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The Oranges, NJ April 2026

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Growth in The Oranges

Happy April, The Oranges! After a winter like that, we’ve earned this spring.

The longer days bring more than warmth—they bring momentum. And here in The Oranges, momentum often looks like neighbors investing in one another.

That spirit of giving back sets the tone for this issue. Turn to page 10 for Stronger Together, where we highlight ways residents across Essex County can support local nonprofits, food banks, youth programs and environmental initiatives. From MEND Hunger Relief Network to Family Promise and community libraries, meaningful impact starts close to home. Community strength isn’t accidental—it’s built through small, consistent acts of service.

Our cover story continues that theme of investment through a different lens. Turn to page 14 for Built on Trust, Backed by Results, featuring Robert Northfield. In a competitive real estate market, Northfield has built a market-leading practice rooted in preparation, analysis and long-term strategy. His approach frames real estate not simply as a transaction, but as an investment grounded in education and trust—qualities that matter in any market.

Turn to page 22 for Where Community and Commerce Meet, highlighting the East Orange Community Business Group’s mixer. Through curated networking events and resource-driven programming, EOCBG connects entrepreneurs with tools and partnerships that help small businesses grow. When business owners are supported, the entire community benefits.

Turn to page 28 for Redefining MVP: Tim Tebow’s Life Beyond Football. As you’ll see in our publisher photo above, we met Tebow at our City Lifestyle National Conference, and two lessons stayed with me: choose the one person you believe in, and never let success replace growth. After the best game of his college career, Tebow's coach reviewed the few plays he could have executed better. That mindset—growth over glory—defines excellence. With our daughters watching how we define success, Jake and I are reminded that the greatest returns rarely show up on a scoreboard.

And because investment can also be personal and sensory, turn to page 23 for The Art of Tartare at COVO. Chef Felix Gonzalez’s disciplined, ingredient-driven approach reminds us that excellence comes from intention and attention to detail.

In The Oranges, growth shows up in many forms—service, entrepreneurship, leadership and trust.

Here’s to longer days and stronger communities.

TIFFANY & JAKE SLOWINSKI, PUBLISHERS

@THEORANGES.CITYLIFESTYLE

April 2026

PUBLISHER

Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@citylifestyle.com

CO-PUBLISHER

Tiffany Slowinski | tiffany.slowinski@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Carly Mac Manus | carly.macmanus@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Kristin Kowalewski | Kristin.Kowalewski@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Jessie Fernandez, Rose Balisi

INTERNS

Dina Daluto, Riley Burns | riley.burns@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Crystal Long, Nicholas Xavier Hall

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

South Orange Village Center Alliance, Township of West Orange, Toni's Kitchen, Essex County Parks Department, Canoe Brook Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Arielle Dance, Rich Silivanch, Hotel Seville, W Hoboken, Omni Berkshire

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

Proverbs 3:5-6 Learn

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1-3: 400 spectators braved a snowstorm to witness three highly competitive basketball games at the Patrick School in support of Hoopfest the Scholarship Fund for Inner-City Children. 4: The West Orange High School Thespian Society and Honors Advanced Theatre class crushed it at the NJ Thespian Festival! 5: West Orange High School hosted its 20th Annual Winter Color Guard Invitational, welcoming 25+ color guards from across the tri-state area. 7: West Orange celebrated the retirement of longtime Recreation Director Bill Kehoe.

SCHOLARSHIP
WEST

business monthly

Iron Girl Project Opens Scholarship Applications

Iron Girl Project, Inc. has opened applications for the Alexea G. Karpinski Memorial Scholarship, available to graduating New Jersey high school seniors enrolling full-time in college, technical or vocational programs or the military in 2026. Applications are due April 1, 2026. Since 2022, the nonprofit has awarded 30 scholarships totaling more than $67,000, honoring resilience, character and leadership. For more information visit irongirlproject.org/scholarship

Garden State City Lifestyle Honored With 2025 National Juggernaut Award

Garden State City Lifestyle earned the City Lifestyle Juggernaut Award in 2025, outpacing more than 240 publications nationwide for the highest total contract value across the franchise, a milestone celebrated at the City Lifestyle national conference. The award highlights exceptional sales growth, strong local partnerships and the magazine’s influence in luxury print and digital marketing. Publishers Tiffany and Jake Slowinski are pictured with founders Steven Schowengerdt and Matthew Perry.

Scan to read more

New Trader Joe’s Location in West Orange

West Orange is welcoming a new Trader Joe’s at 457 Mount Pleasant Ave., replacing the former Metropolitan Plant Exchange. The store brings the brand’s popular grocery offerings to the community, adding to the township’s retail options. The location is expected to be a bustling hub for shoppers, reflecting Trader Joe’s continued growth in New Jersey and strong local demand.

Photography by Iron Girl Project
Photography by Trader Joe's
Photography by Garden State City Lifestyle

Stronger Together

Ways to Give Back in Essex County

ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SOUTH ORANGE
VILLAGE CENTER ALLIANCE, TOWNSHIP OF WEST ORANGE, TONI'S KITCHEN, ESSEX COUNTY PARKS DEPARTMENT
Toni’s Kitchen

Community impact starts locally. Across Essex County residents have access to a wide network of nonprofits and service organizations that support families, seniors, students and neighbors in need. Whether you can give time, resources or expertise, there are practical ways to get involved close to home.

Here are several trusted organizations and entry points for giving back.

Fight Food Insecurity Close to Home

Food access remains a pressing need across the region. MEND Hunger Relief Network supports a system of food pantries and soup kitchens across Essex County and welcomes volunteers, food donations and financial contributions. Pantries regularly need shelf-stable foods, toiletries and grocery gift cards.

In South Orange, Our Lady of Sorrows Food Pantry serves local families and relies on volunteers to sort and distribute donations.

CONTINUED >

Toni’s Kitchen
West Orange

Support Housing and Family Stability

Family Promise of Essex County partners with houses of worship and volunteers to provide shelter, meals and case management for families experiencing homelessness. Residents can help by preparing meals, donating supplies or volunteering during host weeks.

Isaiah House provides emergency shelter and social services and often seeks donations of clothing, household goods and volunteer time.

Get Involved With Youth and Education

Students benefit from tutoring and mentorship programs. The Achieve Foundation of South Orange and Maplewood funds educational initiatives, teacher grants and enrichment programs. Volunteers assist with events and fundraising efforts that support local public schools.

Seton Hall University organizes community outreach projects that connect students and residents with local nonprofits for tutoring, service days and neighborhood improvement projects.

South Orange Public Library and West Orange Public Library also offer volunteer opportunities supporting literacy programs, events and youth activities.

Volunteer in Health and Crisis Services

Toni’s Kitchen in Montclair provides meals, groceries and support services with help from volunteers across nearby communities. Support is needed for meal preparation, distribution and logistics.

The American Red Cross New Jersey Region recruits volunteers for disaster response, blood drives and preparedness programs throughout Essex County.

Protect and Improve Local Spaces

Environmental groups also depend on volunteers. South Mountain Conservancy supports the South Mountain Reservation through trail maintenance, cleanup projects and habitat restoration. Residents of all ages can participate.

You do not need a large budget or unlimited time to make a difference. One volunteer shift or one seasonal drive can create meaningful impact.

Support Through Local Giving Networks

The Community FoodBank of New Jersey serves Essex County and offers multiple ways to help, including warehouse volunteering and food drives. Local faith organizations and service clubs, including the Rotary Club of the Oranges, run donation campaigns and service projects throughout the year.

Start Small, Stay Local

You do not need a large budget or unlimited time to make a difference. One volunteer shift or one seasonal drive can create meaningful impact. In The Oranges, giving back remains a core part of community life.

5 WAYS TO GIVE BACK THIS MONTH

No grand gestures required. Start here:

1. Fill a Bag.

2. Drop shelf-stable items at MEND Hunger Relief Network or your local pantry.

3. Sponsor a Meal.

4. Volunteer for one shift at Toni's Kitchen.

5. Tutor for an Hour.

6. Support enrichment programs through The Achieve Foundation.

7. Get Outside.

8. Join a cleanup day with South Mountain Conservancy.

9. Write One Check.

10. Even a small recurring monthly donation creates consistent impact.

Essex County Parks Department

BUILT on TRUST

How Robert Northfield Built a Market-Leading Real Estate Practice—and Why Buyers And Sellers Trust Him

In New Jersey’s highly competitive real estate market, longevity is rare and consistency is even rarer. Trends shift, interest rates fluctuate and inventory ebbs and flows, yet one name has remained at the top for decades: Robert Northfield.

Widely recognized as the No. 1 agent in his area and consistently ranked among the top real estate professionals in the state, Northfield has built a career defined not only by impressive sales volume, but by an ability to guide clients through real estate as an investment—not just a transaction.

Northfield began his real estate career in 1997 at Burgdorff Realtors, developing a foundation rooted in local market knowledge and client service. Over the decades, he has continued to expand his practice, representing buyers and sellers across some of northern New Jersey’s most sought-after communities. In January 2014, Northfield and his team joined Keller Williams Realty, aligning with a firm known for innovation, technology and a forward-thinking, consumer-first approach.

Since then, his trajectory has remained unmistakably upward. Northfield has consistently ranked among New Jersey’s top producers in both sales volume and transactions and has earned national recognition from RealTrends and The Wall Street Journal as one of America’s top real estate professionals. Yet ask Northfield what accomplishment he values most, and he points not to awards, but to the more than 500 five-star reviews from recent clients.

“That feedback matters,” Northfield says. “Real estate decisions are deeply personal and financially significant. Trust is earned one client at a time.”

That trust is built on preparation, analysis and transparency—qualities that resonate strongly with today’s clients. Holding an MBA in finance, Northfield approaches every transaction with an understanding of both market dynamics and individual financial goals. He is not only a residential specialist, but also an active real estate investor himself, advising clients on commercial properties, income-producing assets and long-term real estate portfolio strategies.

For Northfield, successful investing in real estate starts with education. “Whether someone is buying their first home or adding to an investment portfolio, they need to understand how pricing, timing and risk all intersect,” he says. “My role is to help them see the full picture and provide a high degree of client service so they feel supported during every step of the process.”

That philosophy is reflected in the structure of the Robert Northfield Team, which operates as a highly coordinated advisory group rather than a traditional solo practice. Clients benefit from detailed market analysis, strategic pricing recommendations and creative, data-driven marketing plans designed to maximize value. For sellers, the team offers enhanced pre-sale concierge services, including staging guidance and how best to position a property in the market, professional photography and targeted digital exposure—using state-of-the-art tools designed to position a property competitively before it ever reaches the open market.

“Real estate decisions are deeply personal and financially significant. Trust is earned one client at a time.” - Robert Northfield.
Robert Northfield

For buyers and investors, Northfield’s approach is equally methodical. His team conducts in-depth comparative market analyses, evaluates long-term resale potential and helps clients navigate negotiations with confidence. “The goal isn’t just to win a deal,” he explains. “It’s to make sure the numbers make sense—today and five or 10 years from now.”

That perspective has made Northfield a trusted advisor in more complex real estate scenarios as well. From estate sales and relocations to divorce-related transactions and other special situations, his team provides structured guidance and discretion when clients need it most. “These moments are often emotional and time-sensitive,” Northfield says. “Having a clear strategy can ease stress and protect the value of the asset.”

Equally important to his success is an expansive referral network of vetted professionals, including lenders, attorneys, contractors and inspectors. By connecting clients with experienced partners, Northfield ensures that each step of the process— from financing to closing—is handled with efficiency and care.

A longtime resident of Essex County, Northfield has deep roots in the communities he serves, including Maplewood, South Orange, Millburn, Short Hills, Livingston, Montclair, Summit, Chatham and surrounding towns. His hyperlocal expertise allows him to identify neighborhood-level trends that influence pricing and demand—an advantage for clients navigating both residential and investment markets.

“Real estate is local,” Northfield says. “Understanding what a community offers— its schools, infrastructure, development plans and lifestyle—is just as important as understanding the numbers.”

That local knowledge, paired with state-of-the-art marketing and technology, has positioned Northfield as a go-to resource not only for clients, but also for media outlets seeking insight into market conditions. Over the years, he has been featured in print and online publications and television segments, offering commentary on housing trends and buyer behavior.

“Whether someone is buying their first home or adding to an investment portfolio, they need to understand how pricing, timing and risk all intersect.”
- Robert Northfield.

Despite his visibility and success, Northfield remains focused on the fundamentals: relationships, preparation and results. “Markets will change,” he says. “But the principles don’t. If you put your clients first, stay informed and adapt thoughtfully, success follows.”

In an era when real estate can feel increasingly transactional, Robert Northfield’s approach stands apart. It is measured, strategic and rooted in long-term value—qualities that resonate strongly with homeowners and investors alike. For those looking to make smart real estate decisions in a complex market, his track record offers something rare: experience that endures.

Contact information

Robert Northfield

Realtor® | Broker/Salesperson | Team Leader

RobertNorthfield@kw.com

973-761-4100 | 973-544-8001

181 Maplewood Ave., Maplewood, NJ

investing in voice, visibility and community

Meet West Orange’s Dr. Arielle Dance

In a quiet corner of Essex County, where creativity often flourishes between the bustle of suburban life and the hum of nearby city streets, Dr. Arielle Dance is building something powerful—an ecosystem of advocacy, storytelling and community impact shaped by both personal history and a deep commitment to those whose stories often go unheard.

Dance, a writer, scholar and longtime advocate for disability equity, moved to West Orange four years ago. Since then, she has worked on elevating others. “I’ve always been a storyteller,” she explains. “My work is about amplifying voices—to make sure people are seen, valued and understood.”

A LIFE GUIDED BY STORYTELLING

Though her résumé spans academia, nonprofit leadership and national publications, Dance smiles when she says she wishes she could simply introduce herself as “a writer.” Her portfolio suggests much more: a Ph.D., a full-time role with the American Cancer Society, contributions to outlets such as Harvard Business Review, and staff writing for Diversability, where she highlights the lived experiences of disabled individuals across the globe.

Her path to storytelling began long before professional titles. Growing up in Westfield as a left-handed only child, Dance gravitated toward words—collecting stories, observing people and eventually translating those

observations into advocacy. “I’m constantly learning from the people I interview,” she notes. “They are the experts. I just have the privilege of sharing their truth.”

ADVOCACY ROOTED IN LIVED EXPERIENCE

Dance’s work in disability representation is personal. She has invisible disabilities of her own, something she speaks about with both candor and humility. That perspective shapes her writing and her role at Diversability, where she explores issues ranging from workplace accommodations to the intersection of disability and identity from all walks of life.

Her advocacy has also strengthened her impact at the American Cancer Society, where she has worked since 2012—nearly 15 years of mission-driven service sparked, in part, by the death of her grandmother from breast cancer at age 34. “It’s the only place I’ve ever worked,” she shares. “The mission resonated with me from the beginning.”

Dr. Arielle Dance

That mission now includes pushing for better screening access for disabled individuals—a need she encountered repeatedly through her interviews. Stories about patients being unable to receive mammograms or exams because equipment or processes weren’t accessible became a catalyst. “These were things I didn’t even realize were issues until people told me,” she says. “Once you know, you can’t un-know. You want to fix it.”

INVESTING IN COMMUNITY, ONE CONVERSATION AT A TIME

In West Orange, Dance has sought opportunities to contribute locally— though not without discovering gaps she hopes to help close. “I moved here and thought, where is the disability community? How do I get involved?” she recalls.

While navigating local government channels proved more complex than expected, Dance found meaningful connection through nonprofit work. She serves on the board of Partners, a domestic violence organization currently based in Bloomfield. There, she has helped widen conversations around vulnerability and risk—spotlighting the reality that people with disabilities experience relationship abuse.

“It’s about bringing what I’ve learned into every room I’m in,” she emphasizes. “Community is stronger when more people are seen.”

A NEW CHAPTER: WRITING FOR THE NEXT GENERATION

Dance recently entered the world of children’s literature, a genre she once assumed she’d approach with levity—only to discover her debut book carried far deeper emotional weight. Her children’s book, written in poetic form, imagines words of wisdom passed down from a grandparent to a little one. Inspired by the grandmother she never met, Dearest One  became both homage and healing.

“It’s the book I wish I had as a kid,” she says. “Something that felt like my family.”

She now meets with a local group of children’s authors—members of the New Jersey chapter of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. They recently gathered in South Orange for idea swaps, feedback sessions, and camaraderie among creatives who feel deeply the solitary nature of writing. “There were so many people from West Orange in the room,” she shares. “It felt like home.”

Dozens of manuscripts—picture books, poetry, short stories, and a novel exploring her grandmother’s final years—fill her laptop and notebooks. Publication is the dream, but touching just one reader, she says, would be enough.

“If even one person feels seen because of something I wrote, that’s everything.”
- Dr. Arielle Dance

LOOKING AHEAD

When asked what the future holds, Dance laughs at the enormity of the question. “It’s like asking an adult what they want to be when they grow up,” she jokes. Still, she hopes the next few years bring more published work, deeper advocacy impact and continued connection with the community she now calls home.

For West Orange, her presence signifies an investment not just in storytelling—but in empathy, representation and change.

“I just want to create something that reaches someone,” she says. “If even one person feels seen because of something I wrote, that’s everything.”

Where Community and Commerce Meet

Business cards and handshakes share space with conversation and community spirit at events hosted by the East Orange Community Business Group, a nonprofit focused on helping local entrepreneurs grow and connect.

The East Orange Community Business Group, known as EOCBG, operates as a 501(c) (3) organization dedicated to empowering small businesses, founders and community stakeholders across New Jersey. Its approach blends education, partnership and relationship building, creating spaces where business development feels both practical and personal.

Through curated networking events, strategic partnerships and educational programming, EOCBG connects entrepreneurs with funding opportunities, professional resources and collaborators. The organization focuses on closing information gaps and opening doors for businesses at every stage.

“We focus on aligning people with the right resources and relationships,” says Jayda Audrick, founder and president of EOCBG. “When small businesses are connected and informed, they are better positioned to grow and contribute to the local economy.”

That mission is on full display at the group’s signature gatherings, including its second annual Valentine’s Day Mixer, held this year with a focus on connection and collaboration. The event brings together business owners, community leaders and partners for an evening designed to spark conversations and new ideas.

Rather than simple introductions, the mixer emphasizes intentional networking. Attendees exchange insights, learn about local programs and discover service providers who can support their next stage of growth. The tone remains upbeat and welcoming, blending professional purpose with a social, lifestyle feel.

Guests move from conversation to conversation, sharing stories behind their brands, discussing challenges and exploring ways to work together. Organizers say that relaxed, well structured events often lead to the most productive outcomes.

The mixer continues to grow as a signature event for The Oranges and surrounding communities, drawing a cross section of industries and experience levels. From first time founders to established operators, participants gain exposure to tools, contacts and opportunities that extend beyond a single evening.

Audrick says creating the right atmosphere matters just as much as the agenda.

“When the environment feels open and supportive, people show up differently,” Audrick says. “They are more willing to share, collaborate and build something lasting.”

EOCBG plans to expand its calendar with additional mixers, workshops and resource driven programs throughout the year, all aimed at strengthening local businesses and the communities they serve.

The Art of Tartare

A refined balance of richness, brightness, and texture at Covo.

Covo Beef Tartare

A refined take on a classic, Covo’s Beef Tartare balances richness and brightness in every bite. Hand-diced beef is layered with charred red onion marmalade and horseradish crema, then finished with fresh chives, fried capers, cured egg yolk, and pickled mustard seeds for texture and depth.

Ingredients (Per Serving)

• 2½ ounces hand-diced beef

• 1 teaspoon charred red onion marmalade

• 1 tablespoon horseradish crema

• 1 teaspoon fresh chives

• 1 teaspoon pickled mustard seeds

• 5 fried capers

• Grated cured egg yolk, to finish

Preparation

1. Prepare the base: Using a ring mold, gently press the hand-diced beef into an even layer at the center of a chilled plate. Avoid overworking the meat to maintain its delicate texture.

2. Layer the flavor: Spoon the charred red onion marmalade over the top of the beef, spreading lightly to create a thin, even layer.

3. Add creaminess: Place a generous dollop of horseradish crema on top or alongside the tartare for balance and brightness.

4. Finish with texture: Sprinkle fresh chives and pickled mustard seeds evenly over the top. Garnish with fried capers for a crisp, briny contrast. 5. Final touch: Grate cured egg yolk over the tartare just before serving for added richness and depth.

Serve immediately with toasted crostini or house-made crisps.

About Chef Felix Gonzalez

Felix Gonzalez, a New Jersey native, brings a disciplined, ingredient-driven approach to Italian cooking grounded in tradition and craftsmanship.

Trained at The Italian Culinary Academy in Colorno, Italy, and shaped by years with the Charlie Palmer Group in Manhattan, his background blends classical technique with steakhouse precision. Most recently, he served as Chef de Cuisine for Heritage Hospitality Group. At COVO, his cooking centers on scratch preparation, handmade pasta, prime meats, and trusted relationships with local New Jersey farms, simple, honest food executed with intention.

Covo Beef Tartare
Felix Gonzalez

THE ART OF THE STAYCATION

A staycation guide to stylish hotels worth the short trip

New Jersey is one of my favorite places, and I wear the title “Jersey Boy” proudly. Still, there are times when a change of scenery sounds appealing without traveling far. That is where a staycation comes in—a getaway close to home that delivers the benefits of travel without the hassles of airports or long-haul planning. It also offers the chance to enjoy hotel living without the added cost of airfare.

For those ready to plan a nearby escape, here are several triedand-true hotels that make strong staycation options, listed in no particular order.

W HOBOKEN

Located in the heart of Hoboken, W Hoboken sits along the waterfront just across the river from Manhattan’s West Village and Chelsea neighborhoods. Following a recent redesign, the hotel presents a vibrant, contemporary feel from the moment guests enter. Design details include leather-wrapped front desks,

high ceilings and a thoughtfully styled Living Room Bar that channels midcentury modern influences.

The hotel features 223 guest rooms designed for both comfort and style. In-room seating adds a residential feel, and many rooms offer skyline views of New York City. Twenty Superior Suites include upgraded features such as separate living areas and private balconies. Guests looking to maintain a fitness routine can use FIT, the brand’s on-site gym concept, which includes modern cardio and strength-training equipment.

Food and beverage options are extensive. The Living Room operates as a daytime café and evening lounge, serving coffee and light bites during the day and small plates and cocktails at night, including mini lobster rolls and caviar service. On-site dining also includes Halifax, a waterfront restaurant focused on farm-to-table cuisine, and Sushi by Bou, an omakase-style concept with a modern approach.

Address: 225 River St., Hoboken, NJ 07030

XAVIER HALL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HOTEL SEVILLE, W HOBOKEN, OMNI BERKSHIRE
W Hoboken
NYC Skyline from W Hoboken

Getting there: The hotel is about a five-minute walk from Hoboken Terminal, making it easily accessible via NJ Transit for travelers who prefer to leave the car at home.

HOTEL SEVILLE

Hotel Seville is located in Manhattan’s NoMad neighborhood, north of Madison Square Park. Opened in 2025, the Beaux-Arts building blends early 20th-century architecture with modern updates. The lobby bar sets the tone with a refined, residential-inspired design.

Guest rooms are spacious by Manhattan standards, particularly the king rooms. Bathrooms are designed with a spa-like layout and stocked with premium bath products. The 348room property also includes a full gym on the third floor.

The hotel offers three food and beverage venues in addition to room service. Il Bar, located at the entrance, functions as a daytime workspace and transitions into a lively bar scene at night. Scarpetta serves Italian cuisine, including branzino, signature spaghetti and house-made desserts. The Seville, a speakeasy-style lounge in the lower level, features cocktails, music and a late-night atmosphere that draws a younger crowd. Live music is offered on select evenings.

Address: 22 E. 29th St., New York, NY 10016

CONTINUED >

W Hoboken
Hotel Seville

Getting there: From Penn Station, a car service ride takes about 10 minutes. Walking is also an option for light travelers and takes roughly the same amount of time.

OMNI BERKSHIRE PALACE

Omni Berkshire Palace delivers a classic New York hotel experience with updated design elements. Located in Midtown East, the property features traditional architectural details, including marble floors and ornate elevator facades, paired with contemporary finishes. Its central location provides convenient access to restaurants, theaters and major attractions.

Guest rooms match the grandeur of the lobby. King suites offer generous layouts with space for a sitting area and desk, and bathrooms positioned in separate hall-style entries. Many rooms overlook Midtown skyscrapers, reinforcing the sense of being in the center of the city.

The fitness center includes a full range of cardio machines and strength equipment. A nearby outdoor deck with lounge seating offers city views and serves as a relaxing retreat in warmer months. The hotel also features an on-site restaurant serving classic American fare. The restaurant is located on the lower level and provides convenient dining for guests.

Address: 21 E. 52nd St., New York, NY 10022

Getting there: From Penn Station, take the uptown E train from 34 St.-Penn Station to 5 Av./53 St. The trip takes about 13 minutes.

NEARBY ENTERTAINMENT

One advantage of a staycation is exploring neighborhood highlights close to the hotel.

Nicholas X avier Hall

Hoboken

• Waterfront Walkway

• Washington Street

• Elysian Park

NoMad

• Bathhouse

• Madison Square Park

• Madison Square Garden

Midtown East

• Rockefeller Center

• Carnegie Hall

• Central Park

Nicholas Xavier Hall is a travel, fashion and lifestyle journalist exploring the intersection of style, culture and destination. His work has appeared in Women’s Wear Daily, Garden State City Lifestyle and various digital publications, where he spotlights emerging destinations, luxury experiences and the people shaping today’s cultural landscape.

With a background in brand storytelling and community engagement, Hall approaches every assignment with curiosity and a commitment to thoughtful, elevated narrative. Discover more at nicholasxavierhall.com or connect on Instagram at @nicholasxavierhall.

Hotel Seville Omni Berkshire
Omni Berkshire

Redefining MVP: TIM TEBOW’S LIFE BEYOND FOOTBALL

An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.

Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.

A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.

Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?

A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.

Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?

A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.

Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?

A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.

“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”

Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?

A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”

Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.

This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

for the exclusive reveal and more with Tim Tebow unfiltered.
the first time ever, Tim shares the inspiration behind a project he’s been holding close to his heart.
Redefining MVP
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DR. MEETA GREWAL SAYS EARLY, COMPASSIONATE PEDIATRIC DENTAL CARE BUILDS CONFIDENCE, HEALTHY HABITS AND LIFELONG TRUST—STARTING SOONER THAN MOST PARENTS EXPECT.

SMALL SMILES,

BIG MISSION

As a practicing dentist for 17 years, Dr. Meeta Grewal says pediatric dentistry is her life’s calling. It did not begin that way. After graduating in the top 10% of her class at New York University’s College of Dentistry, Grewal began her career as a general dentist. That changed after a high-risk pregnancy with her son reshaped her professional path.

Canoe Brook Pediatric Dentistry

“That experience deepened my love for working with children and inspired me to return for an additional two-year specialty in pediatric dentistry,” Grewal says.

That focus led her to open Canoe Brook Pediatric Dentistry in 2023 after more than a decade practicing in Virginia, New Jersey and New York. Located in Livingston, the practice serves families in Livingston and nearby communities including Short Hills, Millburn, Chatham, Summit, West Orange and Montclair, as well as other towns across Essex and Union counties. Services include infant oral health exams, cleanings, fluoride treatments, tooth-colored fillings, crowns, extractions and emergency care.

Grewal says Essex County was a natural choice for her office location.

“Livingston is a vibrant, family-centered community—and since my own children are growing up here, it felt like the perfect place to establish a practice focused on relationships, prevention and trust,” she says. “I wanted families to walk in and feel like they were stepping into a living room, not a clinical space.”

The office is designed to feel warm and welcoming while incorporating modern dental technology, with an emphasis on reducing anxiety for young patients.

Grewal says investing early in dental care plays a major role in a child’s overall health and confidence.

“Investing in your child’s dental health is investing in their overall well-being and confidence. Pediatric dentistry is really about prevention and coping skills,” she says. “That means regular dental visits starting by age one, daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste and creating positive routines at home.”

Without early preventive care, children are at higher risk for cavities and infections. Grewal says dental problems can also contribute to difficulty eating and speech issues, which may affect development and self-esteem. She adds that baby teeth play an essential role in guiding permanent teeth and should not be overlooked.

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Canoe Brook Pediatric Dentistry Team

Many parents are surprised to learn how early dental visits should begin.

“Sometimes as early as six months old. Early visits are not just about teeth—they’re about building comfort and trust,” Grewal says. “Many people also don’t realize how closely oral health connects with speech and feeding development. We collaborate with speech therapists and lactation consultants to address breastfeeding and speech concerns as part of a whole-child approach.”

She says parents should schedule a dental visit if they notice tooth pain or sensitivity, bleeding gums, visible spots or discoloration, avoidance of chewing or persistent bad breath.

For children who resist brushing, Grewal recommends making the routine more engaging.

“For fussy brushers, consistency and creativity are key: try letting your child pick their toothbrush and toothpaste flavor, play a favorite two-minute song while brushing, use sticker charts or small rewards, or brush together as a family,” she says.

In addition to private practice, Grewal also teaches and mentors future dentists.

“I often say, ‘I liked being a dentist, but I fell in love with being a pediatric dentist.’ My practice is my dream, and teaching is my purpose,” she says. “As associate program director at NYU Langone’s pediatric residency program, I mentor future pediatric dentists. The combination of private practice and teaching makes me a better doctor and mentor every day.”

For more information, visit canoebrookpediatricdentistry.com

events

THROUGHOUT APRIL

Paper Mill Playhouse: 1776

22 Brookside Drive, Millburn, NJ 07041

The Tony Award-winning Paper Mill Playhouse presents “1776,” a Broadway musical about the events leading to the Declaration of Independence. The production features a classic score and updated staging. Ticket information and showtimes at papermill.org.

APRIL 3RD

Deon Cole at NJPAC

1 Center St., Newark, NJ 07102 | 8:00 PM

Comedian and actor Deon Cole brings his observational humor to Prudential Hall. Known for his role on “Black-ish,” Cole performs an evening of new material. Ticket details available at njpac.org

APRIL 9TH

Brubeck Brothers Quartet

1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, NJ 07079 | 7:30 PM

Experience the jazz legacy of Dave Brubeck through a live performance blending classic and contemporary styles in a family-friendly setting. Performer details available on the calendar at sopacnow.org

APRIL 11TH - 19TH

Essex County Cherry Blossom Festival

Branch Brook Park, Newark, NJ 07104 | 7:00 AM

Celebrate peak bloom season at Branch Brook Park. This festival features family activities, cultural demonstrations and live entertainment. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the blooming trees throughout the park. For a full schedule of events, visit essexcountyparks.org.

APRIL 18TH

Essex County One-Mile Fun Run

Branch Brook Park, Newark, NJ 07104 | 10:00 AM

Part of the Cherry Blossom Festival, this run invites participants of all ages to enjoy a scenic course among blooming trees. Runners are welcome to take part in festival activities after the race. Registration details available at essexcountyparks.org.

APRIL 26TH

Turtle Back Zoo: Behind-the-Scenes Tours

560 Northfield Ave., West Orange, NJ 07052 | 2:00 PM

Go beyond the exhibits with a guided tour offering a closer look at animal care and conservation efforts. Advance registration is required. Learn more about animal habitats at turtlebackzoo.com

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