THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 6 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2025 7 Financial Forum: Shapiro CPAs 8 Community News: JFS 10-17 SHOPPING, DINING, BEAUTY & EVENTS 10 Valentine’s Day Gift Inspirations 11 Commends: The Now Massage 14 Teen Voice: Adithya Bharath 16 Commends: Sab’s Collectibles 18-24 HOME & DESIGN 18 Commends: Kope Electric 19 Commends: Alber’s Fireplaces 20 Real Estate Corner: Johanna Wiseman 22 Creative Corner: Carolyn Hanson 23 Hints for the Home: Fair Street Interiors 24 Art of Living: Barry Farber, Diamond Minds 26-27 SENIOR LIVING 26 Senior Corner: Ellyn Mantell 27 Slice of Life: Ellyn Mantell 28-33 HEALTH & WELLNESS 28 Health Hotline: NMR 30 Mind the Mind: Dr. Michael Osit 31 Medical Minutes: Performance Ortho 32 Food for Thought: Lori Kolodin, MPH,RD 34-35 COMMUNITY CALENDAR 36 Family Adventures - Joanne Kleinle Leila Zhou Title of Artwork: March on Abbey Road Leila Zhou is a junior at Bridgewater-Raritan High School with a deep passion for art that began when she first picked up a paintbrush at the age of 5. Her love for creativity has only grown since then, leading her to illustrate three children's books and design the cover for one. Leila is particularly fascinated by the intersection of art and science, often exploring the chemistry behind her creations while enjoying the tactile experience of working with both paint and science kits. Outside of her artistic pursuits, Leila is a key player on her school's girls JV volleyball team, where she shines as a powerful outside hitter. When she’s not immersed in art, science, or volleyball, she enjoys spending time with her family’s beagles, Avocado and Nutmeg, alongside her twin sister. THE CONNECTION MAGAZINE'S TEAM PUBLISHED BY Donna Reina, Georgeann Agaisse, Heather Silver, Patty Herman, Alicia Singman 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 Rolling in the Dough Fake ad in the November issue is Doug Dzwonczyk of Bridgewater.. Doug won a gift certificate to The Salted Lime in Somerville. Next Issue April! Advertising deadline March 21, 2025 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! As we say goodbye to last year, let’s look ahead to a bright and promising year filled with opportunities, connections, and community spirit. With February upon us, we’re excited to bring you The February issue of the Bridgewater-Somerville Connection, your trusted resource for all things local. This month, we celebrate the joy of shopping small and supporting the incredible businesses that make our community thrive. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, whether you’re looking for a unique treasure, a personalized touch, or simply the convenience of shopping close to home, our local businesses are ready to help you find the perfect gift. Their personalized service and commitment to quality set them apart—and they’re right here in your neighborhood. In addition to celebrating local businesses, The Connection Magazine is your onestop guide for all your needs, whether you’re exploring health and wellness, financial planning, real estate, home remodeling, or decorating ideas. Looking for fun ways to make the most of these winter months? Be sure to explore our Community Calendar in print or online! It’s packed with exciting activities for children and adults alike. Winter is the perfect time to discover all that our community has to o er, and we’re here to help you stay connected to the best events and happenings. Don’t miss our Family Adventures column, “Wrap Up and Get Outside.” Even though it’s cold out, there are plenty of fun and educational activities to participate in this winter. Joanne Kleinle gives the run down on the programs being o ered by the Environmental Education Center in Basking Ridge. Visit them to learn all about maple sugaring or to boost your step count on a “Woodland Walk.” There are also many programs geared exclusively to kids. And remember to dress WARM! Once you read about the “Social Media Rental Scam” in our Real Estate Corner, you will never make a move without an agent. Listen to Johanna Wiseman’s sound advice and secure professional representation to avoid fraudulence. Leila Zhou, a student from Bridgewater-Raritan High School, is our February cover artist. The delightful and human-like penguins look right at home on the street of this idyllic town. She was inspired by the Beatles’ album cover, “Abbey Road,” depicting the band members crossing the street. Leila named her piece, March on Abbey Road and was motivated by “envisioning a world where all of us could share the Earth peacefully and respectfully.” As we embark on this New Year together, I want to take a moment to thank you, our readers, for your continued support. It’s your enthusiasm for local businesses and your commitment to our community that inspire us to create a magazine that truly connects us all. Here’s to a February filled with love, connection, and plenty of local discoveries. Keep this issue of The Connection Magazine at your fingertips, on your co ee table or kitchen counter, as your go-to guide for everything you need, all in one place. We’re proud to be your partner in making this community a wonderful place to live, work, and play. Warm wishes, Anna Petro Publisher, The Connection Magazine A Note From Our Publisher... CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Adithya Bharath, Gail Bicknell, Carolyn Hanson, Joanne Kleinle, Lori Kolodin, Ellyn Mantell, Katrina Musto, Dr. Michael Osit, Dr. Vincent Sferra, Robert Shapiro, Gary Steck, Johanna Wiseman
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