Somerset Hills, NJ May 2024

The Women’s Issue

Our g oal is to advise our clients and put them in a position of streng th, to make educated decisions that best suit their needs, lifest yle, family and budg et. Our approach to client relationships is consultative, where we take on the role of trusted adviser, rather than merely a contractor or ser vice provider. We primarily ser ve all of New Jerse y from a design/build standpoint and o er design services only in various parts of the country.

SECURE YOUR DREAM HOME WITH OUR PREMIUM SOLUTIONS.

You deserve the perfect home. So when you find it, we’re here to make sure you win the bid. That’s why we’re always pioneering innovative solutions to secure your success.

With our Property Value Certificate*, the seller knows the value on your purchase offer is certified. You can even choose to waive the appraisal contingency, which will help open the door to your dream home.

Count on Embrace for a stress-free and personalized customer experience. And be assured that I’ll provide you with the same top-notch service I give all my clients, making your home-buying journey as smooth as possible.

me a call today, and let’s get you home.

BRIAN WOLTMAN

Branch Manager, NMLS #587190

c: 908.295.4891 ph: 800.333.3004 x3207 bwoltman@embracehomeloans.com embracehomeloans.com/brian-woltman

*This

Who Runs the World? Celebrating Women This May

Dear Readers,

I don’t know about you, but I cherish any chance to celebrate the remarkable women who bring so much richness and beauty into our lives. From our wives and mothers to our daughters and beyond, these incredible individuals leave an indelible mark on our hearts.

With Mother’s Day just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to shine a spotlight on all moms, both biological and the maternal figures who have shaped us. Whether it’s family members, teachers, friends, or neighbors, these women pour their hearts into our communities, leaving an unforgettable legacy.

As a proud mother of four daughters, my home is always buzzing with feminine energy! People often react with humor when they hear about my four girls, either sympathizing with my husband or comparing the challenges of raising daughters to sons. But in my eyes, having daughters is an absolute joy—they’re the glue that holds our family together.

Speaking of my daughters, let me tell you, times have changed since I was a kid. They are obsessed with fancy, customizable water bottles and high-end skincare. Seriously, my fifth-grader’s face cream costs more than mine! But hey, if it keeps them glowing like they’ve found the fountain of youth, who am I to argue?

While supporting local businesses is always important, let’s make a special effort this month to patronize establishments owned by the remarkable women in our communities. As someone who runs a business herself, I understand the dedication and passion these female entrepreneurs bring to their ventures.

They are the movers and shakers, the builders and makers, often working tirelessly behind the scenes. Their silent service and attention to detail bless those under their care in ways that are truly profound.

So, take a moment this May to reach out to the women in your life who deserve recognition. Whether it’s a text, a call, or a virtual chat with your kids, a small gesture can go a long way in brightening someone’s day and reminding them of your love.

Happy May, everyone! Let’s celebrate the amazing women who make our world a better place.

Warm regards,

@BRIDGEWATER_SOMERSET_HILLS

May 2024

PUBLISHERS

Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@citylifestyle.com

Tiffany Slowinsk | tiffany.slowinski@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Patti Zielinski | patti.zielinski@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Carly Mac Manus, Nancy A. Ruhling

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Abby Cole, Donna Gioia Volpe, Jeff Mondlock (Mondlock Moments Media), Liz Polo (Havana Photography), Alyssa Wildrick

CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/SOMERSETHILLS

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

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

Marie Young

Sales Associate

License: 0565487

908.938.2525 Cell

Thinking of Moving?

Think Young!

Real talk!

The real estate market remains decidedly in favor of sellers, as indicated by the chart below. However, it's essential for sellers not to become complacent during this advantageous period. While some homes are selling swiftly and at premium prices, it is crucial to recognize that achieving such results requires careful preparation and strategy. We are dedicated to assisting you in preparing your home to appeal to the widest reach of potential buyers, with maximum exposure, ensuring that they see the true value in your property and are willing to pay a premium for it Call Marie!

Bernards Township, aka Basking Ridge

From the February chart above, average days on market are down 40%!

Based on number of searches vs number of available homes, Realtor com named Basking Ridge the 5th “hottest” market in the entire USA!

At press time, 3/30, the low inventory of available homes continues to insulate our towns from market fluctuations. In Basking Ridge alone, there are still only 12 single family homes available for sale. What’s your home worth? Call Marie for details.

CLASSIC ARCHITECTURE WITH A MID-CENTURY MODERN AESTHETIC

MASTER PLANNED, ORCHESTRATED AND EXECUTED THIS

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

LEARN

city scene

1-14: Somerset Hills City Lifestyle magazine honored its Readers’ Choice Award winners at Delta Hotels by Marriott Basking Ridge.

Photography by MuSen Photos by Karen Kwong

The Asch Team Difference

• Listing your home at the time that’s best for your needs, NOT rushing you to market

Last year home sales hit their lowest levels since 1995!

With low inventory and interest rates set to drop, home values are poised to surge yet again this year.

What kind of agent will help you the MOST in such a strong sellers market?

One that puts your need first!

• We make life easy with customized showing schedules, handling all town red tape & more

• Complete/partial staging services

• The agent you meet will stay with you through the ENTIRE process

• Pricing makes all the difference! Alongside all the conventional analysis, we cross reference with an analytical “deep dive” into the details giving you an edge!

M E E T MS . CHESTER!

Caitlin O’Neill knows what it means to survive—and thrive.

Today, she is on a mission to champion others in the Somerset Hills, show them that life is an ebb-and-flow and inspire them to meet challenges head-on through her “Ms. Chester” blog and her recently launched podcast “Keeping it Juicy.”

O’Neill brings a compassion and empathy to those she encounters, because, well, she’s “been there.”

CAITLIN O’NEILL SHOWS THE POWER OF POSITIVITY TO THE SOMERSET HILLS COMMUNITY

ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONDLOCK MOMENTS MEDIA

At 28, she was diagnosed with Stage 3, HER2+ breast cancer after a self breast exam prompted her to go to the doctor. “It was a very aggressive cancer. I went to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York before transferring to the Basking Ridge location. I started chemotherapy, had a double mastectomy, then had radiation and Herceptin, an IV therapy,” she says. “One of the hardest parts was the radiation, because I had to go every day for 30 days, which was a lot for me physically and mentally.”

Afterward, she tried to return to life as usual. But life was not usual. “After treatment, you transition from being the center of attention to the real world where you have to figure out how to live after you’ve been through all the treatments. I suffered a depressive episode,” she says. “That was eight years ago, but I still remain vigilant.”

Her dedication to being productive kept her going. “I’m a workaholic who loves deadlines and getting things done,” she says. “I worked the entire time I was in treatment.”

O’Neill, who is a Registered Dietitian, became the vice president of operations for a few companies before deciding to strike out on her own, launching MC Marketing & Content and learning as she went. “After going through something so scary, I had less fear. I reflected on things more. My perspective changed,” she says.

Here, too, she thrived and today she hosts events and workshops and teaches people how to grow their business presence on Instagram.

The 35-year-old who grew up in Branchburg took on the mantle of “Ms. Chester” when she and her partner, Kim, moved to the bucolic town in 2018. “I wanted to start an Instagram blog on my daily life: my cancer journey, where he and I were eating and what we were doing in our new town,” she says.

The Ms. Chester blog flourished and today has 15,000 followers. “I don’t call myself an ‘influencer’; I’m just a local gal,” she says. “I try to be as truthful and transparent as possible—something I think is lost in the influencer social media world. I want to make people feel less alone.”

The “Keeping it Juicy” podcast continues O’Neill’s mission of connecting people and giving a nod to the universality of the struggles and successes all people have. “The podcast name reminds people that we are all juicy: We’re not overweight; we are perfect as we are,” she says.

She populates the podcast with followers as guests who share their life journeys in raw, transparent conversations. And, of course, O’Neill takes the lead. “I talk about things that people don’t necessarily discuss: cancer, eating disorders, relationships with alcohol,” she says. “My guests open up about trauma and setbacks, but we always return to how we are thriving now.”

And thriving O’Neill is, sharing her two-and-ahalf acre homestead with Kim and their two rescue dogs, Pepper, a hound mix, and Barkley, a Bernese Mountain Dog and Rottweiler mix. “I love it here. I grew up around farms, and there’s so much greenery in the Somerset Hills. Plus, the people are amazing and down to earth. I love to hear their stories.”

Follow Ms. Chester at Ms.Chester_NJ

Everyday Magic

ARTICLE BY NANCY A. RUHLING | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIZ POLO, HAVANA PHOTOGRAPHY

FOR SHARON MARKOWITZ, GIFT-GIVING IS THE FAMILY BUSINESS

““Our customers become our friends. Many have thanked me for being here and have told me that coming here makes them feel good.”

Sharon Markowitz loves to give presents for every occasion—holidays, birthdays, graduations, births, weddings and every other milestone imaginable.

And sometimes she gives just because she wants to celebrate the joy of the everyday.

Her biggest gift, The Rebecca Collection, has been a Bernardsville mainstay for the last quarter of a century.

The retail shop—it, of course, sells gifts—has something for everyone from babies to their doting grandparents because Markowitz never likes to leave anyone or anything out.

That’s why The Rebecca Collection includes a selection of artworks produced locally and from around the country and a big custom gift area that is stocked with, but not limited to, pillows, coasters, T-shirts, college items and signs.

“I’m a giver,” the New Jersey native and local resident says. “I’d rather give everything to the world than take anything for myself.”

She’s certainly made it her business to do that. The high school drama club, the football team, the cheerleader squad, the local library and public and private schools .  They’ve all been recipients of gift cards, merchandise and gift baskets from The Rebecca Collection.

The shop is named for Markowitz’s mother, Rebecca, who had opened an interior design studio in the area decades ago.

“She was well liked and well known in the community, and people still remember her,” Markowitz says. “She was there for a very long time.”

Markowitz, who describes herself as a “selftaught businesswoman,” decided to open a retail shop shortly after she quit college.

“I didn’t know anything about business when I started out. And I am still learning every day,” she says. “When it comes to retail, you never stop learning.”

Markowitz started from nothing, and she prides herself on only buying what she loves for the store.

Markowitz has kept things all in the family.

Five years ago, Markowitz’s daughter, Bari Marder, became a full-time employee, joining Markowitz’s niece, Jessie.

“I’ve always been very close to Bari, so having her here with me is a perfect situation,” Markowitz says. “All three of us work well together. Bari handles social media, my niece is really good at computers, and all of us work as salespeople.”

Visit The Rebecca Collection, and you’ll always see Markowitz behind the counter seven days a week.

To me, it’s not work,” she says. “My store is my happy place. It has also become everyone else’s happy place. I always have a smile on my face because I love being here and seeing my customers so much.”

It’s the kind of shop where people drop in not only to buy but to say hi.

“

“I always have a smile on my face because I love being here and seeing my customers so much.”

“Our customers become our friends,” Markowitz says. “Many have thanked me for being here and have told me that coming here makes them feel good.”

At some point in the future, there may very well be a second The Rebecca Collection.

“We love the town and the community that we are a part of,” she says.

The Rebecca Collection

Unique gifts and chic accessories.

Browse the offerings at 2 Mine Brook Rd.,  Bernardsville or at TheRebeccaCollection.com.

SO MUCH MORE THAN A GYM!

VIBE Fitness is your source for integrated personal mind and body conditioning. Comprehensive top-tier indoor and outdoor amenities and superior professional staff make the difference.

FITNESS CENTER Stamina, flexibility, and strength for all levels

GROUP FITNESS STUDIO From energetic group ex to mind/ body classes

PERSONAL TRAINING One-on-one or small group, your goals are our commitment

POSTURE TRAINING Better body alignment to reduce pain and increase health and confidence

ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JILLIAN SPENCER

resilience RADIANT

TARA QUINN OF T-BELLA MED SPA SHARES HER JOURNEY AS A FEMALE ENTREPRENEUR

Being a woman business owner comes with its own unique set of challenges and successes. “One of the most crucial pieces of advice is to believe in yourself and your capabilities,” says Tara Quinn, who owns T-Bella Med Spa in Whitehouse Station.  She stressed that as a woman it’s important to recognize your worth and the value you bring to the table. She believes it is important to trust your instincts and have confidence in your abilities, even in the face of adversity.

Self-confidence is huge: Believing in yourself and being able to believe that you can achieve anything goes a long way. It allows you to take risks and push yourself out of your current capabilities and comfort zones.

Quinn, a Physician Assistant, opened her Med Spa in 2022 and notes it’s been a long road to get to this point.

“I’ve been practicing for almost nine years,” she says. “I worked in emergency medicine and oncology before moving into the field of aesthetics full time. I finally decided to pursue my own venture and start something new. Doing this allows me to really focus on my patients and help people individually.”

Quinn stresses that opening a business as a woman presents certain challenges, such as overcoming gender biases and stereotypes, but she notes that this should not be discouraging. She says you should use them as motivation to prove yourself and break down barriers and that every successful entrepreneur faces setbacks along the way.

Quinn says to use these experiences to learn and grow. “Self-confidence is huge: Believing in yourself and being able to believe that you can achieve anything goes a long way. It allows you to take risks and push yourself out of your current capabilities and comfort zones. Gender bias is unfortunately still a real thing, but you can persevere and not allow it to bring you down.”

She stresses that the challenges will make you stronger in your business ventures. Building a strong support network is also essential. “Surround yourself with mentors and peers who believe in your vision and can offer guidance and support,” she says.

With summer just around the corner, Quinn also offers some summer skin routine tips. “Having a great skincare regimen year round is going to make a world of difference,” she says. “It depends on your skin type and your goals. I like starting my patients on a gentle cleanser, then an exfoliating polish, followed by a growth factor serum. You don't want to over-exfoliate and dry everything out, so I don't advise using several products with exfoliating properties.”

But this, Quinn stresses: Use sunscreen every single day, even when it is cloudy.

Although being a female entrepreneur has not been easy, Quinn has no regrets. She encourages women to trust their gut, embrace challenges and build a strong support network. “With determination and resilience, anything is possible,” she says.

“With determination and resilience, anything is possible.”

enchanted TEA TIME

THERESA GAFFNEY CREATES AN ICONIC ENGLISH TEA EXPERIENCE AT SALLY LUNN’S TEAROOM AND RESTAURANT

ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIZ POLO, HAVANA PHOTOGRAPHY

It happens almost every day: People enter Sally Lunn’s Tearoom and Restaurant in Chester and exclaim, “You’re still here! I used to come here as a child but moved away. Don’t ever close!”

For over three decades, the iconic restaurant has become a destination for people across the nation, one filled with vintage bone porcelain china, antiques, little curiosities and memories. Lots of memories.

“My customers are lovely,” says owner Theresa Gaffney. “I’ve known people who have come here for baby showers, had their babies, then the babies grow up and come

here for their wedding showers and then return again for their own baby showers.”

Sally Lunn’s was an established business in Florida for a decade before Gaffney moved to Chester and opened her teahouse in 1991 in a former icehouse, creating an iconic look that is emulated by tearooms across the nation.

Way before that, though, the Gaffney family was known in England for their fine, unique and successful restaurants. Gaffney, who attended art school and for a time was a singer, also was an antiques dealer who had a space in the historic Covent Garden Market in London and sold collectibles in front of the opera house.

Today, she combines this love for fine antiques with her knowledge of food in the tearoom.

The name comes from Sally Lunn’s bread that Gaffney’s mother used to make. (Sally Lunn is said to have fled France during the revolution and settled in Bath, England, where she became known for her delicious brioche-like buns.) And Gaffney carries on the legacy of creating dishes to remember.

“I use the best ingredients, and I go out of my way to make audacious desserts. When people stand in front of our counter, their eyes just light up,” she says. “We are famous for our scones; we sell thousands a week. Most of our staff has been there for over a quarter-century, which lends continuity in our kitchen.”

When tea was first introduced in England, it was so precious that only the wealthy had it—and locked it in tea caddies, Gaffney notes. “When people came to visit, the lady of the house would unlock it to make the tea,” she says. “The tradition of having tea with little desserts and tea sandwiches began with the Duchess of Bedford, who was a friend of Queen Victoria.”

Sally Lunn’s continues this tradition in high style. Before pouring their tea from the teapot, customers often turn over their cups to learn the brand of china they will be sipping from. “Then they’ll say, ‘Oh, this is Wedgwood’ or ‘This is Royal Doulton.’ Things definitely taste completely different when you’re drinking out of a fine antique bone china,” Gaffney says.

In addition to tea sandwiches, Sally Lunn’s offers a number of other delicacies created in the kitchen from scratch with the finest ingredients, such as Cottage Pie, Cornish pastries, sausage rolls, Scotch eggs and Chicken Pot Pie.

Gaffney chuckles when talking about her invention: Cockney Pie. “In the early days, people would come in and ask for pizza— and I was like, ‘I’m not making pizza.’ But I created a similar dish, which has tomato sauce, fresh basil and roasted red peppers,” she says. “It’s funny because people will say, ‘We had the Cockney Pie in London and it wasn’t as good as yours.’ This makes me smile, since it’s only served here.”

The menu also has a variety of vegetarian dishes—the ratatouille is especially popular—and Gaffney makes her own chicken salad, which is served on homemade croissants.

The restaurant is popular for holidays, like Mother’s Day, and for special occasions. But at Sally Lunn’s, every day can be a special occasion. Men, too, come in and marvel at the robust menu, Gaffney says.

Gaffney lends her artistic flair to the tearoom by decorating for the seasons and holidays. “You don’t come here and just eat a meal,” she says. “It’s an experience.”

Book a table at SallyLunns.com.

Theresa Gaffney

Michael Bishop

coronation chicken salad

• Two good-sized chicken breasts

• 1 ripe fresh mango

• 1 apple (we use Fuji)

• 1 celery stalk (preferably an interior stalk)

• Half a medium-sized red onion

• ¼ c golden raisins

• ½ c quality mayonnaise

• 2 tbsp sour cream

• 2 tbsp curry powder

• 2 tbsp apricot preserves or 1 tsp honey

• Salt and pepper

• Bread of choice (naan, white bread, pita)

Poach chicken breasts.

Dice or shred as you prefer.

Dice mango and apple into pea-sized pieces.

Chop celery and onion into tiny pieces.

Mix all ingredients with mayo, sour cream, curry powder, preserves, salt and pepper. Mix well and let it sit for an hour so that the curry powder can work its magic. Serve in warm bread of your choice and with a crisp baby green salad.

RESTORE YOURSELF

FELLOWSHIP VILLAGE OPENS ITS DOORS TO THE COMMUNITY FOR FITNESS AND WELL-BEING

Exercise is a girl’s best friend.

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, women reap a variety of benefits when they exercise regularly: It lowers blood pressure, reduces cholesterol and cardiovascular disease, prevents diabetes and improves mood and cognitive function.

Plus, it gives you that awesome release of endorphins—that “runner’s high” that leaves you feeling happy, relaxed and ready to tackle the world.

ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DONNA GIOIA VOLPE

Carole Clausen, senior director of wellness at Fellowship Village, a leading aging services provider part of the FellowshipLIFE system, has seen many transformations. “Exercise has so many benefits. It’s holistic: Your body, your mind and your soul are interconnected,” she says.

VIBE Fitness, which is open to the public with a monthly membership, offers state-ofthe-art fitness equipment from Life Fitness, Hammer Strength and Peloton. “Opening to the public was the vision of our CEO Brian Lawrence to align the aging community in Basking Ridge with the services that we

offer on campus: VIBE Fitness, Thrive Med Spa and VIBE Day Spa & Salon that will open this spring,” she says. “We want the community to come on campus so our residents can continue to be a part of the surrounding town and interact with their neighbors who live in Basking Ridge.”

At VIBE Fitness, residents participate with community members in exercise and yoga classes designed to build strength and flexibility, with seated and standing options. “We partner with Les Mills to offer high-end and high-level fitness classes for Fellowship Village and its surrounding community,” Clausen says.

“EXERCISE HAS SO MANY BENEFITS. IT’S HOLISTIC: YOUR BODY, YOUR MIND AND YOUR SOUL ARE INTERCONNECTED.”

Staff takes a personal approach to each member’s fitness and beauty goals. “Nothing is cookie-cutter. Whether someone comes on campus for VIBE Fitness, Thrive Med Spa or the VIBE Day Spa & Salon, we do a consultation to understand their priorities for their health and well-being to formulate programs designed for their needs,” Clausen says.

How we look and how we feel are intimately connected. Current research has shown that activities involved in

maintaining beauty have a positive influence on our emotional and physical well-being. These positive internal experiences can result in decreased stress, give your self esteem a boost and prompt you to be more social.

And with aging, sometimes we need a little help. “At Thrive Med Spa, we focus on conservative treatments, such as Botox, Morpheus8 Microneedling with radiofrequency and Emface, a non-surgical treatment that stimulates the nerves and

contracts the muscles in the face, giving it a subtle lift,” says Jennifer Reickman, director of aesthetics and beauty at Fellowship Village. “Emsculpt Neo also creates muscle in areas of the body that are hard to contract as we get older. It’s like doing about 28,000 crunches in 28 minutes in one treatment.”

Other treatments include IV vitamin therapy for when people are feeling rundown and Emsella, which uses high-intensity focused electromagnetic technology to cause deep pelvic floor muscle stimulation to improve control of the pelvic floor muscles and bladder to help with incontinence.

The new VIBE Day Spa & Salon offers massage, manicures and pedicures, medical-grade wig treatments and extensions, and stylists and barbers—a perfect way to celebrate the hard work you’re doing for your wellness.

Learn more at FellowshipLifeInc.org/ Fellowship-Village.

ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALYSSA WILDRICK

NURTURING YOUNG INNOVATORS

FAR HILLS COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL’S NEW LEARNING COMMONS TEACHES CHILDREN THE PRACTICAL VALUE OF TECHNOLOGY AND TEAMWORK

Two years ago, Far Hills Country Day School took a bold step: Incorporating a STEAM program that integrates with the curriculum from preschool to the eighth grade.

At its heart is the Learning Commons, a large space equipped with the latest technology that opened in September 2022, thanks to the generosity of donors through the school’s Capital Campaign efforts.

This type of education gives students the creativity to build upon what they already are seeing in the real world.

A STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) program helps students better understand these subjects and how they interrelate with each other. “This type of education gives students the creativity to build upon what they already are seeing in the real world, to create their own inventions and ensure that when they make mistakes they persevere,” says Brenna Wagner, who directs the school’s STEAM program.

Wagner and Georgia Zaiser, Head of School, discuss the importance of STEAM in a progressive curriculum.

WHY IS A STEAM PROGRAM IMPORTANT IN EDUCATION?

Zaiser:  Prioritizing STEAM into the curriculum was necessary to further align with our school’s mission. Introducing STEAM programs at an early age empowers students to navigate the increasingly digital landscape with confidence and competence. A STEAM education fosters a hands-on learning approach that transcends traditional classroom boundaries. Through experiential learning opportunities, students are actively engaged, stepping out of their seats to immerse themselves in practical applications of theoretical concepts. This classroom engagement not only deepens their comprehension but also provides them with a tangible sense of value in their collaborative efforts within small group settings.

Wagner:  We are building leaders and visionaries. I recently attended the Early Childhood STEM conference in Pasadena, Calif. We discussed how starting STEAM as early as preschool is essential, especially now in our digital age. Students can learn the basics of skills like graphing, tables and geometry at a young age, which will help them be successful later on in their education. The multifaceted approach of STEAM cultivates an array of skills vital for holistic, academic and personal development. Beyond academic proficiency, students emerge from STEAM classes with enhanced critical thinking abilities, honed leadership qualities, adeptness in teamwork and a heightened adaptability to diverse challenges.

TELL US ABOUT THE LEARNING COMMONS.

Zaiser: The Learning Commons is a state-of-theart technology space. The $1.2 million we raised was designed to support a STEAM curriculum that would span all ages and serve as a space that all students, faculty and staff could utilize. Sitting in the heart of our school, the Learning Commons offers an interactive and flexible space where students and teachers can problem-solve and collaborate. In addition to the learning space created, we have two additional breakout rooms where meetings and brainstorming sessions alike take place.

HOW DOES THE STEAM PROGRAM INTEGRATE WITH YOUR CURRENT CURRICULUM?

Zaiser:  At Far Hills Country Day School, we seek to provide the ideal platform for fostering creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Our motto is “In Virtute Multi Ascensus,” which translates as “There are many degrees of excellence.” The STEAM program allows teachers to customize for a student’s abilities and needs in a supportive way.

Wagner:  We take an interdisciplinary approach. I make sure that what I’m teaching is cross-curricular and collaborate with other teachers. For example, students in Grade 3 are doing a project on states. I’m teaching the students how to create avatars and write a script for the student’s avatar to discuss their assigned state. I have also introduced websites like Canva that both the Technology and Marketing and Communication Departments have decided are essential for the students going forward.

Through experiential learning opportunities, students are actively engaged, stepping out of their seats to immerse themselves in practical applications of theoretical concepts.

WHAT MIGHT STUDENTS EXPECT TO LEARN IN EACH GRADE?

Wagner:  Coding skills are involved throughout the program. Starting in kindergarten, students use robots to code. Around Grades 2 and 3, they use Chromebooks and iPads to block code online with websites like Codable and Tynker. By Grades 3 and 4, they do block coding to code a robot to follow instructions and interact with them. We also have done some Rube Goldberg engineering, which is very hands-on. Students use different materials that we provide in the Learning Commons to create their own inventions.

In Grades 4 and 5, the students use Google Workspace. They learn how to make Google Slides and Google Documents resulting in maximizing the use of Google Classroom in the most collaborative way among their peers and teachers. In Grades 5 and 6, students use Scratch, and additionally, in Grade 6, they learn 3D printing. In Grades 7 and 8, the students use the 3D printer, use block coding and do robotics.

Since the implementation of the STEAM program, there has been a visible rise in both leadership acumen and collaborative teamwork skills.

Older students are tasked with coming up with solutions for real-world problems. For example, we had students create a device to capture an imaginary troll. They collaborated on designing box traps and mousetraps using math and science skills combined with materials like boxes, strings and pipe cleaners. Group projects like this teach them how to have disagreements and compromise. It’s wonderful to see them light up with an idea.

SINCE THE PROGRAM WAS INITIATED, WHAT ARE THE CHANGES YOU HAVE SEEN IN THE STUDENT BODY?

Zaiser: Since the implementation of the STEAM program, the evolution within the student body has been truly remarkable. Notably, there has been a visible rise in both leadership acumen and collaborative teamwork skills. It's been rewarding to witness students embracing these qualities, as they not only excel within our program but also emerge as confident leaders poised for success in high school and beyond. The STEAM curriculum serves as a robust foundation, empowering our students to navigate challenges with resilience and to inspire others through their innovative thinking and collaborative spirit.

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

These markets — they’re a wild ride. But we’ve seen it before. And with a Merrill Advisor, you can do more than just hang on — you can charge forward. Backed by world-class insights. Cutting-edge technology. And a personalized plan to help you thrive. Don’t just ride it out. Ride with the bull. Ride with Merrill.

Karen A. Ostarticki Wealth Management Advisor

908.719.6418

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management

1 Crossroads Drive Building One Bedminster, NJ 07921

fa.ml.com/new-jersey/bedminster/Karen-Ostarticki

SYMPHONY OF success

LAURA SABIA SHOWS WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS

HOW TO UNLOCK SUCCESS SECRETS

ARTICLE BY ELLE BRIDGE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABBY COLE

Laura Sabia is an entrepreneur with a passion for creating businesses that make life better. Currently, she operates three Pure Barre studios, Club Sweat fitness and publishes two magazines,  Greenwich City Lifestyle and Darien New Canaan City Lifestyle, in Connecticut. Her latest venture includes an online course for female entrepreneurs and the empowering book You Can Thank Me Later.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO ENTER THE BUSINESS WORLD AND WHAT IS THE FORCE BEHIND YOUR PASSION FOR DRIVING BUSINESS EVOLUTION?

Sabia: My journey was sparked by my passion for a brand that I truly loved: Pure Barre. I never intended to be an entrepreneur and start all these business ventures. They just continued to happen as I evolved and created and repeated processes to scale.

HOW DO YOU BELIEVE WOMEN'S LEADERSHIP IS UNIQUELY POSITIONED TO INFLUENCE AND SHAPE THE FUTURE OF BUSINESS?

Sabia:  Women’s leadership brings empathy, resilience and collaboration to the business landscape. Fostering diverse and inclusive environments amplifies different perspectives, creating a rich group of ideas that enhances business strategies and paves the way for an equitable future.

CAN YOU SHARE A SIGNIFICANT MILESTONE OR ACHIEVEMENT IN YOUR CAREER THAT DEMONSTRATES YOUR IMPACT ON BUSINESS EVOLUTION?

Sabia: A milestone is the growth of Pure Barre studios, Club Sweat and City Lifestyle magazines. These ventures reflect dedication to health, wellness and community. Initiatives like the online course and  You Can Thank Me Later underscore a commitment to empower fellow female entrepreneurs. So many people will ask how I did it or what advice I can give them on a regular basis. I am hopeful that my book will bring positive change and hopefully save others from making the same mistakes that I made along the way. I hope it will be helpful to others as they begin their journey.

Women’s leadership brings empathy, resilience and collaboration to the business landscape.

HOW DO YOU SEE DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION CONTRIBUTING TO BUSINESS INNOVATION AND GROWTH?

Sabia: True innovation thrives on diversity, equity and inclusion. Embracing diverse perspectives creates an environment where every voice is a melody in the business orchestra. My favorite line is that we all can’t be the main course at the dinner party. Someone on the team has to be the napkins and the dessert. If we all had the same skill sets we would never grow. This is the same with people: If the team is filled with everyone who is the same, we will just stay stagnant. This approach fuels business growth while cultivating a sense of belonging and shared purpose.

HOW DO YOU APPROACH DECISION-MAKING AND PROBLEMSOLVING IN YOUR LEADERSHIP ROLE, ESPECIALLY IN THE FACE OF CHALLENGES?

Sabia: Approaching challenges is a combination of prioritization and delegation. Our leadership team created the “scale of fires,” which ensures efficient problem-solving from everyone onboard, focusing on solutions aligned with overarching goals—a strategic composition in leadership. For example, if the building is on fire at 3 a.m., call the fire department first then call the manager. Having strong systems in place and teaching people how not

only to think for themselves but also to expect it as part of their role is pivotal.

WHAT IS A SPECIFIC INITIATIVE OR PROJECT YOU’VE LED THAT HAS HAD A TRANSFORMATIVE IMPACT ON YOUR ORGANIZATION OR INDUSTRY?

Sabia:  The digital pivot of Club Sweat amid the COVID-19 pandemic showcased resilience and ability to keep going when we were physically not allowed to operate. Instead of panicking, the team found innovative solutions, now expanding the business reach globally. This initiative is a transformative crescendo, proving that embracing change leads to symphonies of success. The best part: We are helping more people live healthier lives with our digital product than we could ever imagine doing in our own community.

WHAT STRATEGIES DO YOU EMPLOY TO FOSTER COLLABORATION AND TEAMWORK WITHIN YOUR ORGANIZATION, PARTICULARLY ACROSS DIVERSE TEAMS?

Sabia: Personality tests like the Cultural Index play a pivotal role. Understanding each team member’s strengths creates great collaboration but also happier employees. Celebrating diversity in work styles creates a harmonious environment where everyone feels valued—a key to business success.

HOW DO YOU LEVERAGE TECHNOLOGY AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION TO DRIVE BUSINESS EVOLUTION AND STAY AHEAD IN A RAPIDLY CHANGING LANDSCAPE?

Sabia: Leveraging virtual assistants and ChatGPT streamlines processes, enhances productivity and ensures staying agile. Embracing digital transformation ensures staying at the forefront of industry trends—a critical component of staying ahead.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO WOMEN WHO ARE ASPIRING TO LEADERSHIP ROLES IN TRADITIONALLY MALE-DOMINATED INDUSTRIES?

Sabia: Develop a thick skin, stop caring excessively about others’ opinions and surround yourself with positive influences. There’s room for everyone at the table; you just have to pull up a seat.

HOW DO YOU PRIORITIZE AND ADVOCATE FOR WORK-LIFE INTEGRATION AND WHAT MEASURES DO YOU TAKE TO ENSURE YOUR WELL-BEING AND THAT OF YOUR TEAM?

Sabia: Setting boundaries, encouraging breaks and fostering a culture that values professional and personal lives create a harmonious balance. Implementing flexible schedules and promoting mental health initiatives ensures the well-being of myself and my team—a combination of holistic success.

Visit  embosslife.co  or follow Laura Sabia on Instagram at @lauralabs for an immersive experience in entrepreneurship and empowerment.

• House Washing

• Pressure and Soft

• Window & Gutter

• Roof Washing

• Christmas Lights Installation

realty report

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Card Readings

Lupa Apothocary, 21 Olcott Square, Bernardsville | 12:00 PM

Discover what your future holds every Friday from noon to 5 p.m. Book an appointment to guarantee a slot. LupaApothecary.com

MAY 2ND

Tiny Tots

New Jersey Audubon’s Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary, 11 Hardscrabble Rd., Bernardsville | 11:00 AM

New Jersey Audubon welcomes a new generation of budding naturalists to Lorrimer Sanctuary for this “grown-up and me” style program. NJAudubon.org

MAY 4TH - JUNE 30TH

Form and Color in Nature

Frelinghuysen Arboretum, 353 E. Hanover Ave., Morristown

Solo exhibition of art by Lisa Madson (who was featured on the pages of City Lifestyle) composed from direct printing of elements of nature, such as leaves, ferns, flowers and ocean life. Natural-World-Studio.com

MAY 4TH

Bridgewater Beerfest

Shimon and Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community Center, 775 Talamini Rd., Bridgewater | 4:00 PM

The Beerfest raises money for programs for people with special needs. Enjoy over 40 beers,  tequila and bourbon tastings,  live music, food trucks, door prizes and a beer pong tournament. https://bit.ly/48Tmaue

MAY 4TH

Flower Hour

Somerset County Library, 1 School St., Peapack and Gladstone | 1:00 PM

Join Brenda Liberti from Bee Lee Blooms for a fun Flower Hour event. Learn how to arrange flowers and then make your own arrangement to take home with you. Perfect for the spring and Mother's Day. sclsnj.org

MAY 4TH

Somerset Hills Chorus – Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas

St. Mary’s Abbey, 230 Mendham Rd., Morristown | 7:00 PM

Music in the Somerset Hills chorus performs “Dido and Aeneas,” an opera written by the English Baroque composer Henry Purcell.

MAY 4TH

Annual Native Plant Sale

Scherman Hoffman Wildlife Sanctuary, 11 Hardscrabble Rd., Bernardsville | 10:00 AM

View a wide selection of native wildflowers in a variety of sizes and prices, as well as vendors and information booths. Come early as favorite plants sell quickly. NJAudubon.org

MAY 9TH

Sapphires & Sequins Fashion Show

Hamilton Farms Golf Club, 1040 Pottersville Rd., Gladstone | 5:30 PM

Stylist Leslie Patrizio promises to dazzle fashion lovers with spring and summer runway looks from local boutiques. SapphiresAndSequins.org

MAY 13TH

Move, Sing & Play!

Far Hills Country Day School, 697 U.S. 202, Far Hills

Far Hills Country Day School hosts free monthly Family and Me Music Classes. Come with your child to sing, move to songs and play instruments. fhcds.org

MAY 16TH

Above Somerset Hills Aerial Video and Photography

Somerset Hills Art Collective, 27 Rte. 202, Far Hills | 6:30 PM

Somerset Hills Art Collective introduces artist Mike Innella with his “Above Somerset Hills Aerial Video and Photography” exhibition.  SHACgallery.com

Creating Healthy, Beautiful Smiles

Your oral health affects your whole body, and our team is passionate about keeping our patients healthy all over!

From routine check-ups and dental cleanings to restorative treatments like dental implants, crowns to cosmetic treatments like veneers and whitening, Proud To Smile is dedicated to creating healthy, beautiful smiles.

events

MAY 17TH

Barcelona & Beyond

North Branch Library, 65 Halstead St., Clinton | 1:00 PM

Somerset Hills City Lifestyle photographer David Surks presents his photography and answers questions by attendees. hclibrary.us

MAY 26TH

Peony’s Envy Friday Night Picnics

Peony’s Envy, 34 Autumn Hill Rd., Bernardsville

Celebrate the warm weather among the flowers. Bring your own picnic, a picnic blanket and enjoy the bloom! peonysenvy.com

Experience life at Arbor Terrace

MAIN STREET MINUTE

Your Guide to What's New and Exciting in Bernardsville

ARTICLE BY OLIVIA MANNING

This May, we shine a spotlight on the vibrant and unique women-owned businesses that make up Bernardsville’s downtown district. From boutique shops to jewelry stores, these entrepreneurial powerhouses run their businesses with the community in mind:

Top: Alex “Teggy” French (Teggy French), Margery St. John and Angela Casiero (Boutique Calia), Briyon Librizzi (The Dappermen’s Den), Jessica Walker (J.Walker Salon Group), Anne Ferrante (Realtor, Sotheby’s)

Second Row: Sharon Markowitz (The Rebecca Collection), Megan Schroeder (August Designs), Gina Barbara (Lupa Apothecary)

Third Row: Christina Gianni (B Boutique), Carolyn Fahey (Fahey Realtors), Sweety Janani (Kumon Math & Reading Center of Bernardsville)

Bottom Row: Alexandra Daras (The Pretty Pink Rooster), Jennifer Liming (Realtor, Sotheby’s), Tara Vitollo (Olcott Squared)

Score an incredible brunch at The Red Horse, Bistro 73 or another favorite local spot, then spend the day shopping, followed by a movie at the historic Bernardsville Cinema.

As Mother’s Day approaches, honor the special women in your life with Bernardsville Bucks: a unique local digital gift card, redeemable at many of our women-owned businesses. Purchase at MainStreetBernardsville.org.