Cover Artwork By Angela Marie Franco AUTUMN'S ALLURE Shopping, Beauty, Dining & Events Back To School FAMILY ADVENTURES Celebrate Brite Nites at Wagner Farm FOOD FOR THOUGHT A History of Food Trends PLAY TO WIN Details on page 6! VOLUME LXXVI SEPT/OCT/NOV 2025 Bridgewater, Branchburg, Hillsborough, Martinsville, Somerville Bridgewater-Somerville Edition
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THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 6 SEPT/OCT/NOV 2025 Angela Marie Franco Title: Caterpillars on Bikes Angela Marie Franco’s career spans over 45 years as an accomplished graphic designer, copywriter and marketer, specializing in corporate communications and branding. She attended the Fashion Institute of Technology in Manhattan and earned two degrees- magna cum laude - in Graphic Design and Marketing Communications. Her multi-media art is ominous yet whimsical and influenced by her love of works by 1920s German Expressionists, M.C. Escher, Vincent Van Gogh, Frank Lloyd Wright and Charles Rennie MackIntosh. After writing a table manners program for kids with special needs, she expanded her program to teach kids about healthy food choices with hands-on food art and etiquette programs. She now helps adults with intellectual disabilities to become self-sufficient by planning and making healthy meals. Angela wrote and published an instructional book for all ages entitled “The Table Manners Coach” (on amazon.com). Ms. Franco is also a member of the Hunterdon Watercolor Society and the Phillip’s Mill Community Association. Cell (917) 658-7223, email angelamariefranco@gmail.com, Instagram: AMF Design Nation Facebook: Angela Marie Franco 8 Mission In Motion: Natasha Adiga, Knit Crochet 10 Medical Minutes: Performance Ortho 12 Commends: Somerset Valley Players 14-15 BACK-TO-SCHOOL 14 Teen Voice: Constantin Bellmann 16-23 AUTUMN’S ALLURE Shopping, Beauty, & Dining 16 Creative Corner: Carolyn Hanson 17 Commends: Masa Sushi - Branchburg 18 Slice of Life: Ellyn Mantell 20 Family Adventures: Joanne Kleinle 23 Community News: Jewish Family Service 24-26 SENIOR LIVING 24 Commends: All American Assisted Living - Hillsborough 25 Senior Health: ComForCare Home Care 27 Financial Forum: Shapiro CPAs 28-35 HOME & DESIGN 28 Hints for the Home: Fair Street Interiors 32 Real Estate Corner: Johanna Wiseman - RE/MAX 34 Home Improvement: Buy-Rite Overhead Doors 36-45 HEALTH & WELLNESS 36 Health Hotline: Community in Crisis 38 Health Hotline: NMR 39 Relaxation Report: The Now Massage 40 The Art of Living: Barry Farber, Diamond Minds 41 Mind The Mind: Dr. Michael Osit 42 Food For Thought: Lori Kolodin, MPH, RD 43 Senior Corner: Ellyn Mantell 44 Fall In Love With Life: Serafina Perrotto 45 Community Champions: Raritan Valley Habitat For Humanity 46-47 COMMUNITY CALENDAR 48 Community News: Literacy Volunteers of Somerset County THE CONNECTION MAGAZINE'S TEAM PUBLISHED BY Donna Reina, Georgeann Agaisse, Heather Silver, Patty Herman, Alicia Singman, Jeanette Vogel, Pramisa Tamsina 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 Professional Que Standers Fake ad in the June issue is Jennifer Warren of Bridgewater. Jennifer won a gift card to the Bread Cafe Bakery in Green Brook. Next Issue November! Advertising deadline October 24, 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... Welcome to the Bridgewater-Somerville edition of the September 2025 issue of The Connection Magazine. As the golden days of summer wind down, we welcome the crisp air and cozy charm of fall. The season brings a refreshing shift…changing leaves, layered sweaters, apple-picking adventures, and pumpkin-flavored everything that fills us with warmth and nostalgia. At The Connection Magazine, we’re embracing the beauty of autumn and all it has to o er. From decorating your home to refreshing your wellness routine, finding thoughtful seasonal gifts, or discovering hidden gems in our community, this issue is your go-to guide for fall inspiration. Be sure to check out our Autumn’s Allure section, filled with seasonal tips, local resources, and services to help you make the most of this time of year. Our Back-to-School section is also here to support students and families as they dive into another successful new school year. As we ease into the season of giving, we also invite you to explore the many nonprofit organizations featured throughout this issue. Fall is a wonderful time to get involved and lend a helping hand, making a di erence close to home and connecting with your local community. Imagine not being able to explain your symptoms to a doctor or read a note from your child’s school? Literacy Volunteers of Somerset County is making a life-long impact on non-English speakers by promoting literacy throughout the community. This non-profit organization provides personalized, goal-focused instruction to adults who struggle to read, write and communicate in English. One need not be a teacher to tutor in this program; volunteers are trained in a 4-week program. Please consider joining the Literacy Volunteers and make a di erence in someone’s life. See the Community News column titled, “Literacy Lasts a Lifetime” for more information. Are you in full “fall-swing” yet? Cooler days, longer nights, sweater weather, and Halloween! Joanne Kleinle shares a fun, festive, and autumnal event in our Family Adventures column. Each year Wagner Farms in Warren celebrates the season with Brite Nites. And it’s also a fundraiser! Show your support and have a magical night out with your little ones, older ones and the whole family, because there is something for everyone to enjoy! The cover art is a wonderful, whimsical painting by Angela Marie Franco. It is a mixed media piece using both acrylic paint and photo images. Appropriately titled, Caterpillars on Bikes makes me wonder where the rainbow-hued, future butterflies are riding to! Angela says of her art, “Everyday of your life is special. If you can view my art and it makes you giggle, I have accomplished my goal to make that moment happy for both of us.” As always, when you visit a business you discovered through The Connection, let them know you saw them here and #TellThemWeSentYou! Wishing you a joyful and inspiring autumn-filled with color, comfort, and community. Warmly, Anna Petro Publisher, The Connection Magazine A Note From Our Publisher... CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Natasha Adiga, Constantin Bellman, Gail Bicknell, Natalia Black, Sabrina & Nick Concilio, Barry Farber, Carolyn Hanson, Joanne Kleinle, Lori Kolodin, Ellyn Mantell, Dr. Joseph Mejia, Naomi Noto, Dr. Michael Osit, Serafina Perrotto, Dr. Vincent Sferra, Robert Shapiro, Johanna Wiseman
THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 8 SEPT/OCT/NOV 2025 theconnectionsnj.com just calculated, and the number seems outrageous. 605 crochet caps! When did I make them? How many hours did it take to make each one? How much time and effort did I put into planning the colors and patterns, checking out YouTube videos, and finally completing each one? The 605 caps have been crocheted, stitch by stitch, over the course of seven and a half years, averaging 80 caps a year. That’s 1.5 caps per week. Each cap takes about 3.5 hours, totaling over 2000 hours of crocheting, or an average of 5.25 hours per week! That is a lot of effort, but if I were to tell you what I got in return, and continue to get, you would see that it far outweighs what I put in. Knit Crochet with Love was started by some friends in one of their basements about 9 years ago. I joined the group 7.5 years ago. What started small now has various chapters. They not only provide much-needed chemo caps, but they have created a giving community! These caps are needed by hospitals around the country. It makes what I do necessary and gives me a sense of purpose. Knowing the comfort it brings a cancer patient, however fleeting it may be, makes me more compassionate. Imagining a smile when a patient first puts on a cap-soft, snug, and crocheted with love-I feel valued. Teaching others how to crochet, I feel connected. Passing on this handicraft to the next generation gives me a sense of continuity. Over the years, I met and connected with some lovely, caring, strong women who bonded across age, race, language, and culture over the simple, age-old craft of knitting and crochet. The group includes women in all phases of life. There are older women, now grandmothers, who have wisdom earned over the years that they want to contribute to make a difference. There are mothers who suddenly find themselves with an empty nest after a long time of caring for and nurturing children. There are working women looking to relieve stress, retired women looking to fill their time, and single women looking for community. Others join just to use the skill they learned as little girls. Some come because they have lost loved ones to cancer, and it is their way of grieving and healing. Their hands move, creating caps to provide an envelope of comfort, trying to fill the hole only grief can create. Some are still dealing with cancer in the family. Some are battling cancer themselves, and others are survivors. All with different reasons but a common purpose. Stitch by stitch, I have been able to keep my anxiety at bay. Each knot soothes my racing mind. The rhythmic movement of my hands keeps the part of my brain that wants to outrun my thoughts harnessed. Stitch by each repetitive stitch, I have found calm and felt more grounded. Sometimes I contemplate this fleeting life, and other times I am just happy to keep my fidgety hands moving. I recall the women who taught me how to crochet with gratitude, and I am thankful to have found another community of women miles away from where I learned how to crochet. I feel a sense of accomplishment with every finished cap. Hands moving, repetitive, rhythmic, creating - providing a balm to troubles both known and unknown, soothing both the creator and the wearer. That’s the story of my 605 caps for KCWL. Since I started this piece and finally got around to finishing it, I am at 607 caps and going strong. If knitting/crochet is something you want to learn or already know and want to engage with a diverse giving community, reach out and join: Website: knitcrochetwithlove.org or Email: knitcrochetwithlove@gmail.com. MISSION IN MOTION Six Hundred and Five for Knit Crochet with Love (KCWL) By Natasha Adiga I
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THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 10 SEPT/OCT/NOV 2025 theconnectionsnj.com NewJerseyJiffyLube.com ® Adventure is waiting... Is your car ready to go? You don’t need an appointment for our fast, courteous service. Come by and visit, before it’s time to take that ride. $20.00 OFF Signature Service Oil Change Disclaimer: Not valid with any other offer for same service. Must present coupon at time of service. Valid at participating stores on jiffylubenewjersey.com. Jiffy Lube, Jiffy Lube design mark and Jiffy Lube Signature Service® are registered trademarks of Jiffy Lube International, Inc. © 2024 Jiffy Lube International, Inc. Code: 782WC2 Expires: 12/31/25 BRIDGEWATER 1316 Route 22 East 908-231-9800 Located at Morgan Lane Mon-Fri 8:00-7:00 Saturday 7:30-5:00 Sunday 8:00-4:00 FRANKLIN 1503 Route 27 South 732-828-6116 Between Cozzens Lane and Bennetts Lane Mon-Fri 8:00-6:00 Saturday 7:30-5:00 Sunday 8:00-4:00 Family Owned & Operated For Over 25 Years hat Is Degenerative Disc Disease? At Performance Ortho, low back pain is one of the most common conditions we have successfully managed for thousands of patients. While there are many causes, none are as common as arthritis and spinal degenerative disc disease (DDD). Spinal arthritis and DDD are most often caused by age-related changes, prior injuries or surgery to the spine. When spinal discs wear out as we age, the surrounding nerves become compressed and irritated, resulting in severe and often debilitating pain. Key Symptoms of DDD: • Low Back Pain • Crunching Sound or Feeling • Pinching, Tingling, or Numbness • Back or Neck Stiffness Why Traditional Treatments Often Fall Short Traditionally, DDD treatments struggle to assess the root cause of pain, providing temporary relief that is progressively less effective after each treatment. Some traditional treatments include: • Physical Therapy: Often most effective for simpler spinal conditions. • Spinal Injections: Relief is usually temporary with diminished returns after multiple injections. • Pharmaceutical Pain Management: Including opioids, anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, and steroids. All may provide temporary relief for short-term use but never address the underlying cause of the pain. Introducing ViaDisc®: An Innovative Solution for Spinal Degenerative Disc Disease and Arthritis in New Jersey. ViaDisc® injections are a proven treatment option for patients with chronic low back pain from degenerative disc disease and spinal arthritis. This single-injection procedure uses an innovative FDA-cleared gel-like substance to rehydrate and heal the degenerated spinal discs naturally. It can be a non-surgical alternative for people suffering from persistent back pain related to disc issues. Dr. Joe Mejia explains: “ViaDisc® has been a game changer for patients with degenerative disc disease and spinal arthritis. At Perfor- Performance Ortho, our unique integrated approach to spine care means every patient benefits from a coordinated plan designed by pain physicians, surgeons, and rehabilitation specialists who collaborate to target the root cause of your back pain. That’s how we deliver not just shortterm relief, but lasting outcomes.” Benefits of ViaDisc®: What Patients Should Expect Expect • Covered by Medicare. • 78% pain score reduction in 12 months, per post-treatment clinical trial. • Minimally invasive procedure – No stitches or implants. • Same day outpatient procedure – No hospital stay required. What Performance Ortho Patients are saying: “I came in with severe lumbar pain from degraded discs at L3, L4, and L5, and it was affecting my quality of life. After receiving ViaDisc® intervention for my Spinal Arthritis, the relief was immediate. I feel like myself again. More mobile, more active, and regained quality of life.” Rosemarie, Real Performance Ortho Patient -Watchung location, 2025 Next Steps: At Performance Ortho, we specialize in non-surgical, evidence-based treatments that change lives. If you’re struggling with chronic low back pain or frustrated with temporary solutions, it’s time to explore ViaDisc®. Meet Your Expert: Dr. Joseph Mejia Dr. Mejia is a triple board-certified specialist in Pain Management, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, and Sports Medicine. With over 15 years of experience, he has helped thousands of patients restore function, reduce pain, and avoid unnecessary surgery. He currently serves as Medical Director at Performance Medical Director at Performance Ortho, with offices in Watchung, Branchburg, Somerset, and Hillsborough, NJ. Same-Day / Next-Day Appointments No Referral Needed Medicare and Most Major Insurances Accepted Visit www.PerformanceOrtho.com Call Today and Reclaim Your Mobility 908-718-1907 MEDICAL MINUTES A Non-Invasive Solution to Low Back Pain: An Innovative Treatment for Arthritis and Disc Degeneration By Dr. Joseph Mejia, DO, FAAPMR, RMSK W
THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 12 SEPT/OCT/NOV 2025 theconnectionsnj.com DON’T RISK LOSING PRICELESS MEMORIES! CREATE YOUR DIGITAL LEGACY! Convert your old media to a digital format and enjoy your family videos on your TV. No DVDs required! AAS Tax Services, LLC Andy Adamczuk IRS Licensed Enrolled Agent Tax Experience Since 2001 MS in Accounting BS in Accounting • BS in Finance • Correspondence Audit • Amended Returns • Installment Payments of Tax Liabilities • Planning for Taxes & Other Tax Services Affordable Prices (check prices & discounts on our website) Professional Full Service Tax Office for Individuals & Small Business Entities For more information visit our website: AasTaxServices.com Bldg. 4 Ste. #427, (Executive Suites) 3322 Rt. 22 West Branchburg, NJ 08876 908-231-9500 • Income Tax Return Preparation • Late Filings • IRS & State Tax Problem Solving • Tax Debt Reduction he Somerset Valley Players, a nonprofit community theatre located in Hillsborough, is winding down its 58th performance season with three tremendously entertaining productions. “There’s something for everyone – comedy, drama, and family entertainment,” says SVP President Roberta Steve. “Our September show, Funny Money, is a renowned British farce complete with silly situations, misunderstandings, and word play of the highest order. Times are stressful and we all need some belly laughs, so this show is the perfect answer,” she states. The theatre’s penultimate show of the season is The Lion in Winter, which is most recognized from the 1967 Academy Award winning film adaptation starring Peter O’Toole and Katharine Hepburn. “The transition from an outright farce to this sophisticated, elegant dramedy is a testament to SVP’s versatility,” explains Steve. “When we select the slate of shows for each season, we actively seek to engage audiences who CONNECTION COMMENDS look for all levels of live entertainment. We have something for everyone.” SVP’s 2025 season comes to a close with a Christmas show aimed at families. “It’s our tradition to present family-friendly holiday shows. Through the years we’ve seen generations of audiences enjoy entertainment together. These shows are often the first time small children even see a stage show. They’re always amazed,” Steve recounts. “Giving the gift of live theatre makes for a memorable family Christmas.” The 2025 holiday presentation is The 24 Days Before Christmas, an adaptation of the beloved Madeleine L’Engle’s Austin Family novel. “We encourage lovers of the book to come see it on stage, and to gift tickets to the show and the book to others to fully enjoy both,” adds Steve. “This has been a tremendous year for the theatre,” she concludes. “It marks the 40th anniversary of the opening of our permanent performing facility on Amwell Road in Hillsborough, and to date, our productions have been very popular with audiences. We hope to see lots of new and familiar faces in the audience for our final three productions. Come see us!” General information about SVP’s remaining 2025 schedule: PERFORMANCES: Fridays & Saturdays @ 8 pm; Sundays @ 2 pm. (There will be an added Saturday matinee for the holiday show.) TICKETS: Adults: $24; seniors/students: $22 INFORMATION: For tickets, directions to the theatre, and complete show details go to www.svptheatre.org. 689 Amwell Road Hillsborough, NJ 908-369-7469 www.svptheatre.org Laughter! Tears! Joy! Join local audiences in celebrating affordable, accessible, award-winning live theatre with the Somerset Valley Players in Hillsborough. borough. The Somerset Valley Players,
THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 13 SEPT/OCT/NOV 2025 theconnectionsnj.com One family’s memorable journey to Christmas with a new baby on the way. Filled with elves, carols, and laughter, this adaptation of Madeleine L’Engle’s Austin Family novel will bring a smile to your face and a tear to your eye. Celebrate the season with heartwarming entertainment for the A hilarious tale of a mild-mannered accountant who accidentally picks up a briefcase filled with money. Follow his crazy plans to change his life – with help from his wife, his friends, two cops, a crazy cab driver, and a gangster! A classic British farce performed by a superb cast. A modern-day classic with sibling rivalry, adultery, and dungeons. Royal families are known for scandals, but the House of Plantagenet may be the most dysfunctional in history. Comedic in tone, but dramatic in action, the power struggle in 12 century England between King Henry II and his defiant Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine is brought brilliantly alive by a talented cast. th September 5 - 21, 2025 December 5 - 21, 2025 October 17- November 2, 2025 entire family! *Shows & Performance Dates Subject to Change* Made possible by funds from the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission, a partner of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.
BACK SCHOOL PAGE 14 theconnectionsnj.com he sun is setting earlier now, but the thought of long summer days still brings a smile to my face. In June, the thought of summer brought a little sigh of relief, which I will undoubtedly long for again very soon. The nights are getting chillier, and the sun is setting earlier. It is time to gear up for a long school year filled with homework, tests, and packed schedules. Gone, for now, are those precious months of freedom. They felt like a reward, a chance to hit the reset button. While we occasionally slept late and definitely hit that reset button this past summer, for us teenagers, summer was about so much more. For many teenagers, summer can be a time for exploration and discovery. It offered an opportunity to pursue passions through volunteering, learning new skills, or taking online courses. There is less pressure and more time for experimentation and the discovery of interests in summertime. This self-discovery can help us to develop an understanding of ourselves and our future goals. Summer can also be a time for building stronger connections. The relaxed pace and more flexible schedule allowed for spontaneous hangouts with friends, social gatherings, and trips. These experiences created memories and strengthened bonds. The season also offered chances to reconnect with family, enjoy time together, and perhaps work on a home improvement project or two (with my Dad-he’s the King of Home Improvement). Summer is a time for growth and personal development. Summer sports or even pre-season training for fall sports kept us in shape and helped us to cross-train. Part-time jobs or internships taught us responsibility and financial literacy. Volunteering helped us give back to our community while providing us with valuable experience. Even dedicating time to test prep and summer homework made us grow. This time spent made us better prepared for rigorous fall classes and extra-curricular schedules (thanks to my Mom-she’s the Queen of Scheduling). For me, finding a balance between structured activities and downtime was essential. Too much idleness leads to boredom, while too much pressure and overscheduling makes summer feel like another school year. Finding this balance allowed me to relax and return to school refreshed and ready. My summer was filled with sunshine, swimming, and late nights with friends. I found time to explore passions, build relationships, and work towards personal growth. It was a season of opportunity. I know, like me, many teenagers found a way to make the most of it. And now back to our regularly scheduled programming… Constantin is a recent graduate of Warren Middle School. He spends his summers swimming for the Middlebury Marlins in Vermont. He has many interests that keep him busy like soccer, robotics, theater and is a rising chef. Pingry will be getting a brilliant addition to the class of 2029 in the fall. TEEN VOICE Summer A Reflection By Constantin Bellmann T rigorous fall classes and extra-curricu another school year. Finding this bal relationships, and work towards per
PAGE 15 BACK SCHOOL theconnectionsnj.com BRIANNA PETRO K-5 MATH TEACHER 908-938-6989 CALL OR TEXT MATH TUTORING GRADES 2-5 www.linkedin/in/briannapetro Start strong, stay ahead! F R EE F I R S T S ES S ION FRIENDS, FITNESS & FUN AT THE Y From swim lessons and youth sports to fitness and enrichment classes, the Y has programs for every age and interest. Come grow stronger with us — in spirit, mind, and body. Explore programs at gscymca.org/programs BRIDGEWATER YMCA I SOMERVILLE YMCA Branches of Greater Somerset County YMCA THE CAMBRIDGE SCHOOL Where Children Who Learn Differently Thrive® We Offer: Multi-Sensory Learning Evidenced Based Reading Instruction Expertly Trained Faculty OPEN ENROLLMENT Our Website www.thecambridgeschool.org Does your child struggle to read? Have dyslexia or ADHD? We are here to help. Cambridge School is an independent, K-12 day school that specializes in helping students with language-based learning differences.
AUTUMN’S ALLURE EAT, DRINK & CELEBRATE PAGE 16 theconnectionsnj.com Step into a World of Creativity… Open-Air Artisan Market Saturday, October 18 | 10am-4pm 3592 Route 22 | Whitehouse, NJ …an open-air celebration of local art, craftsmanship and community. • Shop local with our craft and pottery makers • Assemble a succulent planter in our gorgeous pots • Craft a decoupage pumpkin • Sculpt and paint a clay snowman We also offer: Pottery Classes & Pottery and Crafting Workshops See our website for more information and to sign up: www.burntmillpotters.com | 908-507-8657 APlma7358@gmail.com Monday-Thursday 8 am to 5 pm Changing leaves, Changing oilIt's time for fall car service! CREATIVECORNER Ephemeral Art By Carolyn Hanson in warm water softens them enough for weaving. Willow branches also work. The technique is similar to wrapping yarn into a ball, plus tucking the ends and weaving as you go. I am thinking of adding fairy lights to the balls and leaving them in the labyrinth (along with the cement rope lawn sculpture - See my June 2025 article). I also crochet over large river rocks with white cotton yarn and place them in the garden. The sun bleaches them, and, over time, the cotton decomposes or becomes bedding for a squirrel’s nest. I am also fascinated by intricate crochet on leaf edges; elaborate mandalas created by monks using colored sand only to blow it all away upon completion; and intricate ice sculptures that catch the light and then disappear. All are so beautiful and so temporary. Everyone can enjoy this creative practice in any season and watch it return to nature. For Children: • Collect different color leaves and make designs on a path. The wind will whisk it away. • Carve a pumpkin. Leave it outside and wildlife will munch away. • Build a snowman or igloo and watch it shrink and melt. • Watch chalk drawings wash away in the rain. • Paint anything with water on a hot day and watch it evaporate. • Build a sandcastle, add shells and sticks. High tide erases all. Make a wreath from wildflowers and wear it like a crown all day. Welcome Fall. BTW, I highly recommend the self-guided walking tour in Vermont, www.vermontinntoinnwalking.com. Four inns, 43 miles, fabulous 3-course meals and luggage transported. Check it out. aking art out of natural materials is something I’m drawn to each season. It may disappear or decompose, but at the moment, for the moment, it is beautiful. Ephemeral art is just that…Art that is intentionally temporary. It does not leave a permanent mark. It can be fragile. Performing arts like dance and song, sculptures from natural materials, even paintings or drawings that wash away are all ephemeral art. This spring I took a walking tour in Vermont where previous walkers had decorated the trail with ephemeral art. I saw a stone cairn, a floral bouquet in an old high-top sneaker, and a labyrinth cut into a field of wildflowers. The locals call them “hoodoos”, and we added to them by making a lattice on a “Y” shaped branch and weaving in wildflowers, ferns, and leaves. We left our art beside a fairy house at one of the inns. It was such a fun group project. Now others on the trail will see our contribution to the trail art and perhaps refresh the flowers as they wither. At home, we have a healthy wisteria vine that covers a pergola. It grows like a weed, so the vines need to be trimmed every few weeks. My husband saves the trimmings. While they are green, I bend and shape them into wreaths and balls. If they are more woody or dried out, a soaking M mandalas created by monks using col
AUTUMN’S ALLURE EAT, DRINK & CELEBRATE PAGE 17 theconnectionsnj.com …Where tradition meets innovation. Savor the fusion of fresh ingredients and bold flavors with every bite. Whether you’re craving a classic or an adventurous twist, we have something for everyone. Dine In or Take Out Order online: www.masabranchburg.com 908-526-6888 Lamington Corner 1260 Route 28 | Branchburg Sushi Rolls, Sashimi, Nigiri & More Tempura, Katsu, Teriyaki Udon & Soba Noodles Ramen Noodle Soup Hibachi Entrees Specialty Dishes & More or over 15 years, Masa Sushi Masa Sushi has been a cornerstone of Branchburg’s dining scene. It delights locals with its authentic Japanese flavors, warm hospitality, and commitment to quality. This family-owned restaurant offers an inviting atmosphere perfect for solo dinners, date nights, family gatherings, and celebrations alike. What truly sets Masa Sushi Masa Sushi apart is its dedication to freshness and service. Ingredients are carefully selected and prepared daily, ensuring every dish meets high standards. Masa Sushi Masa Sushi offers customizable party trays packed with fresh sushi rolls, sashimi, and nigiri—perfect for birthdays, corporate events, or family get-togethers. The generous platters ensure everyone gets a taste of high-quality, Japanese flavors without the hassle of cooking. From classics like the California Roll and Alaska Roll to Chef’s Special Rolls like the Masa Special Roll and Flamingo Roll, Masa Sushi Masa Sushi has something for everyone to enjoy. Those who aren’t fans of raw fish or are craving cooked dishes can enjoy a multitude of Masa Masa Sushi’s cooked options with choic- CONNECTION COMMENDS es like flavorful teriyaki, savory udon noodles, and crispy chicken katsu. Innovative fusion dishes like Sushi Pizza showcase the restaurant’s creativity and its use of fresh, premium fish demonstrate its commitment to quality. The chefs’ meticulous preparation and artistic presentation elevate every meal, making it just as visually appealing as it is delicious. Whether you are just discovering Japanese cuisine or are a longtime sushi enthusiast, Masa Sushi Masa Sushi’s diverse menu offers something for every palate. First-time visitors will appreciate the knowledgeable staff who gladly explain dishes and make recommendations, while seasoned diners can explore creative specialties. The attentive staff takes pride in ensuring each guest feels welcomed and leaves satisfied. Would you prefer to eat in the comfort of your own home or enjoy the cozy atmosphere of the restaurant? Regardless of your preference, Masa Masa Sushi accommodates all dining preferences. The dining room is always open to customers, as well as take-out or delivery options available for those craving Japanese flavors on the go. Call 908-526-6888 today to place an order for pickup or visit www.masabranchburg.com to browse the menu or to place an order. 1260 Route 28 Branchburg, NJ 908-526-6888 www.masabranchburg.com Masa Sushi in Branchburg A Local Gem for Authentic Japanese Cuisine For over 15 years,
AUTUMN’S ALLURE EAT, DRINK & CELEBRATE PAGE 18 theconnectionsnj.com Are You One of the Many Currently Suffering from Trauma? Want to find a way out and begin the healing process? Ellyn’s story speaks to the joy life can bring. The Best We Could can be purchased at: bookshop.org, amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com, warrenpublishing.net, or ordered at most book stores. Please visit: @EllynMantellWrites Ellyn shares how she triumphed over intergenerational trauma and empowered herself to become an advocate for those with similar struggles. The Best We Could will guide survivors of abuse to discover a path to healing. About Ellyn Mantell: Ellyn has 2 beautiful daughters of her own, and she lives with her husband of over fifty years in Florida. Her other works include, So Much More than My Ostomy: Loving My Perfectly Imperfect Body (2021). She also writes 2 columns for The Connection Magazines: A Slice of Life and Senior Corner. y older daughter has wanderlust! When she was sixteen years old, she traveled to Prague and Budapest with our Rabbi, his wife, and her Confirmation class from our Temple. Their mission was to see the concentration camps, particularly Terezin, where children were held to “show” the Red Cross that the youngest victims of Nazi cruelty were well-treated. Allison grew so much from that experience and was hooked for life on the value of travel. Three years later, her sister, Emily, took a similar Confirmation trip, this time to Poland, where she went to Auschwitz and Birkenau. So moved by what she saw, Emily spoke to a friend’s 6th-grade class to share her experience. Each of my daughters then went to Australia to study during their semesters abroad. Traveling through and from there cemented their wanderlust for life…a more beautiful part of the world does not exist. I am sharing this walk down memory lane because my daughters are now parents of college students. They are at the time of their lives when they are traveling to Europe, and I foresee wanderlust in their future. Our eldest grandson, Jake, is doing a summer internship in Dublin, Ireland. He is meeting students from other colleges, and they are traveling throughout Europe on their off time. Our granddaughter, Maddie, will do her junior semester abroad in Paris this fall. Next year, Jessie will do hers in London. What a playground they will find once they settle into their new locations! Baby boomers were the first young people, I imagine, to indulge their wanderlust, having the ability to see the world. Friends share stories of “crashing” at youth hostels, backpacks full of dirty clothes, groups jumping on trains, and showing passports at the borders of new countries. My daughters are planning on traveling to see their children in Europe, this time as parents of college students. They will marvel, I am sure, at the independence, confidence, and ability to navigate new places that my grandchildren will exhibit. I am thrilled for this time in their lives, all of them-my daughters and sons-in-law, and grandchildren. And, in all honesty, I am also shedding a few tears, because it reminds me how much time has passed since my girls took their first trips without us, growing in beautiful ways. There is nothing we can do to stop time, but we should embrace the cycle of life and just enjoy it. SLICEOFLIFE Wanderlust By Ellyn Mantell My older daughter has wander
AUTUMN’S ALLURE EAT, DRINK & CELEBRATE PAGE 19 theconnectionsnj.com ALL SIZES & COLORS AVAILABLE AFFORDABLE PRICES! NO MINIMUMS REQUIRED! • Family Fun • Community Events • Sports Think of us for: You can personalize your own garments! Celebrate Fall with a custom-made T-shirt! Create your own GIMMEE GIMMEE TEE! • Birthdays • Artwork Promotion • Team Building • Company Logos,etc. High Quality, Long Lasting Garments Your Design Here GimmeeGimmeeTees.com Tues thru Sat-11 am to 7 pm Serving Somerset County for over 14 Years! We Make Custom Hats Sports card store offering baseball, basketball, football, hockey, soccer, pokemon cards, memorabilia, hobby wax, single cards, retail and supplies. 257 N. Main Street, Manville, NJ 08835 908-842-2400 Open Monday-Saturday (11am-6pm) Receive 10% off when you spend $50 Visit Our NEW Location: New Owners Jenna & Nick Same faces, same ingredients, same quality! • •
AUTUMN’S ALLURE EAT, DRINK & CELEBRATE PAGE 20 theconnectionsnj.com 50 amwellautobody@gmail.com Tesla Certified 8 Pieces of Chicken 20 Piece Shrimp Basket Single French Fries or Mashed Potatoes Plus 1/2 lb. of Salad of Choice $29.95 Expires 11/16/25. Not to be combined with any other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. Expires 11/16/25. Not to be combined with any other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. Variety Pack 691 E. Main Street, Bridgewater 1/4 mile west of TD Ballpark CHICKEN • SEAFOOD • RIBS CATERING AND PARTIES Party packages available for Home & Office Parties, Picnics, and BBQ's 12 Pieces of Chicken 10 Pieces Flame Broiled Ribs Choice of 40 Shrimp in a Basket or 10 Jumbo Shrimp FOOTBALL IS BACK! Chicken & Shrimp $66.95 732-469-4111 View our menu and additional coupons on our website www.chickenholidaybridgewater.com Open 7 Days a Week Sun.-Thurs. 10:30am-8pm; Fri. & Sat. 10:30am-9pm Buckets of Chicken Buffalo Wings Dinner For Two Larger Quantities Available 8 Pieces of Chicken Single French Fries $22.95 Family Chicken Fiesta COUPONS CAN BE USED MULTIPLE TIMES Chicken Jubilee 12 Pieces of Chicken $35.95 Double Order of French Fries or Mashed Potatoes Plus 1lb. of Salad of Choice 1lb.Salad of Choice 16 Pieces of Chicken NOW Triple Order of French Fries or Mashed Potatoes Plus 6 Rolls $49.95 $20.75 $30.75 $60.95 100 Buffalo Wings $17.75 16 Buffalo Wings 24 Buffalo Wings 48 Buffalo Wings 8 Pc. Chicken 12 Pc. Chicken $26.50 16 Pc. Chicken $35.25 20 Pc. Chicken $43.95 other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. Larger Quantities Available Expires 11/16/25. Not to be combined with any other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. $121.95 or Mashed Potatoes Plus 1/2 lb. of Salad of Choice other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. Expires 11/16/25. Not to be combined with any Expires 11/16/25. Not to be combined with any Expires 11/16/25. Not to be combined with any Expires 11/16/25. Not to be combined with any hose long summer days are behind us. Fall is coming with its cozy sweaters, crisp, colorful days, and darker, longer nights. That does not mean we have to hibernate. One way to bring a little light into those long nights and embrace the season is to check out Brite Brite Nites at the Wagner Farm Arboretum at 197 Mountain Avenue in Warren. Brite Nites has been a popular fundraiser for the Wagner Farms Arboretum for years. Each fall, the community comes together to marvel at its festive and brightly lit autumnal displays. The lit-up jack o’ lanterns are interspersed with displays of skeletons and, last year, even a moving, lit-up flying saucer. You never know what you are going to see at Brite Nites! The displays are all family-friendly and suitable for all ages, but this year there will be a “spooky” section as well as a not-so-spooky section that will be lit up with skeletons and displays that are an homage to the not-so-scary side of fall’s favorite holiday- Halloween! Also new this year, young families with earlier bedtimes will be able to enjoy Brite Brite Nites before nightfall sets in. Brite Nites Brite Nites will open in the late afternoon with food trucks and children’s games in addition to admission to the gardens to see the displays. This will enable our youngest patrons to be safely tucked into bed (fed and tired out!) by the time the moon comes up. Wagner Farms Arboretum is a local, nonprofit organization. Its grounds, facilities, and educational programs are dedicated to environmental and horticultural education through its beautiful, natural setting. Their grounds include a community garden with over 110 plots on dedicated space for gardeners to get their hands dirty, enjoy nature, the company of fellow gardeners, and grow their own food organically. You cannot get fresher, more locally grown produce than that! There is also a Giving Garden, which is cultivated by volunteers and is dedicated to raising vegetables that will feed our neighbors who do not have access to healthy and fresh meals. The produce is distributed to local food banks, pantries, and kitchens. The “Growing to Give” program at the Giving Garden works with local schools, youth service groups, and organizations to give youth the opportunity to learn where food comes from and how food insecurity affects the lives of many in nearby towns. Let’s not forget the Children’s Garden. Covering about 1/3 acre, the Children’s Garden is a magical place where children can discover, explore, observe, and play. It contains life-size cow sculptures, a sensory garden, outdoor musical instruments, and native plantings to provide habitat and food for pollinators, butterflies, and birds. Brite Nites and a plant sale around Mother’s Day are the two major fundraisers for Wagner Farms Arboretum. Your ticket to Brite Nites Brite Nites does not just secure you a magical night out-it supports the mission of Wagner Farms Arboretum. Brite Nites opens its doors on Fridays and Saturdays. The dates this year are October 10-11, 17-18, and 24-25. Don’t miss it! Tickets must be purchased in advance on their website at www.wfafnj.org. For more information, you can email administrator@wfafnj.org or go to the website. FAMILY ADVENTURES Brite Nites is Lighting Up! By Joanne Kleinle T
AUTUMN’S ALLURE EAT, DRINK & CELEBRATE PAGE 21 theconnectionsnj.com 908-752-5201 www.maxselectricbikes.com Hunterdon Hills Plaza 1386 Route 22 W • Lebanon Visit our other locations in Randolph & Pompton Lakes, NJ and Easton and Doylestown, PA Get Active, Get Outdoors, Go Green, Get an eBike! are critical! Get the right advice and TRY BEFORE YOU BUY! Come Test Ride Your Perfect eBike All the newest models from Aventon, Velotric, Mokwheel, Aima, and RAWRR. • 2 year factory warranty • Hassle-free warranty claims • Expert installation with 2 year service guarantee • Factory authorized dealer Over 300 eBikes in stock and ready to ride! We stock & install hitches. All Terrain Fat-Tire eBikes • Cargo eBikes • Commuter eBikes • Kid eBikes e eBikes • Ca go eBikes • Commuter eBikes • Kid eBikes All Terrain Fat-Tire eBikes • Ca e eBikes • Ca WE CATER FORALL OCCASIONS BYOB SILK ROAD Authentic Afghan and Mediterranean Cuisine We Serve Halal Food Come in and Experience Unique Afghan Hospitality! WE SERVE HEALTHY AND NUTRITIOUS FOOD MADE WITH ONLY THE FRESHEST INGREDIENTS. We specialize in Chops, Steaks, Kabobs, Veggies, Palaws (rice dishes), Seafood, Dumplings and Desserts! 908-561-8288 www.SilkRoadRestaurantnj.com – Established Since 2004 – 41 Mountain Boulevard, Village Square Mall, Warren, NJ 07059 DAILY LUNCH SPECIALS 10% OFF Dine-In $5.00 OFF Take Out With this ad & may not be combined with other offers
AUTUMN’S ALLURE EAT, DRINK & CELEBRATE PAGE 22 theconnectionsnj.com 2 varies by location Two Convenient Locations! 223-B US-22, Green Brook - (732) 752-6677 3421 US-22, Branchburg - (732) 300-1000
AUTUMN’S ALLURE EAT, DRINK & CELEBRATE PAGE 23 theconnectionsnj.com magine being able to cook your favorite meal but being unable to go to the grocery store to pick up the ingredients. This is the reality for many seniors in our community. Aging-related issues and limited mobility can make everyday tasks challenging. Simple things, like going to the store for chicken and veggies to make your favorite stew, are difficult for hundreds of homebound residents in Somerset County. Thanks to JFS volunteers, in partnership with the Somerset County Office on Aging and Disability Services and the Somerset Hills Community Health Foundation, older adults can prepare and eat homemade meals of their choice while enjoying their independence. Each week, regularly assigned Senior Shoppers pick up shopping lists, go to the supermarket, and deliver groceries, putting them away when requested by the participant. JFS volunteers not only help homebound older adults with access to food, but they often develop bonds with clients and fellow volunteers. Summer days can be difficult for older adults and may lead to increased isolation due to difficulty navigating the heat. In addition to basic groceries selected by the participant, a familiar face dropping off favorite treats like potato salad, ice pops, and watermelon slices offers physical and emotional nourishment that leaves seniors feeling better after each visit. This summer, JFS introduced a new initiaWe hope to expand Grow & Give in 2026. Do you enjoy exploring your local ShopRite aisles looking for the best deals? Do you want to meet neighbors and make a difference in the lives of Somerset County residents? Please email volunteer@jewishfamilysvc.org to learn about Senior Shopper and other meaningful volunteering opportunities through JFS. JFS is a nonprofit, nonsectarian social service agency serving the needs of individuals and families of all faiths and backgrounds in our tri-county area since 1980. We are committed to serving the needs of the entire community through our continuum of programs. Services provided by JFS include mental health counseling, senior services, career services, family mentorship, Expanding Horizons Special Needs programs, and emergency assistance. Volunteers are engaged at all levels of our agency – we look forward to speaking with you about how you can make a difference! tive in response to increasing food insecurity. Six JFS volunteers with various levels of experience in gardening joined the JFS Pilot JFS Pilot Grow & Give program. The program was created to connect local farms, volunteers, and residents in need through at-home gardening. Some volunteers used their own tomato seedlings, while others received them thanks to a generous donation from Sunhaven Farms in Hillsborough. One volunteer shared, “I’m excited because I enjoy gardening. I have been growing herbs, flowers, and vegetables in my garden for years. My client loves tomatoes, so I was happy to grow cherry tomatoes for her this summer!” Now, it’s harvest time! In July and August, volunteers picked ripe tomatoes and brought them to participants alongside their other groceries. Thanks to the time and energy of JFS volunteers, Senior Shopper participants received fresh tomatoes this summer. COMMUNITY NEWS... Grow & Give with JFS By Natalia Black, JFS Senior Shopper Coordinator I
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