apriltime to invest
I am in front of MANY people each week. Between meetings, networking events, networking groups, social clubs, etc. I hear so many talk about how they “can’t afford to invest right now”. I don’t think they realize how much they are already investing, nor realize how important it is. In fact, one of the main issues is that most people limit their idea of the word “invest” to be in reference to trades you make with a financial advisor. Since April is our investment issue, I want to make sure you all realize there are so many other things to invest in.
Time is an investment. You and I are investing in each other right now. Me, while I am writing this.. right now. You, while you are reading this.. right now. I invest a lot of time, careful planning, and usually a few tears each month to put Wayne Lifestyle together and get it out to you. You, on the other hand, invest a slice of your very limited down-time to take a look at the result of that work. I am humbly appreciative of that investment from you.
So in the spirit of trying to point out to many people other avenues we can invest, we included a few stories that will help expand your viewpoint on investment.
Let’s start off with my own family’s estate planning attorney, our featured cover story protector, Ellen Goodman. There are MANY reasons you should invest some time with her because there are many ways you, your family, and even your business can be badly hurt by not properly planning. Even if you know this already, the article also talks about some things many people don’t realize or think about when their kids go off to college. Read it so you’re not left in the dark.
How about a story discussing investing in your own health? We have one for you where we talk about Dave Faccone, who has had two major health scares in less than a year and the realization of how many people get hurt because he neglected his health. He has made the changes and so can you…and so can I.
Want more success in trying to purchase real estate? Then read about investing in the right relationships…Thanks Peter D’Angelo.
There are so many ways to invest. Now get out there and invest in yourself and each other.
BARONE, PUBLISHER
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Phillip Barone | phillip.barone@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Don Seaman | don.seaman@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Officially Social | alison@officiallysocial.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Don Seaman, Peter D'Angelo, Lisa Baumann, Kristy Belley, Amy Salvagno, Angela Broockerd
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
John Agnello, Ellen Goodman, David Faccone, Wayne Hills Photo Ayden Acebo and Chad Thompson, Peter D'Angelo, Phillip Barone, Martha Sobanko Photography, Janie Jones
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 Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
city scene
1: The North Jersey Chamber Hosted A Ribbon Cutting For The British Swim Club In Fairfield 2: Waffles & Dreams Held Their Annual Galentine Event 3: To Top Off The Night, Waffles & Dreams Served Crepes, Waffles, and Mocktails. 4: The Galentine Event Had Games, Giveaways, Great Food, And Amazing Vibes. 5: Wayne Mayor Chris Vergano Helped Excite The Crowd At The Wayne Chamber Of Commerce Kickoff 6: The Wayne Chamber Of Commerce Board Members Beamed With Pride 7: The Wayne Rotary Held A Wine & Cheese Night At The Wayne PAL
Want to be seen in the magazine?
MICHELLE VERNUCCIO
AYDEN ACEBO -WAYNE HILLS PHOTO
CHAD THOMPSON -WAYNE HILLS PHOTO
AYDEN ACEBO -WAYNE HILLS PHOTO
PHILLIP BARONE
MARTHA SOBANKO PHOTOGRAPHY
MARTHA SOBANKO PHOTOGRAPHY
Wayne's New Chamber of Commerce
Wayne has a new Chamber of Commerce. It is headed by Joe Graziano, founder of Wayne Day, longtime township resident, and current President of the Nutley Chamber of Commerce. The chamber is dedicated to supporting businesses in Wayne and business leaders who live in Wayne. The group’s core mission is to serve as the leading voice for Wayne businesses, to connect their members, increase their visibility,and create opportunities to promote their businesses.
Legally Protecting Your Newly Adult Children Before They Need It
Invest In The Unexpected
ARTICLE BY DON SEAMAN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELLEN GOODMAN
Getting your child off to college is hard work. Once you’ve run the gauntlet of applying to schools, getting all the financing in place, stocking them up with everything they’ll need while they’re there, and settling them in, you finally can “relax.”
Then a month after they’re there, you get a panicked phone call from her roommate. There’s been an accident. Your daughter had fallen from a ladder while decorating for homecoming and hit her head. She’s unconscious and being brought to the hospital. She tells you where she’s being taken but that’s all you know.
You race out the door to get to her and take the most nerve-wracking drive you’ve had since you drove her home for the first time as a newborn.
But when you get to the hospital, they won’t tell you anything. Nor will the school. They can’t.
Legally, even though she’s your flesh and blood and you’re the next of kin, their hands are tied because she's 18. You have no authority here - even though your daughter is physically incapable of making medical decisions for herself right now. It’s not enough that you’re her parents. She’s an adult now, even though she’s still on an allowance.
She still needs your protection, but you can’t give it to her.
Unfortunately, the inconceivable isn’t always the result. So when your child turns 18, there’s one more thing you need to guide them through, that life is unpredictable and they need to legally be prepared for that.
Ellen Goodman is an estate-planning attorney who has seen first-hand what happens when you don’t have those legal protections in place.
“There was a bus accident and their child was involved. When they called the school, no one could even tell them if their child was alive or dead. That’s the reality.”
CONTINUED >
Ellen Goodman with her husband Jamil and their kids Macakayla and Emilia
There’s been an accident. But when you get to the hospital, they won’t tell you anything. Nor can the school. They can’t. She’s over 18.
The hospital won’t tell you anything. The banks won’t talk with you. You have no legal access.
The laws in New Jersey governing estate plans are extremely antiquated. There was no consideration for the blended families of today. Such as which mom makes the call, the biological one who suddenly comes back into the picture during the crisis or the one who raised you from before you could walk that you call “Mom”?
If your college age child passes away, you will need to contact the County Surrogate to open an estate, which is needed to close bank accounts and close social media and other digital assets. Any person who does not have a will, and has an estate over a certain amount, will result in the Surrogate requiring a surety bond being secured before the estate will
be opened. Could you imagine being required to pay hundreds of dollars to obtain a surety bond for the sole purpose of closing your child’s bank account?
Taking for granted that everything will be fair and easy is a mistake.
“I always say that the best time to do our estate plan is when you’re healthy. Panic planning is never good in any aspect of life,” Goodman warns. So she and her husband Jamil are naturally patiently waiting until their daughters, Macakayla and Emilia, turn 18 to get it in place for themselves.
Ms. Goodman offers a College Readiness Package that includes a financial Power of Attorney, Health Care Power of Attorney, HIPAA Release Form and a basic Last Will and Testament for college students. This package is done at a very
So when your child turns 18, there’s one more thing you need to guide them through, that life is unpredictable and they need to legally be prepared for that.
She helps them navigate the inevitable, to keep “the worst thing that could happen” from becoming even worse.
Everyone’s circumstances are different. The kid who has a hundred dollars in their bank account versus one who set up an investment account for themselves who now have several hundred thousand dollars in it are in different situations, financially. But legally, without power of attorney, there’s no difference if the child no longer is capable of making any decisions, whether because they’re incapacitated or they’ve passed away. It also gives them safeguards in case they run into trouble later and need your advice or assistance.
reasonable flat fee of a few hundred dollars. Similar to car and home insurance, ensuring that your college aged student has all of these documents in place is the best insurance that you can have for your child’s future. These are documents that are recommended to be put in place, and it is hoped are never used.
Her professional goal is aligned with her personal values: to help people. She helps them to understand their rights and how to put their own wishes together so that they are protected and taken care of should they become incapacitated and so that they have everything in place upon their passing.
For your child, they’ll know you’ll always be there for them.
As parents, you’re in the business of protecting your family. Thinking about the possibility of this being needed is hard. Being legally powerless in the face of tragedy is exponentially harder. But at least that’s something that’s avoidable.
Ellen Goodman is an estate-planning attorney who’s based in Rockaway. To set things up for your own family, she can be reached at 973-370-3025 and can be found online at goodmanlawnj.com .
Lisa Baumann's Magic Crepes
The Waffles & Dreams Owner Shares An Easy Game Changer
ARTICLE BY LISA BAUMANN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN AGNELLO
Crepes are the romantic counterparts to cozy pancakes. They evoke images of a Paris street cafe, paired with a steaming café au lait in the springtime. But you don't need to go all the way to France to enjoy some world-class crepes - you can make them yourself, in your own quite American kitchen, for a memorable and elegant start to your day.
ingredients:
• 6 cups of milk
• 1 carton of egg beaters
• 4 tsp vanilla
• 1/2 cup of sugar
• 6 cups of flour
• 1/3 cup of melted butter
• 3-4 tablespoons of butter for the pan for each crepe
steps:
1. Combine ingredients into a blender or food processor, or a large bowl to whisk by hand.
2. Blend on medium-high speed for 20-30 seconds (or whisk) until it's the consistency of cream.
3. Heat an 8-inch skillet with a couple of tablespoons of butter
4. Once skillet is hot, pour approximately 3 tablespoons of the batter into the center of the pan.
5. Tilt and swirl the pan until the batter reaches the edge of the pan
- thinner is better.
6. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the bottom is set. Flip and cook the other side for approximately 30 seconds.
7. Transfer onto a plate and repeat the process for the next crepe, re-buttering the pan with each new crepe.
8. Fill with your choice of melted chocolate, peanut butter, Nutella, jam, fruit, cinnamon sugar - wherever your taste buds take you!
9. Fold over and sprinkle with powdered sugar or syrup.
(Makes roughly 25 crepes)
Lisa Baumann
INVESTING IN YOUR HEALTH is everything
SOMETIMES, YOUR WAKE-UP CALL HAS TO RING TWICE.
ARTICLE BY DON SEAMAN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHILLIP BARONE AND DAVID FACCONE
David Faccone had a wake-up call that ultimately answered an issue he’d had his entire adult life. While enjoying his lunch at a charity golf event, he choked on a piece of steak. Six hours later, he was having an emergency endoscopy to physically remove it.
He’d had some choking scares before, but now he’d been officially diagnosed with a narrow esophagus. There’s medicine for that. Problem solved. But it wasn’t THE wake-up call.
The next one woke him up. It came silently yet relentlessly, innocently. It was spiking blood pressure. He’d always had mild high blood pressure, but he’d manage it himself. Then one night after a January bout with the flu and the decongestants that came with it, there was a pounding in his head that he couldn't ignore. It felt like his heart was going to beat right out of his chest. He drove himself to the hospital.
It was during that two-day hospital stay that he had an epiphany that would change his outlook.
“I’m lucky that I didn’t have a strokeor worse,” Dave admits.
“Throughout the ordeal, I thought about my 19-year-old daughter, Kalina, who’s the light of my life, my wife Lauren, and my entire family. Then I started thinking about the 80-plus families who benefit from my networking organization. They rely on me. I have so much to live for, and so many who count on me. A lifestyle change wasn’t just in order, it was something that I simply couldn’t ignore.”
“I quickly realized that some small changes can make a big impact on my health. Now, instead of plopping on the couch scrolling through social media, I’ll take that time to take a half-hour walk. Swapping out beer for ginger ale when I’m out with my friends watching our Premier League soccer isn’t a big deal. I simply had to develop different habits. I am making healthy food choices, exercising more often, and I feel better than ever.”
Dave runs a thriving business that simply wouldn’t work without him. He’s the crux of it all, through the relationships he’s built. He manages seven different professional networking groups in the area - and developing number eightthat all intertwine through him. Being the nucleus of all his networking groups is the value he provides to everyone, and a responsibility that he doesn’t take lightly.
“Even though my daughter is away at school, she insists upon keeping up our family traditions with us. What other kid comes home from college and insists we cut down our own Christmas tree together? Memories like these are irreplaceable, and I intend to create many more, for a long time to come.”
Investing in your health is investing in your relationships. These relationships mean everything to David, both personally and professionally.
“I have at least 14 different networking meetings a month. That’s a lot of coffee, a lot of planning, and a lot of running around to get things organized. But those new habits are in place and will let me manage things better for the long haul.”
To him, investing in your health is investing in your relationships. These relationships mean everything to him, both personally and professionally.
Despite his two health scares, Dave remains a relentlessly positive person. You won’t hear him say “why did this happen to me?”, but instead, it’s a feeling of “how can I be better for the sake of all the people that mean so much to me?”
“I’ve built my life around relationships. Helping others facilitate quality relationships is what I am most passionate about, and it is tremendously rewarding. Relationships are everything to me.”
For that, there’s no wake-up call needed.
"Business Matchmaker" David Faccone is the founder of the beSure business networking groups across our local area, where he connects people and ideas as a networking and sales mentor and event host. He can be reached at 775-623-7873 or at David@beSureUSA.com. You can also find out more at beSureUSA.com
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY PETER D'ANGELO
REAL ESTATE SUCCESS?
Relationships are the cornerstone of success, shaping our experiences and influencing our achievements. Nowhere is this more evident than in the real estate market. Buying a home is one of the most significant investments you’ll ever make, and the relationships you build during this process can determine your overall experience.
Investing in the right relationships isn’t just about networking— it’s about aligning yourself with professionals who understand your needs and are committed to helping you achieve your goals. This starts with selecting the right mortgage partner. Financing is the foundation of any real estate transaction, and working with a knowledgeable and responsive lender is crucial. A reliable mortgage professional will not only provide clarity on your budget but also guide you through pre-approval, setting you up for success from the start.
The Real Key Is Investing In The Right Relationships
Once your financing is secured, the next relationship to invest in is with a real estate agent. A great agent is more than just a salesperson—they’re your advocate. Look for someone who resonates with your needs and understands the market you’re exploring. Experience is important, but newer agents who’ve navigated the recent challenging market can bring fresh perspectives and adaptability. Most importantly, choose an agent who is responsive and has the availability to move quickly—speed and agility are essential in today’s fast-paced market.
An often-overlooked yet critical relationship is with your real estate attorney. In New Jersey, the attorney review period can make or break a deal. During this time, your offer is vulnerable to competing bids. Working with an attorney who specializes in real estate and isn’t tied up in court cases ensures your review process is swift and smooth, reducing the risk of losing your dream home.
Insurance is another vital component. The landscape of insurance in New Jersey is evolving, particularly with rising costs and new regulations. It’s not just about finding the lowest premium; it’s about understanding your coverage. A trusted insurance partner helps you navigate the complexities of policies, ensuring you’re adequately protected without unnecessary expenses.
Equally important is investing in the right relationship with a title company. Title insurance safeguards your ownership by protecting against claims or liens on the property. This crucial step secures your investment and provides peace of mind. Collaborate with your attorney to select a reputable title company for a seamless experience.
Ultimately, the success of your home-buying journey hinges on the relationships you cultivate. Surround yourself with a team of trusted professionals who prioritize your needs and work efficiently. This investment not only protects your financial interests but also ensures a positive and rewarding experience.
In real estate and in life, the right relationships make all the difference. Invest wisely, and you’ll not only achieve your goals but also build a foundation for future success.
Peter D'Angelo is the Producing Partnership Branch Manager for Rate, based in Totowa. He can be reached at 973-800-2538 or at peter.dangelo@rate.com.
Surround yourself with a team of trusted professionals who prioritize your needs and work efficiently. This investment not only protects your financial interests but also ensures a positive and rewarding experience.
ARTICLE BY KRISTY BELLEY
The drink that makes you look forward to TAX DAY
INCOME TAX cocktail
INGREDIENTS:
• 1½ oz. Gin
• ¾ oz. Dry Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Sweet Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice
• 2 Dashes Angastura Bitters
• Orange Twist
• Glass Type: Coupe
DIRECTIONS:
1. Squeeze your OJ.
2. Add everything to your shaker with ice.
3. Shake.
4. Pour into your coupe.
5. Twist your orange peel again, like you did last summer.
6. Garnish.
7. Enjoy being done with taxes.
8. And a good cocktail.
The Income Tax Cocktail likely popped up during the Prohibition party scene of the 1920s. Its exact origin story remains a bit blurry, but it was definitely a hit in speakeasies. The name? Well, it's like a cheeky nod to the idea that sipping on this cocktail might be more fun than paying actual taxes! Made with gin, sweet vermouth, orange juice, and a dash of bitters, it's like a boozy adventure for your taste buds, with hints of citrus and herbs. Despite its vintage roots, the Income Tax Cocktail still brings the party vibes, transporting you back to the roaring '20s.
Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?
Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction.
GREENS INVEST IN YOUR
DANDELION GREENS:
Dandelion greens are a nutritious and easy addition to any meal, perfect for salads or cooked dishes. They are rich in vitamins A, C, K, chlorophyll, and fiber, making them a great choice for digestion and overall health. Their light flavor and texture enhance salads and sandwiches.
BROCCOLI:
Broccoli is often hailed as a nutritional powerhouse, packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals that support overall health. Known for being high in vitamins A, C, and K, it also contains important minerals like potassium, iron, and calcium. In addition, it’s a rich source of beta-carotene, flavonoids, and fiber. Whether raw or cooked, broccoli is an excellent choice for immune system support, making it one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables available.
KALE:
Kale is loaded with essential nutrients such as vitamins C, B6, E, K, and manganese. It contains twice as much selenium as spinach and is an excellent source of calcium. Kale’s unique properties help bind to cholesterol and lower oxalate levels, which promotes calcium absorption and makes it suitable for those prone to kidney stones. Additionally, it provides eye health benefits, thanks to lutein, and its disease-fighting properties make it a great addition to salads, smoothies, and more.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Boost your health by adding a generous serving of fresh greens to your daily diet. While both cooked and raw vegetables offer health benefits, consuming them raw often provides the most nutrients. Raw greens are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, helping to lower inflammation and reduce the risk of disease.
ARTICHOKES:
Artichokes are not only delicious but also packed with fiber, which aids in digestion. They are a great source of plant protein, potassium, and antioxidants like polyphenols. Artichokes also provide essential nutrients, including vitamins C, K, folate, magnesium, and B vitamins.
ASPARAGUS:
Asparagus is versatile and can be enjoyed grilled, sautéed, baked, or even raw. Packed with vitamins C, E, B, K, folate, and copper, it’s a great source of fiber. It also helps lower cholesterol and provides a variety of antioxidants that aid in healing. Asparagus is a perfect side dish that complements both light and robustly flavored meals.
SPINACH:
Spinach is a popular green known for its mild flavor and impressive nutritional profile. Rich in vitamins A, C, K, as well as magnesium, potassium, and iron, spinach is great for overall health. It also provides antioxidants that support eye health and includes calcium for stronger bones. However, because spinach has a higher oxalate content, it should be consumed in moderation by those with a history of kidney stones.
BRUSSELS SPROUTS:
Brussels sprouts are a highly nutritious cruciferous vegetable, known for their vitamin C, K, and folate content, as well as carotenoids and fiber. These vegetables can be shaved, sliced, sautéed, boiled, or grilled, offering a range of flavors from mild to bitter, depending on preparation.
FAMILY TIME is the Best Investment
EAT DINNER TOGETHER AS A FAMILY.
This meaningful time around the table is where connections happen. Let everyone share good moments from the day or something they struggled with. Create a jar of conversation starters, exchange giggles and cook up something delicious.
CREATE SURPRISES
Everyone likes to feel special – and surprised. The littlest things make the biggest impact: A backyard picnic; a sleepover in an indoor fort; an after-school ice cream treat; a bathroom spa day.
CREATE FAMILY TRADITIONS
Build weekly or monthly traditions – movie nights with popcorn, board game marathons, a gratitude jar, evening bike rides, living room dance parties,
even a family book club to discover old favorites and new reads.
EXPRESS LOVE AND GRATITUDE
In busy seasons, it’s easy to forget to let a loved one feel appreciated and thought of. Tuck a hand-written note in a lunch box or give an unexpected hug; spend time sharing what you’re thankful for about them.
KEEP GENERATIONS LINKED
Consider Sunday meals with grandparents or weekly phone calls if distance separates. Invite them to share their childhood stories and treasured memories. Start a yearly family scrapbook filled with favorite photographs and vacation souvenirs.
