October 2020
An exclusive magazine serving the residents of Chatham, New Jersey
www.ChathamLivingNJ.com
3rd Anniversary Issue! December 2019 January 2020
November 2019
February 2020
An exclusive magazine serving the residents of Chatham, New
An exclusive magazine serving Jersey the residents of Chatham, New
www.ChathamLivingNJ.com
ine serving An exclusive magaz Jersey Chatham, New the residents of
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An exclusive magaz ine serving the residents of Chatham, New Jersey
www.ChathamLivingNJ.com
www.ChathamLiv ingNJ.com
Meet the Napolitanos and Mejias
ingNJ.com www.ChathamLiv
Chatham’s Renaissance Family:
The Kaplans
All in the Family at Hickory Tree Deli
'Briens: Still a
Meet the Klein/O
Doing Great Thin gs for our Com munities’ Teens: The Madison Cha tham Coalition
Family
Cover photo by Christine Loy Photography Cover photo by
Cover photo by Alex Kaplan Photography
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Christine Loy Photogra November 2019
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Cover photo by Christine Loy Photogra phy February 2020 |
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April 2020 May 2020 March 2020 June 2020
An exclusive magazine serving the residents of Chatham, New
An exclusive magazine serving Jersey the residents of Chatham, New
www.ChathamLivingNJ.com
ine serving An exclusive magaz Jersey Chatham, New the residents of
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www.ChathamLivingNJ.com
An exclusive magaz ine serving the residents of Chatham, New Jersey
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Creativity, talent, lots of ambition and big dreams: Tess Higgins
Congratulation
2020! s, Class of
Chatham CommUNITY
ng Back: It's All About Givi Zalis Families the Davis and
“Let There Be Light” at Sunset Lake, Chatham Township, April 1.
at Cover photo by Bob Higgins Madison Mud in Madison, NJ April 2020 | 1
Photo by Paul Heitlinger
Cover photo by phy Christine Loy Photogra
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Drone photo provided by Chatham High School June 2020 | 1
August 2020
July 2020
September 2020
An exclusive magazine serving the residents of Chatham, New Jersey
An exclusive magaz ine serving the residents of Chatham, New Jersey
www.ChathamLivingNJ.com
ine serving An exclusive magaz Jersey Chatham, New the residents of
www.ChathamLiv ingNJ.com
ingNJ.com www.ChathamLiv
A Hidden Gem: munity Garden Chatham Com
Promoting Love and Support with “Keep Chatham Thriving”
Meet the Khawand Family of Fleur de Sel
Keeping Chatham Thriving Cover photo by Christine Loy Photography
Cover photos by
ty Garden
Chatham Communi
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Cover photo by Christine Loy Photogra phy September 2020
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Cover photos by Christine Loy Photography, Alex Kaplan Photography, Bob Higgins, Paul Heitlinger, Chatham High School drone and Chatham Community Garden.
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2 | Chatham Living
Dear Residents, It's Chatham Living's 3rd anniversary! In case you missed an issue, we give you a snapshot of each wonderful family, business or organization that was featured during the last 12 months starting on page 6. As always, we're immensely grateful to all who have shared their beautiful stories. And we look forward to featuring more!
Publication Team
Publisher: John White Content Coordinator: Stacey McEvoy Designer: Tom Zielinski Contributing Photography: Christine Loy www.christineloyphotography.com christineloyphotography@gmail.com
Advertising
Contact: John White Email: jwhite@bestversionmedia.com Phone: 973-964-6446
Feedback/Ideas/Submissions:
Have feedback, ideas or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 25th of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas and photos to: smcevoy@bestversionmedia.com.
Important Phone Numbers:
Chatham Emergency Squad 973-377-1131 Chatham Borough Police Department 973-635-8000 Chatham Township Police Department 973-377-0100 Chatham Borough Fire Department 973-635-9090 Chatham Township Volunteer Fire Department 973-377-0100 Green Village Fire Department 973-377-7073 Chatham Borough Hall 973-635-0674 Chatham Township Municipal Building 973-635-4600 School District of the Chathams 973-457-2500 Library of the Chathams 973-635-0603 Senior Services Center of the Chathams 973-635-4565/4556 Board of Health (Madison Health Department) 973-593-3079 Chatham Borough Recreation Coordinator 973-635-7066 Chatham Township Recreation Coordinator 973-635-3201
Content Submission Deadlines: Content Due: November 25 December 25 January 25 February 25 March 25 April 25 May 25 June 25 July 25 August 25 September 25 October 25
Edition Date: January February March April May June July August September October November December
On page 12, our academic expert contributor Rick Michalak of Breakaway Prep offers advice to navigate the academic year and provides parents and the 2021 graduating class with some things to think about with regard to "SAT/ACT test optional." Maintaining your own health is bigger than just you. There are people in your life--family and friends--that are relying on YOU to take care of you. So don't accept pain or give up on making movement part of your daily life. That's the message that our physical therapy expert contributor Matthew Riordan of Professional Physical Therapy wants you to know. Turn to page 15 to read, "Don't do it for you." Read about an impressive recent Chatham High School graduate who was awarded the Christine K. Grobert Chatham Emergency Squad scholarship of 2020. Rachel Koury, a first year student at Syracuse University, was selected from a pool of highly qualified applicants. In addition to her stellar grades and her active participation in various extra-curricular activities while attending Chatham High School, Koury’s application stood out because of her commitment to the Adler Aphasia Center, where she helps adults with aphasia engage in conversation and activities. Read all about it on page 13. Be sure to check out the furry friends available for adoption at St. Hubert's on page 18. They're ready for their fur-ever homes. Happy Halloween! Stacey and John
Stacey McEvoy, Content Coordinator
John White, Publisher
Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2020 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.
October 2020 | 3
EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS
To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact John White at jwhite@bestversionmedia.com or 973-964-6446. ACUPUNCTURE Morgan Reade, NJ Advanced Acupuncture Downtown Madison 6 Green Village Road, Madison, NJ 201-400-2261 www.njadvancedacupuncture.com
Morgan Reade L.Ac., M.S. Morgan is Board Certified through NCCAOM (National Commission for the Certification of Acupuncturists and Oriental Medicine). As a practicing Acupuncture Physician he perfected his acupuncture skills on a broad spectrum of patients including sports injuries, autoimmune thyroid, digestive and infertility. He is dedicated to the preservation and advancement of the art, science and practice of Oriental Medicine in an ethical manner, enhancing the health and well-being of the general public and his patients.
®
CARPET & FLOORING Dianne Grossman The Carpet Girl 1 Cornell Pkwy, Springfield Township, NJ 973-218-1155 • dianne@thecarpetgirl.com www.thecarpetgirl.com
Whether we come to your home, meet in a convenient location for you, or you come to our Springfield, NJ showroom, we help you find high-quality flooring that fits your lifestyle at prices that fit your budget.
COMMUNITY WELLNESS Madison Area YMCA Family Center 111 Kings Road, Madison, NJ 07940 973-822-YMCA (9622) www.madisonareaymca.org marketing@madisonymca.org The Madison Area YMCA is a nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. With quality programs that develop a healthy spirit, mind and body at any age, we believe everyone, regardless of age, income or background, should have the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.
4 | Chatham Living
EDUCATION Breakaway Prep Test Prep & College Admissions Rick Michalak, Owner 268 Green Village Rd, Suite 2, Downstairs, Chatham, NJ and 18 Bank St. Downstairs, Summit, NJ 07901 973-457-1150 • rickm@breakawayprep.com breakawayprep.com We are a collective of top-notch teachers and counselors who have all have spent more time than we should admit with SATs, ACTs, Subject tests, college essays, college lists: You name it, we’ve worked with it. We offer one of the most deeply resourced and experienced teams in the world of test prep and college admissions.
FAMILY DENTISTRY Dr. Jacqueline S. Reid DDS 390 Main Street, Chatham, NJ 973-635-9456 www.jacquelinesreiddds.com Since 1998 our office has proudly provided high quality dentistry in Chatham and surrounding areas. Services include all aspects of modern dentistry as well implant restorations and prosthetics, cosmetic restorations. Dr. Reid is on staff at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital as director of the dental residency training program.
FUNERAL DIRECTOR Madison Memorial Home 159 Main Street, Madison, NJ 07940 973-377-2735 Doug Loikith, Mgr. NJ Lic. 4560 • madisonmemorialhome.com Since 1948 our mission has not changed - providing your family with the highest quality care and service, and taking responsibility to lighten your burden as you take the first steps toward healing and recovery. We are committed to the trust and confidence of the community we serve, and to maintaining the reputation that the Madison Memorial Home has established for excellence and honesty.
KITCHEN & BATH RENOVATIONS Alan Archuleta, Archuleta Builders 973.986.6656 alan@archuletabuilders.com https://archuletabuilders.com/ Whether you are a homeowner, architect or real estate investor, finding the right contractor is key to the quality and success of your home renovation project. With attention to detail and a stylized eye, Alan Archuleta has his name on every home renovation project his team undertakes.
Law Offices of Rosemary Stone-Dougherty A Limited Liability Company
LEGAL REAL ESTATE Rosemary Stone-Dougherty, Esq. NJ & FL Bar Member 54 Main Street, Chatham, NJ 973-635-0300
rsdlawfirm@aol.com • www.rsdlawfirm.org Legal Services offered: • Real Estate Purchases/Sales • Estate Planning • Refinancesoffers exceptional Based in Chatham, Rosemary proudly • Landlord/Tenant Disputes • Land Use/Variance Applications • Probate• Collection
legal assistance for your real estate transactions. To Rosemary, the key to success is keeping 973-635-0300 • 54 Main Chatham, NJ 07928 you informed and St., educated, while protecting you as you move forward www.rsdlawfirm.org rsdlawfirm@aol.com through the legal•processes of buying, selling, or making improvements to your home.
PHYSICAL THERAPY Matthew Riordan Professional Physical Therapy & Training 111 Kings Road, Madison, NJ 973-270-7417 matthew@professionalptandtraining.com Matthew Riordan holds a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Rutgers University. He is the founder of Professional Physical Therapy & Training and has been conveniently located within the Madison and Summit Area YMCAs for more than 14 years. Matthew and his staff of Board Certified Specialist in Orthopedic Physical Therapy provide One-on-One specialized treatments to help people prevent as well as recover from musculoskeletal injuries and surgeries. He and his staff are also active members in the community.
REAL ESTATE Marianne Slamm, ABR, SRES Sales Associate Keller Williams Premier Properties marianneslamm@gmail.com www.Marianne-Slamm.kw.com M - 973-216-1912 Chatham has been my home for 25+ years. As your local agent, I’d welcome the opportunity to help you, your family and friends fulfill their dreams of buying, selling or investing in real estate in Chatham and the nearby towns.
LEGAL: DIVORCE MEDIATION AND LITIGATION Phyllis S. Klein, Esq. and Stephanie Frangos Hagan, Esq. Donahue, Hagan, Klein & Weisberg, LLC 44 Whippany Road, Morristown, NJ (973) 467-5556 pklein@dhkwlaw.com and shagan@dhkwlaw.com www.dhkwlaw.com Legal disputes involving marriage and children are among the most difficult situations a family can face. Phyllis Klein and Stephanie Hagan have been practicing family law for over 30 years. Their goal is to help clients through this challenging experience with compassion and understanding- advocating for favorable resolution through negotiation or mediation whenever possible, but always with total preparation to litigate successfully, if necessary.
NURSING HOME Garden Terrace Nursing Home 361 Main Street, Chatham, NJ 973-635-0899 info@gardenterracenursinghome.com www.gardenterracenursinghome.com Garden Terrace has been family owned and operated for over five decades by the Flemming family. We are a private, thirty bed, skilled nursing facility that specializes in long term care for individuals with cognitive and/or physical limitations.
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October 2020 | 5
IT'S CHATHAM LIVING MAGAZINE'S 3RD ANNIVERSARY! By Stacey McEvoy
For our 3rd anniversary, we did a round-up of our cover features. Thank you to all who shared their stories with us so that we could bring them to our community. We are truly grateful.
The Kaplan family
The Klein/O’Brien family
The November issue brought a story about love, compromise and respect with the Klein/O'Brien family. Although Phyllis Klein and Brendan O'Brien are divorced, they are still a family with their sons Sam and Tristan. It’s a family arrangement that is nothing short of admirable.
Lou Napolitano and his daughter Stephanie Mejia
Forty-three years ago when Lou and Joann Napolitano were 23 years old, they opened Chatham Township's beloved Hickory Tree Deli. It's all in the family--10 years ago, their daughter Stephanie and her husband John Mejia made a career change and joined the family business. The December issue featured the families of Hickory Tree Deli. Stop at the deli for their renowned Sloppy Joe and famous coleslaw, both old family recipes! 6 | Chatham Living
The Kaplan family is one of those renaissance families in Chatham that has an abundance of talent in a myriad of areas. In the January issue, we shared the incredible talents of each member of the family and included the release of Jennifer Kaplan’s debut children’s novel Crushing the Red Flowers, an historical fiction novel for children aged 10-14 in 5th 8th grade.
At Bottle King during Sticker Shock Campaign, an initiative by the Madison Chatham Coalition to crack down on underage drinking. Participants put stickers on cases of alcohol to encourage adults to “keep it legal.”
Doing great things for our communities’ teens: The Madison Chatham Coalition (MCC). Substance use and mental health can be challenging topics to discuss with teens--but there's an organization in our community that's helping parents and their teens keep the discussion going and the channels of communication open.The February issue featured the work that MCC volunteers do to keep our kids safe from substance use.
Jeff Davis working on the chevron stripes of a Chatham Borough firetruck.
It's all about giving back to the community for the Davis and Zalis families--and give back they do! Our March cover story shared how Jeff and Deborah Davis, owners of Specialized Auto Craft in Chatham Borough, and their daughter Amanda and son-in-law Jeff, volunteer their time and services in the community. As Jeff Davis says, “Everyone should be aware that the town always needs volunteers. It’s what I call ‘giving back. This is ‘small town’—this is what you do.”
We would like to thank Salerno Duane Inc. in Summit for bringing you this month’s cover story.
Tess Higgins
Filled with an abundance of creativity and talent, lots of ambition and big dreams, 15-year-old Tess Higgins has been creating things for as long as she can remember. This entrepreneurial teen who sells her handmade pottery, candles, jewelry and t-shirts at Chatham's downtown business Purple Aardvark was spotlighted in the April issue. Tess is a Chatham teen to watch.
We would like to thank Salerno Duane Inc. in Summit for bringing you this month’s cover story.
October 2020 | 7
On the edge of town, tucked away down a long narrow driveway surrounded by woods, you will find Chatham’s best kept secret, The Chatham Community Garden, which was featured in the July issue. This sanctuary is where 75 families go to escape the hustle and bustle, enjoy some peace and quiet, and tend to their individual plots to grow vegetables during the spring, summer and fall months.
Liz Bernich of FLAG with her family.
Social distancing, washing our hands constantly, wearing masks, school from home and working from home became our new normal in early spring when the coronavirus changed our lives. It blossomed into stories of kindness, determination, courage, selflessness and love. Chatham residents started doing amazing things. The May issue showcased the Chatham CommUNITY at its finest. Liz Bernich started FLAG (Front Line Appreciation Group), which became a nationwide movement, to support local restaurants and keep the front line fueled. Volunteers with sewing skills began making masks for healthcare workers and the community.
Chatham Community Garden
The June issue presented the graduates of the Chatham High School Class of 2020.Graduating during the pandemic brought challenges, but the 315 graduates handled it with strength and resilience. Surely, a graduation that will never be forgotten. Nine seniors wrote thoughtful reflections about their time at Chatham High School that were included in the commemoration.
Chatham High School Class of 2020
8 | Chatham Living
MJ Morgan and Michelle Lease of Keep Chatham Thriving
KeepChathamThriving.com was featured in the August issue. When the COVID-19 pandemic ground the Chatham business community to a halt in March, MJ Morgan started putting together a Chatham restaurant list and Michelle Lease started putting together a Chatham merchant list—unbeknownst to each other—to lend their expertise and help the local businesses navigate the unprecedented whirlwind of uncertainty that would lie ahead.When the two discovered they were working independently toward the same goal, they got together and channeled their resources, energies and love of Chatham.
The Khawand family
The September issue featured the Khawand family of Fleur de Sel. If you haven’t been to France for an authentic croissant, don’t feel like you’re missing out. Fleur de Sel Patisserie and Bistro, Chatham’s most recent Main Street addition, has butter, almond, chocolate, cheese and zaa’tar croissants that will transport you to a bistro table with a lavender bouquet in a French café before the first bite melts in your mouth.
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SUCCESS! LIBRARY OF THE CHATHAMS "1,000 MASK CHALLENGE"
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Contributed by Salli McMorrow, Friends of the Library of The Chathams hen Chatham faced the coronavirus pandemic in March, The Friends of the Library of the Chathams launched its “1,000 Masks Challenge,” an idea proposed by Library Director Karen Brodsky, which entailed building kits to make the masks. Each kit contained a mask design and instructions, with fabric, spools of thread and elastic for 24 masks and a special reusable “Library of the Chathams” tote bag provided by ECLC Pride to put them in for return. Members of the Friends, including Maureen Kelly, Susan Tackaberry, Debbie Fabian, library employees Nellie Brogan, Sandra Echeverri and Cathy Prince, Chatham resident Marla Osinski and Alexandra and Fernando Falcone of Colony Cleaners cut the lengths of fabric needed. Sue Hoag, president of the Friends, sent a notice out that volunteers were needed to help sew the masks. One hundred fifteen people stepped forward and the “1,000 Masks Challenge” was launched. When the kits were finished, more Friends including Phyllis and Kent Stevens and Betsy Maltby delivered them to the volunteer mask makers. Cynthia Merwin and Sue Hoag picked up the finished kits and took them to the Chatham Emergency Squad for distribution. The number of kits made by Chatham Borough and Chatham Township residents who volunteered for this worthwhile program was overwhelming. For example, Jun Quon made
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
October Publisher's Note: This month we're spotlighting an array of live and virtual events happening here in NJ and beyond. Please remember to always check ahead to see if events will be held live or online only. VISIT THE CHATHAM FARMERS' MARKET at the Chatham Train Station parking lot every Saturday 8 am-1 pm. KEEP CHATHAM THRIVING!
Order takeout! Follow a business on Instagram and Facebook! Pick up a special gift for a friend. There are so many ways that you and your family can support the business community of Chatham. THE LIBRARY OF THE CHATHAMS has library take-out available, 24/7 online access and virtual offerings. Visit www.chathamlibrary.org. HEAD OUT ON A HIKE
Plan an easy hike or something heart-racing for you and your family. This site makes it easy to plan a route that works for you. https://www.nynjtc.org/ 10 | Chatham Living
500 kits, Peggy Melvin made 500, Elizabeth Stewart made 226, Alexander Falcone made 208, Marla Osinski made 170, Maria Brunetta made 146, Sandra Highway made 144, Nancy Foxon made 144, Linda Harter made 120 and Virginie Aris made 120. Jun Quon and Peggy Melvin made some kits in children’s sizes which included 40 masks per kit. Some volunteers returned for their fourth and fifth kits. A total of 5,900 masks were made between March 29 and Aug. 7. Masks were were given to the Chatham Emergency Squad to distribute to nurses at Morristown and Overlook Hospitals, the Chatham Borough Police Department, Chatham Borough Department of Public Works, Chatham Borough Municipal Offices, Chatham Township Department of Public Works, Chatham Township Municipal Offices, Chatham Township Fire Department, Green Village Fire Department, Bloomfield Department of Health (serving Chatham Township), Westfield Department of Health (serving Chatham Borough), Garden Terrace Nursing Home, Chatham Hills Sub-Acute Care, Sunrise of Madison Senior Living Center, Sunrise of Florham Park Senior Living Center and the School District of the Chathams (maintenance staff). The Friends of the Library of the Chathams extend a warm and heartfelt thanks to all the wonderfully supportive people who volunteered and helped with this important program. The “1,000 Masks Challenge” was a complete success.
WRITE SOMETHING
Arts by the People has moved its programming online. Check out their website for opportunities to read and listen to your work and the work of other writers. Bonus: Email your work to rbarry@bestversionmedia.com and we might print it in a future issue. https://www.artsbythepeople.org/event-poss KEEP MOVING WITH THE MADISON AREA YMCA
The Y is offering member-only outdoor group exercise classes-visit the website to register. Virtual group exercise classes are also streamed live. https://www.madisonareaymca.org/
LATEST CHATHAM HOME SALES STATS FROM THE SPELKER REAL ESTATE TEAM TOWN
ADDRESS
LIST PRICE
SALES PRICE
DAYS ON MARKET
TOWN
ADDRESS
LIST PRICE
SALES PRICE
DAYS ON MARKET
CHATHAM BORO CHATHAM BORO CHATHAM BORO CHATHAM BORO CHATHAM BORO CHATHAM BORO CHATHAM BORO CHATHAM BORO CHATHAM BORO CHATHAM BORO CHATHAM BORO CHATHAM BORO CHATHAM BORO CHATHAM BORO CHATHAM TWP. CHATHAM TWP. CHATHAM TWP. CHATHAM TWP. CHATHAM TWP. CHATHAM TWP. CHATHAM TWP. CHATHAM TWP. CHATHAM TWP. CHATHAM TWP. CHATHAM TWP. CHATHAM TWP. CHATHAM TWP. CHATHAM TWP. CHATHAM TWP.
8 KIMBALL ST 58 GARDEN AVE 53 HIGHLAND AVE 115 FAIRMOUNT AVE 5 JOHN ST 9 EDGEHILL AVE 70 GARDEN AVE 74 HIGHLAND AVE 20 KIMBALL ST 27 ELLERS DR 47 ELMWOOD AVE 40 HIGHLAND AVE 70 WASHINGTON AVE 75 CHANDLER RD 25 DRIFTWAY 9 MOUNTAINVIEW RD 40 PINE ST 6 GLENMERE DR 5 JENSEN CT 55 LINDEN LN 105 SUNSET DR 45 SCHOOL AVE 115 LONG VIEW AVE 19 THORNLEY DR 19 CRESTWOOD DR 25 DALE DR 17 ROLLING HILL DR 9 SYCAMORE DR 84 MAY DR
$1,225,000 $1,249,000 $1,295,000 $1,299,000 $1,325,000 $1,334,900 $1,349,000 $1,349,000 $1,429,900 $1,485,000 $1,600,000 $1,795,000 $1,799,000 $1,899,000 $1,695,000 $1,699,000 $1,800,000 $1,849,000 $1,899,000 $1,999,999 $2,195,000 $2,250,000 $2,299,000 $2,399,000 $2,425,000 $2,799,000 $2,799,000 $2,850,000 $3,099,000
$1,160,000 $1,150,000 $1,325,000 $1,225,000 $1,365,000 $1,285,000 $1,320,000 $1,324,500 $1,429,000 $1,430,000 $1,525,000 $1,745,000 $1,774,000 $1,940,000 $1,625,000 $1,600,000 $1,952,000 $1,800,000 $1,810,000 $1,890,000 $1,970,000 $2,150,000 $2,146,250 $2,300,000 $2,372,500 $2,724,500 $2,740,000 $2,500,000 $3,030,000
89 104 8 163 7 63 133 22 0 97 15 0 97 10 119 84 0 246 109 30 73 12 69 71 25 154 134 127 154
Market Data as per Garden State Multiple Listing Service Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. The data does not represent the listings of any one agent or agency but represents the activity of the entire real estate community in the area. Any real estate agent’s ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.
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EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR
NAVIGATING THE ACADEMIC YEAR AND TALKING ABOUT TEST OPTIONAL FOR SAT/ACT
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Contributed by Rick Michalak, Breakaway Prep
new school year is here and...it is starting to look a lot like the last school year. Some districts went all virtual starting from day one while others are testing the waters doing some live instruction and some online.
Having had three of my own children go through the Chatham schools, I can only imagine how disorienting this must be for all of you parents. Here are some thoughts about how you (moms and dads) can help your children through the school year no matter how the year progresses. Classes are not as effective when done on Zoom or Google as they are face-to-face. If you see your child struggling with their work because the instruction is not as rigorous as it was, get them some help. There are tutors who can help with any subject at any level. They can help your child get back on track, sometimes with just a session or two. And let’s face it, your child may respond better to someone from outside your home than to someone in your home. Plus you probably would
prefer not to have to dust off that algebra or science or English textbook given that you just had a long day yourself. If extra-curricular activities are canceled, particularly at the high school level, think about what your child might do instead. Colleges want to know that when confronted with challenges (in the case of COVID-19 - extraordinary challenges), that your child met them head on and survived, or even thrived. Did they read more? Start a small business? Volunteer their time to help others? In other words, what did they do with the extra time they had on their hands? What they did during the pandemic can be a total game changer for them...if they play their cards right. Test optional. Most colleges have gone test optional for the class of 2021. What does that mean? For most Chatham students, it could be a great thing. If you are a good, to very good student, and you can get in to take the SAT or ACT, it could set you apart from a lot of other applicants. When students hear that a school is test optional, some think, “That’s great! I don’t have to take the test.” But here’s the thing - if you can take one of these tests and do well on it, it could go a long way towards getting you into the schools you have long considered “reach” schools. While everyone loves to trash talk the tests, guess what they do in a time like this? They fill in the blanks for admission offices. They can be the one thing that allows an admissions officer to understand the rigor of a student’s education. No one was happy with the way things worked in the spring. Some classes were no more than file dumps on the kids. A good test score can show that the academic ability is there even if the course work is called into question. So while it is an incredibly challenging time for all of us, it can be a great opportunity for your child to distinguish themselves from other students if they use this time to their advantage. One final thought...I have been in this business in some capacity for some 30 plus years. Because foreign students are either being prevented from coming to the US to go to school here, or because they are deciding not to come to the US because COVID-19 is raging, there has never been a better time for a Chatham student to apply to college. Colleges are hurting financially - some will never recover from this and will be forced to close. Even the top schools are doing more fundraising than ever before because their revenues have fallen sharply. Work hard in school, do well on the SAT/ACT, and go for it - apply to those schools you’ve dreamed about. Your chances are arguably as good as they have been in decades.
12 | Chatham Living
CHATHAM HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE RACHEL KOURY RECEIVES THE CHRISTINE K. GROBERT CHATHAM EMERGENCY SQUAD SCHOLARSHIP AWARD
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Contributed by Chatham Emergency Squad
he Chatham Emergency Squad is pleased to announce that it has selected recent Chatham High School graduate Rachel Koury as its 2020 recipient of the Squad’s annual scholarship award.
Established in 2014 by Christine Grobert, a teacher at Lafayette School, while serving as president of the Chatham Emergency Squad (2014, 2015), this annual award is presented to a Chatham High School student who has been committed to volunteerism and/or has displayed an interest in the field of medicine or science. In 2020, the name for this scholarship was officially renamed in honor of Christine Grobert’s 21 years of dedicated service to the Chatham Emergency Squad, where she held numerous positions. Koury, who recently graduated from Chatham High School and is continuing her education at Syracuse University where she hopes to become a speech-language pathologist, was selected from a pool of highly qualified applicants. In addition to her stellar grades and her active participation in various extra-curricular activities while attending Chatham High School, Koury’s application stood out because of her commitment to the Adler Aphasia Center, where she helps adults with aphasia engage in conversation and activities. Aphasia is the impairment of language, affecting the production or comprehension of speech and the ability to read or write. It is caused by brain damage, such as a stroke, head trauma, brain tumors or infections and affects nearly 2 million people according to the National Aphasia Association. For Rachel, aphasia is highly personal. Ten years ago, the Chatham Emergency Squad came to her house to assist her mother who suffered a stroke. Sadly, her mother never fully recovered and continues to struggle to communicate to this day. Her mother receives the help of a speech pathologist and the constant love and support of Rachel, her brother and her father, who is continually seeking new therapies to aid in her mother’s recovery. Her mother’s debilitating stroke clearly defined Rachel’s childhood, but it didn’t stop her from succeeding in school and
Christine Grobert, Evan Skinner (President, Chatham Emergency Squad) and Christine K. Grobert scholarship winner Rachel Koury.
beyond. At the Adler Aphasia Center, Rachel channeled her energy by spearheading an online program “Teens Connecting with Teens,” an online portal filled with content to help teenagers who have loved ones affected by aphasia. “Following my mother’s stroke, I became her voice; often explaining to my peers, as well as adults, what happened when they see her in a wheelchair, unable to speak,” said Koury. “With the online content, teens from all over the world can access the information they need in order to support loved ones with aphasia. It also connects teenagers with others for ongoing support and answers to questions they may have,” she added. In 2019, Koury’s initiative was recognized unanimously by the New Jersey State Legislature for its promotion of aphasia awareness. “Rachel faced tremendous hardships growing up, and it defined her in the best possible way,” said Chatham Emergency Squad President Evan Skinner. “Her love for her mother didn’t stop there - she found a way to help others who needed resources and a place to turn to when dealing with loved ones affected by this debilitating condition. For this reason and more, we are thrilled to name Rachel Koury the 2020 recipient of the Christine K. Grobert Chatham Emergency Squad Scholarship Award.” About The Chatham Emergency Squad The Chatham Emergency Squad is an all-volunteer organization funded nearly exclusively by donations. In 2019 the Chatham Emergency Squad responded to 1246 emergency calls in Chatham Township and Chatham Borough and provided mutual aid to neighboring communities of New Vernon, Madison and Summit on occasion. Chatham Emergency Squad never charges for its services. The Squad provides stand-by support for community events, such as the Chatham Turkey Trot, Fishawack, and school athletic events. The Squad also provided free CPR training to more than 400 residents, teachers, coaches, school crossing guards and emergency personnel, including fire and police. To learn more, to donate or to volunteer, please visit www.chathamemergencysquad.org.
October 2020 | 13
ART LEAGUE OF THE CHATHAMS: THE MURALS IN THE CHATHAM TOWNSHIP MUNICIPAL BUILDING
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Contributed by Ann Frommer, Art League of the Chathams
ave you walked through the main entrance of the Chatham Township Municipal Building and looked at the murals on the walls? Did you wonder who painted them and what they represent?
They represent seasons of the Great Swamp: Spring-Summer on the left as you enter, Autumn under the railing and Winter on the right. Included, is a mosaic of an eagle perched upon the nearby pole. In 2010, the Art League of the Chathams (ALC) President Gail Logan accepted a request from former Chatham Township Mayor Nicole Hagner for the ALC to paint a mural representing seasons of the Great Swamp. Artists who painted the murals were: Ed Schuh (spring/summer scene), Celeste Fondaco, (autumn scene), Rosemary Howlett (winter scene), and Frank McDonough (mosaic hawk). More than 500 hours of work was spent on the works of art. Later on that year, the ALC was awarded the Morris County Arts Award. The Art League of the Chathams was founded in October 1988 by Alice Lundt, a former Chatham Township administrator, who decided that the empty walls of the newly converted building needed some art. She contacted her artist-teacher friend Janet Glover who got in touch with other artists in the Township. Eventually, a ”league” was formed; it was called the Chatham Township Art League. Janet Glover became the first president of the League. The mission was to bring artists from the town together, to encourage and support each other in their art, and offer a permanent location to show their artwork in the municipal building all year round. The first exhibit to adorn the walls contained a handful of art from the artists/members. Today, there is a display of 80 – 100 pieces. Under ALC President Rosemary Howlett, the two Chathams merged their artists’ talents to become the Art League of the Chathams or ALC. Later, the ALC voted to also include artists from nearby towns. At about the same time, an art scholarship program was formed and began annually to present an award to a graduating Chatham High School senior majoring in or with
"Great Swamp Spring-Summer Scene" by Watercolorist Ed Schuh. 14 | Chatham Living
"Great Swamp Winter Scene" by Watercolorist and Chinese Brush Expert Rosemary Howlett.
an interest in the field of art. Monies for the scholarship come from member dues, proceeds from the galas and contributions. In 1990, the hall in the ramp area was designated as the LundtGlover Gallery. This became a place for ALC member artists to display their art in a solo show, free of charge during the member art shows. For more information, visit the ALC website at www.artleagueofthechathams.org.
DON’T DO IT FOR YOURSELF…
EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR
Contributed by Matthew Riordan, Professional Physical Therapy & Training
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realize that you may have already accepted that: • You're just not up for walking or exercising with your friend anymore.
• You don't think you should play softball, pickup basketball, golf or tennis anymore because you keep getting hurt. • You're getting older and pain and stiffness is just a part of aging. • You don't feel you can keep up with your kids or grandkids so you'll just sit back and watch. • Your balance and gait is not what it used to be so you'll just take it easy. But there are people in your life who are not ready to accept it yet, and need you to get going again. You see, maintaining your own health is bigger than just you. Your friends need you to walk with them because getting support is as important to people as giving support. Your teammates need you for camaraderie and to keep that competitive spirit alive in them and because just one person short can cause everyone to miss out on the thrill of competition that keeps everyone young. Your kids and/or grandkids need you to be active as there are so many things these days which draw them to be sedentary or lack the ability to have free and unstructured play. Not working on improving your gait, balance and maintaining your mobility may cause you to fall and unintentionally shift an enormous burden of care on to your spouse or child. Even if you do not realize it, not giving in when you may be
tired or "just don't feel up to it" provides inspiration to those all around you; family, friends, neighbors and even people you don't know for years to come. If you won't do it for yourself, do it for someone else. What you will get back will be worth it. If you want to do it for someone else, we can help. Visit www.FeelBetterWithPT.com. Tell us who you are going to do it for. We will help you help them. I'll be waiting to hear from you. -- Matthew P.S. If you still want to do it for yourself, that’s okay too.
October 2020 | 15
SCHOOL DISTRICT OF THE CHATHAMS SPOTLIGHT: 2020-2021 SCHOOL YEAR REOPENING
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Contributed by the School District of the Chathams he School District of the Chathams spent the summer focused on how to safely bring students and teachers back into the school buildings for live instruction, while mitigating the continuing risks presented by COVID-19. Working closely with the local health departments that service Chatham Borough and Chatham Township to implement NJ Department of Health guidance, the District continued to innovate to be in the position to open the 2020-2021 school year with students attending in person. Classrooms and common spaces were reconfigured to distance students. Outdoor classrooms were built and are being utilized at all schools, weather permitting. Plexiglass was installed. HVAC and ventilation systems were upgraded. Nurses’ offices were redesigned. School schedules were modified to allow additional time for cleaning. New curricula was developed for hybrid and virtual instruction models. Heightened cleaning protocols were implemented. The Chatham Emergency Squad helped to secure Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) such as face shields and KN95 masks and also performed fit testing of KN95 masks on all school district nurses. Although classrooms look different and the must-have back-toschool item is now a mask, students are excited to return to the classroom with a new appreciation for school.
A classroom at Southern Boulevard School. (Courtesy of the School District of the Chathams) 16 | Chatham Living
Nurse Christina Sachs undergoes KN95 mask fit testing at Washington Avenue School. (Courtesy of the School District of the Chathams)
NOT ALL WOMEN WANTED THE VOTE
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Contributed by Patricia Wells, Chatham Township Historical Society s we celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the 19th Amendment, it is instructive to look back at the women’s anti-suffrage movement. It may surprise us today, but many women were opposed to giving women the right to vote. In 1914, the New Jersey Association Opposed to Woman Suffrage (NJAOWS) was founded in Trenton by a group of women who were afraid of the powerful voices of the suffragists, including New Jersey’s Alice Paul. The members of the association felt as strongly about their cause – sparing women the responsibility of voting – as
suffragists did about their right to vote. There was an active branch of the Association in Summit. Its activities were regularly reported in the Chatham Press and the Summit Herald. Chatham women could and did attend the meetings to hear leading anti-suffragists speak and to raise money for the cause. It is particularly interesting to read their arguments against women’s suffrage. The following are five of the ten reasons presented on a poster titled “Reasons Why the Women of New Jersey Oppose Equal Suffrage.” • Because suffrage is to be regarded not as a privilege to be enjoyed, but as a duty to be performed. • Because hitherto the women of this State have enjoyed exemptions from this burdensome duty, and no adequate reason has been assigned from depriving them of that immunity. • Because equality in character does not imply similarity in function, and the duties and life of men and women are divinely ordered to be different in the State, as in the home. • Because the energies of women are engrossed by their present duties and interests, from which men cannot relieve them, and it is better for the community that they devote their energies to the more efficient performance of their present work than to divert them to new fields of activity.
"A Suffragette’s Home" postcard published by the Campaign Committee, National League for Opposing Woman Suffrage.
• Because suffrage logically involves the holding of public office, and officeholding is inconsistent with the duties of most women.
Anti-Suffrage cartoon "My Wife Won't Let Me Vote", 1909, Dunston-Weiler Lithograph Co. From the Catherine H. Palczewski Suffrage Postcard Image Gallery, University of Northern Iowa.
Opponents of suffrage feared the collapse of society as they knew it if women were allowed to vote. Political cartoons of the day showed men cast into the role of women and women abandoning the home. In 1915, a state referendum defeated a resolution on the amendment 51,000 to 317,000. Of course, only men could vote. After the 19th Amendment was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate in the spring of 1919, antisuffragists in New Jersey campaigned hard to prevent ratification in New Jersey. They failed. New Jersey was the 29th of 36 states needed to ratify the amendment on August 18, 1920.
October 2020 | 17
ADOPT-A-PET
St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center provides services that support the human-animal bond and seeks to foster an environment in which people respect all living creatures. Learn how you can volunteer, foster, and adopt at sthuberts.org. You can meet and adopt any of the following animals at our Madison Campus, 575 Woodland Avenue.
Contributed by St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center Photos by St. Hubert’s
Say hi to Ham! This sociable fellow loves meeting new people and making new dog friends. (He also gives great kisses). He would love nothing more than to go home and cuddle on your couch. Visit https://www.sthuberts.org/ adoption-appointments to make an appointment to adopt Ham.
This stunning tabby queen is Snuggles. She’s an independent lady who seeks attention on her own terms. (She gets the whole social distancing thing). Snuggles enjoys making a “throne” out of pillows and blankets to sleep on. She also snores loudly, and it’s adorable! To adopt Snuggles, email her foster family at ijlazar326@ gmail.com.
Meet O’Neill! This cute Corgi mix is 9 years young. He enjoys playing tug and chasing toys. He’s sweet, spunky and social – and can’t wait to find his fur-ever home! He’s dog friendly, may be okay with cats and prefers a home with mature school age kids and up. To learn more or adopt O’Neill, email his foster at lcpeacock88@gmail.com 18 | Chatham Living
Polly is a super cute kitten looking for her forever home. Polly has one eye and doesn’t see well, but it never holds her back from playing and exploring! Her favorite activities include playing with a crinkle ball and sunbathing. It may take her a few days to get used to a new space, but once she knows her way around, she'll gain great confidence with guidance from her new family. She would do best in a calm home, perhaps with another fur sibling that wouldn't mind showing her the ropes. To adopt Polly, contact her foster at Shannonbley@gmail.com.
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