THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 6 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2026 8 Medical Minutes: Performance Ortho 11 Financial Forum: Shapiro CPAs 12 Tax Talk: Kingswood Tax and Business Services, LLC 14-21 SHOPPING, DINING, BEAUTY & EVENTS 14 Valentine’s Day Gift Inspirations 16 Family Adventures: Joanne Kleinle 18 Connection Community Champions: NJ Ballroom Dancers 20 Creative Corner: Carolyn Hanson 21 Campers & Caviar: Serafina Perrotto 22-24 KIDZ CONNECTION 22 Teen Voice: Siya Gokhale 23 Shelf Awareness: Sonia Prabhakar & Isabella Santos 26-29 SENIOR LIVING 26 Slice of Life: Ellyn Mantell 28 Senior Corner: Ellyn Mantell 28 Community News: Heath Village 30-35 HEALTH & WELLNESS 30 Mind the Mind: Dr. Michael Osit 32 Health Hotline: NMR 34 Food for Thought: Lori Kolodin 35 Health Hotline: Balance & Flow 36-40 HOME & DESIGN 36 Hints for the Home: Fair Street Interiors 38 Real Estate Corner: Johanna Wiseman 42-43 COMMUNITY CALENDAR 44 Commends: Red Door Real Estate Maura Donahue Title of Artwork: Serenity Medium: acrylic painting on stretched canvas Maura Donahue is an acrylic painter from Woodbridge, New Jersey specializing in portraiture and still lifes. Initially self-taught starting at a young age, Maura took advanced art classes throughout school. In her late twenties she began to build a brand and a following for herself on social media as well as creating her website and online shops. Years later Maura studied at duCret Art Academy in Plainfield, New Jersey (where she now runs the Work in Progress Art Club). She also participated in the Openings Artist residency in Lake George, New York. Maura participates in many juried art shows around New Jersey. She has also been featured in publications such as Breaker Magazine and Soup Can Magazine. She continues to create personal work including self-portraits and food-related still lifes, as well as working with clients to create commissions. 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 Norma Lucero of Bridgewater. Norma won a gift certificate to Stone Tavern in Bridgewater. 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 Bridgewater-Somerville 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. Our gorgeous cover was created by Maura Donahue and is titled, Serenity. This painting is particularly significant to the artist as the images in it represent concepts that define what serenity means to Maura. She explains, “The hand reaching up symbolizes hope. The butterflies represent freedom. And the sunrise represents a new start.” Her painting truly depicts what the word serenity would look like in art form! Read our Hints for the Home by Gail Bicknell which features a discussion of “Color and Mood” within home décor. Not only does she provide tips on how to choose the right color but also recommends some iconic ones to incorporate into your favorite rooms. She reminds us that, “Color is deeply personal. Identify what you’re attracted to. And enjoy!” 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, Siya Gokhale, Carolyn Hanson, Joanne Kleinle, Lori Kolodin, Ellyn Mantell, Dr. Joseph Mejia, Dr. Michael Osit, Serafina Perrotto, Sonia Prabhakar, Isabella Santos, Dr. Vince Sferra, Robert Shapiro, Frank Walko, Chris Wilson, Johanna Wiseman
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