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We Are Thankful!

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November 2023 PUBLISHER S

Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@citylifestyle.com Tiffany Slowinski | tiffany.slowinski@citylifestyle.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

EDITOR

Grateful Hearts Gather

MAR KET SUPPORT DIR ECTOR

As we find ourselves amidst a season of turkey-induced comas and the embrace of cozy sweater weather, our hearts brim with the warmth that rivals that extra slice of pumpkin pie. While we’re unapologetic dream-chasers, goal-crushers and sometimes even harbor aspirations of world domination (well, at least in the realm of dessert domination), we’ve come to a profound realization that life isn’t solely about the relentless pursuit of success. It’s equally about cherishing the idiosyncratic characters that populate our lives, such as that eccentric uncle whose mere mention of cranberry sauce can spark a passionate debate. (Yes, it’s a surprisingly polarizing topic.) Lionel Hampton aptly remarked, “Gratitude is when memory is stored in the heart and not in the mind.” For us, dear readers, Thanksgiving is the ultimate family reunion, a fusion of gratitude and gluttony akin to a superhero team-up. In this November edition, we dedicate our pages to narratives of gathering around the table, enumerating our blessings and extending a hand to our community. On our cover, we spotlight a special duo very close to my heart: my youngest daughter, Violet, and her steadfast companion, Reid. Their unique connection melds the antics of siblings with the endearing quirks of an old married couple. The inspiration for this cover shoot was borne from a nostalgic moment as I perused a cherished holiday photo of Violet from last year. Although my perspective may be colored by parental pride, I couldn’t help but see her as the embodiment of the perfect cover model. Thanks to a brilliant suggestion from my husband, we decided to include her charismatic partner-in-crime, Reid, to authentically capture their vibrant synergy. This month, we’d like to express our gratitude to the local businesses and neighbors who contribute to the magic of this publication. They are the secret ingredient in our Thanksgiving gravy, indispensable and undeniably delightful. May your Thanksgiving overflow with mirth, affection and that fine equilibrium between elastic waistbands and stretchy pants. Here’s to you and your marvelous family! Cheers!

Patti Zielinski | patti.zielinski@citylifestyle.com

Kristin Kosmoski | kristin.kosmoski@citylifestyle.com CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Amanda Castleman, Violet Slowinski, Reid Taylor CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Donna Gioia Volpe, Brian Gornick, Liz Polo (Havana Photography), Media x Marketing, Julianne Reynolds

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Josh Govero LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

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Proverbs 3:5-6 Bridgewater City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Bridgewater area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Bridgewater City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered

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inside the issue The Thankful Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

14 The Heart of a Friend

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Kids Corner LI FE + C U LT U R E

Get Active S PO RTS + R EC R EAT ION

Our Town LO CA L S ERV I C ES

Giving Back LO CA L S ERV I C ES

Inspired By LI FE + C U LT U R E

Events

Hosting Tips HO ME + DES I GN

Realty Report R EA L ESTAT E

Two Young Friends Share What Makes Their Friendship Special

18 Field of Sweet Dreams

Master Coach Duke Baxter Teaches Kids and Parents to Lead With Joy, Not Competition

24 Stronger Together

For 25 Years, the Bridgewater JCC has Supported the Community in Times of Need

38 A Life of Purpose, A Life Fulfilled

Mel Klein, 96, a Resident of the Delaney of Bridgewater, Shares What Makes Him Grateful

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Julianne Reynolds Violet Slowinski and Reid Taylor, first graders at Crim Primary School, are grateful to be lifelong friends. Flowers: Laura Clare Design, Far Hills. Kitchen: J2 Design Studio, Bedminster. Home: Pedro and Lisa Salgado, Bridgewater.

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city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

BRIDGEWATER TOWNSHIP

SOMERSET COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM OF NEW JERSEY

FINANCIAL RESOURCES FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

BRIDGEWATER-RARITAN REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

CREATIVE EYE

BRIDGEWATER-RARITAN REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

SOMERSET COUNTY 4-H

1: The Somerville Library received tomatoes from a local farmer and gave them out for free. 2: Bridgewater City Lifestyle photographer David Surks captured the TidalWave Music Festival. 3: Vithika Pant, Meera Joshi and Simran Agarwala presented on drowsy driving to the Bridgewater Council. 4: FRFCU collected and donated supplies to United Way's Tools for Schools Drive. 5: Bridgewater-Raritan Middle School 8th grade teacher Rob Ambrose wrote “Dino Style” about dinosaurs and graffiti. 6: Bridgewater-Raritan High School’s new head football coach, DJ Catalano, prepared for the season. 7: The Clover Ensemble performed at the Somerset County 4-H Fair.

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ARTICLE BY VIOLET SLOWINSKI & REID TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIANNE REYNOLDS

The Heart of a Friend TWO YOUNG FRIENDS SHARE WHAT MAKES THEIR FRIENDSHIP SPECIAL

Lifelong friends Violet Slowinski and Reid Taylor, both first graders at Crim Primary School and Martinsville residents, first met as babies in strollers tagging along at their older sisters’ dance competitions. Over the past seven years, their friendship has flourished and they have spent many days together swimming in the Taylor family pool and vacationing down the Shore. The friends share their gratitude for their friendship and family: Reid: “I am thankful for Violet because she is my friend and we play Roblox together. I am thankful for my family because I love them and they make me happy. I am thankful for my dog, Piper, because she’s cute and cuddly.” Violet: “I am thankful that Reid is my friend and that I get to go and play at his house. I am thankful for my lovely house because my parents worked really hard to get it. I love that I have a loft bed.” Flowers: Laura Clare Design, Far Hills. Kitchen: J2 Design Studio, Bedminster. Home: Pedro and Lisa Salgado, Bridgewater.

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Field of Sweet Dreams

Master Coach Duke Baxter Teaches Kids and Parents to Lead With Joy, Not Competition ARTICLE BY AMANDA CASTLEMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN GORNICK

Julia Blarr, director of softball

G E T AC T IV E | SPORTS + RE CRE ATI ON

Sometimes it’s not all about winning, explains Duke Baxter, owner of Zoned, a Bridgewater baseball and softball developmental training facility. Don’t get him wrong. Baxter loves a success story and hosts Signing Days for all of the academy’s athletes about to play in college. And the company has many each year, especially after encouraging student leaders with $224,000 in scholarships since 2007. And he’s no slouch either. Baxter's professional baseball career spanned three years, commencing with a Wisconsin team that has since disbanded, followed by a stint with the Somerset Patriots. Additionally, he boasts two patents related to baseball and softball training aids. Furthermore, he co-authored the book "Taking on the Title of COACH" to assist parents taking on coaching roles and initiated the online academy, Dominate the Diamond, in 2017 to provide them with further support. Despite all his accomplishments, Baxter’s message remains simple: more play, less pressure. Children have been grappling with increasing anxiety and depression for decades now and evidence suggests the pandemic was a force multiplier. “As soon as they struggle, some just want to quit,” Baxter says. “They’re just so quick to shut it down now.” So he tells them: “Hey, who cares? You just struck out, but that’s part of the game.” “We’re not going to be perfect,” he says. “We’re going to make a lot of bad swings. But we’re gonna take a lot of good swings, too.’” He encourages kids—and coaches—to focus on the wins. “If you get three hits with ten at-bats, you make it to the Hall of Fame. So, are you focused on the seven outs you made—a negative outlook—or the three times you got hits—a positive outlook?” Of course, teaching and training often involve suggestions to fine-tune skills. But Baxter likes to stop

players from over-indexing on the stumbles. “Disrupt the negative mindset and move on,” he says. “What did you learn from those strikeouts? Okay, so that’s done and now we have a clean slate. Let’s go!” Baxter practices what he preaches as a parent, too, avoiding the all-too-common “dreadful car ride home” post-mortems. When he wears his baseball cap, he’s available to analyze games where he coached his four kids. And if they want to get into it, they wear their hats, too. Otherwise, he says, “I only talk as a dad. This gives the player the right to direct and control the setting, not the parent.” Millions have watched his videos on social media and have followed suit. “People say how it changed their lives and relationships with their kids,” he says. “They hadn’t realized what they were doing and how harmful it was to their relationships.” This kind, caring approach permeates Zoned. Even its star athletes—like a student who just signed at the University of Massachusetts—say they would tell their younger selves to relax and enjoy the game more. Take the pressure off. Don’t worry about what everybody else is doing. Don’t worry about what college you’ll be at. Just play with your friends and enjoy it because it all goes by so fast. Yoga and mindfulness meditation have helped Baxter find—and share—this grace and gratitude after a hard-driven youth. “I still do my best and I’m very competitive, but I used to hate to lose and now I love losing! It’s like if you were playing cornhole: Would you rather be the person who would crush everyone or would you rather play against guys who elevate you to be even better? I love being the underdog. What am I going to learn and do and how am I going to raise myself to that next level? Just enjoy the ride!”

“Would you rather be the person who would crush everyone or would you rather play against guys who elevate you to be even better? I love being the underdog. What am I going to learn and do and how am I going to raise myself to that next level? Just enjoy the ride!”

CONTINUED >

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Steve Nikorak, vice president, Zoned

“Self-talk is important. I’m realizing that as I get older. These kids should talk to themselves as if they were giving their best friend advice.” Part of that, for Baxter, involves celebrating the wins more. “I used to just hit a goal and move onto the next thing and never really even be happy with what I did, because I could have done better,” he says. “Self-talk is important. I’m realizing that as I get older. These kids should talk to themselves as if they were giving their best friend advice.”

G E T AC T IV E | SPORTS + RE CRE ATI ON

Baxter encourages kids to ease up and show themselves the kindness they give others. And he’s also a fan of the author and motivational speaker Mel Robbins, who recommends high-fiving yourself in the mirror every morning. “Give yourself permission to go and be great,” Baxter says. Learn more about Zoned at ZonedInc.com.

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St ronger Together For 25 Years, the Bridgewater JCC has Supported the Community in Times of Need

CONTINUED >

O UR TOWN | LOCAL SERVI CE S

ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI

staff or a JCC member. “We post signs in the building, use social media and eblasts to promote calls for charitable donations of funds or goods,” says Debbie Golden, special projects and marketing director. “So, we may raise funds for an organization like the Make a Wish Foundation or collect items like toiletries for a local non-profit. One of our goals is to take care of the community as a whole.” The JCC also actively raises money throughout the year through events like its annual Golf, Tennis and Pickleball Outing and sponsorships that fund scholarship support for their various programs. On average, the JCC gives out over $350,000 in scholarships annually. “We are a social service agency that helps individuals and families as well as supports other social services agencies,” Friedman says. “Our goal is to make sure that no one is ever denied services or programs because they can’t afford it. Whether you are a JCC member or not, you are eligible for scholarship assistance to help with programs like child care, camp and special needs.”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIZ POLO, HAVANA PHOTOGRAPHY

Neighbors helping neighbors. That’s what makes a community strong. As they reach a 25-year milestone in December, the Shimon and Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community Center (JCC) in Bridgewater has been working to make life better for people in the immediate community as well as far away. “Part of our mission is that we are here for everyone—no matter who they are—and we want the entire community to have access,” says Paige Silberfein, associate executive director. Each year, the JCC focuses on a number of initiatives that help them give back to the community. In a nod to March Madness, the Division I men’s basketball tournament, the JCC staff celebrates “March Mitzvah Madness.” “‘Mitzvah’ means ‘good deed,’” says Laura Friedman, executive director. “We select six or seven organizations each year to support.” The leadership invites staff to suggest ways to help a local social service agency, a national organization or agencies in Israel. Sometimes, they select an organization that has a personal connection to

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B R I D G E WAT E R

“ We wa nt ever yone to k now that they a re welcomed , that ou r doors a re open .” The JCC also partners with local social service agencies like HOME in Somerville, which helps families that are unhoused by providing free services. “We want every child to have an opportunity to have a fun experience, as well as every parent to have the opportunity to have a daycare, even if they cannot afford it. It is one of the things we are most proud of. Our board of directors has made it very clear that even if we deplete our scholarship funds, we will not turn someone down who needs our help.” Throughout the year, the JCC partners with Bridgewater Township and Bridgewater Commons on large-scale free events, which provide an opportunity for the community to come together as well as to raise money to support JCC programming. “In the fall, thousands of people enjoy our Family Fun Day held outdoors at Bridgewater Commons. This event features about 75 activities, including the popular Touch-a-Truck, which allows children to experience various trucks and emergency services equipment up close,” Friedman says. “In the spring, we partner again with Bridgewater Township and Bridgewater Commons for our annual Spring Carnival, also held at the same location.” The JCC also opens its doors during times of need. For weeks after Hurricane

Sandy, it provided people with assistance of shelter and use of its facilities. During the pandemic, it helped the food bank by providing extra food storage in the gymnasium. In addition, every week, they open their doors to give groups and programs like Alcoholics Anonymous a safe, comfortable space to meet. “The JCC is not about our building,” Silberfein says. “It’s about what we do for the community. We work to serve any person in need, regardless of religion and financial ability.” They proactively reach out to agencies to assess needs rather than wait for them to contact the JCC for help. “For example, since our building is completely ADA accessible, we reach out to the area group homes to invite residents to events like our annual Prom for Adults with Special Needs. We want everyone to know that they are welcomed, that our doors are open,” Golden says. “We cannot do what we do without the community’s help,” Friedman says. “We are always looking to form new community partnerships so that we can continue doing what we’re doing and do even more.” Learn more about how to help the JCC and about the programs it offers at ssbjcc.org. CONTINUED >

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the giving table ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEDIA X MARKETING

TO ELIJAH’S PROMISE COMMUNITY KITCHEN, FOOD IS POWER

For the past 35 years, Elijah’s Promise Community Kitchen in New Brunswick has been harnessing the power of food to break the cycle of poverty, alleviate hunger and change lives. Stacy Lopez, associate director of development, discusses how the organization is working to make life better for underserved populations.

G IV IN G BAC K | LOCA L SERVI CE S

WHAT SERVICES DOES ELIJAH’S PROMISE PROVIDE? We strive to do more to change lives through our programs and services. For example, we serve more than 350,000 free, nutritious meals a year at our Community Soup Kitchen. Our Promise Culinary School provides job training annually to about 50 students who need marketable job skills. The Let’s Cook! classes teach adults and children healthy recipes. Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School is our partner in the Promise Clinic, which provides free primary care medical services and social services to our uninsured clients. In addition, we have a Social Service team that brings food, clothing and hygiene products to homeless people throughout Middlesex County. We also guide our clients to services like state and federal assistance programs and counseling to help them achieve their goals of longterm health and success. CONTINUED >

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B R I D G E WAT E R

WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING ASPECTS OF YOUR WORK? We are a reliable community. Regardless of the weather, a global pandemic or economic uncertainties, we have never missed a day in over three decades of serving our guests hot, free meals.

HOW DO YOU HELP GUESTS WITH THE CHALLENGES THEY FACE? Our guests struggle with finding the proper assistance and social services. They seek help with basic needs like food, housing and clothing. We help them connect to resources that can assist. Help Elijah’s Promise continue its legacy of services. Contribute monetary donations online at ElijahsPromise.org/Donate, via Venmo (@ElijahsPromise) or by mailing a check to Elijah’s Promise at 18 Neilson St., New Brunswick, NJ 08901. It is also seeking volunteers to assist with food preparation and items from its wish list: lunch bags, utensil bundles, snack packs and hygiene kits. Discover the ways you help at ElijahsPromise.org/volunteer.

G IV IN G BAC K | LOCA L SERVI CE S

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RACQUET SPORTS Four Har-Tru Tennis Hydrocourts, Four Pickleball Courts, Two Indoor Squash Courts

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DINING & SOCIAL EVENTS

Join now through November 30th and receive:

Indoor and Outdoor Dining, skillfully crafted menus that change regularly, and a full calendar of social events

$2,500 off Golf Initiation Fee Complimentary club access through December 31, 2023 No Food Minimums Raritan Valley Country Club is a great place for families to gather, develop meaningful relationships and create wonderful memories. Our members enjoy amenities including golf, racquet sports, a resort-style pool, youth programs, exquisite dining and a full calendar of social events. As a Troon® managed private club, members also receive exclusive access to extraordinary golf and lifestyle benefits throughout the world with Troon Privé Privileges.

GOLF 18-Hole Championship Golf Course, Full-Swing Driving Range, Short Game Practice Area and Putting Green

With club-wide capital improvements on the horizon, it's an exciting time for RVCC! Become a part of our community and watch us as we grow. The best is yet to come!

RARITAN VALLEY COUNTRY CLUB 747 STATE ROUTE 28 BRIDGEWATER, NEW JERSEY 08807

908.722.2000 x207 membership@rvcc1911.org www.rvcc1911.org

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AQUATICS Heated Swimming Pool with Water Slide, NEW for 2024 Poolside Bar and updated Pool Locker Rooms and Snack Bar

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50 Division St., Ste. #501 Somerville, NJ 08876 Free Parking in Downtown Location

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NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B R I D G E WAT E R

A LIFE OF PURPOSE, A LIFE FULFILLED Mel Klein, 96, a Resident of the Delaney of Bridgewater, Shares What Makes Him Grateful

Mel Klein When I was about 23 and a senior, I was thinking I was going to be an old man. I wanted to be with someone who shared my religious philosophy. I had an opportunity to meet Jean, a young lady who was a freshman, and we started dating. Since I was about to graduate, I started interviewing for teaching jobs. I recall I had my first interview in a rural area of Western Pennsylvania with a superintendent who was milking a cow while we spoke. That was a unique beginning to my life as a teacher. I was in farm country for two years and learned a lot of things. Jean transferred schools to be with me.

WHAT ARE YOU MOST GRATEFUL FOR IN YOUR LIFE?

CAN YOU TELL US WHAT IS MOST IMPORTANT IN LIFE?

I am grateful for my three daughters—Kathy, Linda and Leslie—and my wife, Jean. I originally attended Carnegie Tech for engineering but realized that would not be my career of choice. However, I took all my math and science courses and when I finished serving in the Navy during World War II, I decided to be a teacher. I went to a school with a funny name: Slippery Rock State Teachers College. It was the best decision I ever made.

Family. I was at Glen Ridge High School for 11 years, where I taught Math and was the head tennis and basketball coach. This kept me away from home many nights and weekends. One night, my daughter Kathy jokingly said, “Who is that man?” when I came home. I thought about this and told Jean that I would do this work one more year, then I would give up coaching and we would move to the New Jersey–New York area.

“Giving back is your opportunity to grow as a person. It’s like going to graduate school, only you are learning more about sharing.”

ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DONNA GIOIA VOLPE

I NSP IR E D BY | L IFE + CULTURE

We moved to Livingston, but guess what? A couple of years later, I was named principal when the principal resigned and had a lot of night meetings again. Eventually, I became the Superintendent of the Livingston School District.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THANKSGIVING MEMORY? When Leslie, my youngest child, was around 4, she was starting to understand what family life was and I taught her the meaning of Thanksgiving— beyond the football games.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT YOUR LIFE NOW? I have been at The Delaney for two years and am very happy here. I get everything that I need and am able to contribute as well. I have made great friends— both male and female. I have learned that in this social world a man and a woman can be friends. I have grown as a person being around my friends here. The staff at The Delaney has become an extension of family, from the hourly staff to management.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR YOUNGER GENERATIONS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF GIVING BACK? Giving back is your opportunity to grow as a person. It’s like going to graduate school, only you are learning more about sharing. Find out more about The Delaney of Bridgewater at TheDelaneyOfBridgewater.com.

CONTINUED >

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B R I D G E WAT E R

“I have grown as a person being around my friends here. The staff at The Delaney has become an extension of family, from the hourly staff to management.”

I NSP IR E D BY | L IFE + CULTURE

Comprehensive mediCal Care Raritan Family Health Care is the most accommodating and accredited family healthcare facility in Central NJ. We provide exemplary personalized service in a welcoming atmosphere. We proudly offer same day appointments and extended early morning/evening/weekend hours for your convenience. Welcome, this is our family caring for your family.

raritanfamily.com

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N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3

BUSINESS OWNERS SAVE $20K ON YOUR 2023 INCOME TAXES TODAY! $500 OFF ANY SERVICE In house appointment or via Zoom Contact Nancy at 973. 605.1212 x21 or nancy@dpvcpa.com for an appointment. Offer ends 11/20/2023

PLEASE CALL FOR A CONSULTATION NOW!

THR OUGH FEBR UARY 4 TH

Flame to Flower: The Art of Paul J. Stankard

NOVEMBER 5TH

Daniel P. Vigilante,

The Complete History Of Comedy (Abridged)

CPA & Certified Tax Coach Morris Plains, NJ

Come see us at our NEW LOCATION 326 US 22 W SUITES 11-13A GREEN BROOK Extending our $25 new studen t special

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Grand Opening Celebration happening SOON!

(732) 968-7600 • AMDANCING.COM EVE N TS

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

MO R R I S MUS E UM, 6 NO R MA NDY H E I G H TS R D., MO R R I STOWN “From Flame to Flower: The Art of Paul J. Stankard” is a retrospective of one of New Jersey’s most prominent glass artists. MorrisMuseum.org

(973) 605-1212 | dan@dpvcpa.com | www.dpvcpa.com

events

R A R I TA N VA L L E Y C O MMUNI T Y C O L L E G E P E R F O R MI NG A RTS C E NT E R , 1 1 8 L A MI NGTO N R D. , B R A NC H B UR G | 2:0 0 P M The Reduced Shakespeare Company has skewered history, the Bible and the world’s most celebrated playwright. rvccarts.org NOVEMBER 10 TH - 19 TH

The Little Mermaid

V I L L AG E R S T H E AT R E , 4 7 5 DE MOT T L A NE , S O ME R S E T Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories and the classic animated film, Disney’s The Little Mermaid is a hauntingly beautiful love story for the ages. VillagersTheatre.com NOVEMBER 11TH

Joshua Kane’s Borders of the Mind

S I E MI NS KI T H E AT E R C ULT UR A L A RTS C E NT E R , 8 0 0 0 F E L LOWS H I P R D., B AS K I NG R I DG E | 7 :30 P M Can he read your mind? Discover your inner superhero in this amazing interactive performance. sieminskitheater.org

N OV E M BE R 1 2 T H

Gladys Knight

N JPAC, O NE CEN TER ST., N EWARK | 7 : 0 0 PM The multi-Grammy winner shares songs and stories from her incredible career spanning over 50 years. njpac.org N OV E M BE R 1 8T H & 19TH

Chicago the Musical

STATE TH E ATR E N EW J ERS EY, 1 5 LIVINGSTO N AVE., N EW B RU NSWICK Celebrating 25 years, “Chicago” has been honored with six Tony Awards, two Olivier Awards and a Grammy. stnj.org N OV E M BE R 1 9 T H

Celebrate Israel at 75

S H IM O N AND SARA BIRN BAUM J EWISH CO M MUN ITY C E NT ER, 7 7 5 TALAMIN I R D., B RID GE WATE R | 10:00 AM This event is in support of Israel Bonds. Guest speaker is attorney and CNN senior legal analyst Eli Honig. ssbjcc.org N OV E M BE R 2 3 RD

Somerville 5K Turkey Trot

1 7 0 E. M AIN ST., S OMERVILLE | 9 : 0 0 AM Racers of all ages can compete in this 5K, which benefits the Somerville Recreation Department’s Programming. RunSignUp.com/Somerville5k N OV E M BE R 2 6T H

A Charlie Brown Christmas Live on Stage

MAYO PERF O RMIN G ARTS C E NT ER, 10 0 S OUTH ST., MO RRISTOWN Everyone’s favorite holiday classic comes to life as Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, and the whole Peanuts gang produce their own Christmas play and ultimately learn the true meaning of the season. MayoArts.org

WELCOME TO YOUR NEW

lease ON LIFE.

Discover a renewed sense of independence at our rental community providing: • Sophisticated surroundings, with freestanding villas • A continuum of care • True, worry-free retirement living with no entrance fee required Call or visit our website to learn more and schedule a tour: (732) 733-4568 | TheDelaneyofBridgewater.com

901 Frontier Road | Bridgewater, NJ 08807 TheDelaneyofBridgewater.com BridgewaterLIFE@TheDelaneyofBridgewater.com

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Bridgewater

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B R I D G E WAT E R

Gather

Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving or an autumn dinner party, setting a festive table creates the perfect cozy atmosphere. Improvise and use what you have around the house for adding elements to the table. Candlesticks, vases, little pumpkins and gourds, or fall decor you have on hand can make a great centerpiece. Add fresh flowers or dried foliage for that extra layer of texture and color.

Set t ing th e Fa l l Ta bl e ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

H OST IN G T IP S | HOM E + DE S I GN

e Tr

ad i t i o n al Table For this classic, traditional look, a plaid throw blanket stands in for a tablecloth to establish a festive base layer. Brass candlesticks with brown taper candles create a simple and elegant centerpiece. Use familiar accents such as amber jars filled with dried grass foliage and brass pheasants to adorn the table. To add a little character to the table, use a recycled wine bottle as a vase. The simple place setting is enhanced with a dried grass accent and brown silk ribbon tied into a bow to add a special touch to your traditional display. CONTINUED >

CONTINUED >

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B R I D G E WAT E R

The F

all

yT able

Are you planning to dine al fresco this fall? Create an earthy, fall garden party on the porch by using natural, organic elements, greenery and flowers. To make a statement, create a floral chandelier by hanging flowers upside down above the table using fishing wire (if your space allows). The centerpiece that runs down the length of this table consists of fresh eucalyptus with gold candlesticks and a ceramic pumpkin vase filled with flowers placed on top a tree trunk charger. Adding small pumpkins and fresh flowers along the center gives a little extra character. Instead of going with the classic white plate, enjoy a pop of color at your outdoor fall garden party with a blue place setting as a nod to the sky. Adding a cloth napkin and cloth placemat is a great way to add texture and more autumn color to your table. If the weather doesn’t cooperate on your day, bring the outdoors in with a lovely indoor garden party dressed up in fall foliage.

H OST IN G T IP S | HOM E + DE S I GN

CONTINUED >

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B R I D G E WAT E R

re nc h Co u n t r y Table

H OST IN G T IP S | HOM E + DE S I GN

Rustic yet elegant, this tablescape combines the love of traditional, vintage and natural elements with an updated twist. Inspired by wooded acreage, the Spode Woodland Collection transferware designs are rooted in proper hunting tradition and perfect for marrying nature with traditional elegance. Dating back to 1831, the collection features various animals centered by the British Flowers border. This French antique dining room set was chosen for an intimate gathering for four. The fawn table runner mimicking deer spots brings an earthy, yet elevated foundation as the base for this table setting. Coordinating fawn napkins wrapped with twine and topped with natural feathers creates a whimsical touch. The stunning centerpiece starts with a vintage silver water pitcher that is then filled with fresh, sweet arrowwood Viburnums leaves. To complete the look, pair crystal glasses with vintage crystal stemware, and mix gold flatware with antique silver water pitchers, delicate salt and pepper shakers and your favorite trays.

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Baseball & Softball Classes Baseball Membership Pitchers Velocity Class Zoned Strength For more info visit our website at www.zonedinc.com or call us (732) 537-1770 NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B R I D G E WAT E R

N OVE MBE R 2 0 2 3

realty report A sample of recently sold properties in Bridgewater. N E I GH BO RH O O D

ORIGIN AL PRICE

SO L D P RIC E

%SO L D/ O RIG

DO M

B DRM S

B AT H S

4 Ridgeview Terrace

$1,629,000

100%

208

5.1

61 Nicole Terrace

$1,400,000

100%

4.1

620 Stangle Road

$1,350,000

100%

4.1

3 Eddy Lane

$1,199,999

$1,110,000

93%

4.1

81 Woodlawn Avenue

$969,000

100%

106

182 Finderne Avenue

$888,888

100%

118

142 Brahma Avenue

$849,900

$750,000

88%

2.1

2 Waldron Drive

$829,000

$835,000

101%

3.1

1112 Crim Road

$825,000

$786,000

95%

3.1

23 Mcbride Way

$800,000

$881,000

110%

2.1

9 Craft Farm Drive

$799,999

$840,000

105%

2.1

416 Vanderveer Road

$799,000

$741,000

93%

2.1

3 King Drive

$783,000

$825,000

105%

2.1

787 Byrd Avenue

$724,910

$735,000

101%

2.1

2207 Perrine Road

$724,900

$755,000

104%

3.1

5 Joanne Court

$699,000

$780,000

112%

2.1

24 Roanoke Road

$688,000

$660,000

96%

2.1

771 W Foothill Road

$679,900

$669,000

98%

54 Claire Drive

$650,000

$685,000

105%

2.1

61 Loft Drive

$630,000

$645,000

102%

2.1

735 Route 202

$599,900

$460,000

77%

118

41 Claire Drive

$599,000

$620,000

104%

1.1

304 English Court

$589,000

$615,000

104%

2.1

834 Country Club Road

$569,900

$620,000

109%

1.1

1660 Valley View Road

$550,000

$655,000

119%

This representation is based in whole or in part on data supplied by the Garden State Multiple Listing Service (GSMLS), LLC which does not guarantee nor is any way responsible for its accuracy. Data provided by the GSMLS, LLC may not reflect all real estate activity in the market. This data is a sampling of sales from 08/22/23 - 09/22/23. DOM is Days on Market.

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B R I D G E WAT E R

Premier Pet Care, Luxury Dog Boarding & Daycare

Come in for a tour to see why K9 Resorts truly offers a 5-Star Experience, Love & Fun Included! www.k9resorts.com | 908-417-6886 hillsborough@k9resorts.com 63 US-206 Suite 100 Hillsborough, NJ