Chatham & Short Hills, NJ December 2023

Joyful December Delights!

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December 2023 PUBLISHER S

Ana Meyer | ana.meyer@citylifestyle.com John Meyer | john.meyer@citylifestyle.com MANAGING EDITOR

Ana Meyer | ana.meyer@citylifestyle.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Joyful December Delights!

Happy Holidays!

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes a surge of that magical spirit that we often seek to recreate from our youthful memories. Whether it's the scents, sounds, lights, holiday festivities, or a combination of all, we tend to infuse our own family traditions with echoes of our own childhood experiences.

In the spirit of holiday traditions, you'll discover an engaging feature in this issue. Our local business owners and community members graciously share their favorite holiday traditions, alongside delightful drink recipes for you to recreate in the comfort of your own home. We hope that these cherished traditions will kindle the same inspiration in your hearts!

In our household, Christmas morning carries a special tradition. We prepare reindeer-shaped pancakes for the kids, drenched in organic maple syrup, all while donning matching holiday pajamas. Even our two canine companions, Lucky and Max, get in on the festive attire. Following this heartwarming breakfast, we convene in our family room, adorned with a Christmas tree that the children helped select and decorate. It's here that we exchange our thoughtful Christmas presents. As our children grow, we discover that Christmas holds an even deeper significance, and it becomes a cherished opportunity to create lasting, love-filled holiday memories as a family. In the words of one of our favorite family movie classics, The Grinch," think about that "maybe Christmas doesn't come in a box"; it's so much more!

We'd love to hear about your favorite holiday traditions and the unique customs you are building with your loved ones.

Wishing you a joyful and heartwarming Holiday Season and a prosperous New Year!

ANA AND JOHN MEYER, PUBLISHERS @ C H AT H A M S H O R T H I L L S

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E .C O M /C H AT H A M A N D S H O R T H I L L S |

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Kaitlyn Keane | Kaitlyn.Keane@citylifestyle.com SOCIAL MEDIA COOR DINATOR

Ben Meyer CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Sue Baldani, Ben Meyer CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Chris Jorda Photography, Carol Fisher Photography

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 Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise Proverbs 3:5-6 Chatham & Short Hills City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Chatham & Short Hills 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 Chatham & Short Hills City Lifestyle™ is gathered from

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

DECEMBER 2023

inside the issue The Holidays & Giving Issue

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F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

14 Cherished Traditions and Festive Sips

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Lifestyle Letter

Holiday Magic Unveiled: A Peek into Local Traditions and Tantalizing Holiday Sips

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City Scene

from Our Friends.

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Business Monthly

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Back Stage ENT ERTA I NMENT

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Must See ENT ERTA I NMENT

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Inspired By LO CA L S ERV I C ES

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Culinary Creations FO O D + B E V E R AG E

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Giving Back LI FE + C U LT U R E

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Events

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Chef ’s Selection FO O D + B EV E R AG E

22 Magical Family Memories

A wonderful holiday tradition for people of every age

32 Gingerbread Man Holiday Cocktail Spice Up the Holidays with a Gingerbread Man Martini

42 Frosty's Gourmet Hot Chocolate Delight!

Family Friendly and Fun Gourmet Hot Chocolate Delight

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Provided 6

SAREH NOURI F LE AWG SYH N O IRPK

LIVINGSTON TOWN CENTER 2115 TOWN CENTER WAY LIVINGSTON, NEW JERSEY 973.369.7003

DECEMBER 2023

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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CAROL FISHER PHOTOGRAPHY

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1: JETS Meet and Greet winners of Chatham's Legends Gallery silent auction. 2: JETS fans at Chatham's Legends Gallery JETS athletes in person meet and greet event. 3: JETS Garret Wilson, with fans Matt and Conrad at Chatham's Legends Gallery. 4: Taste of Chatham Event sponsored by the Chatham Chamber of Commerce at the Madison Hotel. 5: Chatham's Toastique at the Taste of Chatham event, Madison Hotel. 6-7: Artist Michael Godard with collectors at Short Hills Wentworth Gallery meet the artist event.

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Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @chathamshorthills

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8: El Ranchero Mexican Grill, Taste of Chatham Event sponsored by the Chatham Chamber of Commerce 9: Sonny's Indian Kitchen at Taste of Chatham Event sponsored by the Chatham Chamber of Commerce 10: Blossom Asian Bistro at Taste of Chatham Event sponsored by the Chatham Chamber of Commerce 11: Pascarella Brothers Delicatessen at Taste of Chatham Event sponsored by the Chatham Chamber of Commerce 12: JETS Breece Hall at Chatham's Legends Gallery JETS athletes in person meet and greet event. 13: JETS fans at Chatham's Legends Gallery JETS athletes in person meet and greet event. 14: Artist Michael Godard with collectors at Short Hills Wentworth Gallery meet the artist event.

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DECEMBER 2023

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Welcome Wildly Floral to Chatham + Short Hills Lifestyle !

Wildly Floral Co. is owned and operated by Josi Stone and is a flower + gift shop in South Orange creating nature-inspired floral designs for events of all sizes and for everyday occasions. We also design florals for photo shoots, contributing to the visual story of a brand or publication.

We use sustainable practices in our designs and source as many locally grown flowers. Have a celebration coming up? www.wildlyfloral.co

Scan to read more.

Explore Millburn & Millburn Short Hills Chamber of Commerce Event

BeeCleaner Floors, Upholstery Cleaning Services Offers Allergy Sensitive Products

Join us in Millburn downtown on Main Street, on December 2nd and 3rd for a joint Explore Millburn Short Hills and Millburn Short Hills Chamber of Commerce holiday event.

Enjoy holiday lights, cozy igloos, carolers, firepits, s’mores to kick off the holiday season. An additional event at the Short Hills train station on December 9th and 10th. To learn more, visit https://exploremillburnshorthills.org/ and https:// www.millburnshorthillschamber.org/

Your home or work facility is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, which is why you need to take care of it. BeeCleaner offers allergy sensitive cleaning products for both residential and commercial cleaning.

Instead of relying on vacuum cleaning, their professional equipment will deep clean your carpets for a deeper clean. Clean your floors with allergy sensitive products this holiday season. https://bee-cleaner.com/

Scan to read more.

Want to be featured?

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

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Cherished Traditions and Festive Sips Holiday Magic Unveiled: A Peek into Local Traditions and Tantalizing Holiday Sips from Our Friends.

ARTICLE BY ANA M E YE R | PHOTOG R APHY BY CH RIS JORDA PHOTOG R APHY

John and Ana Meyer, City Lifestyle

Welcome to the heartwarming tapestry of the holiday season! As Publishers and passionate aficionados of all things local, we at Chatham + Short Hills Lifestyle and Morris Lifestyle magazine are thrilled to share a truly special treat with you. In “Cherished Traditions and Festive Sips,” we’ve embarked on a delightful journey through our community, where local business owners have opened their hearts to reveal their most cherished holiday traditions. But wait, there’s more! Our advertising partners, who have become dear friends, are adding an extra dash of warmth to the holiday spirit by sharing their favorite holiday drinks and the secret recipes behind them. Let’s toast to the magic of the season with stories that will warm your heart and recipes that will tickle your taste buds! Thank you, Short Hills Hilton, for hosting us for the photo session and for sharing your drink recipes!

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John Bruton Hilton Short Hills, https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/ewrshhh-hilton-short-hills/ “My favorite tradition is the hotel’s annual holiday cupcake decorating event. Every year the hotel partners with a local charity and we invite local families to the hotel and we have a cupcake decorating party in our grand ballroom complete with egg nog, hot chocolate and yes, Santa too! It’s really a great time and it’s so wonderful to see the families enjoying themselves with the hotel staff during the holidays.”

Bourbon S’mores Old-Fashioned Cocktail: 2 oz Knob Creek Graham Cracker infused bourbon, .25 oz Creme de Caco, .25 oz Toasted Marshmallow Syrup, 2 dashes Angostura Bitters. Add ingredients to mixing glass. Top with ice and stir. Strain into rocks glass over a large bar ice cube. Serve with a toasted marshmallow.

Stacey Futterman Tauriello 5 POINT Physical Therapy and Wellness, https://5pointpt.com/ “My favorite holiday tradition is decorating for the holidays.

My family is mixed blend of traditions from both Jewish and Greek Orthodox faith. So, our menorah and Christmas tree are a beautiful part of our decorations. I am blessed to have had a grandmother that left me her original menorah and a mother-inlaw that gifted me all her handmade Christmas tree ornaments.

Every year we get a fresh tree and decorate it. The smell of the tree always makes me so happy for the holiday season. Add in baking holiday cookies to our ritual always puts a smile on my face and now my 5-year-old daughter as well.”

Peppermint patty hot chocolate with alcohol: Hot chocolate (homemade is best), Creme de Cacao, Peppermint schnapps.

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Nick Shchurko and Nils Ponemeckis Bee Cleaner, Flooring & Upholstery cleaning, https://bee-cleaner.com/ “I absolutely love spending the holidays with my loved ones, especially when we have a big feast planned! It’s such a special time to catch up and be thankful for everything we have in our lives. And after we’ve eaten our fill, we get to exchange presents and play games all night long. I just adore this tradition because it brings us all even closer together each year.” Nick Irish Coffee: 1 1/3 oz (2 parts) Irish whiskey, 1 oz (1½ parts) Fresh cream, 1 tsp. Brown sugar, 2 2/3 oz (4 parts) Freshly brewed hot coffee. Whipped cream and shaved chocolate (optional)

Angelique van der Made Red Oyster USA, https://red-oyster.com/ “Holiday tradition: to have a great evening long dinner with a group of our best friends. Everyone makes a special course including the pairing wine (we always challenge ourselves to be more creative and more special than the year before). Off course, we will start the evening with great Osetra caviar on fresh PEI oysters and a Gin Mare tonic.”

Gin tonic: With Gin Mare gin and lemon peel. This gin pairs very well with a fresh oyster!

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David Leigh, ESQ. The Leigh Law Firm, https://www.leighinjurylaw.com/ “My wife, Colleen, and her family own a Christmas tree farm in South Jersey. For years, they would sell the trees out of their backyard in South Orange. While they no longer sell the trees, “the farm” still holds a very special place in our family. Each year we go down and cut our own Christmas tree and plant several new ones. It’s one of my favorite holiday traditions. “

Mexican Hot Chocolate: 2 oz Don Julio Anejo, ½ teaspoon chili powder, 3 tbsps. cocoa powder, 8 oz Milk, ½ teaspoon cinnamon.

Combine steamed milk, cocoa powder, cinnamon & stir. In a mug add tequila (2oz). Top with vanilla whipped cream & add a dash of cinnamon.

Michael Mitchell Homewatch CareGivers, https://www.homewatchcaregivers.com/ “Decorating my house! We are the Griswolds! We celebrate Christmas and Hanukkah. We won the best house in West Orange, two years in a row, we are known as the Chrismukkah House! (See attached). The inside and outside are filled with decorations. It brings me such joy to drive home and see my house all lit up!”

Christmas Martini: 2 oz Tito’s Vodka, ½ oz cranberry juice, ½ oz lemon juice, ½ oz simple syrup. Combine ingredients in a cocktail shaker tin with ice and shake until ice crystals form on the tin.

Strain into a martini glass with a lemon twist

CONTINUED >

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Mike Giacopelli Mi Jack Home Builders, https://www.mijackhomebuilders.com/ “For the tradition I would say going to the tree farm and picking out our own tree and of course going home, putting on Christmas music and decorating the tree.”

Dark chocolate hot chocolate: Warm milk and heavy cream in a saucepan until nearly simmering. Add dark chocolate, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth.

Julia Cheng Soothing Zen Day Spa, https://www.soothingzen.com/ “My favorite holiday tradition is having the Christmas tree.

Living in the city, we always had a small, sad Charlie Brown tree or sometimes even none at all due to space and more importantly, time limitations. Now that kids are in the picture, we make sure to set aside the time and set up a grand tree every year. It’s a great reminder to stop, catch a breath, and appreciate the kids’ joy.”

Lemon Drop Martini: 2 oz Ketel One citron, 1 oz Cointreau, ½ of lemon juice. Shake ingredients in a cocktail tin with ice. Rim Martini glass with sugar and strain contents into glass with a lemon twist.

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Samir Patel Blue Code Networks, https://www.bluecodenetworks.com/ “My cherished holiday tradition involves a three-day family gathering, where we rotate homes each day to celebrate Christmas with our loved ones. I’m grateful to my parents for instilling enduring Christmas traditions during our childhood that my siblings and I fondly reflect upon. We continue to decorate our home right after Thanksgiving, trim the tree by the fireplace, and, of course, set out cookies for Santa after the kids are asleep—keeping the magic alive.”

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Magical Family Memories A wonderful holiday tradition for people of every age ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

The Nutcracker has become a beloved holiday tradition for many families over the years. The New Jersey Ballet Company (NJBC) is celebrating its 52nd performance at the Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) in Morristown. NJBC performs throughout the state from Bergen County down to Cape May, and it does a number of performances at the Mayo Performing Arts Center.

“It’s quite exciting that we’re the resident ballet company at MPAC,” says Maria Kowroski, artistic director of the New Jersey Ballet Company since 2021 and former principal dancer with the New York City

Ballet, where she had performed in the Nutcracker many times. “It’s a beautiful theater and everybody involved aims to make this holiday classic a performance to remember.”

The late Carolyn Clark, who founded NJBC, previously stated, “In 1971, George Tomal, Joseph Carow and I believed New Jersey Ballet, which was established in 1958, was well-positioned to present this holiday tradition to New Jerseyans. Hence the birth of New Jersey Ballet’s Nutcracker. Messrs. Tomal and Carow created the choreography, which we still perform today, and the great Edward Villella was CONTINUED >

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“It’s just a wonderful time of the year and a wonderful holiday production to make a yearly tradition.” says Maria

our first Cavalier! Today, we have been continuing their legacy at the beautiful Mayo Performing Arts Center” In this enchanting story, which is set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score performed live by the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra, young Clara is given a colorful nutcracker at a party, and after she goes to bed, a magic spell takes effect.

In the ensuing storyline, fantastical characters such as giant mice, childsize soldiers, a Sugar Plum Fairy, and of course, the Nutcracker, who turns into a handsome prince, cavort and dance on stage to the audience’s delight. It’s a tale that transcends time, and resonates with people of all ages, sexes and religions.

When it’s over, it also lets the audience translate what really happened in their own way.

“It’s up to everybody’s interpretation to decide if it’s a dream [that Clara has] or if it really happened,” says marketing director, Kotoe Kojima-Noa, who has been with NJBC since 2001.

Its heartwarming, uplifting storyline has something for everyone, young and old. “A lot of people, after seeing it for the first time, make attending The Nutcracker a yearly tradition,” says Maria. “I think it’s a wonderful way to introduce children to ballet and the arts. Our production has children in it, so I think it encourages them to want to be a part of it. ” One of their favorite parts, she says, is always the battle scene with the mice and the Nutcracker. Maria’s favorite part of the

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production is the snow scene, which she calls “magical.”

As a child, she actually played the role of Clara in the Nutcracker. “The music and the scene where everything starts to grow and come to life is really, really, emotional. The music sweeps you away and transports the audience. This is also one of my favorite parts and cherished memories as a young dancer.”

Theatergoers will come away with wonderful memories that they will cherish for years. It’s great entertainment, whether someone is a ballet aficionado or not, and being able to see it at The Mayo Performing Arts Center is a huge bonus.

It’s not only close to home, but very reasonably priced. There’s ample parking and a train station within walking distance for those who prefer to leave the car behind.

Plus, since it’s in Morristown, there are plenty of restaurants to visit for a wonderful meal before or after a show.

Whether experiencing the Nutcracker for the 52nd time or the first time, the magic never gets old. “Anybody who’s returning year after year will see some changes along the way that will keep them coming back for more,” says Maria. “It’s just a wonderful time of the year and a wonderful holiday production to make a yearly tradition.”

See it on your own, with your loved one, or with your entire family. It’ll be a performance you won’t forget, and you may even dream about the Nutcracker yourself. Or maybe it won’t be a dream at all!

For more information and to buy your tickets, go to MayoArts.org.

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Home For the Holidays MAKE A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE FOR A FURRY FRIEND ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS JORDA PHTOGRAPHY

This holiday season, instead of adding another electronic device or kitchen gadget to your home, bring home some love. The love of a pet, that is.

Animal rescues and shelters have so many beautiful, fun and loving dogs and cats available.

There are also rescues for specific breeds, so if you’ve always wanted a German Shepherd or a Maine Coon cat, no problem.

However, it’s also important to keep an open mind when looking for a specific type of pet. You may go into a shelter determined to get a doodle, but when you see that cocker spaniel looking at you with soulful, sweet eyes, you just might change your mind.

Ana Meyer, Publisher and VP Engagement and Impact of this magazine, found her perfect dog Lucky, a Havanese, at a pet adoption event at her local pet store. She had never even heard of the breed before. “There’s something about connecting with a future pet once you look into their eyes and engage with them,” she says. “Lucky was the best fit for our family of five. He is only 19 pounds and thinks he is a German Sheppard!

When one of us is sick, he sits next to us with his body against us, like he is protecting us, knowing

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Sue and Wes

Lucky Dog

“There’s something about connecting with a future pet once you look into their eyes and engage with them.” Ana Meyer

that a family member is not feeling well. We named him Lucky because he was the only pet adopted that day.”

I’ve been fortunate to have adopted many wonderful cats and dogs in my life, and have taken chances on those who may not have seemed so perfect at first. However, with kindness and patience, they turned out to be the best pets I could have ever wanted.

Grover, our now 7-year-old black cat that we adopted from the Somerset Regional Animal Shelter (SRAS), has a chronic sinus condition which results in a constant runny nose, but he’s the sweetest boy ever. He sleeps with me and loves when I cuddle him close.

When we first adopted our younger cat, Wes, from SRAS, boy was he a handful! He would seek out and destroy any plastic bags in the house as if they were his life-long enemies. But he too is now a wonderful addition to our household and one we couldn’t imagine life without.

If you aren’t sure whether a pet would be a good fit for your home and lifestyle, there is an option to foster. This will give you a chance to become familiar with pet ownership, and even if it doesn’t work out, the pet will have had a home for at least a little while and have a safe place to return.

“I think it’s very important when someone chooses a pet to do their research about the breed, talk to friends who are pet owners and understand the commitment and joy it is to have a furry family member at home,” says Ana. There are many great resources online, and at many local shelters. The staff usually knows the animals in their care and can match a dog or cat’s personality with the person or family looking to adopt.

There’s a saying about how adopting one animal may not change the world, but it will change that pet’s entire world. Give an animal a home for the holidays and you and your family will enjoy the love for years to come.

AKC.org PetFinder.com sthuberts.org njshelter.org SARARescue.com

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Gingerbread Man Holiday Cocktail ARTICLE BY BEN MEYER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Spice Up the Holidays with a Gingerbread Man Martini As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to infuse your celebrations with a touch of whimsy and warmth. Picture this: a crackling fire, the faint jingle of sleigh bells, and a Gingerbread Man Martini in hand. This delightful concoction blends the nostalgia of gingerbread cookies with the elegance of a martini for a festive libation that will have you and your guests dancing through the night.

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

Recipe: Gingerbread Man Martini ingredients • • • • • •

2 oz vanilla vodka 1 oz Kahlúa 1 oz coffee liqueur 1 oz half-and-half cream 1/2 oz gingerbread syrup Crushed gingerbread cookies (for rimming) • Whipped cream, ground cinnamon, and a mini gingerbread cookie (for garnish)

directions 1. Begin by rimming a martini glass with crushed gingerbread cookies. Simply moisten the rim with a bit of water, then gently press it into the cookie crumbs.

2. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the vanilla vodka, Kahlúa, coffee liqueur, half-and-half cream, and gingerbread syrup. Shake vigorously until well chilled.

3. Strain the mixture into your rimmed martini glass.

4. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.

5. Garnish with a mini gingerbread cookie, perched on the edge of the glass.

Sip slowly and savor the cozy, spiced flavors that make this Gingerbread Man Martini the perfect holiday companion. Cheers to a season filled with joy, laughter, and deliciously creative cocktails!

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CHATHAM & SHORT HILLS CITY LIFESTYLE™ Good news happening right in your neighborhood.

Inspiration for your best local life.

Exclusive giveaways.

STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

Hidden gem alert!

Local content by local creators.

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I F YO U A R E R E A D I N G T H I S . . .

S O I S YO U R B E S T C L I E N T.

2 OUT OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

ADVERTISE WITH CHATHAM & SHORT HILLS CITY LIFESTYLE™ L E A R N M O R E AT C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / C H AT H A M A N D S H O R T H I L L S 34

At Mijack Homebuilders, we strive for excellence.

We want you to LOVE your home.

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Over 1 million square feet of new construction including commercial, industrial, retail, and residential buildings developed.

High quality construction with an abundance of features at competitive prices. Best quality home on the market, both from the materials and mechanical systems you can see…and especially the ones you can’t!

Love your home with Mijack Homebuilders.

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The City Lifestyle

Giving Campaign

2023 36

G IV IN G BAC K | L IFE + CULTURE

“

This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

The annual City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is in its 4th year. Last holiday season we gave away over $300,000 to help 116 individuals and families in need, but we need your help to make it happen again this year.

With nominations flooding in from community members and leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you, we were able to reach people who might otherwise go unnoticed. Perhaps you know of a single parent struggling to provide for their family, an elderly person who has experienced loss, someone enduring a health issue, a co-worker suffering a sudden, unexpected tragedy or a neighbor with a financial hardship who has fallen between the cracks of getting assistance. Chances are you know someone with a specific need, even if no one else does.

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them during this holiday season.”

“We believe God has blessed our company with continued success, so we in turn want to be a blessing to others,” Matthew Perry, President of City Lifestyle adds.

City Lifestyle has also enacted an internal giving program whereby every employee in the company receives $100 to give away to someone in the community. “The idea is to encourage our employees to keep giving on their own,” Steven says. “Taking care of one another and blessing others is truly rewarding and it perpetuates a cycle of giving. It’s extremely important to me as a person and as a company to foster a culture of generosity.”

Scan Code to

Nominate Nominations accepted Nov. 27 – Dec. 10, 2023

Follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram for reminders!

To submit a nomination, follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link. All entries will be read, and because this is not a raffle, there is no need to nominate someone more than once. The amount given to each recipient will be based on need. All nominations and recipients will be kept confidential.

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DECEMBER 2023

LONG BEACH ISLAND

FIND YOUR HAPPY PLACE

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

DECEMBER 2ND

A Magical Cirque Christmas

MAYO A RTS , MO R R I STOW N , N J | 8 :0 0 P M Embrace the holiday spirit with A Magical Cirque Christmas, a variety show full of nostalgia, charm and awe-inspiring performances for all ages. Get ready to be dazzled, enchanted and filled with holiday cheer as you witness the incredible talents of world-class entertainers performing to your favorite holiday music! @ 3:00 PM & 8:00 PM. www.mayoarts.org DECEMBER 7TH

The Temptations and The Four Tops

Contact

ALISA MOLBERT C: (732) 718-0039 O: (609) 494-7272 ext: 1103 amolbert@zackshore.com www.longbeachislandlistings.com

MAYO A RTS I N MO R R I STOW N , NJ | 7 :30 P M Two legendary supergroups – together again! From “Baby, I Need Your Loving” to “My Girl,” enjoy an evening full of your favorite Motown memories from two classic 1960s hitmakers. 7:30 PM www.mayoarts.org DECEMBER 15TH - 27TH

New Jersey Ballet’s Nutcracker With New Jersey Symphony

MAYO A RTS I N MO R R I STOW N , NJ | 7 :30 P M New Jersey Ballet's beloved annual tradition enchants youngsters and grown-ups alike with splendid dancing, eye-popping special effects and a touch of holiday magic, set to Tchaikovsky's iconic score performed live by New Jersey Symphony. 7:30 PM & 1:00 PM www.mayoarts.org

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ARTICLE BY BEN MEYER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Frosty's Gourmet Hot Chocolate Delight!

FAMILY FRIENDLY AND FUN GOURMET HOT CHOCOLATE DELIGHT Embrace the holiday spirit with a comforting cup of “Frosty’s Gourmet Hot Chocolate Delight.” This luxurious hot cocoa recipe promises to not only warm your soul but also captivate your palate, all while making your season a little brighter with a charming marshmallow snowman topper.

ingredients: • 2 cups whole milk • 1/4 cup heavy cream • 4 oz high-qualit y dark chocolate, finely chopped • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder • 2 tbsp granulated sugar • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract Frosty the Marshmallow Snowman: • 3 large marshmallows • 1 candy corn (for the nose) • 6 pretzel sticks (for the legs) • A pinch of salt

directions: 1. Warm milk and heavy cream in a saucepan until nearly simmering.

2. Add dark chocolate, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.

Whisk until smooth.

For Frosty the Marshmallow Snowman: 1. Skewer three marshmallows to create the snowman’s body.

2. Adorn the top marshmallow with a candy corn nose.

3. Insert pretzel sticks as legs into the bottom marshmallow.

4. Gently place Frosty atop your hot chocolate.

Indulge in the rich, velvety hot chocolate and watch Frosty slowly melt, infusing your holiday season with sweetness and joy. Here’s to warmth, indulgence, and a touch of whimsy in every sip!

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C HE F ’S SE LE CT ION | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

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