WINE & DINE DIRECTORY Inspirations for Your Best Valentine's Day Ever! HINTS FOR THE HOME What's New in the Heart of the Home? FAMILY ADVENTURES Beat the Winter Blues-With Museum Passes from your Local Library! PLAY TO WIN! Details on page 6 Cover Artwork By Jessica Cavaliere VOLUME LXII FEBRUARY/MARCH 2023 Bridgewater, Branchburg, Hillsborough, Martinsville, Raritan, Somerville Bridgewater-Somerville Edition
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THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 6 theconnectionsnj.com FEB/MARCH 2023 Welcome to 2023 with the February edition of the Bridgewater-Somerville Connection! I wish you much happiness, health and fulfillment in 2023. While cozied up by the fire this winter, take the time to peruse some of our featured sections. Love is in the air with our special Valentine’s Day section. Find the perfect locale for your romantic dinner date, using the Wine & Dine Directory. Look up local restaurants by town (websites and phone numbers provided as well). In addition, the Valentine’s section has great dining, gifts, beauty, and venue choices. Stay in good health with the help of our Health & Wellness section. Check out the Community Calendar and do something different by participating in one of the local events. Repairs and maintenance are easy when you use the Home & Design section as a resource for local contractors. In this New Year, we promise to consistently provide LOCAL content that matters to YOU! In return, we ask you to support our LOCAL businesses. As a community magazine, we recognize how shopping small has significant positive effects, such as: Increased Local Job Growth-When local businesses thrive, more hands are needed. Businesses are more likely to hire local. Community Growth- You are pouring money back into the local community, when you shop small, which leads to local prosperity. Personalized Service and Customized Selection-Local businesses get to know the tastes of their customers and will strive to meet them accordingly. Networking/Making Meaningful Connections- When you shop local, you widen your social and professional network by building relationships with the local business and their social network. Start the New Year off by visiting one of the many museums our area has to offer. Joanne Kleinle shares a secret way to make it more affordable in the Family Adventures column. “What To Do When You Don’t Know What To Do” is a must read, in which Dr. Michael Osit offers advice on effective decision-making and problem-solving strategies. Congrats to Dan Rosenberg, long time writer for The Connection Magazines, who authors our Random Connections column. Mr. Rosenberg has written a book! Elusive Links, his debut novel, illuminates fictional random connections. Be sure to visit his website at danarosenberg.com to purchase his book. Just in time for St. Patrick’s Day, Vacchiano Farms has shared their famous recipe for corned beef and cabbage in our Pinch of Local Flavor. The ethereal landscape scene on our cover depicts a place I’m sure many of you have visited. The wool painting is entitled, The Great Swamp. Jessica Cavaliere, the cover artist, says, “The Great Swamp has always been a place of quiet and reflection for me…This piece hopes to celebrate the Great Swamp’s beauty and abundance of color.” Please read Jessica’s impressive bio on page 8. Don’t forget to FOLLOW our social media channels. We truly do CONNECT you to your communities. Sincerely, Anna Petro, Publisher TABLE OF CONTENTS PUBLISHED BY Connection Magazine, LLC • P.O. Box 4081 • Warren, NJ 07059 • 908-903-1799 • info@theconnectionsnj.com 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 any liability for the accuracy of the claims made by our advertisers. CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Gail Bicknell, ASID,CAPS, Andrea S. Freeman, VMD,MS, Carolyn Hanson, Joanne Kleinle, Ellyn Mantell, Samantha Musumeci, Dr. Michael Osit, Elise Prezant, Dan Rosenberg, Deborah Sacks-Wilner, Polina Semenoff, CPDT-KA, Dr. Vincent Sferra, Eva Turbiner, Johanna Wiseman Somewhere in this Magazine is a FAKE AD. Spot it and send your answer, name, city and phone number to: Spotthefake@theconnectionsnj.com Subject Line: FAKE or play online at theconnectionsnj.com More than 350 people took part in our Spot The Fake Ad Contest in the November issue. Congratulations to everyone who “spotted” Cutting Corners!. SPOT THE FAKE! A NOTE FROM OUR PUBLISHER ON THE COVER Jessica Cavaliere ............................Page 8 CONNECTION COMMENDS Todd A. Schneiderman, MD,FACS.Page 21 Cedar Hill Prep School ..................Page 31 EDITORIALS Pets CornerMy Dogs Got Class...........................Page 8 VALENTINE’S DAY SECTION... Pages 10-17 Spotlight on Somerville. ................Page 11 Explore Raritan...............................Page 16 Restaurant DirectoryWhere to Wine & Dine...................Page 17 Community News – Zufall Health....................................Page 18 Pets Health - KIND Veterinary......Page 19 HEALTH & WELLNESS SECTION................................... Pages 20-26 Mind the Mind................................Page 20 Medical Minutes Psychiatric & Behavioral Health.....Page 22 Health Hotline - NMR.....................Page 24 Random Connections. ....................Page 27 KIDZ CONNECTION SECTION.................................... Pages 28-31 Family Adventures..........................Page 28 SENIOR LIVING SECTION...........Pages 32-33 Senior Corner..................................Page 32 Community News – JFS. ................Page 34 HOME & DESIGN SECTION........Pages 35-41 Fair Street Interiors........................Page 35 Real Estate Corner. ........................Page 38 Hints for the Home - COMMUNITY CALENDAR....... Pages 42-43 Creative Corner..............................Page 44 Slice of Life......................................Page 44 WINNER WINNER! The Bridgewater-Somerville ‘Spot the Fake’ ad contest winner is Amanda Alessandro from Bridgewater. She won a gift certificate to Michael’s Inn in Raritan. Founded by the Late Robin Fand With from The Connection's Team! OFFICE MANAGER Donna Reina EDITORIAL & PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Georgeann Agaisse SOCIAL MEDIA & PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Heather Silver ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE Patty Herman ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE Alicia Singman
THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 7 theconnectionsnj.com FEB/MARCH 2023 Rapid and PCR COVID 19 testing NOW AVAILABLE! 20 Minute Test. SAME DAY RESULTS Why pay a higher co-pay for urgent care when you can see the physicians you know and trust at a medical practice you feel comfortable in? 257 US-22 East Green Brook, NJ 08812 Tel: 732.968.7878 256 US 206 South Hillsborough, NJ 08844 Tel: 908.262.2263 myfamilycaremd.com Office Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-9pm • Saturday-Sunday 8am-5pm Michael Klele M.D. Stephanie Zottolli P.A.C Lucy Tasharofi P.A.C John Chafos M.D. Jaime Ligot M.D. Steven Risman M.D. Geroge Paroulek M.D.
THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 8 theconnectionsnj.com FEB/MARCH 2023 Jessica Cavaliere is a fiber artist, art educator, and animal lover. Through her artwork, she strives to capture the beauty, movement, and abundance of color found in nature. Taking the time to slow down and see the beauty every day has inspired her to focus on animals and landscapes in her work, using only wool as her medium. Growing up in Somerset Hills and now a resident of Morris County, Jessica draws inspiration from outings with her family. Jessica’s artwork is created through the process of needle felting, a method similar to that of tattooing. Rather than using ink, her medium is unspun wool. Using a barbed needle tool, the wool is forced into a fabric backing, which serves as a canvas. Recently, Jessica has begun wet felting the backgrounds of her artwork, a process where wool fibers are bound together through agitation with soap and water to form a firm, felted canvas. Needle-felted details are then added to create an almost threedimensional look in her wool paintings. Jessica’s artwork has been exhibited in shows at the Mayo Performing Arts Center, as well as Arts on Main Gallery in Rockaway. Her piece, Rainbow Lorikeet, was included in “Felt: Fibers Transformed” in the Summer 2022 issue of Fiber Arts Now magazine. She was also featured on Morris County Artists Network’s website as its August 2022, “Artist of the Month”. She is regularly commissioned to create animals and landscapes with wool and specializes in pets. Her artwork can also be viewed on Instagram: @jrlcavaliere. JESSICA CAVALIERE jessicacavaliere.com Jessica’s artwork is created through the process of needle felting, a method similar to that of tattooing. Rather than using ink, her medium is unspun wool. Using a barbed needle tool, the wool is forced into a fabric backing, which serves as a canvas. ON THE COVER Plenty of our beloved pets have trouble regulating their emotions, just like us sometimes! However, for our furry companions, it’s almost always overlooked or thought of as being ‘too excited’ or even being a ‘drama queen’ or a ‘troublemaker’. Sometimes when we, even dogs, have too much on our minds, we can’t go about our day as well as we’d be able to if things were more organized or predictable. Think about a menu at a diner: countless options and combinations, pages and pages of them. For many, it’s overwhelming. But for some, they already know what they’re getting or they just get the same thing every time. No need to look at the menu. Then we have a menu at a fancy restaurant: even fewer options. It almost feels like that’s easier to make a choice, no? So, if we compare these analogies to our dogs, we can see how having too many options overwhelms them and causes excitability or nervousness. Wanting to help your dog relax doesn’t have to come only from the emotions of over-excitement that leads to jumping on guests. It could also be from uncertainty or fear which causes continuous panting in stressful situations or even biting. This leads us to the debating discussion of choices. Yes, dogs should have choices. But to have so many that it causes undesirable behaviors? Think of this simple example: we keep our dogs on a leash so that they don’t get too far from us. Even there, we are limiting options. We crate our dogs to limit their options like chewing on furniture. We gate off areas in the house or close doors to limit them having access to certain areas. We always practice limiting options and being clear as to what is or isn’t acceptable; however, we disguise it under the phrase of “setting your dog up for success”. A big part of setting our dogs up for success is setting ourselves up for success too. We often become stressed because we are not clear and consistent (with our dogs and ourselves). We say we want to eat healthier, but we aren’t consistent with buying groceries, cooking dinner at home, or taking a rain check with friends that want to go out. With our dogs, we want them to be polite around guests, but we aren’t willing to make a plan everyone can follow through with to make it work. Both of these examples require minimizing options that don’t serve us like buying less unhealthy options at the grocery store or keeping our dogs on a leash inside around guests. We first have to teach ourselves how to set our own selves up for success before we can do it for others-like our dogs. Goal setting and taking small steps that are achievable help motivate us to keep going. Sometimes we make things too hard and that’s why we give up-even when teaching our dogs new behaviors or habits. Having good communication and a strong support system with the people around you are a game changer. Our dogs need the same from us. They need our support and guidance to make better choices so we can achieve our goals with them. A big part of helping ourselves and our dogs relax is learning triggers and learning how to work through them or be more prepared for them. It’s important for us to slow down and be conscious of our thoughts and actions and make sure they align with what we want for ourselves, whether it be for day-to-day functioning or long-term goals. It is also important to seek help when you need it! A professional at My Dog’s Got Class would love to help teach you how to set you and your dog up for success, set achievable goals, and help set up a plan to keep things consistent! As the holidays come to an end, this is a perfect time to hunker down and work on some self-improvement for both yourself and your dog. New year, better you! Setting Your Dog Up For Success Goal setting and taking small steps that are achievable help motivate us to keep going. Sometimes we make things too hard and that’s why we give upeven when teaching our dogs new behaviors or habits. PETS’ CORNER By Polina Semenoff, CPDT-KA
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theconnectionsnj.com SHOPPING, DINING, BEAUTY & EVENTS PAGE 12 PENELOPE'S POETIC PEN Our pens compose & write a beautiful poem for your loved one on Valentine's Day. Pens are available in Red, Blue, Pink & Black. Send your Valentine the perfect gift! ONLY $36.00 www.PenelopesPoeticPens.com The Best Way to Cook Corned Beef : Stovetop Corned Beef & Cabbage Corned beef cooked on the stovetop is the most classic preparation. You don’t need any special equipment; this is the technique for you to follow... • Place your corned beef brisket in a large pot or Dutch oven with enough water to cover it. • Add aromatics like carrot chunks, celery stalks and a quartered onion and cover with lid. These vegetables will infuse the cooking liquid with flavor as the corned beef simmers away. A Vacchiano Farm corned beef is seasoned with pickling spices, such as bay leaves, whole black peppercorns, mustard seeds, juniper berries, allspice berries and whole cloves. • Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. • Once at a full boil reduce to a simmer, cover, and braise until very tender but not falling apart, about three hours for a three-pound brisket. A fork should easily pierce through the meat. • Now you can remove the brisket. • Cover it in foil, strain out the spices and aromatics. • Add new potatoes, green cabbage wedges and carrots to the cooking broth and simmer them until they are cooked through. At Vacchiano Farm we make our own mustards, horseradish and our world-famous rye bread or marble rye bread to compliment your fantastic St. Patrick’s Day dinner. (or any time of the year) A Pinch of... FRESH VACCHIANO FARM CORNED BEEF Our FARM o ers: • No Antibiotics & No Hormones on our own Pasture Raised Beef, Chicken, Turkey & Pork • Over 65 years of experience with butchering • Farm Fresh Produce, Eggs & Dairy • Homemade Prepared Meals & Fresh Salads • Homemade Ice Cream & Italian Bakery 803 US Highway 202 S, Neshanic Station, NJ 08853 908-237-1301 • vacchianofarm.com Hours: Monday-Saturday 9-7 pm, Sunday 9-6 pm
theconnectionsnj.com SHOPPING, DINING, BEAUTY & EVENTS PAGE 13 B&C Hillsborough Florist • Valentine's Day • Special Occasions • Birthdays • And more... bandchillsboroughflorist.com Visit our website to see our wide selection of flower arrangements to make your occasion memorable! Owner Alina Florea • Flower Designer 908.359.7771 601 Rt. 206, Hillsborough, NJ 08844 Fashionable Clothing Reasonable Prices at Carrying a variety of sizes styles and Come shop your out! Riverwalk Village Center • 665 Martinsville Road • Basking Ridge • 908.991.3820 @shopsocialbutterflyboutique Dina Given, The Wine Diva, is a certified wine professional who creates unique and memorable wine tasting experiences personalized just for you in the comfort of your own home. Organize a group of friends or keep it intimate and romantic. I bring the wines, expert knowledge, and fun interactive experience. You sit back, relax and enjoy! 908.552.8443 - thewinediva@yahoo.com www.WineDivaExperiences.com @WineDivaExperiences
theconnectionsnj.com SHOPPING, DINING, BEAUTY & EVENTS PAGE 14 192 Route 22 215 Route 22 East Green Brook, NJ 08812 6400 E Black Horse Pike Egg Harbor, NJ 08234 200 Tuckerton Rd Medford, NJ 08055 Coming Soon Arthur’s Self Storage 3421 Route 22, Branchburg. NJ
theconnectionsnj.com SHOPPING, DINING, BEAUTY & EVENTS PAGE 15 Buckets of Chicken Buffalo Wings Dinner For Two Expires 4/10/23. Not to be combined with any Expires 4/10/23. Not to be combined with any Expires 4/10/23. Not to be combined with any Expires 4/10/23. Not to be combined with any Expires 4/10/23. Not to be combined with any other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. Larger Quantities Available Larger Quantities Available 8 Pieces of Chicken Single French Fries or Mashed Potatoes Plus 1/2 lb. of Salad of Choice $19.95 Family Chicken Fiesta 12 Pieces of Chicken Double Order of French Fries or Mashed Potatoes Plus 1 lb. of Salad of Choice $31.50 COUPONS CAN BE USED MULTIPLE TIMES CHICKEN • SEAFOOD • RIBS CATERING AND PARTIES Chicken Jubilee other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. 16 Pieces of Chicken 1 lb. Salad of Choice Triple Order of French Fries or Mashed Potatoes Plus 6 Rolls NOW $42.95 Fish 'N Chip Tub 732-469-4111 V iew ou r menu and add it iona l coupons on ou r website www.chickenholidaybridgewater.com Open 7 Days a Week Sun.-Thurs. 10:30am-8pm; Fri. & Sat. 10:30am-9pm 691 E. Main Street, Bridgewater 1/4 mile west of TD Ballpark other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. 40 pcs Shrimp $14.25 60 pcs Shrimp $21.75 80 pcs Shrimp $28.50 100 pcs Shrimp $34.95 Shrimp In A Basket 4/10/23. Expires Not to be combined with any 4/10/23. Expires Not to be combined with any other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. Ask About DAILY DINE IN Specials Monday-Friday Sunday Football Specials While Watching the Games 10 Pieces Batter Dipped Fish Double French Fries or Mashed Potatoes 1 lb. Salad of Choice $25.95 SUPER BOWL Feb. 12, 2023 Place Your Orders Early! Happy Valentine's Day! 16 Buffalo Wings $20.75 24 Buffalo Wings $30.75 48 Buffalo Wings $60.95 100 Buffalo Wings $119.95 8 Pc. Chicken $15.25 12 Pc. Chicken $22.95 16 Pc. Chicken $30.75 20 Pc. Chicken $38.25 ALL SIZES & COLORS AVAILABLE AFFORDABLE PRICES! NO MINIMUMS REQUIRED! • Family Fun • Community Events • Sports Think of us for: You can personalize your own garments! Don't want to give chocolates for Valentine's Day... Create your own GIMMEE GIMMEE TEE! • Birthdays • Artwork Promotion • Team Building • Company Logos,etc. High Quality, Long Lasting Garments Your Design Here GimmeeGimmeeTees.com Tues thru Sat-11 am to 7 pm Serving Somerset County for over 11 Years! We Make Custom Hats NEXT LEVEL 2 BARBER SHOP 28 Davenport Street ∙ Somerville, NJ 08876 908-393-5906 Sunday By Appointment Hours: Monday 12-6 pm • Tuesday-Thursday 10:30-7 pm • Friday 10:30-8 pm • Saturday 8am-6pm Appointments Preferred Parking in Rear Men fades and shape-ups afros and bald heads
theconnectionsnj.com SHOPPING, DINING, BEAUTY & EVENTS PAGE 16 Є EXPLORE RARITAN • Alterations for Men and Women All work done on premises • Clean & preserve • wedding gowns Laundry shirts • Clean Blankets, • Comforters, & Drapes Monday-Thursday 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM Friday 8:30 AM-3:00 PM Saturday 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM 908-526-9562 | 46 Thompson St., Raritan, NJ Hours: Mon.-Wed. 11am-12am, Thurs.-Sat. 11am-2am, closed Sunday Daily Specials Happy Hour: M-F 3pm-6pm Military & First Responder Discount Packaged Goods To Go Hot Food off the Grill and Cold Beers on Tap! Quality musical instruction for all ages and abilities We have over 20 teachers who provide private lessons in piano, voice, orchestral (908) 595-6980 55 West Somerset Street, Raritan, NJ 08869 RaritanMusicCenter.com | raritanmusiccenter@gmail.com
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THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 18 theconnectionsnj.com FEB/MARCH 2023 As we enter early 2023, almost three years since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, much of the focus on the importance of access to health care and robust public health is fading. Happily, Somerset County consistently ranks as one of the healthiest counties in New Jersey, according to the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute. It also ranks as one of the wealthiest counties in the state. Health and wealth often go hand in hand as access to health care is facilitated by having good insurance and resources to pay for it. Yet, not all the residents of our community share these assets. Somerset County includes communities of poverty that are home to many needy families who often struggle to find affordable healthcare services and maintain good health. This difficulty was highlighted during the pandemic when we saw different rates of illness among essential workers who could not work from home and were often exposed to infection in work settings, including food service, retail, and housekeeping. This crisis has reminded us that the health of all is intertwined, and together, we must do what we can to take care of each other and stay well. This focus on access to health care needs to remain at the forefront of concerns for our community. Too many of our neighbors and their needs remain hidden and underserved. This is where Zufall Health comes in–we are here for the neediest people in our community providing high quality, affordable and accessible primary and preventive medical, dental, and behavioral health care services-as we have for over 32 years. Zufall treats patients in the primary care setting and keeps them out of emergency departments when appropriate. This approach provides continuity of care and keeps overall health system costs down. Founded in Dover, by Dr. Robert Zufall and his wife Kathryn, as a small volunteer clinic, Zufall has grown into a community health system with sites in seven counties including two mobile units. We serve everyone, regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay. Zufall Health opened its Somerville office in January 2014, when it merged with Women’s Health and Counseling Center, and has been providing care to Somerset County’s hidden poor ever since, caring for families across the lifespan from babies to seniors. We opened our second Somerset County site, a school-based health center, in July 2022, at the Hillcrest Elementary School in Franklin Township. Being in a school lowers barriers for low-income families to access care for their children in a trusted place and strengthens Zufall’s relationship with the community. We look forward to opening a new Zufall site within the Richard Hall Community Mental Health Center in early 2023, which will integrate primary medical and dental care for those navigating mental health issues. Zufall also provides many supportive and enabling services such as case management, patient navigation, insurance enrollment, translation, and transportation that support our patients as they navigate the many social and environmental factors that affect their health. Often resources are focused on more urban areas where there may be a greater concentration of those in need, but no one in our community should have to worry about where they can see a doctor. Zufall Health stands ready with our doors wide open for anyone in need so that they can enjoy access to high-quality health care that is essential for their personal well-being and the health of the community. Learn more at: zufallhealth.org or call 908-526-2336 (Somerville Location) By Eva Turbiner, President and CEO, Zufall Health Building Healthy Communities This focus on access to health care needs to remain at the forefront of concerns for our community. Too many of our neighbors and their needs remain hidden and underserved. This is where Zufall Health comes in–we are here for the neediest people in our community. COMMUNITY NEWS...
THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 19 theconnectionsnj.com FEB/MARCH 2023 NOWOPEN! Our new state-of-the-art hospital is open! Services include: Like and Follow us on Facebook It’s no secret that our pets can’t brush their teeth. Imagine not brushing your teeth for days, weeks, months, or even years. This is the case for many dogs and cats. Without routine dental care, plaque and bacteria accumulate under the gum line and also on the surface of the teeth, creating cavities. Over time this plaque and bacteria erode at the ligament that holds the teeth in place causing teeth to become increasingly loose. Bacteria then have the opportunity to travel down to tooth roots and cause a deep infection there. Bad breath is the least of the problems in that case. Serious pain may arise, but worse than that, bacteremia, a condition when bacteria cross into the bloodstream and cause serious illness, may occur. If you’ve ever had a toothache or even a small canker sore in your mouth, you know that oral pain can be extremely bothersome in the least and exceedingly painful in the case of an infected tooth root or a broken tooth. For dogs and cats, oral pain not only means that it is difficult and/or uncomfortable to eat and drink, but poor oral health impacts many other facets of their lives. They use their mouths to scratch an itch, to pick up a toy or play ball, and especially for cats, to groom themselves. Periodontal disease in our pets is extremely common. In fact, studies have found that by two years of age, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have periodontal diseases. So why then, do even really dedicated pet owners so often ignore their pets’ dental health? The answer is simple…most pets don’t like their teeth brushed. They aren’t trained early on to accept teeth brushing and so it becomes difficult, or even dangerous as some pets may inadvertently chew or bite during the process. When this is the case, a variety of other dental health alternatives may be utilized – including dental chews, wipes, sealants, and other oral supplements to help prevent plaque accumulation. Ultimately, however, none of these can take the place of a thorough professional dental cleaning. During a dental cleaning performed by a veterinarian, the teeth are scaled to remove plaque and tartar, polished, and probed to evaluate the extent of periodontal disease. Often dental x-rays are utilized to evaluate the health of the tooth and jaw below the gum line. Dental sealants may also be applied to help delay plaque and tartar accumulation. Many pet parents ask me to scale their pet’s teeth while they are awake or otherwise seem reluctant to anesthetize their pet for a dental cleaning. However, there is no substitute for a dental cleaning performed under anesthesia during which time all surfaces of the teeth (including those on the inside/alongside the tongue and those below the gum line), may be thoroughly examined, scaled and polished. Pets that have routine dentistry performed regularly (ideally at least once a year), are much more likely to have healthy, pain-free mouths and to maintain their teeth well into their advanced years. Pets that don’t receive dental care until later in life when their teeth are loose and diseased are much more likely to have concurrent heart, lung, liver, and kidney infections. They are also more likely to need lengthy and more painful anesthetic procedures to remove diseased teeth and to treat deep-seated tooth and jawbone infections. In between routine veterinary dental cleanings, I typically recommend that my clients utilize maintenance dental health products that bear the seal of the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) on them. The manufacturers of these products have submitted study data to prove efficacy in preventing plaque and tartar buildup in animals. A list of products that have been awarded the VOHC seal can be found on their website at www.vohc.org. February is National Pet Dental Health Month. It’s a reminder to not neglect our pets’ oral health or comfort and that if your pet hasn’t had a dental cleaning recently, you should strongly consider scheduling one. But oral care isn’t just a once-a-year thing, routine care yearround is important for keeping our pets’ mouths healthy and ultimately for our furry family members to live longer, happier, and healthier lives. At KIND Veterinary Care Center, we are committed to providing exceptional and compassionate, life-long care for our patients. As a full-service veterinary hospital, we offer comprehensive and convenient medical, dental and surgical services with a personal touch. The Importance of Pet Oral Health February is National Pet Dental Health Month. It’s a reminder to not neglect our pets’ oral health or comfort and that if your pet hasn’t had a dental cleaning recently, you should strongly consider scheduling one. PETS’ HEALTH By Andrea S. Freeman, VMD, MS
theconnectionsnj.com HEALTH & WELLNESS PAGE 20 Nobody knows everything. And, nobody knows nothing. Since that is undoubtedly the case, everyone encounters a situation or problem that they do not know how to solve, and, everybody has some means to be able to solve it. To varying degrees, everyone encounters problems-so everyone needs to possess effective problem-solving strategies. How do you solve problems-big and small? Are your problem-solving strategies effective? Review the list of ineffective and effective problem-solving techniques and determine where you are in your problem-solving abilities. Ineffective Problem-Solving Strategies 1. Ignoring-Believe it or not, some people use “ignoring the problem” as a means to deal with problems. Although on rare occasions avoiding a problem can actually be indicated, it usually results in the problem either persisting or worsening. 2. Observing-Some people just sit back and watch, hoping that someone else will solve the problem or the problem will solve itself. 3. Being Irresolute-Lacking persistence, or giving up easily, significantly decreases the likelihood of solving a problem. 4. Rapid Speculation-Some people, in their effort to quickly remedy a situation or problem, jump to conclusions. Effective Problem-Solving Strategies 1. Thinking Positively-Everything is attitude. Thinking and assuming that you can solve the problem is a great beginning. 2. Logical Thinking-Using rational, logical thinking in viewing the problem often leads to steps required to solve it. Taking a step back from the problem in an attempt to view it objectively provides you with a perspective that leads to logical thinking. 3. Compartmentalizing-Breaking down the problem into manageable components or steps both prevents one from feeling overwhelmed by the problem and from feeling that one is at a loss as to what to do next. 4. Reviewing History-Problems often have a tendency to repeat themselves. Sometimes it is a recurring problem and sometimes it is a similar problem that you have solved in the past. Retrieving your solution steps for past problems can be invaluable in solving your present problem. 5. Being Persistent-“Sticktoitiveness” (not a word, but accurately describes it) is probably one of the most effective ways to solve problems. Persistence can certainly lead to frustration, but will also create novel ideas. Persistence can also facilitate flexible thinking, which creates innovative approaches. 6. Employing Trial and Error-You must be willing to try different solutions and be okay with them failing. Using different approaches, even when they fail, can lead to modifications and adjustments that will eventually have a positive result. 7. Checking and Rechecking-Always review what you have concluded-hopefully prior to implementing your plan. Attending to details, checking, and rechecking will help catch a flaw in your plan. 8 Seeking Help-After persisting without success, know when you absolutely cannot solve the problem independently. A good problem-solving strategy is to seek help from someone who has expertise or simply fresh eyes on the problem. Although there are only a few “don’ts” and many more “do’s” in the above lists, ineffective strategies will consistently and immediately stunt your ability to solve problems in your life. Whether it is a broken vacuum cleaner, a spat with a friend or co-worker, a medical issue, or a major life decision, invoking effective problem-solving strategies can mean the difference between a happy life and one filled with negativity. Dr. Michael Osit is a Licensed Psychologist practicing in Warren, and the author of The Train Keeps Leaving Without Me: A Guide to Happiness, Freedom, and Self Fulfillment (2016), and Generation Text: Raising Well Adjusted Kids In An Age Of Instant Everything (2008). MIND THE MIND Whether it is a broken vacuum cleaner, a spat with a friend or co-worker, a medical issue, or a major life decision, invoking effective problemsolving strategies can mean the difference between a happy life and one filled with negativity. By Dr. Michael Osit What To Do When You Don’t Know What To Do QUALITY DENTAL CARE Family & Cosmetic Dentistry Asha Mandalapu, DMD Mariya Brown, DMD Young SeokCHO, DDS (Board Certified Periodontist) 3197 Route 22 East • Branchburg, NJ 08876 (Next to St. Huberts Pet Center/right across from ShopRite of Branchburg) Saturday & Evening Appointments Available www.drjimchiro.com Limited Hours - Call for Appointment Official Chiropractor of the Somerset Patriots Double-A affiliate of the New York Yankees
theconnectionsnj.com HEALTH & WELLNESS PAGE 21 By Samantha Musumeci New Non-Invasive Treatment for Nasal Airway Obstruction (Stuffy Nose) Millions of Americans struggle to breathe through their nose due to nasal airway obstruction. This common but often undiagnosed condition can interfere with life’s most basic functions such as sleep and exercise and can take a significant toll on one’s quality of life and daily productivity. What is Nasal Airway Obstruction? Nasal breathing normally delivers 70 percent of airflow to our lungs. Nasal airway obstruction, also referred to as nasal blockage, limits airflow and makes breathing through your nose more difficult. The most common symptoms of nasal airway obstruction include nasal congestion or stuffiness, trouble sleeping, and difficulty breathing well during exercise or exertion. Abnormalities in the anatomical structures of the nose can be the result of trauma, chronic inflammation or structural changes that occurred through natural development. A deviated septum (crooked nasal cartilage), enlarged turbinates (structures within the nasal passageway), and nasal valve collapse are common causes of nasal airway obstruction. The nasal valve is the narrowest part of the nasal airway and often the most common site of nasal airway obstruction. Allergies can also cause or exacerbate nasal airway obstruction symptoms. Traditional Treatment Options While decongestants, nasal steroid sprays or antihistamines may address underlying allergy triggers or other causes of nasal swelling, these medications and sprays often provide only temporary relief and may cause unpleasant side effects. When medications fail to resolve symptoms of nasal airway obstruction, surgery may be required to improve airflow. These more invasive procedures may bring relief to some patients, but they don’t address all of the underlying anatomical issues and typically require general anesthesia and longer recovery times. Now there’s a better way to achieve lasting relief. VivAer®: A Non-Invasive Treatment for Patients with Nasal Airway Obstruction VivAer® is an innovative, non-invasive treatment that provides lasting relief from nasal airway obstruction. Dr. Schneiderman now offers this convenient and effective treatment and we’re excited about the numerous benefits it provides to patients. VivAer® features a thin, wand-like, temperature-controlled stylus that attaches to a console. The stylus is inserted via the nostril to gently remodel the nasal tissue and improve airflow using patented temperature-controlled radiofrequency technology. Treatment can be performed with a local anesthetic during a routine office visit, with no incisions, minimal to no downtime, and minimal discomfort. Patients typically return to normal activity on the same day. In clinical studies, treatment with VivAer® demonstrated both rapid symptom relief as well as long lasting results for patients. Two years following treatment, 97% of patients still reported significant improvement in nasal breathing, 94% experienced improved nasal breathing during exercise or exertion and 89% reported improved sleep quality. At Schneiderman ENT, we strive to provide our patients with the highest quality of care, and we are thrilled to add VivAer® to the treatments available in our office. If you would like to learn more about VivAer®, please call us today! 215 Union Ave. Suite C Bridgewater, NJ 908-725-5050 Dr.Schneiderman.com COMMENDS CONNECTION VivAer® is an innovative, non-invasive treatment that provides lasting relief from nasal airway obstruction. Dr. Schneiderman now offers this convenient and effective treatment and we’re excited about the numerous benefits it provides to patients. TODD A. SCHNEIDERMAN, MD FACS Providing Detection and Treatment for Your Ear, Nose and Throat Needs. Premier ENT Specialist Serving Somerset County, NJ. www.drschneiderman.com 215 Union Avenue • Suite C • Bridgewater, NJ 08807 • Phone: 908-725-5050 • Fax: 908-333-4145 HAVING TROUBLE BREATHING THROUGH YOUR NOSE? Are nasal sprays and decongestants providing only short term relief? We are now offering an Innovative, Non-Surgical Treatment for Nasal Airway Obstruction. Now, lasting relief is possible with
theconnectionsnj.com HEALTH & WELLNESS PAGE 22 The shortage of mental health clinicians is a national crisis that the team at Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Solutions (PandBHS) and the SRB Philanthropy Corp (the Corp) have taken on. During the pandemic, the need for mental health services exploded. In response, PandBHS began its expansion. In 2021, Dr. Steven Budoff was joined in practice by his niece, Gabriell Budoff, an advanced practice nurse practitioner, and Angela Shusterman, a therapist. Last year, 2022, saw another expansion with the addition of two certi ed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, Mary J. Richardson and Frances Burns. Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Solutions plans to expand again in 2023 in further response to the crisis. Psychiatric hospitalizations are way up and, and in most cases, patients are required to see a practitioner in the community upon release. The problem occurs when the practitioner in the community is not available in a timely manner. At the urging of Frances Burns, PandBHS will be opening a mental health urgent care clinic. The project is based on an immediate mental healthcare center in Louisville, Kentucky owned by psychiatrist, Dr. Ora Frankel who describes her business model this way: “…we see patients by appointment or on a walk-in basis. They can receive a full psychiatric evaluation, as they would in a private practice, with one of our psychiatric nurse practitioners (NPs) If, for example, a patient already has a psychiatrist in the community but can’t get into that practitioner in short order, we would see the individual and perhaps evaluate medications. We would then fax a record of the individual’s visit to the psychiatrist of record and recommend follow up with that provider. The second scenario is the patient who has not yet seen a psychiatrist but is experiencing a delay getting a rst appointment. Patients wanting someone in-network with their insurance will pay out of pocket to see us, just to get started because they have to wait several months to get an appointment with a psychiatrist in the community. At the conclusion of the evaluation, the evaluation and treatment plans are forwarded to the patient’s psychiatrist to ensure continuity of care.” While the clinic is a way of alleviating an immediate stressor for some patients, it is not a long-term solution. The reality is that without more clinicians, the crisis will continue and probably get worse and that is where SRB Philanthropy Corp, a NJ 501(c) (3), comes in. The mission of the Corp is to provide scholarships to individuals who are pursuing education in the mental health eld to assist them in reaching their career goals. The intention is to increase the number of mental health professionals who will serve their communities and offer quality mental health support to those in need. Dr. Budoff partnered with The Chabad of Hunterdon County to create The Steven R. Budoff Mental Health Educational Scholarship Fund (mentalhealthNJ.org) and in 2022, the rst two scholarships were awarded to students who are currently pursuing degrees in the eld. The scholarship fund is an ongoing project of SRB Philanthropy Corp and The Chabad of Hunterdon County. On March 30, 2023, the SRB Philanthropy Corp (NJmentalhealth.org) will be presenting the 1st Annual Psych Symposium, an informative and entertaining evening that will raise funds to expand the scholarship fund as well as support other programs with similar missions. The shortage of mental health clinicians is a national crisis that the team at Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Solutions (PandBHS) and the SRB Philanthropy Corp (the Corp) have taken on. During the pandemic, the need for mental health services exploded. In response, PandBHS began its expansion. Addressing the Shortage of Mental Health Professionals …A Catalyst in the Future of Mental Health MEDICAL MINUTES By Deborah Sacks-Wilner
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