Puppy Love!
Blinded By The Light?
Is the sun interfering with your screen time? Does glare force you to change rooms during the workday? Protect your interior and regain your focus with custom solar shades. From classic manual pulls to state-of-the-art automated systems, our shades offer seamless UV protection without sacrificing your view. As a family-owned local business for 40 years, we handle everything from complimentary in-home estimates to professional installation.
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The Heart of Home
Hello Scotch Plains-Fanwood!
This month's issue celebrates two of life's greatest gifts: our children and our pets. Both fill our homes with energy, keep us on our toes, and remind us daily that love is often found in the simplest moments. Whether it's a family dog greeting everyone at the door, a cat curled up beside a child reading a book, or a magazine publisher rushing home to spend time with the cutest pup in the world (ahem), these relationships become a part of our hearts - and our homes.
As parents, we spend so much time teaching our children. Yet pets often teach lessons that are difficult to put into words—responsibility, patience, empathy, loyalty, and unconditional love. They become trusted companions through childhood milestones, celebrations, and challenges. Many of our favorite family memories include four-legged family members right alongside us.
Here in Scotch Plains-Fanwood, we're fortunate to live in a community that values both families and the animals that enrich our lives. Throughout this issue, you'll meet local families, businesses, and organizations that help make our towns such wonderful places to raise children and care for pets.
As summer continues, I hope you'll take time to enjoy the little moments—a walk around the neighborhood, a trip to the park, a game of fetch in the backyard, or simply a quiet evening spent with the people and pets you love most.
Thank you, as always, for supporting our local businesses, sharing your stories, and helping us celebrate the people, places, and experiences that make Scotch Plains and Fanwood feel like home.
Cheers!
TERRY AZAD, PUBLISHER
August 2026
PUBLISHER
Veronica Kautz | veronica.kautz@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Terry Azad | terry.azad@citylifestyle.com
INTERN
Eric Kautz
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Terry Azad, Michelle Daino, Jenn Telis, Eric Kautz
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Craig Smith of Photos by Craig Smith, Casey Orr of Casey’s Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
city scene
Prom in style
1: Interactors from SPFHS volunteer for Mental Health Awareness Month 2: Happy Birthday to Cam! Seen here celebrating with a USA win at Darby Watch Party 3: Grace goes to the Prom! 4: The Bianchino’s cat Mocha is a great companion for daughter Kira. 5: Mazel Tov Mia on your Bat Mitzvah! 6: Asher and date head to the Senior Prom 7: Noah and Charlotte go to Union Catholic's Junior
Families grow, change, and face new challenges. Whether you’re welcoming a child, planning for the future, or navigating a difficult family transition, having the right support can make all the difference.
At Ross & Calandrillo, we provide trusted guidance in all Family Law matters. Our experienced team is committed to helping individuals and families make informed decisions with confidence and peace of mind.
From protecting your children and preserving important relationships to creating a plan for the future, we are dedicated to helping you navigate life’s most important moments with compassion, experience, and care.
8: Kiersten and Reilly dazzle before the SPFHS Senior Prom 9: AIR Owner Maura Batson with Molly and Brinley at the AIR National Championships in Michigan 10: SPFHS Senior Prom 2026 11: Junior Prom vibes! 12: Kids have a blast at Race for Patrick 2026 13: The Interactors Club present at a
Rotary Meeting 14: Dani Bartley loves her kitty cats!
business monthly
The EEF Hosts Another Successful Fundraiser for SPF schools
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Mast joined local parent volunteers and students from across the district to raise funds that support ongoing enrichment programming in our schools. The fundraiser was held at Crossroads in Garwood and featured live music performances from local students. Students from Elementary School through High School performed music from rock to show tunes to 90's grunge!
Beem Light Sauna Celebrates Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting
Beem Light Sauna in Fanwood celebrated its Grand Opening with a ribbon-cutting at the end of May. Owners Kara and Ron Shovlin were joined by Fanwood Councilwomen Erin McElroy Barker and Gina Berry, Economic Development Director Liz Jeffery, and Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Faith Delaney and Board of Directors President Jim Mooney. Located at 282 South Avenue, Fanwood, Beem Light Sauna is an infrared sauna and red light therapy studio offering wellness plans for all. Visit today!
Toast to 20 Years: Sunrise Cellars Celebrates Two Decades in Westfield
Westfield's Sunrise Cellars (Shoprite Liquors) is celebrating 20 years of serving the community. This family-owned business has become a trusted destination for fine wines, craft spirits, and personalized service. Known for its knowledgeable staff, curated selection of wines, and beautiful gift baskets, Sunrise Cellars has built lasting relationships with customers throughout the region. Owner Liad Amir showcased the newly renovated store with a fun-filled day of discounts, live music, and tastings for loyal patrons. Cheers!
Photography by Terry Azad
Photography by Photos by Craig Smith
Photography by Terry Azad
MORE THAN A PLACE. A PURPOSE.
A Community Where Everyone Can Thrive.
People say it all the time - it feels different here. The Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA is a place where community thrives and people of all ages grow stronger together in spirit, mind and body.
From helping children build confidence and friendships to supporting teens and strengthening families, the Y creates opportunities for everyone to learn, grow and thrive. At the Y, every program serves a greater purpose building a stronger community.
Whether you ' re looking for wellness, support, connection, or a place to give back, you'll find a place to belong and a community that cares.
Discover all the ways the Y strengthens our community.
SCOTCH PLAINS-FANWOOD CELEBRATES
ARTICLE BY TERRY AZAD AND ERIC KAUTZ
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
“I AM IN GREATER AWE OF THEIR PARENTS WHO ARE ABOUT TO SEND THREE CHILDREN - AT THE SAME TIME - OFF TO THREE DIFFERENT UNIVERSITIES IN THREE DIFFERENT STATES TO PURSUE THREE VERY INDIVIDUAL PASSIONS. IT IS IMPRESSIVE TO SAY THE LEAST.”
MIKE, MIA AND ALEXANDRA SAVARE:
I am going to come right out and say it -I am in awe of the Savare triplets: Mike, Mia and Alexandra. I am in greater awe of their parents who are about to send three children - at the same time - off to three different universities in three different states to pursue three very individual passions. It is impressive to say the least. I originally reached out to mom Jodi Savare when I learned her daughter Alex was named 2026 UCTECH Valedictorian. But when I did some preliminary research (aka Facebook scrolling) I saw that all three of her children were outstanding in their own right and deserved a spotlight equally.
Mike Savare: A recent graduate of Scotch Plains Fanwood Senior High School, Mike will head to Syracuse in the fall to double major in Sports Management and Business Analytics. His high school career is adorned with academic high achievement (National Honor Society and Math Honor Society Mu Alpha Theta). His list of extracurriculars includes DECA, Greater Peer Tutoring, playing on the championship bowling team, volunteering for Top Soccer and working on the high school newspaper, The Fanscotian. He even did his senior project working for John Mooney at The Tap. But perhaps his greatest contribution was serving alongside his sister Mia as Co-President of SMAC (Student Movement Against Cancer) after having been on the Board since he was a sophomore. This is personal for Mike. Diagnosed at two and a half with leukemia, Mike underwent chemotherapy for three years and still gets an annual scan. He has served as an ambassador for the cancer community through his volunteerism and fund raising for The Valerie Fund, the Henrik Lundqvist Foundation and Jam Kancer in the Kan Association.
Mia Savare is equally impressive - and a clear leader in the community. As we sat for this interview she was greeted numerous times by passersby excited to have a chance encounter with this friendly and warm young
woman. Having just earned the Raiders “Twelve for Twelve” (that’s 12 Varsity Letters for participating in 3 Varsity Sports per year, for all four years of SPFHS. Her sport of choice is running! She does the 800 and 1600 races at the varsity level in cross country, winter track and spring track. She has volunteered extensively through her role as Co-President of SMAC, her work as a peer minister at IHM and as an EMT for the Scotch Plains Rescue Squad where she recently completed her Senior Project. Doing overnights no less! Mia is also a scholar having taken the most notoriously hard math classes offered at the school. She will head to University of Maryland in the fall to double major in Biochemistry and Dietetics. She has received numerous scholarships to support her educational journey including the JT Cunningham Scholarship for exceptional scholar athlete.
Alexandra Savare - to achieve the level of Valedictorian is hard. But to achieve it at one of the most competitive high schools in the region is an absolute feat. She is surprisingly humble about her accomplishments, although I can barely keep up as she recounts the recognitions she received upon graduating from UCTECH in the School of Law and Justice. She won the Math League Award, the Academy of Law & Justice Award, the top Parent Student Organization Award scholarship, a Student Council scholarship and the J. Ackerman Coles PTA Beth Mulvaney Memorial Scholarship at SPFHS. Oh, I’m not done. She was honored for being an AP Scholar with Honor, for completing over 100 hours of community service, for being a FBLA Outstanding Member and as a NJ Governor’s School of The Sciences Nominee. She will attend Lehigh in the Fall to follow their five-year Masters in Business Analytics program, majoring in Finance. All three Savare siblings were named members of the Fenov Scholars Class of 2026. WOW. WOW. WOW.
WHAT STANDS OUT MOST ABOUT PATRICK IS HIS COMMITMENT TO THE VALUES
OF THE SCOUT OATH AND LAW—BEING
TRUSTWORTHY, LOYAL, HELPFUL, FRIENDLY, COURTEOUS, AND BRAVE.
PATRICK KORNER, UNION CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL:
Recent Union Catholic graduate Patrick Korner is a proud Eagle Scout whose leadership and service have made a lasting impact on the community. After joining Cub Scouts in first grade, Patrick spent more than a decade advancing through the ranks, earning merit badges, and completing a service project benefiting the Fanwood Nature Center.
Eagle Scout candidates must plan, fundraise, recruit volunteers, execute, and document their project. The achievement is so demanding that only about 7% of Scouts earn the rank. What stands out most about Patrick is his commitment to the values of the Scout Oath and Law—being trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, and brave. Speaking recently at a local Good Scout Award dinner, Patrick shared his passion for mentoring younger Scouts and the life skills Scouting has taught him. This fall, Patrick will attend the University of Central Florida to study Immersive Experience Design, with the goal of creating experiences that bring joy to people around the world.
SPENCER MARTIN, SCOTCH PLAINS FANWOOD HIGH SCHOOL
Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School graduate Spencer Martin is the kind of student whose curiosity inspires everyone around him. A passionate history enthusiast, Spencer founded the school’s History Club a thriving organization that brings students together for guest speakers, discussions, and volunteer projects at local landmarks such as the Cannonball House. Anyone who can convince a group of teenagers to don Revolutionary War attire in the middle of town is clearly a natural leader.
But history is only part of Spencer’s story. His true passion is physics. Through his determination, he secured renowned nuclear energy advocate Charles Oppenheimer as a virtual guest speaker for the club. Oppenheimer was so impressed that he later invited Spencer to intern with his organization.
Most recently, Spencer completed an internship at the CERN in Switzerland, where scientists from around the world study the fundamental building blocks of the universe. This fall, Spencer will attend Duke University to continue his education in Physics.
CALEB MCDOWELL, SCOTCH PLAINS FANWOOD HIGH SCHOOL
Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School graduate Caleb McDowell has made the most of his high school years through a combination of academic excellence, athletic achievement, and quiet determination. A standout lacrosse player, Caleb earned the respect of teammates and coaches alike for his work ethic, leadership, and commitment to the game.
The Yale University lacrosse commit was a twotime All-American and impressively an Academic All-American while being named the state’s top defenseman in his senior season. Ivy League bound Caleb made the High Honor Roll in each marking period of his high school career. The lacrosse star was also a three-year letter winner for the Raiders’ basketball team. Caleb credits SPFHS with shaping him into the person he is today, helping him grow academically, athletically and as a person. “His work ethic is second to none and everything he has received when it comes to accolades or recognition is 100% earned by him through his commitment, determination and hard work” says SPFHS Varsity Lacrosse Coach Nick Micelli. We will all be watching as Caleb continues to pursue his passions in New Haven this fall.
CONTINUED >
THOSE WHO KNOW CALEB DESCRIBE HIM AS FOCUSED, HUMBLE, AND DRIVEN— SOMEONE WHO LEADS BY EXAMPLE AND CONSISTENTLY CHALLENGES HIMSELF TO IMPROVE.
A DEDICATED STUDENT-ATHLETE, LILY BALANCES THE DEMANDS OF ACADEMICS AND ATHLETICS WITH A SPIRIT OF CURIOSITY AND COMPASSION THAT EXTENDS FAR BEYOND HER HOMETOWN.
LILY GALLAGHER, MOUNT SAINT MARY
For rising Mount Saint Mary Academy junior Lily Gallagher, the world is both a classroom and a place to serve. A dedicated student-athlete, Lily balances the demands of academics and athletics with a spirit of curiosity and compassion that extends far beyond her hometown.
An avid traveler, Lily has explored destinations including Peru, Greece, Ireland, Scotland, Vietnam, Japan, Thailand, Switzerland, Costa Rica and the Grenadines. Each journey has deepened her appreciation for different cultures, histories, and perspectives, while inspiring a desire to make a positive impact wherever she goes. Being of service to others is a big part of Lily’s travel. In Puerto Rico she participated in a program centered on reforestation following the environmentally devastating hurricanes. In Costa Rica she helped build home accommodations for a recently disabled couple. And just recently in Ireland she helped remove an invasive plant species that was negatively impacting the carbon footprint. And while these are large global initiatives, Lily knows meaningful change begins with small acts of kindness. Whether it’s demonstrating inclusivity, sharing her expertise on the ski slopes, or helping when she sees a need, Lily’s global experience shines right here at home.
OLIVER KENT, SCOTCH PLAINS FANWOOD HIGHSCHOOL
“This kid is going to be famous”. Those are the words I said out loud after watching SPFHS Freshman Oliver Kent perform. Having dazzled the audience with his rendition of “Splish Splash I was Taking a Bath” I was taken aback by not just the quality of his voice but his on stage charisma. Donning a suit and bow tie - and confidently incorporating squeaking ducks into his song - there is no doubt Oliver is bound for success in the performing arts.
This spring, Oliver captivated audiences as “Big Julie” in SPFHS’s production of Guys and Dolls . The production earned statewide recognition, being named one of the top five high school musicals in New Jersey by the Paper Mill Playhouse Rising Star Awards program, selected from more than 120 productions.
A lover of musical theater, Oliver is known for fully immersing himself in every role, a dedication that has been shaped by years of experience in community theater and training with programs such as Theatrical Artist Prep and Acting Out.
With parents who both have backgrounds in the theater, and dreams of becoming a professional singer and actor, Oliver is already proving to be a rising star worth watching.
ARTICLE BY JENN TALIS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TERRY AZAD
crafting with crazy
LOCAL MOM OF TWO GETS HER CREATIVE JUICES FLOWING WITH THE KIDS
Turn an empty milk carton into a cozy bird feeder and create a fun family project that helps local wildlife. It's an easy way to recycle, get creative, and enjoy birdwatching right from your own backyard.
DIY Milk Carton Bird Feeder
What You'll Need
• Empty milk carton
• X-acto knife or box cutter (adult use only)
• White paint
• Markers and/or paint for decorating
• String or ribbon
• Bird seed
Instructions
1. With adult supervision, cut a window on each side of the milk carton to create openings for birds.
2. Cut a small “X” in the top fin of the carton for hanging.
3. Paint the entire carton white, applying 2–3 coats and allowing each coat to dry completely.
4. Decorate your feeder with markers, paint, or any design you like. Let dry.
5. Thread a 6-inch piece of string or ribbon through the opening at the top and tie a knot.
6. Fill the carton with bird seed.
7. Hang your feeder from a tree branch, porch, or garden hook where birds can easily find it.
Birds need reliable food sources throughout the year, so your feeder is sure to attract visitors in every season. Different species appear at different times of the year, making each day a little surprise. Hang it where you can see it from a window and enjoy a simple backyard activity the whole family will love.
Jenn Talis
Meet Jenn Talis, a Fanwood mom of two who has been creating since she could hold a crayon. Her kids are her biggest muses and they have taught her that creativity isn’t about making something picture perfect. It’s about imagination, play, and seeing the beauty in simplicity. Most of that simplicity coming from the recycling bin. Follow @craftingwithcrazy on socials for crafty inspo and family fun!
WHO LET the dogs OUT?
Meet the pets staying safe and active with Invisible Fence of Union County
ARTICLE BY TERRY AZAD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASEY ORR OF CASEY'S PHOTOGRAPHY
When Diane Nigam’s beautiful Ragdoll kitten, Chance, began venturing beyond the family’s backyard in Westfield, she knew exactly who to call: Mike “The Dog Guy” Kelly of Invisible Fence of Union County.
Mike had been helping Diane with her pets for years. Initially, she turned to Invisible Fence for her two dogs, Chloe, a sweet Goldendoodle, and Clifford, a lovable giant Sheepadoodle. While both were reasonably well trained, they had a habit of wandering into the finished attic and basement whenever given full run of the house, occasionally leaving behind unpleasant surprises.
Mike recommended Invisible Fence’s Indoor Shields® technology, which creates pet-free zones within the home. Small, movable devices placed near doorways help teach pets to avoid designated areas through gentle, positive reinforcement. The result was life-changing.
“He is such a great animal behaviorist,” Diane says of Mike. “He’s always thinking about the safety of the pet and the peace of mind of the owner. My dogs are so much more relaxed now that they can follow us around the house.”
So pleased with the results, Diane later installed Invisible Fence systems at both her Long Beach Island home and her Westfield property—this time for Chance. “Who knew cats could be trained this way?” she laughs. With lightweight collars and customized training, even adventurous felines can safely enjoy the outdoors.
Across Scotch Plains and Westfield, many homeowners are discovering similar benefits.
In the Stirling Chase neighborhood, where open lawns are preferred over traditional fencing, Sophie the Golden Labrador enjoys the freedom to roam both front and back yards while remaining safely within her boundaries. Owners Mike and Joy Belfour wanted Sophie to have more outdoor freedom without
Clifford and Chloe at LBI CHANCE
the risk of wandering into the street. Today, neighbors frequently spot Sophie relaxing on the lawn, toy at her feet, happily keeping watch over the neighborhood—and occasionally over the Belfour’s granddaughters, Sloane and Noa.
Then there’s Charlie, a neighborhood celebrity in her own right. Charlie loves patrolling the yard, greeting delivery drivers, watching passing dogs, and keeping an eye on local wildlife. She often spends hours lounging in a sunny patch of grass before returning home where she not-so-patiently barks instead of using the doorbell!
And finally, there’s Wilma, a ten-pound escape artist with a talent for outsmarting traditional barriers. While her family’s fenced yard in Scotch Plains keeps her secure, their beach house in Long Beach Island presented new challenges. Mike Kelly traveled to the shore to install a customized Invisible Fence system and provide training. Now Wilma can safely enjoy beach-house life while respecting the boundaries designed to protect her.
“I’ve traveled to Manhattan, numerous Jersey Shore towns, and even Vermont to help my clients,” says Mike. “Wherever pets need to be safe, I’m happy to go.”
For pet owners, that commitment offers something invaluable: the freedom to let pets explore while providing the peace of mind that they're always protected.
WILMA
Sophie and Noa
SOPHIE
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Beyond Admissions: A Legacy of Connection
For the past thirty-five years, Director of Enrollment Donna Venezia Toryak has been welcoming students to her beloved alma mater, Mount Saint Mary Academy. For decades, she has woven one of the richest and most enduring threads into the Academy's tapestry—a thread of hope, tradition, strength, and integrity. It is a thread that has connected generations of students and will continue to do so for years to come. Known for her signature style, Donna is radiant as she recalls some of her fondest memories from
the Mount's well-appointed parlor. It is the very same room where the Sisters once gathered for tea while watching students play basketball during Donna's years as a student. There was no gymnasium then. No Open Houses for prospective families - the school simply mailed her father a brochure and an application. The eldest of four children, Donna was eager to attending Mount Saint Mary Academy. She vividly remembers driving up the long, winding hill for her interview with Sister Mary Lucia Chiurato, RSM (Directress, 1957–1967), and being immediately impressed by the beauty of the campus. Though she has had a front-row seat to the Academy's remarkable growth over the years, that first impression remains unchanged. Today, the prospective students she meets still experience the same sense of awe when they arrive on the hill.
Donna was not the only member of her family to attend the Mount. Her sisters, Deborah and Daria, graduated in 1974 and 1978, respectively. At the time, she could not have known that her own family would become part of a long tradition of Mount families. Today, she welcomes alumnae who return to enroll their daughters, along with countless siblings and cousins who follow in one another's footsteps. "During any given school year, we have at least twenty sets of Mount sisters sharing their experiences on the hill," Donna says proudly. Parents consistently cite empowerment as one of the defining aspects of a Mount education. They value the confidence, character, and leadership their daughters develop during their years at the Academy, and they are proud of the young women they become.
Mary Students
For Thirty-Five Years, Donna Toryak Has Opened the Door for Generations of Mount Saint
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE DAINO
PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHOTOS BY CRAIG SMITH
After earning her bachelor's degree from Dunbarton College of the Holy Cross in Washington, D.C., Donna spent ten years teaching sixth grade in Piscataway's public schools. Yet she never lost her connection to the Mount, serving as president of the Alumnae Association. "I worked closely with Sister Mary Alphonsus, RSM, who was the Development Director at the time," Donna recalls. "I loved being at the Mount, and when Sister Alphonsus mentioned that Sister Joan McEwen was planning to retire as Admissions Director, I knew the position was meant for me." Donna was offered the role by Sister M. Eloise Kays (Directress, 1974–1975 and 1984–2000), and on August 5, 1991, she began what would become a thirty-five-year journey on the hill. "I was given the most wonderful role, and I immediately felt like I was back home," she says with a smile. "Sister Alphonsus's office is now my office."
Throughout her career, Donna has devoted herself to serving both the Academy and the broader community. She has volunteered as President of Meals on Wheels in Woodbridge Township and with Elijah's Promise in New Brunswick. At Mount Saint Mary, she established the H.O.P.E. Club, which serves the retired Sisters of Mercy who reside on campus. Through the club, students build meaningful relationships with the Sisters—whether by playing bingo, delivering cards, or simply spending time together. These interactions strengthen students' connection to the Mercy Core Values while creating bonds that enrich both generations. "If you share your God-given talents with others and strive to be the best person you can be, you are living the Mercy Core Values," Donna says. "Our students experience this charism every day, and I feel enriched by it as well." This year, Donna plans to deepen that connection by becoming a Mercy Associate. "I see the joy it brings to others, and it will help me remain connected to the Academy after I leave," she says. Donna will undoubtedly be remembered as the welcoming face of Mount Saint Mary Academy and for the countless gifts she has shared with the entire Mount community. Directress Sister Lisa Gambacorto, RSM, Ed.S, reflects, "Donna is
the one person I know I can call any day, at any time, for any reason. She has been a constant source of support since I arrived, and I will forever be grateful." Yet Donna insists that she is the grateful one. "Every time I've driven up this hill, it has never felt like work," she says. "The students energize me and give me something to look forward to every day. I am grateful for the connections I've made over the years with my wonderful colleagues, and especially for the support and friendship of Sister Lisa."
After thirty-five years, however, it is time for a new chapter. Donna looks forward to expanding her volunteer work in her parish and community, traveling, spending more time at the Jersey Shore, and perhaps even returning to the golf course. And so, after a career built on welcoming others, it is time for the Master of Hellos to say goodbye.
Donna with Sister Lisa Gambacorto
Westfield Kitchen and Family room makeover
Transformer table for a growing family
...German schmear fireplace upgrade
...Accent wallpaper to unify the color story
...Vintage couch inherited from Nana reimagined
...Open flow for ultimate family gatherings
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
“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 JANIE JONES HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
Come See Mira Vie!
Mira Vie at Fanwood is located in the center of the quaint town of Fanwood and is within walking distance to the train, post office, restaurants and shops! With individualized plans and purpose-built communities, our uniquely comprehensive professional support services are provided respecting our residents’ independence and integrity.
ARTICLE BY TERRY AZAD
Who Can Resist These Puppy Eyes?
If you are a dog owner you have had full blown conversations with your pup. Sure, maybe they can't actually speak - but they say everything they need to with their eyes. Let's see what these Scotch Plains Fanwood dogs have to say:
“I am not actually a dog. My name is Glen. Glen Schwartz. Pleased to make your acquaintance”
Eyes? What eyes? We see you Camber!
“Does
this bowtie make my tail look big?” wonders Tucker
“Pleeeeeease? Please can I jump on the chair? Pleeeeease?”. Who can say no to Winnie?
It would appear Tiki’s request was well understood.
“I
am going to need some attention if you want to pass” says Daisy
“Treat please!” says sweet Callie.
“Ummmmm...a little help here please?” begs Roxy.
“Mess? What mess?” Oh Gia!
LESS WORRY = MORE FREEDOM.
With 50+ years of pet protection and over 3 million, safer happier pets, we are the pet protection experts you can trust. Invisible Fence® Brand solutions help protect what matters most while giving your pets more room to explore both outdoors and indoors.
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INDOOR SOLUTIONS
• Create flexible no-go zones inside your home
• No baby gates or barriers
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