THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 6 NOV 2026-JAN 2027 theconnectionsnj.com Denise Tomahatsch Keszthelyi Title: Alone and Happy Medium: Acrylic Paint on Canvas Board My artistic journey didn't begin in a traditional ne art studio—it was built on a foundation of structure, space, and design. After earning my degree in Architecture from NYIT, I spent years working in New York City for various rms and ultimately with our family business, specializing in interior design. A major focus of my work was selecting fabrics, studying patterns, and conducting detailed color analysis to transform living environments. Immersing myself in color theory and textile patterns day to day began to shift how I looked at the world around me. I found myself drawn away from rigid, manufactured structures and fascinated by the organic canvas of nature. I started noticing the astonishing color harmonies, intricate repeating patterns, and tiny, delicate structures hidden along forest oors—and the whimsical creatures that inhabit them. Driven by this intrigue, I began sculpting lifelike mushrooms out of polymer clay. What started as a fascination with miniature form quickly grew: I began melding these sculpted pieces into multi-dimensional dioramas, which ultimately evolved into textural paintings. Bringing together my eye for color, texture, and spatial design has allowed this passion to blossom in ways I never expected. Today, my paintings continue to grow in scale and dimension, but my love for hand-sculpting mushrooms remains at the very heart of my creative process. Please take a moment to explore my current paintings, studio peeks, and videos on my Instagram @pook_n_munch or shop my small hand-sculpted mushrooms and original small-scale works in my ETSY Shop, Pook n Munch. THE CONNECTION MAGAZINE'S TEAM PUBLISHED BY Georgeann Agaisse, Heather Silver, Alicia Singman, Jeanette Vogel, Kristi Abbey, Max Silver 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 Assignment Armor is Aryan V. of Bridgewater. Aryan won a gift certificate to Cafe Venezia in Martinsville. HISTORY MAKER: ARYAN IS OUR YOUNGEST WINNER EVER! Next Issue February! Advertising deadline January 8, 2027 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... As we welcome the holiday season, I find myself reflecting on the many blessings of the past year. Thanksgiving brings a special time for family traditions, celebrations, gratitude, and togetherness. The holidays have always held a special place in my heart. As my family continues to grow, I cherish both our treasured traditions and the new memories we create. Sharing laughter, stories, and time together reminds me that life's greatest blessings are the moments we share with those we love. The holidays are also a time to pause, reflect, and find inspiration. In this issue, our Faith, Hope & Joy section o ers a thoughtfully curated selection of local places where you can find peace, inspiration, and a sense of connection during this beautiful season. As you begin preparing for holiday celebrations, I encourage you to look no further than your own wonderful communities. Your local business owners are ready to welcome you with unique gifts, personalized service, and special finds you simply won't discover online or in a shopping mall. Saturday, November 28th, is Small Business Saturday, a perfect opportunity to show our appreciation for the hardworking business owners who make our communities so special. Before heading out, explore our Holiday Shopping Guide for thoughtful gift ideas, local treasures, and inspirations for everyone on your list. And let's not forget the joy of gathering around a table! Our Wine & Dine Directory is filled with wonderful local dining options, whether you're planning a festive evening out, a holiday celebration, or a special gathering with family and friends. While the holidays remind us of the importance of supporting our neighbors, I hope you'll make shopping and dining local a year-round tradition. Every purchase, every visit, and every recommendation helps keep our small businesses strong and our communities thriving. This issue’s cover features a charming acrylic painting by Denise Tomahatsch Keszthelyi, titled Alone and Happy. Inspired by the calmness of solitude, her aim was “to wrap a quiet, powerful moment in comfort.” The little frog sits proudly at peace, entirely content alone on his mushroom. Denise explains that she finds renewal and recharges during these solitary moments, o ering us a gentle reminder that it is okay-and necessary-to cherish our alone time. As you turn the pages of this issue, you’ll discover a diverse collection of articles designed to spark your curiosity and inspire new ideas. In our latest Jetsetter’s Journey column, Rainbow Travel maps out the perfect European escape: a luxury river cruise. There is no better way to unwind from the hectic holiday rush than by planning a relaxing getaway. Today’s premier river cruises o er a seamless blend of unforgettable sightseeing, upscale accommodations, fine dining, and outstanding service. In our latest Food for Thought column, Lori Kolodin shares her journey through the culinary delights of the Napa Valley. She highlights her experience with shared tapas in Palo Alto, farm-to-table grain bowls, and classic trout almondine at the famous Bouchon Bistro. Beyond showcasing incredible food, her narrative o ers an elegant reflection on the art of mindful dining. Finally, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all our local business owners and advertisers. Your continued dedication and support for The Connection Magazine allows us to bring our communities together and remain a trusted resource for all things local. We are truly grateful to be part of your success and to share your stories with our readers. From my family to yours, I wish you a beautiful Thanksgiving, and a holiday season filled with love, laughter, peace, and countless blessings to cherish. Anna Petro Publisher, The Connection Magazine A Note From Our Publisher... CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Gail Bicknell, Carolyn Hanson, Joanne Kleinle, Lori Kolodin, Ellyn Mantell, Charlotte Mitchell, Dr. Michael Osit, Ameya Ram, Colette Shovlin, Heather Silver, Hamsini T., Dr. Claudia Tamas, Dr. Chris Thomas, Johanna Wiseman 8 Medical Minutes: Performance Ortho 12-22 HOLIDAY CHEER 12 Holiday Shopping Guide 16 Family Adventures: Joanne Kleinle 18 Wine & Dine Directory 20 Creative Corner: Carolyn Hanson 22 Jetsetter’s Journey: Rainbow Travel 23-27 SENIOR LIVING 24 Community News: Heath Village 24 Senior Corner: Ellyn Mantell 26 Slice of Life: Ellyn Mantell 27 Commends: Waterfront Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center 28-29 KIDZ CONNECTION 28 Shelf Awareness: Charlotte Mitchell & Ameya Ram 28 A Poet’s Playground: Hamsini T. 29 Teen Voice: Colette Shovlin 30-36 HOME & DESIGN 30 Hints for the Home: Fair Street Interiors 36 Real Estate Corner: Johanna Wiseman 37-41 HEALTH & WELLNESS 37 Commends: Retro Fitness 38 Food for Thought: Lori Kolodin 39 Health Hotline: Natural Medicine & Rehabilitation 40 Commends: Branchburg Natural Health 41 Mind the Mind: Dr. Michael Osit 42-43 COMMUNITY CALENDAR 44 Houses of Worship: Faith, Hope & Joy
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