Somerset Hills, NJ June 2023

The Men's Issue

When My Father Didn’t Have My Hand, He Had My Back

Family is everything, and this month it’s all about celebrating dear old Dad! While I hate to admit it, in our house there’s no denying that my husband is the more “fun” parent. Dads know how to kick back and goof around with the kids in a way unique just to them. They are the ones who teach us how to ride a bike, tie our shoes and throw a baseball. They are the ones who are always there for us, no matter what. There’s an indescribable joy to watching my husband push our girls to be their best in a way that only he can. He is their hero. The picture above is of him and our four daughters.

As someone who lost her father unexpectedly this past year, this upcoming Father’s Day provides a moment for reflection. From my dad I inherited my grit, can-do attitude, love of keeping busy with never-ending activities and the idea that if you’re going to attend a party, then you might as well be the life of it. He also helped develop my spitfire personality with a wicked temper that flares easily but just as quickly dissipates.

This Father's Day, I want to take a moment to celebrate all the men out there who fill a father figure role in someone’s life. This year, treat dad to an amazing steak dinner. You do the prep work and let him grill the dinner. While somewhat of a cliché, many men really do love to grill. Turn to page 32 for tips on how to cook the perfect steak.

Here are a few other fun things to do with your dad this Father's Day:

• Take him out for a day of fun. Go to the amusement park, play some mini-golf or go to a baseball game.

• Deliver him breakfast in bed. Or if you're not much of a cook, take him out to eat.

• Give him a gift that he'll love. This could be anything from a new grill to a gift certificate to his favorite store.

• Spend some quality time together. Go for a walk, play catch or just sit and talk.

No matter what you do, make sure to let your dad know how much you appreciate him. He is a special person and he deserves to be celebrated. Happy Father's Day!

TIFFANY & JAKE SLOWINSKI, PUBLISHERS

@BRIDGEWATER_SOMERSET_HILLS

June 2023

PUBLISHERS

Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@citylifestyle.com

Tiffany Slowinski | tiffany.slowinski@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Patti Zielinski | patti.zielinski@citylifestyle.com

MARKET SUPPORT DIRECTOR

Kristin Kosmoski | kristin.kosmoski@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Lauren Johnson

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Donna Gioia Volpe, Jillian Spencer, John DePrima, Liz Polo (Havana Photography)

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

Proverbs

Real talk!

At press time, April 28th, our local markets have begun to unfold.

Homeowners who have postponed selling their homes until Spring are beginning to bring them to market!

We may be at a crossroads where finally, more homes are becoming available for sale As of April 28th:

In Basking Ridge, we currently have a total of 39 available homes

This compares to 28 active homes just two weeks ago 13 of those homes were listed in the last five days

However, even at 39 homes, we are more than 100 homes short of normal inventory pre-pandemic, keeping demand high

As May ushers in, we will more closely analyze for trends

The Fed has addressed rates on May 3rd, after the issue's deadline

For timely updates on our local market in our "B" towns of Basking Ridge, Bedminster, Bernardsville, and Bridgewater, please visit my website at www.marieyoung.net, choose Market Watch, and sign up for my monthly newsletter. We offer timely, detailed, up to date, local market news as it occurs.

If you're thinking of selling your home, buying a new one, or need a referral for yourself or a friend just about anywhere in the world, don't hesitate to call me!

The West Oak Team

THE PERFECT LOAN FOR AN EXTRAORDINARY LIFESTYLE

Providing outstanding customer service is my top priority. I think it’s safe to say that it shows. I believe every client deserves an above-and-beyond standard of excellence when they’re working toward making their vision of home a reality. So rest assured that you can expect white-glove service at every step when you work with me on your mortgage. I also understand that when you find an exceptional property, you want to call it home as soon as possible. So at Embrace, we strive for 30-day closings.

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WE’D LOVE TO HEAR YOUR DESIGN DREAMS

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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1: Somerset County Vocational & Technical High School Class of 2023 donated 3,476 pounds of clothing. 2: The Easter Bunny spreads cheer at the Bridgewater Commons. 3: Somerset Hills City Lifestyle photographer Donna Gioia Volpe placed in the “Farm to Frame” competition.

4: Downtown Bernardsville hosted over 1,500 people for The Easter Eggstravaganza. 5: Music in the Somerset Hills hosted a concert by The Mirror Visions Ensemble. 6: The Senior Wellness Center at Basking Ridge celebrated St. Patrick's Day. 7: The SPARK club at Saint James School prepared Easter baskets for the staff.

SOMERSET COUNTY VOCATIONAL & TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL

BRIDGEWATER COMMONS

MUSIC IN THE SOMERSET HILLS

DOWNTOWN BERNARDSVILLE

SOMERSET COUNTY

SENIOR WELLNESS CENTER

SAINT JAMES SCHOOL

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @bridgewater_somerset_hills

8: Morris Music Men performed at Fellowship Village. 9: Somerset Hills Pony Club held its first regional rally at Silver Dollar Stables. 10: Teens from Chabad Jewish Center Basking Ridge made matzah with seniors at the Chelsea. 11: Somerset County 4-H celebrated the Food N Fun event. 12: The Shimon and Sara Birnbaum JCC held a fundraiser for the JCC Special Needs Program. 13: Opera Magnifico presented “L’Elisir D’Amore.” 14: Mikel Paris held a house concert at The Ross Farm.

FELLOWSHIP VILLAGE

CHABAD JEWISH CENTER

SOMERSET COUNTY 4-H

OPERA MAGNIFICO

THE ROSS FARM

SHIMON AND SARA BIRNBAUM JCC

SOMERSET HILLS PONY CLUB

*APY = Annual Percentage Yield. APY is e ective as of 03/22/2023. The APY is accurate as of the latest dividend declaration date. Dividend rates and annual percentage yield are subject to change after the account is opened at our discretion without notice to you. We do not impose a limit on the amount the dividend rate and Annual Percentage Yield on your account may change. The dividend rate on your account is determined by the credit union. There is no initial deposit requirement to open this account. There is no minimum balance requirement for this account. Fees could reduce earnings on this account. One account per member allowed.

If your daily balance is $10,000 or less, the dividend rate paid on the entire balance will be 3.92%, with an APY of 4.00%. A dividend rate of 1.00% will be paid only on the portion of your daily balance that is greater than $10,000. The APY for this tier will range from 4.00% to 1.12%, depending on the balance in the account.

Earn 1% Cash Back on up to $1,000 in debit card purchases (point of sale purchases can be either a PIN or signature debit card purchase, including online transactions) each month. Up to $120 cash back per year maximum. Cash back earned each month will be credited to your A nity Cash Back Debit Account by the next month’s statement cycle. ATM transactions, the purchase of money orders or cash equivalents, loan payments and account funding made with your debit card are not eligible for cash back rewards.

This o er is only eligible with an A nity Cash Back Debit Account. The A nity Cash Back Debit Account has no minimum opening deposit and no minimum balance requirements. Cash back o er terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. Cash back earned may be reported on an IRS 1099 Form, if applicable.

NURTURE

At Montessori Kids Universe, we NURTURE your child by providing a warm, friendly environment designed to make our students feel at home. Our staff is trained to encourage your child in choosing purposeful and engaging activities intended to foster self-confidence and independence.

INSPIRE EDUCATE

We INSPIRE your child with a unique Reggio Inspired Art & Science Program, DaVinci Kids. There are no limits as we set course for adventures in exploring art and science thematic activities. The MKU student is urged to investigate ideas, formulate hypotheses and create masterpieces!

We EDUCATE your child using The Montessori Method, the scientifically proven method of teaching by which most early childhood curriculum are compared.

A FEAST FOR THE SENSES

For some, it takes years to find their passion. For Afrim Berisha, it all started from an early age.

Born and brought up in the restaurant industry, Berisha is a man who always has been passionate about food and hospitality. “My career started at a young age in my family’s restaurant. As time went on and as I moved up through the different roles, I quickly picked up the skills required to run a restaurant,” he says.

ARTICLE BY LAUREN JOHNSON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIZ POLO, HAVANA PHOTOGRAPHY

Toca Vez Brings a Mexican-Inspired Steakhouse to Basking Ridge

Afrim Berisha Mixologist Josh Lutzi

Berisha, who is Albanian, credits his success as a restauranteur to his upbringing and the influence of his cultural background. “Albanians are known to be very hospitable people. Service is crucial and makes all the difference in providing a memorable dining experience,” he says. “We want people to have a great time from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave.”

Berisha has opened many restaurants throughout his career — with the promise of more to come. He is best known for the beloved Bistro Seven Three, a lively European bistro in the heart of Bernardsville. His latest venture, Toca Vez, a Mexican-inspired steakhouse, recently opened.

The restaurant, which was formerly known as The Giraffe for over 20 years, and more recently as Vine was acquired by Berisha and Enjoy with Gusto, a successful hospitality group that owns multiple restaurants and hotels. Having worked together in the very early days of their respective careers, the paths of both Berisha and Mick Gjevukaj, founder of Enjoy with Gusto, find their professional paths crossing once again.

Those familiar with The Giraffe and Vine are unlikely to recognize its new iteration: The nearly century-old building has been taken down to the studs and completely renovated inside and out. Exciting new features include custom-designed-and-built light fixtures and furniture, custom-painted murals and biophilic art installations fabricated on-site. Uniquely designed bars on the lower and upper levels and a completely redesigned exposed kitchen are just a few of the spectacular details waiting to be experienced.

“At Toca Vez,” Berisha says, “expect to be amazed.”

While the restaurant is focused on being a steakhouse with all the classic carnivorous favorites, it

also includes a raw bar and offers Mexican-inspired cuisine, such as ceviche, tacos and guacamole. In addition, diners can enjoy libations from its tequila bar with creative, hand-crafted cocktails that extend far beyond the classic margarita, which are served up by a mixologist whose goal is enticing and satisfying the palette.

As far as how this culinary fusion came to be, Berisha says it’s all about offering something new while satisfying demand.

“I’ve been in the area for 30 years and been doing business here for 20,” he says. “There have been steakhouses or Mexican restaurants, but it’s been one or the other — never both together.”

As you peruse the menu, Berisha insists one thing is for certain: “From the service to the food and drinks, you’ll have an exceptional experience.”

EL VAQUERO (THE COWBOY)

• 1/2 oz turmeric-infused agave

• 1 oz Abasolo Mexican Whisky

• 1/2 oz Espadin Mezcal

• 1/2 oz Mandarine Napoleon Liqueur

• 3 dashes of Peychaud's Bitters

Make the agave syrup: Put a 2:1 agave/water ratio in a saucepan. Cut 3 to 4 small pieces of turmeric. Simmer the ingredients until the agave and water have combined. Boil for approximately 10 minutes to let the turmeric infuse into the ingredients. Strain through a fine mesh strainer.

Add all the ingredients to a mixing glass. Add ice and stir drink for 15 seconds to the appropriate dilution. Strain over a large ice cube in a rocks glass. Garnish with a corn husk.

“We want people to have a great time from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave.”

Chef James Dean

Chef James Dean, Afrim Berisha and mixologist Josh Lutzi

GET YOUR MOTOR RUNNING

Michael J. Badolato Shares His Love of Classic Cars for the Benefit of the Community

“I have a passion for cars and love to take my classic 1978 Corvette to car shows whenever I have the chance,” says Michael J. Badolato, co-owner of Gallaway & Crane Funeral Home in Basking Ridge. “My daughter Isla Rose was born 2019, and I knew before she turned one that she shared my love for cars.”

It got him thinking about how other families in the community love classic cars and even if they did not own one, they would delight in experiencing them. In 2021, he launched what has become an annual car show at the funeral home. “Isla absolutely loved it,” he says.

ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN DEPRIMA

This June, he expects about 150 cars — a treat for other area dads who will enjoy reliving their youth and sharing their love of classic rides with their own children.

As a local business owner, Badolato likes to give back to the community. He donates all proceeds from the event to Heartworks in Bernardsville, which is committed to replicating and sustaining the kindness and connection witnessed in the wake of September 11, 2001. The organization rallies community members to help bring hope to people experiencing acute needs from unexpected life situations such as a chronic illness, injury, a natural disaster or grief.

“I am proud to say that the car show grows larger each year,” Badolato says. “The experience has been extremely rewarding for me. I love sharing this hobby with my daughter and being able to give back to the community.”

The 2023 Car Show is on June 11, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at 101 S. Finley Ave., Basking Ridge. The rain date is June 18. Learn more at gcfuneralhome.com .

“I have a passion for cars and love to take my classic 1978 Corvette to car shows whenever I have the chance.”

Focus your retirement lifestyle on wellness, healthy activity and friendships. At Arbor Terrace, no matter your abilities or challenges, we are here to help. This is your turn to relax: You’re home now.

Assisted Living offers residents all the lifestyle perks and amenities you could want, with additional care and assistance so you can have peace of mind. Having helpful caregivers right around the corner means you can get the extra help you need, when you need it, without compromising your privacy.

The Bridges neighborhood offers a unique, supportive environment designed especially for seniors in the early stages of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. Our Bridges neighborhood eases the transition from assisted living, letting you or your loved one maintain as much independence as symptoms allow, with support from memory care clinicians.

The Evergreen neighborhood is staffed with caregivers and clinicians trained to care for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and the related diseases of dementia. We provide seniors not only a safe place to live, but also a lifestyle designed to maximize their physical, mental, and social well-being.

FATHER'S DAY GRILLING MADE EASY

From Selecting the Perfect Grill to Cooking the Perfect Steak, We Have Your Father’s Day Barbecue Covered

Anthony Vacchiano II knows a thing or two about Father’s Day. The owner of Vacchiano Farm in Readington runs the business with his son, Anthony III, 25, with the help of his father, Anthony, 85, who started the farm in the 1960s with his wife, Lucia.

In fact, it’s a whole family affair with the help of Anthony’s children Elizabeth, Josephine, Lucia and Aneillo. “My father is proud to help me, and I’m very proud of the contributions my family has made,” he says. The Vacchianos own a 100-acre farm in Port Colden and one in Readington that covers 375 acres. Its cattle graze primarily on pasture, along with a little bit of non-GMO grain for flavor.

For Father's Day, Vacchiano recommends grilling a bone-in steak. “Our specialty is the tomahawk steak, which is always a crowd pleaser. It makes a statement. It is a high-quality steak cut from the ribeye, which has a higher fat content than other parts of the beef with a long bone,” he says.

Since tomahawks are usually thick,  Vacchiano advises cooking them with a reverse-sear. “Preheat the oven to 300° F and put the tomahawk in a roasting pan for about 45 minutes to help raise the

internal temperature. This helps these thick steaks with bones get the temperature where they need to be,” he says.

Take the steak out and place it on the grill at its highest setting — like 600° F — and sear it on one side for four minutes and then flip and sear on the other side for four minutes. Then, Vacchiano says, check to make sure it’s medium — a 125° F internal temperature, which is what they recommend.

If a tomahawk steak is too much, Vacchiano says they also offer hand-pressed hamburger and chicken patties and marinated chicken breasts, which are also perfect for an early summer BBQ.

To cook a good burger, he recommends placing it on the grill and letting it cook until the top starts to sweat. When the juices rise to the top, flip the burger for a minute, then remove it from the grill.

This month, asparagus and zucchini are in season. Vacchiano recommends slicing the zucchini on an angle about half an inch thick, then marinate the slices in olive oil and balsamic vinegar and place them on the grill just long enough to heat them through. After grilling, return the slices to the marinade and let the pieces absorb the liquid.

ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI PHOTOGRAPHY

BY

LIZ POLO, HAVANA PHOTOGRAPHY

Three generations of Anthony Vacchianos

In addition to the right cut of meat, the grill you use can make the difference between an average meal and one for the history books. “When selecting a grill, you want to look at cost, quality, cooking surface size and features,” says Jason Goldan, owner of Barry’s Appliance in Bridgewater. “There are a lot of ‘throwaway’ grills out there at big box stores, but quality mid-level grills from brands like Weber and Napoleon don’t cost much more and are built to last 15 to 20 years. And higher-end brands like Lynx, Viking and Wolf can last even longer.”

When considering the cooking surface size, Goldan recommends thinking about how much grilling you do. “If grilling is your hobby or if you have a larger family, you should get a larger-sized grill and perhaps more features than if you are a family of two that might grill once a month,” he says.

Since a perfect sear will bring out the flavor of the meat, pay attention to the burner performance. “Entry-level and mid-level grills have burners with lower BTUs, which means the grill will take a lot longer to reach the right temperature for searing,” he says. “Searing becomes easier if you upgrade to more powerful burners with 20,000 to 25,000 BTUs.” Goldan notes that some grills — even entry-level and mid-level models — now have dedicated sear burners.

Other grill features include rotisserie burners, lights and charcoal trays. “Grilling at night with a flashlight is not easy, so the lights make all the difference when it’s dark out,” he says. “If you like to change the flavor, look for a grill that offers charcoal tray accessories. This is great if you are into smoking or using charcoal or wood chips with a traditional propane gas or natural gas grill.”

Of course, once you buy your dream grill, you’ll want to keep it in mint condition. “Maintenance is easy — if you keep up with it. When you let it go it gets more difficult because of the grease buildup,” Goldan says.

He recommends using a good grill brush to keep the grates clean and wipe the outside of the grill after use, removing any sediment that could harm the exterior, like bird droppings or rain, which contains minerals that could corrode the finish over time. It is also important to clean out the grease traps and grease trays. Goldan recommends turning the grill on high to let it burn off residual grease a few times a year. Finally, after every use, slip a good quality cover on your grill.

Not surprisingly, one of Goldan’s favorite activities is manning the grill. “I have young kids, and we love being outside cooking up good meat and entertaining,” he says. “Now that it is warm, it’s nice to have an outdoor living space where we can spend time together as a family, enjoying the weather and eating good food.”

GRILLED ZUCCHINI WITH ZA'ATAR

• 2 lbs zucchini, sliced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp za'atar spice

• 1 tsp salt

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• Parsley, lemon, yogurt, cherry tomatoes, for garnish

Preheat grill to high heat.

In a large mixing bowl, place sliced zucchini along with olive oil, za'atar, salt and garlic. Mix to combine well.

Place zucchini on grill and cook for 10 minutes,

Turn over and cook the other side for 10 minutes more.

Place zucchini in a serving plate, top with yogurt, cherry tomatoes and parsley.

—Barry’s Appliance

“The tomahawk steak is always a crowd pleaser. It is a high-quality steak cut from the ribeye, which has a higher fat content than other parts of the beef.”

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Ethics and Excellence

Two Young Men With an Entrepreneurial Spirit Build a Company Founded on Their Values

ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JILLIAN SPENCER

D’Amato

Paul Mailler and Dylan

To Dylan D’Amato and Paul Mailler, owners of NextGen Plumbing, Heating and Cooling in Green Brook, customer service is paramount — and very personal.

Both young men lost their fathers as teenagers and were raised by single mothers. “My mom worked multiple jobs six days a week to provide for our family,” D’Amato says. “Paul and I watched our moms struggle to pay the bills and keep food on the table. We saw contractors coming in, trying to sell them stuff that they didn’t need, not being transparent about the work, doing jobs that were not done right and charging them all this money.”

The road to owning their own business, too, was hard won for D’Amato, 30, and Mailler, 31. About a decade ago, Mailler’s entire life changed after an automobile accident left him paralyzed from the neck down and in the hospital for two years. Determined to reclaim his life, he learned how to walk and move again with the same grit and energy that fueled him growing up.

“I was always mechanically inclined — building and fixing cars and engines, welding, doing things with my hands,” Mailler says.

D’Amato, who struggled academically in school, sought a path in the trades but was at a loss as to what to pursue. An idea sparked when a friend began apprenticing with a plumber and then started his own business. D’Amato asked to shadow him for a few days to see if he would like the work. He was hooked. He started apprenticing with the plumber who helped his friend. A voracious learner, D’Amato sought employment at places that would build his knowledge and skills.

He worked in plumbing for a new construction company, then a service company. Desiring to see what it was like to launch and run a business, he joined a start-up company. Seeking to learn more than plumbing, he joined an HVAC company and in a few years of

installing boilers, furnaces and air conditioning systems, he became a diversified craftsman.

“I knew this was not going to come easy,” he says. “You have to constantly be learning, teaching yourself, training, putting in the extra mile, working a Saturday, working a Sunday, putting in up to 80-hour weeks.”

D’Amato and Mailler met while working jobs together and bonded over their shared backgrounds. “Paul is a nice, genuine guy and very family-oriented, like me,” D’Amato says. “We work hard, care about our craft and care about the people we work for.”

When the pandemic slowed business, D’Amato was laid off and found himself at a crossroads, unsure of where to go next. But then, something miraculous happened: His phone started ringing with job requests. Newly married with a baby on the way, D’Amato decided to take the knowledge he had gathered and launch his own business, founded on his values, morals and ethics.

“Paul and I always had conversations about owning our own business together. We are like-minded and have the same energy,” D’Amato says. “I told him: If you quit your job, jump in with both feet and help me build this business, we can do this.”

Three years later, they have built a loyal customer base on their foundation of transparency, serving Somerset and Hunterdon counties. “We make sure that customers know 150 percent what we are doing, what they are paying for,” he says. “That is what really catapulted our company: We treat people well. We want to build longterm relationships. We show up when we say we will.”

The company prides itself on using quality Americanmade products and being owner-operated. “Dylan or I answer the phones 24 hours a day, seven days a week and show up at any time,” says Mailler. “We’re presentable, courteous, polite and neat. We go over the entire job on site.”

“What Paul and I created took hard work. We knew nothing was going to fall from the sky. People doubted us. We proved them wrong. And we put that same energy into our dedication to our clients, doing right by our families, our values and our morals.” — Dylan D’Amato

They take care in who they hire and create an environment where employees are excited to come to work. “We are a happy company. We make sure that everyone who represents our company is vetted and trusted and are enthusiastic about being part of our business,” D’Amato says. “Positive energy is important to us. And as a young company, we are not going anywhere. We have the next 30 years to stand behind our jobs and warranties.”

Giving back is important to D’Amato and Mailler. “We were never in the military, but we are patriots,” D’Amato says. “We know the freedoms and the opportunities we enjoy are due to people overseas who are putting their

lives on the line.” NextGen gives a 5 percent discount to active-duty military, veterans, law enforcement and first responders. They also donate and volunteer with Operation Shoebox, which sends care packages to service members overseas.

“What Paul and I created took hard work. We knew nothing was going to fall from the sky,” D’Amato says. “People doubted us. We proved them wrong. And we put that same energy into our dedication to our clients, doing right by our families, our values and our morals.”

Find out more about NextGen at nextgenplumbingnj.com

“Positive energy is important to us. And as a young company, we are not going anywhere. We have the next 30 years to stand behind our jobs and warranties.”

Spring Is Here.

Journey to Wellness

A Male Entrepreneur Seeking Stress Relief Finds His Answer in the Solitude of Water

ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DONNA GIOIA VOLPE PHOTOGRAPHY

It is so easy for men to get caught up in the machine of the workaday world, shouldering the stress that life throws at them, staying tough and pushing through. After a time, though, that mindset takes its toll — physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Ken Kaplan, owner of Quantum Wellness in Bedminster and a corporate attorney, knows this cycle all too well. Although he always prioritized wellness — especially physical outlets such as golf, tennis or running sports — about 15 years ago, he sought a solution that addressed stress more directly. He tried yoga, meditation and acupuncture, but none achieved the deep and lasting relief he desired.

When he learned about floatation therapy at a business networking event, he was skeptical. “It sounded fringy and even gimmicky,” he says. “I thought, ‘I have a bathtub. I belong to a gym with a swimming pool. Why do I need a float tank?’”

However, his curiosity won, and he booked a float session. “I found floating didn't require the kind of effort that I needed to put into meditation — and I reaped more rewards. I noticed my life started to change, particularly in how I dealt with personal and business relationships and stressful situations. I found I was not reacting and fighting so much and was less stressed,” he says. “I found I was a better father, husband and business colleague. I was able to listen better and enjoy things more because I did not have a constant buzz of stress. Floating took everything down several notches.”

He apprenticed with one of the early pioneers of floating and shared his knowledge by opening Quantum Wellness, which offers five zero-gravity flotation cabins, in addition to

other wellness services, such as massage, holistic facials, reiki, cryotherapy and an infrared sauna.

“I wanted to share how floating is a unique environment,” he says. “We spend an enormous amount of attention and energy dealing with external sensory inputs: sound, light, temperature, gravity. People do not realize how enormous the effects of gravity are on our bodies. The floatation cabin cuts out the outside world and frees your brain to just relax. Unlike being in a swimming pool, doing meditation or even being in your bed at night, in a floatation cabin there is no external stimulation — only profound quiet.”

Kaplan and his team are on a mission to be guides in clients’ wellness journeys. “You often hear from men that their relaxation is playing cards or golfing, but that is not true relaxation,” he says. “I have seen businesspeople transform remarkably in a short period of time through flotation. They come in with a certain stress level and now find their lives completely different. They find this therapy pays great dividends in their business life, family life and community life — as it has for me.”

Jake Slowinski, publisher of  Bridgewater City Lifestyle  and  Somerset Hills City Lifestyle is a believer. “As a father of four girls and owner of two publications, to say that I lead a hectic lifestyle is an understatement,” he says. “For me, floating has become a great way to hit the reset switch on the stress levels of my life. It’s a great way to gain clarity and focus while lifting the pressures of everyday life.”

Learn more about Quantum Wellness at quantumwellnessnj.com .

In Love with the Lake

ENJOY THE ULTIMATE FAMILY ESCAPE THIS FATHER’S DAY AT WOODLOCH PINES RESORT

ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI

PHOTOGRAPHY BY WOODLOCH PINES RESORT

The creation of Woodloch Pines Resort is a love story.

In 1939, two high school sweethearts named Harry and Mary made a life-long pact on Lake Teedyuskung, a little-known lake in a dense forest in Hawley, Pa., in the Northern Pocono Mountains. Years later, married and raising a young family in New York, Mary longed for the lake she loved. Then, fate intervened: While seeking an escape from the city, Harry saw an ad for a small resort on a private lake in Northeastern Pennsylvania. It turned out to be Teedyuskung. They jumped at the opportunity to return to the place where they fell in love.  The couple opened Woodloch Pines on their beloved childhood lake in 1958. The resort continues to be family-owned and operated by the Kiesendahl children and grandchildren, who continue the foundation of excellence and warm hospitality. The resort remains a family affair, just as Harry and Mary intended. The family mingles with guests in the dining room to make sure meals are to satisfaction and treat the resort staff as an extension of their family. As a result, many staff members have been serving guests with smiles for years.

Nestled along 12 acres of shoreline, Woodloch Pines Resort offers all-inclusive vacations to generations of families. Woodloch sits on over 1,800 acres and offers three distinct, award-winning properties, including an 18-hole championship golf course and community, Woodloch Springs, as well as sister property The Lodge at Woodloch, an award-winning luxury destination spa.

Families can select from guest rooms — most featuring private balconies overlooking the lake — as well as guest homes with full kitchens, an outdoor gas barbeque grill and gas fireplace.

Golfers will delight at Woodloch Springs’ par-72 golf course, which is set on over 600 private acres and winds its way over 6,579 yards of fern-carpeted forest, lush wetlands and broad upland meadows.

While dads hit the links, kids can enjoy a variety of daily planned activities, including a scavenger hunt, hoops contests, kickball and softball, “Zombie” bowling and activities for the

under-6 set. Families can bond over games like Family Olympics, The Amazing Race, In It To Win It and Family Feud.

Opportunities to explore the natural splendor of the area abound. Woodloch offers a one-and-a-half-mile paved nature trail, plus a three-mile natural terrain trail (bicycles available), a white sandy lake-side beach with swimming and water slide, waterskiing, paddle boats, row boats, canoes, kayaks and sailboats. Other water features include an indoor and outdoor pool; indoor Splash Zone and outdoor kiddie pool.

Exhausted from the day’s fun, each night families can unwind and watch a variety of performances, ranging from live bands, magicians and comedians to a Broadway-style theme show. It’s the perfect culmination to the memory-filled days that Harry and Mary envisioned over six decades ago when creating this woodland-and-lake escape cherished still by so many families.

MORE ACTIVITIES AT WOODLOCH

• 28-foot climbing wall

• Arcade

• Archery

• Batting cages with electronic pitcher

• Bumper cars, bumper boats and go-karts

• Four tennis courts

• Guided Segway excursions

• Horseshoes, shuffleboard, bocce ball court

• Indoor and outdoor basketball

• Outdoor sand volleyball court

• Shooting range

• Nine-hole mini golf course

WOODLOCH WORLD-FAMOUS FRENCH CRUMB CAKE

Crumb Ingredients

• 1 2/3 c granulated sugar

• 4 oz butter

• ½ tsp salt

• 4 tsp cinnamon powder

• ½ c shortening

• ½ c brown sugar

• 1/3 tsp vanilla

• 2 ½ c flour

Cake Ingredients

• ½ c butter

• 1 c sugar

• 2 large eggs

• ¾ c milk

• 2 c flour

• 2 tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp vanilla

Preheat oven to 375° F. Grease a 9-inch x 13-inch cake pan and set aside.

Make topping: Mix butter, salt, granulated sugar, cinnamon, shortening, brown sugar and vanilla. Add flour. Mix until flour is incorporated.

Make cake: Mix butter and sugar. Add eggs, milk and vanilla. Scrape mixing bowl and mix again until ingredients are combined. Add flour and baking soda and mix until combined. Scrape mixing bowl and mix again until batter is smooth. Spread batter in an even layer into the cake pan.

Cover the top of the batter with about 1 inch of crumb, covering the batter evenly. Bake for 40 minutes. Insert a toothpick. If it comes out clean, it is done.

Each morning, enjoy a family-style portion of Woodloch’s award-winning crumb cake — “the best crumb cake I ever had,” according to Violet Slowinski, 6.

The member experience goes beyond golf at Raritan Valley Country Club. It is our rich history, picturesque setting, sense of community, and extensive activities/amenities that make RVCC Somerset County’s premier private country club. As a Troon® managed private club, our members also receive exclusive access to extraordinary golf and lifestyle benefits throughout the world with Troon Privé Privileges!

RVCC is a great place for our diverse membership to gather, develop meaningful relationships and create wonderful memories. Schedule a personal tour and explore our membership opportunities today!

To learn more, please call (908) 722-2000 x207 or email membership@rvcc1911.org.

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

Peony’s Envy Friday Night Picnics

PEONY’S ENVY, 34 AUTUMN HILL RD., BERNARDSVILLE

Bring your own picnic, a picnic blanket and enjoy the gorgeous late spring blooms! peonysenvy.com

Relay for Life

DUKE ISLAND PARK, 191 OLD YORK RD., BRIDGEWATER | 5:00 PM

The American Cancer Society Relay For Life movement is the world’s largest peer-to-peer fundraising event dedicated to saving lives from cancer. http://bit.ly/40iGf9W

Essex Horse Trials

MOORLAND FARMS, 100 LIBERTY CORNER RD., FAR HILLS

Be wowed at this USEA and US Equestrian-sanctioned competition and Peter Chesson Memorial Car Show.  essexhorsetrials.org

Spring Shedfest: Raritan Headwaters Music Festival

FAIRVIEW FARM WILDLIFE PRESERVE, 2121 LARGER CROSS RD., BEDMINSTER | 2:00 PM

Shedfest is an outdoor music festival benefiting Raritan Headwaters Association, the local nonprofit watershed watchdog. raritanheadwaters.org

Kimberly A. Nelson Foundation Sing-Off

BRIDGEWATER-RARITAN HIGH SCHOOL, 600 GARRETSON RD., BRIDGEWATER | 7:00 PM

The 10th annual Sing-Off will showcase the singing talents of local high school students while raising funds for the Kimberly A. Nelson Foundation, which honors the memory of this talented and beloved member of the Bridgewater-Raritan High School Class of 2010 through scholarships and financial support of music programs. kimsway.org

Annelies

THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN MORRISTOWN, 57 EAST PARK PLACE, MORRISTOWN | 5:00 PM

The Somerset Hills Chorus and Rise Up Chorus join together for a performance of James Whitbourn’s oratorio “Annelies,” based on The Diary of Anne Frank musicsh.org

GreenRose Design offers our clients a seamless experience as both a professional design team and General Contractor Concierge Service. We take you from the design to implementation of your dream home. We are committed to the philosophy that you should “Love Where You Live”.

AWARD-WINNING INTERIOR DESIGN

Designing the dream living space that reflects our clients’ aspirations. We have awards from HOUZZ, QUALIFIED REMODELER, & CHRYSLIS.

Meticulous and caring home renovation, from simple design updates to an entire home remodel.

GreenRose is here to be your 360-degree eyes and ears on the process - from permits to completed certificates of occupancy.

Steve Moran || P.O. Box #156, Bernardsville,

JUNE 13TH

Yoga at Schiff

Nature Preserve

SCHIFF NATURAL LANDS TRUST & SCHIFF NATURE PRESERVE, 339 PLEASANT VALLEY RD., MENDHAM | 10:00 AM

Join yoga instructor Meg Carlough Kudrik, former owner of NYC’s House of Jai Yoga, at Schiff Nature Preserve for an easy hike and gentle yoga session. schiffnaturepreserve.org

JUNE 15TH - 18TH

Right to be Forgotten

SIEMINSKI THEATER

CULTURAL ARTS CENTER, 8000 FELLOWSHIP RD., BASKING RIDGE

No one escapes the internet. Intrigue, lies and political double-dealing abound in this compelling new drama about one man’s attempt to erase a youthful indiscretion. sieminskitheater.org

JUNE 21ST

Bruce Hornsby & The Noisemakers

MAYO PERFORMING ARTS

CENTER, 100 SOUTH ST., MORRISTOWN | 7:30 PM

Bruce Hornsby first rose to prominence with “The Way It Is,” his 1986 Grammy-winning debut album.  mayoarts.org

The best time to talk to a Merrill Advisor? Yesterday.

These

with the bull. Ride with Merrill.

JUNE 22ND

Mah Jongg Tournament

SHIMON AND SARA BIRNBAUM

JEWISH COMMUNITY

CENTER, 775 TALAMINI RD., BRIDGEWATER  | 8:30 AM

The $60-per-person fee includes breakfast, lunch, snacks and six rounds of play. Proceeds benefit the JCC Special Needs programs. ssbjcc.org

JUNE 24TH & 25TH

Garden State Comic Fest

MENNEN SPORTS ARENA, 161 E. HANOVER AVE., MORRISTOWN

Do you love Batman, Spider-man, The X-Men, and other amazing comic book characters? If so, you will love spending the weekend at Garden State Comic Fest. gardenstatecomicfest.com

JUNE 24TH

Stephen Kellogg and Brooks Hubbard Celebrate Ross Farm’s 50th Concert

ROSS FARM, 135 N. MAPLE AVE., BASKING RIDGE | 6:00 PM

The 50th concert of the Ross Farm Music Series marks Stephen Kellogg’s third visit to the historic estate. Other Ross Farm favorite Brooks Hubbard, a national touring independent artist from New England, opens the show. rossfarm.org