Scotch Plains, NJ June 2024

This

My Intern Scotch Plains-Fanwood Senior Isabella Colon

Isabella will be attending Loyola University This Fall

Celebrating the Gentlemen

Let us celebrate the wonderful men in our lives this month! The roles they play are truly significant, as they serve as beacons of strength, offering unwavering support, guidance, and encouragement. Their presence and influence have a profound impact on our development, shaping our beliefs, values, and attitudes in a positive way. By demonstrating qualities such as love, kindness, and perseverance, these exemplary individuals inspire us to push ourselves beyond our limits and strive for excellence in all that we do. Through their exemplary work ethic and unwavering dedication to their families, the men in our lives teach us the importance of resilience, perseverance, and determination in the face of life's challenges.

Here's to the fathers, husbands, grandfathers, sons, brothers, teachers and friends in our lives that serve as pillars of strength, offering guidance, encouragement, and wisdom. Their unwavering presence and influence help mold our character and instill in us important values and principles that shape our outlook on life. Through their acts of love, compassion, and dedication, these remarkable individuals inspire us to strive for greatness and reach our full potential. Their tireless efforts and commitment to their families set a powerful example for us to emulate, teaching us the value of hard work, determination, and resilience in overcoming obstacles.

So much gratitude for the special men in our lives! Cheers to you!

LYNN HARRIS, PUBLISHER

June 2024

PUBLISHER

Lynn Harris | lynn.harris@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Stephanie Padula | stephanie.padula@citylifestyle.com

SALES DIRECTOR

Kevin Harris | kevin.harris@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sue Baldani, Carly Okyle

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Joan Marie Photography, Chelsea Doyle

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

Family Tree / Business

Caffrey

city scene

1: Happy Father’s Day! John Pizzi, owner of Casa Construction and Development, with his granddaughter. 2: Happy Father’s Day! Joseph H Monroy Jr. and his children; Acacio, Sofia, and Sabastian. 3: Paul and other volunteers help paint and prepare the Highland Swim Club pool for summer. 4: Realtor Bob Coloney meeting friends/ clients at Darby Road Pub. 5: Tony Bianchino supports the FSP Rotary Club with a presentation on business development. 6: Scotch Plains City Lifestyle partners gather to create projects at AR Workshop Westfield. 7: Shackamaxon Opening Day Golf Tournament winners: John Garofalo, Arvind Gurnani, Michael Martinetti, and John Urbano.

business monthly

Darby Rd Pub: Where Everybody Knows Your Name

Joseph Mortarulo has owned Darby Road Public House and Restaurant in Scotch Plains for 12 years. Widely known for their St. Patrick's Day Festivals, Joseph is already gearing up to host the community for the 2026 World Cup! Darby Rd Pub was named after the road it sits on, which had a name change over the years from Darby Road to Park Avenue, and they pride themselves on their handmade pretzels! Joseph also owns Houdini Pizza Laboratory in Fanwood.

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Get a Kick out of Family Martial Arts Center of SPF

Adam Sackett is the Owner and Head Instructor of Family Martial Arts Center of SPF. He has been practicing karate since 1984 and teaches Isshinryu Karate, a style from Okinawa that is great for children. The classes offered at the center focus on improving several skills such as confidence, discipline, focus, listening, and other essential life skills. Mr. Sackett welcomes all students aged 4+, offers private lessons and hosts birthday parties. Try two free classes if interested!

Marklyn T. Johnson Brings Laughter to Town

Marklyn T. Johnson, a longtime resident of Scotch Plains, is a man of many talents; comedian, author, motivational speaker, podcaster, and substitute teacher. Johnson strives to create an impactful change in the world through his work. He will be MCing two upcoming local events - Fanwood's Ladies' Night and FanJam. According to Johnson; laughter heals, laughter changes the world. To learn more about Marklyn T. Johnson visit his website; https://marklynspeaks.com/

Are you looking for a photographer who can handle any occasion with skill and creativity? Look no further than C Paige Photography! Whether its a wedding, corporate event, family portrait, or product shoot, C Paige Photography excels in capturing the essence of every moment with an artistic touch.

With a keen eye for detail, C Paige Photography provides top-notch services tailored to your needs. Enjoy personalized, professional, and versatile photography that brings your vision to life. Discover the versatility of C Paige Photography and book your session today!

Wedding & Engagement | Corporate & Events

Portrait & Family | Product & Commercial

cpaigephotography.pic-time.com

908-398-3507

@c_paige_photography

JOIN

CLUB the

WORLD-CLASS ENTERTAINMENT AND FUN FOR PEOPLE OF ALL AGES

ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

CHELSEA DOYLE

In 1908, when R.W. Nelson arrived at the Westfield train station, he had no idea he would become a part of golf history. He moved onto a huge parcel of land in Scotch Plains, and in 1916, hired renowned architect Albert Tillinghast to design a golf course.

Since then, Shackamaxon Country Club has been a staple in the town. When it was acquired by Heritage Golf Group in 2020, it truly became a world-class venue for playing golf, swimming, celebrating happy occasions, and holding corporate events.

Many upgrades have taken place in the last few years. The ballroom, which can hold up to 325 guests with a dance floor, and the more intimate “Living Room” with its original fireplace, were renovated in 2022, as was the members’ grill, which has a beautiful deck overlooking the golf course.

“We run the gamut with events,” says Shackamaxon’s general manager, Dennis Wuyscik. “We host weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, social events, lifetime milestones and corporate events.” Membership is not required to reserve these spaces.

Membership does come with many privileges though, and there are five different options to choose from to fit your lifestyle and needs. Heritage Plus Members can play at any of its 38 golf courses around the country, including four in New Jersey.

There are also many fun offerings for children. “Recently, we had kids come in for a couple hours to paint pots and watch movies while their parents listened to live music in the grill,” he says.

Heritage is investing heavily in each of its clubs. “We have a young energetic department head staff and we're striving for excellence and improving every year,” says Dennis. “We’re constantly making the golf, food and service better.”  These improvements came with no assessments, which is very rare in the world of country clubs.

To learn more about Shackamaxon Country Club and how becoming a member can enhance your and your family’s entertainment options, go to ShackamaxonCC.com .

“We host weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, social events, lifetime milestones and corporate events.”

Feel Better, Feel Younger, Age Better

ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHELSEA DOYLE

“

“Our tagline is ‘Feel better, feel younger, age better.’ That’s really what most people want to do.”

When Martin and Kim Musikant of Cranford opened Active Life Fitness in Garwood in 2015, they wanted it to be a place where older people would feel comfortable, get fit, and make friends. “What separates us is the atmosphere and the age demographic,” says Martin.

Membership is only open to those aged 40 and older. The other thing that makes Active Life stand out is the personalized attention everyone receives from the experienced, knowledgeable and caring trainers.

“Most of our trainers are over 50, and everybody is certified and trained by me,” he says. “You don't have to be certified by law in New Jersey, but it’s the right thing to do.” At 62, he has been a trainer for over 25 years, and Kim is also a certified trainer.

While his trainers direct members on how to do their exercises and make sure they're using the right amount of resistance, being a trainer, he says, is not just about the ABCs of training; it’s more about the rapport and relationships that are built. And, these relationships don’t just happen with the trainers, but with fellow members. Because the small group trainings only have about 10 people, members get to know each other.

“We've had members who’ve met here, and now they're hanging out socially,” he says. “They're best buddies.”

Active Life Fitness offers private and online training as well, but regardless of which program they choose, all new members receive their own personalized program before beginning training.

“The first thing we do is sit down and do a strategy session. We learn as much as possible about them, their health and injury history, their goals, and their motivation.”

For some, this could be to increase self-esteem, keep up with grandchildren, play a sport they love, look good for a wedding or because they want to wear shorts this summer.

“They just want to feel better,” says Martin. “Our tagline is ‘Feel better, feel younger, age better.’ That's really what most people want to do.”

Next, members are taken out to the gym floor for a movement assessment. “It's also really important to have some starting numbers, so we have a body composition analyzer. It's non-invasive. They can see the ratio of muscle fat against their total body weight, because the weight on the scale doesn't tell the whole story. I could have two people who weigh 150 pounds and they could look completely different.”

After that, members go back to his office and discuss and design the best program for them. This personalized program is reassessed every six weeks or so.

In addition to weight loss and muscle tone, there are what he calls non-scale benefits, like more confidence. “When people feel better about themselves, it makes everything else in their lives better.”

Active Life offers nutritional coaching as well, which is included with membership. Martin says the people who take advantage of it usually see the best results. “We provide them with resources and teach them healthy eating habits.”

Some of their members have been with them since day one. “That’s because we have an awesome team of coaches, plus my amazing assistant Ileana,” he says. “To have a successful business, you can't go it alone.”

To become a member, go to ActiveLifeFitness.net

Jose H Monroy Jr, CFP® Financial Advisor

2277 South Avenue Scotch Plains, NJ 07076

908-518-0788

John M Capeci Financial Advisor

250 South Avenue, Ste 101 Fanwood, NJ 07023

908-288-7094

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

(Periodontal and Implant Specialist 5798)

FAMILY

TREE / BUSINESS

Caffrey Tree and Landscaping has its roots in Scotch Plains since 1978, with the second generation now enjoying the fruits of success.

Bob Caffrey, 68, calls himself a Scotch Plains boy, despite his current residence in North Plainfield. He grew up in town and lived there until he was 30, and he started his business there, Caffrey Tree and Landscaping, in 1978. Working for himself was a matter of practicality rather than passion, as he explained that, with both of his parents passing before he was 30 years old, he started his own business to make money and put his brothers and sisters through school.

Approximately 25 years after the business began, his son Bobby, then 15, started working for him. At first, he was dragging brush and laying sod. It wasn’t until Bobby turned 18 that he began cutting down trees and working with chainsaws. Now 35, Bobby says he’s been doing sales, billing, management, and firewood delivery. “I wanted him to do every job so that when he went to sales he would know what it took to get the job done,” Bob said.

CONTINUED >

ARTICLE BY CARLY OKYLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOAN MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY

The process was gradual and natural, but it was never forced. “My father said if I wanted to do the tree business he'd be very happy but if I didn't he'd support anything I did otherwise, so there was never any pressure,” Bobby explained.

It was, in fact, a combination of a labor of love for Bobby. He tried other jobs, but ultimately, the family business was the best fit. “I always liked working outside,” Bobby said. “I did some bartending but didn't like the hours, and I had a financial job after college, but I’m not a desk job guy.” He was working for Major League Baseball when Hurricane Sandy happened, and his dad needed extra hands. Bobby was used to following his dad’s directions by then, as his father had been his coach in baseball, basketball, and football as a child. On the job, though, he learned from his coworkers. “They taught him the job more than I did, my other employees,” Bob said. “He knew how to talk to the men because he worked beside them for seven or eight years. He gives respect and commands respect by actions and you can't ask for more than that.” Bobby went on to become a licensed tree expert. He’s had his arborist license for nearly a decade.

In 2019, Caffrey senior was sidelined with spinal meningitis and spent two months in the hospital. Thankfully, his son was well prepared to step up. “My biggest compliment was when customers I had for over 40 years said, ‘We didn't know you were gone. We didn't know you were sick. We thought you were on vacation,’” Caffrey said.

Outside of work, the relationship seems equally compatible. “There are no difficulties for us. We butt heads here and there but we get along really well so it works out,” Bobby said. “We try not to talk business on the weekends or at family things, and we do a pretty good job at keeping work at work.”

Bobby recently became a father himself. His son, Chase Robert, is a toddler now, but the future comes quickly. “If it's still a profitable, fun business to do, perhaps one day, he’ll continue,” Bobby said. Bob has other ideas. When asked if he’d want his grandson to join the business, he laughed. “No,” he said, “this work is too hard. I’d love to see three generations, of course! Who wouldn’t? But I’d love to see the kid use his brains, not his body. I wouldn’t push anybody into this.” It remains to be seen how far the apple will fall from the tree.

Smoked

Old Fashioned:

Recipe provided by Darby Road Pub;

ingredients:

• 2oz Misunderstood Ginger Whiskey

• 2 Dashes Angostura Bitters

• 4 Dashes Orange Bitters

• Spoon in Maple Syrup

• Maple Bourbon Smoke Chips

• Orange Peel Garnish

Once combined, pour over ice

THREE FRIENDS FROM HIGH SCHOOL TURNED A MOBILE, PART-TIME GIG INTO A BUSINESS THAT HAS GROWN AND MATURED WITH THEM.

Driving

Success

ARTICLE BY CARLY OKYLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOAN MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY

When Jonathan “Jay” Nevius, Rory McQuillan, and Darien Gomez started their detailing business as teenagers in high school, they ran it out of their cars, driving around Union County after school and during the summers to people’s homes to clean cars.  “A lot of it in the beginning was self taught,” says McQuillan, “but then we took classes and certifications.”

Since 2021, when two of the three founders graduated from college, Premier Detailing has had a brick-and-mortar location at 520 Martin Place in Scotch Plains that averages between 30 and 40 customers a month. Typically, they work with cars at the beginning or the end of their lifecycle with an owner. “Our typical customer is someone who's just bought a new or used car, or a car that's new to them,” McQuillan explains. “A lot of times they'll take it to us straight from the dealership [Other] people come to us to get detailing done right before they're about to sell the car, either back to a dealership or [to a] 3rd party.”  He notes that a paint correction and a ceramic coating or paint protection film preserve the value and longevity of the vehicle, while a detailing can also raise the sale value.

The ceramic coatings are popular, both with customers and with the staff. The clear liquid protection layer -- which McQuillan calls “a wax on steroids” -- is the only one on the market that has an insurance-backed warranty to cover claims like UV damage, bird waste, or chips from road debris.

McQuillian says that the focus is protection and preservation, but both he and Nevius say that customer service is key. “The biggest thing I've learned is that you have to invest in people first before they invest in you,” Nevius explained. “I think that [the most important thing is] being able to understand and empathize with people and find and solve their actual problem. The money comes, but I try to deliver a solution, not just a service with the most expensive product.”

SUMMER SUMMER CAMP CAMP

July 15 - 19:

July 29 - Aug 2: Mad

August 5 - 9: Rainforest / Safari

August 12 - 16: Camping

August 26 - 30: Superhero Week

JUNE 1ST

Grand Opening of Out Run Your Fork Personal Training's New Location

500 Central Ave, Westfield | 9:00 AM

Join owner Tony Bianchino for the grand opening of Out Run Your Fork Personal Training's new location and celebrate with specials on membership and gear! Find out more information at https://outrunyourfork.com/

JUNE 1ST

Collection to Benefit the Plainfield Area Humane Society

Edward Jones, 250 South Ave, Fanwood | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Drop off unopened cat and dog food, cleaning products and new or gently used leashes, toys, pet carriers/crates, blankets and towels. Collection runs 05/20 through 06/21 Monday to Friday.

JUNE 2ND

Mindful Eating & Painting

Casa by Cherry Home Designs - 401 W Broad St, Westfield | 10:30 AM

Come as you are to any (or all) of the Casa Events and Workshops!  Workshops Continue through June: June 2- Mindful Eating & Painting, June 9 - Best Friend Paint and Sip, June 14 - Fathers Day Kids Painting, June 15 - Studio Casa: Decorate Your Dorm, June 18 - Paint and Picnic, June 22 - Behind the Artist Event: The Casa Family Edition Learn more at https://cherryhomedesigns.com

JUNE 6TH

Fanwood

Ladies'

Night Out

Downtown Fanwood | 6:00 PM

The 8th Annual Ladies' Night Out will be held on Thursday, June 6, from 6 – 9 p.m. in downtown Fanwood!  The event will offer participants an opportunity to enjoy music, mingling and shopping to support our local merchants!

JUNE 12TH

Patrick's Downtown Race to Summer 5K

Scotch Plains Fire House - 430 Senger Place, Scotch Plains | 6:00 PM

The Patrick's Downtown Race to Summer 5K is a charity run that raises funds for various charitable causes and organizations. Check-in will begin at 6:00pm, with the Family Fun Run at 7:00pm and the 5K starting at 7:30pm. An after-party with music and BBQ from the Stage House Tavern will take place on the Alan M. Augustine Village Green. Registration is required.

JUNE 13TH

AR Workshop - Hat Burning Workshop

AR Workshop of Westfield - 226 N Ave W, Westfield, NJ 07090 | 7:00 PM

Transform one of our stylish hats with a personalized burning technique. Choose your hat color and dive into the creative process, opting between stencil or freehand methods, all under the guidance of our expert instructors. Additional June Workshops: June 14 - Wood Workshop, June 20 - 1 Day Summer Camp: Canvas Pillow Registration is required at https://www.arworkshop.com/

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