The Season of Giving
As the holiday season approaches, I want to take a moment to reflect on the joy and warmth that this time of year brings. It’s a special occasion for gathering with loved ones, celebrating traditions, and spreading kindness throughout our community.
The holidays remind us of the importance of connection and compassion. Whether you celebrate with family, friends, or in your own unique way, let’s embrace this season as an opportunity to uplift one another.
Let’s celebrate the spirit of giving by creating a ripple effect of goodwill. We encourage you to engage with local organizations, participate in holiday drives, and share your resources with those in need. Together, we can foster an environment of love and support, ensuring that everyone experiences the joy of the season.
As we navigate this season, I wish you all peace, joy, and the warmth of togetherness. Thank you for being a part of our vibrant community.
Happy Holidays!
LYNN HARRIS, PUBLISHER @SCOTCHPLAINSCITYLIFESTYLE
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Lynn Harris | lynn.harris@citylifestyle.com
SALES DIRECTOR
Kevin Harris | kevin.harris@citylifestyle.com
INTERN
Sophia Mekbeb
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Hazel Nussbaum
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sue Baldani, Erika Landis, Carly Okyle, Shari Erasmus
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Craig Smith, Elena Goggin
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
city scene
1: Scotch Plains celebrated its first-ever Diwali Festival of Lights, organized by Neha Mahajan. 2: Felton Jones from Savory Selections Catering serves the community at an Oktoberfest fundraiser. 3: FSP Rotary Club at Scotch Plains Day on October 6th. 4: Coffee and Connections speakers and sponsors gather to discuss and promote mental health and wellness. 5: Adorable pup Sugar found a stick during her Invisible Fence training session. 6: The newest physical therapist to join the team at Individual PT, Mike Arocho. 7: Neighbors enjoyed block party fun on Grenville Road.
TALIB MORGAN
Make Spirits Bright: Donate to Toys for Tots
Edward Jones Investments in Fanwood is proud to announce its annual Toys for Tots Drive, which benefits the U.S. Marine Corps. From November 11 to December 10, 2024, community members can drop off new and unwrapped toys at 250 South Avenue, Suite 101, on weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Call 908288-7094 for any questions. Let’s spread joy this holiday season!
by John Capeci
Photography
Fabio’s Bistro Rings the Bell
Owners of Fabio’s Bistro, Gregory Kowalczyk and Ronnie Vojka, rang the closing bell at the NASDAQ on Monday, October 14th. They received this honor for being the number one pizza location on the Slice platform.
Scan to read more
Fanwood’s Famous Christmas House
Greg Roser’s “Fanwood’s Famous Christmas House” at 83 and 87 Paterson Road is set to be lit the day after Thanksgiving! Donations to the NJ Institute for Disabilities (NJID) can be made via a lockbox, mail, Venmo, or online at njid.org. The donations support the Lakeview School for disabled children and group homes for adults, with all funds directed to NJID. Visitors are encouraged to explore the expanded display!
Photography by Fabio’s Bistro
Photography by June Roser
The Gift of Creativity
Celebrate
the holidays with DIY gifts from the heart
When Patrice Chatman first entered AR Workshop in Westfield -- the company she’s owned since September 2023 -- she was working in corporate America and looking for a creative outlet. “I came across AR Workshop through a friend,” Chatman explained. “I’m not artsy and I’m not crafty but I took a hand lettering workshop. I didn't get it.” She lacked ability but compensated with determination and open-mindedness. “We tried [to make] a chunky knit blanket in another workshop and my brain wasn't understanding, so we tried a wood project. I fell in love,” she said. Later, for her first-ever shift as an instructor, she led a wood project for 20 people.
Chatman offers between 5-7 workshops every week. Standard workshops offered weekly include wood-based projects, canvas-based projects, and chunky knit blankets, while specialty workshops, like bottle painting, take place every other week. Additionally, there are seasonal workshops. Her ideas often come from Pinterest or friends’ recommendations, and the project always goes through testing before becoming a workshop. “I don't make decisions for our store lightly,” she says. “If I like it I have the staff try it, and…then my friends. I'm notorious for getting feedback.”
Each workshop lasts two and a half to three hours, and Chatman promises participants will leave with their completed projects within that time frame. “The goal is always the sense of accomplishment,” she said. “You completed something you didn't think you'd be able to do, and I hope it's something you love.”
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELENA GOGGIN
ARTICLE BY CARLY OKYLE
Chunky knit blankets
“The goal is always the sense of accomplishment. You completed something you didn’t think you’d be able to do, and I hope it’s something you love.”
These cozy crafts are a standard workshop offering. While this was originally a craft Chatman didn’t click with, she’s since grown comfortable with it. For others who are hesitant, she says, “The great thing … is we've really eliminated the opportunity for a serious issue on a project. There's really nothing you can do that we can’t fix. Just give it a chance.”
Twinkling wood projects Candle pouring
“I always love a personalized wood sign,” Chatman said, sharing that she recently gifted one to friends who’d renovated their home. The wooden signs can also include lighting. Beyond signs, however, twinkling wood projects can include festive decor, such as haunted houses or holiday villages with fairy lights, depending on the season.
Candles make for popular presents. ”A lot of people want to make candles because it's a… small, tangible gift,” Chatman said. With candle pouring, Chatman said she’s been “experimenting with tips and tricks,” such as new colors to increase vibrancy and placing beads in the wax that reveal hidden messages as the candle burns. For one seasonal workshop, candle pouring is paired with limoncello.
Hat burning
In hat burning, there is no open flame, despite what the name implies. Instead, a stencil is traced onto a suede or feltbased hat with a heat-scoring tool. The possibilities are seemingly endless. “We have something like 250 templates and acrylic paint markers so we can color through afterward to make it pop a little bit,” Chatman said.
There’s H.O.P.E. Up On The Hill
THE GIRLS OF MOUNT SAINT MARY ACADEMY
MAKE GIVING TO THE LOCAL COMMUNITY FUN
ARTICLE BY ERIKA LANDIS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Serenely perched up on a hill overlooking Route 22, Mount Saint Mary Academy is anything but removed from the community. The spirit of giving is alive and well year-round thanks to the H.O.P.E. Club, the school’s popular after-school activity. The acronym stands for Helping Other People Everywhere and focuses its work on community outreach.
Mount Saint Mary Academy, a Catholic college prep school for girls, was founded in 1908 when the land was gifted to the Sisters of Mercy from a man named David Kenny. There was just one stipulation: the nuns were to establish a school with the name Mary to honor his mother. No doubt Mr. Kenny’s mother would be proud of Mount Saint Mary’s Christian atmosphere and academic excellence with a special focus on women.
Donna Toryak, Director of Enrollment Management -and the moderator of the H.O.P.E. Club- has been at Mount Saint Mary for 34 years as well as being a graduate herself. “This is such a joy filled place to be. I never come up the hill in the morning and not want to be here.” Ms. Toryak created the H.O.P.E. Club to bring some of that joy and social interaction to the approximately forty-five retired sisters who live at the school as well as community outreach.
The girls write cards to the sisters with the sisters enthusiastically writing back. The H.O.P.E. Club meetings often involve a craft project given to the sisters to decorate their residence doors. The presence of the sisters is deeply felt by students and faculty. The feeling is mutual according to Sister Rosemary Hudak. “It was
a difficult decision to leave the active life I loved and move to the Mount in retirement. When I first heard the Mount girls giggling and talking on their way to classes, my spirits were lifted. The girls bring an energy in their youth,” Sister Rosemary said. “They bring back fond memories of my own high school days, and I so enjoy seeing them every day and receiving their thoughtful cards and crafts.”
The sisters join the girls for a monthly H.O.P.E. Club BINGO game that brings lots of laughter and a strong sense of community according to Isabella DeLuca, Class of ’26. “Being a part of the H.O.P.E. Club has made me even more connected to the Mount’s call to service not only within the school but to outside organizations also where it’s needed most.”
The club upholds their name by running drives and collections throughout the year. Every February, the club holds a Cereal Drive with theming to match the Big Game Day excitement, collecting boxes of cereal for local charities including Starfish Food Pantry in Plainfield. In past years, the girls have run sock and coat drives. This year there is a special focus on women helping women with the H.O.P.E. Club helping to meet the needs of Elijah’s Promise in New Brunswick by collecting women’s underwear and feminine products.
“Our girls are so very special,” Ms. Toryak says. “We are so proud to empower them to be their best selves.”
If there is a need in your community, please reach out to Ms. Toryak at dtoryak@mountsaintmary.org for further information.
“Being a part of the H.O.P.E. Club has made me even more connected to the Mount’s call to service not only within the school but to outside organizations also where it’s needed most.”
“This is such a joy filled place to be. I never come up the hill in the morning and not want to be here.”
W H EN DUTYCALLS
For many, holidays are about spending time with family and friends. Whether that includes opening presents, enjoying a wonderful meal, or just sitting around reminiscing, these days are special and often a break from the everyday hustle and bustle.
However, there are many people who don’t always get to celebrate these joyous occasions. Here, we meet three such responders who have traded the luxury of holidays off to protect and serve our community.
HONORING OUR LOCAL HEROES WHO CAN’T BE HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CRAIG SMITH
Andrew Gitto
Patrol Sergeant with the Scotch Plains Police Department
After serving in the United States Marine Corps, Andrew Gitto knew he wanted to continue to be of service to his country, and being a police officer, he felt, was the next closest thing.
“I’ve been a police officer for 10 years,” he says. “I worked with the Warren County Sheriff's Office for a couple of years before transferring to Scotch Plains in 2017. It’s a great community.”
Now that he has a family, his schedule can be challenging. “I have two-year-old Cooper and ninemonth-old Keegan, and my wife Alyssa is great. Being in this job, it’s extremely important to have a strong family at home.”
Together for over 16 years, the couple married in 2020, and they figured out how to make his absences work. “We know my schedule ahead of time, so if I do end up having to work a holiday, we celebrate the day before or the day after,” says Andrew.
As a supervisor, he tries to make it possible for his officers who live in town to stop home on holidays to spend time with their families while listening and responding to calls.
John Lestarchick
Chief of the Scotch Plains Fire Department
When John Lestarchick joined the Scotch Plains Fire Department in 1985, he was following in the footsteps of his father and brother. Today, John is the chief of the department, answering over 1000 calls a year.
“When I started, there were about 200 calls a year,” he says. “But now, we respond to everything from the most minimal carbon monoxide alarm and automatic fire alarms to medical emergencies and motor vehicle accidents.”
Answering this many calls comes at a price. “When I joined the fire department, I was only 18,” says John. “Back then, running out for calls wasn't really a big deal, but then my family grew. For my wife Allison and my kids, my having to leave when the pager went off was just a fact of life.” Fortunately, his wife grew up in a family of firefighters, so she understood her husband’s calling.
Today, his kids are grown, but their father’s career has had a big influence in their lives. “My daughter Jane is married to a Jersey City firefighter and my son Raymond is a Westfield firefighter.”
Daniel Sullivan
Chief of the Scotch Plains Rescue Squad
As a teenager in 1970, Chief Sullivan used to ride his bike to the squad building to answer calls. “I was answering about 800 calls a year at that time.”
Today, that number has grown to over 15,000. For his wife, Judy, and kids, Erin and Sean, that meant a lot of missed dinners.
“I married a great wife,” says Dan. “She also belonged to the squad at one point and was a nurse for many years. She understood what I was doing.” In fact, the couple were married on Christmas Eve, and during Christmas dinner with his parents, there was a call and he had to go.
When the kids came along, their dad getting up and running out the door was a normal part of their childhood, and they always managed to work around it. Many times, birthdays and other celebrations took place at the rescue squad when he was on duty.
Even though Dan is a volunteer, he takes his responsibility to the town very seriously. “I believe it’s a vocation,” he says. “If I can't be with somebody I love, it's nice to be helping someone who may be having the worst holiday of their life.”
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com
Escape the Cold: Find Sunshine
Cure those winter blues with a tropical getaway
As a travel advisor, I love helping my clients find the perfect winter getaway. With winter’s chill approaching, there’s no better time to escape to the sun-kissed shores of the Caribbean. Here are just a few fabulous hotels I can book for you, complete with exclusive extras!
Jumby Bay, Antigua, is a true tropical paradise, perfect for both families and couples. This private island resort features pristine beaches and lush landscapes, making it ideal for relaxation. Guests can enjoy personalized service, exquisite dining, and activities like snorkeling and biking through beautiful trails.
Cap Juluca, located in stunning Anguilla, is a romantic haven for couples. With breathtaking sunsets and Moorishinspired architecture, its white sand beaches and turquoise waters create an idyllic setting for unwinding. Enjoy worldclass spa treatments or dine on gourmet cuisine while taking in the scenery.
Parrot Cay in Turks and Caicos is another gem, great for both couples and families. This private island retreat is known for its tranquil ambiance and eco-friendly
practices. Whether indulging in a luxurious spa treatment or exploring vibrant coral reefs, Parrot Cay promises a rejuvenating escape for everyone.
Rosewood Baha Mar in The Bahamas is easy to get to and perfect for families. Featuring a stunning beach, gourmet restaurants, and a fantastic waterpark, it offers something for everyone, ensuring a wonderful getaway.
Rosewood Las Ventanas in Los Cabos, Mexico, is incredibly romantic, offering stunning ocean views and opulent accommodations. Immerse yourself in the local culture or relax in a private cabana, where every detail is crafted for an unforgettable stay.
Finally, Eden Roc in St. Barths exemplifies glamour at its finest, featuring chic design and gourmet dining options. With vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches, it’s the perfect place to unwind.
These are just some of the incredible hotels I can book for you, ensuring you enjoy a luxurious winter escape filled with exclusive perks, but don’t wait - Let’s plan now and get you to paradise!
“
“With winter’s chill approaching, there’s no better time to escape to the sun-kissed shores of the Caribbean.”
Cap Juluca, Anguilla
Rosewood Las Ventanas
Eden Roc, St. Barths
Rosewood Baha Mar
Sea Hare Pool in Jumby Bay, Antigua
Parrot Cay
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE
JONES
The Naughty List
INGREDIENTS
• Bronson’s Original Punch 2oz
• Laird’s Applejack 1oz
• El Guapo Creole Orgeat .50oz
• El Guapo Holiday Bitters 6 dashes
• Cranberry Juice 2oz.
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Combine all ingredients, shake vigorously and pour over crushed ice.
2. Garnish with lemon wheel & cranberries.
ARTICLE BY BAILEY MORRIS
Lavender Vanilla Sugar Scrub
This homemade sugar scrub is easy to make and leaves you with silky soft skin
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• ½ cup of oil (almond oil or olive oil works best)
• ½ teaspoon vitamin E oil
• ½ teaspoon real vanilla extract
• 15 drops lavender essential oil
DIRECTIONS:
Sugar scrubs are amazing for getting rid of dead skin and exfoliating to reveal soft skin.
To make this Lavender Vanilla Sugar Scrub, mix all ingredients together and store in an airtight jar.
events
DECEMBER 7TH
Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Celebration
Alan M. Augustine Village Green 430 Park Avenue, Scotch Plains | 1:00 PM
Enjoy hot chocolate, food trucks, and family activities like horse-drawn carriage rides and a petting zoo. Take photos with Santa and don’t miss the Christmas tree lighting at 5 PM. Bring your family and friends for a day of holiday fun!
DECEMBER 8TH
Historical Society of Scotch Plains and Fanwood Christmas Gathering
Osborn Cannonball House Museum, 1840 Front Street Scotch Plains | 1:30 PM
Come join The Historical Society of Scotch Plains/Fanwood and celebrate a Victorian Christmas! The open house will feature opulent and authentic holiday clothing as well as Victorian Christmas decor. Hot mulled cider will be served along with other tasty treats. Stop in and see this festive display! For more information email Info@HistoricalSocietySPFNJ.org or call 908-322-6700 Extension 230.
DECEMBER 16TH
Scotch Plains Library Pajama Storytime
Scotch Plains Public Library 1927 Bartle Avenue Scotch Plains | 6:30 PM
Children are invited to join us for a fun and exciting nighttime storytime! Grab your favorite stuffed animal and wear your pajamas for a fun evening of stories and songs. This program is geared for children ages 1 to 3 but all are welcome! ASL interpretation will be provided.
INDEPENDENT LIVING l ASSISTED LIVING l MEMORY CARE
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.
CALL TO LEARN MORE & TOUR TODAY AT 908.654.5200
295 South Avenue
Fanwood, NJ 07023
MiraVieSenior Living.com
