VOLUME LIX JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 2022 Bridgewater, Branchburg, Hillsborough, Martinsville, Raritan, Somerville Bridgewater-Somerville Edition HEALTH HOTLINE The Big Medicaid Lie FAMILY ADVENTURES The Canadian Rockies: Banff & Lake Louise MIND THE MIND Family Cohesiveness - Together But Alone PLAY TO WIN Details on page 6
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THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 6 JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 2022 theconnectionsnj.com TABLE OF CONTENTS ON THE COVER Debbie Tintle..................................Page 8 CONNECTION COMMENDS Woolverton Inn...............................Page 22 Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa.................................Page 35 Pets’ Health – Kind Veterinary Care Center. ........Page 10 SPOTLIGHT ON SOMERVILLE SECTION..........................................Page 16 KIDZ CONNECTION SECTION.......Page 17 SUMMER FUN SECTION Eat, Drink, Celebrate ............. Pages 18-21 What About Wine – Cree Wine. ......................................Page 19 Family Adventures..........................Page 20 DESTINATION SUMMER SECTION ................................. Pages 22-23 Slice of Life......................................Page 25 HOME & DESIGN SECTION... Pages 26-31 Real Estate Corner. ........................Page 26 Random Connections. ....................Page 27 SENIOR LIVING SECTION...... Pages 32-34 Health Hotline – APros/Application Pros..................Page 32 Senior Corner..................................Page 34 HEALTH & WELLNESS SECTION.................................. Pages 35-41 Health Hotline – Dr. Matthew Lanum........................Page 37 Medical Minutes – NMR.................Page 38 Mind the Mind................................Page 40 COMMUNITY CALENDAR. .........Pages 42-43 Community News – Jewish Family Service.....................Page 44 Welcome to the June issue of the Bridgewater-Somerville Connection! With summer just around the corner, our Summer Fun & Destination Summer sections will focus on the things that bring families and friends together - food and activities along with great conversations. The highlighted destinations are for a day or weekend getaway that are only a car ride away and great dining options for those lovely summer days and nights. As a community magazine, we strive to optimize our readers’ experience with BOTH our print and digital media to attract the widest audience. OUR POPULAR DIGITAL FEATURES Let’s shout it out for our LOCAL businesses! We LOVE our LOCAL businesses and the COMMENDS articles highlight their success. Each article features their stories, expertise, and vision. We hope that as our valued readers you appreciate us showcasing their products & services, the deals they offer and the stories behind their businesses. Additionally, find articles on Health & Wellness, Senior Living, Cutting-Edge Medical Technology, Family Laws, Travel & more on our BLOG. Written by industry experts, they are loaded with information and insights: theconnectionsnj.com/ latest-news Gracing the cover is a painting by local artist Debbie Tintle. The watercolor artwork is entitled “Secret Garden”. Debbie told us “The cat's name was Pinknose, because her nose was white until she ate and then it turned bright pink. Pinknose came in out of the woods and decided to be a house cat. She lived for 17 years”. Please read her 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 A NOTE FROM OUR PUBLISHER WINNER WINNER! The Bridgewater-Somerville spring issue ‘Spot the Fake’ ad winner is Rosemarie Cavallo of Bridgewater. Rosemarie won a gift certificate to Hand and Stone Massage & Facial Spa in Hillsborough. Summer Fun! EAT, DRINK & CELEB TE! Founded by the Late Robin Fand PUBLISHER Anna Petro OFFICE MANAGER Donna Reina EDITORIAL & PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Jody Varvaro DIGITAL COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING MANAGER Prachi Jain ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES Patty Herman, Alicia Singman CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Chris Cree MW, Kate Gullo, LSW, Carolyn Hanson, Dr. Matthew Lanum, Ellyn Mantell, Dr. Michael Osit, Jill Stolz, Dr. Claudia Tamas, PT, DPT, Goldie Ribiat, Dan Rosenberg, Johanna Wiseman 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. 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 300 people took part in our Spot The Fake Ad Contest in the April-May issue. Congratulations to everyone who “spotted” Matchmaker Microbots. The winner, selected randomly from a list of all those who entered and provided the correct answer, is Rosemarie Cavallo of Bridgewater. The winner received a gift certificate to Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa in Hillsborough. SPOT THE FAKE!
THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 7 JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 2022 theconnectionsnj.com
THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 8 JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 2022 theconnectionsnj.com Debbie Tintle received a BFA from Middlebury College, Middlebury, Vermont. Her teachers include Gladys Russell, William Senior, Ron Lent, and Betty Lou Schlemm, AWS, of Rockport, Mass. From 1996 – 1998, she served as president of the New Jersey Water Color Society. She is a signature member of the Pennsylvania Watercolor Society, Missouri Watercolor Society, North East Watercolor Society, Hudson Valley Art Assoc., Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Art Club (former National Board Member) Garden State Watercolor Society, American Artists’ Professional League (NJ Board Member 1984- 1992), and the North Shore Art Assoc., Gloucester, Mass. Since 1981 the artist has received over 150 awards, 18 in national juried exhibitions. Most recent national awards include the American Frame Co. Award in the Philadelphia Watercolor Club National Exhibition (2000), the Winston Churchill Painting Award in the Missouri National Watercolor Exhibition, held at the Winston Churchill Memorial Library (2001), Best in Show in the Missouri Watercolor Society Invitational (2002), the Daler-Rowney Award in the 2003 Invitational, also held at the Winston Churchill Memorial ,and the Adelia Raisines Award (1st place, watercolor) in the Hudson Valley Art Association National Exhibition held at Jasper Cropsey’s home in Hastings-on-Hudson, New York. In May, 2001, the United States Coast Guard appointed her an official U.S. Coast Guard Artist. Two of her paintings were included in the Louisiana State School of Veterinary Medicine International Animal Art Exhibitions (2001 and 2003), while another appears in THE BEST OF WATERCOLOR III (Rockport Publishers, 1999) The artist’s works are included in the collections of Ortho Diagnostics ( 5 paintings ), Pfizer Pharmaceutical World Corporate Headquarters ( 3 paintings ), Crum and Forster ( 5 ), CPC International, Earth Technology Corp., as well as many other corporate and private collections from coast to coast and abroad ( England, Ireland, France, Italy, Spain, and Australia). Working in oils as well as watercolors, the artist is also an avid photographer. Her inspiration comes from ten trips to Europe with a group of gardeners, the coast of New England, the Adirondacks, and the wildlife found in her back yard in Chester, NJ. DEBBIE TINTLE Working in oils as well as watercolors, the artist is also an avid photographer. Her inspiration comes from ten trips to Europe with a group of gardeners, the coast of New England, the Adirondacks, and the wildlife found in her back yard in Chester, NJ. ON THE COVER
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THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 10 JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 2022 theconnectionsnj.com Pets provide unconditional love and companionship so when they require medical care it can be very stressful. It is always heartbreaking when medical treatment options are limited by finances, but it is understandable as care becomes more involved. It is not uncommon to be faced with an estimate of several thousand dollars or more for a very sick or injured pet. Not having a plan in place ahead of time for how to pay for such a situation causes undue stress and can critically delay treatment which can literally cost a life. I used to encourage clients to have a separate savings account set aside for their pet’s medical expenses, particularly in the early days of pet insurance when the system was complicated and payouts were often unfairly low. While this is still never a bad idea, pet insurance plans have evolved to give more predictable and fair payouts and to have much broader coverage options for pet owners to choose from. Like all insurance, pet insurance is an extra expense that when all is well can seem unnecessary. That is, until the unexpected happens. An important aspect of pet insurance that should be mentioned is that it is rarely accepted directly by veterinarians. The advantage of this is that there is total freedom in where you seek veterinary care. This does require pet parents to pay for services when rendered and to make their own claims for reimbursement, but it also keeps the cost of veterinary health care down. If veterinarians had to employ office staff members to process insurance claims the price of veterinary care would surely increase. In selecting a pet insurance plan, first focus on finding the best possible coverage for accidents, illness, and injury. Routine, preventative care is the aspect of care for which one can budget, but planning for the unexpected is when insurance matters most. If you and your pet are lucky, you won’t need insurance for broken bones, toxin ingestion, or the like, but as your pet ages, they may develop a chronic condition such as arthritis, diabetes, or cancer. In addition, no insurance company will cover a pre-existing condition, so getting insurance early in life when your pet is healthy or as soon as you adopt an older pet, will help you to maximize the benefits. Pet insurance plans that pay out a percentage of a vet bill are best since they eliminate the guesswork of predicting reimbursement in contrast to a nebulous diagnosis-based payout system. Seek a percentage-based plan with the highest reimbursement percentage and the highest policy maximum then settle on a reasonable deductible you can afford. Focus first on coverage for accidents, illness, and injury and add preventative care coverage only if it doesn’t make the monthly premium unreasonable. Otherwise, plan to budget for preventative care. In addition, choosing a company with easy and fast claim filing and processing is a must. Ask questions about this when selecting an insurance carrier. No one wants to spend hours making a claim, have to request medical records from the vet every time, or wait forever for reimbursement. Thankfully now that online platforms and smartphone apps are standard, in many instances making a claim has become as easy as snapping a picture of a veterinary bill and submitting it right from your smartphone with reimbursement automatically deposited into your bank account in some instances within a matter of days. Pet insurance programs like these are definitely a solid investment in your pet’s future. THE PRICE OF QUALITY VETERINARY CARE: IS PET INSURANCE WORTH IT? Pet insurance plans have evolved to give more predictable and fair payouts and to have much broader coverage options for pet owners to choose from. Pet insurance plans that pay out a percentage of a vet bill are best since they eliminate the guesswork of predicting reimbursement in contrast to a nebulous diagnosis-based payout system. Seek a percentagebased plan with the highest reimbursement percentage and the highest policy maximum then settle on a reasonable deductible you can afford. PETS’ HEALTH By Andrea S. Freeman, VMD, MS WE ARE KIND Exceptional Care & Compassion Our new state-of-the-art hospital is opening soon! Services will include: • Progressive and Full-Service Veterinary Care • Preventative Medicine • Individualized Treatment Plans • Surgical Services in a State-of-the-Art Surgical Suite • Comprehensive Dentistry and Digital Dental X-ray • Advanced Diagnostics and Ultrasound Imaging • In-house Laboratory Housecall services available now! To learn more or request an appointment, visit www.kindveterinarycare.com 1990 Washington Valley Road, Martinsville, NJ 08836 (732) 484-1743 | www.kindveterinarycare.com KIND V E T E R I N A R Y C A R E C E N T E R ANDREA S . FRE EMAN, VMD, MS
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THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 14 JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 2022 theconnectionsnj.com AAS Tax Services, LLC Branchburg Commons Bldg. 4 Ste. #427 (Executive Suites) 3322 Rt. 22 West Branchburg, NJ 08876 Tel.: 908-231-9500 For information on the firm & other details visit: www.aasTaxServices.com Professional Full Service Tax Office for Individuals and Small Business Entities Andy Adamczuk IRS Licensed Enrolled Agent Tax Experience Since 2001 MS in Accounting BS in Accounting • BS in Finance All Rutgers University, NJ Income Tax Return Preparation, Late Filings, IRS & State Tax Problem Solving, Tax Debt Reduction, Correspondence Audit, Amended Returns, Installment Payments of Tax Liabilities, Planning for Taxes & Other Tax Services Affordable Prices (check prices & discounts on our website) Approved Auto Repair ! @northbranchcarwash 9/5/22. 9/5/22.
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PAGE 17 KIDZ CONNECTION theconnectionsnj.com Education Beyond the Classroom • IN-PERSON or VIRTUAL tutoring •Weeknight orWeekend availability •Will connect with child’s teacher to identify goals for student growth and progress • Consistent communication with parents about child's progress • Currently a 4th grade teacher at East Brunswick Public Schools • Graduate of The College of New Jersey with Masters in Special Education and Bachelors in Elementary Education with concentration in STEM Experience: Call me for more information and scheduling 908-938-6989 briannam.petro@gmail.com Ms. Brianna Petro TUTORING SERVICES for elementary-aged students (pre K-6) in math Following COVID-19 guidelines Creating Confidence, Encouraging Resiliency and Keeping Learning Fun! 908-367-1664 • 908-367-0502 • fullfunpartyrentalfun@gmail.com Affordable Prices Rent for Any Occasion Local Bridgewater Business FULL FUN PARTY RENTAL We rent bounce houses, tables, chairs, tablecloths, coolers and more... Se Hablo Español YMCA SUMMER DAY CAMPS • Mix &match camp options • Traditional multi-activity & specialty day camps • Financial assistance available gscymca.org/camp READY. SET. BRIDGEWATER YMCA A branch of Greater Somerset County YMCA 908 526 0688 SOMERVILLE YMCA A branch of Greater Somerset County YMCA 908 722 4567 REGISTER TODAY Secure your spot and save today at INVENT.ORG/LOCAL
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theconnectionsnj.com EAT, DRINK & CELEBRATE PAGE 19 | Wine Bar Tasting Room Wine Classes Private Event Space Purchase Online | NJ ‘S ONLY MASTER OF WINE CHRIS CREE SHARES HIS CURATED SELECTION OF WINES | START YOUR PERSONAL WINE PROFILE AT: CREEWINECO.COM | 908.200.7772 167 PERRYVILLE RD, HAMPTON, NJ 08827 (Previously The Historic Perryville Inn) An Extraordinar y Wine Experience With its location in the sunny south of France and beautiful Mediterranean climate, the Rhône region is well situated to produce wines that range from some of the best values anywhere in the world of wine to some of the most sought after and expensive classics. The region spans from Vienne, just south of Lyon, for about 200 kilometers south to Avignon, sprawling. It is composed of two main sectors: the Septentrionale (Northern Rhône) and the Meridional (Southern Rhône), and each of these is broken down into smaller sub-appellations. The south is by far the larger in terms of production, with the North accounting for less than 5% of total Rhône wine production, and overall the Rhône is the second-largest wine region in France after Bordeaux. The north and the south are markedly different from each other in terms of climate, terroir, grapes grown, and wine styles. The Northern Rhône lies at a point where the Mediterranean and continental climate influences converge and is cooler overall. The south is full-on Mediterranean - sunny, dry, and warm. The topography is different too, and the north’s vineyards often cling to the steep, rocky, terraced slopes along the narrow river valley. In the south the hills are more rolling, the valley wider. The mix of grapes changes as well, and in the north Syrah is the major grape for the reds, and Viognier, Roussanne, and Marsanne for the whites. In the warmer south, Grenache is the workhorse for the reds, with a host of supporting varieties collectively known as Rhône varietals including Syrah, Mourvèdre, and more blended in. The white can be made from a wide range of grapes including Grenache Blanc, Bourboulenc, Clairette Blanche, Roussanne, and more The Côtes du Rhône AOC makes up about half the region’s production, the vast majority of which are red although some very good rosé and white wines are made as well. The reds are primarily made from Grenache and Syrah, although a host of grapes are permitted including Cinsault, Mourvèdre, and Carignane. They are typically light to medium-bodied, fruity with red fruits and spice, versatile, easy to drink, food-friendly, and generally a great value. Next comes the Côtes du Rhône-Villages, similar wines to the above, but from vineyards deemed to have superior conditions and the ability to produce higher quality wines. The next step up is the individual Appellations, subregions that produced unique wines based on their specific soils, climate, and grape varieties. There are 11 in the south, the most famous of which is Châteauneuf du Pape, made from up to 13 grape varieties including 5 white grapes. Grenache makes up the majority of the blend, and most focus on two or three grapes that include Mourvèdre, and Syrah in the blends. Grown in soils deposited by the meandering Rhône river over millions of years, they are hearty, full-bodied wines that embody the warm sunny region where they are born. The best can age for several decades, and top cuvees from the best producers can run into the $200-300 range. There is also a small production of Chåteauneuf du Pape Blanc produced, a blend of grapes that can include Grenache Blanc, Bourboulenc, Clairette Blanche, Roussanne and more. Gigondas is another well-respected AC in the south, located in the hills of the eastern edge of the region near the jagged peaks of the Dentelles de Montmirail. Similar to Chåteaunuef in grapes composition, it is a perhaps a slightly more rugged, rustic variation on the theme that typically sells for less money, and the top producers are well worth seeking out. The eight northern appellations are located on both banks of the Rhône. On the western steeply terraced side of the river is Côte Rôtie, producing solid, age-worthy wines such as Guigal’s super expensive La Landonne, La Mouline, and La Turque that can start at about $400. Hermitage lies on the right side of the river with world-renowned Jean Louis Chave making one of the most sought-after red wines in the world in the steep granite soils of the massive hill above the town of Tain l’Hermitage. Condrieu and Chåteau Grillet are white wine only appellations on the west bank just south of Côte Rôtie, producing lovely perfumed and aromatic wine from the Viognier grape grown in steeply terraced vineyards. Cornas, Saint Joseph on the left bank, and Crozes Hermitage on the right are regions that were somewhat sleepy and overlooked but have now come into the spotlight for their exceptional Syrah-based reds, as well as a much smaller production of white. The wines of the Côtes du Rhône are generally incredibly versatile, food-friendly, and for the most part extremely affordable. Perfect for summer grilling and entertaining! With a couple of great vintages in the market, it is an excellent time to explore the amazing variety of wines from one of the world’s top wine regions - from everyday affordable to some of the world’s top classics for the cellar - Cheers! Chris Cree, MW Christopher Cree MW is one of only 57 Masters of Wine in the US and is the Founder of the Cree Wine Company, a Wine Bar (with great food and wine), Wine School, Event Space, and online wine seller located in Perryville NJ. CreeWineCo.com WINES OF THE RHÔNE VALLEY - PERFECT FOR SUMMER GRILLING AND ENTERTAINING By Chris Cree MW WHAT ABOUT WINE?
theconnectionsnj.com EAT, DRINK & CELEBRATE PAGE 20 GimmeeGimmeeTees.com You can personalize your own garments! ALL SIZES & COLORS AVAILABLE AFFORDABLE PRICES! Family Fun Community Events Sports Birthdays џ џ џ Artwork Promotion Team Building Company Logos, etc. џ џ Serving Somerset County for over 11 years! 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A popular skiing destination in the winter, especially heli-skiing, I heartily recommend coming in July or August when the snow is just melting and the coldmornings turn sunny and warmby the afternoon. It stays light until after 10 p.m. in the summer, allowing for more leisurely activities as the days stretch out before you. Banff is a bustling ski town, much like Park City, with a downtown consisting of eclectic cafes and restaurants, shops, boutiques and sporting goods stores. The town is anchored by the baronial Fairmont Banff Springs hotel, which was modeled after a Scottish castle. It is a complete resort, offering world-class golf, tennis, horseback riding, bicycle rentals, and even a bowling alley. There are a number of restaurant options as well as boutiques, but a 15-minute walk into town gives you much broader and less expensive options. There is plenty to do in Banff itself, including all levels of hiking, mountain and road biking, rafting on the bright green Bow River that flows throughout the National Park, and gondola rides to the top of Sulpher Mountain where the snow-capped peaks are everywhere you turn, and so much more. Wildlife can be seen here, as well as in other locations in the park. We found ourselves just feet away from a large elk on the path behind our hotel on the first day. Other wildlife we saw on our trip includes marmot, bighorn sheep, moose, hummingbirds, a black bear and a grizzly bear family. However, to really capture the immense beauty of this area, you must spend some time in the Lake Louise area. It’s a 45-minute scenic drive from Banff, or you can stay in the majestic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise which, you guessed it, was modeled after a French chateau. Arriving at Lake Louise is like jumping into a postcard. The clear, blue, glacial lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, offering jaw-dropping views, which can be seen from the easiest walks around the lake to the most difficult hikes up to the top of the peaks. One of my favorite hikes was the Plain of the Six Glaciers hike, a two-hour climb rewarded not just by the view of six glaciers and the back of Lake Louise, but with a homemade lunch at the historic tea house perched at the top of the trail, run by generations of a family that opened it in 1924. Canoeing on the lake is also a popular, and very Canadian, activity. We drove about 20 minutes to take out a canoe on Lake Moraine, which was a deep turquoise color and less populated than Lake Louise. Popular activities in this area include white water rafting on the Kicking Horse River, with rapids ranging from class III to VI, horseback riding, kayaking and canoeing, glacier skiing for those who dare (and are in shape to climb up and ski down), multi-day hiking, and helicopter sightseeing. We arranged a heli-hiking expedition for an entire day, led by a certified heli-hiking guide. A helicopter flew us to the top of a mountain, which felt like landing on another planet. Over the course of a few hours, we made our way across the mountain and down towards a small lake surrounded by shrubbery and wildflowers. We stopped for a delicious, homemade lunch and took time to enjoy the magnificent views and breathe the cool, fresh air. Our helicopter was waiting for us and swooped us up, giving us a tour of the area from above before landing. Had we stayed more than a week, we would have traveled further into British Columbia to Jasper National Park, filled with more pristine glacial lakes, mountains and waterfalls to explore. Still, in one week, we managed to fit in a variety of activities, take a multitude of pictures and just relax and take in one of the most beautiful areas I have ever seen. Whether you come for rigorous hiking, outdoor adventures, excellent golfing or just a beautiful place to unwind, the Canadian Rockies have it all. ADVENTURES FAMILY
theconnectionsnj.com EAT, DRINK & CELEBRATE PAGE 21 "Our Ingredients Are Always Fresh, Never Frozen and Always Delicious!" The Boys are Back! Look for our Grand Opening Soon We are happy to ANNOUNCE our NEW location. Martinsville Plaza 1966 Washington Valley Road, Martinsville, NJ 08836 732-356-3500 • 732-356-1257 BYOB Plan your next celebration with us! www.cafeveneziaofmartinsville.com Curbside Pickup Reserve Your Table On Buckets of Chicken Buffalo Wings Dinner For Two Expires 8/31/22. Not to be combined with any Expires 8/31/22. Not to be combined with any Expires 8/31/22. Not to be combined with any Expires 8/31/22. Not to be combined with any Expires 8/31/22. Not to be combined with any Expires 8/31/22. Not to be combined with any Expires 8/31/22. 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 18.95 Family Chicken Fiesta 12 Pieces of Chicken Double Order of French Fries or Mashed Potatoes Plus 1 lb. of Salad of Choice 30.50 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 40.95 Deluxe Plan 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. 24 Pieces of Chicken 3 lb. Salad of Choice 12 Dinner Rolls $55.95 Economy Plan other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. Ask About DAILY DINE IN Specials Monday-Friday Party packages available for Father's Day, Graduations, July 4th, Home & Office Parties, Picnics, BBQ's and Labor Day 50 Pieces of Chicken 6 lb. Salad of Choice 24 Dinner Rolls $109.95 OPEN July 4th & Labor Day CONGRATULATIONS Class of 2022! 16 Buffalo Wings 20.50 24 Buffalo Wings 30.50 48 Buffalo Wings 59.95 100 Buffalo Wings 118.95 8 Pc. Chicken 14.75 12 Pc. Chicken 22.25 16 Pc. Chicken 29.75 20 Pc. Chicken 36.95
theconnectionsnj.com DESTINATION SUMMER PAGE 22 Imagine stepping through a portal where you can leave behind worldly cares and experience a feast for your senses. From the delicious breakfast to the lush gardens and pastoral views, the Woolverton Inn, an exquisite getaway in Stockton, N.J., is fondly referred to as “a faraway place close to home.” The natural beauty of this historic inn and property is breathtaking. The estate invites guests to stroll about on 10 acres of park-like grounds adjacent to 300 acres of preserved farmland in Hunterdon County, New Jersey’s center for agriculture. Visitors are encouraged to spend time outside, enjoying the peaceful, natural setting any time of year. The inn is open year-round, 7 days a week and sits high above the Delaware River, a few miles from the popular tourist destinations of New Hope, PA and Lambertville, NJ. Guest room accommodations offer comfort and luxury: gas fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, outdoor and indoor seating. Breakfast is a treat - gourmet quality, and freshly made each morning, served in the dining room, on the veranda, or delivered graciously to your guest room. Start with freshly baked muffins or scones, followed by fresh fruit or homemade granola. Main entrees could be Gran-Marnier French toast, eggs Florentine, garden-vegetable omelets, or fresh berry pancakes. All are served with specialty bacon or sausage and garnished beautifully. By design, there are no televisions in the guest rooms, but this leaves time for conversation, reading, music, board games, and a stop at the pasture fence to feed the adorable sheep. There are many activities and sites to see in the area, from biking, hiking, walks in the charming, country towns, specialty shopping, wineries, museums, art galleries and more. Dining options range from fine cuisine to casual pubs, with river views, lively in-town bars, unique restaurants, farm to table, and amazing menu selections. People come to Woolverton Inn from near and far, for various reasons, but everyone hopes to relax and get away from their busy lives. Woolverton is an ideal place for couples, friends, and family to spend quality time together, reconnect, or celebrate a special occasion. The idyllic setting of the inn is also perfect for a marriage proposal or honeymoon. (Staff will gladly helpmake your stay romantic, with fresh red roses, sumptuous chocolate truffles, and champagne ready on arrival.) Expecting parents can plan a timely “baby-moon” to rest up before the big day. In-room massages are available to help you relax and feel pampered. Woolverton Inn is a full service “destination” wedding venue, hosting elopements, micro-weddings, and spectacular large affairs for up to 200 guests that blend a casual country feel with elegance and grace. Local companies might send their leadership teams for creative planning sessions, training workshops, off-site meetings, and team building. The inn is also a perfect place for yoga retreats, art workshops, and specialized photo shoots. A warm, enchanting world of peace, relaxation, restoration, and romance awaits at this picturesque retreat in the heart of central NJ. Book your stay today, online at www.woolvertoninn.com or by phone at 609- 397-0802. Woolverton Inn 6 Woolverton Road Stockton, NJ 08559 Woolvertoninn.com A LUXURIOUS, ENCHANTING ESCAPE - CLOSE TO HOME COMMENDS CONNECTION Experience the tranquility of nature on 10 acres of exquisite grounds. Elegant Accommodations • Retreats Weddings • Elopements • 6 Private Cottages, plus 8 Guest Rooms in the Manor House. Your Faraway Place, Close to Home Woolverton Inn Bed & Breakfast 6 Woolverton Rd. • Stockton, NJ 08559 609-397-0802 • www.woolvertoninn.com
theconnectionsnj.com DESTINATION SUMMER PAGE 23 Four Sisters Winery Tao Winery LLC Celebrating 38 years of Winemaking Daily Wine Tasting up to 8 wines $5 MURDER MYSTERY DINNER June 5, July 17, Aug 7, Sept 11, Oct 2, Nov 13, Dec 11 BAREFOOT GRAPE STOMPING June 11 & 25; July 9 & 23; Aug 13 & 27; Sept 3 & 17 Oct 8 & 22; Nov 5 & 19; Dec 3 & 17 LIVE MUSIC on the DECKWeekends through Oct 31st ~ 12:30– 5pm Booking Weddings and Private Parties Call or Email for Dates Hours Open Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 10am - 5pm Sat and Sun 10am - 6pm – Closed Wed www.foursisterswinery.com 908-475-3671 foursisterswinery@gmail.com –
THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 24 JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 2022 theconnectionsnj.com A Pinch of LOCAL FLAVOR Panzanella Salad with Roasted Tomatoes INGREDIENTS INSTRUCTIONS Submitted by: • 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil • 1 small loaf French bread,cut into 1”cubes • 1 tsp kosher salt • 1 tsp sugar • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 2 large tomatoes, sliced in 4-5 horizontal slices • 1 seedless cucumber, unpeeled, cut into ½” pieces • 1 red pepper, seeded, cut into 1” pieces • 1 yellow pepper, seeded, cut into 1” pieces • 20 large fresh basil leaves cut into thin slivers • 2 cups spring mix salad greens • Shaved parmesan cheese Dressing: Whisk together 3 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar ½ tsp Dijon mustard 2 cloves garlic, crushed Salt & pepper ½ cup extra virgin olive oil Place tomatoes on a sheet pan covered with parchment paper, cut side up. Drizzle with a small amount of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar; add 2 minced cloves of garlic, kosher salt, pepper and a light sprinkle of sugar. Roast at 450’ for 25-30 minutes until tomatoes are concentrated and beginning to caramelize. Cool and cut into chunks. While the tomatoes are roasting, heat the oil in a large sauté pan. Add bread cubes and salt and cook over low-medium heat tossing frequently for 10 minutes until lightly browned on all sides. Add more oil if needed. Mix all salad ingredients and dressing, adding croutons and tomatoes just before serving. I’m hooked. If you have never tried Tapestry Crochet you are in for a delightful surprise. Tapestry crochet uses simple stitches to make intriguing designs and patterns in 2 or more colors where the resulting fabric is reversible and dense. It is perfect for purses, wallets, cases, blankets, and even area rugs. I just finished 2 cases; one for phone cables in 2 colors and another for my laptop in 3 colors. Tapestry crochet is to crochet, as Intarsia is to knitting. It’s a method of introducing detailed design into the body of your project. In knitting, the design colors are carried in the back of the work creating floats. However, in tapestry crochet, the floats are not visible and a double sided fabric is generated. How tapestry crochet works: • All colors are carried along in every stitch and row throughout the project. • The working yarn color covers the other non-working colors hiding them with each stitch, making the fabric reversible. So if your project has 3 colors, 1 color creates the stitch and the remaining 2 colors are hidden. • Colors are easily transitioned from one to another according to the design. The most critical step is to switch colors with the last yarn over (yo) to complete the stitch. This makes an invisible transition between colors. See https://youtu.be/_ wGsqonucco for details on the transition technique. • All stitches are the same; either single, half-double or double crochet throughout the project. Single crochet is the most common. • The design is printed on a grid, like a graph paper. Rows are numbered and start with 1. The pattern design is read from the bottom to top and from right to left. Each box in a row represents one stitch and one color. This example shows a 2 color design. While working the white stitches, the red yarn is held in the back and covered by the white yarn. In the red sections, the red yarn is the working yarn and the white is held in the back and covered. It’s easy to mark progress with a sticky note along the active row. • Tapestry crochet can be worked in the round or in rows. For purses, wallets, and cases, I like using tightly spun mercerized cotton. This is especially helpful when using a small hook, 2.75 mm or C. This assures minimal yarn splitting and creates a smooth surface. For blankets, use any of your favorite yarns. There is no limit. It’s fun and easy to create your own designs. Just grab a sheet of graph paper or create a grid in Excel. Use colors or symbols to represent your design. Tapestry crochet works great for letterings, geometric designs, etc. Find lots of designs on Pinterest or full projects on Ravelry.com Some tips: - It’s tedious to work with designs that switch colors every 1 or 2 stitches. Beautiful, but slow going. - Always check progress against the chart. It’s easy to choose the wrong color or forget to change colors. - Don’t allow for too much slack with the carried yarns and don’t pull too tightly. Too much slack means that the carried yarns are visible on the reverse side. Pulling too tightly to remove slack will cause the stitches to compact horizontally making the fabric tight and causing the work to decrease in width. - Working in the round results in a cleaner design since the right side is always in the front. The cherry design above was worked in the round while the flower design is in rows. You can see that the stems of the cherries are more clearly defined than the flower stems. I’m onto my 3rd tapestry crochet project now; a wristlet with multiple pockets in a geometric design. This one is going to be an original in fuchsia and slate gray. Still gathering inspiration! Let me know if you try it. Carolyn Hanson is a local knitting and crochet designer, teacher, and fiber artist. She can be contacted at cchanson3@gmail.com. CROCHETING FROM A CHART: TAPESTRY CROCHET By Carolyn Hanson CREATIVE CORNER
THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 25 JUNE/JULY/AUGUST 2022 theconnectionsnj.com Our car, with its out-of-place New Jersey license plates, wended its way around the winding loops, ascending through the labyrinth that was the parking garage. I felt myself tipping into the beginning of vertigo, and steadied my gaze forward to prevent the impending dizziness I was certain awaited me. Finally, I felt our car stabilize and reach the top level, as all four pairs of eyes locked into our parking spot; we wanted absolute assurance we could locate our car when it was time to leave. This stacked building was a maze of circuitous routes, and my husband, Bruce and sister, Michele and brother-in-law, Ira, were all feeling a bit overcome, even before we looked out at the horizon. It was a spacious view of trees and homes dotting the vista, and we felt the height in the distance we had traveled. The sign denoting the level, 5 B West, was painted a deep blue-purple, somewhere between indigo and violet. Again, all four pairs of eyes peered out of the darkness to find the elevator. As we entered the elevator, leaving the parking garage, anticipation took over as we wondered what we would see when the doors opened. The minute we left the elevator, all my senses were heightened. The sounds were rhythmic, pulsating, musical, bells ringing and people chattering. I didn’t know where to look first! There were the glamorous young long-haired “cocktail waitresses” in shiny black high stiletto heels, extremely short black skirts that barely covered what they needed to cover, and low cut red bustiers carrying elaborate drinks on compact gold trays; the multitude of people with cigarettes askew in their mouths, hanging on to the slot machine arms with hopeful stares; the croupiers shuffling cards invitingly at enticing tables. The combination of wafting smoke mixed withmulticultural foods caused confusion in my olfactory system, not certain what was edible versus piped in for effect. I wanted to taste the food, but the smoke hung heavily creating a pall over the bulk of the floor, as well as a film in my mouth. Touching the walls to determine whether the texture was real or created in a wallpaper factory kept me busy as Bruce found the table where he felt comfortable. There to be his cheerleader, as I sat next to him, I was fixated on the sultry color nail polish the croupier was wearing, how it popped against her dark skin, how it would disappear against mine, skin that is pale and colorless. Struggling to follow the rules the croupier was discussing with Bruce, I felt like a fish out of water, trying to gather oxygen, looking around for my sister, Michele, and brother-in-law, Ira, who had found a slot machine to entertain them. The irrevocable pact Bruce had made with the three of us, who were there to support him, was that he would play 6 hands in order to prepare for his golf trip to Las Vegas. He anticipated some gambling at night, and never one to be unprepared, he wanted to be knowledgeable; had done his research on the game he anticipated playing. In all honesty, the six hands went very quickly, and although many colorful chips of different denominations were on the table at times, Bruce managed to walk away having won a bonus of five dollars. We saw his ability to leave the table with chips as a major accomplishment. We had decided that a fun dinner at Shake Shack in Boca Raton was in keeping with the day. We were great fans and wanted them to experience it. Shake Shack is casual, relaxed and busy, but rarely crowded. The outdoor area has an overhang and long tables, which remind me of the days of picnics and country fairs. It was a perfect night for burgers, fries, and yes, shakes! Since Michele and Ira were new to Shake Shack, I felt as an ambassador for them. Ira commented that the strawberry shake was thick and creamy, delicious and flavorful, infused with their special custard. They are known for that custard. A few years ago, we met Danny Meyer, the restauranteur/owner and Bruce asked him, “What is the special ingredient that makes the custard so outstanding?” Without missing a beat, Danny said, “Love!” Our experience, one of visiting the Casino was also filled with love. One of the joys of being in Florida has been spending time with our family. This simple slice of our lives will remain with me, knowing that we shared something mundane, yet extremely meaningful. One of the joys of being in Florida has been spending time with our family. This simple slice of our lives will remain with me, knowing that we shared something mundane, yet extremely meaningful. THE FLORIDA CASINO SLICE OF LIFE By Ellyn Mantell
theconnectionsnj.com HOME & DESIGN PAGE 26 Exp. 8/31/22 Fully Insured • Free Estimates A couple of months ago, a neighbor contacted me for advice. She was planning a trip to Florida to help her elderly aunt sell a home and move to an assisted living facility. Could my neighbor have simply searched the internet? Yes, andmaybe she had already given that a try. She would have seen dozens, if not hundreds, of results without any idea of the professional experience or quality of service those candidates could provide. Rather than relying on the internet and contacting a complete stranger, my neighbor hoped I would be able to help her find an excellent local real estate agent to take charge of the sale process. Naturally, I was happy to help, and I found an area expert with the right skillset and personality for the job. I also verified that the agent I was referring to was a specialist in the target area. My neighbor followed up to let me know how pleased she was with the referral and subsequent sale. In another recent example, I worked with a new client who needed to sell her current home and find a suitable downsize nearby. The client was referred to me by her brother, a Realtor living in another state. My outof-state colleague found me via our company’s national database. He felt confident after speaking with me and reviewing my sales record, that he was placing his sister in the hands of a competent, experienced fellow agent. We connected well and accomplished the goal: a successful sale and coordinated purchase of a charming new home that met the client’s criteria for size and location. Referrals are an important part of the real estate business. If you’re looking to move, or invest in a new area, do you want to take your chances with an unknown real estate agent? Or, would you prefer an introduction to a trustworthy professional, backed by your home real estate agent? As Realtors, we are able to call upon our network to find like-minded professionals in other localities. We know what to look for in terms of area specialty, experience, and temperament. Our clients deserve and appreciate the invaluable support of a personal introduction. Your real estate agent is your guide to any area. The VIP tour includes properties, of course, but also a heads up into current market conditions, local customs and legal requirements for a property transaction. Additional benefits are recommendations for other service providers you may need, like a mover, home inspector, and attorney. When you establish a professional relationship based on trust, you feel good about future encounters with that person. Just as you would rely on your local real estate agent at home, be sure to ask them for input when you need a referral to another area. For yourself, and your friend/family, it’s one more valuable layer of assurance. Johanna Wiseman of RE/MAX Preferred Professionals can be reached at 908-705-0652, or visit www.MyBridgewaterHome.com Your real estate agent is your guide to any area. The VIP tour includes properties, of course, but also a heads up into current market conditions, local customs and legal requirements for a property transaction. PERSONAL REFERRALS LEAD TO GREAT RESULTS By Johanna Wiseman REAL ESTATE CORNER
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