Issuu

Life is Short. Eat the Cookie. TH E FO O D ISSU E

O C TO B E R 2 02 6

Calling all twirlers... it’s not too late to get

BACK TO BACK TO BA T! BALLET!

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Feed Your Soul

October 2026 PUBLISHER

Hello, Scotch Plains-Fanwood! Who’s Hungry? This month, we’re celebrating the many ways food (and bev!) brings us together. Think about the experiences that stay with you: the smell of Mom’s sauce simmering on the stove when you walk through the front door, the satisfying crunch of a perfectly cooked chicken wing, the silkiness of a chocolate mousse or the vibrant colors of a beautiful sushi platter. Food engages all of our senses and has a remarkable way of transporting us—to a childhood kitchen, a favorite vacation, a holiday table or a special night out. And I bet if you scrolled through the photos on your phone right now, you’d find more than a few “foodie pics.” Because food makes us happy. The people we share it with, and the places where we enjoy it, make us happier still. I love the way a good meal represents our culture, our personalities and our traditions. It is woven into our vacations, holidays, stories and our community. Here in Scotch Plains-Fanwood, we are fortunate to have one of the best farmers markets around. Every Saturday from May through November, we can visit local vendors to stock up on fresh produce, grab a made-to-order breakfast sandwich or pick up something sweet for dessert. But the bags of goodies are only part of the experience. The real joy comes from running into neighbors and friends, supporting local purveyors and hearing their stories. It’s time spent with our kids and our dogs, all while delighting our senses and connecting with the people who make our community special. And lucky for us, there are always new restaurants, cafés and experiences opening their doors around town. The places we eat become part of our lives—our favorite neighborhood spots, the restaurants where we celebrate birthdays and anniversaries, the café where we grab coffee with a friend or the place we bring visiting family because we just have to show them what our town has to offer. Because at the end of the day, food is never really just about the food. It’s about who’s at the table.

Veronica Kautz | veronica.kautz@citylifestyle.com CO-PUBLISHER

Terry Azad | terry.azad@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Terry Azad, Tiffany Slowinski C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Terry Azad, Jimmy Douglas Photography, Gravitude Brand Lab

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

Cheers! TERRY AZAD, CO-PUBLISHER @SCOTCHPLAINSCITYLIFESTYLE

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Scotch Plains City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Scotch Plains area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/SCOTCHPLAINS

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Scotch Plains City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

SAVE THE DATE: 10/13/26

October 13, 2026 | 7PM - 10PM Stage House Tavern, SP $25 at the Door Join Scotch Plains City Lifestyle in our first fundraiser to support SPF's own Tami Eagle Bowling in her mission to shine a light on Metastatic Breast Cancer Research. Food and friendship included; Cash Bar; We will stream the #LightUpMBCLive event which is co-hosted by Tami and includes stories from MBC families along with live performances from special guests.

#LightUpMBCLive Watch Party starts at 8PM

#MetaVivor | #LightUpMBC | #TheEagleMethod All proceeds from the event to benefit #LightUpMBC Follow us on Instagram @scotchplainscitylifestyle for event updates!

Donate to MBC Here

inside the issue OC TOB E R 2 02 6 | FOOD & D R I N K

Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?

Featured

Departments

16 22 26

More Than a Market Finding Community at the Scotch Plains Farmers’ Market

Food for Thought

Coffee and Conversation with Coldwell Banker's Mary DePaolo

Built to Gather

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Farmers Market LIFE + CULTURE

Inspired By LIFE + CULTURE

Home Update HOME + DESIGN

Local Limelight FOOD + BEVERAGE

Events

Magnolia Home Remodeling designs kitchens where families cook, entertain, and gather

With City Lifestyle’s co-branded print + digital packages, your business captures attention wherever our community is looking. Build unmatched local credibility on the page, and drive immediate action online. Ready to double your local reach? Contact your local publisher by scanning below.

On the Cover Aunt Lullie’s Cookie Company delivers sweet goodness every Saturday at the Scotch Plains Farmer’s Market Photography: Terry Azad

Because Privacy Doesn’t Have to be Ugly The Blind Dept. has you, and your windows, covered.

Family owned and operated, The Blind Dept. has been serving the community for forty years. A local and trusted business, we fabricate many of our products in Kenilworth, NJ to ensure you receive the highest quality products for your home. With an experienced team that offers complimentary consultations and in-home estimates, we work to understand your vision, practical needs and budget. A seamless process that includes measurement, fabrication and installation - without leaving the comfort of your home! Don’t go shopping blind - shop The Blind Dept.

Steve and Cathy Siegal, Owners Evan Alexander, Director of Operations www.theblinddept.com 908.245.7766 637 Boulevard Kenilworth, NJ 070

OCTOBER 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

JOHN BASUINO & KARA KENNEDY PHOTOGRAPHY

7 5

1: Actor from Play Theater gives spooky vibes at Team Car Wash annual event. 2: Erin and Dani are engaged! Congratulations to the happy couple! 3: A Fanwood Fireman serves as Grill Master for Fanwood's National Night Out! 4: The Fanwood Rescue Squad represents at National Night Out! 5: Kids "Play in the Park" at Jerseyland Park to celebrate Parks & Recreation Month 6: My Potential sponsors "Play in the Park" to celebrate Disability Pride and Parks & Recreation! 7: Looks like we have a new Fire Chief in town! CONTINUED >

C I T Y SC E N E

We’re Here For You When It Matters Most. 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.

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city scene CONTINUED

TERRY AZAD

SCOTCH PLAINS TOWNSHIP

8: Families loved all the activities at this year's National Night Out! 9: Bob Friscia presents new hand-crafted cornhole boards to the Scotch Plains Police Department 10: Esmooth rocks the house at the Preserve Shady Rest House Party Fundraiser in July. 11: Beautiful ladies Susan Mayers and Mrs. Culp share dinner and friendship 12: Meet-Again Cafe's Ribbon Cutting at 1985 US-22; Enjoy Italian coffee artistry with Japanese light bites! 13: Mary Kate Santulli, The Curious Heart in Fanwood and Krista Little, Self Care Social 14: Smiles all around at Fanwood's Hippie Dippy Fair—featuring over 30 spiritual, holistic and wellness businesses.

Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ S C O T C H P L A I N S C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

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OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/SC OTC HP L A I N S

OCTOBER 2026

business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Sushi BBY Omakase Opens in Scotch Plains A new sushi experience has arrived in Scotch Plains! Sushi BBY Omakase is bringing the artistry and tradition of omakase ("Chef's choice") to 1832 East 2nd Street. With each course selected and presented by the chef, diners can sit back, savor the experience and enjoy an elevated night out. Choose between a 12 or 17-course menu built entirely around the day's catch. Sushi BBY Omakase is BYOB and reservations are highly recommended.

Haunted Car Wash Returns to Team Car Wash in Westfield The popular "Haunted Car Wash" returns this October to Team Car Wash located at 215 South Avenue in Westfield, NJ. Scotch Plains’ resident Amy Fiore employs actors from her local business, Play Theater. Unrecognizable, actors deliver a spooky or silly experience, depending on each car’s preference. With multiple dates in October, visitors will get a good laugh or a good scare - but all will get a GREAT car wash either way! Tickets are $25 - see Events Section for dates.

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Butter & Jam Opens in Garwood With All-Day Brunch Butter & Jam, the beloved Madison café known for its cozy charm, artisanal baked goodness, and a creative all-day brunch menu has opened a second location in Garwood, NJ. Located at 414 South Avenue, guests can enjoy everything from breakfast favorites and fresh salads to specialty coffee, baked treats and the café’s signature butter and jam boards. Also featuring a full bar and cocktail menu - Butter & Jam is open daily from 8:30AM - 9:00PM.

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OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/SC OTC HP L A I N S

More Than a Market

FINDING COMMUNITY AT THE SCOTCH PLAINS FARMERS’ MARKET

ARTICLE BY TERRY AZAD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TERRY AZAD & ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY AS NOTED

FAR M E R S M A R K E T | L I FE + CU LT U RE

John Specca of CornerCopia helps young Julian with his weekly haul

Reusable tote bags in hand, neighbors make their way to the municipal parking lot on Park Avenue, dogs in tow and stopping to say hello to friends along the way. The scent of fresh-baked goods mingles with live music —and, inevitably, something delicious to bring home. For more than three decades, the Scotch Plains Farmers’ Market has been a beloved Saturday-morning tradition. Established in 1992 as a way to support local farmers, the market has grown into a diverse gathering of farmers, food artisans and small businesses. Today, it is sponsored by the Scotch Plains Business & Professional Association, and managed through the selfless efforts of Apple Blossom’s Lisa Mohn. Lisa volunteers months of her personal time to plan out each year’s market, followed by a weekly sacrifice of sleep to ensure the Market is ready to open by 8AM. Her reward? The hundreds of residents that visit each week and the happy vendors she has curated. . The market's appeal is simple: come for the produce, stay for the community—and leave with a few discoveries you didn't know you needed. There are dozens of vendors and artisans at the Market. Here are just a few of my faves.

CORNER-COPIA: JERSEY FRESH PRODUCE

If the farmers’ market is about celebrating the Garden State, Corner-Copia fits right in. The family-run farm market brings farmfresh produce grown in New Jersey and the surrounding region. Its

philosophy is straightforward: the less distance food has to travel, the more opportunity there is to harvest it at its peak. For shoppers, that translates into the kind of fruits and vegetables that make you want to cook something. Or if you are like me, you buy a bag of nectarines just so you can eat one right there on the spot. So sweet and delicious! A stop at Corner-Copia supports New Jersey farmers, helps preserve the state’s agricultural tradition and keeps more of those food dollars within the regional economy.

PESTO JOE: A FAMILY STORY YOU CAN TASTE

At first glance, Pesto Joe may look like simply another delicious farmers’ market find. But there is a much deeper story behind those containers. Founder Carina Castagna created her business in memory of her father Joe, whose homemade pesto was so beloved by family and friends that he was affectionately known as “Pesto Joe.” After his unexpected passing, Carina found comfort in making his pesto recipe with her mom, and it wasn’t long before their family tradition turned into a business. The company eventually grew through Seton Hall University's business incubator program and into a small-batch specialty food company. Today, Pesto Joe produces fresh pesto in flavors including Traditional, Garlic Lovers and my personal favorite, Fra Diavlo. Using fresh basil sourced from family-operated farms in New Jersey, this is the kind of product that begs to come home with you. Toss it with pasta, spread it on crusty bread, spoon it over grilled vegetables— or simply find an excuse to open the container. CONTINUED >

OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/SC OTC HP L A I N S

BITE ME BAKERY: A LITTLE BIT OF HOME IN EVERY BITE

Owned by lifelong Scotch Plains resident Gabrielle Giles, this pop-up bakery regularly appears at the Scotch Plains Farmers’ Market, offering an assortment of freshly baked treats and making the market feel even more like a gathering of neighbors. Bite Me is a reminder of one of the best things about farmers’ markets: small businesses don’t simply sell to a community—they become part of it. The bakery employs local high school students to support the Saturday operation as well as her catering business tied to Savory Selections on East 2nd Street. Whether you’re there for the made-to-order breakfast sandwiches or the nutella filled croissant, the bakery’s offerings make it easy to add something homemade to your Saturday.

STOP DROP & ROLL: WHEN THE EGG ROLL GETS A MAKEOVER

Then there are the vendors who make you stop in your tracks. Stop Drop & Roll brings a playful, inventive approach to the farmers’ market with gourmet egg rolls inspired by Vietnamese and Asian-fusion flavors. The New Jersey food business has also gained wider attention through Food Network's The Great Food Truck Race, where the team was featured for its fresh, flavor-packed rolls. The concept is exactly what a good farmers’ market discovery should be: familiar enough to understand, but creative enough to make you curious. Forget the idea that an egg roll has to be predictable. Stop Drop & Roll turns the humble roll into a vehicle for bold combinations and unexpected flavors. Like the Bomb Mai roll with lemongrass marinated steak - or the morning eggroll with Taylor ham, egg and cheese. You will leave satisfied and “tacoing” about them!

JERSEY SPIRITS: A LITTLE HOOCH WITH A LOT OF JERSEY SPIRIT

If you've never heard of Jersey Hooch, a Saturday morning at the Scotch Plains Farmers' Market might be the perfect introduction. Jersey Spirits Distilling Co., based in Fairfield, brings its small-batch, New Jersey-made spirits to the market, including its popular Jersey Hooch line. And don't let the name fool you—this isn't your grandfather's moonshine. Jersey Spirits is a fully licensed, grain-to-glass distillery that makes its products from the ground up, right in New Jersey. These seasonal spirits are made with real fruits, produce and spices. Depending on the season, shoppers might find flavors ranging from Apple Pie and Cherry Smash to Summer Tea, Beach Tea and the decidedly unexpected PB&J Sandwich. And, with free tastings, you can jump start your whole day! Who doesn’t love a little 9AM hooch every now and again?

FAR M E R S M A R K E T | L I FE + CU LT U RE

AUNT VICKY’S BICKYS: MARKET TREATS FOR THE FOUR-LEGGED CROWD

Who says farmers’ market shopping is just for people? Aunt Vicky’s Bickys brings a little something special for the dogs in our lives. The company specializes in all-natural, homemade dog treats, biscuits and bones, giving pet parents an easy way to bring home a market-day treat for their favorite four-legged companion. There is something undeniably fun about watching a dog discover the farmers’ market. The sights, smells and friendly faces certainly get Scotch Plains’ favorite pup Charlie excited! A stop at Aunt Vicky’s Bickys gets her tail wagging every time! The treats are homemade and made with an emphasis on natural ingredients, making the booth a popular stop for dog lovers looking for something a little different from the standard pet-store biscuit.

PICKLE LICIOUS: FOR THE LOVE OF THE PICKLE

Some people casually enjoy a pickle. Others take their pickles very seriously. For the latter group, there is Pickle Licious. Often with the longest lines at the Market, this family-run New Jersey company has been part of the farmers’ market scene for decades. Founded in 1995 by Robyn Brown Samra—affectionately known as “The Pickle Lady”— Pickle Licious began with a booth at a local flea market and has grown into a specialty food business offering gourmet pickles, olives, tapenades, hummus, relishes and other pickled favorites. Their selection includes everything from crisp “new pickles” and classic deli-style full sours to sweet and spicy varieties, along with an impressive assortment of olives and other specialty foods. The company has also entered a new chapter. After Robyn and her husband, Ray, retired in 2024, longtime Brand Manager Luis Fermin took over the business with his wife, Sandy, with a goal of continuing the Pickle Licious legacy while expanding its offerings. Luis had been with the company for more than 15 years before taking the reins.That sense of tradition makes Pickle Licious a natural fit for the Scotch Plains market. After all, farmers’ markets are about more than buying food—they are about discovering the people and stories behind it. The beauty of the Scotch Plains Farmers’ Market is that no two Saturdays have to look exactly alike. It is a place where the people who grow, bake, cook, bottle and create our food get to meet the people who eat it. It is a place where small businesses can build loyal customers, where local agriculture gets a spotlight, and where a simple Saturday errand can become a community ritual. So grab your market bags and make a morning of it. The Farmer’s Market is open from May through the end of November, 8AM - 1PM.

Photography by Eli Rabe

OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/SC OTC HP L A I N S

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OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/SC OTC HP L A I N S

ARTICLE BY TERRY AZAD PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Coffee and Conversation with Coldwell Banker’s Mary DePaola

Food for Thought There are some people who seem to collect chapters in their lives rather than simply moving from one to the next. Mary DePaola is one of those people. Over coffee and conversation, it quickly becomes clear that her warmth and graciousness are matched by an unmistakable generosity of spirit. She is the kind of person who makes you feel as though you have known her much longer than you have—and perhaps that is part of what has made her so deeply connected to Scotch Plains.

I NSP IR E D BY | L I FE + C ULT U RE

Mary’s 6 children always have fun together!

Mary loves Scotch Plains. She loves New Jersey. And after more than 25 years of calling the area home, she has experienced the community not from one vantage point, but from many. Her own story is one of constant reinvention. A graduate of Vanderbilt University, Mary began her professional life as a licensed structural engineer, working at the prestigious New York firm Severud Associates Consulting Engineers. But life had another plan. As her family grew, Mary stepped away from engineering to devote herself to raising her children. And grew it did. Mary and her husband raised six children, all of whom have gone on to become professionals themselves: two doctors, one lawyer and three structural engineers. It is a remarkable family legacy—and one that seems to reflect both the academic foundation Mary and her husband instilled and the value they placed on hard work, education and perseverance. But motherhood wasn't the end of Mary's professional story. It was another beginning. As her children grew, Mary found a new way to channel her energy and commitment to her community: public service. She served on the Scotch Plains Township Council, ultimately becoming Deputy Mayor and later serving as acting mayor. It was a chapter that allowed her to become intimately familiar with the inner workings of the town she loved— and to contribute to its future. Then came another reinvention: real estate. Today, as a Broker Associate with Coldwell Banker Realty, Mary helps people navigate one of life's biggest decisions—where to put down roots. And perhaps her greatest asset isn't simply her knowledge of the housing market. It's that she understands, firsthand, what families are looking for when they choose a community. She knows what it means to raise children here. She knows the neighborhoods, the rhythms of the town and the intangible qualities that don't show up on a listing sheet. She understands that buying a house isn't just about square footage, bedrooms or a finished basement. It's about imagining a life.

Ask her what she loves about Scotch Plains and the answer comes easily. It is the people. The sense of community. The connection to New Jersey. The feeling that even as a town changes and grows, there remains something special about its character. And perhaps that is the common thread running through every chapter of Mary's life: connection. Over coffee, she doesn't come across as someone who has carefully constructed a résumé. Instead, her life feels like a series of doors she was willing to walk through when the time was right. For Mary DePaola, reinvention doesn't seem to be about leaving one life behind for another. It is about taking everything you've learned along the way and bringing it with you. And after more than two decades in Scotch Plains, it is clear that this community isn't simply where Mary lives or where she works. It is home. To schedule your own coffee and conversation with Mary visit www.marydepaola.com or call 908.963.8673.

OCTOB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/SC OTC HP L A I N S

OPEN EVERY SATURDAY 8AM - 1PM SCOTCH PLAINS MUNICIPAL PARKING LOT

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highclasselectric.com @HighClassElectric Garwood, NJ Serving Scotch Plains & Union County

Downtown Scotch Plains 1814 East 2nd Street 908-928-6043

Downtown Kenilworth 630 Boulevard 908-928-6044

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Built to G a t h e r MAGNOLIA HOME REMODELING DESIGNS KITCHENS WHERE FAMILIES COOK, ENTERTAIN, AND GATHER

ARTICLE BY TIFFANY SLOWINSKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRAVITUDE BRAND LAB, MAGNOLIA HOME REMODELING

Vic Fiore

H OM E U P DAT E | HO M E + D E SIGN

Chris Fontana

Every good party eventually finds its way to the kitchen island. Someone opens a bottle of wine. Someone else offers to help but mostly stands nearby and talks. Plates fill the counter as guests drift in from the dining room. It usually starts with the food. Something is simmering on the stove, ingredients are being prepared and someone is sneaking a taste before dinner is served. Yet cooking is only part of what draws people into the room. Today’s kitchen does more than support meal preparation. It is where families eat breakfast, children finish homework and guests linger long after dinner. After designing and building thousands of kitchens, Vic Fiore and Chris Fontana of Magnolia Home Remodeling have seen how the room’s role has changed. “Years ago, it was more utilitarian,” Fontana says. “Now it’s the nucleus of the house. Entertaining, business, homework. Lifestyle revolves around the kitchen.” One feature continues to anchor that lifestyle. “I would say a large island,” Fiore says. “Most of the gatherings we have, holidays and events, we all end up around the island.” When designed well, it provides room to prepare food, serve a crowd and spend time together without everyone getting in the cook’s way. That same attention to how people live shapes every decision that follows. Magnolia’s team asks homeowners how often they cook, how many people live in the house, how they entertain and which appliances they need. Children and pets matter, too. A family with dogs may need durable flooring. Someone drawn to marble should understand that it can stain and show wear. A serious cook may need a larger range or more prep space, while someone else may prioritize seating and storage. Lighting can be just as important as the layout. Fiore encourages homeowners to consider natural light, overhead lighting and whether changing

windows or doors could make the room feel brighter and work better. “If you can replace windows and doors and bring more light into the room, I think that’s a great thing to consider,” Fiore says. Those choices will look different in every home, but each should support how the room will be used for years to come. Fiore and Fontana believe a major investment should not be driven by whatever happens to be trending that year. “If you do the right kitchen, it’s one time,” Fontana says. “You get it done, and that’s it.” A properly planned kitchen can serve a family for 30 to 40 years. That requires more than beautiful finishes. It means considering which materials can handle daily life and what will still feel right long after the latest trend has passed. That is why Magnolia encourages homeowners to slow down during the planning process. Clients often arrive with inspiration photos, social media posts and AI-generated images. Fiore and Fontana help translate those ideas into something beautiful, functional and realistic. They guide clients through cabinetry, appliances, flooring, lighting and surfaces while offering honest feedback when a popular look may not age well. Some companies will say yes to every request. Magnolia would rather explain the trade-offs and help clients avoid regret. That long-term thinking also applies to the parts of the kitchen no one sees. Magnolia prefers to strip the room down so its team can inspect and address plumbing, electrical systems, insulation, framing and subflooring before rebuilding. The work may not be glamorous, but it helps prevent homeowners from reopening walls later to repair an aging pipe, add electrical capacity or correct an underlying problem.

“The finished kitchen should reflect how a family actually lives, from how much they cook to how they entertain, gather and use the space every day.” CONTINUED >

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“Everyone just wants to have the kitchen done and look great,” Fiore says. “All the rough stages are an important part of the project.” Budget is also part of every conversation. Magnolia works with clients to protect the priorities that matter most while identifying places to adjust. Sometimes that means choosing a comparable countertop, scaling back a decorative detail or postponing part of the wish list. At other times, the best advice is to wait until the project can be completed properly. Financing options are also available for qualified homeowners. Once construction begins, that thoughtful planning becomes hands-on support. Each project is assigned a dedicated project manager who serves as the homeowner’s primary contact. Fiore and Fontana divide the active projects between them and personally visit their assigned job sites. Someone from Magnolia’s office calls every active client each Wednesday to ask how things are going, answer questions and catch concerns early. “We absolutely do not wing it,” Fontana says. That line may best capture the Magnolia difference. The finished kitchen may look effortless, but the process behind it is detailed, personal and highly organized. A beautiful kitchen gets attention. A thoughtfully planned kitchen becomes part of the way a family lives, cooks and gathers for decades. To learn more about Magnolia Home Remodeling and explore its services, visit magnoliahomeremodeling.com.

L E A R N M O R E : Based in Union and led by owners Vic Fiore and Chris Fontana, Magnolia Home Remodeling Group specializes in kitchens, baths, basements, roofing, siding, and additions. Homeowners can call 855-624-6655 or visit magnoliahomeremodeling.com to learn about free estimates and flexible financing options. M AG N O L I A H O M E R E M O D E L I N G .C O M

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Maddie’s BrewHERy MADDIE BOWEN KEEPS THE NEIGHBORHOOD SPIRIT BREWING ARTICLE BY TERRY AZAD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIMMY DOUGLAS PHOTOGRAPHY

REFRESHING CHANGES AT LION’S ROAR BREWING COMPANY.

If you haven’t been to Lion’s Roar in the last year, it’s time to revisit. Sometimes the best business stories begin with a plan. Others begin with simply showing up, rolling up your sleeves and becoming part of something you love. For Maddie Bowen, it was the latter. When Lions Roar Brewing Co. opened its doors in Westfield in February 2021, Bowen was already deeply invested in its success. In fact, she was there before the doors ever opened. As the brewery’s first employee - and to this day, the only full-time employee, Bowen helped shape Lions Roar from its earliest days into the neighborhood gathering place it has become.

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | FO OD + BE VE RAGE

Now, at just 29 years old, she's taking that relationship one step further: Maddie Bowen is the new owner of Lions Roar. The transition wasn't necessarily part of her original plan. When Lions Roar's previous owners, Tim and Corinne, began looking for someone to take over the brewery, Bowen found herself meeting with prospective buyers. But somewhere along the way, she had an unexpected realization. "I just got territorial and thought to myself, 'Why not me? This already feels like mine?'" Bowen recalls. That instinct turned into a new chapter for both Bowen and the brewery. Over the years, she has managed the brewery's day-to-day operations, bartended, coordinated events, handled marketing and social media, designed its website and, as she puts it, done "everything in between." That hands-on approach isn't changing under her ownership. If you've spent time at Lions Roar, you may already know Maddie. She's likely the one behind the bar, organizing an event, welcoming a new customer—or climbing a ladder to fix something herself. "It's the same brewery everyone knows and loves, just getting better every day," Bowen says. Speaking of better...Lion’s Roar brought on master brewer Steve Ashton in July 2025. Since that time, Steve has introduced his own recipes and improved existing favorites to the delight of our community’s local beer connoisseurs. At the recent NJ Craft Brewer’s Conference Maddie and Steve brought home the Gold for their Farmhouse Saison. Lions Roar has become known for more than its small-batch beer. Trivia, karaoke, music events, sports watch parties and other gatherings have made the cozy South Avenue taproom a place where people come to connect. New ideas like mahjong nights, book clubs and collaborations with local businesses. And you don't have to be a beer drinker to feel at home there.

Lions Roar offers house-made hard seltzers and teas, mocktails, house-made soda and non-alcoholic beer alongside its rotating beer selections. For Bowen, that's intentional. She wants Lions Roar to be a place where everyone can participate, whether they're there for a fresh pint, a community event or simply the company. Bowen's approach to hospitality comes naturally. She credits her parents with teaching her that welcoming people into your space—and making sure they feel comfortable—is simply part of being a good host. Owning Lions Roar, she says, feels much the same. It's a fitting philosophy for a neighborhood brewery whose greatest asset may not be what's in the glass, but what happens around it. Visit Lion’s Roar Brewing at the circle on South Avenue in Westfield.

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Opportunity Awaits. Start Your Journey Today! WAYS TO VISIT: FALL OPEN HOUSES • October 17th @ 12:00 pm • October 28th @ 7:00 pm

INFO SESSION • November 11th @ 7:00 pm *Freshman Foundations & Distinguished Scholars Programs

SCHEDULE A VISIT • Personal Tour

ADMISSIONS: Scan the QR Code to Register for Fall Open House

Stop by the Westfield showroom or call to schedule a consultation today.

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OCTOBER 2026

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

O C TOBE R 2 N D - 4 T H

Scotch Plains Weekend! Scotch Plains Day! Friday October 2nd: Family Movie Night (Addams Family) & Pumpkin Painting: 6PM on the Village Green Saturday October 3rd: FreeCycle Market at Jerseyland Park: Drop off items between 9:30 - 11AM; Shop between 11:15 - 1:15 PM | Sunday October 4th: Scotch Plains Day! Food trucks, family activities, live music! 11:00- 3PM Park Ave & E 2nd Street O C TOBE R 3 RD

Rose Checchio Walk to Wipe Out Breast Cancer 430 Park Avenue - Municipal Parking Lot | 8:30 AM Join friends and neighbors for the annual Rose Checchio Walk to Wipe Out Breast Cancer and support breast cancer research through Play for P.I.N.K. on Saturday, Oct. 3rd. Register in advance for $25 or on the day for $30. Come to walk, come to share community and come to raise funds! O C TOBE R 4 T H

Fan WOOF Day Fanwood Train Station | 10:00 AM Mark your calendars, grab your pup and join the community on Sunday, October 4 from 10 a.m.–12 p.m. at the North Side Train Station, 238 North Avenue, for a morning celebrating the dogs of Fanwood—and the people who love them! O C TOBE R 1 3T H

Scotch Plains City Lifestyle Fundraiser & Watch Party Stage House Tavern, 366 Park Avenue, Scotch Plains | 7:00 PM Join Scotch Plains City Lifestyle in our first fundraiser to support SPF’s own Tami Eagle Bowling in her mission to shine a light on Metastatic Breast Cancer Research. Food and friendship included; Cash Bar; We will stream the #LightUpMBCLive event which is co-hosted by Tami and includes stories from MBC families along with live performances from special guests. O C TOBE R 1 5T H, 1 6T H, 17 TH , 2 3RD, 2 4TH , & 30TH

Haunted Car Wash At Team Car Wash in Westfield Team Car Wash, 215 South Avenue E, Westfield NJ Join in some spooky OR silly thrills with Play Theater’s 6th Annual Spooky Car Wash! Tickets are $25 and include a basic car wash with a side of spooky fun! O C TOBE R 1 8T H

Fanwood 5K Pizza Run & Family Fun Run Fanwood Borough Hall, 75 North Martine Avenue, Fanwood, NJ | 11:00 AM Fanwood 5K Pizza Run returns October 18th with fun for all and a slice at the finish. The race starts and ends at Fanwood Borough Hall, with the 1-Mile Family Fun Run at 11 a.m. followed by the 5K Pizza Run. Organized by the Fanwood Recreation Commission - all proceeds benefit Fanwood Recreation events, parks, and facilities. Register at - https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Fanwood/Fanwood5KFamilyFunRun

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Mount Saint Mary

ACADEMY

Your Journey Starts Now! open house Sunday, October 18, 2026 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm • 12:30 pm: Special Speech by Sister Lisa Gambacorto, RSM, Ed.S., Mount Saint Mary Academy Directress • 12:50 - 1:30 pm: Student Panel in the Sister Lisa Gambacorto Theater • 1:30 - 3:30 pm: Expo and Tours featuring academics, athletics, and clubs and activities in the Gym Register: enrollment@ mountsaintmary.org (908) 912-2231

1645 US Highway 22 W, Watchung, NJ 07069 www.mountsaintmary.org