Somerset Hills, NJ July 2023

Cruising Into Summer

INSPIRE

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!

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.

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

Sun-Kissed and Blissed!

Hey there, sun worshippers!

Hope this letter finds you basking in the glorious sun’s rays, whether you’re lounging by the pool or having a blast on the beach. Ah, summer, the season of adventure! And let me tell you, I am all about that summer life. Who needs fall chills or winter snowflakes when you can embrace the sun-drenched, thrill-seeking vibes of this amazing season?

Now, get ready to unleash the fun with our Summer Fun issue! We’ve got your back, helping you squeeze every drop of joy out of this fantastic season in the Somerset Hills. Who says summer vacation is only for the kids? We’re here to make sure you have an adult-worthy blast too! Oh, and let’s not forget our incredible teachers: This break is long overdue, so go ahead and savor every moment!

In my family, summer is an explosion of exploration and wonder. Picture this: four beach-loving daughters, the sun shining bright and endless laughter filling the air. Can you feel the magic? Building sandcastles, riding those epic waves on boogie boards and collecting seashells is our jam. These precious moments together are like pure gold. As my girls grow older, our sand-burying days may turn into sunbathing sessions, but hey, I wouldn’t mind having a squad of sun-soakers by my side.

Oh, the sizzling summer season! It’s a time when the kitchen becomes a torture chamber and firing up the grill feels about as exciting as pairing socks with sandals. But fear not, my foodie friends! I’ve got the ultimate solution to keep your taste buds dancing: pizza, the holy grail of beloved food! Brace yourselves as our fearless and pizza-obsessed food critic, Richard Hannum, takes you on a mouthwatering quest to discover pizza paradise. This mission required bravery, determination and a burning passion for melty cheese. Get ready to feast!

So, grab that sunscreen, dust off your trusty beach towel and buckle up for a summer filled with adventures, relaxation and memories that will make your heart skip a beat. Embrace the sunshine, dive into the wonders of the Somerset Hills and let this summer be one for the books!

Keep the sunshine shining bright!

July 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

Richard Hannum

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Donna Gioia Volpe, Mensch PR, Liz Polo (Havana Photography), Jillian Spencer

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

JAKE SLOWINSKI & TIFFANY SLOWINSKI, PUBLISHERS @BRIDGEWATER_SOMERSET_HILLS

Lack of inventory continues to fuel the "seller" market in our area, with some exceptions. We have less than a one-month supply of single family homes available. Sales are down primarily because there is a shortage of homes to sell!

If you're thinking of selling you home or buying a new one, please call me. Let's discuss how this market affects your home in particular -- no strings attached!

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.

As a team committed to excellence and efficiency, we pride ourselves on seamless service from application to closing. We also do all our own processing and underwriting in-house to our own guidelines, which makes us faster than other lenders.

WE HELP PLAN AND TRANSFORM YOUR SINGLE MOST VALUABLE ASSET INTO SPACES OF YOUR DREAMS, FOR YOU, YOUR FAMILY OR YOUR TEAM.

WE’D LOVE TO HEAR YOUR DESIGN DREAMS

*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.

city scene

1: Veteran Giants quarterback Eli Manning visited Ristorante MV. 2: Mackenzie Monto won Gold at the 2023 New Jersey SkillsUSA Championships for Restaurant Service. 3: Somerset County 4-H held its annual carnival. 4: The Shimon and Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community Center hosted a triathlon. 5: Pack 150, Den 8 cleaned up litter along Claremont Rd. 6: RVCC student Steven Reffler was selected for the national ALL IN Student Voting Honor Roll. 7: Fiddler's Elbow celebrated Opening Day Weekend.

RISTORANTE MV

SOMERSET COUNTY VOCATIONAL & TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL BOROUGH OF BERNARDSVILLE

DAVID SURKS/CREATIVE EYE

SOMERSET COUNTY 4-H

RARITAN VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

FIDDLER'S ELBOW

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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

8: Antiques expert Nick Dawes made a guest appearance before the Atlantic Visiting Nurse Rummage Sale. 9: Liberty Corner Elementary School art instructor Stephanie Moench received Artsonia’s 2023 Art Education Leadership Award. 10: Chester Theatre Group performed "Ripcord." 11: Somerset County Park Commission volunteers from 2022 were honored during the "Evening of Recognition." 12: Opera Magnifico presented "The Old Maid and the Thief." 13: Kindergarten Scientists explored the school pond with Raritan Headwaters Association. 14: Ridge High School performed "Newsies."

ATLANTIC VISITING NURSE

CHESTER THEATRE GROUP

EDUCATION CENTER

FAR HILLS COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

LYDIA KERRICK

OPERA MAGNIFICO STEPHANIE MOENCH

Slices of Life

Somerset Hills City Lifestyle Food Critic Goes on the Hunt for the Best Local Pizza

ARTICLE BY RICHARD HANNUM

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DONNA GIOIA VOLPE

Cafe Figaro & Pizza

Wondering where to find the best pizza in The Somerset Hills? A couple of months ago, I found myself wondering the same. So I underwent the arduous task of tasting all the pizza I could in order to create this list especially for you.

Overall, I like two kinds of pizza: a classic pizzeria pie and something interesting. Both start as a blank canvas and transform into something special. You’ll find a little of each with this list of local favorites. Each spot hit all my criteria for a classic pie or for thinking outside the box.

Let’s start with my take on pizza: The crust should be a little crispy on the outside with a nice chewy finish. A little char from a brick oven is always welcome, but it should not be burnt. You should notice the taste, but it should complement the sauce. Grandma’s pizza and Sicilian crust are obvious exceptions, but there are few others. Sauce should be made on-site, with fresh ingredients—bonus

points when they are local Jersey tomatoes. For traditional pies, it’s got to be fresh mozzarella melted on top. For interesting, gourmet pizzas, I love experiencing blends of cheese that add layers of flavor.

There’s no shortage of pizzerias in The Somerset Hills: large chains, small chains and local family-owned spots each with their own following, ranging from neighborhood favorites that focus only on pizza to family restaurants with broader menus that give you plenty of options. Located in Bernardsville Centre, Lenny’s Pizzeria & Trattoria has been a local favorite for 28 years, offering a scratch-made menu, handmade dough daily and a secret recipe marinara sauce. Bedminster Pizza on Lamington Road near 202 offers both Mamma and Nonna pizzas. Chianti Wood Fired Italian Cuisine in Bernardsville is a great family-friendly option offering traditional and wood-fired pizzas.

When I started this adventure, I knew I was looking for top-tier pizza, but I didn’t know just how hard it would be to choose a favorite. Several restaurants offered solid pizza, enjoyable to the last bite. But it wasn’t until I visited Trattoria Bolu in Basking Ridge that I felt inspired by flavor. As I mentioned, I like seeing pizza used as a canvas for something interesting, and I couldn't have been more enticed looking over this menu. Everything on the menu takes pizza to a new level, and I had a very difficult time choosing what to try first. Intrigued by a blend of cheeses, I tried the “Boardwalk Blend” and wanted to write home about it: perfect crust, with just the right amount of smokiness from the natural brick oven; a slightly sweet tomato sauce, made from local tomatoes; a rich blend of mozzarella, cheddar and pecorino cheeses. This is one of the best pizzas I had on this journey. I will go out of my way for this pizza.

Trattoria Bolu

Cafe Figaro & Pizza

Cafe Rustica

Richard Hannum

Without hesitation, the most satisfying bite I had on this journey had to be at Cafe Rustica, also in Basking Ridge. Featuring grilled pizza, the #3 offers grilled chicken, pesto, bruschetta tomatoes, mozzarella, arugula and a Parmigiano Reggiano blend. First, you get the fresh, ripe tomatoes, then the bright, herbaceous, homemade pesto and finally the crust— just kissed by the grill. I would have eaten the entire pizza if I could.

If you’re looking for gluten-free options, they are almost equally plentiful. Nicoletta has one of the best gluten-free pizzas I’ve tried in a very long time. Trattoria Bolu, Bedminster Pizza and Chianti all have gluten-free crusts on their menus. Cafe Rustica has gluten-free pasta, and Lenny’s has gluten-free pizza and pasta.

IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER, HERE ARE MY FAVORITE LOCATIONS FOR PIZZA:

Cafe Figaro & Pizza, Basking Ridge:  Familyowned and family-friendly, Figaro is located in the Dewy Meadow Village Mall. Cafe Figaro and Figaro Ristorante Italiano opened in 1999 offering dining experiences at the ristorante and the more casual pizzeria. Their Grandma’s Pizza on a lightly crispy flatbread boasts fresh ingredients and a wonderfully refreshing bite. Definitely give the Chipotle Chicken a try for something a little different. Lightly breaded and a little smokey, this has a nicely balanced flavor.

Cafe Rustica, Basking Ridge:  This homey spot is reminiscent of a tavern, but with more family appeal. I felt almost at home with the warm greeting upon entering. A very friendly and

unassuming atmosphere, welcoming for the whole family or for a date night out. Offering a full Italian menu as well as personal gourmet pizzas, they also offer pizzeria-style pies.

Nicoletta Pizzeria, Bernardsville:  It’s hard to choose here. I still haven’t decided if I like the Calabrese or the Funghi pizza more. The Calabrese is loaded with pepperoni and fennel sausage and is completely satisfying. The Funghi is a mushroom lover’s dream, with a formaggi sauce and marsala-marinated mushrooms; this was certainly the most interesting piece of pizza I tried on my adventures. With pasta and cookies also made in-house, it’s really hard to choose wrong.

Trattoria Bolu, Basking Ridge:  Located in 100 Marketplace Center off Liberty Corner Road, take one step into Trattoria Bolu, and you feel transported to a campfire. The rustic decor, the aroma of the brick oven and the plethora of ingredients, and the warm welcome of the staff provide an instant sense of comfort. Sourcing ingredients from local farms, the menu provides a range of flavorful and natural dishes. Antipasto varies daily, they offer whole wheat and gluten-free pasta and pizza crusts and a range of organic salads and homemade beverages.

Try them all:

2Figaros.com

BedminsterPizzaNJ.com

CafeRusticaNJ.com

ChiantiWoodfire.com

LennysPizzaNJ.com

NicolettaPizza.com

TrattBolu.com

There’s no shortage of pizzerias in The Somerset Hills: large chains, small chains and local family-owned spots each with their own following, ranging from neighborhood favorites that focus only on pizza to family restaurants with broader menus that give you plenty of options.

Trattoria Bolu

Membership has its advantages.

Raritan Valley Country Club, a Troon Privé private club, offers our members access to wonderful amenities including golf, racquet sports, a resort-style pool, youth programs, exquisite dining and a full calendar of social events.

As a member of a Troon Privé Club you also receive exclusive access to extraordinary golf and lifestyle benefits around the world through the Troon Privé Privileges program. Our golf members enjoy access to Troon Privé courses and amenities, opportunities to experience Troon Golf resort and daily fee locations at preferred rates, as well as Cliff Drysdale Tennis. Plus, all members of Troon Privé Clubs receive benefits with Avis Rental Cars, Ship Sticks, Entertainment, Marinas and more.

To learn more about membership and our partnership with Troon, please call (908) 722-2000, ext. 207 or email membership@rvcc1911.org.

747 State Route 28 · Bridgewater, NEW JERSEY · rvcc1911.org

Troon North Golf Club, Scottsdale, AZ

BallenIsles Country Club, Palm Beach Gardens, FL Kapalua Golf & Tennis, Lahaina, HI

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.

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giants in the sky

JOIN THE FUN AS HOT AIR BALLOONS MAKE A MASS ASCENT AND COLOR OUR NEW JERSEY SKIES

ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY MENSCH PR, FESTIVAL OF BALLOONING

There are few moments that are more peaceful than watching a hot air balloon mass ascension, hearing the throaty  whoosh of flames licking up from the baskets as one by one the balloons rise from the earth and drift off to the horizon, their fate determined by the ever-shifting wind.

If you have never witnessed the magic of about 100 balloons rising simultaneously, mark your calendar for the 40th annual New Jersey Lottery Festival of Ballooning, the largest summertime hot air balloon and music festival in North America, which will be held this year on July 28 to 30 at Solberg Airport in Readington.

On each day of the festival, weather-permitting, the balloons begin making their ascent around 6:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.—the times when the air currents are at the most predictable levels for wind speed and direction. From there, they meander the skies over the countryside until the journey ends miles away.

The festival is known for bringing in the best special-shaped hot air balloons from around the world. This year, play I-Spy with the kids and look for these Instagramworthy backdrops for a family photo: a bright-pink 65-foot-tall, 750-pound Lucky Pig; a 70-foottall replica of the first hot air balloon flight complete with a sheep, a duck and a rooster (the first hot air balloon passengers); a pair of 110-foot-tall bumblebees that hold hands and kiss in mid-flight; an 86-foot-tall Darth Vader and a 62-foot-tall Yoda; an 80-foottall, 70-foot-wide old-fashioned alarm clock; and the 100-foot-tall Snowbird penguin.

However, some may argue that the best view comes from above: About 3,500 people take a ride in a hot air balloon at the festival each year.

BEYOND THE BALLOONS

In addition to the hot air balloons, the festival books an exciting roster of performing artists. This year’s lineup includes: Laurie Berkner, a Central New Jersey native who is recognized as the “queen of kids’ music” by  People magazine and was the first recording artist to perform in music videos on Nick Jr.; KC and The Sunshine Band, the disco and funk group that is still going strong after 50 years; indie pop and neo soul band Fitz and the Tantrums and alternative rockers Everclear and Lit.

Laurie Berkner

Fearless Flores Family

Families can also enjoy a nighttime hot air balloon glow, children’s amusement rides and entertainment, death-defying stunts by the Fearless Flores Family, a variety of vendors, comfort food and more.

See the full schedule and buy tickets at BalloonFestival.com

Let the Light Shine Down!

Optician Jerry York Shows You How You Can Protect Your Eyes This Summer

ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIZ POLO, HAVANA PHOTOGRAPHY

Ah, summertime! We have every excuse to ditch the daily routine and have some fun in the sun. But those same rays that warm our skin and buoy our spirits can be harsh on our eyes. Jerry York, an optician in Basking Ridge, gives expert advice on how stylish sunglasses are important allies in keeping our eyes healthy.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF WEARING SUNGLASSES?

Wearing sunglasses that provide 100 percent UV protection can delay many eye diseases, in particular cataracts. The most common cause of treatable blindness, cataracts cloud and yellow the lens of your eye,

leading to progressive vision loss. This is common as we age and treatable by surgery but shielding your eyes from these harmful rays can delay the progression.

Other threats to eye health from UV radiation include macular degeneration, which is caused by cumulative UV damage to the central portion of the retina, and corneal sunburn, which is a painful burning of the cornea that is seen in hikers and skiers since the sun is more intense at higher altitudes and reflects off water, snow and ice. It can also cause skin cancer on your lower eyelid, where there is the most exposure.

Jerry York poses with a 1978 Chevrolet Corvette Restomod owned by Michael J. Badolato, owner of Gallaway & Crane Funeral Home.

Beyond the health benefits, sunglasses are fashionable and can look great with any outfit.

WHAT SUNGLASSES ARE BEST FOR SUMMER ACTIVITIES?

Both Polarized lenses and tinted lenses will protect your eyes in the same way if they have 100 percent UV protection. However, polarized lenses are coated with a vacuum-sealed laminate that filters out glare and are more comfortable. Reducing glare is an important safety consideration when driving—especially on long road trips. People who fish also appreciate how polarized lenses cut the glare off the water surface, allowing them to see a few feet deeper.

WHAT LENSES ARE BEST FOR SUMMER SPORTS?

Polarized lenses also can improve your performance in summer sports, specifically small-ball sports like golf and tennis. Polarized lenses come in brown, gray and green, which all reduce brightness but have individual benefits. Brown lenses, which have an amber hue, give you high contrast; gray lenses do not affect your color perception. Green lenses are the best of both worlds as they share features: They provide better contrast than gray lenses and better color accuracy than brown lenses. So, brown lenses would be good for golfers since the high contrast allows them to see knolls on the green better and would help people who do target practice see with more acuity. Gray lenses, which preserve colors in their natural state, are best for photographers.

Maui Jim High Transmission, a greenish-brown lens that my customers love,

and the Oakley PRIZM line are great for golfers and tennis players.

HOW CAN PEOPLE PROTECT THEIR EYES IN THE POOL OR AT THE SHORE?

The polarized lenses will protect you from the UV rays reflecting off the water. Swimmers should protect their eyes from chlorine and salt water. We make prescription swim goggles that can help keep eyes safe.

YOU CLEARLY LOVE YOUR LINE OF WORK. HOW DID YOU GET INTO THIS PROFESSION?

I began my optical career at 21, working at a large eyewear chain store in the Bridgewater Commons Mall. A few years later, in 2002 I started working in my father’s practice here in Basking Ridge. I bought the business in 2012.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT THE SOMERSET HILLS?

The people in Basking Ridge are wonderful. For example, during and after the pandemic, when supply chain issues made doing business difficult for everyone, my customers were understanding and loyal. I’m very grateful for that.

I live in Bernardsville with my wife, Michelle, and son, Gavin, 14, and believe in serving our community. I am a board member of the Ridge High School Hockey Association and visit the homes of senior citizens at various senior living communities in the surrounding areas to provide optical care.

When I’m not working, I enjoy playing and watching hockey and traveling to watch Gavin play hockey and lacrosse.

See the latest fashions and the services offered at GeraldAYorkoptician.com

"Reducing glare is an important safety consideration when driving—especially on long road trips."

ARTICLE BY ELLE BRIDGE PHOTOGRAPHY BY HERSHEY ENTERTAINMENT & RESORTS

go wild at hershey

THE HERSHEY HOTEL CELEBRATES 90 YEARS AND HERSHEYPARK UNVEILS A NEW ROLLER COASTER

At the mid-point of the summer vacation season, July is the best time for a family getaway. Only about twoand-a-half hours from the Somerset Hills, Hershey is more than a town in Pennsylvania built on chocolate. (Though that in itself is cause to celebrate.)

The town is also home to world-class roller coasters and water attractions at Hersheypark, ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, three distinct Hershey resorts, live concerts and shows, delicious dining options and, of course, chocolate around every corner.

Great Bear

Jolly Rancher Remix

Admission includes all three parks, which offer more than 70 family-friendly and thrill attractions that are placed together so families never have to split up. Tickets also give you access to The Boardwalk At Hersheypark water park and the zoo.

The park has unveiled new attractions this year, including Wildcat’s Revenge, a wood-andsteel hybrid coaster. The addition makes a total of 15 coasters, ranking Hersheypark as home to the most coasters in the Northeast. It features a 140-foot hill, maximum speeds of 62 miles per hour and four inversions, including the World’s Largest Underflip, Inverted Stall, Zero-G Roll and Reversing Downhill Roll.

Have a budding food scientist or a curious kid who loves sweets? Visit the Chocolate Lab at The Hershey Story Museum where they can explore the distinctive qualities of chocolate through playful, hands-on experiences and interactive demonstrations. Guests can try their hand at chocolate pouring and decorating chocolates that they can take home.

Adults can indulge in the non-alcoholic “Flight of Warm Drinking Chocolates From Around the World,” which allows them to sample tastes from fruity African chocolate to Indonesian chocolate with caramel overtones. While the adults are sampling exotic warm drinking chocolate from around the world, kids can get their own mug of warm milk and a chocolate stirring lolly—perfect for transforming their milk into something delicious.

The Museum on Chocolate Avenue is home to galleries that depict phases of chocolate pioneer Milton S. Hershey’s life—his failures and fortunes, innovations, entrepreneurial initiatives, success with chocolate and philanthropy—as well as special exhibitions.

Children can engage with the exhibitions through the Apprentice Program, which uses a discovery guide that prompts kids to look for specific items, answer questions and solve short puzzles. At the end they’ll get a commemorative Hershey coin.

Whitecap Racer

Book a stay at The Hotel Hershey, which was opened in 1933 and is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year. The globetrotting chocolatier commissioned the hotel to resemble one he had enjoyed with his wife, Catherine, on the Mediterranean. Having kept notes of their travels abroad, Hershey instructed the architect to outfit the hotel with a Spanish patio, tiled floors, a fountain and a circular dining room with a good view from every table.

Situated high atop the town of Hershey, the resort is known for its refined elegance, signature service and abundant amenities and is a recipient of the Forbes Four-Star Award and the AAA Four-Diamond Award. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed with free chocolate bars at check-in for the whole family—certainly a foreshadowing of the magic to come.

The hotel features a number of dining options guaranteed to satisfy even the family’s most finicky eater: The Circular (breakfast and dinner), Harvest (farm-to-fork American cuisine), Trevi 5 (Italian grill), Iberian Lounge (cocktail lounge serving lite fare and signature chocolate cocktails), Chef’s Market (coffee, chef-prepared food and decadent chocolate treats) and Poolside (salads, sandwiches, ice cream, bar service). Off-site guests can enjoy The Chocolatier, a full-service restaurant, bar and patio open year-round in Hershey’s Chocolatetown at Hersheypark.

The Hotel Hershey celebrates 90 years.

East Coast Water Works

At The Hotel Hershey, your days will be filled with summery activities from chocolate bingo to s’mores roasts to Hershey character visits and crafts.

Families also can enjoy the outdoor pool complex, which features a family pool with zero-grade entry, two large slides and a kiddie spray deck; an infinity edge adult pool and whirlpool; and poolside cabanas. Additional recreation includes an outdoor sports complex with basketball, tennis and pickleball; an 18-hole putting course; disc golf; indoor pool; fitness center and spa.

A bonus: Hotel Hershey guests receive benefits such as the best price on Hersheypark tickets, free front-gate shuttle service to and from the exclusive resort drop-off location at Hersheypark, extra hours at the Park, free admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story’s Museum Experience.

As you wander the park and engage in the experiences, remember the words of Hershey, who sought to use his fortunes for the good of others: “One is only happy in proportion as he makes others feel happy and only useful as he contributes his influences for the finer callings in life.’”

Plan your vacation at HersheyPark.com .

Mix'd Flavored By Jolly Rancher

PLAY, LEARN, GROW!

Children Build Life-Long Skills and Friendships at Raritan Valley Country Club’s Camp Raritan Valley and Youth Programs

Summertime—the days are long and the possibilities are endless. With good times to be had, kids can also achieve personal growth in the process of play. For the past 12 years, Raritan Valley Country Club (RVCC) has partnered with KE Camps, which directs more than 200 camps at clubs nationwide, to present summer day camps that help kids build confidence, develop leadership skills, gain self-awareness and create lasting friendships.

Camp Raritan Valley, which is open to RVCC members and their guests, runs for six weeks and offers an array of activities for children ages 4 to 12. The days begin with Hello Camp, where campers and staff get to know each other, review the day’s schedule and sing a special camp song. The days end with Goodbye Camp, a time for wrap-up activities and reflections. The camp features theme days, including Wacky Wednesdays and Friday Fundays that turn things upside down and Thankful Thursdays that provide opportunities for giving back like packing lunches for Meals on Wheels. During the rest of the day, the counselors plan activities that get kids moving and interacting with others: Golf and tennis (two recreational group lessons weekly for

each), swimming, arts and crafts, group games, fun with foods, science projects, STEM challenges and special events.

“The camp gives kids a chance to be outside as part of an organized activity in a familiar environment, making social connections, establishing friendships and trying new things that they may want to continue after camp,” says Jennifer Panaia, Membership and Club Communications Director.

The country club also offers a variety of youth programs, including a junior golf program, a competitive swim team and junior racquets programs.

Golf involves a lot of walking, which allows kids to breathe in the fresh air and establish healthy habits while socializing and having fun. Golf also teaches children self-confidence and sportsmanship, helps them work with numbers and gives them experience mastering problem-solving skills. In golf, players gain experience analyzing what they did well and where they can improve and accepting critiques from others. “Children can learn from mistakes to improve their skill in a supportive environment — lessons they can take with them into their daily lives,” says Damien Hamlett, Head Golf Professional at RVCC.

ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JILLIAN SPENCER

RVCC Junior Golf Clinics are offered from May through September for children of social members and both children and grandchildren of golf members ages 7 to 17. “The program consists of coaching, playing and training programs and is designed to teach these young golfers to play the game from a hole-out perspective: Players will start play from 25 yards out and will move back to farther yardages as they are able to maintain a par average per the number of holes played,” Hamlett says. “Our program teaches junior golfers proper etiquette for the game.” More competitive young golfers also have the opportunity to participate in the PGA Jr. League program as part of Team Raritan Valley.

Kids love to swim, but they can get extra benefits from this low-impact activity that boosts mind, body and spirit if they join a swim team. Participating in a competitive group helps children learn teamwork, improves concentration, instills confidence and teaches self-motivation. Plus, it can improve brain function: A groundbreaking study by Griffith University in Australia found that competitive swimmers are more academically advanced than their peers.

RVCC’s Patriots Swim Team is open to all children and grandchildren of RVCC members who are 18 and under. Children of all levels and experience are welcome. “No prior training is necessary. Our mission is to provide a competitive swimming program that teaches the principle of teamwork and good sportsmanship, promotes a love for the sport and advances aquatic skills,” Panaia says.

Last year, the 54-member Raritan Valley Swim Team had an incredible season, going undefeated in seven dual meets against teams from the New Jersey Swimming and Diving Conference.

In addition to providing exercise, racquet sports sharpen coordination, eyesight and motor skills in kids. RVCC’s Junior Racquets Programs include different options for group instruction based on a child’s age and skill level. Sunday Junior Racquets Clinics are offered throughout the season and include tennis and pickleball instruction. The Summer Junior Racquets Programs start in late June with tennis practice, match play and Junior Clinics for tennis and pickleball throughout the week.

Beyond the summer programs, RVCC has a roster of fun family activities. “Summer is when we have our biggest events of the year, starting with our Independence Celebration on July 2, with fireworks, food, DJ, inflatables and children’s activities,” says Panaia. “At summer’s end, we have a back-to-school pool party in August for the kids and a Labor Day picnic with food, entertainment and games.”

To learn more, visit rvcc1911.org

“Participating in a competitive group helps children learn teamwork, improves concentration, instills confidence and teaches self-motivation.”

SERVICES:

• House Washing

• Pressure and Soft Washing

• Window & Gutter Cleaning

• Roof Washing

• Christmas Lights Installation

SHACKSHINE.COM

A sample of recently sold properties in Somerset Hills

As per GSMLS for Basking Ridge, Bedminster, Bernardsville, Far Hills and Peapack Gladstone

events

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

At Home with George Washington’s Morristown Winter, 1779–1780

MORRIS MUSEUM, 6 NORMANDY HEIGHTS RD., MORRISTOWN

This year marks the 90th anniversary of the establishment of Morristown National Historical Park as the first historical park in the National Park Service. The exhibition features Xiomáro’s photography with its innovative use of natural light and his unique perspective of historical sites. MorrisMuseum.org

Into the Woods

CHESTER THEATRE GROUP, 54 GROVE ST., CHESTER

Plots of several Brothers Grimm fairy tales become intertwined in this musical by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine. ChesterTheatreGroup.org

Somerset Patriots Independence Day Fireworks Extravaganza

TD BANK BALLPARK, 860 E. MAIN ST., BRIDGEWATER | 7:30 PM

The Somerset Patriots host an Independence Day Fireworks Extravaganza following their game against the Reading Fightin’ Phils. milb.com/Somerset

Cross Estate Gardens Tour

61 JOCKEY HOLLOW RD., BERNARDSVILLE

Take a tour of the garden—including formal and native gardens, a wisteria-covered pergola and a mountain laurel allee—every Wednesday. CrossEstateGardens.org

Bernardsville Summer Flick Nights

BERNARDSVILLE BOROUGH POOL, 141 SENEY DR., BERNARDSVILLE | 6:00 PM Downtown Bernardsville hosts movie nights every Wednesday. Join your friends and neighbors for a night under the stars. DowntownBernardsville.org

Family Fun Week

NEW JERSEY AUDUBON’S SCHERMAN HOFFMAN WILDLIFE SANCTUARY, 11 HARDSCRABBLE RD., BERNARDSVILLE

Activities include exploring the river, looking for creatures under logs in the forest, catching bugs in the fields or looking for tadpoles and frogs in the pond. NJAudubon.org

JULY 8TH & 9TH

The Doobie Brothers

STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY, 15 LIVINGSTON AVE., NEW BRUNSWICK

For over five decades, The Doobie Brothers have been known for delivering mind-blowing, roots-based, harmony-laden, guitar-driven rock 'n' roll. stnj.org

JULY 18TH & 19TH

Dressage at Red Tail Farm

RED TAIL FARM, 1100 RATTLESNAKE BRIDGE RD., BEDMINSTER | 8:00 AM

Enjoy the skill of horse and rider as Red Tail Farm hosts the USEF/ USDF Red Tail Farm Dressage Show Series. RedTailFarmNJ.com

JULY 22ND

Labrynths – Chanticleer

ST. MARY’S ABBEY, 230 MENDHAM RD., BERNARDSVILLE | 7:00 PM

The Grammy Award–winning vocal ensemble Chanticleer presents their brand-new tour of songs in an intimate setting. MusicSH.org

JULY 22ND

History on the Green

SOMERSET COUNTY

COURTHOUSE LAWN, 20 N. BRIDGE ST., SOMERVILLE

Join George Washington and his French ally General the Comte de Rochambeau on the Courthouse Green in downtown Somerville for a Popup Encampment. Co.Somerset.NJ.us

JULY 28TH - 30TH

New Jersey Festival of Ballooning

SOLBERG AIRPORT, 39 THOR SOLBERG RD., WHITEHOUSE STATION

The New Jersey Lottery Festival of Ballooning is the largest summertime hot air balloon and music festival in North America. BalloonFestival.com

EVENTS CONTINUED Discover a renewed sense of independence at our rental community providing: • Sophisticated surroundings, with free-standing villas • A continuum of care • True, worry-free retirement living with no entrance fee required

JULY 25TH

Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo

MAYO PERFORMING ARTS

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

WELCOME TO YOUR NEW lease ON LIFE. Call or visit our website to learn more and schedule a tour: (732) 733-4568 | TheDelaneyofBridgewater.com 901 Frontier Road | Bridgewater, NJ 08807 TheDelaneyofBridgewater.com BridgewaterLIFE@TheDelaneyofBridgewater.com Want to be featured? Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/SomersetHills 66

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