Cover Artwork By: Mary Kooi Bernards-Ridge Edition Bernardsville, Basking Ridge, Bedminster, Mendham, Far Hills, Peapack/Gladstone, Chester, Morristown FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 VOLUME XCIII VALENTINE'S DAY GIFT INSPIRATIONS Love Your Local Businesses! COMMUNITY NEWS Impact100 Garden State: Empowering Change, One Grant at a Time THE ART OF LIVING 3 Keys to Living a More Balanced and Rewarding Life PLAY TO WIN Details on page 6!
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THE BERNARDS-RIDGE CONNECTION PAGE 6 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 Smooth as Glass Page 16 Buy-Rite Overhead Doors Page 24 Cadicina Law Page 35 Greater Somerset County YMCA Page 42 Lawyer’s View: Fox Rothschild Page 8 Community News: Impact100 Garden State Page 10 Mary Kooi Mary proudly hails from the Chicago area and happily transplanted to Summit in 2000. She works in the textile and furniture industry as an outside sales representative, servicing the interior design community. Mary has been a student of art most of her life, minoring in Art at St. Joseph’s College in Indiana and earning a BFA in textiles from the Art Institute of Chicago. Mary continues to study under the wonderful instruction of Valeri Larko at the Visual Art Center of New Jersey in Summit and has had the opportunity to travel to Maine, Maryland, the Cape, Italy and Spain with fellow artists to find inspiration for canvases similar to the one displayed here. Mary’s paintings reflect her love of light and color, particularly as reflected in outdoor scenes. Please visit my website to view further paintings at www.artbymarykooi.com. THE CONNECTION MAGAZINES TEAM Donna Reina, Georgeann Agaisse, Heather Silver, Patty Herman, Alicia Singman Somewhere in this Magazine is aFAKE AD. Spot it and send your answer, along with your name, city or town and phone number to : spotthefake@theconnectionsnj.com or play online at theconnectionsnj.com TheWINNERof the Defined Designed Fake Ad in our November issue is Merry Leblond of Mendham. She won a gift from Advanced Frequency Spa in Hillsborough. SPOT THE FAKE! Disclaimer: The views expressed in the articles are the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Connection Magazines. We publish all advertisements, editorials and other content in good faith. We cannot guarantee or accept liability for the accuracy of the claims made by the advertisers. ON OUR COVER Highlights... Welcome to the Bernards-Ridge Edition; our first issue of the New Year! As we bid farewell to last year, we extend our warmest wishes for a happy New Year filled with abundant blessings and prosperity. In this issue, we invite you to explore the vibrant local businesses in our community. These dedicated entrepreneurs are eager to bring you their unique products and services. By supporting them, you not only contribute to the growth of our neighborhoods but also foster a sense of unity and togetherness. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, our magazine features a special page dedicated to helping you find the perfect gifts for your loved ones. Discover creative ideas and thoughtful gestures that will make this day of love truly memorable. As Easter approaches early this year, we encourage you to take a moment to reflect on Faith, Love and Joy. Our magazine o ers a curated selection of places where you can find solace and inspiration during this sacred time. Impact100 Garden State is calling all amazing women to join them on their journey towards empowering women’s philanthropy. Read our Community News article to discover how a group of women who donate their time and money to create grants for nonprofits can make such a di erence in the lives of underserved populations. Celeste Campos, vice president of Impact100, shares some of the projects they have worked on recently-truly admirable! What better way to start the New Year than to, “Get O Balance!” Read The Art of Living column by Barry Farber, a best-selling author and an award-winning radio and television host. Clearing the mind, pushing yourself outside your comfort zone, and building a mind map are some of Barry’s suggestions towards living a more rewarding life. Our cover art is an oil painting by Mary Kooi of Summit. Entitled Blue Shutters, it is a scene from Casperia, Italy, where Mary started the painting, “plein air” or painting outdoors. She completed this painting at the Visual Art Center of NJ. Her inspiration came from the subject matter, as well as the play of light and color in the landscape. Let us remember to shop local and support the small businesses that form the backbone of our communities. By doing so, we not only uplift our local economy but also create a stronger, more connected community for all. Wishing you a wonderful start to the New Year ahead! Warm regards, Anna Petro A Note From Our Publisher... CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Eileen Barna, Gail Bicknell, Isla Burns, Celeste Campos, Nick Concilio, Barry Farber, Sandra Fava, Carolyn Hanson, Dr. Tanveer A. Janjua, MD, Joanne Kleinle, Dr. Matthew Lanum, Trish Mahoney, Ellyn Mantell, Jenayah Mathis-Minnigan, Dr. Michael Osit, Polina Semeno , CPDT-KA, Robert Shapiro, CPA, ABV, Eric Soloto , Dr. Claudia Tamas VALENTINE’S SECTION Shopping, Dining, Beauty & Events Pages 11-17 Creative Corner Page 14 HOME & DESIGN SECTION Pages 19-28 Home Improvement: TrueLeaf Kitchens Page 22 Hints for the Home-Fair Street Interiors Page 27 Financial Forum: Shapiro CPAs Page 33 Pets’ Corner: My Dogs Got Class Page 34 HEALTH & WELLNESS SECTION Pages 36-44 Mind the Mind Page 36 Health Hotline: Advanced Frequency Energy Spa Page 37 Medical Minutes: Janjua Plastic Surgery Page 38 Medical Minutes: Dr. Matthew Lanum Page 39 The Art of Living Page 40 Health Hotline: NMR Page 44 SENIOR LIVING SECTION Pages 46-48 Slice of Life Page 46 Senior Corner Page 46 WORSHIP PAGE: Faith, Love, Joy Page 49 KIDZ CONNECTION SECTION Pages 50-52 Teen Voice Page 50 Family Adventures Page 53 COMMUNITY CALENDAR Pages 54-55
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THE BERNARDS-RIDGE CONNECTION PAGE 8 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 theconnectionsnj.com If you are even contemplating a divorce, planning is essential. Being prepared and keeping perspective, as much as humanly possible, can help you save time and legal fees while protecting your and your children’s interests. 1. Speak to an Attorney Now — Not Later Whether determined or on the fence, it is important to meet with a lawyer. This will help you understand the law and how it applies in your jurisdiction, consistent with the facts of your case. There may be issues or questions that need to be addressed by your lawyer before you decide to divorce. Do not sign or agree to anything without first speaking with your attorney. If the opposing party is pushing you to sign something on the spot-be suspicious. 2. Select the Right Attorney Picking the right lawyer is key to navigating the divorce process. Lawyers have an important say in what happens and what does not happen in divorce matters. Referrals and recommendations from trusted advisors or family members, friends, or colleagues who have gone through the process can be very valuable. Your financial planner, accountant, marriage counselor or psychologist can recommend attorneys they know and respect. Selecting an experienced lawyer who knows the “legal terrain” of the court system of the county where the divorce will take place is important. 3. Gather Documentation In advance of the first meeting with your attorney, assemble as much relevant documentation as possible, such as recent tax returns, pay stubs for both you and your spouse, banking information, copies of stock and brokerage account statements, a detailed list of all assets and liabilities and any legal paperwork already filed and/or served upon you. It is important to understand your monthly costs as well as annual costs and your individual needs. It is essential that your lawyer also understands how much you and your spouse expect to earn between now and retirement, how much there is to divide now, and what both of you contributed to the marital pot. 4. Prepare for the Initial Meeting First, prepare a list of questions to be addressed when you meet with your lawyer. And remember, there is no such thing as a stupid question. Second, list your priorities! Your goals need to be shared and shaped with counsel consistent with the facts and the economic realities of the case. Third, come alone to your initial meeting and future meetings with your attorney. Bringing a third party into the meeting could compromise the attorney-client privilege, a risk you do not want to take. 5. Tell the Truth and Keep a Diary It is important to be candid and truthful with your attorney. Attorneys do not like surprises. If your attorney is well-informed, he or she can be fully prepared to deal with potentially damaging information. Keep a diary and record all significant events pertaining to your case and make sure to share copies with your attorney. This may be especially important in a custody case. In addition to recording important events in your diary, document what you can with photographs or video. For more information on these and other questions regarding divorce in New Jersey, contact Fox Rothschild Family Fox Rothschild Family Law attorneys resident in the Morristown office, Eric Solotoff at esolotoff@foxrothschild.com or (973) 994-7501; or Sandra Fava at sfava@foxrothschild.com or (973) 994-7564. LAWYER’SVIEW Five Tips for Preparing for Divorce in New Jersey By Sandra Fava and Eric Solotoff
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THE BERNARDS-RIDGE CONNECTION PAGE 10 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 theconnectionsnj.com CONNECTING WOMEN. CHANGING LIVES. JOIN US. www.impact100gardenstate.org In the heart of New Jersey, a transformative force is at work: Impact100 Garden Impact100 Garden State. This all-woman, all-volunteer philanthropic powerhouse channels the collective strength of local women to bring about meaningful change. Founded on the simple yet powerful idea that women, by pooling their resources, can make a significant impact on their community, Impact100 Gar- Impact100 Garden State has awarded more than $3 million in grants to northern New Jersey nonprofits since 2013. “Each member contributes $1,000 annually,” explains Impact100 Garden State Impact100 Garden State President Debby Seme, a Martinsville resident. “These individual contributions are then combined to create high-impact grants for nonprofits that are making a difference in their community.” The organization’s service area includes Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, and Union counties. Three nonprofits working within Somerset County have been recipients of major grants: Frontline Arts, Middle Earth, and Norwescap. Frontline Arts engaged 400 veterans in their therapeutic art program, which culminated with over 1,000 visitors able to view the art projects that were the outcome of this grant. Middle Earth for Big Dan’s Bike Shop implemented an innovative program aimed at teaching bicycle mechanics, business operations, and employment-related skills to at-risk youth. The program was conducted in partnership with Raritan Valley Community College’s Enactus Club. Twenty-one at-risk youth completed the project training. Norwescap extended programming to women who lost employment or in a low-income bracket but seeking more gainful employment to support their families. The Impact100 Garden State grant enabled 75 women to successfully complete the program while also supporting Somerset County’s underserved Hispanic population. Thanks to our grant, Norwescap has been able to get additional funding so that the program continues to help women become self-sufficient. Merit grants were also given to Adult Day Care of Somerset County, Bonnie Brae, and Community in Crisis. Connecting Women, Changing Lives The grants channel funds to organizations addressing the needs of underserved populations in the areas of Arts & Culture, Children & Families, Education, Environment, Preservation & Recreation, and Health & Wellness. “The beauty of Impact100 Garden Impact100 Garden State lies not only in its financial impact but also in the democratic process that guides its grant-making,” Seme explains. Through a rigorous grant review process, members evaluate proposals, conduct site visits, and engage in thoughtful discussions to select the finalists. Major grant recipients are selected by a vote of the entire membership. Since its founding in 2013 with 135 charter members, Impact100 Garden State Impact100 Garden State has grown consistently each year. For 2023, the organization achieved a record high of 375 members and distributed $375,000 in grants to nonprofit organizations. “Our experience shows that a group of women working together can change the world and have fun doing it,” says Seme. “Working with some of the most incredible women on the planet, women who are smart and caring and fun, I have been able to witness firsthand the impact that collective giving can have. We empower women to become significant givers and philanthropists in their communities.” Impact100 Garden State will hold its “Big “Big Reveal” event, which announces the 2024 membership and the amount of this year’s grant pool, on Thursday, March 7. Women who are interested in attending this event or learning more about Impact100 Impact100 Garden State can write to member@impact100gardenstate.org. Celeste is the Vice President of Impact100 Garden State mpact100 Garden State and a Warren Township resident. COMMUNITY NEWS... Impact100 Garden State: Empowering Change, One Grant at a Time By Celeste Campos
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Find All This Love At: www.theconnectionsnj.com SHOPPING, DINING, BEAUTY & EVENTS PAGE 14 Celebrating Our 9th Year in Business! Full Bar Featuring: 18 Craft Beers, Wine Selection & Specialty Cocktails It seems that there are more choices we need to make, and they have a greater impact than ever before. While listening to my chosen news programs highlight what I believe to be true, another program may highlight a different view. Every day, I speak with friends whose belief system is contrary to mine, and contrary to what I have chosen to trust as true. And yet, since I respect and admire my friends, I have to strive harder to feel secure in my assessment of situations. Reading what is available, listening to podcasts, and expanding my knowledge all have become tasks I face as overwhelming, yet necessary. My brain doesn’t want to challenge or emotionally depose everyone or everything. My generation had so many fewer choices to make. We had radio when we were children, then black and white television for the financially comfortable, and then color television for the more affluent. We watched entertainment on television. Ed Sullivan entered our living rooms on Sunday nights with comedians, magicians, vocalists, and yes, Elvis Presley, and then, The Beatles! There were sitcoms that had us believe that every family but mine lived the perfect life, and by that, I mean, all problems were solved within 30 minutes. Even the news was a watered-down version of reality. We never saw violence until the Civil Rights Movement or the Vietnam War-at least not to my memory. Riots like Kent State were excerpted to only show students holding STOP THE WAR signs, until the death of four students by the Ohio National Guard during a rally opposing the expanding involvement of the United States in Cambodia. Today, I feel that choosing a cable news station, like so many other subtle choices we make, has become a symbol of our political leanings, and once we declare allegiance to that station, it becomes a betrayal to watch anything else. We are so polarized that we almost have to apologize for our thoughts when in a group that clearly sees the world through a different lens. Moving to a new community last year taught me that I must make the choice to listen, observe body language, and read between the lines before entering a political conversation. Riding in a new couple’s car en route to a restaurant for dinner can give me insight into how they view the same world in which we live. Many meals have teetered on becoming distasteful if certain subjects arise. Choosing to “agree to disagree” has become a mantra, if not a battle cry. Families have deteriorated because of the political divide, and that actually hurts my heart. Members are choosing to believe their way of thinking is more important than another’s way of thinking. How can that be fair? How can we devalue someone close to us for not seeing something the same or even similar? Are we so certain we are right that we would, in fact, rather be right than be loving to each other? I have seen this over and over again over the past several years. It feels as if many will regret their actions when they awaken from their fever dream and have lost relationships that cannot be brought back to life. I am choosing to listen, value, and accept the rights we all have to our beliefs. Here is hoping others will do the same. It feels as if society really needs that to flourish. At least, that is how I choose to see it! SLICE OF LIFE Making Choices By Ellyn Mantell We are so polarized that we almost have to apologize for our thoughts when in a group that clearly sees the world through a different lens.
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Find All This Love At: www.theconnectionsnj.com SHOPPING, DINING, BEAUTY & EVENTS PAGE 16 smoothasglassdesigns.com Unique Gifts & Gift Certificate Available Join the BRBA and be a part of a growing local business network. Our mission is to drive local business growth through bringing businesses and the community together. Take advantage of networking, referral, advertisement, sponsorship, and volunteer opportunities. Learn and grow by building new relationships, tapping into others member’s experiences, and attending educational sessions. We look forward to seeing you at our next event! e look forward to seeing you at our next event! earn and gr y building new r , tapping in and attending educational sessions. We look for e look for VISIBILITY NETWORKING COMMUNITY ● ● PROMOTING LOCAL BUSINESS PROSPERITY AND CONNECTIONS Smooth as Glass Designs was established in 2017 and we opened our brick and mortar in Chester in August of 2022 at 44 Main Street. As owner/ artist, I welcome you to stop in and browse our boutique, where you can find unique gifts or join a fused glass workshop. Our workshops are the perfect place to learn a new art form and meet new friends. Private workshops are available too. Birthday parties, ladies’ night out, fundraisers, corporate events as well as walk-ins are welcome. We also create custom work and memorial art glass. If you have an idea in mind, come in and we will collaborate together to make your dream into the reality of a beautiful work of art. Glass fusing is a creative process where different pieces of glass are fused together through heat. Artists arrange compatible glass pieces on a flat surface and expose them to high temperatures in a kiln. As the glass heats up, it melts and fuses, creating unique patterns, textures and colors. This technique allows for the creation of diverse art forms, from intricate CONNECTION COMMENDS workshop. Our workshops are the per As owner/artist, I have always wanted to support the American Heart Association and feel with the opening of my business last year, I now have the perfect opportunity to do so. jewelry to decorative plates and sculptures. The temperature and duration of the firing process, along with the selection of glass types, play crucial roles in determining the final outcome of the fused glass art. February is “heart month” and Smooth as Glass Designs will be sponsoring a fused glass heart sun catcher workshop on Friday, February 2nd at 6 PM, with 100% of the profits being donated to the American Heart Asso- American Heart Association. The workshop will run for an hour and a half. All supplies, instruction and firings are included for the donation of $100. Light snacks will be served and the event will be BYOB. The Association supports research, education, and awareness programs aimed at preventing heart diseases, and promoting heart health. Donations contribute to advancements in medical research, public outreach campaigns and initiatives that save lives by preventing and treating cardiovascular conditions. The Association holds a special place in my heart as a consequence of having received an aortic heart valve replacement in 2021, along with having suffered the losses of a grandfather, father and brother from massive heart attacks. As owner/artist, I have always wanted to support the American Heart American Heart Association and feel with the opening of my business last year, I now have the perfect opportunity to do so. Please join us for this very special workshop. For more details and to register, please contact Josie Bachetti at smoothasglassdesigns@gmail.com Smooth as Glass Designs Firing Up for American Heart Association Fundraiser 44 Main Street Chester, NJ 908-955-7896 SmoothAsGlassDesigns.com
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theconnectionsnj.com HOME & DESIGN PAGE 20 Give your furniture a new home! Donate it! Contact us at ReStore.Donations@MorrisHabitat.org Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 6pm Donations are accepted for drop off during regular business hours. 274 South Salem Street, Randolph, NJ .com Shop 24/7 Free pick up Accepting Residential and Business Donations All donations are tax deductible. www.morrisrestore.org/donate/ | (973) 366-3358 x210 | Follow us: DONATE VOLUNTEER SHOP Now accepting: • Jewelry • Instruments • Handbags • Travel sets • Collectibles your new or gently-used home furnishings and more to Morris Habitat for Humanity ReStore. • Furniture • Appliances • Kitchens • Lighting • Decorative hardware • Home decor • Building materials • Antiques Donate • Video game consoles and video games (in working condition) • Sporting goods (in useable working condition) • Figurines • Antique and vintage toys • Diecast model cars • Trading cards • Music and audio equipment (in working condition) To see a full list please visit Street Address For donation pickup, call (123) 456-7890 websiteaddress.org every purchase creates the opportunity for a better life. Street Address For donation pickup, call (123) 456-7890 websiteaddress.org every purchase creates the opportunity for a better life. our website. For donation pickup, call (973) 366-3358 Call Now for your Service or Replacement Appointment Libby Hontz 0RUWJDJH /RDQ 2IILFHU - - PGGJDF 908-581-9554 DFMM libby.hontz@usbank.com NMLS# 602511 Tony Clintock 1DWLRQDO 5HWDLO 6DOHV (VP q (DVW 732-841-4677 tony.clintock@usbank.com NMLS# 837683 Mark Ward %UDQFK 0DQDJHU Construction Certified - - PGGJDF 908-500-5114 DFMM mark.ward@usbank.com NMLS# 624105 Jack Kuriloff Sr. Mortgage Loan Officer 908-991-4872 PGGJDF 908-304-2162 DFMM jack.kuriloff@usbank.com NMLS# 624275 Marc Bauer 0RUWJDJH /RDQ 2IILFHU 908-991-4867 PGGJDF - - DFMM marc.bauer@usbank.com NMLS# 624089 Christopher Wolf Mortgage Loan Officer 973-630-1808 PGGJDF 973-723-0110 DFMM christopher.wolf1@usbank.com NMLS# 624978 Your U.S. Bank mortgage team is here to help you buy, build, or borrow. 152 Liberty Corner Road, Warren, NJ 07059 Loan approval is subject to credit approval and program guidelines. Not all loan programs are available in all states for all loan amounts. Interest rates and program terms are subject to change without notice. Visit usbank.com to learn more about U.S. Bank products and services. Mortgage, home equity and credit products are offered by U.S. Bank National Association. Deposit products are offered by U.S. Bank National Association. Member FDIC. ©2023 U.S. Bank
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theconnectionsnj.com HOME & DESIGN PAGE 22 HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTOR 908.766.2006 www.trueleafkitchens.com 134 S. Finley Ave., Basking Ridge truly transform the way you live I have to admit, I have not been a fan of the whole artificial intelligence (AI) invasion. AI taking the place of original creative thought is disheartening, and the idea of it replacing people is downright terrifying. However, a presentation at a recent industry conference opened my eyes to how this potentially negative force may actually help bring people together. AI is becoming a powerful tool in expediting the design process. Instead of spending countless hours scouring online photos and home design websites to find the perfect kitchen inspiration, AI can quickly prepare a selection of photos tailored to individual preferences. AI algorithms scan the internet and present homeowners with a curated gallery of inspirational images that align with their tastes. This saves valuable time and allows homeowners to better articulate their vision to the designer. As they say, “A picture is worth a thousand words.” Homeowners can now present a visual reference, minimizing the potential for miscommunication and speeding up the collaborative process. For homeowners embarking on a kitchen redesign, AI offers a virtual platform to experiment with layouts, colors, and styles. Some AI design websites allow you to upload photos of your existing kitchen, input design elements you would like, and then AI will generate a photo of the kitchen in your existing space. While the renderings can be quite impressive, they typically will not incorporate every detail exactly the way you want and are by no means a blueprint for the renovation. They do, however, jumpstart the design process by providing a tangible photo of the envisioned space to share with a design professional for further refinement, preparation of final drawings, and material and finish specifications. While AI can help in the creative phase, the expertise of a professional designer remains invaluable to make sure details AI may overlook are addressed. Designers possess a wealth of knowledge about the latest trends, durable materials, and sustainable options, guiding homeowners toward choices that align with their vision and lifestyle. Working with a designer is crucial for on-site project management. Design professionals bring years of experience in coordinating with contractors, managing timelines, and overseeing the execution of the design plan. This ensures a smooth and efficient renovation process, minimizing disruptions and delivering a kitchen that not only looks stunning but functions seamlessly. While AI may be revolutionizing some aspects of the kitchen design process, it is not replacing the human element. So, if you are looking for a professional to provide the expertise and personalized touch necessary to bring a kitchen design out of the world of virtual reality into actual reality visit Trueleaf Kitchens Trueleaf Kitchens located in downtown Basking Ridge at 134 S. Finley Ave., visit their gallery of past projects at trueleafkitchens.com, or call 908-766-2006 for an appointment. AI - Bringing People Together? By Eileen Barna Instead of spending countless hours scouring online photos and home design websites to find the perfect kitchen inspiration, AI can quickly prepare a selection of photos tailored to individual preferences. HOME IMPROVEMENT
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theconnectionsnj.com HOME & DESIGN PAGE 24 G A R A G E D O O R S S A L E S • S E R V I C E • R E P A I R S � The Garage Door Specialists � New Door Installations � Genie & LifeMaster Opener Repair � Broken Springs, Cables and Tracks Office: (908) 300-8200 • Cell: (732) 859-1265 www.buyriteohd.com Testimonial “We recently purchased and had installed five Coachman Series garage doors for our home renovation. If you are in the market, our recommendation is to check out Buy-Rite Overhead Doors in Manville. It was a First Class experience throughout the entire process. The price was the best around and the customer service experience was all I could have hoped for….Megan as Customer Rep, and install technicians Nick and Tom made for a seamless experience. Five stars to this company across the board.” ~Jeanne Jensen Nick Concilio, owner Founded by my father and grandfather, Buy-Rite Overhead Doors Buy-Rite Overhead Doors has been a family-run business for over sixty years. During our development as a company, we have grown from a modest startup to a trusted local partner for all things garage doors. Over the decades of business, we have helped thousands of homeowners upgrade their homes and alleviate the burden of stress that can come with a broken garage door. We pride ourselves on taking the hassle out of these situations with a team of trained technicians who can diagnose and fix a wide range of problems that can affect your garage doors. From day one, we at Buy-Rite Buy-Rite have set out to create a company that not only fixes garage doors but also builds lasting relationships with customers. Based in Warren for the entirety of our operation, we understand the need for reliable service in a timely and efficient manner. We specialize in all manners of services for garage doors, ranging from general maintenance and tune-ups to full installations of garage doors and garage door openers. When our customers call in for their services, trained office members are here to help with the situation at hand, as well as quickly being able to schedule and send out our technicians promptly. What truly sets us apart from larger competitors is the personalized approach to customer service. Understanding the needs and CONNECTION COMMENDS stress that can come with a broken ga From state-of-the-art garage door openers to smart door systems, we integrate the latest products to guarantee that your garage door is both a barrier for protection as well as a gateway to a smarter, more connected home. wants of our customers is imperative, and we take pride in delivering tailored solutions to assist in their processes. Recognizing the diverse needs of our clientele, we offer a range of options that are custom-built to the exact specifications of your garage doors. Whether it’s a residential project requiring a blend of aesthetics and security or a commercial venture demanding heavy-duty functionality, we strive to meet the unique requirements of every customer. Customization is not an option at Buy-Rite; it is our standard, and we pride ourselves on ensuring that your garage door is as distinctive and custom as possible. Bringing a sense of security and safety to our customers’ homes is one of our core principles at Buy-Rite Buy-Rite and we strive to ensure that the best possible care is taken. In a world where technology is constantly evolving, so too are our garage door solutions. From stateof-the-art garage door openers to smart door systems, we integrate the latest products to guarantee that your garage door is both a barrier for protection as well as a gateway to a smarter, more connected home. Nothing is more imperative than keeping your family safe, and we share that very same sentiment as a family-run business. Discover the difference at Buy-Rite Buy-Rite Overhead Doors. Elevate your space with garage doors that not only provide functionality but also provide you with security and comfort for the entirety of your home. Transform your garage into a statement piece with us and open the door to a new era of style, technology, and personalized service. Join the growing community of satisfied customers who have chosen Buy-Rite Buy-Rite as their premier choice for garage doors. Buy-Rite Overhead Doors By Nick Concilio Office : 908-300-8200 Nick’s Cell: 732-859-1265 BuyRiteOHD.com
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theconnectionsnj.com HOME & DESIGN PAGE 26 26 McCann Mill Rd, Pottersville, NJ 07979 Antiques • Fine Art Fine Furniture • Garden Decor Modern • Accessories Lighting • Gifts 43 Old Turnpike Road • Oldwick, NJ 08858 908-439-3144 Tuesday-Saturday 10-6 & Sunday 11-5 www.juliangage.com
theconnectionsnj.com HOME & DESIGN PAGE 27 Fair Street Interiors Gail Bicknell, ASID, CAPS 908.334.1953 fairstreetinteriors.squarespace.com Design for Interiors and Home Modifications A new year always brings thoughts of improvement and change. That’s why we make resolutions and clear out the old to make room for the new. 2024 has some exciting possibilities for the home! Eat-in kitchens continue to increase in popularity. The kitchen has always been the heart of the home, where people gather and share. Less formal eat-in areas reflect a more casual and family-oriented lifestyle many clients are looking for. Consumers seem to be eliminating formal dining rooms in new builds and often repurposing existing dining rooms in older homes. Oftentimes a wall can be removed to open a dining room to the kitchen and create a larger, more welcoming space. I’m seeing a lot of special vintage pieces take center stage in rooms. From a unique chair or trunk to a statement console table; mid-century Modern, Victorian or rustic, a statement piece you’ve inherited~ or one you find and love~ can elevate a room in interest and originality. Hand thrown, oversized ceramics in lamp bases, vases and accessories add scale and texture. Chunky pieces look comfortable and casual and add visual weight and interest to a space. Cork is a classic material that’s reemerging this year. The soft colors and patterns in cork blend beautifully with many other textures and you’ll see it in flooring, fabrics, wallcovering and even in small accent pieces this year. In furniture, last year’s clean geometric lines and reeded surfaces have given way to organic curves which soften spaces and add to the flow of rooms. Look for softer, rounded curves in both upholstery and case pieces in 2024. If you’ve shopped for outdoor furniture in the past few years you’ll realize it’s getting hard to tell from furniture designed for interior spaces! Classic lines, beachy silhouettes and comfortable soft seating are popular. Particularly if your home has a covered patio or breezy outdoor room, summer furniture has become an important category for many higher end furniture retailers. And this light look isn’t just for summer-season spaces. Cane and rattan beds, dressers and tables are popular in apartments and homes, even in cooler climates. If you’re watching interior trends on social media, two things you’re probably seeing a lot of are embellishments and Grandma-Chic and they can complement one another. Trim is huge~ tassels, ball fringe, tapes and edging, which work perfectly with the patterns, subtle colors and touches of femininity in Grandma-Chic spaces. Damask fabrics will be prominent in lampshades, window treatments, wallcoverings and even ceramics. Particularly in bedrooms, these trends will elevate and glamorize a room. My favorite trends usually revolve around color and 2024 is full of it. Pantone selected Peach Fuzz as its color of the year, which is a warm and velvety blush tone perfect for bedrooms and bathrooms, maybe even a foyer? Dark rich muddy tones, particularly deep browns are going to be seen. Check out Behr’s Cracked Pepper. And finally, greens are back and big. Both Dutch Boy and Graham and Brown selected gorgeous greens, Ironside and Viridis, as their colors of the year. Verdant, rich, muted comforting greens inspire growth, promote calm and bring the outdoors in. Let’s freshen up! Ready to update the heart of your home? I’d love to talk with you! Email: fairstreetinteriors@gmail.com Visit our website: fairstreetinteriors.squarespace.com Design Trends for 2024 By Gail Bicknell HINTS HOME FOR THE Graham & Brown Century Furniture
theconnectionsnj.com HOME & DESIGN PAGE 28 References & Insured • Interior Painting • Fine Trim and Moldings Installed • Basement Remodeling • Tile & Marble Installation • Bathrooms • Replacement Windows • Tape and Spackle Painting by Raymond Painting & Carpentry Raymond McConnell HIC# 13VH06581900 (908) 672-3541 • Basking Ridge, NJ Sports card store offering baseball, basketball, football, hockey, soccer, pokemon cards, memorabilia, hobby wax, single cards, retail and supplies. 253 S. Main Street, Manville, NJ 08835 908-842-2400 Open Monday-Saturday (11am-6pm) Receive 10% off when you spend $50 Friendly In-Home Service COMPUTERS MOBILE TUTORING WiFi (908) 242-3322 | MyTechGuy.com | 8 Mtn. Blvd, Warren
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THE BERNARDS-RIDGE CONNECTION PAGE 33 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 theconnectionsnj.com LOST IN A MAZE OF COMPLEX FAMILY LEGAL MATTERS? LET US SHOW YOU THE WAY. RIKER DANZIG FAMILY LAW. EXCELLENCE AT WORK. To find out more, contact Allen Scazafabo,Esq. Certified Matrimonial Law Attorney by the Supreme Court of New Jersey.* 973.451.8428 or ascazafabo@riker.com *For information on the Supreme Court of New Jersey Board on Attorney Certification visit: www.njcourts.gov/attorneys/attcert.html WWW.RIKER.COM • CHECK OUT OUR BLOG AT RIKER.COM/BLOG/FAMILY-LAW MORRISTOWN • TRENTON • NEW YORK CITY ATTORNEYS AT LAW TIMELY TIPS FOR TAX SEASON With tax season upon us, Shapiro CPAs have stood ready since 1937 to assist You. By selecting Shapiro CPAs you will get better outcomes and con dence that your taxes are done right. Experienced CPAs are trained to improve accuracy, maximize deductions, and minimize tax liability. As a skilled trusted advisor, Robert Shapiro CPA and his skilled team can answer your questions and know what questions to ask to accurately prepare your returns. As a boutique rm, bene ts to our Clients extend beyond tax season, with year-round access. Embedded in the constantly changing tax landscape, 2023 items indexed to in ation saw signi cant increases. For a bit of math, the 2023 standard deduction has increased to $27,700 for Married Filing Joint (MFJ) and Single to $13,850 respectively. Income Tax brackets adjusted, while the top Federal rate remains 37% it is now applied to taxable income in excess of $693,750 MFJ and $578,125 Single. Federal tax rates applied to long-term capital assets remain preferable to that of ordinary income, despite the 3.8% net investment tax for higher earners. Long-term capital gain rates include an underutilized zero bracket, 15% and 20% rate based upon income. Perhaps the best outcome was that social security bene ts increased by 8.7% for 2023 and again by 3.2% for 2024. To maximize the expanded standard deduction taxpayers could seek to bunch itemized deductions. Charitable contributions remain a powerful tool for the philanthropic. By making a larger charitable gi in a single year donors could take advantage of itemizing in the current year and standard deduction in future years. A uent taxpayers could explore utilizing a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) to leverage charitable giving. DAF will enable the taxpayer to claim the Fair Market Value (FMV) of eligible assets contributed to the current year, and avoid tax on the di erence between tax basis and FMV, while preserving the ability to make grants to charities for years to come. is deduction can be used to o set years with greater income or even a Roth IRA conversion. By utilizing a DAF, the grantors can maximize charitable proceeds and tax ef- ciency, without the need for additional tax returns, such as with a personal foundation. e limitation of the State And Local Tax (SALT) deduction to $10,000 has e ectively created a tax increase for residents of hightax states including NJ and NY. Both NJ and NY have created a so-called workaround in the form of an alternative Pass- rough Entity Tax (PTE) which e ectively allows the state income tax to be paid and deducted at the entity level. While this does not help for real estate taxes on your home it can be quite valuable. For example, $100,000 of PTE paid would save the taxpayer at the 37% federal rate, $37,000 in tax. Let Shapiro CPAs caring, experienced team guide you to a stress-free tax season. We have provided timely and accurate tax preparation for over 75 years. And we are uniquely equipped to manage the complex needs of successful individuals and closely held family businesses. As a multi-disciplined professional, I enjoy providing timely and helpful information on a wide range of nancial issues. If you are interested in achieving better nancial outcomes, please contact me directly. I would welcome the opportunity to help your family business prosper. *You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional. FORUM FINANCIAL By Robert Shapiro CPA, ABV-Owner Shapiro CPAs
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