Scotch Plains, NJ April 2024

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Investing in Yourself

Investment by definition is the act of devoting time, effort, energy or finances to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result. We can invest in a lot of things such as our community, our relationships, our finances, and our health with the hope that the effort will have a positive impact. We can invest in our community by supporting our local businesses, schools and local organizations. We can serve the community through volunteerism and investment in future generations. On a larger scale, we can participate in public surveys and stay educated and involved with future city planning. Investing in our finances helps create wealth, meets longterm financial goals and secures our retirement.

On a personal level, we can invest in our families and enrich relationships by giving time and effort to the people in our lives that mean the most to us. This type of investment has the most meaningful impact to not only ourselves but to the people closest to us.

While investing in ourselves, relationships, community and finances can look very different from person to person, the effort we put into these areas of our lives are done with the common goal of having a positive impact that yields results. In this issue, we wanted to share about some of the ways that we can invest in our community, our finances and with those that we love.

LYNN HARRIS, PUBLISHER @SCOTCHPLAINSCITYLIFESTYLE

city scene

1: The SPF Girls Raider Wrestling program became the first ever Union County team champions. 2: Scotch Plains-Fanwood Girl Scouts visited Goshu-Kwan Martial Arts Studio for a class. 3: Kara Shovlin, Tony Bianchino and Dr. Nicole Salge at Darby Rd. 4: The SPF Rotary Club celebrates Al Smith’s 80th birthday. 5: Over 120 people joined the JCC of Central NJ for their 12th annual poker tournament. 6: Community members work out at Pretty Beast Mode Fitness. 7: The community came out to celebrate Endure Training Co’s grand opening.

@JCCCENTRALNJ

@PRETTYBEASTMODE_FITNESS

@SPFRAIDERWRESTLING

@GOSHUKWAN_MA_PLUS

@ENDURETRAININGCO

@PHOTOSBYCRAIGSMITH

@PHOTOSBYCRAIGSMITH

business monthly

Bernadette opens in downtown Scotch Plains

Downtown Scotch Plains welcomes Bernadette, a French Mediterranean restaurant that serves tapas-style shareables, sweets, libations, and brunch. You can also find a collection of spirits curated from independent and family-owned distilleries. Bernadette is brought to us by Melody, the owner of another downtown favorite Black Drop Coffee and Ryan, who previously worked at the renowned Caymus Winery in Napa. Their shared vision has turned to reality as they opened their doors on February 29th.

Scotch Plains Author, Debra Green, Releases New Book

A bighearted novel with an endearing and diverse cast of characters, MAHJONG AT MARA’S illustrates the bumpy ride to understanding, experienced by the complicated patchwork of people who make up suburban America. Debra Green lives with her husband in Scotch Plains, where they raised their three children, and makes references to local spots throughout her novel.

Out Run Your Fork's Owner Awarded CEO Maven of the Year

Tony Bianchino, owner of Out Run Your Fork, has been awarded the prestigious 2023 CEO Maven of the Year award. Tony's incredible journey from financial struggle to remarkable success highlights a story of resilience, growth, and cherished family values. From overcoming a million-dollar debt to transforming Out Run Your Fork into a thriving fitness hub, Tony's unwavering determination and strategic foresight have reshaped the narrative of his life.

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Renovations & Equity

ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOAN MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY

INVESTING IN YOUR HOME EQUALS

““If you do what works for you, chances are it’s going to work for somebody else. When it’s done well, it’s a great investment.”

Whether new construction, renovations or additions, investing in one’s home will bring great rewards not only while living there, but also when it comes time to sell.

“We build wealth through equity,” says Jack Bonomo of Bonomo & Sons, Inc. in Clark. “When we do a renovation on a home, it will add more value than what we charge.” Bonomo's current renovations include a full-home renovation in Scotch Plains (seen in photos).

While most people know that modern kitchens and bathrooms are great selling points, homeowners and home buyers today are also looking for convenience.

“Putting laundry rooms on the second floor has been big, but now we're getting a lot more requests for two laundry rooms,” he says. “A full-size one on the second floor, and then a laundry closet on the first floor, especially if they have a pool.”

Bonomo & Sons

Bonomo & Sons has been family-owned and operated since it was founded in 1999 by Benedetto and Vincenza Bonomo. Today, son Jack handles the day-to-day operations. “I love what I do,” he says. “I couldn't see myself doing anything else.”

The company also recently hired Lisa DeMarco, an extremely experienced project manager. “She brings a very detail-oriented approach to the construction process,” says Jack.

People are also investing in entertainment areas. “We're building a custom home that has an indoor gym with a sports simulator. This adds tremendous value because if they ever want to sell, this is what other people want too.”

Built-in bars that include an ice maker, refrigerator, dishwasher and sink are popular, as are theater rooms. Home automation with audio and video is also becoming more common.

Outdoor living space is another sound investment. “People want to feel like they're on vacation without having to get on a plane,” says Jack. Again, down the road, this will increase the value of a home.

To invest in your home, go to Bonomo-Sons.com.

Since 1959, the doctors and team members of Dentalcare Associates have been dedicated to excellence in dentistry and we cordially invite you to join our dental family. All phases of dentistry are offered in a comfortable, modern office setting. Our goal is to provide our patients a healthy smile for a lifetime!

DENTALCARE FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

Preventive care • Checkups and cleanings

Tooth Whitening • Cosmetic Bonding

Porcelain Veneers • Ceramic Crowns

Invisalign clear aligners

Implant supported crowns and bridges

Periodontal (gum) treatment • Extractions

Emergency services

DENTURES AND SAME DAY REPAIRS

Full and partial dentures

Flexible partials • Implant overdentures

Laboratory on premises

All repairs schedule permitting

• New patients welcome

• Day and evening appointments

• Afternoon appointments for students walking from School One, Nettingham, St. Barts, SPFHS

• Participating with most insurance carriers

• Flexible payment options for every budget

Dr. Robert V. Scalera, Jr.

Dr. Lara Merker

(Periodontal and Implant Specialist 5798)

Dr. Maureen Maximos

567

WWW.NJDENTALCARE.COM

The Keys To Your Dreams

ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOAN MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY

When it comes to investing in real estate, there are quite a few options. So, let’s break it down and see what might work best for those thinking about putting their money into the market.

FAMILY HOME

When looking to buy a family home, you want it to be a place that you can enjoy for many years, whether by yourself or while raising a family. But, you also want to make sure it’s a good investment for the future.

For the most optimal return, what factors should be taken into account? “Definitely location, the neighborhood, and the school system, as well as the potential to maybe expand, because what might be big enough for you may not be big enough for someone else who wants to buy it down the road,” says Alicia.

VACATION/SECOND HOME

This could be a place to enjoy with your family during the year, and also a property that you may want to rent out when not using it. So, what should you focus on for this type of investment?

Here are some questions that Alicia says are important to ask. How close is the house to the beach or other desired location? What amenities does it have? Does it have a pool? All of these things make the home more desirable to renters.

Also, find out how quickly the values are rising in that area. “If they're going up, then you know you can quickly gain value equity,” she says. “If they're not, you have to really run your numbers.”

For example, what is the purchase price, and if you’re taking out a loan, what is the cost per month? How much is homeowner’s insurance?

“You also want to factor in taxes, association fees if the home has an HOA (homeowner’s association), and flood insurance if you need it,” says Alicia.

What about a cleaning service? Especially if the property isn’t close by, you’re going to need someone to go in and change the sheets, put out fresh towels and make sure it's clean for the next guest, she advises. If it’s a house with a pool, who is going to maintain it, and what about landscaping? Just like with a primary home, there are many expenses involved.

You might be getting a certain amount in rent, but then what happens when a huge ticket item is needed? Did you budget for that, or is all the money that you just made being used to replace the roof? Is that a good investment?

“Factor in what your payment is going to be and then what your return is,” she says. “People often think, ‘Oh wow, I can get this much in rent,’ but they don't take into account all those other things that add up.” If your payment is more than the rent, you have to make sure you’re okay with covering the other expenses.

The good news is that any rental income brought in offsets the cost of owning that vacation home and provides you with equity and nice returns when you decide to sell one day. At the same time, you get to enjoy having a place to make happy memories with your loved ones.

“I often work with people who are just starting out who know nothing about investment properties. I’m also going to help them spot a good deal.”

“For a lot of people, where they live is life-changing. They can start hosting family functions and holidays and grow their families. A home is their happiness.”

King James Court Rental Crestwood Road Flip (After)

RENTAL PROPERTY

This is a property that you have no plans to live in; you just want to use it as an investment. “It's all about the income,” says Alicia. “Location isn’t as important. Instead, how much can you buy it for? How much are the taxes and how much rental income can you get?”

If you’re bringing in less than what you’re putting out, then that’s not a good investment. It’s also important to have someone on hand to do any maintenance needed, she says.

If the numbers work, then having this type of property is a great addition to your financial portfolio. It will provide a nice monthly income or pay off a mortgage on the property. And once you sell, the equity is all yours.

HOME FLIPS

This is one of the most complicated real estate investments. “You really should be a professional and really know what you're doing,” says Alicia. “Your numbers are so important, so if you don't know anything about how much some things are going to cost, you're going into it blindly. You should have some kind of a partner or a mentor, somebody to ask about these things. It’s usually a lot more money and work than you thought it was going to be.”

These types of properties can often be found through sheriff's sales. “Sometimes you can also get on some lists where you’ll get a call for off-market properties,” she says. “These properties are the best because not a lot of people know about them.”

Alicia has connections on off-market properties, and also access to contractors who can help with all types of projects. “Most realtors have a person for everything,” she says. “I know an electrician, I know a painter. I'm very resourceful with having a team of go-to people.”

Regardless of the type of property you’re looking to invest in, Alicia can assist you every step of the way. “I’ve been a landlord for many years and have two rental properties myself,” she says. “I'm very experienced with marketing rentals, scanning tenants, and knowing all the laws and regulations to protect you as a landlord.”

She enjoys guiding people in real estate transactions, including those looking to buy multi-family homes. “I have helped clients buy and sell many multi-family properties,” she says.

Whether investing in a property that you’re going to live in, vacation in or just rent, Alicia can run the numbers with you. “I often work with people who are just starting out who know nothing about investment properties. I’m also going to help them spot a good deal.”

After all, when she first became involved in the real estate market, she had to learn too. Soon after having her second daughter, Alicia was ready to have a career of her own. “I had a friend who worked at ERA in Scotch Plains and she encouraged me to get my real estate license,” she says.

“At that time, I knew nothing about the process - I didn't even own a house, so it was a whole new world. Now, of course, I own a house, I have rental properties and I've flipped houses. I’ve come a long way.”

Getting into real estate, she feels, was a smart move. “I just love when I can deliver the news that an offer was accepted,” she says. “It's one of the biggest purchases or sales that somebody will ever make. It's a big deal and they're trusting me.”

She adds, “For a lot of people, where they live is life-changing. They can start hosting family functions and holidays and grow their families. A home is their happiness.”

LEARN MORE: Alicia Holden, from ERA Suburb Realty in Scotch Plains, is here to help us invest in real estate. Not only has she been a Realtor® for 11 years, but she’s also a landlord, real estate investor and a house flipper, so she knows every facet of the real estate market.

ERASUBURB.COM | #HOLDENTHEKEYS

Building Wealth While Building Community

ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CRAIG SMITH

““It’s never too late to do something, but it’s important to have somebody experienced guide you in that right direction.”

With all the investment opportunities available, most people find choosing where to put their money overwhelming. There are so many variables to take into account, including age, lifestyle and goals. Fortunately, there are experts who can assist with making these decisions.

“Before we pick any type of investment or any type of a plan going forward, we sit down with our clients to understand their needs and concerns, their short and long-term goals, and their risk tolerance,” says Steve Goldberg, a financial advisor with Family Investors Company in Fanwood.

When people try to make financial decisions on their own, they often bring emotions into it, which is a mistake, he says. “They might do something without really having a good objective viewpoint. We try to be as objective as humanly possible about people's money in order to ensure that our clients don't make rash decisions that might make them happy in the short term, but in the long term ends up being a financial mistake.”

Some people may feel that they are too young or too old to start investing. For example, recent college graduates might believe they don’t need to worry about financial planning just yet.

“What I do is show them the cost of waiting,” says Steve. “When you start investing early and you do it on a regular basis, it's amazing how quickly that money can grow. Whether you're putting it into an IRA, a Roth IRA or in a regular investment account, just taking the advantage of time and compounding your money can potentially lead to tremendous numbers.”

Other people may think they waited too long and are now too old to do anything about it. “It's never

too late to do something, but it’s important to have somebody experienced guide you in that right direction and to also maximize what you have. You want to make sure your money is in the place that suits your needs.”

Even if someone doesn’t have a lot of money, there are still avenues to invest. “One thing that sets us apart from some of the other companies out there is if somebody wants to come in and start something with a relatively small amount of money, we're not going to turn them away,” he says. “We'll do the same due diligence and have that same initial consultation with them to try to determine what’s best for their individual circumstances.”

The experts at Family Investors Company, which offers a full range of services and products, including retirement planning, mutual funds, stocks, bonds, and life and long-term care insurance planning, base all their recommendations on individual needs. “That's really the most important thing we do. Picking out specific financial products is much less important than picking out the type of portfolio that is suitable for each client.”

Steve joined Family Investors Company 23 years ago and the company itself was established over 63 years ago. While the founder, Fred Chemidlin, passed away, his sons Peter and Matt, and step-daughter, Darraugh Valli, have continued to run the business with the same integrity shown by their father.

“The reputation that the team at Family Investors had in the community is what really attracted me to working with them,” says Steve. “I see the mutual respect that clients have for us and we have for them. Pure and simple, it’s all about doing the right thing.”

Steve has lived in Scotch Plains for 38 years and along with his wife, Patricia, has raised two children here. While Andrew and Melissa are now grown and out of the house, the couple doesn’t have a totally empty nest. They also live with their rescue pug mix, Bugsy. “He's 10 and has been with us almost six years,” he says. “He spends most evenings sitting on my lap.”

However, Steve doesn’t spend much time sitting around. When his kids were growing up, he spent a lot of time coaching their sports teams and getting involved in their other activities. He also joined the Scotch Plains Business and Professional Association where he enjoyed many leadership positions including president, vice president and scholarship chairperson. This led him to playing Santa Claus for Scotch Plains for over 20 years, which he enjoyed immensely. He still occasionally plays St. Nick at various events in and around town. In addition, he helped organize the concert series on the Green. Not surprisingly, in 2003, he was named Scotch Plains Volunteer of the Year.

“When my kids were getting older, I really wanted to branch out of just our community, and that's why I got involved in the Fanwood-Scotch Plains Rotary in 2008,” he says. “The Rotary is all about ‘Service Above Self,’ and

that’s kind of how I've lived my life. I am a past president and current membership chairman of the club, and I also work on the district level as an assistant governor trying to help other clubs grow their membership.” The founder was also a long-time Rotarian.

Steve also loves the fact the people he works with, including the owners, are very involved in the community and actively give back. In honor of Fred, the company established annual scholarships at both Union Catholic and Scotch Plains-Fanwood High Schools. During the pandemic, Family Investors made donations to the Immaculate Heart of Mary Food Pantry and to the Rotary Club food drive, and continue to make donations throughout the year to local organizations.

Sharing his philanthropic passion with his colleagues and community is only outweighed by his love for his family, which now includes grandchildren. Also coming in close is his devotion to hockey. “For over 50 years, my family has had New York Rangers season tickets,” he says.

To find out more about how Steve and Family Investors Company can help you with your investments and financial goals, go to Familyinvestors.com

ARTICLE BY CARLY OKYLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CRAIG SMITH

DR. ROBERT V. SCALERA, JR. EXPLAINS HOW PROPER DENTAL HEALTH CAN LAST A LIFETIME

A HEALTHY INVESTMENT

A lot has changed since Dr. Robert Scalera, Sr. founded Dentalcare Associates at 567 Park Avenue in Scotch Plains 65 years ago. To begin with, his son -- who grew up just two doors down from the practice -- is now the director.

If you want your teeth to last a lifetime, good oral care needs to begin early. “It first starts with growing up as a child and the level of care that parents provide. That's the foundation,” Scalera said. “We instruct parents how to introduce

“THE PRACTICE HAS EXPANDED SO THAT ALL DENTAL PROCEDURES CAN BE DONE UNDER 1 ROOF, FROM IMPLANTS AND DENTURES TO TOOTH WHITENING AND NIGHT GUARDS.”

While digital dentistry has improved over the years, it still comes down to the basics. In this case, basic homecare refers to brushing your teeth daily as well as flossing and using mouth rinses. For those looking to advance their dental health, Scalera says those simple actions -- especially before bedtime -- have the biggest return on investment. Yet, he warns, “Regardless of what you do at home, if you're not following up with the dentist you're going to get cavities, and you're going to get periodontal disease.”

the idea of homecare with a newborn by rubbing the gums with gauze, and [encourage parents to have their kids accompany them to appointments] by age 2, just for show and tell."

As the patients age, their oral health concerns might change. “As you get older there are other factors in terms of your dental health,” Scalera said. “If you have fillings at an earlier age, as you get older the teeth get brittle and you can break a tooth. Health problems like diabetes can cause rapid tooth decay.” He notes that certain medications can impact dental health, as well.

“IF YOU WANT YOUR TEETH TO LAST A LIFETIME, GOOD ORAL CARE NEEDS TO BEGIN EARLY.”

Luckily, in the case of Dentalcare Associates, they often do see patients for their entire dental health cycle.  “I think we're up to 4 generations at this point,” Scalera said. “I have classmates that their parents started with us, my peers came to us, and now their kids and grandkids, too.” Dr. Scalera, Dr. Lara Merker and Dr. Maureen Maximos — along with their team members are committed to providing patients with the personalized, high quality dental care they deserve.

“I like dentistry because it’s the opportunity to make people smile,” Scalera said.

Visit www.njdentalcare.com to find out more and book your appointment.

APRIL 2024

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

THROUGH APRIL 30TH

Imprints of India

The Gallery | 75 Maple Street, Summit

Scotch Plains artist Kiran Dhaliwal showcases her series of oil paintings titled Imprints of India at The Gallery in Summit, NJ. Through Imprints of India Dhaliwal becomes more and more focused on her birthplace of rural India. The Gallery is a Partnership between the Summit Free Public Library and Visual Arts Center of New Jersey. www.artcenternj.org | www.summitlibrary.org www.kirandhaliwalartist.com

APRIL 11TH

Poetry Reading

Scotch Plains Public Library - Lower Level | 1927 Bartle Ave, Scotch Plains | 7:00 PM

Immerse yourself in the world of poetry, as Moriah Cohen, Liz Kingsley and Robin Rosen Chang share their enchanting verses. All poets will have their published works available. Admission is free; attendees are encouraged to join Friends of the Scotch Plains Library. ( www.scotlib.org/friends-of-the-library )

APRIL 13TH

Original Jazz Fanwood Performance Concert

The Carriage House | Watson Rd, Fanwood | 7:00 PM

The season kicks off April 13 with a night of original jazz, featuring the Ted Brancato Trio as well as Alejandro Ataucusi. Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for students and seniors – cash at the door. Reservations are strongly suggested and can be made by emailing fanwoodperformance@gmail.com. ( https://fanwoodperformanceseries.org )

APRIL 20TH

Earth Day Celebration

Jersey Land Park | 2377 Richmond St, Scotch Plains | 8:00 AM

Volunteers and site captains needed for the Earth Day celebration community clean-up. Locations include various properties, park spaces and waterways. The seedling giveaway will take place at Jersey Land Park from 9am to 11am. Volunteers must be 6 years of age to participate. Please register at https://register. capturepoint.com/scotchplains (2024 Events). Rain Date: April 21st

APRIL 20TH

Best Friend Dog and Animal Adoption, Inc.

Brunch and Tricky Tray

Shackamaxon Country Club | 100 Tillinghast Turn, Scotch Plains | 12:00 PM

Come out for a fun event that helps animals in need! Best Friend Dog and Animal Adoption, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is holding its annual Tricky Tray. Attendees will enjoy a delicious brunch and get to try their luck at winning some exciting prizes. Tickets cost $60 for adults and $35 for children 12 and under. Email bestfriendadoptnj@gmail. com for tickets.

APRIL 20TH

Fundraiser for Autism Awareness

Out Run Your Fork Personal Training | 474 North Ave East, Westfield | 10:00 AM

Out Run Your Fork Personal Training is hosting its annual Fitness Fundraiser for Autism Awareness Month. This year, all proceeds will be donated to Inroads to Opportunities, an organization that provides vocational preparation, transition from school to work, job placement and mental health services to individuals with a variety of disabilities from ages 16 through retirement. (https://www.outrunyourfork.com/)

DAY SPA

THE PERFECT SETTING FOR ANY OCCASION

EXPLORE THE LIFESTYLE

Whether you have been golfing your entire life, or have just begun to appreciate the game, Shackamaxon offers a membership option that suits you. Enjoy year-round golf, exciting social events, delightful dining, a resort-style pool right in your backyard, and more as a member of Shackamaxon

For every special occasion in your life, Shackamaxon Country Club offers an atmosphere of elegance and gourmet catering that creates beautiful memories. Whether it's a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, indoors or outdoors, for personal milestones or corporate events, we invite you to celebrate at Shackamaxon.