It can be hard to hear for some, but getting older is just part of life. For many men, hitting a certain age signifies the beginning of a new chapter - where bucket list items are crossed off, and goals are accomplished. For others, however, aging is a scary prospect, filled with nagging injuries, embarrassing weight gain, and inability to perform intimately. Few things feel worse than realizing that you simply can't perform as you used to, whether on the basketball court or in the bedroom.
The reality is, as men get older and approach middle age, their testosterone levels drop. When a male's testosterone levels get lower, it can cause a slew of unwanted symptoms like:
If you have noticed any of the above symptoms and feel like you're just dragging yourself through life, don't lose hope. Many men around the country are experiencing the same feelings as you. Thankfully, you don't have to settle for the side effects of low testosterone. There are proven, easy steps that you can take to reverse the negative signs of aging. If you're ready to reclaim your youth and feel like you did in your 20s and 30s, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may be the perfect solution.
TRT bridges the gap between your old life and the happier, more vibrant version of you. That's where Juventee comes in - to facilitate your transition to a more youthful, fulfilling life and a brighter future. After all, aren't YOU supposed to be in charge of your wellness and health? With the Juventee team by your side, you'll have the tools to do so - backed by a personalized plan crafted by experts with more than 20 years of experience.
At Juventee, we propose a preventive and proactive medical approach to preserve optimal body function, with the best hormonal functioning to prolong vitality and youthfulness. Our specialty is Age Management, which is based on the belief that balance is the key to wellness. We employ the most innovative science, offering treatments like TRT in West Orange, NJ, and other clinical products with proven efficacy.
Living a younger, healthier, and longer life is a frequent commitment for Juventee's team of specialists. We are experts at designing customized programs that work synergistically with your body and brain. We love incorporating smart nutrition, hormonal balance, exercise, stress management, cognitive health, and lifestyle changes into our treatment programs. We also implement sciences such as testosterone replacement therapy to achieve verifiable, legitimate results.
Our doctors take differing approaches to care but share the single goal of prolonging your youth and vitality. With that goal in mind, Juventee was born from the hands of its partners, who want you to feel full strength, energy, joy, confidence, and wellbeing.
testosterone levels. Unfortunately, when a man loses too much testosterone, it results in a condition called hypogonadism. Also called "Low T," testosterone loss due to hypogonadism must be replenished, or the male suffers from difficult, even debilitating symptoms.
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What pops up in your head when you think about testosterone? Many people associate testosterone with being overly aggressive, macho, and violent. However, the truth is that testosterone is a critical hormone for men and affects the male lifespan from puberty through old age. As a sex hormone, male testosterone is produced through the testicles. It becomes most prevalent during puberty.
Testosterone production is controlled by the pituitary gland at the base of a man's brain. This gland sends signals to the testes, which in turn produce testosterone. A feedback loop helps regulate the amount of testosterone in the blood. When levels are too high, the brain orders the pituitary gland to restrict production.
Cholesterol synthesizes the testosterone in your body. However, having high cholesterol doesn't mean you have high testosterone levels, too. T levels are too carefully controlled by your pituitary gland for cholesterol to raise testosterone levels.
During puberty, testosterone helps males develop:
Testosterone replacement is exactly what its name implies. It's a therapy for men that replaces diminished testosterone levels, which helps balance your hormones and ultimately improves your life. Also called androgen replacement therapy, TRT alleviates many of the side effects that men suffer from as a result of low testosterone.
Testosterone was originally synthesized in a lab in 1935. Its popularity has grown since, and today, it is among the most promising doctor-prescribed treatments for men in the United States.
So, how does testosterone replacement therapy work? TRT essentially gives you the testosterone needed to be healthy and have a properly functioning body. As the primary androgen for males, testosterone has a role in the natural processes your body needs for overall health. This extra hormonal intake positively affects patients and their general health, preventing diseases such as osteoporosis, cardiac diseases, and more.
Though there is an abundance of testosterone in your system throughout puberty and into your 20s, it gradually depletes with age. Sometimes, serious injuries and long-term conditions like diabetes affect testosterone levels. Unfortunately, when a man loses too much testosterone, it results in a condition called hypogonadism. Also called "Low T," testosterone loss due to hypogonadism must be replenished, or the male suffers from difficult, even debilitating symptoms.
Though some symptoms of low T are abundantly evident, not all men can immediately tell they may need TRT. If you're unsure, ask yourself these questions:
If you answered yes to any of those questions, it could be time to contact Juventee about a personalized TRT plan. Still unsure if you're experiencing symptoms of low T? We have compiled a more extensive list of signs below:
Low energy used to be considered a normal part of aging. Today, most doctors know better. Modern advances in medicine show that lack of energy and low T often go hand-in-hand.
If it's a huge struggle to keep up with your kids on the soccer field, or you just don't have the energy to be active, you may have low testosterone. Getting tired is normal, but if it's an ongoing problem affecting you and your family, it's time to consult a doctor.
Whether you're having a tough time getting through your day or can't finish normal activities, TRT in West Orange, NJ could be the solution.
You would think that lowered libido would be easy to pick up on, but when it happens gradually, it can be more difficult to diagnose. With that said, many men use TRT because they've lost that "spark" in the bedroom. It's not easy for a man to hear that they're not pleasing their partner because intimacy is an important part of a relationship.
The good news? Having a low libido doesn't have to be permanent. TRT treatments can help revert hormone levels to their normal range, making for a more enjoyable sex life.
If you're like millions of other men, hair loss is an unfortunate reality you don't want to think about. Closely related to hormone imbalances and testosterone decline, hair loss is about as distressing as it gets. This common symptom is often related to DHT - a derivative of testosterone that can cause hair follicles to die.
Thankfully, a carefully monitored TRT regimen can help restore hair, especially when combined with methods like plasma-rich therapy. While it's true that you can't change your genes, you can change the effects of low testosterone in your body, so hair loss isn't your only reality.
Weak erections - it's an uncomfortable subject for men to talk about. It's even worse to experience the symptom in the heat of the moment. Despite being very common, men shame themselves when they can't achieve an erection. And while there are many reasons for this malady, low testosterone is often a contributing factor.
Fortunately, you don't have to live with weak erections forever when you balance your hormones with a personalized TRT treatment plan from Juventee.
You're feeling down about everything and can't figure out why you feel crummy about life. You're successful at work but feel unaccomplished. If you're experiencing symptoms like these, you may be depressed - and it could be stemming from low testosterone.
Studies show that men with depression and high cortisol levels also commonly have low testosterone. Because higher cortisol levels can lead to low T, the chances of severe depression increase.
Depression is a very real disorder and should always be diagnosed and treated by your doctor. One treatment option, when used in conjunction with therapy, is TRT. When TRT is used to replenish hormone levels, men enjoy a lighter, more optimistic mood. That's great news for depressed men who have had little-to-no success with powerful anti-depression meds.
Experts have found that men who lose a week's worth of sleep may experience a drop in testosterone by as much as 15%. These findings are alarming and may suggest that sleep loss lowers T levels and affects wellbeing.
If you find yourself exhausted at the end of the day but toss and turn all night long, it could be time to have your testosterone levels checked. TRT may restore your testosterone levels which can help you sleep better with proper exercise and diet.
Are you struggling to lift weights in the gym or find that you can't pick up items that used to be easy to lift? Studies show that inactive men can lose .5% of muscle strength each year after the age of 25. When you hit 60, muscle loss doubles every ten years. While muscle loss is common with age, it can also be linked to low T.
Testosterone is a crucial piece needed for building and retaining muscle mass. That's why many doctors are prescribing TRT for males experiencing sharp declines in strength and muscle mass. Whether your workouts are losing steam or you're having problems lifting items that aren't very heavy, don't blame it all on age. You could be suffering from hypogonadism.
Nobody likes to gain weight, even though our society is more accepting of overweight people than ever before. Despite diets and carb cutting, many men aren't able to get rid of excess belly and body fat, increasing the chances of heart disease and cancer.
Sometimes, male weight gain isn't caused by sweets and carbs but by hormone imbalances that slow the metabolism. This phase of life is called andropause and occurs when testosterone levels are low. Combining a low metabolism with other symptoms like high cortisol levels can be a recipe for a double-chinned disaster. Fortunately, TRT treatments and physician-led weight loss programs can correct hormone imbalances and lead to healthy weight loss for men.
The enlargement of male breast tissue, also called "man boobs," is a fairly common condition that many men have. Though it is closely associated with diet and other life choices, increased fatty tissue is often caused by hormonal imbalances.
If you're approaching middle age and you're embarrassed by having large breasts, don't lose hope. TRT is a safe, effective way to eliminate the underlying cause of gynecomastia without invasive surgery. With a custom HRT and fitness program, you can bring your testosterone and estrogen levels back to normal before you know it.
The human body is amazing in so many ways. Still, we have to optimize it every now and then using science, medicine, and hard work. After 40, you may notice that your body is changing, but symptoms like low libido and lack of motivation don't have to be permanent. Juventee has the team, tools, and experience to help recapture your youth and feel better than ever before.
If you're getting older and you're worried about low testosterone, give our office a call today. It would be our pleasure to care for you using the highest quality products, backed by research and applied by professionals with your best interests in mind.
Whether you need a boost to help you get through your busy work week or a natural solution to an embarrassing problem like ED, we're here for you. Our doctors will explain your treatment options in-depth and take as much time as you need to feel comfortable and confident about TRT. Remember, when you treat your body with love and care, it will reciprocate generously. Let our team teach you the techniques to prolong your sense of youth and provide you with the treatment to solidify your wellbeing as you age with grace. Contact Juventee today. By tomorrow, you'll be one step closer to meeting the best version of yourself.
"There have been major changes and cost increases, in addition to material and service delays, that are out of anyone's control."WEST ORANGE, NJ — Are you one of the West Orange residents who has been eagerly (or anxiously) waiting for the opening of the new public library? There’s a “light at the end of the tunnel,” according to the Friends of the West Orange Public Library.Originally slated to open last spring, the library’s new location at 10 Rooney Circle is now expected to take pla...
WEST ORANGE, NJ — Are you one of the West Orange residents who has been eagerly (or anxiously) waiting for the opening of the new public library? There’s a “light at the end of the tunnel,” according to the Friends of the West Orange Public Library.
Originally slated to open last spring, the library’s new location at 10 Rooney Circle is now expected to take place this autumn, officials previously said.
The reopening date was previously cited as “mid-October.” However – with more than 122,000 books left to sort through, in addition to other tasks – the new target for an opening date has been pushed back to Nov. 1, as reported during Tuesday’s town council meeting (watch the video below, cued to the discussion about the library).
Local officials, including Mayor Susan McCartney, have blamed several factors for the delays, including supply chain issues that have “created a domino effect.”
The new library was a key bargaining chip in a major redevelopment project at 100 and 200 Executive Drive and 10 Rooney Circle that took shape during the pandemic. See Related: Trustees Share Plans For New Library In West Orange
It was also a focal point of a recent case decided in New Jersey Supreme Court, which ruled that the previous designation of the library as an “area in need of redevelopment” was invalid. See Related: NJ Supreme Court Rules On West Orange Library Dispute
McCartney later said the Supreme Court’s decision wouldn’t impact plans to break ground on the new library. Read More: NJ Court Ruling Won't Deter West Orange's Plans, Mayor Says
After the library closed its old location at 46 Mount Pleasant Avenue in February, a temporary location was set up at 80 Main Street for a continuation of some key library services.
When it’s complete, the new library will have several public meeting rooms, state-of-the-art computer labs, eco-friendly initiatives, technological upgrades, increased storage capacities, more restroom facilities, a larger floor area, a public elevator and more opportunities for community engagement, officials said.
The library annex at 80 Main Street, suite 230, will remain open through the month of October.
LIBRARY UPDATE: OCT. 11
The Friends of the West Orange Public Library released an update about the reopening on Wednesday. It reads:
“The Friends Board of Trustees recently met with the West Orange Public Library director, Dave Cubie, and its board president, Marge Mingin, for an update on the new library. There is a light at the end of this renovation tunnel and we are excited!
“The library is planning to reopen this fall and the new building is fantastic, with lots of amenities and improvements that the community has been asking for through the years. The library fulfills the expansive vision of what a modern, technologically up-to-date public library should be with all the equipment and space needed for public use. It will have updated library technology and equipment, a more efficient and effective library layout, more conference and meeting space, and substantially more parking space with a wonderful outdoor patio area. This significantly enhanced library will provide the resources our residents and businesses will need now and in the future, and will make us proud to be a part of West Orange.
“What the library planned for regarding costs when starting this project and applying for the New Jersey Construction Bond Act Grant was based on realistic estimates from 2019. Four years later, there have been major changes and cost increases, in addition to material and service delays that are out of anyone’s control. This is a reality that happens with most construction projects in the public sector.
“The library will need your financial support. You can provide that by donating directly to the library. You can also achieve that by renewing or becoming a Friends member and participating in our activities when the new library opens. By investing in a Friends membership, you will be investing in the library as the Friends will principally devote its membership fees and receipts to direct funding of library equipment, events, materials, and services needed for the new Library. The Friends is a tax-exempt organization; therefore, your membership fees and contributions are tax deductible.
“As a Friend of the West Orange Public Library, you are part of a dedicated group that supports our library. Libraries thrive when they have active and engaged community members who not just use the library and take advantage of library activities and events but also advocate for the library and help with fundraising. Fundraising is a crucial part of ensuring that the West Orange Public Library has all the resources, books, and equipment it needs to properly serve our community now and in years to come.
“Over the past few years, we have sponsored programs and purchased equipment and essential supplies. We will continue to do that. The public library is a welcoming space for all to learn, play, relax, work, connect, and thrive. In West Orange, our public library is where bright ideas begin and continuing education and enrichment occurs; and we look forward to this new chapter with your continuing or new support and membership. Thank you.”
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Listen to this articleTarget is adding a second location in Essex County.As part of an upgrade of West Orange Plaza in West Orange, the big box retailer is taking over anchor space that was once a Kmart and expects to launch a new, state-of-the-art store next spring.Under the proposal recently approved ...
Listen to this article
Target is adding a second location in Essex County.
As part of an upgrade of West Orange Plaza in West Orange, the big box retailer is taking over anchor space that was once a Kmart and expects to launch a new, state-of-the-art store next spring.
Under the proposal recently approved by the local planning board, the Prospect Avenue shopping center will see landscaping changes; the addition of a pollinator garden; construction of pedestrian-friendly, accessible sidewalks; and installation of 16 EV charging stations, with a total of 48 units over three years, according to the municipality.
Once open, Target will join a lineup at West Orange Plaza that includes big chains, such as Jersey Mike’s Subs and Whole Foods Market, as well as several mom-and-pop businesses.
“At Target, we continuously explore possible locations for new stores, including in the New Jersey area. I can tell you we are pursuing the opportunity to reach guests in West Orange, but at this time, we’re not at a point where we can share any new store plans,” a Target representative told NJBIZ.
Within New Jersey, Target’s 51-store footprint includes only one other location in Essex County – Fairfield.
In a statement, West Orange Mayor Susan McCartney said, “We’re beyond excited for the addition of the new Target location right here in West Orange.”
“In an era when other communities are seeing stores close, we are excited to have this long-awaited, large-scale investment in brick-and-mortar retail in our community. Supporting and growing our local businesses remains one of our top priorities,” she added.
Veronica Bruzzese, whose family owns plaza tenant Frank’s Pizzeria, said they’re “very excited to be a part of the Target expansion in West Orange Plaza.”
“We are celebrating our 30th anniversary this year and are proud to be a part of West Orange’s bright future,” she stated. “We appreciate the support that the local community has given us throughout the years and look forward to the infusion of new businesses into the complex.”
Editor’s note: This story was updated at 9:03 a.m. ET Nov. 29, 2023, to include a statement from Target.
WEST ORANGE, NJ — That “light at the end of the tunnel” for the reopening of the West Orange Public Library? It’s a bit further away than expected.During a recent town council meeting, it was reported that the target date for reopening was Nov. 1. The reopening date was previously cited as “mid-October.” Read More: ...
WEST ORANGE, NJ — That “light at the end of the tunnel” for the reopening of the West Orange Public Library? It’s a bit further away than expected.
During a recent town council meeting, it was reported that the target date for reopening was Nov. 1. The reopening date was previously cited as “mid-October.” Read More: 'Light At End Of Tunnel' For Reopening Of West Orange Library
On Wednesday, the library’s director, David Cubie, released an update on the reopening plans for 10 Rooney Circle. And Nov. 1 is “most likely not a realistic time frame,” he said.
There’s another twist that needs to be addressed, Cubie added: there’s a sizable funding gap that needs to be plugged due to a 30 percent increase in construction costs – which the township was not able to cover.
Cubie’s full statement follows below.
“Dear West Orange Library Community ... We have some important updates regarding our library’s transition.
“The library annex at 80 Main Street will conclude its operations on October 27, 2023. Until the unveiling of our new home at 10 Rooney Circle, we encourage you to explore our neighboring BCCLS Member Libraries in Livingston, Millburn, Maplewood, Montclair and Roseland. With the REBL sticker on your library card, you have the privilege of accessing any library in Essex County on a walk-in basis.
“During this transitional period, our dedicated West Orange Library staff will be fully engaged in ensuring our new space is ready for you. During this time, we encourage you to make use of our extensive digital offerings, which will continue to be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you have questions about how to access these services, please email us at [email protected] or call 973-736-0198 extension 201.
“We are as excited to open the new West Orange Public Library, as you are to visit it. Unfortunately, November 1 is most likely not a realistic time frame due to the amount of work left for library staff, construction related items and inspections that must be passed before we can open. We will continue to work diligently to open as close to that date as possible. Thank you for your continued understanding during this delay. We know that it is frustrating for everyone who loves coming to their hometown library.
“While we have your attention, we would like to make you aware that due to a 30% increase in construction costs since the library project cost estimates were made in 2019, the township was not able to cover all of the costs.
“While exciting times lie ahead for the West Orange Library, we request and require our community to play a significant part in its transformation. We are introducing a host of enriching features, some of which include advanced technologies in the teen section to an enchanting activity wall for our little readers, to a special space preserving our town's historical treasures and more.
“To bring this vision to life, we are reaching out to each of you for support. Every contribution, whether big or small, will help fund these innovations and many more unique additions. With your generous, tax-deductible donations, we can truly make the West Orange Library a vibrant hub of learning and community spirit. Library Donations
“Watch this space for more details on how you can be an integral part of this journey.”
REOPENING A TOWN LIBRARY
Local officials, including Mayor Susan McCartney, have blamed several factors for the delays, including supply chain issues that have “created a domino effect.”
The new library was a key bargaining chip in a major redevelopment project at 100 and 200 Executive Drive and 10 Rooney Circle that took shape during the pandemic. See Related: Trustees Share Plans For New Library In West Orange
It was also a focal point of a recent case decided in New Jersey Supreme Court, which ruled that the previous designation of the library as an “area in need of redevelopment” was invalid. See Related: NJ Supreme Court Rules On West Orange Library Dispute
McCartney later said the Supreme Court’s decision wouldn’t impact plans to break ground on the new library. Read More: NJ Court Ruling Won't Deter West Orange's Plans, Mayor Says
After the library closed its old location at 46 Mount Pleasant Avenue in February, a temporary location was set up at 80 Main Street for a continuation of some key library services.
When it’s complete, the new library will have several public meeting rooms, state-of-the-art computer labs, eco-friendly initiatives, technological upgrades, increased storage capacities, more restroom facilities, a larger floor area, a public elevator and more opportunities for community engagement, officials said.
The library annex at 80 Main Street, suite 230, will remain open through the month of October, officials previously said.
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WEST ORANGE, NJ — A West Orange school was left without power on Monday after parts of New Jersey were walloped by rainy weather.The power outage hit Liberty Middle School hard, leaving classrooms and other portions of the building without electricity, administrators said."We are currently maintaining the students and staff in the cafeteria and in the gymnasium ... everyone is safe," district officials sa...
WEST ORANGE, NJ — A West Orange school was left without power on Monday after parts of New Jersey were walloped by rainy weather.
The power outage hit Liberty Middle School hard, leaving classrooms and other portions of the building without electricity, administrators said.
"We are currently maintaining the students and staff in the cafeteria and in the gymnasium ... everyone is safe," district officials said Monday morning.
West Orange school officials added:
"PSEG will be reporting to the building to assess and repair the situation. At moment there is no phone access other than cell via staff. Please be patient as we remedy this situation. Bathrooms are available and we are making plans for cold lunches if necessary. We will post an update regarding the status of the building as we hope to restore power as soon as possible."
School officials gave an update on the situation at 10:24 a.m.:
"PSEG has assessed the situation and provided an estimate of fully restored power for the building by 11:30 a.m. today. Our students and staff are safe and lunch is being served."
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The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook and a Flood Watch that will remain in effect in the Essex County region until 5 p.m.
A flash flood warning for Essex County hinted at the potential dangers for drivers and people who live in areas prone to flooding:
“Turn around, don`t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads. Excessive runoff from heavy rainfall will cause flooding of urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as other drainage areas and low-lying spots.”
Weather forecasters said it was "likely" that rivers and streams in North Jersey may flood during the coastal storm. Read More: 'Flood Outlook' Map Says North Jersey Rivers 'Likely' To Flood
According to the NWS Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service, water levels at two nearby rivers have risen above their typical ranges as of Monday.
The Third River at Bloomfield was at 6.22 feet at 8:05 a.m. The flood stage is 6 feet.
Meanwhile, the Peckman River at Verona was at 3.53 feet at 7:40 a.m. The flood stage is 3.5 feet.
WEST ORANGE WEATHER FORECAST
Here’s this week’s weather forecast for West Orange as of Monday morning, according to the NWS:
Today: Rain, mainly before 1pm. Temperature falling to around 51 by 1pm. South wind 9 to 18 mph becoming northwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 32 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New precipitation amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
Tonight: Partly cloudy, with a low around 35. Southwest wind 7 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 40. Northwest wind 8 to 13 mph.
Tuesday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 27. Wind chill values between 20 and 25. Northwest wind 7 to 10 mph.
Wednesday: Sunny, with a high near 43. Northwest wind 10 to 13 mph.
Wednesday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 31.
Thursday: Sunny, with a high near 45.
Thursday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 28.
Friday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 42.
Friday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 29.
Saturday: Partly sunny, with a high near 42.
Saturday Night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 31.
Sunday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 44.
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WEST ORANGE, NJ — The following article comes courtesy of West Orange Public Information Officer Joseph Fagan. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo Jr. stopped by Schneider Hardware on Main Street in West Orange on December 14 to chat and offers his congratulations. The hardware store is the oldest business in town and celebrating it...
WEST ORANGE, NJ — The following article comes courtesy of West Orange Public Information Officer Joseph Fagan. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.
Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo Jr. stopped by Schneider Hardware on Main Street in West Orange on December 14 to chat and offers his congratulations. The hardware store is the oldest business in town and celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2023. DiVincenzo presented the third-generation owners Roger and Gerald Schneider with a proclamation from Essex County acknowledging the store’s century of service.
West Orange Mayor Susan McCartney acknowledged Schneider’s Hardware with a similar proclamation at a Township Council meeting this past January. The county executive arrived ahead of schedule and only missed McCartney, Council President Tammy Williams, and Councilwoman Michelle Casalino by a matter of minutes for a photo op. Everyone however took the opportunity to extend their congratulations once again to Schneider’s Hardware and pose for a quick photo with both proclamations in front of the store.
The sign in the window says they sharpen anything however nothing could be sharper than Schneider’s Hardware focus on service. Visiting the store is as if you entered a magical portal back in time. One is greeted with all the familiar hardware store items but the surroundings are indeed remarkably different. The combined elements of the old tin ceiling, time worn hardwood flooring, and decades old hand made shelving all add to the pleasant and distinctive aroma of living history. The sights and smells provide texture to an already abundant feast for the senses. Any customer would quickly conclude that they surely have come to the right place to find what they need.
The business was founded by Isadore Schneider who first immigrated from Austria to the United States and settled in Newark. He earned a living sharpening knives. It was there that he met a seamstress Beckie Grebelsky who herself had immigrated from the Ukraine in 1911 at age 15. A romance soon blossomed and shortly after they were married, they relocated to West Orange. It was here where they opened Schneider Hardware in 1923.
The original location of the store was at Tory Corner when it was still named Valley Road. The name changed to Main Street in 1926. Ten years later the business moved just a few stores down to where it is currently located. Shortly after the hardware store was expanded to its current size occupying what once was part of the game room for the former Tory Corner Tavern.
Isadore and Beckie Schneider never received much of a formal education and although their native language was Yiddish they learned to communicate in English. Isadore eventually learned to speak several languages including Italian. Schneider Hardware soon gained a foothold in the community by developing a reputation for customer service. Often times Isadore would go to a customer’s house after hours free of charge to help them with home repairs with supplies purchased at the store.
Eventually the business passed on to the second generation when their son Leon Schneider took over about 1946 following his service in World War II. Lee played football at West Orange High School and graduated in 1939. He began working at the hardware store as a teenager and became a dedicated hard working and resourceful civic minded businessman. Anyone who got to know Lee saw his lust for life through his jokes and storytelling, anecdotes, and his own contagious passion for West Orange history. Lee Schneider retired in 1999 and passed away in 2002 with more than 60 years of experience in the business that his father started.
Most retail businesses today rely on computerized UPC coding for inventory control, pricing, and sales receipts. However today the store is operated by the grandsons of the original founders who adhere to the old-world values taught to them. Roger and Gerald are third generation owners who proudly carry on the tradition endeared upon them by their father and grandfather. They even still use the old cash register and hand write receipts They have brought the business into the 21st century by carving out a niche despite difficult economic times. It is not only the oldest business in West Orange but also stakes the claim of being the oldest hardware store in Essex County continually operated by the same family.
Roger and Gerald Schneider proudly stand in the long shadow cast by the store’s historic past. Its story is closely interwoven into West Orange’s own history. Their grandparents Isadore and Beckie Schneider who started the business in 1923 would certainly smile with approval today knowing their vision of the American dream is now shared by their grandsons. Their late father Lee Schneider would be equally proud to know the legacy he passed on to them continues.
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