THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 6 NOV 2023-JAN 2024 Sticks Cigars Page 10 Meyer & Depew Company Page 25 Far Hills Country Day School Page 32 Advanced Frequency Energy Spa Page41 Pets’ Corner Page 8 Creative Corner Page 16 Close To Home Page 20 HOME & DESIGN Pages 22-29 Hints for the Home- Fair Street Interiors Page 26 Real Estate Corner Page28 Community News- Home Care Life Page 30 KIDZ CONNECTION Pages 31-35 Teen Voice Page 33 Family Adventures Page 34 HEALTH & WELLNESS Pages 36-45 Slice of Life Page 36 Health Hotline Page 38 Fit & Healthy- Pratt Personal Training Page 42 Mind The Mind Page 43 Senior Corner Page 44 COMMUNITY CALENDAR Pages 46-47 House of Worship- Faith, Hope & Joy Page 48 Kathy Block Kat Block graduated college, Summa Cum Laude, with a degree in Creative Writing and English Literature. She subsequently began taking classes at the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey. When her fellow students began buying her artwork, she was invited to join the faculty. That was twenty-seven years ago, and she is still teaching there. She also took classes at the du Cret School of Art, and she continues to teach there as well. She has taught art at the Middle and High Schools for Middlesex, Monmouth, and Union counties. She was the Art Director at the Bruriah High School for girls in Elizabeth. She has taught at the Passaic County Arts Center and the Plainfield Senior Citizen Center. She conducts workshops for Union County’s Teen Arts Festival and juries Somerset Counties’ Teen Arts Festivals. Additionally, she does mixed media workshops throughout the state. Kat illustrated two children’s books and a YouTube video, and she designed the posters for Union County Jazzfests. Her work was featured in the 2010 release “Remember Me,” starring Pierce Brosnan and Robert Pattinson. She has won numerous awards, has participated in numerous group shows, and has had several solo shows of her work. She has also juried many art shows. More information can be found on her website: Katblock.com. THE CONNECTION MAGAZINES TEAM Donna Reina, Georgeann Agaisse, Heather Silver, David Pereyra, Patty Herman, Alicia Singman 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 TheWINNERof the Maid Men Fake Ad in our September issue is Charlie Carretti of Somerville! He won a gift certificate to BAM Desserts in Somerset. Congratulations! 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... Welcome to the enchanting world of winter! As the November Holiday issue unfolds, we are thrilled to embark on a joyous journey filled with warmth, gratitude, and the spirit of togetherness. This special edition is dedicated to celebrating the cherished traditions of Thanksgiving, Christmas and Hanukkah, as we embrace the beauty and magic that winter brings. Our new feature, Close to Home, will ensure you have a season filled with festive celebrations, joyful gatherings, and unforgettable experiences. At the heart of this issue lies our commitment to supporting local businesses. We believe in fostering a sense of community and encouraging everyone to shop small, especially during this time of year. Our team has handpicked a selection of incredible businesses that are sure to captivate your attention. By bringing them to the forefront of our distribution, we aim to connect these businesses with customers who appreciate their unique offerings. As you peruse the pages of this issue, allow your imagination to soar and your creativity to flourish. Discover delightful gift ideas for your loved ones and uncover the latest trends in holiday décor, style and fashion from our local business owners. Looking to make a difference in your community? In this edition, we have an exciting article about the many volunteering opportunities available at Life Hospice, Life Home Care, or Life Ride; there are numerous ways to contribute. Donating your time is a rewarding opportunity for anyone interested. Check out the Community News article for all the details! If you’re looking for something fun to do to get in the holiday spirit, read our Family Adventures article. Joanne Kleinle recommends visiting the German Christmas Market where there is a plethora of delightful, seasonal activities to choose from. From the kids to the grandparents, the whole family will enjoy this holiday event. Please see the article for more details. In the Glorious Moment is the title of the artwork that graces our cover. The scene brings to mind a beautiful, crisp, fall day accompanied by a colorful palette of turning leaves. Kathy Block says of her piece, “the bright sun burning through the foliage on a spectacular clear day captured my attention.” She is also inspired by interesting patterns and textures. We hope this November Holiday issue fills your heart with joy and anticipation for the festivities ahead. Whatever holiday you celebrate during this time, we wish you a winter season brimming with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Embrace the magic of this extraordinary time, and may it bring you closer to those who matter most. Happy holidays from all of us here at The Connection Magazines. With Warm Regards, Anna Petro, Publisher A Note From Our Publisher... CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Meg Ahern, Nicole Beeney, Gail Bicknell, ASID, CAPS, Carolyn Hanson, Joanne Kleinle, Trish Mahoney, Ellyn Mantell, Dr. Michael Osit, James Pratt, Polina Semenoff, CPDT-KA, Dr. Vince Sferra, DC DIBCN, Samson Silver, Johanna Wiseman Page HOLIDAY CHEER pages 12-21
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