Chatham & Short Hills, NJ August 2024

EXCEPTIONAL

DENTISTRY BY SPECIALIZED DENTISTS

Dr. Azizian, DDS & Dr. Sallustio, DDS

Dr. Sallustio and Dr. Azizian practice a full scope of prosthetic and cosmetic dentistry. With a focus on implants, crowns, bridges and porcelain veneers, Dr. Sallustio and Azizian help patients regain confidence in their smile. The doctors also provide life changing treatments includng same day All-on-4 implants and bridges, prosthetics for oral cancer, trauma and congenital defects including cleft lip and palate. Consider a consultation with Drs. Sallustio and Azizian to analyze your smile.

Kids and Pets

Our Kids and Pets issue is always one of my favorites. Maybe it’s because of the immense joy that children bring to our families and the significant impact they make on our communities.

Children are not merely the hope for a brighter tomorrow; they are the foundation upon which our society stands. Their innocence, curiosity, and boundless potential have the power to shape the world in ways we can only imagine. Kids represent our hardest work and greatest investment, and we are happy to highlight the best for our kids in this issue.

And who could forget pets? They too are members of our families! Their special kind of companionship can be a transformative experience for children and adults alike. Pets provide us with unconditional love, the opportunity to learn, grow and develop essential life skills in a nurturing environment. And who could ignore the bond between kids and their furry or feathery friends? The bond is often deep and meaningful, fostering qualities like empathy, responsibility, and companionship.

We have two adorable furry little Havanese, Lucky and Max, who like our kids, have very different and distinct personalities. They are a major part of our family and together we continue to build amazing memories with them and our children.

In this issue we are highlighting a must-see exhibit for the entire family, The Art of the Brick. Also in this issue, you will get to know Princeton Speech located in Madison, NJ and learn about all the fun filled family activities at The South Mountain Recreation Complex in West Orange, NJ.

We hope this issue inspires you to try something new!

If you have interesting, fun, and meaningful stories to share or are a business looking to grow within our community and the surrounding area, we would love to hear from you. Contact John.Meyer@citylifestyle.com for advertising opportunities and Ana.Meyer@citylifestyle.com for editorials or call us at 973-944-1440.

We look forward to seeing you around town!

ANA AND JOHN MEYER, PUBLISHERS @CHATHAMSHORTHILLS

August 2024

PUBLISHERS

Ana Meyer | ana.meyer@citylifestyle.com

John Meyer | john.meyer@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Ana Meyer | ana.meyer@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sue Baldani, Ben Meyer

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Chris Jorda Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

city scene

Dine "Al Fresco" at La Pergola's in Millburn,

NJ.

Nestled in the heart of Millburn, La Pergola has curated a delightful outdoor garden dining experience in addition to our signature indoor space. Now whether you prefer to dine surrounded by the lush, flower-filled beauty of nature or in the candlelit elegance of our chic interior, we look forward to serving you the region's best Northern Italian cuisine in style and dine "al fresco" in August! https://lapergolanj.com/

trucks AND our Margarita Truck for added Flair! We’ll come to you, keep the mess outside, and delight your guests with the best Mexican Food around! Our homemade Margarita Mixers make for a truly unique offering with our Authentic flavors of Spicy Tamarind and Hibiscus Mint with tajín rim. Make it Memorable with Mexican Spice! !  Jennifer Teutli, Chef/Owner  https://www.mexicanspice.net/

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Celebrate with Calabria's Event Space (up-to 130 Guest) and Catering

Indulge in the timeless elegance of Calabria Pizzeria and Restaurant, a culinary gem nestled in Livingston, NJ, for over four decades. Experience authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy family ambiance, where every dish is crafted with the freshest ingredients. Host your next memorable event with Calabria’s, whether an intimate gathering or a grand celebration. Our spacious dining room accommodates up to 130 guests, while our attentive staff ensures impeccable service. https://calabrianj.com/

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Want to be featured?

ARTICLE BY BEN MEYER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS JORDA PHOTOGRAPHY

Boardwalk The Rutgers

BRIDGING MEMORIES AND GAME DAY MAGIC

New Jersey is synonymous with its vibrant boardwalks, stretching along the Jersey Shore and captivating visitors with their unique blend of food, fun and nostalgia. Drawing inspiration from these iconic locales, Rutgers University has crafted a game day experience unlike any other: The Rutgers Boardwalk. Born from a desire to merge the beloved spirit of the Jersey Shore with the excitement of Rutgers football, this pregame paradise is a nod to tradition with a twist of modern magic.

Imagine the thrill of Jenkinson’s in Point Pleasant or the lively atmosphere of Morey’s Pier in Wildwood, now reimagined at the heart of Rutgers. The vision was simple: create a Disney-like experience that unites generations of fans and community members, forging unforgettable memories every game day.

From the moment you step onto The Rutgers Boardwalk, you’re greeted by a sensory feast. Lively tunes from some of New Jersey’s best local bands fill the air, setting the stage for a day of family fun. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker eager to tackle the Ferris Wheel and Pirate Ship, or prefer a leisurely round of miniature golf, there’s something for everyone. Kids can delight in the petting zoo, pony rides and whimsical face painters, while magicians and stilt walkers roam, adding a touch of wonder. All these activities are free of charge!

And let’s not forget the food – the lifeblood of any boardwalk. Flanking both sides of the Rutgers Boardwalk are 20-30 locally owned food trucks, offering everything from classic pizza and fries to gourmet tacos and ice cream. Each game day promises a culinary adventure, with special themes like Halloween bringing even more treats and surprises.

Adults can unwind at the beer garden, perfectly positioned in front of the live entertainment stage, enjoying a brew while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. With tons of seating provided along The Rutgers Boardwalk, you have great choices to sit, eat and people watch.  Also available is a restroom trailer for parents with young children, shaded areas and courtesy shuttles.

As kickoff approaches, the energy ramps up with a pre-game parade led by the Rutgers Cheer & Dance Teams, the Marching Scarlet Knights and the ever-enthusiastic Sir Henry, the Scarlet Knight mascot. The parade heads down The Rutgers Boardwalk, culminating in a spirited pep rally that gets everyone chanting and cheering in unison. The highlight? The triumphant arrival of the Rutgers football team, making their way through the boardwalk to the roars of the crowd.

But the excitement doesn’t end with football season. The Rutgers Boardwalk has ambitious plans for the future, with dreams of adding rollercoasters and log flumes, ensuring the fun never stops.

For those looking to dive into this immersive experience, The Rutgers Boardwalk opens four hours before every home game kicks off. So, whether you’re a lifelong Scarlet Knights fan or a newcomer, join the fun and create new traditions on game day. After all, as they say, “If we don’t have it, they don’t want it!” Visit ScarletKnights.com for up-todate information.  The

ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI

HELPING CHILDREN WHO ARE STRUGGLING IN SCHOOL AND IN EVERYDAY LIFE

FOSTERING COMMUNICATION SKILLS

When a child is having issues with learning, speech clarity, or social interactions, parents may not know where to turn. Helping those with communication issues is the specialty of Princeton Speech-Language & Learning Center (PSLLC). Founded in 1989, the center

“THERE

reason, the center accepts children as young as two.

“There’s no risk in having your child evaluated,” says Marcie. “However, if there’s a delay that is not identified, the gap in development will continue to grow.”

IS NO RISK IN HAVING YOUR CHILD EVALUATED.”

has two locations - one in Princeton and, since 2022, another in Madison.

“We really strive to provide quality, individualized therapeutic services, “says Marcie Fountaine, co-owner and clinical director. The vision of the clinic focuses on helping individuals of all ages, but particularly children and young adults, develop essential speech, language and social communication skills.

One of the big differences that sets this private practice apart from schoolbased services is that the staff works with the whole family. “Of course, we want to support children’s academic needs, but we also want to support them at home and in the community,” says Carole Drury, co-owner and director of business operations.

Parents turn to PSLLC because research has shown that effective speech-language therapy and academic support at the right time can greatly improve a child’s chances of success in school and in life. Early intervention is key and for this

The clinic treats students with Autism Spectrum Disorder, receptive and expressive language delays, articulation difficulties, and literacy weaknesses. Additionally, PSLLC specializes in supporting social communication, better known as social skills, in a neurodivergent affirming manner. There’s the opportunity to address these skills in either individual or group therapy from preschool through the teenage years. While many people assume social difficulties primarily impact a child’s ability to relate to their peers, it can also impact a child’s awareness of expectations in different environments and perspective-taking skills. Weak perspective-taking skills can influence reading comprehension and/ or the ability to follow character motivations in television shows and movies.

To help clients, the center offers a licensed staff who are highly trained with advanced degrees.  “The entire staff at PSLLC stays up-to-date with current trends in therapy to provide the most effective, evidence-based

CONTINUED >

therapeutic approaches,“ says Marcie. Instead of a clinical setting, both centers have a welcoming and warm atmosphere, and children (and adults) arrive and leave happy.

“The field of speech-language pathology is incredibly rewarding,” adds Carole. “We build positive connections with families and provide services that enhance a child’s ability to express their thoughts and ideas and improve their abilities to interact with peers. We view our clients like family, and it is incredibly satisfying to witness their progress.”

PSLLC offers free phone consultations and listens carefully to parents to figure out what is going on and to determine the type of services needed. “We want to ensure that whatever the parent is looking for, we’re guiding them in the appropriate direction,” says Marcie. “If they’re calling for a service that we can’t provide, then I make the necessary referral.”

For more information, visit PSLLCNJ.com or call 609-924-7080

Creative Works

THE ART OF THE BRICK

THE WORLD'S LARGEST DISPLAY OF LEGO® ART AT THE FRANKLIN INSTITUTE

ARTICLE BY BENJAMIN MEYER

Get ready, LEGO® lovers of all ages! The Franklin Institute is thrilled to present THE ART OF THE BRICK, the world’s largest display of LEGO® art. Whether you’re a kid or a kid at heart, this is one adventure you won’t want to miss!

This captivating exhibition, available through September 2, 2024, showcases the genius of contemporary artist Nathan Sawaya, whose impressive collection of over 100 pieces transforms

PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE ART OF THE BRICK

the humble LEGO brick into breathtaking works of art.

THE ART OF THE BRICK features several never-before-seen creations in Philadelphia, including a custom piece by Sawaya dedicated to the City of Brotherly Love. But that’s not all— the exhibition also boasts a massive 9,000-square-foot interactive brick play space, exclusive to The Franklin Institute, making it a must-visit for families and LEGO enthusiasts alike.

One of the standout features of this year’s exhibit is PERNiCiEM: The Endangered Species Connection. This innovative multimedia collaboration between Sawaya and award-winning photographer Dean West aims to raise awareness about the urgent issue of extinction. The collection includes 13 large-scale sculptures of endangered animals, meticulously crafted from LEGO bricks. Imagine gazing upon a life-sized humpback whale, polar bear,

“A REMARKABLE EXHIBIT THAT BLENDS ART, MATH, SCIENCE, AND ENGINEERING.”

or lowland gorilla, each paired with a stunning cinematic image of their natural habitat. Sawaya and West traveled the globe to capture these habitats, adding an extra layer of authenticity and emotion to the pieces.

“The PERNiCiEM collection is a creative and powerful way to illustrate the urgent issue of extinction,” explained Sawaya. “We traveled the globe to find different locations where these actual endangered species would be in their natural environment, but we wanted to use the LEGO brick versions to convey the message that they are endangered, and we need to act.”

In addition to the PERNiCiEM collection, visitors will experience reimagined versions of famous artworks, such as Basquiat’s Pez Dispenser, Frida Kahlo’s The Frame, and Hilma af Klint’s The Swan No. 17. You’ll also see Decisions, a gravity-defying piece made from an astounding 112,306 bricks, making it Sawaya’s largest creation to date.

For pop culture fans, the iconic Yellow sculpture—a life-size figure of a man ripping his chest open with thousands of yellow LEGO bricks cascading from the cavity—will be on display. And who could resist walking under a 20-foot-long T-Rex dinosaur skeleton made entirely of LEGO

bricks, staring up at its massive, yet playful, LEGO skull?

But the fun doesn’t stop with admiring these masterpieces. Upon exiting the exhibit, guests are invited into a sprawling 9,000-square-foot brick play space filled with thousands of LEGO bricks across five distinct stations. Here, creativity reigns supreme as visitors of all ages can construct their own designs or participate in various brick-building activities. For younger builders, a designated area with LEGO® DUPLO® sets ensures that everyone can join in the fun.

THE ART OF THE BRICK is not just an exhibit; it’s an experience that melds art, math, science, and engineering. Larry Dubinski, President and CEO of The Franklin Institute, sums it up perfectly: “The ART OF THE BRICK is a remarkable exhibit that blends art, math, science, and engineering, showcasing the interdisciplinary nature of creativity. Philadelphia is an art and science city, and we are thrilled to bring this extraordinary exhibition back to the region and our community.”

Whether you’re a LEGO fanatic, an art lover, or just looking for a unique family outing, THE ART OF THE BRICK at The Franklin Institute is the place to be. Be prepared to be amazed by the magic of LEGO art! Tickets are timed and dated. Advance ticket purchase is recommended. www.fi.edu

DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF SOUTH MOUNTAIN RECREATION COMPLEX

A Family Adventure Awaits in West Orange, NJ

Nestled in the heart of West Orange, NJ, the South Mountain Recreation Complex is a delightful destination, brimming with excitement and adventure for the entire family. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an animal lover, or simply seeking a fun day out with the kids, this hidden gem offers an array of activities guaranteed to create lasting memories.

TURTLE BACK ZOO: A WORLD IN YOUR BACKYARD

Start your day with a visit to the renowned Turtle Back Zoo, where the motto “The World in Your Backyard” perfectly encapsulates the experience. Established over six decades ago, this beloved zoo is home to more than 400 animals representing 156 species. With an impressive 900,000 visitors annually, it’s no wonder the zoo has become a staple in the community.

Wander through the Africa Adventure exhibit, where majestic giraffes, regal lions, and playful penguins captivate audiences of all ages. Transition to the Amazing Asia exhibit to marvel at the elusive clouded leopards and adorable red pandas. Don’t miss the chance to meet Andy, a wise 64-year-old Aldabra tortoise, and Adak, a

34-year-old bald eagle who has been a proud resident since 1997.

The Turtle Back Zoo prides itself on its commitment to animal welfare, accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association since 2006. With a focus on education, the zoo offers a variety of programs both on-site and through its outreach team, ensuring that conservation and wildlife education extend beyond the zoo’s gates.

SAFARI MINIGOLF: AN AFRICAN OASIS

After exploring the zoo, head over to the Essex County Safari MiniGolf, located at the corner of Cherry Lane and Northfield Ave. This award-winning 19-hole course, built in 2010, transports visitors to an African oasis. Putt your way through three distinct regions, starting with the Saharan Desert, complete with life-size camels and pyramids. Navigate through the African Grasslands, featuring waterfalls, streams, and tall grasses, before scaling Mt. Kilimanjaro and entering the Congo. Encounter lifelike gorillas and snakes as you make your way to the grand finale: a majestic lion, the symbol of Essex County.

THE WATERFRONT: PLAY AND PADDLE

The Children’s Regatta Playground is a nautical-themed wonderland inspired by the nearby reservoir. With a wave-like rubberized safety surface and boat-inspired play equipment, it’s a haven for kids to let their imaginations run wild. Adjacent to the playground, the Clipper Pavilion picnic area offers a perfect spot for a family lunch, while the paddle boat launch beckons adventurers to take to the water.

For a leisurely stroll, the 1.7-mile Reservoir Walking Path, opened in May 2014, provides scenic views of the Orange Reservoir and connects to several trails throughout South Mountain Reservation. The path is handicap accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

A PERFECT ENDING AT MCLOONE’S BOATHOUSE

As the day winds down, take a short walk to McLoone’s Boathouse for a delightful dinner. Overlooking the serene reservoir, this charming restaurant offers a picturesque setting to relax and recount the day’s adventures. With a diverse menu and warm ambiance, it’s the perfect way to conclude your visit to the South Mountain Recreation Complex.

The South Mountain Recreation Complex in West Orange, NJ, is a vibrant hub of fun and discovery. From the fascinating exhibits at Turtle Back Zoo and the adventurous Safari MiniGolf to the playful Children’s Regatta Playground and serene Reservoir Walking Path, there’s something for everyone. So, pack your bags, gather the kids, and get ready for a day full of excitement and joy at this enchanting destination.

Entry Doors

Roofing

Whether your pup has the obedience of a dog show finalist, or social behavior that makes you want to play dead around others, you can develop more owner confidence with help from this expert trainer.

ARTICLE BY LISA MOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES | STYLED BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

DOG

SOCIALIZING TIPS:

“Socializing your dog is beneficial for both dogs and their owners,” says Taryn Tyler, a certified dog trainer. “It creates confidence for both dogs and owners and displaces the anxiety we feel when our dogs aren’t behaving like we want them to.”

Taryn stresses that teaching a dog to sit or stay is less about tricks and more about the relationship that builds between animal and owner. “We all love our dogs, but they can be stressful when they can’t seem to click in our home environments.

• Socializing is more than taking your dog in public. A guy can dump a bunch of mulch in your driveway and spread it , but he’s not a landscaper until he’s following a plan. When the doorbell rings or a visitor comes into the house, what’s our expectation for the dog? When we’re in public and the dog’s attention is diverted, what’s our plan to refocus them? Socialization is 99 percent working on small steps as part of a larger plan.

• Socializing isn’t about our dogs being the center of attention in public. Everyone loves seeing a dog, but our best outcome for the dog is to go unnoticed. Sitting by our side, ignoring external stimuli, remaining calm—those are things we strive for when socializing a dog.

• When socializing dogs with other dogs, start small. Take a walk with another dog to get them to just exist in the same vicinity. Once they’re able to not be excited by the other dog, work on limited playing in controlled environments.

• If someone comes into your home, let them know what boundaries you’re working on with your dog. You can even suggest asking them to carry a few treats and work on some of the behaviors your dog is already comfortable with.