THE BERNARDS-RIDGE CONNECTION PAGE 6 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2026 4 Family Law: Cadicina Law, LLC 7 Financial Forum: Shapiro CPAs 8 Commends: Ace Aesthetics 11 Family Adventures: Joanne Kleinle 12 Lawyer’s View: Fox Rothschild 14-23 SHOPPING, DINING, BEAUTY & EVENTS 14 Valentine’s Day Gift Inspirations 16 Connection Community Champions: NJ Ballroom Dancers 17 Fashion Flash: Adams Fine Clothing & Tuxedo 19 Commends: Couture Traders 20 Creative Corner: Carolyn Hanson 23 Slice of Life: Ellyn Mantell 24-26 SENIOR LIVING 24 Community News: Heath Village 24 Senior Corner: Ellyn Mantell 31-39 HOME & DESIGN 32 Hints for the Home: Fair Street Interiors 37 Commends: Pheasant Lane Designs 41-42 KIDZ CONNECTION 41 Shelf Awareness: Sonia Prabhakar & Isabella Santos 42 Teen Voice: Siya Gokhale 43-51 HEALTH & WELLNESS 44 Health Hotline: NMR 46 Campers & Caviar: Serafina Perrotto 47 Health Hotline: Ellie Mental Health 48 Food for Thought: Lori Kolodin 50 Mind the Mind: Dr. Michael Osit 51 Health Hotline: Balance & Flow 52-53 COMMUNITY CALENDAR Olga Muzician Title of Artwork: In Bloom Medium: latex paint on wood Olga Muzician is a Ukrainian-born, New Jersey–based letterer, designer, and muralist known for her bold use of color and expressive hand lettering. Her lifelong artistic journey began at age six in her painter-godfather’s studio, where she developed a foundation in fine arts and oil painting before later studying communications design in college and graduate school at Pratt Institute. Before launching her full-time studio, Olga built an eight-year career as an Art Director in the international division of a major New York City magazine publishing house. Today, through Olga Muzician Studio, she creates vibrant digital lettering, large-scale murals, and illustration work for clients around the world. Her portfolio includes collaborations with brands such as Coca-Cola, Crayola, Snapchat, Trader Joe’s, Chili’s, Papyrus, Tillamook, Dolce & Gabbana, Winsor & Newton, Salvatore Ferragamo, Harper’s Bazaar, and Arteza. Olga’s work is driven by a mission to bring positivity, color, and uplifting messages into public and commercial spaces. Nature is one of her deepest inspirations, often reflected in her botanical motifs and organic design elements. Her recent focus on murals has led to collaborations with New Jersey townships and numerous private clients, transforming communities and environments through vibrant, immersive art. THE CONNECTION MAGAZINE'S TEAM PUBLISHED BY Georgeann Agaisse, Heather Silver, Alicia Singman, Jeanette Vogel, Pramisa Timsina The Connection Magazine P.O. Box 4081, Warren, NJ 07059 908-903-1799 | info@theconnectionsnj.com 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. The WINNER of the Sno' Problem Plumbing in the November issue is Scott Hornyak of Basking Ridge. Scott won a gift certificate to the Gladstone Tavern in Gladstone. Next Issue April! Advertising deadline March 11, 2026 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... Happy New Year—and hello to a fresh start! Welcome to the Bernards-Ridge edition of our February issue. As we say goodbye to last year, we welcome a new year filled with opportunity, good health, and meaningful connections. February is a time to reflect on what truly matters -community, relationships, and supporting the local businesses that make our neighborhoods thrive. At The Connection Magazine, our mission has always been to keep small businesses at the forefront. When you shop locally, you’re not just making a purchase, you’re investing in personalized service, unique finds, and one-of-a-kind experiences you simply won’t find online or in big-box stores. From thoughtful gifts to exceptional service, local businesses o er something truly special. Visit them for all things local, and please be sure to tell them we sent you. This issue, we’re celebrating Valentine’s Day with a specially curated guide filled with local treasures for food, fashion, and fun. Our Valentine’s Guide showcases businesses across all three Connection editions, The Warren–Watchung, Bernards–Ridge, and Bridgewater– Somerville Editions, giving you endless inspiration for celebrating the people you love. Whether you’re searching for a memorable dining experience, a unique gift, or something beautifully unexpected, you’ll find it right here. This issue is also packed with inspiration to start the year strong. Explore our Health & Wellness section to discover trusted local providers dedicated to keeping your body and mind healthy. Turn to our Home section for ideas along with experts ready to help with projects you’ve been meaning to tackle. Whether it’s remodeling, decorating, or buying/selling your home you will find them here. Be sure to check our Community Calendar, available both in print and online, highlighting activities and events for children and adults alike. There’s always something happening close to home. The vibrant painting on our cover was inspired by Olga Muzician’s love of nature and the sense of calm she finds in exploring natural landscapes. This piece exudes hope that spring is just around the corner! It is appropriately titled, In Bloom and is painted on wood with latex paint. Looking for something di erent to do? Love music and theater? Support your local high school’s rising drama stars by attending the upcoming musicals slated for March. Please read Joanne Kleinle’s Family Adventures column to find out more about two amazing productions that Watchung Hills Regional High School and Basking Ridge High School are o ering this winter. For those of you who have made “well-being” resolutions, consider Tai Chi. Our Health Hotline column describes how this ancient Chinese martial art can cultivate balance and stress reduction and enhance overall mind, body and spirit. Try a class at Balance & Flow in Gladstone and conquer those health resolutions! We’re also excited to share that The Connection Magazine is now on TikTok! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for all things local and get a bird’s-eye view of restaurants and shops to visit. Our featured businesses appear both in print and online. Visit us digitally at theconnectionsnj.com. Thank you for supporting local, supporting community, and supporting The Connection Magazine. Here’s to a year of growth, connection, and community spirit. Warmly, Anna Petro Publisher, The Connection Magazine A Note From Our Publisher... CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Gail Bicknell, Joseph Cadicina, Steve Drzewoszewski, Siya Gokhale, Carolyn Hanson, Joanne Kleinle, Lori Kolodin, Jessica Diamond Lia, Ellyn Mantell, David J. Marzano, Dr. Michael Osit, Serafina Perrotto, Sonia Prabhakar, Elizabeth Ru alo, Isabella Santos, Dr. Vince Sferra, Robert Shapiro, Eric S. Soloto , Chris Wilson
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