The Jersey Girls specialize in songs that have strong vocal harmony reminiscent of the original recordings! Dancing to the oldies from the ‘60s through the ‘70s — a truly entertaining musical experience that all ages will enjoy. Before the fireworks climax of the evening, there will be a Light Show Spectacular and DJ dance party in front of the stage.

mattersmagazine.com

35

Big Events Tent

Part of the enhanced daytime attractions is the Big Events Tent. This 40x100 tent on Memorial Park’s South Field will be a convenient and fun destination. It will be the site of newly-added attractions as well as perennial favorites such as the baking contest, pet awards show, robotics and ice cream eating contests. There will be clear postings of an event schedule of all the activities that will be taking place throughout the day and under the tent.

Online Wristband Sales

MidWay Amusement Zone

Nostalgic MidWay amusements will be part of the enhanced daytime attractions on Memorial Park’s South Field. The amusements will include carnival-style attractions and a selection of games such as ring toss and spin the wheel games and bouncy and fun house.

$10 Wristband for All-day Access, Concert and Fireworks. Add the Circus for only $5 more. Reduced price Circusonly wristband available for 1:00 and 3:30 p.m. shows. Avoid the line! Reserve your Circus showtime! (Remaining seats on event day will be sold first-come first-served.)

Food Court

Attendees now have the ability to choose your circus show time. Wristbands are required for entry and can be purchased at entrance gates on July 4th or in advance online.

Second Prime Viewing Zone

In addition to the customary viewing area for the fireworks in Memorial New this year will be the creation of a new food court vendor zone on Park’s South Field, the North (circus) Field will be enclosed to create an the Baker Street side of Memorial Park’s South Field. Vendors will operate additional prime viewing area for the fireworks for paid attendees. This is part of redesigned viewing areas with new entrances and additional all day and in a food area with sheltered and open-air tables and chairs. restrooms in both fields. There will be a total of 4 entrances with access to cross between the north and south fields. Wristbands will be required for entry to viewing areas for fireworks. The switch from tags to wristbands is expected to shorten lines and ease movement.

New Website/ Social Media

Now in its 144th year, Maplewood Civic Association’s July 4th Celebration finally has a website: maplewoodcivic.org for admission purchase and all details. Visit Facebook: “Maplewood 4th of July” Twitter: @maplewood4th

36

Resource

EYE CARE

LOCAL

Summer 2016

GUIDE

DESIGNER CONSIGNMENT

NORTHERN NEW JERSEY

EYE INSTITUTE Charles J. Crane, M.D. • Bernard Spier, M.D. Allison B. Gunzburg, M.D.

Cataract Surgery Lasik Surgery Eye Lid Plastic Surgery Glaucoma & Diabetic Eye Care Premium Intraocular Lens Designer Consignment s Vintage & Current Stylish, Hip, Unique Clothing, Hats, Handbags, Shoes, Jewelry Free Personal Stylist On Site

71 SECOND STREET SOUTH ORANGE, NJ Morristown • West Caldwell • Elizabeth

973-763-2203 • NNJEI.COM •

7 Highland Place, Maplewood Village 917 650 7895

NEW LOCATION. COME TAKE A LOOK. OPEN Tuesday through Friday 11-5 and Saturdays 10-5.

PAINTING Fully Insured: Workers’ Comp Liability

NJHIC# 13VH06449500

Interior & Exterior Painting

www.wilberspainting.com ∙ Maplewood, NJ

PET SERVICES

973-762-6333 Maida Lind Maplewood, NJ

H: 973-378-9371 C: 973-444-9110

www.purr-fectpetcatsitting.com [email protected] Insured Bonded

Carpentry Sheetrock Refinishing Floors Tile & Gutters Free Estimates Affordable Fully Insured

973 313-2338

World of Colors Professional Painters

mattersmagazine.com

37

$200 OFF

ROOFING

Any Complete Roof

this coupon must be presented when contract is signed. Certified

CE17703

Roofing & Siding We do not Sub-Contract

Replacement Windows Family Run Business CHIMNEY REPOINTING

973-324-9461

PLUMBING TILE DESIGN Beautiful inspiration.

HOUSE Matters

WINES & LIQUORS

1903 Springfield Ave | Maplewood | 201-463-2519 liliana_crispino.houzz.com

WINE • LIQUOR • CORDIALS • BEER

All Wines

Mix and Match 6 bottles: 10% off 12 bottles: 20% off

750 ml size only • excludes sale items

Howard Herschfield

Specializing in small projects Maplewood area 917-656-1371 [email protected]

3 Highland Place • Maplewood Village • 973-763-6377 • www.maplewoodwineliquor.com

38

Summer 2016

finalmatters

CoverGirls

I

Above; Seated from left to right are Lola Freeman, 14; Alexandra Krim, 14; Isabella Yagid, 14; Chloe Kaplan 13, Mary Arevalo, 15; and Juliet Arana, 15.

Right: Ready to swim, these girls were dressed in what were fashionable 1916 bathing suits.

In 1916,  six New Jersey girls were enjoying summer camp together.  They were fascinated with  suffragettes and shorter skirts. Hemlines were rising, and the vote for women was four  years away.  Their families were just getting  telephones  installed.  At the family dinner table these girls heard the horrors of a  raging war in Europe and fretted that their brothers, cousins or even fathers would have to be part of it. Woodrow Wilson was campaigning for his second term and they felt that passing the right for women to vote was paramount. They adored Norman Rockwell’s first cover that appeared on The Saturday Evening Post. Their favorite song was “Pretty Baby” by Billy Murray.   Our modern cover girls, like their sisters one hundred years ago, were born at the turn of a new century. These 2016 girls enjoy Anime, Japanese hand-drawn computer animation, and Cosplay (a contraction of the words costume and Roleplay) in which players wear costumes and fashion accessories to represent specific characters. They like music and drawing and writing and acting. They enjoy all kinds of sports and hobbies and take their studies seriously.  In 1916,  women  could  not vote  or  divorce, have their own bank accounts, join the  Army, stand for election or work in most companies after they married. Perhaps the greatest victory over the past 100 years is the level of education now widely available to American girls and women. Our 2016 cover girls are passionate about making sure   the  empower ment of women keeps marching forward.  I am indebted to photographer Joy Yagid for her vision of recreating this treasured photo. I have always felt this image spoke volumes to the power of women, young or old, and friendship. The girl  third from the right  was my grandmother, Dorothy. 

: ALLISON ZIEFERT REALTOR

BARBARA LAWRENCE REALTOR

Start the SUMMER right with SOMA‘s #1 Agency of Choice

CARLA LABIANCA REALTOR

CAROL V. FARDIN REALTOR

CAROLINE FARNSWORTH REALTOR

CHRISTINA AINGE

COLLETTE ANDREWS

DARIA KNARVIK

JENNIFER GREENBERG

JODI CAMPBELL

JOHN BEADLE

MARK MATTHEISS

MARK SLADE

REALTOR

REALTOR

REALTOR

There’s a Reason why KW Mid-Town Direct Realty is the office of choice in SOMA. DONNA BROWN REALTOR

FRANCINE LICHTMAN BROKER ASSOCIATE

ELIZA DANIELSON REALTOR

2016 Year to Date GSMLS

COMBINED AREA OFFICES

LISTINGS -8.39 % CONTRACTS WRITTEN (LIST SIDE) +27 % CLOSED PRODUCTION +18.74 %

LISA DANBROT REALTOR

MAGGIE

REALTOR

THOMAS “TOM” MCCAULEY

REALTOR

REALTOR

OCTAVIO MENDES

BROKER OF RECORD

VALARIE TART-WILLIAMS REALTOR

REED KEAN

REALTOR/OPERATING PARTNER

RANDY RABNEY REALTOR

REALTOR

+10.34 % +62.96 % +22.50 %

REALTOR

SUSIE ADAMSON REALTOR

-9.42 % +25 % +7.73 %

AXELRODCALISTER

MYRIAL PEDERSEN

REALTOR

KW Mid-town Direct Realty

* Area of Focus are the following city(s): Maplewood Twp., South Orange Village Twp., West Orange Twp. Information provided by Garden State MLS.

MARY CEU NUNES BROKER ASSOCIATE

REALTOR

ROBERT SHAFFRON REALTOR

SHANNON SEVERIN REALTOR

REALTOR

SONIA QUINTERO REALTOR

VANESSA POLLOCK REALTOR

Serving South Orange, Maplewood & Beyond

o 973-762-5400 f 973-762-5401 | 181 Maplewood Avenue, Maplewood, NJ Each office independently owned and operated

Mid-TownDirectRealty.yourkwoffice.com

Keller Williams Mid-Town Direct Realty

KellerWilliamsMidtownDirect

Waiting for a sign that it’s time to make a move? Here it is. 145 Maplewood Ave in Maplewood Village 973-378-8300