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Going the Distance How to navigate living apart from your loved ones.
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Month-by-Month Baby Milestones Track the most important developments your baby should make during their first year.
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Family-friendly Restaurants The best and most convenient places for parents and kids to dine out.
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College by the Numbers Some fun facts about our collegiate years.
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21st Century Classroom A look at how modern times have impacted education.
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Summer Fun at the Hoboken Library From book clubs and volunteer programs to reading competitions and homework help.
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7 Kid-Approved Superfoods Delicious and nutrient-rich ingredients to add to your child’s diet.
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Round-the-Clock Summer Cocktail Recipes Seasonal favorites from Super Buy-Rite JC.
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Local Events
Stowaway Collection:
Style for Expecting Moms Hoboken’s Stephanie Manganelli talks starting her own maternity line and dressing during pregnancy.
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Create a Home You Love Living In • Homebuyer Support • Vision & Planning Sessions • Full Home Renovations • Design & Build Services • Historic Brownstone Remodeling • Hands-on From Concept to Completion
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FROM THE EDITOR “Family” has always been such a broad term. When we start tossing ideas around for our annual Family Issue, we always find ourselves bringing in a little bit of everything: from education and community, to parenthood and partnership—all these parts have a role to play. Like any true family, there are so many bits and pieces that define us but in the end, they are meant to be bound together like the bindings of this book. This summer has been extra special for me in the way of family, as I made a solo journey to Venice to meet my cousin. Embracing one another like no time had passed since we’d last seen each other was a shock, simply because we’d never truly met before. Despite a language barrier, spotty WiFi service for our preferred method of communication (WhatsApp) and never having a relationship, nothing could stop us from feeling as though it was the latest of many reunions. You see, the most natural of all stories start with family—and the Stowaway Collection’s story is no different. When Hoboken mom Stephanie Manganelli and her mother, Debbie, created their brand, they decided to add a bit of style to the maternity fashion world. Rather than design clothes that were meant to hide a pregnancy, they decided to create garments that celebrate and embrace it. Stowaway recognizes that, similar to the concept of “family,” a pregnancy is so much more than an ephemeral blip in the radar of a woman’s journey through motherhood. These milestones bring us together, and it’s something to be proud of.
MICHAEL SCIVOLI Editor
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Publisher JASON UNDERBERG Publishing Director BRIAN KOVENER Editor MICHAEL SCIVOLI Editorial Assistant ABBY MONTANEZ Marketing & Event Director JAMIE LAWRENCE Senior Designer CHRISTINE CHIMENTO Photographers MAGED SAMUEL Cover Photo STOWAWAY Distribution Manager CRAIG KOVENER Contributing Writers ROSY ALVAREZ KIERA MITRU NEIL SHRODO
A Unity Media Group Publication 201-850-1300 | www.thedigestonline.com
The publisher takes no responsibility for the accuracy of the information or claims of any advertiser in this publication. The advertiser is solely responsible for the info, statements, claims or warranties mentioned in their advertorial or advertisement. Reproduction of, or use without written permission of the publisher, of editorial, periodical, or design content of any manner is strictly prohibited.
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Going the Distance: How to Navigate Living Apart from Your Loved Ones By Kiera Mitru
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Upon hearing about a “long distance relationship” many picture significant others living across the country from one another, or even across oceans. However, there are many strong relationships in our lives that are impacted by the distance that exists between us and those we love—one of the most important of these being the relationship we have with our family members. Whether you’re anticipating a
six-week-long sleep-away summer camp, the first semester of college, time abroad, or a cross-country move, living apart from those you love the most can be a challenge, and we’re here to help you “go the distance.” The likeness of social media has made long-distance and international communication near constant, however, there are many factors of a relationship that can not be conveyed virtually. One’s body language, facial expressions, or personality may not necessarily
translate during a video call or series of text messages. In order to avoid miscommunication in this respect, it is important to consider the disconnects that may occur when expressing oneself through an online platform. Be sure to share with your loved ones how you’re feeling, and do not be afraid to fill them in on the good, the bad, and the ugly. Your family and friends back home will support you no matter what, and it’s important to ask them for help or advice when you need it.
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ith this being said, when transitioning into a new living environment or culture, it is important to limit contact with those from home, since it may make the adjustment more complicated. If you regularly find yourself wishing for familiar people and situations,
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it keeps you from exploring and becoming more connected to the present moment and the opportunities that surround you. This may be difficult for both parties, so in order to distract yourself from feeling isolated, make a “bucket list” of places you would like to visit in the country or area you’re new to. Once you have a fair amount of confidence in your friend group and your new home, reach out to your family and friends and fill them in on what they have missed. Since we all live busy lives, it may be difficult to hold individual conversations with each loved one every time you wish to update them. Another way to get your message across is by sending a general email regarding your experience abroad, at college, or across the country to those you would like to update on your life. Your friends and family will appreciate that you thought to keep them in the loop and also value their time. Doing so will allow recipients of the message to reach out with questions or maybe their own updates. Be sure to share pictures and experiences with those you love so they can be sure that
you’re continuing to learn alongside them, even if you are halfway around the world. Some may believe that “snail mail” or sending letters has become obsolete in the face of a world run by technology, but that could not be farther from the truth. When sending a letter, the exchange of information becomes more visceral, and adds a personal touch to the words you share. Additionally, many towns, cities, and colleges have postcards that can be sent to those that are far away. Postcards allow you to share a small blurb of writing, a picture that illustrates your new home, and can even serve as a collectible item. It is entirely normal to feel homesick when moving away from the things and the people you know. It is also expected for those that you move away from to miss you. The most important part of any relationship is communication and with a plethora of new ways to hold conversations with those around the world, fostering international relationships has never been more possible. As they say, distance means so little when someone means so much.
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Month-by-Month Baby Milestones By Kiera Mitru
After nine months of building anticipation, the birth of a baby is followed by a lifetime of milestones and accomplishments— the more sentimental of which happen during their first trip around the sun. Parents and loved ones look forward to witnessing a baby’s first smile, first steps, and first words.
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During the typical low-risk pregnancy, there are a series of check-ups and ultrasound appointments to confirm the growth and health of the developing baby as well as the mother’s medical stability. With lots of outside resources and people to reference during this period, it is easier to trust the word of the doctors and nurses that guide you through the nine months of pregnancy. After the baby has been born, however, there may not be as many helpful hints or pointers given to you as you navigate the early stages of your child’s life. While it is easy to be eager to hold your baby’s hand through these major moments, it is important to remember that each baby is unique and can meet these goals at different times. It would be unfair to evaluate the growth and development of all children along the same timeline. With that being said, this list of month-tomonth milestones is meant to loosely resemble the physical expectations of a growing baby.
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month During the first month, your baby’s senses are still developing, and he or she will frequently test them out in order to learn more about the world they have been recently been born into. • Baby notices faces • Baby notices bold patterns • Baby will recognize the sound of surrounding voices (e.g. Mom, Dad, and Grandparents) • Baby will begin to “coo” beyond crying • Baby will start to bring his or her hands around the eyes and mouth • Baby will start to move legs and arms when lying on his or her stomach
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months As you enter the second month, the expected milestones should be monitored a bit more closely. If your baby does not meet these, your pediatrician may want to evaluate further. For example, if your baby is not able to visually follow an object, this may indicate a condition or issue that your pediatrician would be more apt to address. • Baby starts to smile at people • Baby calms themself (e.g. bringing their hands to their face to self-soothe) • Baby begins to follow people and objects with his or her eyes, and can recognize a person from a distance • Baby will begin to fuss or cry if an activity becomes boring • Baby can hold his or her head up • Baby begins to push when lying on its tummy • Movements with arms and legs become more swift
3
months By the time the third month rolls around, your baby will begin to develop emotional skills such as crying in order to express feelings or the ability to redirect attention away from what they find boring. • Baby can distinguish your face from others • Baby will develop different sounding cries for different reasons (e.g. a diaper change, being hungry, being in pain, etc.) • Baby will redirect his or her attention to something else if they become bored • Baby begins to open and shut their hands • Begins to reach for and swipe at swinging objects • Baby will follow moving objects with his or her eyes • Baby will be able to turn his or her head in the direction of noises as they are heard • Baby will enjoy playing with people and toys and may fuss when the playing is interrupted July | August 2019
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4
months At this point, your baby is no longer considered a newborn! During the fourth month, he/she becomes more alert and excited about the world around them. • Baby will erupt in fits of laughter and giggling • Baby will have the tendency to copy facial expressions • Toys and objects, as they become more interesting, will encourage baby to reach for them with one hand • Baby will begin to hold their head steady and unsupported • When lying down on the tummy, baby will push up onto his or her elbows
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months By the fifth month, your baby will begin to build the foundation for skills that become more important later on in the progression of milestones. Again, if your baby is hesitating to reach any of these milestones it may indicate that there is an issue at hand and, in this case, it is important to communicate any concerns that you may have with your pediatrician. • Baby rolls over from tummy to back • Baby explores toys and items by putting them in their mouth • Baby begins to babble beyond a simple “coo” • Mirrors become mesmerising and he or she will love to look at themselves • Your baby will begin to entertain himself/ herself for intervals of time
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6
months Towards the middle of the sixth month, your baby might be ready to accomplish some major milestones like mobility, for example. If mobility (crawling, squirming, etc.) is not completely achieved at this point, there is no need to worry—this milestone is one that typically has a wider range of time within which it is expected to happen for most babies. • Baby will begin to slowly move across the floor • Baby will pass items between two hands • Baby can sit up without assistance • Simple words will become familiar and understood • Baby will respond to his or her name
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As you approach the seventh month, your baby will begin to alter and play with the objects around them in order to learn more about them—how scientific! While this is encouraging, it may become annoying as your baby’s curiosity surrounding an item may result in it being continuously dropped onto the floor, but the learning process has to begin somewhere!
Before you know it, your baby will begin to develop mobility skills, and since this typically starts during the eighth month, this is where babyproofing your living environment becomes important. It is good to keep in mind that this stage of development is also given a wider range of time to occur within, so do not be concerned if your baby does not start crawling immediately.
• Baby enjoys to drop things on the floor for the sake of experimentation • Baby plays/enjoys simple games like peekaboo and patty cake • Begins to react to the response “no” • Baby will begin to uncover partially hidden objects
• Baby starts to develop and use a “Pincer Grasp,” or coordinate their index finger and thumb to work together • Baby begins to crawl • Baby can stand while holding onto something to steady his/her self
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9
months During the ninth month, your baby will begin to incorporate more than one pitch when babbling. There is no need to fret when he or she does not utter the longawaited “Mama” or “Dada”, there is no specific time that the first words should be spoken as long as your baby is constantly making progress to speak simple words and phrases. • Baby may be nervous around other people and clings to familiar people for security • Baby will have favorite stuffed animals and toys • Baby will mumble lots of different sounds like “mamamama” or “babababa” • The gestures and sounds of other people will become more interesting to baby, and your baby will begin to repeat them • Baby will begin to point to people and things
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months At this stage, it is good to begin socializing your baby by bringing them to playgroups and introducing new people and kids into their lives. At this stage, their motion ranges anywhere from crawling to walking, and all of these are right on track at the 10-month mark. • Baby will begin to shake, bang, and throw things in order to explore them in new ways • Baby will pull themselves up to stand • Baby will shuffle forward while using walls and furniture to steady his or her movements • With better hand-eye coordination, baby will begin feeding his/herself finger foods • Baby will be able to get into a sitting position without help 28
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months It is okay if your baby is not walking or cruising by the time they approach the eleventh month, as long as he or she is making constant forward progress to meet this checkpoint, and other social or verbal goals. While it may be frustrating that your baby has not met the milestone of walking, it is important to enjoy every level of your baby’s progression as it happens. By forcing your baby’s mind to develop faster than it is, you may miss out on the value of the present moment. • Baby understands that objects still exist even when they can not be detected by the senses (object permanence) • Baby attempts to crawl up the stairs (supervision of this process is highly suggested) • Baby’s babbling becomes more coherent and begins to mimic speech • Baby develops separation anxiety when they are separated from what it is that makes them feel secure
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months During the twelfth month, your baby is now considered a toddler! As you round the corner of your baby’s first birthday, it is a good time to reflect on all of the amazing progress he or she has made in just one year. • Baby responds to simple requests and conversation • Your baby will begin to shake his or her head “yes” or “no” and wave “hello” or “bye-bye” • Baby will use “Mama” and “Dada” more frequently, as well as expressions like “uh-oh” • Baby will be able to direct his or her attention to images and objects when they are identified • As desired, baby will be able to reach for and hold his or her own bottle • Baby may begin to take steps without using objects or people to steady their wobbly motion • Baby will be able to stand on his or her own
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FAMILYFRIENDLY RESTAURANTS
Where to Eat in Hudson County Being new to the area, or simply a new parent, can make things a little harder when deciding where to dine out. Luckily, Hudson County is full of family-friendly options that are not only ideal for kids, but serve delicious food. So if you find yourself out on the town, don’t let stroller storage or unwelcoming venues stop you. With these kid-approved restaurants in your arsenal, any day is a good day to eat out.
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HOBOKEN Bareburger 515 Washington St, Hoboken, NJ 07030 Since its opening in Hoboken, Bareburger has quickly become one of our favorite local chains. A burger and fries might not be the first thing that comes to mind when taking the kids out for a healthy lunch, but Bareburger has centered their menu around serving organic and free-range items. In addition to a kid’s menu—which includes salad, apple slices and fries—the brand caters to children with crayons, balloons, colorful decor and more. Downtown spots aren’t known for being incredibly spacious, but the staff here is always accommodating no matter how busy it gets.
Elysian Cafe 1001 Washington St, Hoboken, NJ 07030 With so many things changing since Hoboken’s early days of gentrification, it’s not always easy to find a trendy place that calls back to the city’s history. Even harder still, one that is accommodating to parents with kids in tow. Like other venues on this list, Elysian Cafe is another great outdoor option. But on a more unique note, on Tuesday’s from 5-8pm the FrenchAmerican bistro allows kids under 12 to eat for free with the purchase of your entrée (two children per adult).
Pilsner Haus & Biergarten 1422 Grand St, Hoboken, NJ 07030
Johnny Pepperoni 4323, 219 11th St, Hoboken, NJ 07030
If you’re new to Hoboken, Pilsner Haus may not sound like a place for kids. But on the contrary, provided you’re not going after 8pm on a Saturday night (when there’s more of a party vibe), the Grand St venue has long been a great place for families to get together and have a meal. With tons of space for kids and a large outdoor seating area, it doesn’t matter how deep you roll. Pilsner Haus also has an additional kids menu featuring favorites such as grilled cheese, chicken fingers and french fries.
Not only did Johnny Pepperoni’s pizza garner an exceptional 7.6 score from Barstool Pres. Dave Portnoy, but this venue has long since established itself as a Hoboken family-favorite. Yet another spot with great outdoor seating, their thin crust pizza (and children’s menu) is an instant hit with kids. From its warm, inviting interior details and much-welcomed BYOB option, Johnny Pepperoni’s is not only a perfect fit for families but cost-effective, too.
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JERSEY CITY Brownstone Diner and Pancake Factory 426 Jersey Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07302 There are countless reasons why Brownstone is considered one of the best diners in Hudson County, but there are few greater than the fact that the idea of “family” is ingrained into the bedrock of this business. Established in 1968, owned and operated by a closeknit family, Brownstone just feels like home. We’re talking first-name basis with the wait staff and food that tastes homemade. Not only are the menu options ideal for kids (as the name implies) but its centralized location in Jersey City makes it an easy local hotspot.
The Hamilton Inn 708 Jersey Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07302
Left Bank Burger Bar 194 Newark Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07302
The Hamilton Inn’s corner location might be unassuming when it comes to picking a family spot, but it’s a neighborhood family favorite for a reason. Though it’s advised to come during weekday afternoons with little ones, The Hamilton Inn features a kid’s menu that includes mini pizzas, chicken fingers and pasta with tomato sauce or butter (for the picky eaters). In addition to its close proximity to Hamilton Park, the restaurant also has high chairs and a changing station—all the conveniences any parent needs while out on the town.
Left Bank Burger Bar is one of those spots that just gets it when it comes to kids. Aside from becoming a Jersey City staple for a great grassfed burger, their menu is just naturally appealing to kids. Mini sliders and coloring books at Left Bank are sure to hold their attention while you indulge in one of their house-made specialty burgers. Affordable prices for both kitchen and bar items don’t hurt, either.
Torico Ice Cream 20 Erie St, Jersey City, NJ 07302 Another budding local business that’s been open since the ‘60s, Torico has been serving ice cream to families for decades. While the interior may not be spacious and a visit is only meant for a sort of sweet retreat, it’s hard to leave Torico off this list. In fact, Downtown summer walks with the fam just aren’t the same without a pit stop for Torico’s homemade ice cream and gelato. A waffle bowl (or two) filled with a custom flavor is the perfect way for you and the kids to cool off.
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GOLD COAST
Brownstone Pancake Factory 860 River Rd, Edgewater, NJ 07020
House of Que 500 Ave at Port Imperial, Weehawken, NJ 07086
If you’re up north (or just need to get out of the city for a hot minute) Brownstone Pancake Factory is the Gold Coast’s breakfast and brunch king. Directly related to its sister property in Jersey City, the restaurant’s upside-down interior will capture your kids attention just as much as the outrageous milkshakes and seemingly mile-high stacks of pancakes. River Road isn’t always the most parking-friendly area, but Brownstone offers free valet parking. A true diner at heart, there’s just about nothing they don’t have on the menu.
Like its Hoboken counterpart, House of Que is very much a family-friendly venue. Bonuses for the Weehawken location, however, are more parking options and a massive indoor space to complement their delicious barbeque offerings (which also features a kid’s menu). Through the restaurant’s event staff you can even set up family gatherings or birthday parties. Often House of Que will host fun activities on weekend days such as balloon making and face painting— making those lunch trips extra fun for the kids.
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21st Century Classroom —A look at how modern times have impacted education. By Abby Montanez
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There’s a lot of talk about how kids today will never know what older generations had to go through. This got me thinking about school, specifically. I remember hearing adults tell stories about corporal punishment or how they had to walk five miles everyday to get to class—books in-hand, because backpacks didn’t exist. My elementary school days don’t date back quite as far, think early 2000s, but I bet if I walked into a classroom now there would be a thing (or 10) that they’re doing differently. My mom has been an educator in New Jersey for over 25 years, so naturally I wanted to pick her brain before writing this article. No more workbooks? Optional homework? No dress code? She always talks about how much school has changed since me or any of my siblings attended, but I had no idea just how much. Most obviously, elementary schools have seen the biggest change in terms of technological advancements. I was of the time when MacBooks and SMART boards were first being introduced. That being said, many public schools have declared technology an integral part of their curriculum. But it’s not just about having digital devices in the classroom for the sake of modernization. How we consume information, the way in which we’re taught and what’s actually being learned is different than it was 50 or even 15 years ago.
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hen I was in school, there was no such thing as STEM (the acronym for science, technology, engineering and math). These four disciplines are supposed to teach problem-solving, creative thinking and collaboration—all assets that are believed to be necessary going forward in the workplace. Since this category has been picked up by curriculums across the country, it’s seen its own pushback and growth, and the program now identifies as “STEAM” to include the arts. No matter your stance on whether or not technology belongs in the classroom, it’s important to remember that technology itself is merely a tool and its effectiveness is up to teachers and administrators. Through actively engaging with the learning material or using simulations and models, today’s schools foster the idea that knowledge is created in the classroom versus just consumed by students—part of that being because the “education of the future” doesn’t actually exist yet. How students and teachers communicate with one another has evolved as well, with many schools using their own version of a 40
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learning management system (LMS). Some of you might remember Blackboard or Canvas from college, but Google Classroom, for example, allows each student to have their own account and teachers can then create and collect assignments digitally, give real-time feedback and parents can track their child’s progress or engage with the teacher online. Using an LMS in the classroom doesn’t replace face-to-face learning, but it enhances the learning environment by balancing traditional and digital methods of education both within and outside of the classroom. Aside from the addition of SMART tables, Chromebooks and TVs that you don’t have to roll in from the supply closet, the classroom itself has had a major facelift. There is “flexible seating” now so children aren’t forced to sit at their desks all in a perfect row facing forward. Flexible seating refers to actual chair alternatives such as wobble stools, stability balls and bean bag chairs. There are even standing desk options, proven to be effective even in the workplace. Aside from comfort, flexible seating has been linked to benefits such as increased academic performance, better health and improved behavior.
Schools have also come a long way when it comes to safety, unfortunately out of necessity in the wake of many mass shootings over the years. Classrooms are being outfitted with bulletproof doors, and there are apps out there now that educators must download in the event of a lockdown, emergency evacuation or fire drill. Via a smart device, teachers can log into the Ruvna app and use a digital roster to check off every student that has been accounted for and administrators can then see who has not been confirmed as “evacuated.” There’s also been recent controversy over field trips and whether or not they’ve become too risky due to the fact that school buses, as you might recall, do not have seat belts. The biggest change to school systems, however, might not be able to be seen but instead, felt. Character education, in my opinion, is just as important (if not more) than academics. It’s a class that students must attend once a month that teaches the “pillars of character”— trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship. It helps build and foster peer relationships, enforces what it means to be
kind and supports the Zero Tolerance policy in relation to bullying. “Buddy Benches” are also being installed in playgrounds to combat social isolation. If a child feels lonely or sad, they can sit on the bench and that signals to the other kids that they need a friend or someone to play with.
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B
ut let’s go back to the idea that homework is optional. My first reaction upon hearing this was anger, which in all honesty was probably just jealousy. I was brought up to believe that homework was and still is an essential part of our education system. Today, homework hasn’t been completely eradicated but rather the reins have been loosened. Sometimes, my mom told me, it can be as simple as completing 20 minutes of reading on your own. When my cousins visited from California, their nine-year-old was allowed treat their trip to New Jersey as a “work-study.” They signed a contract with the school that he would complete assignments while he was away in order to make up for his absence. Taking time off to travel during the school year was considered a valuable learning experience, just like if you were to study abroad for credits. In a way, you could say that many of the changes we’re seeing in the classroom are a direct reflection of what’s happening in the forward-thinking world of today. Technology is taking over, professional spaces are becoming less rigid and concepts like creativity and collaboration are at the forefront of success. Collectively, these changes point toward a new model of schooling that’s more conducive to learning—setting the standard for what we can expect in the years to come.
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Summer Fun at the
Hoboken Library By Kiera Mitru
S
chool has let out, the sun shines a little brighter, and every day feels like it should be a beach day. These are all sure signs of summer, and with the changing of the seasons comes a variety of activities to enjoy both with the family and by yourself.
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While time away from school seems like it’s all fun and games, there are certain academic challenges that can develop in children over the course of the summer. A term that many parents have become aware of is the “summer slide,� which accounts for the loss of academic skills and knowledge in students over the course of summer vacation. One way you can help your little ones avoid the summer slide is to encourage literary exploration. We all know reading is important, but more than this, reading is fun. Reading gives us the opportunity to temporarily place ourselves in a different world, and meet new characters with every turn of the page.
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his summer, you and your children can enjoy the thrill of a good book at the Hoboken Library. Every summer, people of all ages are welcomed to participate in a number of book clubs, volunteer programs, book fairs, reading competitions, homework help, and so much more. The library’s historic façade continues to act as a beacon of knowledge to thousands of people as it has throughout Hoboken history. The Hoboken Library is less than half the size it should be for the size of the population it interacts with. Due to this, the Library has experienced several new upgrades to their 122-year-old building including modern touches to the classic interior design, the addition of a Learning Center at the Hoboken Housing Authority, and the use of outdoor spaces for larger events. Despite having a physically small
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property, the Library staff is always looking for new ways to create a lasting and positive impact on their community in the city of Hoboken. Every summer, the Hoboken Library hosts summer reading programs for varying age groups with different themes. This year’s theme is “A Universe of Stories” — which is based on space discovery and planetary exploration. These summer reading activities are offered for children, teens, and adults alike and all begin on the day of the summer Library Festival. At the festival, guests are invited to enjoy reading-related activities, check out books, participate in literary discussions, and tour the Hoboken Library’s facilities. One special activity the library held during a recent festival was the unveiling of its new BookBike, envisioned as a way for the library staff to bring the library to the community. Over the summer and fall, the bike will offer people to borrow books, sign up for library cards, and get information on library services. Teens and older students can engage with the Library and their community through volunteer hours. The Library holds open sessions for those looking to get involved in the facilitation of children’s programs, the opportunity to organize their own programs, and helping the Library staff organize shelves and maintain the wellbeing of their materials. This summer, the Hoboken Library invites you and your family to join them as they work to keep students engaged with the reading and learning material they encounter during the school year. Literacy is an exercise that strengthens the mind, so, this summer, grab a book that strikes your fancy and discover a world of characters and narratives that are waiting to be uncovered.
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Stowaway Collection: Style for Expecting Moms By Abby Montanez
When a woman finds out she’s pregnant, there are about a dozen things that immediately start racing through her mind. One of them being what she’s going to wear for the next nine months. Before the maternity market existed, women would alter clothes they already owned by letting out the seams of a dress or by adding an elastic waistband to their pants. Today, moms-to-be are still guilty of buying bigger and baggier sizes from their favorite brands and calling it maternity wear. To be clear, this isn’t because there aren’t options out there for expecting moms. It just so happens that many of those options aren’t very stylish.
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Finding an outfit that connects a woman’s life before, during and after baby sounds like a balancing act no one should ever attempt. But designing clothing for a body that’s changing by the week is no easy feat either, especially when trying to retain an identity that existed pre-pregnancy. When Hoboken mom Stephanie Manganelli was pregnant with her first son, she was underwhelmed by the amount of flattering and fashion-forward garments available in stores. So she and her mom, Debbie Grill-McInerney, decided to do something about it by starting Stowaway Collection in 2016. During Manganelli’s career beginnings in fashion marketing, she spent time assisting on photoshoots, runway shows and styling “real women with real bodies”— a tool she would find useful later on when designing her maternity line. However, it wasn’t until Manganelli’s own pregnancy journey that she was able to understand the complex changes a woman’s body goes
through, and even better, how to create pieces that complemented and celebrated such an important time. Stowaway Collection recognizes pregnancy as something more than temporary. The brand aims to bring the same trends and sensibility from the fashion industry and transition them to fit the maternity field. Despite the misconception, women are looking for maternity clothes that are as close to their normal, everyday style as possible. Stowaway Collection’s offerings range from color-blocking dresses to pencil skirts, drawstring pants and off-the-shoulder shirts—all crafted to show off the baby bump other brands try so hard to hide. Each item of clothing is made from stretchable and luxurious fabrics to accommodate women through all stages of motherhood, from 40 weeks and beyond. They’re meant not only to be versatile, but to provide a sense of comfort and confidence at a time when women might feel that they have less control over their own bodies. Most importantly, Stowaway Collection doesn’t overlook the working mom by offering easy online accessibility with free shipping and returns. The designs are made to go from “desk to dinner” and can be dressed up for a night out or paired with your favorite sweats. I recently spoke with Manganelli, now a mother of two, who shared what it was like starting her own business, tips on dressing during pregnancy and how the Hoboken community served as her inspiration.
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You founded Stowaway Collection back in 2016 out of necessity. What does this brand bring to the maternity space that the market hasn’t seen before? When I was pregnant with my first son, my mom and I went shopping for maternity clothes and left feeling so disappointed. There were no options designed to flatter the pregnant body. Everything I found was made to just “accommodate” and hide the bump under tent-like silhouettes. Stowaway Collection is designed so that all pieces celebrate your growing bump and show it off. Everything we make can go from the desk to dinner and is made in the USA with luxe fabrics. When you’re wearing something that’s chic, flattering and body conscious you’ll look better, you’ll feel better and it’ll photograph better for all those #bumppics. How did being pregnant with your first son play into your understanding of what pregnant women wanted? It’s the whole reason the brand was born! I was our first fit model and our designer. I tested every silhouette imaginable to see what was most flattering. Living through it helps you realize what’s needed at each point in the pregnancy. At the beginning I wanted to show off that I had a bump, albeit a small one. Then as I neared the end of the pregnancy all I wanted to wear were comfy, stretchy pieces that still looked flattering. Knowing I didn’t want to buy a new wardrobe, I made sure what we offered in our collection met both standards to last all trimesters. What is something you think most women get wrong when dressing during pregnancy? Some women don’t prioritize their maternity wardrobe and just buy their normal brands a size or two larger. As these pieces are not designed for a pregnant woman, you end up not feeling and looking your very best. Maternity clothes exist for a reason, they’re made for this beautiful time in a woman’s life and are designed to fit your growing bump. Utilize them and show off that bump! As a Hoboken resident, did the fellow “mommy community” have an impact on your designs? Immensely! I had an entire community to test the pieces! Hoboken is the perfect blend of a cosmopolitan, metropolitan and family-oriented city. The moms here need to be dressed and ready to go for the entire day for many different roles. From school drop-off to the corner office to soccer games to a date night. That’s what inspired the desk to dinner designs.
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Stowaway Collection Twist Maternity and Nursing Dress | $92 Perfect for now and later. The Twist Maternity & Nursing Dress helps to show off a bump as it grows then offers discreet breastfeeding options for the postpartum phase. Dress up for work with a blazer or wear around town, it’s as versatile as you are.
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Stowaway Collection Ballet Maternity Tunic | $60 For the days you need to be polished but just feel like wearing a maternity t-shirt, here’s the top for you. A wide, ballet neckline shows off your collarbone and pleats at the sides expand making the top the perfect piece for any trimester.
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Do you have any tips on how to transition one’s maternity wardrobe after the baby comes? Buy pieces that don’t need to be transitioned. If you invest smartly in your maternity wardrobe it’s everything you need for bump, nursing or pumping and as your bump slowly (very slowly!) goes away. Our pieces are designed to take you through pregnancy and beyond, so you can really get longevity out of your purchase. What advice would you give other women who hope to start their own business? After you’ve done your due diligence and tested the market, just close your eyes and jump! That’s my life motto and especially applies to entrepreneurship. The self-doubt can creep in when something doesn’t go your way and you have to remember to just jump (over and over again).
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Kid-Approved
Superfoods By Rosy Alvarez
Ensuring that your child is receiving the suggested daily intake of nutrients is vital to their development. The best way to guarantee your kids get all their vitamins and minerals is to introduce them to superfoods. These options are whole foods, meaning they are refined and processed as little as possible and otherwise free from harmful additives and artificial flavoring. Many superfoods—like turmeric—can prove impossible when you consider how challenging it is for any parent to get their kids to eat healthy snacks. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Here are seven superfoods that are not only nutritious, but super kid-friendly.
Berries A variety of berries contain an abundance of vitamin C that is vital for building a healthy immune system and wound healing. Fruits are easier to give to kids than veggies because they’re sweeter (we don’t call them “nature’s candy” for nothing). Berries can be easily made into smoothies as a cool, filling drink during the summer, added to yogurt as a topping, made into popsicles or eaten raw and added to school lunches.
Nuts It’s no secret that nuts are full of healthy oils that will contribute to the health of any growing child. They’re a great portable snack to pack for school, trips and play dates. The best items to buy are bags of trail mix in bulk. They’re great for kids and adults to eat! There is also no need to disguise trail mix because they have bits of chocolate in them for kids to look forward to. For kids with peanut allergies, stick to almonds and cashews. 56
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Fish The healthiest and easiest fish to give your kids is salmon. It’s full of omega-3 fatty acids that will help them maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Kids love pizza, mac-n-cheese and burgers, but salmon will help level out those bad fats with good fats. Although fish is a little harder to disguise for kids who are picky eaters, try making yourself a salmon salad or a homemade variation of fish tacos. Fun-looking meals will entice them to try it. If they still don’t enjoy the salmon, try tuna fish sandwiches.
Kale Although this is not the best-tasting plant, kale is jam-packed with vitamin A, vitamin K and 15 percent of the suggested daily intake of calcium. Even though it’s one of the best leaves to feed your kids, it is not recommended to serve it to them raw. The best way to ensure your kids fully consume this superfood is by adding it into a smoothie. The sweetness of vanilla extract and delicious fruit will make kale’s strong taste non-existent.
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Chia Seeds These seeds contain omega-3 fatty acids, iron and calcium which contribute to healthy oxygen transport in the body. In addition, almost all the carbs in chia seeds are fiber, and they are loaded with antioxidants used to fight the production of free radicals. Turn them into a delicious treat by using them to make a chia seed pudding—topped with banana slices and sweetened with honey means your child won’t be able to resist!
Eggs This humble food has kept humanity fed and healthy for a millennia. Full of healthy fats and protein, eggs will give your child the energy and alertness they always need. Serve them scrambled, boiled or with vegetables or meats as an omelette. One or two eggs for breakfast will energize your child until lunchtime and keep them strong in the long run.
Oatmeal Steel-cut oats are the most natural and healthy of all the oatmeals. It contains the least amount, if any, of processed sugars. Oatmeal is packed with vitamin B and has been proven to reduce blood glucose levels, prevent heart disease and improve your mood. Replace cereal with oatmeal to cut out tons of carbs and sugars. Serve hot with honey and topped with fruit to elevate its health benefits. When in a time crunch, a jar of overnight oats is your friend.
With Super Buy-Rite Jersey City | By Neil Shrodo When we are young, family gatherings are defined by memories of the food we eat—be it hotdogs and hamburgers or ribs and fried chicken with greens and mac and cheese. But once we come of age, family picnics often need a little “enhancement,” and many families develop traditions around adult drinks everyone can enjoy. They ease tensions of the work week, and often become a great new way for parents and their children to celebrate being a family. So here are three ideas, one for morning, afternoon and night!
Drinking your Heritage
A fun surprise for family events is to bring a liqueur from the land of your ancestors. Here are a few ideas to get started: • Africa – AMARULA CREAM 750ML ($21.99 ON SALE) – made from the Marula fruit, this cream liquor has a fruity flavor with hints of wild honey, toasted nuts and caramel. • Caribbean – RUMCHATA 750ML ($21.99 ON SALE) – this blend of rum and horchata has flavors of vanilla, cinnamon, and other spices and a delightful sweet finish. • France – ST. GERMAIN ELDERFLOWER 750ML ($33.99 ON SALE) – gently floral and slightly herbal, this liqueur is sweet but not sticky. • Italy – Limoncello – our favorites are LAZZARONI ($19.99); PALLINI ($21.99 ON SALE), and LiDestri’s Pink Limoncello. All are bright, fresh and fun! • Scandinavia – BRENNIVIN AQUAVIT 1L ($39.99) – Brennivin is from Iceland and is made from a potato mash base. Similar to vodka, it is flavored with caraway seeds. • Korea – CHUM CHURUM SOJU 750ML ($10.99) – a rice based brandy from Korea, serve ice cold and in shot glasses. Brisk! 60
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Morning: Mimosa It’s no secret that the mimosa is a great way to start early-day festivities. It mixes a dry, sparkling white wine with the sweet freshness of orange juice and is served chilled in champagne flutes. They are fresh, flavorful and both easy to make and easy to serve. Champagne is generally too expensive to use, and its subtle flavor gets lost in the OJ, but dry sparkling wines from Spain or Italy are wellpriced and perfectly suited for this recipe. Try the DIBON BRUT CAVA RESERVA from Spain or the CA’ FURLAN PROSECCO CUVEE BEATRICE EXTRA DRY, both on sale locally at $9.99.
Classic Mimosa • 1 bottle 750ml of Dibon Brut Cava Reserva or Ca’ Furlan Prosecco Cuvee Beatrice Extra Dry • 1 bottle of orange juice • Champagne flutes Start with a 50/50 ratio of sparkling wine to OJ. Be sure to add the sparkling wine first. Avoid stirring so the drink keeps its sparkle. Variants: Increase the wine to fill two-thirds of the flute to make a drier mimosa; blend other juices like grapefruit, pineapple, or even peach nectar to give it a Bellini spin! You can even add a splash of Cointreau (750ml/$27.99 on sale) or St Germain Elderflower (750ml/$33.99 on sale) to enhance the flavor! July | August 2019
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Afternoon: Sangria Sangria is traditionally a punch made of red wine, fresh fruit and brandy, though some prefer rum. One of the most popular drinks in Spain, regional variations abound and local recipes are guarded fiercely! White and rosé sangria’s have come to prominence in the past decade, and are perfect for those wanting something more delicate. For the red wine, you need something dry but with a lot of flavor. I would use the CR GOLD JUMILLA, a blend of Monastrell and Syrah that will cost about $11.99 per bottle. If you want something more refined and traditional, use a Rioja like LA CUNA POESÍA RIOJA RESERVA ($19.99). For the brandy you could use something like RAYNAL’S VSOP, $15.99 for a 750ml, or a domestic brandy like E&J BRANDY, which runs $9.99 for a 750ml bottle.
Traditional Sangria • Chopped Fruit: ½ apple, cored and peeled; ½ orange, peel-on and seeded • 3-4 tablespoons brown sugar • ¾ cup orange juice • ½ cup brandy or dark rum • 750ml dry Spanish red wine • Ice, 1 cup Add fruit and sugar to the pitcher, muddle (roughly crush) with a wooden spoon for 30 seconds. Add OJ and brandy. Muddle for 30 more seconds. Add wine and stir. Taste and adjust by adding more OJ, brandy or wine. Add ice, stir and serve when chilled. 62
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Night: Crystal Margarita Everyone can make frozen margaritas and they are a summer staple for a reason— being fun, flavorful and most notably cold! But a great way to impress your parents, or your kids, is to make an evening drink with some class. For this cocktail, you want a crystal tequila which brings notes of citrus to the classic agave flavors. I would use something like CASA NOBLE’S CRYSTAL ($36.99 on sale), which has a vibrant flavor and will bring a marvelous intensity to your drink. Pair this with the classic COINTREAU ($27.99 on sale for a 750ml) and lime juice. Just pour it over cubed ice, salt the rim and you are good to go!
Crystal Margarita On the Rocks • 1.5oz Casa Noble Crystal Tequila • 1.5oz Cointreau • 1 oz lime juice • Large ice cubes • Salt for the rim Mix tequila, Cointreau and lime in a shaker with ice. Shake until the exterior frosts over. Salt the rim of the glass. Pour and serve.
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Events JULY/AUGUST 2019
July 13 Fashion on the Hudson Runway Show Riverbank State Park: 679 Riverside Dr, New York, NY 10031 11:00AM | Free
July 25 Guitar Bar World Record Attempt: Woodstock 50th Anniversary
August 10-11 Shawn Mendes: The Tour
Pier C Park: 340 Sinatra Dr, Hoboken, NJ 07030
7:30PM - 10:00PM | $97+
6:30PM | Free
July 13 & 14 Surf & Turf Seafood Fest Monmouth Park: 175 Oceanport Ave, Oceanport, NJ 07757 11:00AM | $5
Soldberg Airport: 39 Thor Solberg Rd, Readington, NJ 08889
July 14 Sublime with Rome
GA: $10-$24
Stone Pony Summer Stage: 909 Ocean Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712
August 1 & 5 The Rolling Stones
5:00PM | $60+
July 16 Hoboken Uptown Farmer’s Market Church Square Dog Park: 401-449 Willow Ave, Hoboken, NJ 07030 2:00PM | Free
August 17-18 59th Annual Jersey City Puerto Rican Heritage Festival James J. Ferris High School: 35 Colgate St, Jersey City, NJ 07302 12:00PM - 9:30PM | Free
August 21 Food Truck Frenzy Pier 13: 1301 Sinatra Dr N, Hoboken, NJ 07030
MetLife Stadium: 1 MetLife Stadium Dr, East Rutherford, NJ 07073
4:00PM - 10:00PM | Free
7:30PM | $224+
August 24 19th Annual Jersey City LGBT Pride Festival
August 3 Craft Beer and Crab Festival
Newark Avenue between Grove Street and Jersey Avenue, Jersey City NJ 07302
Emlen Physick Estate: 1048 Washington Street, Cape May, NJ 08260
1:00PM - 9:00PM | Free
Pier A Park: 100 Sinatra Dr, Hoboken, NJ 07030
11:00AM - 8:00PM | Free
7:00PM | 30+
August 4 A Modest Runway Fashion Exhibit
August 25 Hard Grove 5K: Run for Hunger
Party With Purpose 5K
July 17 Movies Under the Stars: A Star is Born
White Eagle Hall: 337 Newark Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07302
Liberty State Park: 1 Audrey Zapp Drive Jersey City, NJ 07305 10:00AM | $35
3:00PM | $25+
September 5-8 Hoboken Italian Festival
9:00PM | Free
August 10 Montclair Jazz Festival
Frank Sinatra Drive, Hoboken NJ 07030
July 24-28 Saint Ann’s Italian Festival
Nishuane Park: 274 Bellevue Avenue, Montclair, NJ 07042
Thurs & Fri 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM Sat & Sun 11:00 AM - 11:00PM
12:00PM - 9:00PM | Free
Free
Pier A Park: 100 Sinatra Dr, Hoboken, NJ 07030
Saint Ann’s Square: 704 Jefferson St, Hoboken, NJ 07030 Free 64
July 26-28 37th Annual New Jersey Festival of Ballooning
Prudential Center: 25 Lafayette St, Newark, NJ 07102
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