Welcome Fall!
With the changing seasons comes a change in what we are craving, and with fall that often means comfort food. October is our most delectable issue of the year, filled with some of our favorite dishes and beverages around town. We had the pleasure of sitting down with NJ food blogger, Jen Adona, who shared her fall favorites from local restaurants. We also included a recipe for you to try at home, whether you’re baking for just your family or for entertaining guests.
There is definitely an art to creating a flavorful dish that not only satisfies our taste buds but evokes memories. The aroma of certain spices and foods can bring us right back to our childhood, which can be incredibly powerful and comforting. Food brings us all together, and whether we are sharing a meal with loved ones or enjoying a night out on the town, the time spent while enjoying food is invaluable.
As always, thanks for reading, and we’ll see you around town!
LYNN
HARRIS, PUBLISHER
October 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 WRITER
Sue Baldani
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Kristen Helfman
Craig Smith Photography
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
city scene
1: UCEDC highlights Tony Bianchino, owner of Out Run Your Fork Personal Training, in their Small Business Spotlight! 2: FSP Rotary welcomes new President Susan Pastir, president-Elect Curt Brand, Secretary Michael Greaney, and Treasurer Aruna Krishnan! 3: McGinn Elementary School’s media specialist John Lohn spent his summer covering the Olympic swim events. 4: Union Catholic hosted a Watch Party for Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone (C/O 2017), who won gold and shattered the world record at the Olympics! 5: SPFHS football team begins their season with training and practices. 6: Brian Kirpann & Ricardo Roig team up for a culinary and art experience at Angelina’s Bistro. 7: Travel agent, Shari Erasmus, and her husband check out new vacation spots in Italy.
business monthly
Shady Rest Country Club Receives Grant
The Preserve Shady Rest Committee has received a $75,000 grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation. They aim to preserve the township's Shady Rest Country Club as a Black heritage site. The grant will support a master plan to guide preservation and interpretation activities on the property.
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Where Everybody Knows Your Name
Fanwood Pharmacy, known for its personalized customer service, such as greeting customers by name, has recently moved to 45 S Martine Ave in Fanwood. This local staple has become a one-stop shop for your pharmacy needs, placing the patient at the heart of all they do. Not only does Fanwood Pharmacy provide a delivery service for those who cannot pick up their medications in person, but now at their new location, they also have a drive-thru for even more convenience.
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Big C's, Big Move!
Big C’s Italian Grill, a popular local food truck, has found a permanent location! Keep an eye out for their new Italian Grill Deli and Catering at 1587 East Second Street in Scotch Plains. The owner, Clemente Cimmino, studied culinary arts in Rome, Italy, and is excited to bring authentic Neapolitan food to the new location.
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CONTRACTING TO CUISINE
A builder who combines the right ingredients for success
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY VINCI
When Mike Strickland bought a former historic bank in Woodbridge with the intention of creating a restaurant, he needed a builder who could understand his vision and make it happen. He also needed it to be done right and on time. So, he chose Vinci Contracting in Metuchen. “We're always in communication with our clients from the beginning to the end of a project,” says Sam Vinci, who founded the company in 2016. “We give them a daily schedule for the week, and we always stick to our deadlines.” He and everyone on his team, including plumbers, painters and electricians, all share the same goal - to make customers happy. For Strickland’s Steakhouse, going from a bank to a restaurant was a major undertaking. “When you first walked in, there was this big staircase, so in order to open up the first floor, we had to move the staircase to create a nice bar,” says Sam.
“It’s now a really nice lounge area.” A large dining room was created on the second floor, and Jessica Strickland, Mike’s wife, designed the lovely décor throughout the restaurant. The food and drinks are also incredible. “The steaks are phenomenaleverything they bring to the table is amazing,” says Sam. He loves it so much that he has not only eaten there a number of times, but held his Christmas party there as well. “One of my favorite things on the menu is the Bone Marrow appetizer. They also have this
Banker's Board that gives you a platter of all their different kinds of steaks, which is awesome.” Sam loves the feeling of walking into Strickland’s Steakhouse and knowing he had a big part in creating such a successful and beautiful restaurant. “It's definitely a great feeling,” he says. “They're busy all the time, which is good for us too. A lot of people who go in know that we built it, and give us positive feedback.”
VinciContracting.com
Smart Dietary Habits for Healthy Smiles
KEEPING TEETH STRONG, WHITE AND BRIGHT
In a perfect world, dentists would prefer that their patients avoid sugar, enamel-staining drinks such as red wine, and anything acidic like coffee or orange juice. But, most know that’s not realistic.
“I will never tell my patients not to eat or drink something,” says Dr. Robert Martino. “We're human and we all have our vices. Instead, I tell them if they choose to do those things, then they have to counteract those behaviors with good things.”
For example, he says if you're going to drink a Coke or use sugar in your coffee, make sure you're brushing more. “Also be sure you're drinking more water, which will help reduce the acidity levels in your mouth.”
While water is the perfect beverage for healthy teeth, and health overall, what you add to that water can have detrimental effects on your enamel. “I have patients who drink large containers of water and sip it all day long, but if they squeeze lemons into it, the acidity can cause erosion. It's also going to make their mouth acidic, which is going to be more conducive to cavities.” Again, if you do have lemon in your water, follow it with plain water.
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CRAIG SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY
“I will never tell my patients not to eat or drink something,” says Dr. Robert Martino. “We’re human and we all have our vices. Instead, I tell them if they choose to do those things, then they have to counteract those behaviors with good things.”
Adds Dr. Allison Sceppaguercio, who works with Dr. Martino, “One thing that's important to note is that cavity proneness is about the frequency and the length of exposure that your mouth has to sugar. So, if you're going to eat a chocolate bar, sitting and eating it all at once is better than having a piece now and then having another piece in 20 minutes and then another later on. Try to eliminate that grazing throughout the day.”
Also, of course, be sure to visit a dentist regularly, brush and floss, and use fluoride products.
Dr. Martino, who started out as a Naval dentist, took over the practice in Clark more than 25 years ago. Both he and Dr. Sceppaguercio enjoy interacting with their patients and developing long-lasting relationships. “We have a great team here and as a result, our patients are very happy,” he says.
The staff also likes to spend time together outside of the office. “We will often frequent Oh' Brian's On the Green,” says Dr. Sceppaguercio, who lives in Verona. “It's right around the corner and they have great burgers.”
Dr. Martino and his wife Jean, who have lived in Westfield for almost 23 years and raised their two children there, also like to frequent local restaurants. “We like Darby Road and Grano in Scotch Plains, and Farinolio in Westfield,” he says.
DrMartinoDentist.com
Make the most of your education and retirement savings plan.
Learn how to plan for retirement while also putting money aside for your child’s education. A savings plan can help.
We can help find a way to do it all. Contact us to discuss.
Jose H Monroy Jr, CFP® Financial Advisor
2277 South Ave
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
908-518-0788
jose.monroy@edwardjones.com
John M Capeci Financial Advisor
250 South Ave, Ste 101 Fanwood, NJ 07023
908-288-7094
john.capeci@edwardjones.com
EDS-5422-A AECSPAD 22824885
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)
Maureen Maximos
FOODIE PICKS
TO FALL FOR
NJ Influencer Jen from @JerseyGirlTravels shares her picks for October
ARTICLE BY JEN ADONA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTEN HELFMAN
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You might be surprised to find that your new favorite coffee shop is actually a coffee truck. Godwit Coffee is serving up your daily caffeine boost right in the parking lot of Willow Grove Presbyterian Church in Scotch Plains. Fall means it's time for Pumpkin Spice Lattes and you can enjoy their delicious version in a perfect hot or iced Fall sip. Be sure to indulge in a homemade "pop tart" pastry to go with your cozy autumnal beverage.
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This bakery has been a staple in the Scotch Plains community for over 3 decades. They feature delectable baked goods all year, including their very popular donuts. 'Tis the season to enjoy cider donuts, especially this one with the dough and the glaze made with apple cider. This classic Fall treat truly celebrates the season. Don’t forget to grab some of their famous rugelach when you stop by!
Jessica's Restaurant relocated to a stunning new space that feels upscale yet cozy. We love our pasta in Jersey and I can say with certainty that the Short Rib Cavatelli here is some of the best you'll find. This beautiful dish takes overnight braised short rib, maitake mushrooms, burrata, white truffle oil, fresh herbs, and tomato ragu and brings you a sensational experience for the palate. This hearty + flavorful dish is exactly what you need to enjoy this month.
1. GODWIT COFFEE, SCOTCH PLAINS
2. SWISS PASTRY SHOPPE, SCOTCH PLAINS
3. JESSICA’S RESTAURANT, FANWOOD
What better way to spend a Saturday morning in The Garden State than with a visit to a local farmer's market? This one features vendors from all around New Jersey sharing the wonderful bites they grow, make, and source. If a Fall cheese board sounds like a nice addition to a movie night (horror or otherwise), you can find The B's Cheese with items like Trilby from Cherry Grove Farm (Lawrenceville). Complete your board with the Apple Pie Jam from Holly Jolly Jams, honey from Au Honey, and fresh breads from Hoffman Bread. Find these businesses and more on Saturdays, 8am-1pm, through the last Saturday before Thanksgiving.
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If you haven't been here yet, you are absolutely missing out. The ever-changing seasonal food menu makes it hard to pin down one dish to feature (and they're all always a hit). However, cocktails work all year and their skilled bartenders will make you an Old Fashioned or Boulevardier to warm you up on a chilly October night. Their juicy burger is on the menu all year long and with spectacular steaks coming from F.A. DeRosa in Westfield, a night out here will fall into the treat category, no tricks.
Pizza seems to be one food item that everyone can agree on. A visit to Houdini means getting freshly made wood-fired pizza ranging from a classic Margherita to the Prosciutto and Arugula. If food with a little heat doesn't seem spooky to you, my pick is the 'Nduja topped with spicy handmade 'nduja sausage, shaved cappuccio cabbage, tomato sauce, and mozzarella. This hidden gem will become a family favorite as you slowly work your way through their menu of unique and expertly cooked pies. Pro Tip: save room for the tiramisu.
5. SCOTCH PLAINS FARMERS’ MARKET, SCOTCH PLAINS
6. HOUDINI PIZZA LABORATORY, FANWOOD
BLACK SHEEP, GARWOOD
Dining in Style
ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY GENERAL PLUMBING SUPPLY
CREATE THE PERFECT KITCHEN FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY
““Faucets are on modular pods so you can move them around and see what they would look like with the sink of your dreams.”
The kitchen is the heart of every home, so it should be a place where family and friends will want to gather, share meals, toast accomplishments and make memories. General Plumbing Supplies, with its 24 locations in New Jersey and New York, can assist in creating this perfect space.
Visiting its flagship location in Piscataway, which opened in December of 2022 and includes its corporate office and distribution center, is an extra special experience. “It has a fully functioning kitchen faucet display which allows clients to test out dozens of different faucet options from our top brands like KOHLER, Moen and Delta,” says Sarah Barton, its marketing director. “A live kitchen area shows cabinetry, countertop and storage options, and a wide variety of sinks and faucets designed for easy updating allowing customers to see the latest and greatest in kitchen sinks and faucets.”
All of its showrooms are spectacular, including Green Brook and the new Kohler Signature Store in downtown Summit. Customers can view kitchen islands, including counters and countertops that function as work spaces and storage areas, farmhouse kitchen sinks with accessories, water filtration systems (faucets or in-wall dispensers), and a wide selection of cabinet storage options to help keep things organized and countertops clear.
“Outdoor kitchens with countertop surfaces that are made to withstand the elements allow you to create additional space at your home for hosting,” she says.
For more, visit ShopGPS.com or call 1-800 CALL GPS.
“There are a variety of faucets in matching styles and finishes with an array of different spray functions for the kitchen sink, bar, and even a pot filler to make boiling water a breeze. Pot fillers can even be installed near the floor to create a station for your pet!”
CHATTING WITH TIM CARROLL, CO-OWNER OF ENDURE FITNESS TRAINING CO. ABOUT HIS CAREFULLY CURATED WORKOUTS AND NUTRITIONAL SUPPORT.
Fitness for Longevity
ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE PADULA PHOTOGRAPHY BY CRAIG SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY
1. WHAT WAS YOUR VISION WHEN YOU STARTED OPENING FITNESS FACILITIES? IS IT DIFFERENT TODAY?
Initially, when I opened 908 Athletics I was focused on the methodology of CrossFit and how effective it was at helping people get fit and healthy. At the time I was leaving a job in finance to pursue a career change in fitness as it had always been a passion of mine. Over the years I was very involved in the sport/competition side of CrossFit and was interested in that aspect of the business. As our gym grew, I started to realize that the bonds and relationships that were formed inside the gym by our members were really special, and that was something that I wanted to continue to cultivate. Just last year my wife and I opened Endure Training Co. in Scotch Plains. While the training methodology has shifted, the desire to create a space for people to improve their health and fitness while also making connections, feeling included, and having fun, is stronger than ever!
2. IS THERE ANYTHING YOU WISH YOU KNEW AT THE START OF YOUR FITNESS JOURNEY?
One thing I wish I had known at the start of my fitness journey is the importance of consistency over perfection. When I first began, I thought every workout had to be intense and every meal had to be perfectly planned to see results. But over time, I realized that the real progress comes from showing up regularly, even on the days when motivation is low or life gets busy. It's about building habits and making fitness a part of your lifestyle, rather than striving for an ideal that's impossible to maintain. Embracing that mindset earlier would have saved me a lot of stress and helped me enjoy the journey more.
3. HOW IS ENDURE TRAINING CO. DIFFERENT FROM OTHER GYMS?
While Endure Training Co. is still very much a group fitness facility centered around strength and conditioning, longevity is at the core of our workouts and exercise selection. Many of the exercises we do in class are suitable for people in their 30s-40s, but also for the aging population who are looking to maintain a high quality of life.
4. WHAT TYPES OF CLASSES DOES ENDURE TRAINING CO. PROVIDE?
Endure offers a variety of structured classes that focus on different aspects of fitness. Our program includes classes named Power, Push, Pace, and Pump, each targeting specific fitness goals:
Power classes are designed to maximize strength and explosive output through short, intense intervals. Exercises include heavy kettlebell swings, med ball slams, and sprints.
Push classes aim to improve your VO2 max, which is critical for cardiovascular endurance and recovery. Push workouts typically involve high-intensity intervals with exercises like rowing, goblet squats, and burpees.
Pace classes focus on building aerobic capacity and endurance through steady-state efforts. These workouts combine resistance training with sustained cardio, aiming to improve metabolism, cardiovascular health, and stamina for everyday activities.
Pump Days are a full 60-minute class solely dedicated to strength training. On these days we do a full-body circuit aimed at building strength and muscular endurance. The daily schedule at Endure Training Co. rotates to focus on one of these styles, allowing participants to develop a balanced fitness regimen that includes strength, conditioning, and endurance
5. WHO SHOULD CONSIDER ENDURE TRAINING CO.?
Everybody! Endure’s program can be tailored to any age and any fitness level. Endure’s programming and expert coaching can help anyone achieve their fitness goals.
6. WHAT TYPE OF NUTRITIONAL GUIDANCE AND SERVICES ARE OFFERED AT ENDURE TRAINING CO.?
Endure offers a variety of nutritional services designed to support our clients’ fitness goals. We provide 1-on-1 nutrition coaching, which is personalized to help individuals with weight loss, muscle gain, or other specific dietary needs. Depending on the specific needs of our clients we may have monthly, weekly, or daily check-ins to ensure their success. Additionally, we organize group nutrition challenges to foster a community-driven approach to healthy eating and lifestyle changes. Group challenges are a great way for our clients to jump-start their nutritional journey in a fun way. Many times our clients will transition to 1:1 coaching after challenges. This holistic approach to fitness and nutrition ensures that members receive guidance not only on exercise but also on how to fuel their bodies effectively for optimal performance and health.
realty report
It’s Pumpkin Bread Season
The Perfect Recipe For Some Autumn Comfort
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups canned pumpkin
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil or canola oil
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 2 eggs
Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a mixing bowl, add the flour, baking soda and baking powder, spices, and salt. Set aside.
3. Combine the oil, butter, and vanilla in a liquid measuring cup.
4. In a mixing bowl (with a paddle attachment), beat the pumpkin, sugar, and eggs until combined.
5. Turn the mixer to low and slowly add the liquid ingredients. Let this process take about 1 to 2 minutes so the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
6. Using a spatula, fold the dry ingredients into the wet and slowly fold until the ingredients are blended.
7. Prepare a 10 x 5 loaf pan by buttering it really well and then adding a strip of parchment paper to the bottom and up the sides for easy removal.
8. Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 1 hour. The bread will be fully risen in the center, like a loaf. Make sure it’s fully cooked and brown on the top otherwise it will fall in the middle once removed from the oven.
ARTICLE BY DON SEAMAN
OCTOBER 2024
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
OCTOBER 4TH
Family Movie Night & Pumpkin Painting
430 Park Avenue, Scotch Plains | 7:00 PM
Kids from 1 to 101 are encouraged to come to the Alan M. Augustine Village Green and paint a pumpkin, and watch a family friendly movie! For more information, call the Dept. of Parks and Recreation: 908-322-6700 x 223
OCTOBER 6TH
Scotch Plains Day
430 Park Avenue, Scotch Plains | 11:00 AM
Let's celebrate Scotch Plains! This year, the town's traditional celebration will focus on food trucks, live entertainment, and community based groups. Join in on the fun from 11 am - 3 pm!
OCTOBER 19TH
Fanwood Performance Series
Kuran Cultural Arts Center a.k.a. The Carriage House 135 Watson Road, Fanwood | 7:00 PM
Come out to see Scott Cook & Marc Douglas Berardo! Scott Cook's songs tell stories, ruminate on the human condition - and are sprinkled with wry humor. Marc Douglas Berardo's songs tell tales of unusual and beguiling characters and places Make reservations by emailing your name, show date and # of seats to fanwoodperformance@gmail.com. Admission: Suggested donation of $15 adults / $10 seniors, students, CASH ONLY. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
OCTOBER 20TH
Mount Saint Mary Academy Open House
1645 US Highway 22 W Watchung, NJ | 12:00 PM
Visit Mount Saint Mary Academy for their annual open house. Come meet faculty, staff, and students, and gain insights into the Mount's academic and extracurricular programs. Registration will open on Wednesday, September 4th.
OCTOBER 27TH
Out Run Your Fork Personal Training And Nutrition Open House
474 N Ave E, Westfield | 12:00 PM
Run, Don't Walk to Out Run Your Fork from October 27 to November 2 during their Open House. Bring a friend for a free workout! All are welcome!
OCTOBER 31ST
Halloween Parade & Costume Contest
Downtown Fanwood | 6:15 PM
It's time for the annual Fanwood Halloween Parade & Costume Contest! The parade starts at Fanwood Memorial Library and will head towards La Grande Park, where the costume contest will take place. This event runs until 7:30 pm.
