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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Happy New Year, Bridgewater! As we bid farewell to the old and embrace the new, I find myself reflecting on the swift passage of time. “Auld lang syne,” a phrase that resonates with nostalgia, translates to “old long since” and invites us to ponder times gone by. It’s a reminder that, much like the turning of calendar pages, life rushes forward with a swiftness that can catch us off guard. Isn’t it amusing how we make New Year’s resolutions with the best of intentions, only to find ourselves caught in a dance with temptation and the occasional indulgence? The treadmill beckons, the salad bowl smiles and the novel you promised to read sits patiently on the bedside table, all while the allure of cozy blankets and comfort food proves to be a formidable adversary. It’s a universal struggle, a testament to the human spirit’s eternal battle between aspirations and the alluring call of familiarity. So, do you follow through with your resolutions or gleefully break free from the self-imposed chains of discipline? Whichever path you choose, remember that the journey toward health and wellness is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s okay to stumble, to savor that slice of cake and to relish in the simple joys that bring a twinkle to your eye. As we kick off the year with our January Health + Wellness Issue, we invite you to join us on a delightful exploration of self-care and balance. In these pages, you’ll find a trove of insights and tips to inspire your journey toward a healthier and more vibrant you. Our contributors have poured their expertise into articles that touch on physical well-being, mental resilience and the pursuit of that elusive equilibrium between work and play. This issue is a celebration of the marvelous complexity that is you. It’s a reminder that health and wellness are not one-size-fits-all but a personal odyssey where you set the course. So, Bridgewater, let’s embark on this adventure together. Let’s navigate the twists and turns of our resolutions, finding joy in both the triumphs and the charming missteps. May this year be a tapestry woven with the threads of good health, happiness and a touch of well-deserved indulgence. Here’s to a splendid journey through the Health + Wellness Issue and to a year filled with discovery, growth and the occasional guilty pleasure. Wishing you a joyous and vibrant New Year! Warm regards,

T I F FA N Y & JA K E S LOW I N S K I , P U B L I S H E R S @ B R I D G E W AT E R _ S O M E R S E T _ H I L L S

January 2024 PUBLISHERS

Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@citylifestyle.com Tiffany Slowinski | tiffany.slowinski@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Patti Zielinski | patti.zielinski@citylifestyle.com P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R

Kristin Kosmoski | kristin.kosmoski@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Stacy Ling, Carly Mac Manus, Bruce Moran C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Donna Gioia Volpe, Brian Gornick, Stacy Ling, Jillian Spencer

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

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. 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

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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 to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S

24 36

Featured

24 30 36 8

Raising Tech-Wise Kids

Technology Progresses Fast—and Keeping Up Sharpens Kids’ Minds

Improving Mental Health Care

SRB Philanthropy Corp is Raising Awareness—and Funds— to Help Bolster the Mental Health Workforce

Net Gains

Bridgewater’s Casey Murphy Shows How to Set— and Defend—Goals

Core Power

Train Your Body and Mind with a Low-Impact Workout: Pilates

14 On the Cover

Departments

Casey Murphy went from BridgewaterRaritan Regional High School soccer star to the World Cup but always remembers her roots.

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Kids Corner EDUCATION

Healthy Lifestyle HEALTH + WELLNESS

Giving Back WELLNESS

Local Limelight SPORTS + RECREATION

Get Active FITNESS

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E

Photography: Rutgers Athletics

How To FOOD + BEVERAGE

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1: Mayor Matthew Moench and Council President Michael Kirsh attended the Walk to Fight Alzheimer’s. 2: Bridgewater-Raritan High School Marching Band celebrated a successful season. 3: Eisenhower Intermediate School held a fundraiser for classmate Jabez Manalo. 4: Over 200 people joined Team ROAR 5K Run and 1-Mile Walk at Duke Island Park. 5: Publishers Jake and Tiffany Slowinski with Kevin Yento at the Twilight Broker Open House. 6: Owners Dana Kane and Lucy Sandler with Publisher Tiffany Slowinski at House of Blooms’ Makeover Celebration. 7: Officer Scott Woodruff competed in the New York City Marathon.

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R A ISING tech-wise KIDS

TECHNOLOGY PROGRESSES FAST—AND KEEPING UP SHARPENS KIDS’ MINDS

ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN GORNICK

When Kalash Keote and Sangeeta Gupta sought STEM and coding programs that aligned with the latest technology for their twin son and daughter, they encountered a gap in available options. Leveraging their 25 years of technology expertise, the Bridgewater couple identified disparities between the current industry trends and the educational offerings.

K I D S COR N E R | EDUCATION

So, they decided to fill that need. In March, they opened a franchise of iCode in Bridgewater, which offers a series of classes, workshops and camps for kids in kindergarten through the twelfth grade and teaches everything from block coding to designing to robotics. “Unlike other programs, iCode Bridgewater classes are all instructor-led,” said Keote, who is Director of Digital Technologies in the IT field. “The franchise also has a great model and focus for curriculum. What is current today may be out of date tomorrow. The franchise has a curriculum development team that is always revamping the curriculum to make sure it is really up to date on the current technology.” iCode transcends coding to involve critical thinking, using logic and learning skills essential to working as a team—just like in the real world. “Team building helps the kids transition into the real environment,” he says. “It shows them what to anticipate when they grow up and go out into the field.” The program uses platforms kids love, like Roblox and Minecraft, and incorporates 3-D printers, drones, virtual reality headsets and robotics. It also focuses on the artistic applications in technology and employing a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) curriculum. “So, beyond the coding, kids are learning things like digital design and video editing that allows them to develop soft skills like critical thinking, teamwork, collaboration and presentation,” Keote says. “They are not just coding for the sake of coding but are developing in ways that will be useful in the future.”

Kids learn better if they can relate what they are learning to a real-world project. The Belt Program is designed similar to karate: Kids start at their current level then progress up belts as skills are attained. The Paths Program allows kids to do a deeper dive into a STEM topic of their choice, like Roblox, Minecraft, Java and Python. CONTINUED >

Kalash Keote

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B R I D G E WAT E R

iCode also partners with public and private schools and private organizations to provide STEAM curriculum, equipment and instructors. And recently, they started a robotics program. “There is a lot of interest in robotics, but it’s mainly available at the high school level,” Keote says. “We wanted to create a program in which students can start earlier and design robots based on the challenges provided by the REC Foundation, which can make them more competitive.” The goal is to build young minds by giving kids a wide exposure to a variety of skills in emerging areas like AI and ChatGPT. “Traditional education is built on kids memorizing facts, but they learn better if they can relate what they are learning to a real-world project or if they are collaborating with others and sharing ideas,” he says. “All our curriculum introduces concepts and reinforces these concepts with a hands-on lab, which allows kids to learn visually and practically—like how technology works in real life.” This philosophy is pulled through all programs and summer camps, which focus on different topics, including arts and design, coding, gaming and robotics. “We are constantly looking at the industry landscape to see what is changing and what is the newest technology. We revise our curriculum based on what we see,” he says. View the programs at iCodeSchool.com/Bridgewater.

K I D S COR N E R | EDUCATION

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B R I D G E WAT E R

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From Wall Street to Well-Being STEVE RICCIARDI’S REMARKABLE PATH TO RENEWAL

Steve Ricciardi (left) hiking the Camino de Santiago in Spain.

Steve Ricciardi has followed a challenging path, one that led him from the high-stress world of Wall Street to a newfound lease on life, thanks to Reactivation Massage in Bridgewater. Patricia Vreeland, his licensed massage therapist, became his unwavering pillar of support, nurturing his physical and mental well-being every step of the way.

Steve Ricciardi Ricciardi’s journey began upon retiring from Wall Street, plagued by high blood pressure and weight issues. While he initially found success in shedding excess weight and improving his fitness, the hurdles of aging soon overshadowed his progress. In 2017, he underwent a hip replacement, but a full recovery eluded him. His troubles started specifically after opening a guitar shop in Morristown, leading to unhealthy eating habits and additional weight gain. His body grappled with muscle issues, and his knee and hip joints were deteriorating. “I pleaded with an orthopedic surgeon to grant me a knee replacement,” Ricciardi explains, “but he advised me to wait, as I still had some ways to go in my journey. I’d already had both knees scoped, my hip replaced and various issues with my arms. It felt like my body was falling apart.” This spring, Ricciardi reconnected with Vreeland after losing touch during the pandemic. Vreeland would prove instrumental in Ricciardi’s rehabilitation, providing the physical support necessary to restore his health and mobility. She helped him navigate his physical problems, acting as a triage partner throughout the process. A pivotal moment came when Ricciardi decided to undertake 85 miles of the challenging Camino de Santiago pilgrimage in Spain. Despite concerns from his family and friends, Ricciardi was determined to embrace this challenge with unwavering support from professionals like his orthopedic trainer and, most significantly, Vreeland.

ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JILLIAN SPENCER

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | H E ALT H + WE LLN E SS

Steve Ricciardi hiking the Camino de Santiago in Spain.

“He understood that he needed to put in the effort and sought assistance from the right people who could help him achieve his goals,” Vreeland says. “It was a daunting task, walking all those miles in another country, but he faced his fears head on.” With Vreeland’s guidance, Ricciardi diligently prepared for the pilgrimage. In the end, he not only completed the grueling 85-mile journey but exceeded expectations, conquering 115 miles in just nine days. This achievement marked a profound transformation in both his physical and mental well-being. Ricciardi has showcased that age is no barrier to achieving one’s goals. He passionately encourages individuals contemplating life changes to step out of their comfort zones, embrace new experiences and prioritize their health. “The fears of not making it or slowing down the people you’re hiking with are entirely legitimate. It’s a tremendous accomplishment for him to overcome those fears, especially at the age of 59,” Vreeland says. “He knew how to reach out to the right people, and he understands that continuous effort is vital for achieving his goals.” Vreeland emphasizes that Ricciardi’s story exemplifies the power of setting objectives, seeking professional guidance and cultivating a robust support system. She recognizes that Ricciardi’s journey continues, and he regularly visits her for ongoing support. With her assistance, he is prepared to face new challenges and sustain his enhanced well-being. “It won’t be easy from here on out,” Ricciardi says. “I’m Italian, and I want to enjoy pizza and pasta. Occasionally, I can indulge, but we must maintain discipline.”

A pivotal moment came when Ricciardi decided to undertake 85 miles of the challenging Camino de Santiago pilgrimage in Spain. CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B R I D G E WAT E R

Ricciardi has showcased that age is no barrier to achieving one’s goals. He passionately encourages individuals contemplating life changes to step out of their comfort zones, embrace new experiences and prioritize their health.

Patricia Vreeland with Rebecca Place, licensed medical massage therapist, and owner Holly Lange

Ricciardi’s narrative is a testament to resilience, transformation and the pivotal role that professionals like Vreeland at Reactivation Massage play in helping individuals surmount physical obstacles and achieve their dreams. Vreeland, in turn, is proud of their collaborative efforts in swiftly getting Ricciardi back on his feet and moving toward a brighter, healthier future. Ricciardi’s inspiring journey is a testament to the power of determination and the unwavering support of those who believe in the potential of every individual, regardless of age. His story serves as a beacon of hope for anyone seeking to overcome physical challenges and embrace a healthier, more fulfilling life. View the services at ReactivationMassage.com.

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | H E ALT H + WE LLN E SS

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SRB PHILANTHROPY CORP IS RAISING AWARENESS—AND FUNDS— TO HELP BOLSTER THE MENTAL HEALTH WORKFORCE

Improving Deborah Schader and Dr. Steven Budoff

Mental Health ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DONNA GIOIA VOLPE

G IV IN G BAC K | WEL L NESS

Today, awareness of mental health is at an all-time high. Stigma has faded as celebrities like Lady Gaga and Kristin Bell have opened up about mental health struggles, prompting people to take action when they need help. However, a shortage of professionals in the field is at an all-time high, their forces reduced by retirement, attrition and fewer people entering schools to study mental health. To help bolster the workforce, Dr. Steven Budoff of Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Solutions in Raritan founded the nonprofit SRB Philanthropy Corp to provide educational programs on current mental health and mental wellness issues and award scholarships for those in or entering the mental health field. The scholarships are divided into two categories: open to anyone going into a mental health field, such as psychiatry, psychology or social work, and people who themselves have had mental health challenges in their lives and are also pursuing a career in the field of mental health. “Insurance has gotten extremely expensive and working with insurance companies has gotten more complicated. Many professionals are leaving the field due to the complexities. Meanwhile, the need for mental health services has grown exponentially and the graduating rate of people going into the field is not keeping up,” says Deborah Schader, the director of business development for Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Solutions and director of the nonprofit. “If somebody needs to see a psychiatrist, they don’t have the luxury of waiting three months when it’s a serious issue.”

CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B R I D G E WAT E R

In addition to raising money for the scholarships, the nonprofit holds educational events and collaborates with elected officials who emphasize mental health care to improve the certification process. They also are talking to community groups like Rotary Clubs and collaborating with other nonprofits. Events at local establishments, like Dulce Bakery & Cafe in Somerville, are planned, including networking meetings for mental health professionals, panel and speaker sessions, and meet-and-greets with political candidates and elected officials who include mental health in their platforms. The response has been tremendous. A recent psychiatric symposium designed to raise awareness attracted about 100 people. “The need for mental health services is so high,” Schader says. “This nonprofit, driven by our principals who are psychiatrists, can really make a difference.” Learn about upcoming events and donate to the scholarship fund at SRBPhilantropyCorp.org.

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ARTICLE BY BRUCE MORAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY RUTGERS ATHLETICS

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | S P ORTS + RE CRE AT ION

BRIDGEWATER’S CASEY MURPHY SHOWS HOW TO SET—AND DEFEND—GOALS

Casey Murphy’s love of soccer was kickstarted as a kid growing up in Bridgewater. “Soccer was always so much fun,” she recalls. “I loved going to practice and working hard.” That passion fueled a drive that has elevated Murphy to international recognition. “I remember always wanting to be the best, and once I was in high school and college, that’s when I really started to believe I could play in a World Cup one day,” she says. Murphy’s ambitious dreams became a reality as a backup goalie on the world-renowned United States Women’s National Team (USWNT), which competed in this year’s World Cup. Her parents, Jill and Mike, are her biggest champions. “My parents have always supported my big, bold dreams,” Murphy says. “They instilled in me a work ethic to never be complacent.”

CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B R I D G E WAT E R

Also in her corner is her younger brother, Kyle, a special education teacher and the head varsity wrestling coach and freshman football coach at Bridgewater-Raritan High School. “I love the relationship we have,” Murphy says about her brother. “He always has my back and his belief in me pushes me forward— especially after a mistake or loss.” A four-year letterwinner for BridgewaterRaritan, Murphy (Class of 2014) earned AllState when she guided the team that won the school’s first—and only—Group 4 state championship in 2013. During her All-State senior year, Murphy recorded 16 shutouts, including delivering at a crucial time when she posted five shutouts in six state tournament games. At Rutgers, Murphy was named Big 10 Goalkeeper of the Year twice, earned AllAmerican honors twice and was a Missouri Athletic Club Hermann Trophy semifinalist. Her 45 career shutouts set a program record at Rutgers. A scholar All-American and Academic All-Big Ten selection, Murphy received the elite Big Ten Medal of Honor in 2018. Murphy was lured to the professional ranks by Montpellier, a French women's football club, after three years manning the goal at Rutgers. She climbed the ladder playing on numerous youth national teams until she reached the top of her soccer profession when she was named to the United States Women’s National Team in 2021. During her career tending goal for the USWNT, she has posted 10 shutouts in 14 appearances. Since 2021, Murphy has been playing professionally with the North Carolina Courage in the National Women’s Soccer League. Wherever Murphy goes, one thing is certain: all of Bridgewater will be rooting for her.

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JOE’S MEAT MARKET Happy New Year from Joe’s Meat Market! We are a unique food market featuring imported groceries and provisions. We offer a wide variety of meats, cheeses, breads, salads, and sweets. 28 Main Street South Bound Brook, New Jersey (732) 356-4557 | www.joes-meatmarket.com JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B R I D G E WAT E R

Core Power TRAIN YOUR BODY AND MIND WITH A LOW-IMPACT WORKOUT—PILATES

Viviana Velez Vaga and Karen Spidare

ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY DONNA GIOIA VOLPE

G E T ACT IV E | FI TNES S

When Viviana Velez Vaga was diagnosed with prediabeties in 2022, she was motivated to change her lifestyle. The Somerville resident began walking, altered her diet and worked out at home. After six months, she decided to add something new and joined Club Pilates Bridgewater. “I wanted something that was low impact because I tend to be clumsy and can get hurt easily. I fell in love with the concept of Pilates and the sense of community and support,” she says. To date, Vaga has taken close to 200 classes. “If you’re going to do something consistently, it has to give you joy and be something you are passionate about. For me, that is Pilates. When I look at pictures from when I first joined compared to now, sometimes I do not believe that was me.”

Karen Spidare

Pilates is a form of strength training, which focuses more on improving muscle tone than building muscles, with movements that stabilize and strengthen your core. It’s a moderate activity that works for all ages and abilities. “It’s demanding, but it’s not the kind of workout that always works up a sweat. It’s all about concentration and breathing, but you’ll definitely feel it in your muscles during each exercise. The moves may look simple but they take a lot of precision and control with a strong emphasis on technique,” says Karen Spidare, who co-owns Club Pilates, Bridgewater, with her husband, Todd. Club Pilates puts a contemporary twist on the methods founded by Joseph Pilates a century ago, with classes focused on a head-to-toe workout to move the spine in every direction, which is important as you age to keep joints fluid and working optimally. “During the day, we sit and are stuck in the same hunched-over posture without moving parts of our body,” she says. “Pilates classes target those areas, like the back of the legs, and work to correct your posture.” Spidare fell in love with Pilates as a teenager and works to make classes affordable and accessible so others have the opportunity to experience the feelings she enjoys. “I loved mat Pilates classes because they made me feel strong. I liked that the exercise focuses on slower moves, not super-fast cardio, but I could feel myself getting stronger,” she says. One of the things that she loves most about her work is demystifying Pilates. She particularly enjoys teaching the introduction classes. “People tend to be nervous, but I tell them that it is accessible to beginners and people of all ages—and if they are not comfortable in a group, they can do private training,” she says. “Since Pilates is gentle on the joints, we get a lot of people who have had injuries or are older. My dad is 77 and my aunt is 83 and they regularly take classes. As we age, it’s important to work on your balance and core strength to keep mobile.” She recommends taking three Pilates classes a week as part of your weekly movement practice. “We have a variety of classes that can help you reach your goals. Some classes focus specifically on strength training, which is important to keep bones strong as we age—especially for women,” she says. “Many of our class types at the studio incorporate free weights into your routine, upping the weight and spring resistance as you grow stronger.” Breathwork and concentration are important parts of the practice. Classes focus on slow, deep breathing in harmony with the movements. “Getting all that oxygen in the body gives people a ‘Pilates high,’” she says. “And Pilates is a mental exercise. It forces you to be present and focused on what you are doing with your body. You cannot be thinking of your to-do list.” CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B R I D G E WAT E R

Bridge

Want to sample Pilates at home? Spidare offers two easy exercises to get your spine moving in all directions: BRIDGE

This pose works the back of your legs and stretches the front of the hips, both of which can become weak and tight if you sit a lot. Lie flat on a mat with your knees bent and feet flat. Press your arms down onto the floor. Keep your spine straight while you lift your hips up to the ceiling so that the front of your body is like a sliding board from your knees, hips and shoulders. Keep your shoulder blades down on the mat. Imagine you’re trying to reach your knees away from your shoulders. Repeat 10 times.

Cat/Cow

CAT/COW

This pose is great for spinal mobility and posture. From quadraped position on your hands and knees, round your spine like a cat stretching. Think about your belly button pulling up to the ceiling and your “tail” tucking between your legs. In this position, your spine is in flexion. With control, roll through your spine in the other direction to have a slight arch in your low back and lift your heart and head forward into “cow” pose. This is called a back extension and is great for your spine and posture. Roll through these postures four to six times while breathing deeply. Learn more about Pilates at ClubPilates.com/ Location/Bridgewater.

G E T ACT IV E | FI TNES S

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JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B R I D G E WAT E R

Spice Up Winter ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY STACY LING

Turkey Chili Packs a Power Punch of Nutrients Packed with protein, fiber and an array of colorful vegetables, turkey chili is a filling and nutritious dish.

ingredients: • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil • 1 lb ground turkey • 1 diced green chili pepper • 1 bag frozen corn • 2 15 oz canned diced tomatoes • 2 15 oz canned black beans • 1 tbsp cumin • 1 tbsp chili powder • Salt • Pepper • Optional garnishes: cilantro, red onion, mango salsa, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, scallions, jalapeños, sliced avocado, corn chips

directions: Step 1. Heat extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.

Step 2. Add ground turkey and brown (5–7 minutes).

Step 3. Add diced green chilies, diced tomatoes, corn, beans and spices. Mix well and cook on medium for 10 minutes.

Step 4. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 5. Top with garnishes of your liking. Bernardsville lifestyle blogger Stacy Ling is the author of the new book The Bricks ’n Blooms Guide to a Beautiful and Easy-Care Flower Garden. Follow Ling on your favorite social media channel @bricksnblooms.

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B R I D G E WAT E R

SMOOTHIE BOWLS

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES Start your day with a nutritious and vitamin-packed breakfast. Smoothie bowls are a great way to add a variety of fruits and vegetables. Top with chia or flax seeds for an extra omega-3 boost, nuts or seeds for added protein, or sliced fruit for additional vitamins and fiber. Including a hint of turmeric or ginger can aid in digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties. Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables can aid in cellular repair and gut health, and smoothie bowls are a delicious way to incorporate more into your day. Try some of these simple recipes, or create your own combinations to give your health a boost.

H OW TO | FO O D + BEVERAGE

INGREDIENTS: • 1 orange or 2 clementines • ½ cup carrots • 1 cup frozen mangos • 1 cup frozen peaches • ½ banana • ½ cup vanilla yogurt • ½ teaspoon turmeric, ground • small pinch of pepper Blend all ingredients until smooth. Top with desired toppings.

TOPPING SUGGESTIONS: • granola • sliced almonds • berries • ground flax seeds

rro

g e B o wl

CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B R I D G E WAT E R

Pine

H OW TO | FO O D + BEVERAGE

na n a B owl

INGREDIENTS: • 2 cups frozen pineapple • 1 frozen banana • 1 handful spinach (optional) • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice • 1 tablespoon manuka honey (or other natural sweetener) • ¼ inch fresh ginger • ½ cup coconut water Add all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a bowl and top with desired toppings. TOPPING SUGGESTIONS: • fresh fruit • seeds • pomegranate seeds

What Passions Could Your Child Uncover at Far Hills Country Day School? Find out by scheduling a tour today. Now accepting Grades 2 through 6 applications for the 2024–25 school year.

Far Hills Country Day School is a Preschool through Grade 8 private school. 697 US-202 | Far Hills, NJ 07931 | FHCDS.org |908-766-0622

We are proud to announce the launch of our New Menu! Check it out on our website and book your reservation!

www.casalunamexican.com | 908-526-3300 | 30 S Doughty Ave, Somerville, NJ

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B R I D G E WAT E R

JANUARY 2024

events A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LO C A L E V E N T S

EVERY THUR SDAY

Trivia Game Night TGI Fridays, 395 U.S. 202-206, Bridgewater | 8:00 PM Grab your favorite friends and test your knowledge. TGI Fridays in Bridgewater hosts Trivia Game Night every Thursday. TGIFridays.com JANUARY 5TH - 7TH

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

EVE N TS

Come From Away State Theatre New Jersey, 15 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick This New York Times Critics’ Pick takes you into the heart of the remarkable true story of 7,000 stranded passengers and the small town in Newfoundland that welcomed them. stnj.org JANUARY 6TH

Family Night Ted Blum 4-H Center, 310 Milltown Rd., Bridgewater | 5:00 PM The Somerset County 4-H Association invites all Somerset County 4-H families to join them for a free night of dinner, games and prizes. Registration is required. 4HIsTops.org

JA N UA RY 7 T H

Shimon and Sara Birnbaum JCC Open House Shimon and Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community Center, 775 Talamini Rd., Bridgewater | 10:00 AM Learn about all the JCC has to offer, including fitness, aquatics, sports and recreation, cultural arts, special needs activities, plus save on new memberships and New Camp Ruach registrations. ssbjcc.org, SPollak@ssbjcc.org JA N UA RY 9 T H

Bridgewater Women’s Club Monthly Meeting PeopleCare Center, 120 Finderne Ave., Bridgewater | 9:30 AM Somerset County Park Commission Environmental Education Naturalist Rich Hoffman shows the secrets inside a maple tree. BridgewaterWomensClub.org JA N UA RY 1 9 T H - 2 8TH

Ride The Cyclone – The Musical Villagers Theatre, 475 DeMott Lane, Somerset This is the second installment in Richmond’s “Uranium Teen Scream Trilogy,” a collection of three theatrical works that take place in the exaggerated Uranium City. VillagersTheatre.com

CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B R I D G E WAT E R

PAVING & CLASS MASONRY

events

CONTINUED

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Somerset Valley Players, 689 Amwell Rd., Hillsborough This final installment of Paul Simon’s autobiographical trilogy brings closure to the Jerome family story as they go through big life changes when Eugene and his brother, Stan, are hired as comedy writers for CBS. SVPTheatre.org JANUARY 20 TH

Natural Medicine & Rehabilitation Celebrates 25 Years 399 Campus Dr., Somerset | 11:00 AM Join Natural Medicine & Rehabilitation as it celebrates its 25th anniversary. Begin your new year by gaining insight on kickstarting 2024 with a focus on your health and wellness, exploring NMR’s variety of services and savoring refreshments. nmrnj.com JANUARY 29 TH

Chess Challenge Somerset County Library, 1 Vogt Dr., Bridgewater | 5:30 PM

Edgy, Artistic & Photojournalistic

Participants should have a basic knowledge of chess. They will be paired with a player close in age or ability. sclsnj.org

Want to be featured? CAPTURING WEDDINGS & ENGAGEMENT SESSIONS IN A PHOTOJOURNALISTIC AND CANDID ST YLE, AS WELL AS, CREATIVE FAMILY SESSIONS.

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EVE N TS

G E T I N T O U C H AT CIT YLIFEST YLE .COM/ B R I D G E W AT E R

New Year. New You!

Schedule your appointment today.

Cryoskin facials are a refreshing way to start the new year, promoting skin rejuvenation through cold therapy. Ensuring a glowing 2024!

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JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B R I D G E WAT E R

realty report A S A M P L E O F R E C E N T LY S O L D P R O P E R T I E S I N B R I D G E W AT E R . ORIGINAL PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/ORIG

DOM

BDRMS

B AT H S

2 Caruso Court

NEIGHBORHOOD

$1,549,000

$1,601,000

103%

6.1

16 Gateshead Drive

$1,050,000

$1,205,000

115%

4.1

280 White Oak Ridge Road

$899,900

$950,000

106%

2.2

20 Murphy Drive

$850,000

$900,000

106%

2.1

24 Huntley Way

$849,000

$860,000

101%

2.1

36 Linberger Drive

$850,000

100%

2.1

1001 Vosseller Avenue

$750,000

$800,000

107%

28 Claire Drive

$674,900

$690,000

102%

230 Jackson Street

$605,000

$690,000

114%

2.1

522 Stangle Road

$599,522

$675,000

113%

2.1

454 Stony Brook Drive

$630,000

$650,000

103%

2.1

65 Ivy Lane

$648,900

$645,000

99%

2.1

458 Milcrip Road

$725,000

$635,000

88%

2.1

2102 Vroom Drive

$645,000

$635,000

98%

2.1

198 Love Road

$600,000

$625,000

104%

2.1

627 Desota Drive

$599,900

$610,000

102%

2.1

930 William Street

$545,000

$600,000

110%

1.1

126 Bonney Court

$515,000

$553,000

107%

2.2

2232 Brookside Drive

$500,000

$550,000

110%

2.1

775 Papen Road

$575,000

$520,000

90%

712 Foothill Road

$475,000

$520,000

109%

2.1

5 Bond Street

$425,000

$502,000

118%

2.1

275 Shepherd Avenue

$525,000

$485,000

92%

382 Union Avenue

$389,900

100%

2711 Packer Court

$289,000

$325,000

112%

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 10/25/23 - 11/25/23. DOM is Days on Market.

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/B R I D G E WAT E R

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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