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PHOTOGRAPH BY NEIL GRABOWSKY

The Nguyen/Shah FamilyBlending Cultures In the Montclair Melting Pot

A community magazine serving the residents of Montclair and Upper Montclair

APRIL 2018

MontclairNeighbors

2 MONTCLAIR NEIGHBORS

PET CORNER

Marley needs the comfort of a couch with a human. This 8-year-old is a little blown away right now. Boxers don’t kennel well. And it’s very hard on a dog that has been in a home all her life.

Marley adores kids and she would be fine in a home with an older male dog. Please consider opening your heart and home to this senior gal! Bella is a 10-year-old Maine Coon. Montclair Township Animal Shelter pulled her from a larger, open intake shelter to give her an opportunity to shine and get noticed. Not much else is known about this pretty girl’s history. She is good with other cats, was recently professionally groomed, and is spayed.

If you’re thinking about giving Marley or Bella a new home, please contact Montclair Township Animal Shelter at 973-744- 8600 or email [email protected] for more info.

At press time, these fur babies were available for adoption. If the one you’re interested in is no longer available, please consider other wonderful pets at PAWS-Montclair or Montclair Township Animal Shelter waiting for a loving home like yours.

Bella

Marley

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APRIL 2018 3

Dear Residents,

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. © 2018 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

ADVERTISINGContact: Michael Stefanelli

Email: [email protected] Phone: 973-277-7301

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PUBLICATION TEAM

PUBLISHER Michael Stefanelli

CONTENT COORDINATOR Candice Horowitz DESIGNER Marti GolonPHOTOGRAPHY Neil Grabowsky / Through The Lens Studios

FROM THE EDITOR

DID YOU KNOW that in 2010 Montclair was designated a “Climate Showcase Community” by the US Environmental Protection Agency? Or that our town attained Sustainable Jersey certification for the third time in 2016?”

This month we introduce you to Gray Russell, Montclair’s Sustainability Officer. From recycling and composting pro-grams to finding new ways of using energy efficiently, he’s the guy who’s working hard to continually raise the bar for Montclair’s environmental achievements. As he explains, here in Montclair we’re inextri-cably connected to all of planet Earth. So it’s equally important for each of us to consider how we can take part. And since April is Earth month in Montclair, it’s the perfect time to focus our attention in that direction.

Here are some of Gray’s suggestions to observe the Earth Day celebration:■ Use little or no disposable plastics - BYO shopping bags and water bottles■ Drive less, get outside to bike and walk for fun, wellness, and the climate■ Eat lower on the food chain; ie, less meats produced in Concentrated Animal Feed Operations (CAFOs), and more plant-based foods, especially locally-grown■ Compost leaves, grass clip-pings, and some kitchen scraps in a backyard compost bin (available at a discount from the Environmental Affairs office)■ Switch your electricity supply to one with higher renewable energy contentAll the best, CANDICE HOROWITZ Content Coordinator

300 Broadacres Drive, 4th Floor | Bloomfield, NJ 07003Tel: 973-893-8077 | Fax: 973-893-8099

Accounting/[email protected] | www.lpappascpa.com

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Lawrence R. Pappas, CPA, CFP®

Accounting and Tax Services for Businesses and IndividualsEstate and Retirement Planning

Financial Advisory for Business Owners

Lawrence R. Pappas, CPA, Registered Representative, Investment Adviser Representative. Securities Offered Through Cetera Financial Specialists, LLC (Doing Insurance Business In CA as CFGFS Insurance Agency), Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services Offered Through Cetera Investment Advisors, LLC. Cetera Entities are Under Separate Ownership From Any other Named Entity. Home Office at 200 N. Martingale Road, 7th Floor, Schaumberg, IL 60173; Phone: 88-528-2987


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EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS

ELDER LAW AND ESTATESWanderPolo & SiegelSince 2003, WanderPolo & Siegel has served clients in Montclair and Essex County in the areas of estate planning, elder law and special needs law. The firm is at the forefront of the new interdisciplinary practice

model of life care planning, which combines traditional estate planning and asset protection with care coordination and planning. The firm is led by Montclair resident Shana Siegel, a certified elder law attorney who serves the values and needs of aging clients and their families. www.wpselderlaw.com • 973-744-5710

ACCOUNTING & TAX PREPARATIONLawrence R. Pappas, CPA, CFP®Lawrence R. Pappas, CPA, P.C., CFP®, based in Bloomfield, provides a full range of accounting, bookkeeping, consulting, financial and estate planning, outsourcing, payroll and business services,

either in your facility or at our location. Whether it’s an individual tax return, business and tax advice to help a small business maximize its profits, or a complete set of financial statements for a large corporation, everyone gets our professional best. www.lpappascpa.com • 973-893-8077

ELECTRICAL KB Electric Inc.KB Electric was started in 1992 by founder and owner Keith Ballentine. Keith is a Montclair native with decades of experience in the electrical industry. To this day, KB Electric strives

to offer the best service and satisfaction while maintaining the feel of a small, local business with community roots. www.kbelectricnj.com • 973-744-6201

CYCLING AND OUTDOOR FITNESSMontclair BikeryMontclair Bikery, based in the heart of Montclair, supports all cyclists from the beginner to the enthusiast. Owner, Dave Adornato is passionate about cycling and racing. He gets a thrill from

seeing people of all ages enjoy cycling in all its’ different forms. And his passion is backed by the most cutting edge, deeply stocked inventory and over 35 years of cycling knowledge and fitting expertise. As experts in customer enthusiasm with the finest products, specialists and services, it’s our mission to create the bike of your dreams. www.montclairbikery.com • 973-744-7252

FUNERAL SERVICES Halpin-Bitecola Brookdale Funeral HomeHalpin-Bitecola Brookdale Funeral & Cremation Service has been serving the Montclair community with care and compassion since 1963. Their service is proven by winning national honors, for Pursuit of Excellence, from the National

Funeral Directors Association. Family owned and operated, this establishment strives to carry out their legacy of service to community, and incorporates their mission statement “Making a Difference Through Family and Community” in everything they do. www.brookdalefh.com • 973-338-5900

INTEROR DESIGN Sally Ross DesignsOne-of-a-kind bespoke projects that consider the architectural style of a home and needs of the family living in it. In space and expense, the studio’s goal is “just right” versus “overdoing it”.

www.sallyrossdesigns.com • 973-744-3186

To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact BVM at [email protected] or phone 973-277-7301.

FINANCIAL PLANNINGJames M. Kelly, CFP® Edward Jones Financial ServicesExperienced certified financial planner (CFP) helping individuals achieve serious, long-term financial goals by understanding needs

and implementing tailored solutions. Areas of focus include retirement and estate planning, tax planning strategies, insurance and investments. www.edwardjones.com/james-kelly2 • 973-655-0167

HOME HEATING & AIR CONDITIONINGAir Group

Air Group has become NJ’s premier full-service heating, air conditioning and ventilation (HVAC) company, providing personalized solutions, both residential and commercial, for every heating, air conditioning and indoor air quality application. Your comfort is an important responsibility — one the company has taken seriously for more than 50 years.www.airgroupllc.com • 800-545-1020

APRIL 2018 5

JEWELRY Craig Brady Fine Jeweler (Formerly Valley Jewelers)Craig Brady, owner/designer/jeweler, has been designing jewelry for more than 30 years. Craig Brady Fine Jeweler performs repairs,

appraisals, insurance replacements and buys gold, platinum and diamonds. It’s home of CMB Private Label, its in-house line of limited edition and one-of-a-kind pieces. www.craigbrady.com • 973-746-0505

Debra David, RA, Licensed ArchitectDebra David is the principal her own architectural firm located in Montclair New Jersey. She is primarily involved in the renovation and rehabilitation of buildings built between 1860 and 1920 in both the Montclair

and Jersey City areas. She is fascinated by the means and methods of construction for historic buildings and puts her own special twist on a project by updating materials and renovating to fit today’s lifestyle. [email protected] 201-783-3884 cell • 973-783-1936 office

ORTHOPAEDIC MEDICINE FDQ Orthopaedic GroupOrthopaedic Medicine surgeons specializing in joint replacement, sports medicine and foot and ankle surgery. Each physician in the Femino-Ducey-Queler Orthopaedic Group is distinctively skilled in his area of

expertise. Patients from as far as Europe and Asia have sought out Dr. Femino for hip and knee replacement surgery. Local sports teams rely on the expertise of Dr. Ducey to get them back on the playing field after injuries or other conditions sideline them. Dr. Queler’s expertise treating the foot and ankle enables patients to become fully functional once again. www.femino-duceyorthopaedics.com • 973-751-0111

SENIOR LIVING Green HillGreen Hill is a premier, five-star, non-profit retirement and continuum of care

community in the New York metropolitan area. Green Hill has provided seniors and their families with compassionate, person centered care for over 150 years. Green Hill offers a lifestyle for every need, whether you are independent and on the go, or need a little help with daily living, in studio, one and two bedroom apartments, or require nursing or rehabilitative care in private suites with baths. Green Hill is welcoming community with SAGECare Platinum Certification, a RWJBarnabas Health 2017 Post-Acute Care Partner and the home of the 1st Green House® Homes in New Jersey. www.green-hill.com • 973-731-2300

ORAL SURGERY The Center For Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery And ImplantologyDr. Philip M. Echo D.M.D has been practicing Oral and Maxillofacial surgery in the area for over 20 years. The Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery &

Implantology is committed to making every aspect of your care as pleasurable as possible. www.echooralsurgery.com • 973-667-5844

LOCAL ARCHITECTUREBetsy Ceccio, Licensed Realtor @ Keller WilliamsBetsy Ceccio is a lifelong resident of Montclair and holds a Master’s in Architecture, Historic Preservation from Columbia U. She has nearly 20

years’ experience marketing and selling homes in Metropolitan NJ and brings to clients her love of historic architecture and experience as a restoration specialist in order to help prepare and present their homes in the best light for a quick and successful closing. [email protected] • 917-755-7672

LEGAL – REAL ESTATE Lubenesky & AssociatesLubenesky & Associates is a boutique law firm serving clients in northern New Jersey and New York City. The firm specializes in real estate, small business and transactional law. John

Lubenesky resides in Montclair with his wife and three young boys. www.lubenesky.com • 973-707-3393

SMSM

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REAL ESTATE Jeffrey Kist, EXP RealtyJeffrey specializes in Montclair real estate bringing years of sales and marketing experience in offering residential and commercial real estate services for sellers, buyers, high-end buyers and first-time buyers.

www.jeffreykistrealtor.com • 866-201-6210

908.507.6826 • [email protected] For us we enjoy a challenge,

no problem is too big or too small.

LENFELL ASSOCIATES LLCAccounting. Tax. Forensics. Advisory

Robert Crook CPA, Managing Director

www.LenfellAssociates.com

41 The Crescent, Montclair, NJ 07042


DESPITE THEIR distinctly different cultural back-grounds, Mona Shah and De Nguyen discovered similarities in their experience of growing up as chil-dren of first generation immigrants. “Both of our families

leaned on their respective communities and worked very hard to provide the ‘American dream’ to their children,” explained Mona. “It was always a common bond when we were dating and contin-ues to be one now that we’re raising our children too.”

The couple, now married with two kids, 9-year-old, Serena, and 5-year-old, Kyle, met at Tufts University. “In college, I got involved with the Vietnamese Student Association and became presi-dent of the Asian Community at Tufts, but I didn’t grow up with

Asian American friends,” said De, who was raised in Worcester, Massachusetts. “I went to a Catholic elementary school and a private high school. I was basically the only Asian person.”

As a child, living in central New Jersey, Mona had her own struggles with her cultural identity. “I wanted to hide the fact that I was Indian,” recalled Mona. “I was embarrassed that I was Indian. In 4th grade, on Culture Day I made my mom basically make an American dish. I brought a fruit salad with a few Indian spices.” But once Mona arrived at college, a whole new world opened up to her. “All of a sudden there were other Indians who had a similar experience. Finally, I felt I could be okay with being Indian. I met people from all across the world. It felt all accepting

BY CANDICE HOROWITZ

PHOTOGRAPHS BY NEIL GRABOWSKY / THROUGH THE LENS STUDIOS

RESIDENT FEATURE

Mona Shah, De Nguyen and

their kids; Serena, 9, and Kyle, 5.

The Nguyen/Shah FamilyBlending Cultures In the Montclair Melting Pot

APRIL 2018 7

there, and Montclair feels like another version of that.”

For the past seven years, De and Mona have called Montclair home, but it took a bit of effort to get here. They invested a year and a half in search of a community they felt was the right fit for their multicul-tural family. “I wanted to make sure our kids had classmates that were also diverse and accepting,” said Mona. “I wish I had more of that in school rather than just on the weekends, but I grew up in a primarily white neighborhood.”

Mona and De value the vast array of Montclair residents from all over the globe, and the positive impact it has on Serena and Kyle’s appreciation for their own back-ground. “It’s going to be more natural as our kids grow up,” said De. “They’ll know who they are and have more confidence about it. Serena at nine knows way more about her culture and heritage than I ever knew.”

“The schools are very good about celebrating the different hol-idays,” added Mona. “I go into the school to do a presentation on Diwali. But I do feel like you go through social pressures through-out life. Serena is sometimes hesitant about wearing Indian dresses to school. She says to me, ‘But Mommy, I’ll wear them on weekends.’ “

Serena currently attends classes at Kulture Kool, a cultural

center where they learn about Indian customs and language, and Kyle will start in the Fall. “They’ll be able to embrace it,” said De. “Both of our fami-lies ‘Americanized’ us. My parents didn’t make a concerted effort to expose me to Vietnamese culture. But I truly believe in what our parents did for us. They gave up everything so they could give us the best education.”

To say that De’s parents made sacri-fices to provide a good life for their family can easily be considered an understate-ment. In January 1979, after the fall of Saigon, De’s father sold his gold bars for six tickets on a boat leaving Vietnam. De and his family were part of the wave of

Vietnamese refugees commonly known as the “boat people”. “I came over when I was four,” shared De. “My father didn’t want his children to grow up under communist rule.”

The boat, called a junket, had a maximum capacity of 60 people, but De, along with his parents and three siblings between the ages of three and eight, were among 180 passengers risking their lives to leave their homeland. “We were out at sea for five days,” said De. “I have no memory of it but I think it was very traumatic. So many people died. People often got lost at sea but we were lucky. We ran into an oil tanker and they told us ‘Keep going in this direction and you’ll hit Indonesia.’ ”


The Nguyens spent six months in Indonesia while De’s father arranged passage to the United States. “We were in a refugee camp. My parents called it Coconut Island because all we ate was coconuts. The only form of currency my dad had was gold bars.”

By June 1979, the family’s paperwork was complete. “At the time, most countries weren’t taking political refugees, but we had a sponsor. My aunt was already in the U.S., in Worcester, Massachusetts.”

In the years that followed, De’s parents struggled to build a new life for the family. His father, a physician, had to re-train and re-certify to be able to practice in the U.S. “For the first two years my mom worked under the table jobs, factory type jobs, two jobs at a time for four or five dollars an hour, just to provide for us while my dad was studying,” recalled De. “And once he was certi-fied, he worked long days.”

Many years passed before De heard his father speak about the experience. “When I was in high school I had a project and I had to interview my dad,” said De. “That’s when I found out what we went through - about the war, what his role was. You could tell how emotional he was about it. When you’re little you don’t appreciate it.”

It wasn’t until 2004, when he was a graduate student at Georgetown University, that De had the opportunity to visit Vietnam for the first time. He and a team of fellow MBA students spent a week in Saigon to present a business plan for American Express. “It was eye opening. For the Vietnamese people, there’s no resentment toward America. Their hope is to provide a better life for their people.”

Mona’s parents, both physicians, also immigrated here in the 1970s. Traveling with less than $300, they came to the U.S. Both Mona and her sister were born shortly thereafter. “My parents created an amazing Indian community here since most of their family didn’t come here,” explained Mona. “My father is one of eight siblings and De’s father is one of fourteen siblings. At

Do you know a neighbor who has a story to share? Nominate your neighbor to be featured in one of our upcoming issues! Contact us at [email protected].

Above: De Nguyen’s family, early 1980s. Right: Mona and her sister, early 1980s. Top right: Mona and De’s Indian Wedding. Bottom right: Their Vietnamese Wedding Ceremony

our wedding, we had over 400 people that included both family members and our respective extended communities. We had both a traditional Indian wedding and Vietnamese wedding.”

Mona recently took Serena to visit family in India. “My memo-ries are of going as a child and seeing the slums and the different classes. Even middle-income families have servants, which is crazy. It was good that Serena really saw the differences. It’s hard to just say to your kids, ‘Don’t waste food. There are people in India who don’t have food,’ until they are able to see it first hand. In India, the harder you work, the more you can achieve. So Serena saw how hard everyone studied. I hope that she’ll want to do the same for herself.”

“For my parents, it was all about studying and working hard,” recalled De. “I would come home and study. I never had play-dates growing up in a Vietnamese household. That’s one of the challenges of raising kids in this generation with so many distrac-tions like TV and electronics. You want to create a good balance.”

“Coming from a family of physicians, it’s kind of in me to serve my community too,” said Mona. “It was always something I wanted to do and something that we pride ourselves on.”

Mona and De make an effort to instill those values of working hard and contributing to their community in Serena and Kyle. As a family, they often look for opportunities to volunteer locally. “Fortunately for Mona and me, we saw it first hand,” said De. “We saw how tough our parents had it. It’s harder to ingrain that sense of the American dream unless you have struggled. But one way is through community service. We make it an important part of our lives so we can tell them, ‘Don’t take what you have for granted’.” ■

APRIL 2018 9

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HAVE YOU EVER wondered how you can protect the environment, reduce your carbon footprint, or lower your utility bills?

Montclair resident, Gray Russell, spends much of his time thinking about these things and fielding questions from his fellow Montclarions about everything from recycling and ailing trees in their backyard, to a “funny taste” in the water. As Sustainability Officer for Montclair’s Office of Environmental Affairs, a position he’s maintained for 17 years, it’s Gray’s job to inform residents and create policies that protect their health and safety, our natural environment, and the overall resilience of Montclair.

By definition, societal sustainabil-ity means “meeting the needs of the present without reducing the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”. And while not all of the inquiries Gray receives are within the realm of his responsibilities, he appreciates any interest that for-wards the cause.

For his part, among a variety of initiatives, Gray is currently focused on paving the way for cleaner, more efficient and cost-effective energy. He recently went before the Montclair Township Council, convincing them to pass a resolu-tion that would support the exploration of cheaper and cleaner energy for Montclair residents. Since then, along with other leaders in the Sustainable Essex Alliance (SEA), Gray has been working on leveraging the bargaining power of the six munic-ipalities that have passed resolutions supporting the process including Glen Ridge, Maplewood, Millburn, South Orange, and Verona. With their combined purchasing power, they plan to procure cleaner, less expensive electrical power for their res-idents. “One of my goals is to protect our climate, and I realize that starting right where I live is an important part if that,”

Gray Russell: Green With a PassionBY CANDICE HOROWITZ

SOMEONE YOU SHOULD KNOW

explained Gray. “This is where my roots are.”After all, Montclair is the setting for four gen-

erations of Gray’s family history. So those roots run deep. “My mom was born here in 1920 and lived here her whole life,” he shared. “My grand-parents brought my grandmother here over a hundred years ago. And both my grandfather and

his brother were WWI heroes. Their names are inscribed on the Edgemont Park World War I memorial.”

With the exception of several years spent in college in New England, as well as a couple of years overseas, Gray too, has lived in Montclair his whole life. “As a teenager, I probably thought ‘I can’t wait to get out of this town’. Growing up in the 50s and 60s and coming into adulthood in the 70s, most of my gang left. But when I returned from overseas, I started working as a recording engineer in New York City and several of the producers and engi-neers I was working with lived in Montclair. That led me back.”

Before Gray’s days were consumed with all things “green”, he was hanging out with rock stars at the legendary Record Plant

Left: Gray greeting residents at the Montclair Shred-Fest, 2013

APRIL 2018 11

Gray on an electricity-generating stationary bike at Montclair State University, 2016

Studios where he spent 15 years working on classic albums such as Tom Petty’s Damn the Torpedos, Blondie’s Parallel Lines, and Bruce Springsteen’s Darkness on the Edge of Town. “I learned the craft of constructing a recording and making a pop song,” said Gray. “I worked with all the punks in New York; Patti Smith, The Clash, Lou Reed. I love music. All kinds of music.”

As new technologies transformed the music industry in the 1980s and 90s, and New York City rent skyrocketed, many of the big recording studios closed. “Back then studios had big rooms that could fit an orchestra,” said Gray. “With digital technology, now all you need is a control room.”

When Record Plant Studios shut its doors in 1989, Gray was forced to reassess his career. “All during the 80s I happened to be developing knowledge in environ-mental issues,” he recalled. “I had a new rock and roll, this passion in my blood.”

Gray soon began working for the New Jersey Environmental Federation, man-aging their canvasing office in New Brunswick. “I was used to working 12 hour days, long hours with no days off. This was a six-hour day. They thought I had super energy and I was passionate about it.” After a few years, Gray moved on to The New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx, where he spent seven years expanding the borough-wide compost program for the NYC Bureau of Recycling.

In his current role, Gray is now helping to shape Montclair’s future, especially as it relates to the town’s readiness for emer-gencies. “One offshoot of sustainability is resilience,” he explains, “which has become a big planning term in particular in New Jersey since Sandy. It implies that a community is able to prepare for emergencies and disruption, and is able to bounce back quickly.”

With the help of a New Jersey Board of Public Utilities grant, a feasibility study is being conducted to determine if Montclair could be a good location for a microgrid, an efficient way of sup-plying electricity. “A large-scale onsite generator that can provide electricity, hot water and heat to a group of buildings would be a big advantage when the grid goes down. This could be caused by a hurricane like Sandy, or from some human cause like cyber hacking. We think we would house this at Mountainside Hospital and connect to the Montclair Fire Department head-quarters which serves as our emergency management center. A senior residence, Glenfield School, and NJ Transit Bay Street train station would all be connected and operational.”

According to Gray, there are two big environmental rev-olutions in the works. The first is the electrification of the transportation sector. And he himself walks the walk. That is, when he’s not walking, he drives a Chevy Volt and takes pride in the fact that Montclair installed New Jersey’s first network series of public charging stations for pluggable electric vehicles.

The second is just a bunch of garbage. But it will likely trans-form waste management as we know it. “The next big wave of recycling is food waste,” said Gray. Major cities on the west coast and some in New England have programs, and Brooklyn has a pilot project. “At the Rahway Valley Treatment Facility, they make biogas, or methane, from food waste, which then can be

sold either to make liquid nitrogen gas, a renewable fuel, or, as digestate, which is a byproduct of compost. It’s a really cool thing and there’s going to be more and more of these food waste processing facilities.” Processed food manufacturers with organics will be able to send their waste, as well as hospitals, prisons, and eventually, res-idential collection will follow. “Within two years you’ll start to see this as more common,” said Gray. “Forty percent of garbage by weight is food waste. It’s the biggest change in garbage since recycling.”

As part of Gray’s vision for the future of Montclair, he hopes more residents will recycle and compost, and think about the way they choose and use energy by getting a home energy audit. “There are some simple steps to take. And there are basic transformations taking place all around us.” ■

Join Gray Russell for the Green Film series at the Montclair Public Library

on the 3rd Thursday of every month. The series, now in its 10th year, features compelling topics and award-winning films. For more information go to www.montclairnjusa.org/government/departments/environmental_affairs/sustainability_news___events/montclair_green_film_series/

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THE MONTCLAIR PUBLIC LIBRARY is having a big birthday and you’re invited!” says Library Director Peter Coyl. “We are hosting a variety of events to celebrate the 125th anniversary of our founding in 1893, including

two birthday parties.”

■ On April 11 at 4:30 come to our Community Birthday Party. There will be storytime, face painting, balloon animals, games and, of course, cake.■ Our 125th Birthday Gala will take place at the Library on Saturday, April 14 at 7pm. Celebrate after-hours and get a sneak peek of the restored 1940 documentary featuring the Montclair Public Library and a first glance at renovation plans by Andrew Berman Architect. Tickets, $50 a person, are available online.

Another element of our celebration will be Montclair Reads Cheaper by the Dozen, a community read of the classic book about one of Montclair’s notable families. “We are very excited to be incorporating this bit of Montclair history and, of course, reading into our celebration,” says Coyl.

Beginning April 14, the Library will distribute free custom copies of the book and a discussion guide. Please email [email protected] or call 973.744.0500, extension 2234 to reserve your copy. We are happy to make copies available to individuals, groups, book clubs or classes so long as quantities are available.

Throughout April and May, the Library will hosting Montclair Reads events – such as book clubs and movie screenings -- at the Library. Highlights include:

■ April 30 at 6:30 Montclair Historian Michael Farrelly’s lecture: “The Gilbreth Family of Montclair.”■ May 8 at 6:30 Step back in time to the Cheaper by the Dozen era with music by the Dapper Dans of Harmony and an ice cream social.■ May 11 at 6:30 Author Jane Lancaster’s lecture: “Beyond Cheaper by the Dozen: The Remarkable Lillian Gilbreth.”■ May 17 at 3 “From the Archives: Images of Old Montclair” will show pictures from the Library’s archives.■ May 24 at 6:30 “The Ultimate Montclair Reads Book Club” will include a screening of a documentary about the Gilbreth’s work and a discussion led by Library Director Peter Coyl.Check the Library website -- montclairlibrary.org – for all the Montclair Reads details.

A PROUD HISTORY“Like the community, the Montclair Library has always been at the forefront of innovation, striving to serve, reflect and improve

Join the Library’s 125th Birthday PartyCONTRIBUTED BY MONTCLAIR PUBLIC LIBRARY

AT THE LIBRARY

our town,” continues Coyl. “From the very beginning, it has been our mission to prioritize and support the people’s informational, cultural, and educational needs.”

Montclair citizens voted to establish a public, tax supported library on April 11, 1893. But the library existed in earlier forms-- first as a subscription library collection started by Israel Crane in 1869, and then as an association library in 1871. The library building at that location was built for $1,700 and later burned down during a blizzard in 1880. Luckily, most of the collection (about 2,000 volumes) was rescued and moved to Central School.

Montclair Public Library, Bellevue Ave. Branch, Upper Montclair, Delivery Service, Transportation Automobiles, ca. 1940

“

APRIL 2018 13

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We Take Pride in Your CareDr. Frank Femino specializes in hip and knee replacement surgeries using minimally invasive techniques and routinely performs partial knee replacements as an outpatient procedure.

Dr. Stephen Ducey specializes in sports medicine and performs arthroscopic procedures to knees, shoulders and hips as well as performs shoulder replacement surgery, anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, articular cartilage surgery and patellofemoral realignment.

Dr. Seth Queler specializes in the treatment of foot and ankle disorders including ankle arthritis, flatfoot deformity and bunion deformity, and performs arthroscopy and arthroplasty of the ankle.

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Left: Group portrait at Daisy Hightower Librarians Event, Head Start Children Story Hours, May 1971Below: At the Church St. building, library patron with library staff. Photo by Lewis W. Hine

After the municipal library was approved in 1893, funds and materials were moved from the existing association library to 16 Church Street-- on the second floor of Dr. John J.H. Love’s office. Coincidentally, the doctor’s home was located where the Main Library is today.

Over time, the library changed locations. In 1898 it moved to Munn Tavern, an abandoned inn. In 1904, with the help of $40,000 from the Carnegie Corporation, the library got its own building at the site of the Munn Tavern (73 Church Street). This building is now part of the Evangelical Covenant Church at 17 Valley Road.

Meanwhile, the first branch library opened up in 1899 in a

rented room in the real estate office of John Mancini on Bellevue Avenue. By 1914, the branch got its own building-- where it still stands today-- with additional funds from the Carnegie Corporation.

In 1927, Margery Quigley became the sixth director of the library and ushered in a new era of innovative library service, inspiring libraries worldwide. Accomplishments such as the delivery service for homebound patrons (which still exists), the computerized circulation system (established in 1942!), and other major innovations all happened under her tenure.

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their 1940 film “Portrait of a Library” which was shown around the world, bringing attention to the innovative and diverse community.

In 1955, the current Main Library building was completed to accommodate the growing community. Davella Mills Foundation donated both the site and a major portion of the construction funds.

The 1960s and 1970s saw further innovation under direc-tor Arthur Curley, and, later, director Betty Turock. Community outreach with bookmobiles caused a surge in library use, and an audiovisual collection and classic film series were created. In 1973, the Afro Ballet Ensemble was established-- the only American ballet troupe with residence in a public library. In 1979, the federally funded community information service Neighborhood Information Center Helps Everyone (NICHE) was incorporated into the library.

In the 1980s, the library kept up with changing times, expand-ing the audiovisual collection with then-cutting- edge video and audio cassettes and installing computers for public use. Meanwhile, the Bellevue Avenue Branch underwent a reno-vation in 1985, which included the opening of a full-service children’s room on the lower level, initially staffed by volunteers.

In 1996, the Main Library underwent its own renovation and expansion, temporarily living at the YWCA during construction. A year later, the library moved back into the renovated build-ing-- with a new auditorium, cafe, and art gallery that we still

enjoy today-- and the web catalog was also introduced. In 2002, MPL was named a top five library in the nation by Library Journal and the library’s Foundation was formed.

The same spirit of innovation and community connection con-tinue into end of the 2010s as those who first established MPL. In 2014, the Adult School of Montclair was integrated into the library, bringing more educational opportunities into the library. In 2015, we introduced our bookbike to bring the library to the people at events around town.

“On the occasion of our 125th anniversary we are proud to look back and build on the success of years past” says Coyl. “Here’s to another 125 years learning, connection, and progress!” ■

Montclair Public Library, S. Fullerton Avenue location, National Library Week, April 1962. Photo by Ed Kamper

APRIL 2018 15

JEWELRY

ARE YOU OR SOMEONE you know planning on buying a diamond? It can be a daunting experience because the world of diamonds is so unfamiliar to most consumers—and there are a lot of diamond

sellers posed to take advantage. Sometimes, after buying a lack luster diamond online, a young couple will bring it in for our opinion. In most cases, we explain that they got exactly the quality for which they paid, not the great deal they thought they were getting but not exactly a horrible rip-off either.

These days lab-grown diamonds and simulants are com-monplace. Hundreds of diamond-switching cases have been reported. (I encourage you to do an online search; it’s amazing what hasn’t been on the evening news.) Furthermore, if you plan on buying a laser-inscribed diamond to thwart this problem, know that the inscription can be polished off, making retrieval after a theft impossible.

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) report is the “gold standard” method of 4C rating (carat, cut, color, clarity) on which most diamond shop-pers focus. The natural conclusion is to shop for the lowest price amongst dia-monds with identical 4C ratings. Aren’t all G-VS2, one-carat round diamonds created equal? No, they aren’t.

For starters, the 4C-rating that a diamond receives is an educated or expert opinion. As with all perception, there is some subjectiv-ity involved. Second, there are additional details which affect the diamond’s appearance and therefore its value. While the total amount of inclusions (aka “birthmarks”) gets the diamond its clarity rating, the location of the diamond’s inclusions is also important. An inclusion near the girdle (edge) of the diamond is generally preferable to an inclusion in the center where it is the most noticeable. Yet, both diamonds could have the same 4C rating. On average, a woman looks at her engagement ring 70 times per day. At some point, the black spot that looks like a sesame seed in the middle of her diamond is going to bother her, whereas if located near the diamond’s edge it can be hidden under

a prong. Placement of inclusions also affects sparkle, i.e. how light bounces around inside the diamond. So, the same 4C rating does not equal the same sparkle in two diamonds.

■ Measuring A Diamond’s SparkleA third-party company called Sarine helps 85% of the world’s diamonds get cut from rough crystal that comes out of the mine

to the polished diamonds from which family heirlooms are made. (In com-parison, DeBeers only touches 35%.) Sarine is a half-billion dollar, publicly traded company that does not sell dia-monds. Their new technology rates the brilliance of the diamond by mea-suring how light travels through the diamond. Brilliance is affected by the diamond’s cut as well as the place-ment of inclusions. One SI2 diamond could rate exceptional while another SI2 rates standard or even low. The Sarine electronic report includes a complete 360-degree view of the diamond magnified 10X so inclusions are visible, eliminating the need to use

a jeweler’s loupe when choosing a diamond— an exercise most consumers find awkward at best.

■ Capturing Your Diamond’s “Fingerprint”Now, leading diamond suppliers are having their diamonds scanned with Gemprint, the world’s most sophisticated tech-nology for diamond identification used by both the FBI and the Canadian government. The resulting report includes infrared pictures showing a diamond’s individual peculiarities. Just like a human, no two diamonds have the same “fingerprint.” Major insurance companies have endorsed this extra security with up to 10% discounts on annual insurance premiums, so you not only have the extra security but are able to save some money as well.

Finally, keep in mind that lower quality diamonds are pur-chased in bulk by large chains and online sellers—after being rejected by quality-conscious independent jewelers who indi-vidually hand pick their diamonds. Hence purchasing online in particular is akin to spinning the wheel of chance. Based on the latest science, Sarine and Gemprint, in combination with a GIA report, provide the most comprehensive information available to make a great choice for a piece that could be in your family for many generations. ■

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FUNERAL PLANNING

DO I NEED TO PAY now if I pre-plan a funeral or cre-mation? This is one of the most common questions we hear. The answer is no. The answer can also be yes, and depends on the situation of the person who is asking.

So how can there be two answers to a simple yes or no ques-tion? To answer this we need to give you a brief education about pre-planning which will be broken down into two articles.

Anyone can pre-plan a funeral for themselves, a loved one, or a friend. At the time of death however, the same person might not be in control of the funeral or cremation that they had pre-arranged. To understand who has the right to control at the time of death, please read our December article about funeral agents and right to control, or call, or visit our website www.BrookdaleFH.com.

To begin, you will need to meet with a licensed funeral direc-tor. The funeral director will discuss the type of services you wish to have, obtain biographical information, and explain the prices for the selections you choose. There is NO CHARGE to do this. They must provide you with several forms, one of which being

a General Price List. This price list will show you each service, item, or package they provide, and the cost for such. One of the other forms required is a Statement of Funeral Goods and Services Selected, or SFGSS. The SFGSS will list only the costs for the services you have selected and itemize your services. Once the total costs for the services have been calculated what you do next is based on a case by case basis.

You now discussed with the funeral director about your ser-vices. You may have gone into great detail and selected readings, songs, poems, tributes, etc. You may have just wanted to get an idea of how much your services would cost. You could just choose to provide that information to your family. This way they know what you want. You do not need to pre-fund your services. Do not feel obligated or pressured to do so. If you are, I would suggest selecting another firm you feel more comfortable with.

You may decide to take advantage of the benefits of pre-fund-ing the services you selected. You might need to spend down your assets to qualify for SSI/Medicaid, for which you can pre-fund your services prior to that process. In next month’s issue we will discuss how to pre-fund along with the benefits of doing so, as well as the many misconceptions about transferring and making changes. For the time being, you can contact the funeral home of your choice for guidance. ■

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PART ONE OF A TWO PART SERIES

APRIL 2018 17

ONE OF THE BIGGEST and most expensive houses ever built in Montclair was never finished. It was never lived in and was torn down. It was built by William and Ann Fellowes. It became known to the

locals as “Fellowes Folly”.William Fellowes Jr. was born in

Louisville, Kentucky. His parents were descended from colonial families and were quite wealthy. His father had a busi-ness and lived in Louisville for twenty years. He also owned a plantation in Louisiana and had a farm in Texas. He had extensive mining and railroad inter-ests. His parents had an apartment in Manhattan and an estate on Staten Island.

William Jr. was educated in north-ern schools. He entered Columbia, but left during his sophomore year to work with his uncle in the cotton business. He moved to New Orleans. When the war broke out he joined the Louisiana Artillery. He took part in the first and second battles of Bull Run, Antietam, Sharpsburg, and Fredericksburg. He was captured near Washington. He was paroled. He became sick and retired to his family’s home in New York to recuperate.

He returned to the South when his health improved and enlisted in the Confederate Navy. He was in the Confederate Navy until the end of the war. After the war, he took over his uncle’s cotton business in New Orleans. In 1868 he became an agent for some of the businesses owned by Bradish Johnson. Bradish was one of the wealthiest New York industrialists in the mid-to- late 19 th century. Among other things, he owned a huge distillery in New York. He owned sugar plantations and refineries in and around New Orleans. William’s duties with the Johnson businesses would have brought him to New York occasionally. He also made trips abroad. Financial scandals often hovered over Johnson and his businesses. It’s hard to say what William took away from the experience. After two years he stopped being an employee and started to invest. He was very successful.

In 1868 William and his wife, Ann, went to England. They visited Montclair on their return to the United States. In 1884 they made another trip to Europe. This time they returned to Montclair with the intention of making it their home.

They bought property at the northeast corner of South Fullerton and Union Street. They hired a well-known New York architect, F. B. Kimball, to design a magnificent home for them. It was modelled after a large French château. They intended it to be one of the finest homes ever seen here. It was the largest home built to date in Montclair. Construction started in 1888. It took a year for the exterior to be completed. The exterior walls were red sandstone with a brownstone trim. The stones were quarried and dressed in Scotland. They were to be laid out in an ashlar (random) pattern. Each piece was numbered so it would fit together perfectly when re-assembled in the States. The roof was granite and red tile, specially made in Spain. Montclair directories give their address while it was being built as the construction site. There is no record of where they

actually stayed during construction.William and Ann were Episcopalians. They wanted to be

close to their church, so William bought another lot and pro-vided a great deal of money to relocate St. Luke’s Episcopal from its original home on St. Luke’s Place to South Fullerton. The funds he provided were conditional on the congregation raising another $40,000. The first collection to raise this money was during Easter Sunday services in 1888. William gave his

daughter, Hattie, and her friend Caddie Rockwell, $1,000 each to put on the col-lection plate.

After spending over $100,000 on their house, William and Ann suffered finan-cial reverses and ran out of money. Because of the expense involved, it was impossible to sell the unfinished house. No one ever finished it. No one ever lived in it. William died bankrupt in 1894.

Local citizens began to refer to the shell of the house as “Fellowes Folly”. It stood for a few years, but was bought by developers in 1914 for $500 and knocked down to make way for an apartment building. They found a time capsule in

the foundation. They returned the contents to Hattie who had married and was living in Albany. The apartment building stands on the site today. The only clue to this wonderful pipe dream is a small stone square at the corner of the property, marked “WF”. ■

Fellowes Folly CONTRIBUTED BY MIKE FARRELLY

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The house stood at the northeast corner of South Fullerton and Union Street.

EVENTS CALENDAR

2018SUN., APRIL 1, 8, 15, 22, 29Drop-In-Studio@Montclair Art Museum3 S. Mountain AvenueDrop by MAM’s Helen & Bill Geyer Art Studio to explore a range of art materials and pro-cesses based on artwork on view in the galleries. Open-ended activities are designed to spark creativity in artists of all ages and abilities with seasoned MAM studio instructors standing by to provide hands-on assistance and technical advice. Come in for 20 minutes or stay for an hour and leave with your very own master-piece. Drop-In-Studios are made possible by the generosity of Gala 2016 Fund-A-Need donors. Time: 1 - 4pmCost: Free with museum admis-sion/Free for memberswww.montclairartmuseum.org

MON., APRIL 2Monday Morning Yoga@Van Vleck House & Gardens21 Van Vleck StreetBegin your week with mindful Vinyasa yoga in the living room of the Van Vleck House overlook-ing the courtyard garden. Taking inspiration from the magnifi-cent natural beauty around us, we flow between postures at a slow to moderate pace, focusing on build-ing strength in body and mind. This class welcomes all levels from beginner to experienced yogis. Bring your own mat. Instructor: Jennifer Hondru-Celestin. Register online at www.vanvleck.org, email

[email protected] or call 973-744-4752 ext 3.Time: 9:30am – 10:45amCost: $25 per class for General Public/$20 per class for Friends of Van Vleckwww.vanvleck.org MON., APRIL 2 Family Storytime@Kids Place, Bellevue Avenue Branch Library185 Bellevue Ave.Online registration is available for valid Montclair Public Library card holders. All others should call the Youth Services Department to be added to the waiting list.This program is designed for newborns through five year-olds accompanied by a favorite adult. Share books, stories, finger-plays, rhymes, and music with your chil-dren. Enjoy a story session that encourages a love of reading and fosters the development ofearly literacy skills. Children of all abilities welcome.Registration required (registration begins Monday, March 26).Time: 11amCost: Freewww.montclairlibrary.org TUES., APRIL 3 (THROUGH APRIL 29)Studio Montclair’s “By Chance” Exhibition@Montclair Public Library50 S. Fullerton Ave.This exhibition features work in various visual media in which chance or accidents led the artist

to examine and approach their work in a new way.Time: See website for hoursCost: Freewww.studiomontclair.org

WED., APRIL 4 (APRIL 5, 6, 7, 8, 13, 14 and 15)College Women’s Club of Montclair Used Book & Music Sale@Booksale Headquarters (opposite YMCA)26 Park St. (Lower level)Thousands of books and paper-backs, LPs, CDs, DVDs, Audio & Video Tapes, Sheet Music, Software, Ephemera, are sold at BARGAIN prices. We have an especially large collection of Civil War books, Women in Politics related books and a sterling col-lection of cookbooks this year. Wednesday, April 4th is children’s book day. April 8th teachers and librarians with ID receive a dis-count. On the last two days (April 14 & 15) a grocery bag full of books costs $5! Proceeds go to college scholarships for area girls. For more information email [email protected]: VariousCost: See website for information cwcmontclair.com

WED., APRIL 4Research Your Home’s History@Montclair Public Library, Local History Room (2nd Floor)50 South Fullerton Avenue This free workshop will assist you in discovering local resources available to help you research the history of your Montclair home and property. Space is limited. Registration is required. For more information, call 973-744-0500 ext.2235. Presented by the Montclair Historic Preservation Commission,

Montclair History Center, and Montclair Public Library.Time: 10am - NoonCost: Freewww.montclairlibrary.org WED., APRIL 4Looking Together (formerly Artful Outing)@Montclair Art Museum3 S. Mountain AvenueMAM invites people living with dementia and their care partners to explore art together during this free, interactive gallery program. Engage with current exhibition through docent-facil-itated gallery conversations and activities. To make a reserva-tion, please call 973-259-5136 or contact [email protected]. We request that each person with dementia is accom-panied by one family member or caregiver. Coordinators at care facilities please contact us to make an appointment for your group. Time: 2 - 3pmCost: Freewww.montclairartmuseum.org WED., APRIL 4, 11, 18, 25Senior Space@Montclair Public Library – Senior Space (1st Floor)50 South Fullerton Avenue The United Methodist Communities at PineRidge of Montclair, in collaboration with MPL and AngelaCARES, hosts a resource center for seniors in the library’s Senior Space. PineRidge of Montclair and AngelaCARES equip the space with resources and programs aimed at enriching the lives of local seniors. Senior Space programming takes place every Wednesday. Call the library reference desk at 973-744- 0500 ext. 2235 for the full calendar of upcoming events.Time: 10am - 2pm

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THURS., APRIL 5First Thursday Nights@Montclair Art Museum3 S. Mountain AvenueEnjoy an evening of art and dynamic programming including live music, tours, art activities, and a full-service bar. Check MAM website for monthly line-up.Free First Thursday Nights are made possible by a generous grant from TD Bank.Time: 5 - 9pmCost: Free www.montclairartmuseum.org

THURS., APRIL 5Homeschooling Open House@Montclair Public Library – Main Library Auditorium50 South Fullerton Avenue Check out the Library’s monthly Homeschooling open house and make friends with other families. Youth Services Librarian, Enola Romano, displays our collection of parenting books about homes-chooling. Bring your favorite board game to share! For more informa-tion email Enola Romano at enola.

[email protected]: 11amCost: Freewww.montclairlibrary.org

FRI., APRIL 6 (THROUGH MAY 19)Studio Montclair’s “Discovery in the Detail” Exhibition@Studio Montclair Gallery 127 Bloomfield Ave.An exploration, across visual media, of how new meaning can be found by focusing on close-up views of works of art. Opening reception on Friday, April 6, 2018 at 7pm.Time: See website for hoursCost: Freewww.studiomontclair.org

FRI., APRIL 6A Closer Look@Montclair Art Museum3 S. Mountain AvenueJoin us for informal 30-minute gallery talks that provide an in-depth examination of one or two works of art on view in the galleries. Tours led by MAM edu-cators and docents.Time: 2pmCost: Free with museum

admission/Free for memberswww.montclairartmuseum.org

FRI., APRIL 6, 13, 20, 27Yoga on the Plaza!@Montclair Public Library 50 South Fullerton Avenue The physical practice of yoga inte-grates spirit, mind and body while developing strength, flexibility, relaxation and general well being. All movements can be modified to decrease or increase the inten-sity. Class is an hour long alignment based vinyasa practice. Remember to bring a mat and water! This is an open level class presented by Misha Hajj, yoga instructor at the YMCA of Montclair. Class will be moved indoors as the weather dictates. Please enter through the café door.Time: 9amCost: Freewww.montclairlibrary.org

SAT., APRIL 7Dave Davies of The Kinks With Special Guest Chris Collingwood (Fountains of Wayne)@First Congregational Church40 S Fullerton Avenue

Join Outpost in the Burbs for an evening with Dave Davies of The Kinks and special guest Chris Collingwood (Fountains of Wayne).Time: 8 pm Cost: $40 advance/$45 doorhttps://outpost.ticketleap.com/dave-davies-2018/dates/Apr-07-2018_at_0800PM

SUN., APRIL 8A Sensory Celebration@Van Vleck House & Gardens21 Van Vleck StreetIn recognition of Autism Awareness Month, Van Vleck invites you to explore the gardens using your senses as your guide. What colors and shapes do you see? What sounds do you hear around you? What smells are in the air? Activity stations will bearranged outdoors and in our edu-cation center focusing on different textures, smells, shapes and colors in the natural world. Join us for a stress-free afternoon of garden discovery. Open to families.Time: 1 – 4pmCost: Suggested donation of $10 per familywww.vanvleck.org

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SUN., APRIL 8ReelAbilities Film Screening: Swim Team@Montclair Art Museum3 S. Mountain AvenueEnjoy a sensory-friendly art project, light reception, and film screening of Swim Team, which chronicles the extraordinary rise of the Jersey Hammerheads.Time: 2-5:30pmCost: Freewww.montclairartmuseum.org

MON., APRIL 9Monday Morning Yoga@Van Vleck House & Gardens21 Van Vleck StreetBegin your week with mindful Vinyasa yoga in the living room of the Van Vleck House overlook-ing the courtyard garden. Taking inspiration from the magnifi-cent natural beauty around us, we flow between postures at a slow to moderate pace, focusing on build-ing strength in body and mind. This class welcomes all levels from beginner to experienced yogis. Bring your own mat. Instructor: Jennifer Hondru-Celestin. Register online at www.vanvleck.org, email [email protected] or call 973-744-4752 ext 3.Time: 9:30am – 10:45amCost: $25 per class for General Public/$20 per class for Friends of Van Vleckwww.vanvleck.org

WED., APRIL 11Community Birthday Party

@Montclair Public Library 50 South Fullerton Avenue Celebrate our 125th anniversary with us! Join us on the plaza for storytime, balloon animals, games, and more! Time: 4:30pmCost: Freewww.montclairlibrary.org

WED., APRIL 11, 25Art in the Afternoon@Montclair Art Museum3 S. Mountain AvenueMAM invites area seniors to the Museum for an artistic social outing every second and fourth Wednesday of the month. Art in the Afternoon is offered in partnership with the Montclair Institute for Lifelong Learning (MILL), an initiative of Lifelong Montclair funded by the Partners for Health Foundation.Time: 2 - 3:30pmCost: $10/Free for memberswww.montclairartmuseum.org

WED., APRIL 11Park Bench@Montclair Art Museum3 S. Mountain AvenueParents with young children will enjoy MAM Park Bench, a program that introduces chil-dren to the Museum and serves as an artistic social outing. Get acquainted with other parents and young children, work on fun art projects, and take a guided tour of the Museum. The program is led by MAM Educator Angela Frasco and geared towards pre-school age children. Storytelling

provided in the galleries courtesy of the Montclair Public Library. Refreshments provided. Park Bench is made possible by an anonymous donor. Time: 9:30 - 11:30amCost: $18 per family/$6 per family for memberswww.montclairartmuseum.org

FRI., APRIL 13Scary Movie@Montclair Public Library 50 South Fullerton Avenue Enjoy the classic “library horror film” Desk Set and find out what happens when a computer threat-ens the livelihood of librarians! Time: 2pmCost: Freewww.montclairlibrary.org

SAT., APRIL 14125th Birthday Gala@Montclair Public Library 50 South Fullerton Avenue Celebrate after hours and get a sneak peek of the restored 1940 documentary featuring MPL and a first glance at renovation plans by Andrew Berman Architect. Tickets available online. Time: 7pmCost: $50 per personwww.montclairlibrary.org

SUN., APRIL 15Montclair Celebrates: 150th Anniversary @ Glenfield Middle School Auditorium25 Maple Ave.Montclair Middle School social studies teacher Dan Gill and his students have prepared a re-enact-ment of the first council meeting which was held April 15, 1968, marking the founding of the township of Montclair. A brief reception follows with a birth-day cake to honor the Township. The event is open to the public.

For more information, please call 973-509-4900.Time: 2pmCost: Free

SUN., APRIL 15Public Tour@Montclair Art Museum3 S. Mountain AvenueDiscover the Museum’s collection and special exhibitions through a docent-led tour every third Sunday of the month. Time: 2pmCost: Free with museum admis-sion/Free for memberswww.montclairartmuseum.org

MON., APRIL 16 Family Storytime@Kids Place, Bellevue Avenue Branch Library185 Bellevue Ave.Online registration is available for valid Montclair Public Library card holders. All others should call the Youth Services Department to be added to the waiting list.This program is designed for newborns through five year-olds accompanied by a favorite adult. Share books, stories, finger-plays, rhymes, and music with your chil-dren. Enjoy a story session that encourages a love of reading and fosters the development of early literacy skills. Children of all abili-ties welcome.Registration required (registration begins Monday, March 26).Time: 11amCost: Freewww.montclairlibrary.org

WED, APRIL 18The 5 Essentials of Composting@Van Vleck House & Gardens21 Van Vleck StreetThis fun lecture explains why composting is one of the most important steps toward improving

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your gardening experience, and the garden itself. Learn the Five Essentials of successful back-yard composting, what should go in or stay out of the heap, tips for making more compost faster, the many uses of compost, and appro-priate bin selection and placement. Composting is good for your soil, and good for your soul, and partic-ipants will leave this lecture with a much improved sense of humus. Instructor:Gray Russell, Sustainability Officer for the Township of Montclair. RegistrationRequired - Registration Deadline April 13th. To register: [email protected] or call 973-744- 4752.Time: 7 - 8:30pmCost: $15 per person for Friends of Van Vleck; $20 per person for General Publicwww.vanvleck.org

WED., APRIL 18Garden Discoveries: Germination Station@Van Vleck House & Gardens21 Van Vleck StreetAge: 3-5 year olds (accompanied by parent/caregiver)Our Garden Discoveries classes are designed to inspire children about the natural world around them. Since each child learns in a different way, every class exam-ines one topic through stories, outdoor exploration, and hands-on activities and specimens. Each class will include a guided hike, hands-on activities and a story. To Register: [email protected] or call 973-744-4752 ext 3.Time: 1-2pmCost: $10 per child for General Public/$7 per child for Friends of Van Vleckwww.vanvleck.org

FRI., APRIL 20Outpost in the Burbs: Million Dollar Bash Revisited: A Bob Dylan Tribute Show@First Congregational Church40 South Fullerton Avenue Million Dollar Bash Revisited: A Bob Dylan Tribute Show featuring The Kennedys, Lucy Kaplansky, James Maddock, and Bluebirds of Paradise (Ari Hest & Chrissi Poland)Time: 8pm/7:30 doors openCost: $30 advance/$35 doorwww.outppostintheburbs.org

SAT., APRIL 21Outdoor Adventures: Birds & Beaks@Van Vleck House & Gardens21 Van Vleck StreetLooking for something to do on a Saturday morning? Come to Van Vleck and visit our Education Center anytime between 10am and 1pm where an environmental edu-cator will discuss various topics relating to nature in and around the gardens. A simple craft will be offered, as well as supplies for a self-guided activity on the prop-erty. Everything you need to enjoy quality time with your family is here for you. Activities are designed for children ages 4 and up; however, all are welcome. All children must be supervisedby an adult. Rain or shine. Register online at www.vanvleck.org, email [email protected] or call 973-744-4752 ext 3.Time: 10am – 1pmCost: $5 per child; $10 per family; FREE for Friends of Van Vleckwww.vanvleck.org

SAT., APRIL 21Showdown Montclair@Upper Montclair Women’s Club200 Cooper Avenue

Join MFEE at Showdown Montclair to see a talent show and lip sync battle! You can party like a rock star and be one if you dare! Ten acts will compete for prizes and three lip sync teams will battle it out. All proceeds benefit the Montclair Fund for Educational Excellence.Time: 7 - 11pmCost: $50/$100http://mfee.org/showdown-mont-clair/show.html

SAT., APRIL 21Family Art Adventure@Montclair Art Museum3 S. Mountain AvenueExplore and discuss artworks in the galleries and engage in a fun hands-on project in the studio. This program is designed for children 6-12 and their adult companions. Time: 2 - 3:30pmCost: $18 per family/$6 per family for memberswww.montclairartmuseum.org

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SUN., APRIL 22Tours of the Historic Houses@ The Crane House and Historic YWCA and Shultz House 110 Orange Road and 30 North Mountain AvenueVisit one or both houses in one afternoon. The Crane House and Historic YWCA is a window on to the history of our nation from its early years as an independent country to a country embroiled in the civil rights struggle. The Shultz House (Evergreens) is a fully intact time capsule of a family that takes you back to life in the early 20th century Montclair. Tours of the Crane House & Historic YWCA are on the hour, last tour at 3 pm. Tours of the Shultz House are on the half hour, last tour 3:30 pm.Time: 1 - 4pmCost: $6, adult/$5, student or senior with ID/$4, child/under 2 and members free, good for both sites

www.montclairhistory.org

SUN., APRIL 22Rosedale Cemetery Tour@ Rosedale Chapel408 Orange RoadFounded over 150 years ago, Rosedale Cemetery marked the beginning of a new move-ment in how America took care of its deceased. We’ll venture into new sections for this guided tour, discussing grave imagery as well as the people who are buried there. The tour is about 2 miles of walking. Led by Executive Director Jane Eliasof, and Assistant Director Angelica Diggs. Carpooling is suggested due to limited parking on site and driving to distant parts of the Cemetery. Registration required. Call 973-744-1796 or send a note to [email protected].

Time: 1:30 - 3:30pmCost: $10 per person/Members freewww.montclairhistory.org

MON., APRIL 23Garden Club of Montclair April Program Meeting and Tea@United Way Building Auditorium 60 South Fullerton Ave.Mark your calendar for the Garden Club of Montclair’s April Program Meeting “An Introduction to Ikenobo Ikebana Floral Design.” Join the talented Senior Professor of Ikenobo Ikebana, Roberto Pagan, as we learn about the Japanese history through his demonstrations of the traditional art form. Enjoy tea and viewfloral design and horticulture competition entries following the presentation. Any questions, please contact 973-857-2662.Time: 1 -3pmCost: $5.00 suggested donation for non-membersgardenclubofmontclair.com/calendar/

MON., APRIL 23Monday Morning Yoga@Van Vleck House & Gardens

21 Van Vleck StreetBegin your week with mindful Vinyasa yoga in the living room of the Van Vleck House overlook-ing the courtyard garden. Taking inspiration from the magnifi-cent natural beauty around us, we flow between postures at a slow to moderate pace, focusing on build-ing strength in body and mind. This class welcomes all levels from beginner to experienced yogis. Bring your own mat. Instructor: Jennifer Hondru-Celestin. Register online at www.vanvleck.org, email [email protected] or call 973-744-4752 ext 3.Time: 9:30am – 10:45amCost: $25 per class for General Public/$20 per class for Friends of Van Vleckwww.vanvleck.org

SAT., APRIL 28Walk. Talk. Taste Montclair@ Front of the Lackawanna Station Discover the food and stories that make Montclair unique on this 3-hour food tasting and histor-ical walking tour of downtown Montclair. Sample foods from 6 to8 Montclair restaurants. Space is limited. Registration required


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to 973-744- 1796 or send a note to [email protected]. Time: 2pmCost: $45/$40 for Montclair History Center memberswww.montclairhistory.org

THURS, APRIL 263rd Annual Gaelen Family Artist Lecture: Kay WalkingStick and Kathleen Ash-Milby@Montclair Art Museum3 S. Mountain AvenueJoin MAM for an evening of dynamic dialogue between Artist Kay WalkingStick and Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian Associate Curator Kathleen Ash-Milby. Time: 7:30pmCost: $12 members, $15 non members, $5 students with ID, Free for MAM Contemporarieswww.montclairartmuseum.org

SAT, APRIL 28Free Shred-Fest: Celebrate Earth Day by Recycling Private Documents @Community Services Yard219 No. Fullerton Avenue

Montclair residents doing some spring cleaning can celebrate Earth Day 2018, and enjoy the peace of mind from seeing their confidential documents securely shredded, while saving money and boosting recycling. A paper-shred-ding truck will be provided. Bring paper in reusable contain-ers, or in paper bags or cardboard boxes – up to 20 lbs. each – but not plastic bags. Remember: confiden-tial paper documents only. This free service is for personal papers only, not for business documents. Hosted by the Montclair Office of Environmental Affairs, this event is free for all residents. For further information, contact the office of Environmental Affairs at (973) 509-5721, or, [email protected]. Time: 9am - 1pmCost: Freewww.montclairnjusa.org The annual “Montclair Shred-Fest!” will be held on Saturday, April 28, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., at the Community Services Yard, 219 No. Fullerton Avenue. This event is hosted by the Montclair Office of Environmental Affairs

SUN., APRIL 29Open Book/ Open Mind: The Power of a Black Superhero@Montclair Public Library – Main Library Auditorium50 South Fullerton Avenue The Power of a Black Superhero event will feature Cheo Hodari Coker, Executive Producer, Creator, and Head Writer of the Netflix TV show Luke Cage in con-versation with Gail Barringer, a Montclair resident and producer of Luke Cage. “Marvel’s LukeCage” is the third show in the Netflix-original Defenders series. The discussion willinclude the challenges of writing drama for a television series, the rise of comic bookheros and graphic novels, and the cultural importance of different superheroes.Time: 4pmCost: Freewww.montclairlibrary.org

SUN., APRIL 29Spring Family Day@Montclair Art Museum3 S. Mountain AvenueCelebrate your creativity and join the MAM community for a

fun-filled day inspired by Kay WalkingStick.Time: 1 - 4pmCost: FREE family level members and above/ $10 per nonmemer family (up to 6 people)www.montclairartmuseum.org

MON., APRIL 30Monday Morning Yoga@Van Vleck House & Gardens21 Van Vleck StreetBegin your week with mindful Vinyasa yoga in the living room of the Van Vleck House overlook-ing the courtyard garden. Taking inspiration from the magnifi-cent natural beauty around us, we flow between postures at a slow to moderate pace, focusing on build-ing strength in body and mind. This class welcomes all levels from beginner to experienced yogis. Bring your own mat. Instructor: Jennifer Hondru-Celestin. Register online at www.vanvleck.org, email [email protected] or call 973-744-4752 ext 3.Time: 9:30am – 10:45amCost: $25 per class for General Public/$20 per class for Friends of Van Vleckwww.vanvleck.org

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Fire or Police Emergency ..........................................................911Municipal Building, 205 Claremont Ave.... ............. 973-744-1400 Police Department, 647 Bloomfield Ave.... ............. 973-744-1234 Fire Department, 1 Pine Street..................................973-744-5000 Volunteer Ambulance Unit, 95 Walnut Street ......... 973-783-7624

Montclair Municipal Court, 647 Bloomfield Ave .... 973-509-4774 Community Services, 219 N. Fullerton Ave.... ......... 973-783-5600 Montclair Water Bureau, 54 Watchung Ave... ......... 973-744-4600Montclair Board of Education, 22 Valley Road ........ 973-509-4000Montclair Public Library, 50 S. Fullerton Ave .......... 973-744-0500

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