Eat at Food. When Searching for Homes in Summit NJ

January 26, 2013 by Leave a Comment

IMG 0424 2 Eat at Food. When Searching for Homes in Summit NJHave you eaten at “Food.” lately? The name says it all, right? This restaurant located at the corner of Summit and Springfield, is the perfect place to stop when you are hungry and searching for homes in Summit NJ!

All they serve is food, real food, using “green” practices. You can also get a pretty good feel for the community by sitting in their outside dining or at a table near the window where you can see passers-by. A walk into the restaurant will show you it’s retro style and popularity gained through consistent service and good food, and the location can’t be beat!

Only about a block from the train and with parking (did I mention it’s free) in the back lot, “Food.” is easy to work into your day, if your a resident living in Millburn-Short Hills or call another midtown direct town home!

Weekday hours are from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for lunch and dinner is served between 5 to 9 p.m. Friday nights the restaurant stays open until 10 p.m. and on Saturdays brunch begins at 9 a.m. through on Sunday extended hours allow dining between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Dinner on the weekends is offered from 5 to 10 p.m. on Saturday and 5 to 8 p.m. on Sunday. The friendly staff at food.com can be reached by phone at 908.277.6222 or you can take a look at their menu here. If you happen to stop in for lunch, the Cranapple Salad was pretty tasty!

Click here to see statistics on the Summit real estate market, too!

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New Normal for Millburn/Short Hills Homes

November 16, 2012 by Leave a Comment

New day in a Millburn Short Hills home New Normal for Millburn/Short Hills HomesRecovery.  Each day is yet another step to recovery for our towns.  As I enjoy the natural beauty that is so evident in my New Jersey towns, I see recovery and I recognize that each of us in our Summit, Chatham, or Millburn/Short Hills homes have had to declare a “new normal.”  This is the time where we need to recognize our hope and strength as a community, as families, and as individuals and move forward with gratitude at what we still have.

Because we still have a lot.

As I snuggled with my pup in my Chatham NJ home, I am grateful for electricity (it was finally turned back on over the weekend), fantastic friends (who took me in and warmed me up), the kindness of strangers (spotlighted in my storm posts), and the fact that my Chatham home is standing.  Driving through our boroughs I have seen devastation and community service at it’s side.  I’ve seen friends lifting one another in diners and city officials lending a hand to help someone in need as they try to uncover what is left of their Millburn/Short Hills homes.

However, those good deeds aren’t what I am referring to when I say the “new normal.”  Those acts of service have always been seen in our MIDtown Direct towns and will continue to be seen, no matter the hurricane, tropical storm, or flood.  Our New Jersey towns and the people who live in Millburn/Short Hills, Summit, and Chatham have always been willing to meet stormy weather with fortitude and grace.  We are strong and we love our MIDtown Direct towns.

Our “new normal” is more of an adjustment phase as we recognize the short-term changes and adjustments needed to succeed on a daily basis post-storm.  Adjustments like taking a different train into the city or finding a new route home. How about filling up your car with gas and owning a generator now seem to come with the territory. I, like you, am finding ways to accept to these changes and adapt to my “new normal.”  If you have any pointers on how to make it easier, please comment on this post.  Thank you!

 

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To Stay or To Go – Sandy’s Effect on New Jersey Homes, People and Pets

November 5, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Pets displaced from New Jersey homes too To Stay or To Go Sandys Effect on New Jersey Homes, People and PetsHurricane Sandy has left many of us who live in Midtown Direct towns in New Jersey in a difficult situation. With cold weather and another nor’easter on the way, the ability to stay warm in our New Jersey homes is a critical issue. Blankets and jackets can only do so much. And while some New Jersey homes have power, many do not. For those without power, like me in my Chatham NJ home, the options are limited. We can burn wood or fuel, but those items exhaust themselves quickly. Possibly restaurants and movie theaters have heat, but those cost money and have limited hours, so are not a complete solution, either.
After a little over a week of coping without electricity and other amenities, I’ve decided to take a friend’s offer and get out of town for a little while. Others are doing the same on a day-trip basis and three charter buses are transporting residents tomorrow, leaving the Madison Municipal Lot #3 at 7 a.m., for a trip into NYC for a round-trip charge of $20. Find out more at the Chatham website here.
Pets are not allowed on the bus for obvious reasons, which brings up another point. Now, I realize my next topic may not be the most important issue when it comes to priorities but for pet people who have been made homeless, our pets have become a big issue! We’re between a rock and a hard place. We board them if we’re lucky enough to be able to afford the incredible prices of boarding at $100 dollars a day or we stay in our freezing homes and pray for power! The truth is, none of our friends (as much as they love us) are going to take us in with our beloved pets.
When leaving,  I had to find lodging for Bailey so I could spend a few days away because quite honestly I just am not sure I’m up for another storm quite yet. Luckily Morristown Inn in Morristown NJ had space available.  We are expecting this next storm on Wednesday and with the ground as wet as it is and the trees being as precarious as they are, it could be more troublesome than a typical nor’easter. People need to be prepared once again, physically and emotionally. We’ll all be praying for each other. If you have online access, click here for important numbers and information on how to get help.

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Find Gas Near Your Millburn/Short Hills home

November 3, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Gas Near your Millburn Short Hills home Find Gas Near Your Millburn/Short Hills homeI’ve learned a lot in the last week since Hurricane Sandy barreled through our New Jersey towns.  It used to be that my day to day activities were focused on the search for a Millburn/Short Hills home listing or meeting with clients and friends.  Now, however, my search is limited to finding a full gas station or a working ATM, as is the case for many residents living in Millburn/Short Hills.

My search at least came to an end, thankfully this morning.  Gas rationing has begun and I found a gas station in Summit, located on River Road, by The Broadway Diner, that had working pumps!  Yesterday I waited in line at another station only to be turned away, but this morning I realized that I only had 80 miles of gas left and knew something needed to be done immediately.  I was very blessed to have been chosen in gas rations to be one of the first in the mile long line to purchase gas.

So… I went to wait in line and I thought about how lucky we are to have just lost power in our towns. Yes, it’s difficult, but it’s nothing compared to the devastation in some areas affected by Hurricane Sandy.  While waiting, some amazingly nice people from Congregation Beth Hatikvah (I believe) brought donuts and coffee to those of us in line.  It was a literal God-send!  This is the type of thing that you’ll find in our New Jersey communities and I’m glad I was there to witness it.

Lines near your Millburn Short Hills home Find Gas Near Your Millburn/Short Hills homeI only had to wait a little over two hours (not bad compared to some people) and when I finally got to the pump I discovered that they weren’t taking credit cards!  I suppose I should have anticipated this with no electricity throughout  our towns, but it was still a shock.  I had waited so long!

In Summit, New Jersey and all of our towns, however, people really care about each other.  The workers at the gas station were SO nice about it and in broken English we agreed that I would come back with the $50.  I couldn’t believe it – I was so grateful!  To my surprise, two seconds later a woman behind me in a car offered me $50 in cash so I could pay for the gas and I wrote her a check. Wow, these small random acts of kindness are what keep me going and are examples of why I live in Chatham NJ.  I love our community, and the fact that even in times of extreme crisis, we, as neighbors watch out for one another.  Thank you, New Jersey!

Glennwood Crosswalk near your Millburn Short Hills home Find Gas Near Your Millburn/Short Hills homeBy the way, I saw that the gas station on Morris turnpike, across from Benihana’s in Millburn, NJ was pumping this morning, too.  I’m trying to post and share more updates like these to Facebook as I get more news that you may need, so you can follow my Facebook page here.

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NJ Midtown Direct Rail Starting to Get Back on Track

November 2, 2012 by Leave a Comment

NJ Midtown Direct Rail info 300x271 NJ Midtown Direct Rail Starting to Get Back on TrackHurricane Sandy landed hard on our Midtown direct rail system and really all of the transportation lines on the eastern seaboard, but dedicated transit employees are hard at work to get things back on track. Announcements concerning our NJ Midtown direct towns and transit options appear to be in the works, allowing for some travel from your Summit NJ home or home in Millburn/Short Hills and surrounding areas.

Today NJ Transit resumed rail service between Trenton and New York Penn Station on the Northeast Corridor Line using this special schedule. Service for the other rail lines has not resumed because of damage from Hurricane Sandy and resulting outages in power. Most of the bus lines and the River Line light rail are providing transportation options too.

Summit, Chatham and Millburn/Shorthills home owners and residents should also be aware that rail passes will be cross honored on NJ Transit and buses and that passes expiring in October will be honored until November 7th to aid residents, according to the transit website. Please visit NJ Transit to get details and view actual schedules.

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A Hard Day and A Good Day at My Chatham NJ Home

October 30, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Today was a good day.

A day to witness miracles and a testament to the strength of our communities.

Leaving my Chatham NJ home to visit and see family and friends alive and well and standing next to their Millburn/Short Hills homes (many of which were still standing) was amazing. Visiting the Millburn Deli brought a tear to my eye as I watched them remove the boards from windows, a sign that things were going to be okay. Many of you can remember when that wasn’t the case.

Preparing for disaster in Millburn A Hard Day and A Good Day at My Chatham NJ Home

Yes, there was devastation in our community yesterday.

Yes, it will take time (many months, likely) to recover and rebuild.

Yes, it was a hard day.

But, it was still good.

And I will sleep well tonight knowing that my friends, family, pets and loved ones and their homes in Summit, Millburn/Short Hills, and Chatham are still here. We will continue to draw strength from one another and make each day good until one day everything will be great in our small communities again.

Tree falls on Chatham home copy A Hard Day and A Good Day at My Chatham NJ Home

You see, we as a community are resilient. Our towns have weathered major storms, like Hurricane Irene and last years ice storm on Halloween and now Hurricane Sandy, and have bounced back. In fact, we are already bouncing – Halloween has been re-scheduled to Monday in many of our towns so that we can embrace our neighborly spirit despite the tragedy that has occurred. I am excited to have a chance to have trick or treaters visit my Chatham NJ home this week and recount the blessings of having children who are able to dress up and walk through our community.

Please join me in embracing the challenges that lie ahead – the challenges that will try our patience and resolve and may at times seem insurmountable.

Tree crushes NJ home A Hard Day and A Good Day at My Chatham NJ Home
Together as a community, whether you live in Summit NJ or have a home in Millburn/Short Hills, Chatham, or another of the affected areas, we need be strong, patient and move forward.  We have no choice.

Millburn, Summit & Chatham NJ Home Resources & Emergency Numbers

Listed below are some emergency resources that may be of help as you seek to rebuild and repair whatever challenges you may face individually and as a family. If I can be of service to you, please give me a call.

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Fall Festival Finds Home in Summit

October 5, 2012 by 1 Comment

Fall Festival Finds Home in SummitFall has arrived and if you live in or have a home in Summit, NJ, you shouldn’t miss the annual Jefferson Elementary School Fall Festival on Saturday, October 13th. A favorite of residents, this festival brings together all that is good and festive in an effort to support local programs.  From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. you can enjoy a great time of community fun for the whole family. A petting zoo, pony rides, and games can all be had at the school, located at 110 Ashwood Avenue. An obstacle course, pumpkin decorating, a cake and moon walk will be held for even more excitement.

Celebrate the Season at Home in Summit

Plan on spending money at this event as a bake sale and basket silent auction will provide opportunities to raise funds for the Summit Primary Center at Jefferson Elementary School and you could even bring a special something to your home in Summit, NJ. Tickets will be sold for all the attractions at the event, but admission is free.  To find out more, ask a neighbor as this is an annual event or call me to get the scoop!  You’re going to love celebrating the season at the Fall Festival!

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Epicurean Festival LIVE in Summit NJ

September 19, 2012 by 1 Comment

Epicurean Festival LIVE in Summit NJThis weekend marks the 4th Annual Summit Wine and Food Festival on September 21st through 23rd at the Grand Summit Hotel, located at 570 Springfield Avenue in Summit NJ. A special event, well-loved by those who live in Summit NJ, this festival brings celebrity chefs, sommeliers, and top winemakers (and their wares) from network shows like Food Network and Bravo to our hometown!

This weekend of discovery includes chef demos, wine tastings and seminars, and all you could desire when combining the best in food and wine.  If you are looking for ways to increase your ability to entertain in your Summit home or would just like to enjoy an amazing day or weekend, this Summit Festival is hard to beat!

Tickets and more information and specifics are available at the Summit Wine and Food Festival website by clicking here.

Learn How To Best Entertain in Your Summit Home!

Here’s a sneak peek of the upcoming schedule:

  • Friday, September 21st - International Gala Tasting from 7 to 10 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom. Experience signature dishes and fantastic wines. Tickets will sell-out, so get yours now!
  • Saturday, September 22nd - 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.  Learn about “California’s Undiscovered Cult Wines” in the Atrium Room. Focus of this presentation will center on Robledo Family Vineyards and Alex Sotelo Cellars.  If you prefer Cognac, a presentation given by Hardy House will discuss the details of producing Cognac and the nuances gained from aging.  Another seminar on “Portugal: The Last Frontier of European Wines” will be provided in the Coach Room, as well, giving you plenty to discover!  Later, from 12:30-2:30 p.m. the “Sommelier Showdown” Luncheon will be in the Grand Ballroom and a discussion on “Hidden Treasures of The South: Latin America’s Greatest Wines” by Jorge Liloy in the Atrium Room, will follow from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. As an alternative, “Vodka and the Spirit of Mixology” will be offered in the Coach Room, and a Wine Seminar will be held in the Morris Room.  That evening, the Grand Ballroom will come alive from 7 to 10 p.m. with the “Latin Night Gala Wine and Food Tasting” and the V.I.P. Gala Dinner (a six-course meal featuring wine and dinner pairing) will begin at 7 p.m. in the Morris Room.
  • Sunday, September 23rd -  Cooking classes from “Dietitian in the Kitchen™” and Richard Sandoval from Pampano Restaurant will be offered Sunday morning and from 11 a.m. to noon, “Say ‘Cheese!” will expose you to the many delights cheese offers.  Later “Discover the Flavors of India” and “Alcohol Free Mixology” leading up to the final event, hosted by Daisy Martinez, “The Flavors of the Americas.”

 

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Home in Summit NJ? Expect Great Schools!

September 4, 2012 by 1 Comment

Home in Summit NJ? Expect Great Schools!If you are new to the Summit School community, having possibly just purchased a home in Summit NJ, you may not be aware of all the fantastic advantages you gain in a Summit school. First off, school starts on Thursday, September 6th. However, before starting the new school year, it’s exciting to note several achievements reached by students who live in Summit NJ that were announced over the summer.

For instance, did you know that:

  • 84% of Summit students scored 3 or higher on the AP exams?
  • Sixteen Summit sports teams won championships on county, regional or state levels?
  • Four of our Summit coaches won coaching honors in 2011-2012?
  • Students who live in Summit NJ earned regional, state and national awards in forensics?
  • Summit students displayed artwork at statewide conferences?
  • Summit students earned recognition in regional and statewide bands, orchestras and choruses?
  • Summit middle and high school theatre programs were awarded multiple nominations and awards?

Wow! Summit is an excellent place to live if you want your child to learn, grow and succeed, as are many of our New Jersey towns. I’d love to share with you my personal experience that comes from having a home in Summit NJ and it’s surrounding towns. I know the local New Jersey schools and will help you and your family find the perfect fit! Give me a call at 973-202-7270 or visit the Summit School District online to find out more.

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Top 100 New Jersey High Schools: 2012

August 22, 2012 by 1 Comment

DSC 0081 300x198 Top 100 New Jersey High Schools: 2012For the first time since 2008 New Providence HS has taken over the number 1 position in the New Jersey Monthly list of the state’s Top 100 Public High Schools. Take a look at how Millburn, Summit, Chatham, Madison, Livingston and all the local communities ranked.

View homes on the MLS

Filed Under: Blog, Chatham NJ, Featured Blog Posts, Livingston, Millburn/Short Hills, Schools, Summit
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