Let’s move forward. Together.
Welcome to the Investment Issue!
Investment, by definition, is the commitment of time, effort, energy, or finances toward something with the expectation of a meaningful return. We invest in so many aspects of life—our community, relationships, finances, and health. Supporting local businesses, schools, and organizations is one way to invest in our community, but that's just the beginning. There are so many volunteers and remarkable residents who dedicate their time, skills, and resources to making a difference.
Just like volunteers invest in their community, financial investment is essential for building wealth, achieving long-term goals, and ensuring a secure retirement. And on a personal level, investing in our families and personal relationships strengthens bonds and helps us develop deeper connections. This type of investment often holds the greatest value—not just for ourselves, but for the people who matter most.
While investing in all of these areas of life may take different forms for each of us, the common thread is the effort we put in to create meaningful results. In this issue, we explore various ways to invest in our community, financial well-being, and the foundation for a secure and fulfilling future.
I remain grateful for the opportunity to invest in our community through this magazine and to see it increasingly resonate with local residents. I’m also excited to welcome our new partners who share our commitment to supporting and enriching the community: Keller Wealth Management, Picatinny Federal Credit Union, Full Circle Sports Nutrition, The American BBQ Company, Advanced Care Services, The Beauty Loft, and Jill Marie Kelly. Their involvement helps us continue bringing local stories, events, and opportunities to our readers.
As always, if you have an interesting story to share, a business you'd like to introduce to the community, or a special announcement to celebrate, we would love to hear from you! Please send us your photos and details and you might just see your photo or story featured in an upcoming issue. And for more content, follow us on Instagram: @DenvilleCityLifestyle.
Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your lives and homes. Let's get to investing!
ALESSANDRA GUARNERI, PUBLISHER @DENVILLECITYLIFESTYLE
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Alessandra Guarneri alessandra.guarneri@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Lisa Kintish
lisa.kintish@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Brooke Micoletti brookemicolettiphotography@gmail.com
INTERN
Valerie Huidobro valeriehuidobro123@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Ryan Tullio/LAVated Productions, Alessandra Guarneri, William Keller, Mary Shadbolt, Samantha Grossman, Denville Rotary Club, MJ Salon, Sheeran Real Estate Group
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Proverbs
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: MxPro Tax Solutions celebrated its grand opening in Denville with Mayor Thomas Andes 2: Mary Shadbolt and other local artists pose at 'Serene Scapes' art exhibition at Urban Muse 3: Gourmet Cafe hosted a mozzarella making class: check out Chef Matt! 4: Our publisher Alessandra reading Denville City Lifestyle's first issue! 5: Denville Rotary Club hosted an emergency blood drive at the Denville Municipal Building 6: Dessertopia took over the Morristown Armory for a day full of sweet treats! 7: Members of the Denville Rotary Club were honored for their outstanding service
ALESSANDRA GUARNERI
ALESSANDRA GUARNERI
ALESSANDRA GUARNERI
SAMANTHA GROSSMAN
MARY SHADBOLT
BRIGITTE CARUCCI
ALESSANDRA GUARNERI
business monthly
Mary K. Sheeran to Receive Denville Good Scout Award
Mary K. Sheeran of Sheeran Real Estate Group has been named a recipient of the Good Scout Award. Presented by Scouting America, this award recognizes community members who go above and beyond in service, helping to make Denville a great place to live and work. Sheeran will be honored at a reception and dinner on April 10 at 6 PM, held in Rockaway. For tickets and more information, visit: scoutingevent.com/358-11thDenvilleGoodScout
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42nd Annual Denville Rotary Street Festival Seeks Vendors
The Denville Rotary Club is looking for vendors to participate in its annual Street Festival which will be held rain or shine on Sunday, June 1, from 11am-6pm, on Broadway in Downtown Denville. The festival will include food, carnival rides, a DJ, entertainment, and a 50-50 raffle. Proceeds support Santa Land, community beautification projects, monthly blood drives, scholarships for high school students, and more. If you're interested in participating as a vendor, visit: www.denvillerotarystreetfestival.com
MJ Salon Welcomes New Stylist, Jordan, and Offers Promotion
MJ Salon in Boonton is welcoming its newest stylist, Jordan! With a passion for the latest trends and personalized hair care, Jordan adds to the salon’s diverse expertise and creativity. To celebrate, the salon is offering a special deal for Jordan's first-time clients—20% off your service plus a free blowout with any color and haircut service. To book an appointment or learn more, call 973-265-0662.
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Photography by Sheeran Real Estate Group
Photography by Denville Rotary Club
Photography by MJ Salon
HOW ONE FINANCIAL EXPERT IS REINVENTING WEALTH ADVICE
From Suit to Startup
ARTICLE BY LISA KINTISH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY RYAN TULLIO/LAVATED PRODUCTIONS, WILLIAM KELLER
Anything difficult is worth doing, but you have to enjoy your journey.
After a successful career at an international corporation, William Keller realized his true passion was helping people achieve their financial goals—free from corporate barriers. This drove him to forge his own path. William took a leap of faith, leaving everything he knew behind to start his own company. Now, his journey serves as a powerful lesson—invest in your dream.
Keller Wealth Management provides a range of services, including asset management, budget recommendations, retirement strategies, and tax/risk assessments. In addition, William upholds a fiduciary duty to his clients, ensuring their needs come first, above all else.
“I’m a small business, just one call or text away,” William said. “It’s what I do full-time. I’m partnered with Charles Schwab, so they hold the assets—my company is not a brokerage house, I’m the advisor. It’s the best of both worlds. My clients’ money is with a top-notch security company, and I have a small firm feel which offers personalization.”
William emphasized his transparent, client-focused approach, setting himself apart from big corporations: “One-on-one help, no hidden fees – just the advisory fee. If I manage $100,000 for you, my fee is roughly one percent for the year: $1,000. With corporations, there are extra fees—but with me, it’s just an advisory fee. There’s no onboarding fee, and no fund fees. It’s straightforward.”
William has valuable corporate experience, but his greatest asset to clients is his personal dedication and passion. “I’ve always wanted to do this, and I will do this for the rest of my life,” William added.
So, what exactly does William provide for his clients? He creates portfolios and offers help with IRAs and retirement plans. “If you want to invest $10,000,
I’ll give you recommendations of funds that are right for you. I couldn’t do this at a big company, which would tell me which funds to recommend. This gives me full autonomy to help clients in the best way,” he added.
The first step for prospective clients is a 30-minute phone call to discuss their needs, both short-term and long-term. This also helps William assess each client’s financial knowledge and journey, whether they’re 22 or 62.
“I tell them how I can help them, based on where they are at and discuss the next steps to take,” William clarified. “I have quarterly check-ins with my clients to learn where they are and where they want to be.”
William’s own journey in finances began as an intern at Merrill Lynch while he was a student at Seton Hall. “This got me in the door for financial advising,” William explained. “It was a great job, my first professional work environment.” It was here that William developed a “passion to help others and make a difference.”
William then began his first full-time job at Prudential in Newark. After five years, he transitioned to Mondelez International, one of the world’s largest snack companies, home to brands like Cadbury and Chips Ahoy! —where he worked in corporate finance, specializing in revenue forecasting.
“When Covid happened, there was a shift in the business. Some people preferred Zoom and phone calls. This allowed me to create an LLC, Keller Wealth Management. I built it from the bottom up and have continued to do so over the past four years.”
Still, William needed to ensure he had enough money to support his family. He and his wife have three children, ranging in age from 3 months to 4 years old. Even though leaving his job would impact the family’s income, William couldn’t ignore his longing to “make an impact on people’s lives.”
“I wasn’t concerned that I couldn’t do this, but for my family’s financial ability for me to do it. I’d go from a safe, global company and job with a good income to taking a risk by creating an LLC. Honestly, in this business, it takes a high level of trust built over time,” William revealed.
Trust is a key word for William. Building his clients’ confidence is essential to maintaining strong relationships, especially during inevitable financial fluctuations.
“It’s like playing with a yo-yo, there’s ups and downs in the short-term, but an upward trend. Trust is what makes this job so special.”
William doesn’t expect people to come on board day one. The initial contact with a potential client marks the beginning of building trust and a lasting relationship. After the first phone call, most clients leave with a better understanding of the system.
Having transitioned from a corporate role to running his own small business, William shares his insights for others contemplating a similar leap. “You should, if you have a true passion, take the journey from corporate to starting your own business. It’s a good thing. Anything difficult is worth doing, but you have to enjoy your journey.”
Comparing starting a business to his upcoming family trip to Disney World, William said, “I expect tantrums along the way. I don’t expect every day to be perfect, but having realistic expectations is key to enjoying both good and challenging times. It’s worth it in the end. I created my LLC in 2020, but I didn’t quit my job until recently. Don’t compare yourself to others.”
For William, his personal investment seems to have paid off with happiness as its dividends.
“For my business, you want someone to take your finances and investments as seriously as you do and that’s what you have with me. When the market has a bad day, I take it as badly as anyone else, which doesn’t happen as much at the big companies as you’d think it would,” William said.
“With me, it’s a partnership. We’re talking about long-term goals and a long-term relationship. You’re getting someone who cares and is always looking at the long term. It’s understanding that the whole process is a trust process.”
For more information, visit kellerwealthmanagement.com.
DUTY FUELED, COMMUNITY DRIVEN
Meet Bill Keating: 47 years of investing in and strengthening the Denville community through service
ARTICLE BY LISA KINTISH
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BROOKE MICOLETTI
Most days, Bill Keating can be found at the Main Street Station of the Denville Volunteer Fire Department. “It’s my second home,” he mused.
It was in February of 1978 that Keating first stepped into the firehouse, becoming a member of both the Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad. At the time, he had been living in Denville for only a few years. His decision to join was driven by two factors: the encouragement of neighbors who were members and his desire to become more involved in the community.
“I always had an interest in first aid. It seemed like a good route to follow to become more involved,” Keating said.
Keating has always embodied a strong spirit of volunteerism, even at an early age. “I became interested in first aid while in the Boy Scouts. We were always training in first aid,” he said.
After high school, Keating served as a volunteer in the Air Force, where he received training in communications. Keating’s Reserve unit was activated in the Persian Gulf after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. He supported air operations over Afghanistan as part of a Tactical Communications unit under Operation Enduring Freedom.
Keating served in the Air Force and Air Force Reserve for 33 years, retiring as a Master Sergeant.
After his service, his responsibility shifted to his local community, where it remained equally important. On average, the Denville Fire Department responds to 1,200 calls a year. “We have a lot of critical calls. We have saved lives, we’re there when someone is injured or sick and we make it better for them,” Keating revealed.
“Most are Denville residents, so I see them around. It’s great to see them back on their feet.”
Unlike the Fire Department, the Rescue Squad no longer offers round-the-clock service, sharing its responsibilities with Morris County’s EMS and Saint Clare’s Hospital, due to lack of volunteers.
Keating emphasized the ongoing need for more participation. Monday nights after 7:30pm is a good time to visit the Main Street Station, located across from the ACME Shopping Center,
uniforms lined up in cubbies at the Denville Firehouse
TOWN AFTER
WE’VE HELPED THEM. JUST SEEING THEM ALL RECOVERED LIFTS MY SPIRITS."
"IT’S NICE TO SEE PEOPLE AROUND
although alternative meeting times can be arranged. To join or inquire about doing so, simply show up and ask to speak with a Chief. Anyone 16 years of age or older is eligible to apply.
“We pay for all of the training— 90 percent is in house, only the most advanced courses go out of town, but we still cover the cost,” said Keating. “We try to keep training as local as we can.”
The hometown hero acknowledged with a laugh that most members aren’t at the
firehouse as much as he is. Ideally, a volunteer can commit to at least two nights a week.
“The first year is the toughest because of the training—it eases up after that,” he explained.
Off-call, volunteers work on paperwork, truck maintenance, fire drills, general upkeep, and other tasks.
Even with the demanding work, the atmosphere remains friendly and positive. “We always try to maintain an easy-going atmosphere. We have a BBQ in the summer and a few times a year we have get-togethers. We make sure people are happy to be here.”
After 47 years of service with the Fire Department, Keating continues to be as happy as ever.
Bill Keating standing in front of a Denville Fire Department vehicle
“I enjoy it very much—it’s very interesting. It’s a lot of work, but I still have a lot of interest in it. It’s nice to see people around town after we’ve helped them. I’ll see them in the store—just seeing them all recovered lifts my spirits,” Keating added.
Becoming more involved in the community has brought a close-knit group of people into Keating’s life. “I met a lot of nice people here. I had pneumonia last year and the members helped me out a lot. They stopped by every day to see me. It
meant a lot to me because I was really sick.”
Keating warmly remembered how the department supported him during his service in the Persian Gulf as well, saying, “The department was very supportive of me. They sent me packages and letters.”
“Denville is one of the nicest towns I’ve ever been associated with and working with the Fire Department has been a great experience.”
A community is only as strong as its residents, and Keating embodies the neighbor we all wish to have. He proves that investing in our hometown not only strengthens the community but also deepens our connection with it.
“Tyler Pontier is the best and you will NOT find another realtor like him.
He listens to his clients, he’s with you every step of the way, is well-connected to help meet your every need/expectation, and he keeps the information that you provide to him confidential. I recommend working with Tyler whether you want to buy, sell, or are looking for advice. He’s the whole package!” - Lan
Tyler Pontier Properties work with ALL people in ALL price points with a focus on Luxury and Marketing. 374 Speedwell Ave, Morris Plains, NJ 07950 | 908-872-6343 tylerpontierproperties.com | tyler.pontier@randrealty.com
Experience
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• Compassionate,
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Expert Strategies for Hassle-Free Home Loans
MEGAN DE TORE MCDERMOTT OFFERS INSIGHTS ON THE MORTGAGE PROCESS.
Megan De Tore McDermott
Whether you’re buying your first home or refinancing, having an experienced team to guide you is essential. Megan De Tore McDermott, originating branch manager at CrossCountry Mortgage in Denville, has spent 22 years helping people succeed in homeownership. She shared her expertise to help simplify the mortgage process.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A MORTGAGE LENDER?
After a year as a sales assistant and learning the components of the mortgage industry, I realized I had the ability to be an advocate for homeowners in an efficient and honest way. I am straightforward and my integrity means everything. I am here to educate, advocate, and advise clients to make the best financial decisions [for them].
WHAT’S THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTION ABOUT MORTGAGES?
Everyone asks: ‘What’s your rate?’ It’s not what my rate is— it’s the rate that you qualify for. The misconception is that any lender can throw out a rate. The person must qualify. There’s many different loan programs, so it goes way deeper than setting an interest rate.
WHAT ARE SOME EXTERNAL FACTORS THAT DETERMINE WHEN TO BUY AND WHEN TO WAIT?
You’re buying a home for one of two reasons, or a combination of both. Life circumstances, [meaning] you’re going to have to accept the terms of the market at that point…or you want to move because you have the money to move. If it makes sense for you to purchase a home and you can afford it, the market conditions are going to be the market
ARTICLE BY LISA KINTISH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEGAN DE TORE MCDERMOTT
conditions. The market is a rollercoaster— sometimes it’s up, sometimes it’s down, but it’s never standing still. There’s always an opportunity for refinancing.
HOW CAN SOMEONE IMPROVE THEIR ELIGIBILITY TO GET A MORTGAGE?
One factor in qualifying to get a mortgage is your credit score. Being in the business for 22 years, I’m a credit expert. If someone doesn’t qualify initially, I’ll give them suggestions on what they can do—maybe in three months they can get to a place where they do qualify. Your income is going to dictate what you can afford monthly, which will dictate your purchase price in conjunction with a downpayment.
HOW MUCH MONEY SHOULD SOMEONE SAVE FOR A DOWNPAYMENT?
Because of the competitiveness of the market, homes are selling well over asking and there are multiple offers. Sellers tend to accept offers with terms that are the least risky—having a larger downpayment can help, but there is no golden number. New Jersey’s Grant Program can provide an extra $22,000 for eligible buyers.
WHAT’S THE MOST REWARDING PART ABOUT HELPING PEOPLE SECURE A HOME LOAN?
When a person was turned down at another lender or doesn’t think they’re in [the right] financial position and we figure out ways to get them qualified. At the end of the day, my job is to win. I want to win, I want my buyers to win, and I want the agents to win. When you are all working toward the same goal and you’re changing people’s lives by putting families into homes, it is the most rewarding thing ever. For more information, contact Megan De Tore McDermott at behappywithyourmortgage.com.
“When you have an agent and lender who are in sync and working strategically with a buyer, that’s when you execute the best results.”
BERRY
SMOOTHIE BLAST
Kick-start your morning with this breakfast smoothie
by Derek Lipton of Full Circle Sports Nutrition
Whether you’re heading to school or work, mornings can be rushed, leading many people to skip breakfast. This can leave you feeling sluggish, reduce focus and performance, and negatively impact your workout quality later in the day.
That’s why I love this quick and easy breakfast smoothie—which you can prepare the night before or make in the morning for a convenient, on-the-go option. Regardless of appetite or time, this antioxidant-rich smoothie ensures an energizing start to your day!
BERRY BLAST SMOOTHIE:
DIRECTIONS:
1. Add ingredients to blender in order listed (no ice needed)
2. Blend for 30-60 seconds (until desired consistency)
3. If you desire a thinner consistency, add a little more milk and blend for another 10 seconds.
4. Pour into an insulated bottle or thermos, and enjoy!
NOTE: If you’re making this smoothie the night before, store it in a glass cup or container and cover it in the fridge.
INGREDIENTS:
• 10 oz. milk (skim, 1%, or 2% — based on caloric needs)
• 1 scoop whey protein powder (or 2 scoops plant-based powder)
• ¾ cup frozen blueberries
• ¾ cup frozen strawberries
• 1-2 tbsp. honey
• 2-3 tbsp. flax or chia seeds
APRIL 6TH
Celebrate the Children's First Annual Neurodiversity Walk
Gardner Field, 2 Savage Road, Denville, NJ | 9:00 AM
Join Celebrate the Children for an exciting family fun event supporting neurodiversity awareness. This local Denville school is holding its first, but not last, Neurodiversity Walk. All walkers are required to register. Donations are encouraged and sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, visit www.celebratethechildren.org.
APRIL 7TH
Taste of North Jersey
Hilton Garden Inn, 375 Mt Hope Ave., Rockaway, NJ | 5:00 PM
Come hungry and enjoy the flavors of North Jersey at this one-night celebration honoring our corner of the Garden State. The festivities include food tastings, a cash bar, door prizes, giveaways and more. There are so many great culinary establishments in one location! The event has two entry times: 5pm-7pm and 7pm-9pm. For tickets, visit twogirlsmedia.ticketleap.com
APRIL 10TH
Scouting America Hosts 11th Denville Good Scout Awards
Winnebago Scout Reservation Dining Hall, 102 Timberbrook Rd., Rockaway, NJ | 6:00 PM
Help honor the recipients of the Denville Good Scouts Award at a reception that includes dinner, dessert, the awards presentation, fellowship and live scholarship auction. For more information, contact Jennifer Volz, 973-765-9322, ext. 249, or jennifer.volz@scouting.org.
APRIL 11TH
Randolph Flashlight Egg Hunt
Veterans Community Park, 100 Calais Road, Randolph, NJ | 6:00 PM
An egg hunt during the day is too easy! How about trying at night? Bring a flashlight! For children ages 2-12, $5 per child. There are six 15-minute sessions, running from 6pm until 9:30pm. Spots are limited. The first session is for neurodivergent children and their siblings. Register online. Questions? Contact Kristina Garlick, kgarlick@randolphnj.org
New Jersey’s Premiere B-B-Q Catering Company
Since 1996, the American B-B-Q Company has been specializing in gourmet catering events of all sizes. Backyard birthday parties, weddings, graduations and any other excuse to have family and friends gather, is a reason to call us. Request
Backyard BBQ Parties
CONTINUED
APRIL 19TH
Spring into Downtown Denville
Broadway, Downtown Denville | 11:00 AM
After a long, cold winter, it's time to celebrate spring at this free event, which will include egg hunts and the Easter Bunny.
APRIL 25TH
The Gatsby Gala Tricky Tray
White Meadow Lake Country Club, 100 White Meadow Road, Rockaway, NJ | 5:30 PM
A fun time and a good cause, it's a winwin! The Gatsby Gala Tricky Tray runs from 5:30pm until 11pm. It's hosted by the Rockaway Borough Home and School Association and Kimberly Merrick. There will be a dazzling soirée of prizes, laughter, and vintage charm.
APRIL 26TH
Mountain View Veterinary
Open House Celebration
Mountain View Veterinary, 291 Route 46, Denville, NJ | 1:00 PM
All pet parents are welcome to join Mountain View Veterinary at its open house. The festivities start at 1pm with a ribbon cutting ceremony and continue until 4pm. There will be food trucks, raffles, and tours. Due to space constraints and safety concerns, pets will not be allowed inside the building.
APRIL 27TH
3rd Annual Main Street Car, Bike, & Truck Show
Main Street, Boonton | 10:00 AM
Boonton Parks & Recreation is presenting its third annual Car, Bike, & Truck Show on Main Street. The event welcomes classic collectors and modern fans. It will also include live music from a DJ, vendors, and plenty of food.
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