THE BERNARDS-RIDGE CONNECTION PAGE 6 NOV 2026-JAN 2027 theconnectionsnj.com Sandy Ruda Title: Music to My Ears Medium: Oils Sandy is a ne artist who lives in Basking Ridge. She has been creating artwork since she was a child. She always knew that she wanted an art career. After attending The Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, she worked as a graphic designer in the publishing eld. While she enjoyed this career, she discovered her real passion years later when she began oil painting. She paints in a realistic manner and incorporates her personal style. Pastel painting is another medium that she often works in. Her paintings have been exhibited in the New Jersey/New York area and are a part of art collections throughout the US. Sandy is an instructor at The Visual Arts Center of NJ in Summit. She teaches adult classes in oil painting, pastels, colored pencils and color theory. She has served as a juror for statewide art exhibits and takes commissions for all subject matter including pet, people and house portraits. You can view her artwork at www.sandyruda.com. She posts her recent paintings on Instagram and Facebook. Her handle is @sandyruda. Or you can email her at sandyruda@gmail.com. THE CONNECTION MAGAZINE'S TEAM PUBLISHED BY Georgeann Agaisse, Heather Silver, Alicia Singman, Jeanette Vogel, Kristi Abbey, Max Silver 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 Assignment Armor in the September issue is Stacey S. of Basking Ridge. Stacey won a gift certificate to BeBe's Nails & Spa in Basking Ridge. Next Issue February! Advertising deadline January 8, 2027 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... As we welcome the holiday season, I find myself reflecting on the many blessings of the past year. Thanksgiving brings a special time for family traditions, celebrations, gratitude, and togetherness. The holidays have always held a special place in my heart. As my family continues to grow, I cherish both our treasured traditions and the new memories we create. Sharing laughter, stories, and time together reminds me that life's greatest blessings are the moments we share with those we love. The holidays are also a time to pause, reflect, and find inspiration. In this issue, our Faith, Hope & Joy section o ers a thoughtfully curated selection of local places where you can find peace, inspiration, and a sense of connection during this beautiful season. As you begin preparing for holiday celebrations, I encourage you to look no further than your own wonderful communities. Your local business owners are ready to welcome you with unique gifts, personalized service, and special finds you simply won't discover online or in a shopping mall. Saturday, November 28th, is Small Business Saturday, a perfect opportunity to show our appreciation for the hardworking business owners who make our communities so special. Before heading out, explore our Holiday Shopping Guide for thoughtful gift ideas, local treasures, and inspirations for everyone on your list. And let's not forget the joy of gathering around a table! Our Wine & Dine Directory is filled with wonderful local dining options, whether you're planning a festive evening out, a holiday celebration, or a special gathering with family and friends. While the holidays remind us of the importance of supporting our neighbors, I hope you'll make shopping and dining local a year-round tradition. Every purchase, every visit, and every recommendation helps keep our small businesses strong and our communities thriving. The beautiful Les Paul guitar featured on this issue’s cover was painted by Sandy Ruda. Belonging to her son, an accomplished guitarist, the instrument represents a beautiful intersection of their creative worlds. Inspired to bring her passion together with his, Ruda titled the piece Music to My Ears. As we gather with family and friends this Thanksgiving, the dining room table often reminds us how our homes-and our lives-evolve over time. In our latest Real Talk column, Marie Young shares how these quiet shifts in our households are driving the local Somerset Hills real estate market far more than national headlines. Whether your table feels a little too quiet this year or you are preparing to welcome a growing crowd, this article explores the unique advantages of moving during the holiday season. Read on to discover how local buyers are searching for a place to create their own holiday memories, and how simple, stress-free preparations can put your home in the holiday spotlight. There is no better way to unwind from the hectic holiday rush than by planning a relaxing getaway. In our latest Jetsetter’s Journey column, Rainbow Travel maps out the perfect European escape: a luxury river cruise. Today’s premier river cruises o er a seamless blend of unforgettable sightseeing, upscale accommodations, fine dining, and outstanding service. Finally, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all our local business owners and advertisers. Your continued dedication and support for The Connection Magazine allows us to bring our communities together and remain a trusted resource for all things local. We are truly grateful to be part of your success and to share your stories with our readers. From my family to yours, I wish you a beautiful Thanksgiving, and a holiday season filled with love, laughter, peace and countless blessings to cherish. Warmest wishes, Anna Petro Publisher, The Connection Magazine A Note From Our Publisher... CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Gail Bicknell, Carolyn Hanson, Dr. John F. Insinga, Joanne Kleinle, Lori Kolodin, Jessica Diamond Lia, Ellyn Mantell, Charlotte Mitchell, Dr. Lawrence V. Najarian, Dr. Lisa Ortenzio, Dr. Michael Osit, Ameya Ram, Colette Shovlin, Heather Silver, Eric S. Soloto , Hamsini T., Dr. Claudia Tamas, Marie Young 10 Lawyer’s View: Fox Rothschild, LLP 12-29 HOLIDAY CHEER 12 Holiday Shopping Guide 14 Jetsetter’s Journey: Rainbow Travel 20 Family Adventures: Joanne Kleinle 22-23 Houses of Worship: Faith, Hope & Joy 24 Wine & Dine Directory 28 Creative Corner: Carolyn Hanson 33-41 HEALTH & WELLNESS 33 Health Hotline: Natural Medicine & Rehabilitation 35 Commends: Somerset Psychological Group 36 Food for Thought: Lori Kolodin 38 Ask the Eye Doctor: Bedminster Eye & Laser Center 39 Mind the Mind: Dr. Michael Osit 40 Commends: Branchburg Natural Health 42-43 SENIOR LIVING 42 Community News: Heath Village 42 Senior Corner: Ellyn Mantell 44-45 KIDZ CONNECTION 44 Shelf Awareness: Charlotte Mitchell & Ameya Ram 44 A Poets Playground: Hamsini T. 45 Teen Voice: Colette Shovlin 46 Slice of Life: Ellyn Mantell 47-53 HOME & DESIGN 48 Hints for the Home- Fair Street Interiors 50 Real Talk: Marie Young 54-55 COMMUNITY CALENDAR
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NzA2NDY0