Kids + Pets
ENTERTAINMENT
LEO, CITY LIFESTYLE’S TOP DOGGY MODEL, BRINGS WHIRLWIND ENERGY TO NORTH HUNTERDON.
LOCAL SERVICES
HOMEGROWN MOBILE VET BRINGS STRESS-FREE, COMPASSIONATE CARE TO YOUR DRIVEWAY.
The Joy of Kids + Pets
Oh, Hunterdon County, welcome to August—the Sunday of summer. I heard years ago that summer is like a weekend: June is Friday night, July is Saturday and August is Sunday. It has stayed with me ever since. The Halloween decorations that somehow appeared at Costco back in June may be trying to rush us along, but I am happily resisting. There are still dips in the pool, days down the shore, backyard barbecues, ice cream runs and sunny afternoons to enjoy.
This month’s Kids + Pets Issue feels right for this point in the season, when summer is full of motion and everyone in the house is ready for one more adventure. As a mom, I know these years have a funny way of feeling both long and impossibly fast, especially when measured in school years, sports schedules and growing kids.
Of course, a Kids + Pets Issue needs a cover star with personality to spare, and Leo delivered. On page 10, meet North Hunterdon’s Next Top Doggy Model, a fearless, a rescue pup whose boundless energy, floppy ears and heartwarming story make him impossible to forget.
Inside, we are also looking at the spaces that keep busy family life moving. Turn to page 22 for “A Place for Paws, Backpacks, and Everything In Between,” where Wendy Scott shares how thoughtful design can bring order to the everyday chaos of backpacks, muddy shoes, art supplies and pet gear.
And because caring for pets is such a personal part of family life, page 26 brings us to “Bringing Veterinary Care Closer Home,” the story of Dr. Amanda Struening and Homegrown Mobile Vet, a Stockton-based mobile practice making veterinary care calmer and more convenient for pets and their people.
This issue also reminds us that family can grow in deeply meaningful ways. On page 30, “Opening Their Home, Changing Lives” shares Candace Kerr’s story of foster care, faith, family and creating a sense of safety and belonging for children who need it most.
Here’s to the Sunday of summer, the people and pets we love, and these last long, sunny days.
August 2026
PUBLISHER
Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Tiffany Slowinski | tiffany.slowinski@citylifestyle.com
SALES DIRECTOR
Emily Labdon | emily.labdon@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Brooke Boyer | brooke.boyer@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Rose Balisi | rose.balisi@citylifestyle.com
Jessie Fernandez | jessie.fernandez@citylifestyle.com
INTERNS
Riley Burns | riley.burns@citylifestyle.com
Georgia Kissel
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Patti Zielinski, David Burke, Wendy Scott
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Daniel Dojlidko, John Jae Photo Video, That Werks Photography, David Burke Hospitality Management, Wendy Scott, JDW Designs, My Havana Photography, Michael J. Lago Creative Co.
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Proverbs
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1—3: Raritan Valley Habitat for Humanity’s Golf Fore Homes event brought golfers and supporters together to benefit affordable housing initiatives. 4—5: North Hunterdon High School students celebrate senior prom. 6: AR Workshop Clinton hosted World Cup-inspired kids’ crafting sessions, bringing families together through creativity and fun. 7: Haven Studios NJ partnered with Angelico Winery and Main Street Cheese for a ladies’ night supporting local businesses.
RARITAN VALLEY HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
NIKOL HLADKY
AR WORKSHOP
JOY BETHANY BRANDING
NIKOL HLADKY
RARITAN VALLEY HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
RARITAN VALLEY HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
Meet Leo: North Hunterdon’s Next Top Doggy Model
Leo’s fearless spirit, playful energy, and rescue story make him North Hunterdon’s standout cover dog.
ARTICLE BY BROOKE BOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MY HAVANA PHOTOGRAPHY
In May, dogs from across New Jersey gathered for City Lifestyle’s Next Top Doggy Model casting call, where canine contestants competed for the chance to represent their hometown on the cover.
A key partner in the event was K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel Hillsborough, known for luxury dog boarding and daycare, cage-free accommodations and a focus on safe, clean and enriching experiences for pets. K9 Resorts helped make the casting call a memorable day for families and their dogs.
Animal Alliance also joined the event, bringing its mission of helping animals in need to a day centered around community and canine connection. The nonprofit organization rescues, shelters and supports dogs and cats while helping pets find adoptive homes.
Tater Bear Treats added another special touch with small-batch dog treats made in New Jersey, giving the four-legged contestants one more reason to wag their tails.
From playful puppies to seasoned companions, the competition showcased dogs of every breed, size and personality imaginable. While every contestant brought something special to the event, one pup stood out among the entries thanks to his unforgettable charm and ability to make everyone around him smile.
For readers throughout North Hunterdon, that dog is Leo, a four-legged resident of Whitehouse Station.
At just 19 months old, Leo has already captured hearts across the region, earning the title of North Hunterdon’s Next Top Doggy Model. With his long floppy ears, soft coat, expressive eyes and famously squishy face, it is easy to see why he was chosen to represent the community.
A Bracco Italiano dog, Leo is affectionately known by a few colorful nicknames, including “the hurricane” and “the tornado.” According to his owner, Deanna Cuchiaro, those names are fitting for a dog who approaches life with endless energy and enthusiasm.
Cuchiaro describes Leo as adventurous, driven and spirited—three qualities that seem to guide everything he does.
“Leo is just always on,” she says. “From the moment he wakes up, he’s ready to go. He wants to be outside, he wants to explore, he wants to see what everyone else is doing. If there’s movement, he’s interested. If there’s water, he’s already halfway there. He doesn’t do anything halfway—he does everything with his whole heart.”
—Deanna Cuchiaro “
Those traits have helped make him a standout both at home and in the community.
“He doesn’t do anything halfway— he does everything with his whole heart.”
Whether he is racing toward the water or investigating a new trail, Leo approaches life with full enthusiasm.
When it comes to favorite treats, Leo has refined tastes. His top choice is a cheeseburger from Saint Rocco’s, a reward that never fails to get his attention. But food is only part of what motivates him. More than anything, Leo loves adventure.
Swimming tops Leo's list of favorite activities, and he never misses a chance to splash around. He also enjoys keeping watch over local birds and enthusiastically announcing their presence. When it is time for a special outing, a visit to Cowabunga Cones and Sweets in Hillsborough is always a welcome destination.
One of Leo’s most amusing habits is his love of transportation. Whether he is riding along on a golf cart or enjoying a peaceful trip in a canoe, he is happiest when he is along for the ride.
While his playful personality certainly helped him earn cover model status, Cuchiaro believes Leo’s appearance deserves some credit too.
Between his signature long ears, velvety coat and lovable expression, Leo has a look that is hard to ignore.
“His long ears, soft coat and squishy face definitely help,” Cuchiaro says with a laugh. “He’s cute too, of course, but what people don’t always see is how deeply he connects to everything around him. He notices everything. He remembers people, places, routines—he really feels like part of every moment we’re in.”
But the best part? Leo’s journey began with an unexpected second chance.
At just 5 months old, he was surrendered because of his excessive drooling, a common Bracco Italiano trait. Fortunately for Leo, he found his way to someone who understood him. Cuchiaro became connected to him through Bracco Italiano rescue work and immediately recognized the opportunity to give him the home he deserved. Since then, Leo has thrived.
As North Hunterdon’s Next Top Doggy Model, Leo represents much more than a handsome face. He embodies the playful spirit, resilience and unconditional love that dog owners know so well. From canoe rides to cheeseburgers and bird watching, he approaches every day with excitement.
For Cuchiaro, Leo may always be the hurricane or the tornado. For North Hunterdon, however, he is officially a hometown celebrity.
The casting call was made possible with support from local pet-focused partners who helped create a welcoming day for dogs, families and the community.
EVENT PARTNERS:
K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel Hillsborough 63 Route 206, Suite 100, Hillsborough, NJ 08844 k9resorts.com/hillsborough
Animal Alliance animalalliancenj.org
Tater Bear Treats Order online: @tater.bear.treats on Facebook and Instagram.
THE KIDS
Chef David Burke shares a playful cake pop recipe inspired by family.
DO IT MADE ME
BY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID
HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT
This month’s kids and pets theme got me thinking about the times my kids have impacted my culinary creativity, including one rainy day at home with my boys that unexpectedly inspired one of my most playful desserts: cake pops.
It was back in the early ’90s. My two little boys and I were stuck at home due to torrential rain. When I started thinking about what to feed them, I realized I only had cream cheese and smoked salmon in the refrigerator. “Hey, I’m a chef. I don’t eat at home all that much.”
I thought I was up the proverbial creek until I remembered I had recently acquired a lollipop mold with sticks from a yard sale. Knowing my boys were suckers for lollipops, I figured I could trick them into eating the salmon and cream cheese if they were on a stick.
RECIPE
CHEF DAVID BURKE
BURKE
So, I chopped up the salmon, combined it with the cream cheese, pressed the mixture into the rounds of the mold and stuck a stick in each one. After a brief stint in the freezer to set up, I presented the salmon and cream cheese lollipops to the boys.
They didn’t bite, literally. But I did. And I thought the idea was delicious, fun to eat, and worth revisiting in a sweeter form.
That rainy-day experiment eventually led me to create a cake pop. Presented on a metal “tree” in a variety of flavors, they have remained a best-selling dessert. They can be much easier to make than you might think—see the recipe below—and are sure to add a wow factor to any occasion.
This version uses prepared elements, making it easy enough to become a staple of your own repertoire.
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1 cup water
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 can prepared chocolate frosting
• 18 lollipop sticks
• 1 bag chocolate candy melts
• 1 tube decorating icing
• 1 tablespoon multicolored candy sprinkles, crumbled Heath bar or both
ABOUT CHEF DAVID BURKE:
Brooklyn-born chef and restaurateur David Burke, who was raised and continues to live in New Jersey, is known for playful, precision-driven modern American cooking and elevated comfort classics. His restaurants span New Jersey and beyond, including Red Horse by David Burke at The Bernards Inn and The Station Tavern in nearby Bernardsville.
To learn more, explore his restaurants, or get in touch, visit chefdavidburke.com and follow his culinary adventures on Instagram @chefdavidburke.
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish while the oven is heating.
2. With a mixer on low speed, beat cake mix, water, oil and eggs in a bowl for 30 seconds. Increase speed to medium and beat for 2 minutes more.
3. Pour batter into the greased baking dish. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 28 to 33 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool for at least one hour.
4. Crumble cooled cake into a large bowl. Stir in frosting until mixture is sticky and starts to come together, but is not smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. Roll cake mixture into 18 1½-inch balls and place on a baking sheet.
6. Place ¼ cup candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on high until melted, about 20 seconds.
7. Push a lollipop stick halfway into each ball. Gently dip balls into the melted chocolate to coat. Then place upright in a foam block.
8. While coating is wet, decorate the cake pops with candy sprinkles, Heath bar crumbles or both.
Chef David Burke
20+ YEARS OF LOCAL LANDSCAPING EXPERIENCE
2D / 3D RESIDENTIAL DESIGNS
POOLS + PATIOS
OUTDOOR KITCHEN
WALKS+ SEATWALLS
LIGHTING + PLANTING
Connection, City Lifestyle Style
Fogo de Chão in Bridgewater was buzzing as City Lifestyle welcomed more than 150 guests for a high-energy evening of community, conversation and celebration.
The private event brought together local business owners, community leaders, residents and friends old and new for a night that felt less like traditional networking and more like the kind of party everyone was glad they didn’t miss. With top-shelf cocktails, delicious appetizers and a room full of familiar faces and fresh introductions, the energy was immediate.
“This was exactly the kind of night we love creating,” Publisher Tiffany Slowinski says. “It was fun, lively and full of connection. Seeing so many local businesses and residents come together in one room was incredible.”
Throughout the evening, guests mixed and mingled while exploring vendor tables from Bellezza Si Esthetics, Glow from Within Tea, Dickens Jewelers, Corbo Jewelers, Simply Sweets by Lauren and Apollo Fuel Jerky. Vendors shared samples, special offers and plenty of conversation, giving guests a chance to discover new favorites while supporting local businesses.
The private wine room added another memorable moment, where Julianna Miller Events designed a branded photo backdrop experience and Michael Lago Creative captured professional photos. HCMNJ documented the evening on video, while Angelone’s Florist brought in beautiful floral details that elevated the space.
And because every great party needs a little surprise, magician Will Fern entertained guests throughout the night with close-up magic and interactive moments that kept people laughing, guessing and leaning in for more.
Guests also enjoyed a raffle drawing featuring curated giveaway baskets from sponsors and participating vendors, adding another layer of excitement to an already lively evening.
More than anything, the night captured what City Lifestyle does best: bring people together in a way that feels personal, polished and genuinely fun. It was a celebration of local connection, strong partnerships and the community that continues to grow around City Lifestyle.
Want to get in on the fun? Email Publisher Tiffany Slowinski at tiffany.slowinski@citylifestyle.com to learn more about upcoming events, local stories and partnership opportunities.
City Lifestyle brought local businesses, neighbors and friends together for one unforgettable night.
ARTICLE BY BROOKE BOYER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
MICHAEL J. LAGO CREATIVE CO.
Publishers Tiffany & Jake Slowinski
Dicken’s Jewelers
For Daniel Dojlidko, the inspiration that would stay with him for the rest of his life struck in middle school—specifically, in woodshop class. As a teenager, he commandeered his parents’ basement, honing his skills as he completed various woodworking projects.
“I’ve always been designing and building,” he says.
Dojlidko, who moved to Flemington when he was 7, returned to town as an adult after college and continued to pursue woodworking outside his day job as a computer engineer. In 2020, he launched Creative Spruce Woodworking to bring his designs to a larger community.
His work includes cutting boards, charcuterie boards, coasters, wooden utensils and heirloom-quality furniture crafted from locally salvaged walnut, cherry and maple.
“It’s art with function,” he says. “Every piece is handmade, designed to honor the story of the wood and built to last for generations.”
Dojlidko also uses epoxy to create unique patterns and colors.
“To make a statement out of it,” he says.
Looking for a favorite wooden toy from childhood? Dojlidko can recreate it. He also works with clients to design custom pieces, including desks, coffee tables, dining tables and dressers.
“I can create pieces with different colors and sizes,” he says. “For example, one customer who is a musician wanted me to create a board shaped like a guitar with green epoxy to blend in with their kitchen.”
Creative Spruce Woodworking is available at retail locations throughout New Jersey and beyond. In Hunterdon County, it can be found at The Corner in Flemington and Frenchtown Home & Hardware Store. In Union County, it is carried at Linda’s Gift Shop in New Providence. Morris County locations include Just Jersey in Morristown, and in Monmouth County, Red Bank Artisan Collective also features the work.
Now, Dojlidko is instilling his love of the art form in his 4-year-old son, Jack, who spends time alongside him in his garage studio.
“He helps me load the trucks with lumber, sand and sort colors,” he says.
Jack is one of the many reasons Dojlidko is happy he returned to Flemington.
“I love that it’s quiet and relaxing here. You don’t feel like you have to rush around, and we can go to places like Lambertville for a nice dinner,” he says. “Since it’s the country, there is a lot of open space. My son loves watching the foxes running around the neighborhood.”
Explore Dojlidko’s designs at creativesprucewoodworking.com
Carving Out a Life IN WOOD Daniel Dojlidko
Inside the Flemington studio where custom furniture, childhood-toy recreations and father-son creativity come to life.
ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL DOJLIDKO
Daniel and Jack Dojlidko
A PLACE FOR Paws, Backpacks, AND EVERYTHING In Between
Creating Organized Spaces for Every Member of the Family
ARTICLE BY WENDY SCOTT PHOTOGRAPHY BY WENDY SCOTT, JDW DESIGNS
As closet designers, we often talk about creating spaces that support our clients' lifestyles. But some of the busiest areas of the home aren't the glamorous dressing rooms or beautifully organized pantries—they're the everyday spaces where backpacks are dropped, muddy shoes pile up, art projects spread across tables, and four-legged family members eagerly wait for dinner.
Today's homes are working harder than ever, and families are looking for solutions that bring order to the beautiful chaos of daily life. That's why one of my favorite design trends is the rise of multifunctional family spaces that serve both the two-legged and four-legged members of the household.
The modern mudroom has evolved far beyond a simple place to hang coats. It has become the command center of the home.
Custom lockers give each child a designated place for backpacks, sports equipment, jackets, and seasonal gear. No more frantic morning searches for missing shoes or permission slips. With personalized storage, every family member knows exactly where their belongings belong.
For creative families, homework and art stations are becoming an increasingly popular addition. Built-in desks, charging stations, drawers for supplies, and display areas for artwork transform these spaces into productive hubs where children can learn, create, and stay organized. Parents appreciate having a dedicated area that keeps projects contained while encouraging independence and responsibility.
JDW Designs
And then there are the family pets.
More homeowners are recognizing that dogs deserve thoughtful accommodations, too. Custom feeding stations tucked neatly into cabinetry eliminate cluttered food bowls and storage bins. Built-in drawers can house food, treats, leashes, and grooming supplies, keeping everything conveniently accessible yet out of sight.
One of the most requested features we're seeing today is the integrated dog crate. Unlike traditional wire kennels that can dominate a room, custom-built crates blend seamlessly into the overall design. They provide pets with a comfortable, secure retreat while maintaining the beauty and functionality of the space. When thoughtfully designed, these built-ins often become one of the most appreciated features in the home—for both pets and their owners.
What makes these spaces so successful is that they acknowledge the reality of how families live. Rather than fighting against the daily routines of children and pets, good design embraces them.
The result is more than just organization. It's less stress during busy mornings. It's fewer arguments about misplaced items. It's creating systems that help everyone contribute to keeping the home running smoothly.
Whether it's a row of custom lockers, a creative workspace for budding artists, or a cozy built-in retreat for the family dog, these personalized solutions help transform high-traffic areas into beautiful, functional spaces that truly support everyday life.
Because at the end of the day, great design isn't just about creating beautiful rooms. It's about creating homes that work for the people—and pets—who live in them.
To view examples of custom craftsmanship, visit timelessclosetsandcabinetry.com or stop by the showroom on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at All Quartz, 1 Apollo Drive, Whippany. Consultations are also available by appointment.
Timeless Closets & Cabinetry designs spaces that go beyond basic storage— transforming daily routines into something exceptional. Whether it is a luxury boutique closet, custom mudroom lockers, a dedicated homework station, or a seamlessly integrated dog crate, highend cabinetry elevates both the function and feel of a home. By focusing on the unique intersection of family life and premium craftsmanship, Timeless Closets and Cabinetry creates beautifully refined, personalized environments tailored to a household’s exact lifestyle. From chaotic mornings to quiet evenings, these custom organization systems ensure that every family member—two-legged or fourlegged—has a designated place to thrive.
Bringing Veterinary Care Closer to Home
Homegrown Mobile Vet brings calmer veterinary visits to Hunterdon County pets.
For years, veterinarian Amanda Struening dedicated herself to caring for animals while balancing the long hours and unpredictable schedules that often come with the profession. Over time, she found herself wanting a different way to practice—one that allowed her to continue doing the work she loved while being more present for her family.
“I didn’t want to choose between being a veterinarian and being home with my kids,” Struening says. “I worked too hard for this career to walk away from it. But something had to change.”
That realization inspired Struening and her husband, Chris, to launch Homegrown Mobile Vet, a mobile veterinary practice based in Stockton, New Jersey, serving parts of Hunterdon County.
Unlike a traditional veterinary office, the practice operates from a mobile clinic parked in clients’ driveways. The van is equipped for wellness care, vaccines, blood work, X-rays and ultrasound services, allowing many pets to receive care without the added stress of an office visit.
“A lot of people assume mobile vets are limited,” Struening says. “But we can provide
many of the services you would normally find in a general practice clinic, just in the convenience of your own driveway.”
For many animals, that convenience makes a meaningful difference. Struening says some dogs and cats become stressed before appointments even begin, whether from getting into the car, sitting in a carrier or entering an unfamiliar waiting room.
“With mobile care, pets stay in a familiar environment,” she says. “It’s calmer for them and calmer for the owner too.”
The service has been especially helpful for senior pets and cats, who often struggle most with transportation. Many clients are relieved to avoid the challenge of carriers, car rides and waiting rooms altogether.
Beyond convenience, Struening believes the biggest difference is the personal attention families receive.
ARTICLE BY BROOKE BOYER PHOTOGRAPHY BY THAT WERKS PHOTOGRAPHY
Amanda and Chris Struening
“When I’m at your home, your pet is my only focus,” she says. “There’s no waiting room and no distractions pulling my attention away.”
That one-on-one care also extends to some of the most emotional moments in pet ownership. Struening offers at-home euthanasia services, giving families the option to say goodbye in a familiar, peaceful setting.
Her own experience saying goodbye to her beloved dog, Delilah, helped shape her approach to end-of-life care.
“It was a beautiful sunny day,” Struening recalls. “I remember thinking this is how it should be done.”
Today, she hopes to give families that same sense of peace and comfort when they are facing one of the hardest parts of loving a pet.
One of the greatest rewards has been reclaiming time with her own family. Before starting the business, Struening often missed school pickups and daily routines because of demanding clinic schedules. Now, she and Chris are able to spend more time with their children while building a business together.
“The kids and Chris come first,” Struening says. “I want my boys to grow up seeing that you can chase your dreams while still protecting your happiness and your family.”
As mobile veterinary care continues to grow, Struening hopes Homegrown Mobile Vet represents more than convenience. For her, it is about creating a calmer, more personal way to care for pets and the people who love them.
To learn more about Homegrown Mobile Vet’s services and service areas in Hunterdon County, visit homegrownmobilevet.com
OPENING THEIR HOME, CHANGING LIVES
A FOSTER FAMILY’S MISSION TO CREATE SAFETY, STABILITY, AND BELONGING FOR CHILDREN.
For Candace Kerr, home has always meant more than four walls and a roof. It's a place of safety. A place of love. A place where people know they belong. That belief has shaped every aspect of her life—from raising her family and running a business to welcoming children in need through foster care.
As co-owner of Sunrise Cooling & Heating, Candace Kerr and her husband, Jon Kerr, have spent years helping families stay comfortable in their homes. Since taking ownership of the company in 2019, they have continued a business that has served New Jersey for more than four decades, providing heating, cooling, refrigeration and commercial HVAC services throughout the state.
ARTICLE BY BROOKE BOYER PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN JAE PHOTO VIDEO
But while their professional mission focuses on creating comfort, their personal mission extends even further.
Over the years, the Kerr family has opened its doors to 23 foster children.
For Kerr, foster care advocacy is deeply personal.
Adopted at age 2, she understands the importance of stability and belonging. Growing up in a chaotic environment helped shape her understanding of what many children in foster care experience and inspired her desire to create something different for others.
"When I think about home, I think about safety and love," she says. "Every child deserves that."
Today, more than 3,000 children in New Jersey remain in the foster care system, waiting for permanent homes or placements.
"There are therapy appointments, trauma and hard days," she says. "But at the end of it all, you're providing a child with stability and a place where they can feel safe."
Family remains at the center of everything the Kerrs do.
In addition to running Sunrise Cooling & Heating, Kerr serves as admissions director for three American Christian School campuses and works as worship and creative arts pastor at Resurgent Church in Far Hills.
The Kerr household is rarely quiet. Their children stay active through competitive soccer and dance. Adding even more energy to the mix are five Yorkies and Yorkie-poos that have become beloved members of the family.
Despite a demanding schedule, Kerr encourages parents to focus on simple moments of connection rather than striving for perfection.
"I think parents carry a lot of guilt," she says. "You don't have to do everything perfectly. Sometimes 10 or 15 minutes of intentional conversation can mean more than anything else."
That philosophy carries over into the way Sunrise Cooling & Heating serves customers. Kerr describes the business as relationship-driven, with a focus on building trust that extends beyond service calls.
"We're not interested in being transactional," she says. "We want people to know we genuinely care."
Those relationships often lead to conversations about family, life challenges and even moments of prayer during difficult circumstances.
Whether she's supporting a foster child, helping a family through her church or serving customers through Sunrise Cooling & Heating, Kerr's goal remains the same: creating spaces where people feel cared for.
Because at the heart of every home isn't a heating system or an air conditioner. It's the people inside— and the love that makes them feel safe.
To learn more about Sunrise Cooling & Heating and its residential and commercial services, visit sunrisecoolingheating.com .
Candace and Johnathan Kerr
Candace and Jonathan Kerr
TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE
Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.
Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.
Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK
JANIE
“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”
Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.
After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”
The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.
FEATURING TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.
Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
JONES HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
AUGUST 2026
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
FRIDAYS IN AUGUST
Come Together Friday Night Music
Clinton Guild, Main Street, Clinton, NJ 08809 | 7:00 PM
Stroll through historic downtown Clinton for the seasonal “Come Together Friday Night Music” series. Hosted by the Clinton Guild, this free community event fills the curbside with live performances from multiple local musical acts. Grab an ice cream, browse open boutique shops and enjoy a perfect summer evening beside the river. Learn more at visitclintonnj.com.
AUGUST 1ST & 22ND
Country Line Dancing Party
Sunken Silo Brew Works, 1320 US-22, Lebanon, NJ 08833 | 6:00 PM
Dust off your cowboy boots for Sunken Silo Brew Works’ popular, recurring “Country Line Dancing Party.” Whether you are a seasoned dancer or a complete beginner, this high-energy evening features guided steps, great music and a welcoming atmosphere. Sip historic, Hunterdon County-inspired craft beers while kicking up your heels in the lively taproom. Learn more at sunkensilo.com
AUGUST 2ND
Soulstice Music & Arts Festival
Red Mill Museum Village, 56 Main St., Clinton, NJ 08809 | 10:00 AM
Immerse yourself in the final day of the second annual “Soulstice Music & Arts Festival” at the historic Red Mill Museum Village. This vibrant cultural celebration features an eclectic lineup of regional bands, including the Alex Radus Quartet. Enjoy live painting, interactive art, local food trucks and award-winning craft beverages beside the river. Tickets and info at soulsticemusicfestival.com.
