feature story / 15 game, I will win every dinner party conversation for the rest of my life.” Another “club” that clearly brings Dan a lot of joy is Ultimate Frisbee, which he got to discuss for the famous show banter portion with Alex Trebek. “It makes me very proud to represent such a long-standing tradition in a re- ally good sport. I hope I did the boys proud when I was on TV,” he says. Alison Oxman, knowing the num- ber of kids who audition and the small percentage who actually make it to the show, says her son continues to surpass all of her expectations. “It’s not that he’s smart, which I know, but that he has the guts to try and the confidence to audition.” She recalled that even Alex Trebek appeared to get choked up at the end of taping, as the host congratulated the group of parents on their children’s performances. So, what is Daniel’s advice to fans interested in trying out for Jeopardy? “Don’t be afraid of failing – multiple times,” he says, and describes a few contestants he met who had tried out for the show before and weren’t select- ed, but didn’t give up and ultimately made it on. “And be yourself, but not too much. Enjoy the show and try your best.” As a result of this interview, South Or- ange resident and magazine editor Keli A. Tianga has resolved to begin training her youngest child, aged 7, for Jeopardy’s Teen Tournament. MAGGIE AXELROD-CALISTER “May your thirst for life never run dry” merry christmas and happy new year from all of us at St. James’s Gate Authentic Irish Cuisine, Irish Coffee, Fine Wines and Irish Whiskey worthy of Celtic Kings Experience the best of Ireland’s Pub traditions Family Friendly • Good Cheer Raw Bar on Fridays 4–7 p.m. STOCKING STUFFERS • HOLIDAY TEE SHIRTS FOR GIFT GIVING • GIFT CARDS www.stjamesgatepublickhouse.com Join us fireside for lunch and dinner 167 Maplewood Avenue Maplewood Village 973-378-2222 Check our website for upcoming events Stop by and check out our NEW MENU!!