The Connections Bridgewater-Somerville Edition Sept/Oct/Nov 2026

Cover Artwork By Debora Thedinga AUTUMN'S ALLURE Eat, Drink & Celebrate FAMILY ADVENTURES Join the Lighthouse Challenge HINTS FOR THE HOME A Lesson in Lighting PLAY TO WIN Details on page 6! VOLUME LXXX SEPT/OCT/NOV 2026 Bridgewater, Branchburg, Hillsborough, Martinsville, Somerville Bridgewater-Somerville Edition

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THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 6 SEPT/OCT/NOV 2026 theconnectionsnj.com 8 Medical Minutes: Performance Ortho 10 Jetsetter’s Journey: Rainbow Travel 14-20 AUTUMN'S ALLURE: EAT, DRINK & CELEBRATE 14 WINE & DINE DIRECTORY 17 Commends: AccuTax Services, LLC 18 Family Adventures: Joanne Kleinle 19 Community News: Jewish Family Service 20 Creative Corner: Carolyn Hanson 21-27 HEALTH & WELLNESS 21 Health Hotline: Natural Medicine & Rehabilitation 22 Mind the Mind: Dr. Michael Osit 26 Food for Thought: Lori Kolodin 28-30 BACK-TO-SCHOOL 28 A Poet’s Playground: Hamsini T. 28 Teen Voice: Michelle Loia 29 Connection Community Champions: STEMsters 30 Shelf Awareness: Charlotte Mitchell & Ameya Ram 31 Community News: Somerset County Sheriff’s Office 32-39 HOME & DESIGN 32 Hints for the Home: Fair Street Interiors 34 Real Estate Corner: Johanna Wiseman 38 Slice of Life: Ellyn Mantell 39 Campers & Caviar: Serafina Valentine 40-41 SENIOR LIVING 40 Community News: Heath Village 40 Senior Corner: Ellyn Mantell 42-43 COMMUNITY CALENDAR Debora Thedinga Title: Something to Crow About Medium: oil Debora Thedinga is an award-winning artist whose vibrant paintings capture the beauty of the world around her. Growing up between the Watchung Reservation and the Great Swamp, she has always been inspired by the surroundings of her native New Jersey. Debora pursued her formal art education at Rowan University, complemented by various workshops and courses with contemporary artists around the country. These experiences enriched her technique and expanded her artistic vision. ​She now splits her time between her homes in New Jersey and Florida, where she continues to find constant sources of inspiration for her work. You can view more of her paintings on Facebook and Instagram and on her website: www.DeboraThedinga.com 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 a FAKE 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 Flip Flop Finders is Michelle R. Michelle won a gift card to Gimmee Gimmee Tees in Somerville. Next Issue November! Advertising deadline October 23, 2026 SPOT THE FAKE! Disclaimer: The views expressed in the articles are the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Connection Magazines. We publish all advertisements, editorials and other content in good faith. We cannot guarantee or accept liability for the accuracy of the claims made by the advertisers. ON OUR COVER Highlights... It’s hard to believe that summer is already coming to a close. It always seems to go by much too quickly, especially for me, since summer is my favorite time of year! While I’m never quite ready to say goodbye to the long, warm days, there is something special about the arrival of fall. Fall brings us back to familiar routines as children head back to school, schedules fill up, and our days begin to feel a little more structured again. The days grow shorter; the air becomes cooler, and the thing I most look forward to about the season is that first crisp scent of autumn in the air. Soon, the leaves will begin changing into beautiful shades of red, orange and gold, and weekends will be spent picking apples, exploring pumpkin patches, enjoying fall festivals and discovering all that our local communities have to offer. Welcome to the Bridgewater-Somerville edition of our September issue! Our Autumn’s Allure section is filled with seasonal ideas, tips and resources to help you make the most of this beautiful time of year. You’ll also find plenty of reasons to seek out some of the hidden gems right here in our communities. Our Health & Wellness and Senior sections focus on caring for ourselves and our families, from dental and eye care to mental health awareness and nurturing our bodies, both physically and emotionally. Read our Back-to-School pages featuring teen writers from the community! A Poet’s Playground captures the feeling of heading back to school in poetic verse. Teen Voice describes the mission of its writer, Michelle Loia, in creating The Bloom Project-a nonprofit initiative celebrating disadvantaged teens. And don’t miss, Shelf Awareness. The authors recommend 5 thrillers that are great reads for teens and adults alike. Finally, learn all about STEMsters, in our Community Champions column. Local teen, Iona Nandy, inspires children to gain a passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math). And as we look ahead to the holiday season, our Home & Design section offers inspiration and resources for home improvements, seasonal maintenance and getting your home ready for the busy months ahead. It’s never too early to start! The curious rooster on our cover was painted by Debora Thedinga. Her inspiration for the piece was pulled from her experience of keeping chickens for several years. She titled it, Something to Crow About. Her painting truly captures the charm and spirited nature of this bird! I love the way the warm slate background contrasts perfectly with the bright feathers and deep crimson of his comb. I always learn so much from reading the many articles within the magazine and hope you do so as well! Turn to page 8 for a deep dive into chronic knee pain. In their article, “Bone-onBone Knee Pain Does Not Always Mean Knee Replacement,” the doctors at Performance Ortho explain that it is important to work with physicians that prescribe treatments based on the whole patient-not just X-rays, as the goal is keeping “patients out of surgery while restoring function and mobility.” If you love lighthouses and the mystique that surrounds them, please read our Family Adventures column by Joanne Kleinle. This feature highlights the upcoming “Lighthouse Challenge” along the New Jersey coastline. It is a wonderful activity for all ages, and the perfect reason to extend your shore visits into the fall. I hope you enjoy this issue, support the wonderful local businesses within our pages, and take some time to enjoy everything this beautiful season has to offer. When visiting our featured advertisers, please let them know you discovered them through The Connection Magazine. #TellThemWeSentYou! Shop Local. Dine Local. Support Local. Wishing you and your family a happy, healthy and colorful autumn! Anna Petro Publisher, The Connection Magazine A Note From Our Publisher... CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Gail Bicknell, Carolyn Hanson, Joanne Kleinle, Lori Kolodin, Michelle Loia, Ellyn Mantell, Charlotte Mitchell, Iona Nandy, Melissa O’Selmo, Dr. Michael Osit, Ameya Ram, William Schievella, Dr. Vince Sferra, Hamsini T., Dr. Chris Thomas, Serafina Valentine, Johanna Wiseman

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THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 8 SEPT/OCT/NOV 2026 theconnectionsnj.com HOLY CROSS CEMETERY & MAUSOLEUM OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP PARISH 145 Mount Airy Rd. | Basking Ridge, NJ 07920 (908) 766-0079 | www.holycrosscem.com hat Does “Bone-on-Bone” Knee Pain Really Mean? “Bone-on-bone” is a phrase many patients hear after a knee X-ray shows advanced loss of joint space, often signaling osteoarthritis. Many believe this diagnosis means their knee is beyond help and replacement surgery is their only option. At Performance Ortho, we have challenged this assumption for over 25 years by developing comprehensive treatment plans that keep patients out of surgery while restoring function and mobility. Imaging is important, but it is only one part of the picture. Chronic knee pain may also come from inflammation, irritated tendons, weakened muscles or stress on nearby tissues. Two patients with similar X-rays can experience very different symptoms. That is why treatments should be based on the whole patient, not the image alone. Common Signs of Advanced Knee Arthritis Patients with bone-onbone knee arthritis commonly report: • Deep, aching pain while walking or resting • Stiffness first thing in the morning • Difficulty with stairs, exercise, or daily activities Why “Bone-on-Bone” Does Not Automatically Mean Surgery A careful examination can identify which structures in the knee are generating pain and whether non-surgical care may still improve your quality of life. At Performance Ortho, care begins with a comprehensive evaluation and a personalized plan. Our multidisciplinary team aims to combine targeted treatments like focused shockwave therapy, stem cell therapy, or other interventions based on each patient’s needs and goals. Focused Shockwave Therapy: A Non-Invasive Option for Chronic Knee Pain High-energy acoustic waves are directed to carefully selected areas around the knee. The treatment stimulates biological responses associated with circulation, tissue remodeling, and pain reduction without incisions or addictive pain medication. Because bone-on-bone knee pain is rarely one-dimensional, shockwave therapy may be paired with physical therapy and other innovative options. In select cases, a physician may also discuss regenerative approaches, including platelet-rich plasma or stem cell-based therapy. Dr. Thomas explains, “A bone-on-bone X-ray does not tell us everything about a patient’s pain or function. Our job is to identify every contributing factor and build a plan that may help the patient function better before just assuming surgery is the only path. If I have a patient with good range of motion and leg strength, I become encouraged that non-surgical treatments are a viable option.” Who May Be a Candidate for Non-Surgical Care? A non-surgical plan may be worth exploring for patients with chronic knee pain who want to remain active and are hoping to delay or avoid total knee replacement. The best candidates are identified through an examination, review of imaging and realistic goal setting. Next Steps If you have been told your knee is boneon-bone, you may still have options. Performance Ortho evaluates the full picture to determine whether shockwave therapy may be an appropriate treatment. Meet Your Expert: Dr. Chris Thomas Dr. Thomas specializes in interventional pain management and non-surgical orthopedic care. He is board-certified with advanced training in regenerative medicine and minimally invasive spine procedures. Dr. Thomas believes every patient deserves a clear diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan tailored to their goals. His focus is on addressing the underlying cause of pain and helping patients move better and regain the quality of life they deserve. Same-Day and Next-Day Appointments No Referral Needed Medicare and Most Major Insurances Accepted MEDICAL MINUTES Bone-on-Bone Knee Pain Does Not Always Mean Knee Replacement By Dr. Chris Thomas, MD, FAAPMR Medical Director, Performance Ortho Somerset W

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PAGE 15 theconnectionsnj.com AUTUMN’S ALLURE DINE, SHOP & CELEBRATE HONDA OF BRIDGEWATER Your Trusted Honda Dealer Serving Central New Jersey New Honda Sales Honda Certified Pre-Owned Expert Service & Genuine Honda Parts Competitive Financing & Leasing EXPERIENCE THE HONDA DIFFERENCE Schedule your test drive today. Honda of Bridgewater 1201 US 22, Bridgewater, NJ Hondaofbridgewater.com 908-722-5566 SCAN TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE Additional $1000 off any new or used car sale. Expires: 11/30/26 Proudly Serving Bridgewater and Surrounding Communities for Over 40 Years. Disclaimer: Additional 1k off cannot be combined with any other dealer advertised discounts. Must present coupon at the time of sale. OPEN TUESDAY-SATURDAY Walk-Ins Welcome! Call for Appointment: 732-710-2309 Owner: Joseph Simmons | joels41370@gmail.com 33 Thompson Street | Raritan ***** I’ve been getting a fresh fade with Joe for over 25 years. He always has me looking right, I appreciate his dedication to his craft and the cleanliness of the shop. Highly recommended for all your grooming needs. -JS ***** Excellent service and chill ambiance from Joe and Tube, real best barbers in town. -ILG 5 Star Rating on Google! Old-Fashioned Service, Modern-Day Style The Tuesday Taper Special: $25 Haircuts, $50 with Beard (Tuesdays only) Everything is Made-From-Scratch to make fresh memories. Join us for Happy Hour ! Monday-Friday 3:00 pm-6:00 pm Enjoy something sweet with our Signature Chocolate Piñata. Smashable. Shareable. Delicious. Our one-of-a-kind smashable dessert is a hanging piñata of dark chocolate filled with homemade churros and fresh fruit. (908) 300-3051 www.unclejulios.com 400 Commons Way Bridgwater, NJ 08807 Uncle Julio's Bridgewater Dine In or To Go! Authentic Inspirations from Mexico to our Menu! Come celebrate with us!

THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 16 SEPT/OCT/NOV 2026 t h etchoenc no encnt ei oc nt i son j s. cnoj .mc o m theconnectionsnj.com AUTUMN’S ALLURE DINE, SHOP & CELEBRATE AUTHENTIC ITALY. MADE WITH PASSION. At Dolce Bene, we celebrate the rich flavors and time-honored traditions of Italy. Every dish is crafted with the finest ingredients, a touch of creativity, and a lot of heart. Book our private party room for your next celebration. Dine In or Take Out BYOB 732-377-2238 Dolcebeneristorante.com 1938 Washington Valley Road Martinsville, NJ 08836 257 N. Main Street, Manville, NJ 08835 908-842-2400 Open Monday-Saturday (11am-6pm) Receive 10% off when you spend $50 WHERE THE SERIOUS COLLECTORS SHOP. Sports card store offering baseball • basketball • football hockey • soccer • pokemon cards • memorabilia • hobby wax single cards • retail and supplies. SAL’S AUTO BODYINC. Serving Your Community for 55 Years 315 HIGHWAY 22 (EAST BOUND) • GREEN BROOK HOURS: M-F 8 AM - 5:30 PM Closed on Saturdays NJ License No. 00342A www.salsautobodyinc.com info@salsautobodyinc.com Where quality repairs are no accident • Collision Specialists • Custom Painting • Paintless Dent Repairs We work with all insurance companies for appraisals and repairs.

PAGE 17 theconnectionsnj.com AUTUMN’S ALLURE DINE, SHOP & CELEBRATE Strategic Tax Planning for the Wealth You’re Building Strategic tax planning helps you make informed business decisions while there is still time to act. STRATEGIZE. OPTIMIZE. PROTECT. PROSPER. MORE THAN NUMBERS-STRATEGIES THAT BUILD WEALTH, PROTECT WHAT MATTERS AND CREATE LASTING LEGACIES. Strategy. Confidence. Legacy. (732) 474-7790 info@accutaxservicesllc.com accutaxservicesllc.com Warren, NJ APPLY FOR A TAX PLANNING DISCOVERY CALL TODAY! Personalized tax solutions. Powerful results. WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES Tax strategies that support growth, cash flow and long-term success. REAL ESTATE PLANNING Smart tax structuring for acquisitions, holdings and investment growth. HIGH-INCOME ENTREPRENEURS Advanced tax advisory to maximize wealth and minimize tax exposure. TAX STRATEGY IS WEALTH STRATEGY. Let’s build your legacy - together. Melissa O’Selmo EA | PA | CTC TAX ADVISOR & STRATEGIST ACCUTAX SERVICES SIGNATURE TAX ADVISORY STRATEGIC ADVICE • PROACTIVE PLANNING • LASTING IMPACT 3. Review Entity Structure and Owner Compensation Your entity affects income taxes, payroll taxes, reporting and administrative costs. S corporation owners who work in the business should also review whether wages remain reasonable for the services performed. Entity changes should be modeled carefully; a structure that benefits one owner may create unnecessary cost and complexity for another. 4. Evaluate Equipment Purchases Before Spending Current law provides favorable first-year depreciation for many qualifying business assets. That does not mean every purchase should be accelerated. Consider business need, cash flow, financing, placed-in-service timing and the effect of deductions on other tax attributes. Buy equipment because it supports the business, then determine the most appropriate tax treatment. 5. Revisit Retirement Plans and Employee Benefits A SEP IRA, SIMPLE IRA, 401(k) or other qualified plan may support retirement goals while creating potential deductions. Contribution limits and establishment deadlines vary by plan. Owners with employees must also consider eligibility and nondiscrimination requirements. Begin the review early enough to compare options and complete required documents. The most useful year-end meeting combines current books, the prior-year return, payroll information and a realistic forecast. Planning cannot guarantee a particular result, but starting before December creates more choices than waiting until filing season. Melissa O’Selmo, Licensed Tax Strategist and Certified Tax Coach of AccuTax Services, LLC, provides tax planning and advisory services to small-business owners. With a proactive strategy-focused approach, she helps business owners identify tax-saving opportunities, stay compliant, and make informed decisions that support long-term growth. Schedule a discovery call today! SPONSORED CONTENT Sources: IRS guidance; Grant Thornton 2026 YearEnd Tax Guide; Journal of Accountancy, March 20, 2026. General educational information only; not tax, legal or investment advice. Individual facts and current law must be reviewed. tax return records decisions that have already been made. Year-end planning is different; it gives business owners time to review results, correct course and act before important opportunities close. Because every business has different cash flow, ownership and goals, the best plan is selective rather than complicated. Start with these five areas: 1. Close the Books and Build a Forecast Tax planning begins with reliable numbers. Reconcile bank and credit-card accounts, review receivables and payables, and update your profit-and-loss statement through the latest month. Then project revenue, expenses and owner compensation through December. A current forecast helps distinguish a real planning opportunity from a decision based on incomplete information. 2. Recalculate Estimated Taxes Business income can change quickly. Sole proprietors, partners and S corporation shareholders may need estimated payments when withholding does not cover their expected liability. Compare payments already made with projected federal and New Jersey obligations. An updated calculation can help reduce underpayment surprises while preserving appropriate working capital. CONNECTION COMMENDS A 2026 Year-End Tax Planning: Five Moves Small-Business Owners Should Consider Now By Melissa O’Selmo, EA, PA, CTC-AccuTax Services Warren NJ 732-474-7790 www.accutaxservicesllc.com

THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 18 SEPT/OCT/NOV 2026 t h etchoenc no encnt ei oc nt i son j s. cnoj .mc o m theconnectionsnj.com AUTUMN’S ALLURE DINE, SHOP & CELEBRATE 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 15 Years! We Make Custom Hats centuries. In fall, when the traffic has died down, the sand has cooled, and the crowds have headed home, it is the perfect time to pack up your family and friends and head back down to the Shore to explore the historic lighthouses. A great way to plan your adventure is to participate in the annual Lighthouse Challenge, which is held on the third weekend of October each year. This year, the Challenge includes sites on the Atlantic Coast from Sandy Hook to Cape May and the Delaware Bay and River Coast from Cape May to Paulsboro. Eleven lighthouses, four light saving stations, and one museum participated. Although the sites are open to everyone, if you pay a small entry fee of orget about what the calendar says. Labor Day might have passed, but there are still miles of gorgeous shoreline that we have in New Jersey. Without the traffic or the crowds, fall is a great time to explore the historic lighthouses that pepper our coastline. They are open every day, but if you are up for a challenge, pack up the car and spend the weekend of October 17th and 18th as part of the annual Lighthouse Challenge. Summertime at the Jersey Shore is filled with lazy days on the sand, frolicking in the surf, boardwalk rides, games, and, of course, funnel cake. There is not much time to appreciate the tall structures that have illuminated and protected the beaches for $10 you can join the Challenge and collect a souvenir at each site you visit. If the idea of visiting historical sites seems daunting to you because you have young children, do not fret. The website has a page on “How to Do the Challenge with Kids and Survive” that was created by a mom and preschool teacher. It includes creative ideas like keeping a total number of steps at each lighthouse, then adding them up and competing to see who can come the closest at guessing the total. Another idea is to come up with fun questions to ask the volunteers, like how many bricks the lighthouse is made of or what some shipwreck stories are. (Kids love a good shipwreck story!) Of course, another idea that always works is having food in the trunk and opening it up for “trunk snacks” after each tour. Allowing the kids to snack between sites makes the time in the car go much more quickly! These and more ideas are included on the website below. They will keep your kids engaged, energized, and learning while, most importantly, having a fun family day, This year the Challenge is celebrating America 250 and honoring Sandy Hook Lighthouse, which was the only New Jersey Lighthouse standing during the Revolution. Each participant will be given a map of colonial NJ with pockets on the map where each site is located. You can collect a wooden coin at each site visited to complete your map. The lighthouses at Sea Girt, Barnegat, Barnegat Light, Navesink Twin Lights, and more are all participating in the Challenge, but they are open to the public and host tours and special events throughout the year. If you want to plan a Lighthouse adventure, even if you cannot make the Challenge weekend, check out the Lighthouse Challenge website at www.lighthousechallengenj.com/ to see a list of locations. Then log on to the individual websites for information on hours, tours, and special events. The Jersey Shore is not just for summer anymore, and exploring our historic lighthouses is a great way to enjoy it year-round! Lighthouse Challenge-Accepted By Joanne Kleinle FAMILY ADVENTURES F

PAGE 19 theconnectionsnj.com AUTUMN’S ALLURE DINE, SHOP & CELEBRATE ewish Family Service of Somerset, Hunterdon, and Warren Counties (JFS) will host An Afternoon of Hope and Harmony, a festive holiday fundraiser, on Sunday, November 15, 2026, from 12:30 to 4:00 p.m. at Temple Beth-El in Hillsborough, New Jersey. The event will support JFS’s mission of providing hope, help, and healing to individuals and families of all faiths and backgrounds throughout the region. Guests will enjoy an afternoon of holiday shopping with a variety of unique vendors, followed by a Glatt Kosher deli lunch prepared by Exquisite Caterers of Marlboro, New Jersey, featuring carving stations with turkey, corned beef, and pastrami, a Dr. Brown’s soda bar, and an array of accompaniments. The afternoon will culminate in a performance by the internationally acclaimed a cappella group SIX13, known for their harmonies, humor, and energy. The event is made possible through the generosity of The Nancy L. and Arthur E. Lee Family Fund. Thanks to their support, every dollar raised will go directly to individuals and families in need of JFS services. For 47 Years, Meeting the Needs of a Growing Community For nearly five decades, JFS has built a reputation as a trusted resource for individuals and families navigating life’s challenges. Funded through educational programs, community events, individual donations, sponsorships, program fees, federal and state grants, The Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation, the Somerset County Board of Commissioners and the ongoing support of the Jewish Federation of West Central New Jersey, JFS is able to offer a broad range of services tailored to the community’s evolving needs. Examples include: • Social groups for neurodivergent youth and young adults, creating welcoming spaces for connection, friendship, and belonging. • Grocery shopping assistance for homebound seniors, helping older adults maintain independence, nutrition, and connection to their community from the comfort of home. • In-home care for Holocaust survivors, supporting survivors as they age with dignity in the homes and communities they know. • Counseling and support services for individuals and families facing life’s most difficult moments, regardless of faith or background. “Choosing to support local nonprofit organizations is more than an act of generosity-it is an investment in compassion, dignity, and the well-being of our neighbors,” said Carolyn Katz, JFS President. “Every ticket, sponsorship, and gift to An Afternoon of Hope and Harmony helps us continue this work.” Event Details What: An Afternoon of Hope and Harmony, featuring holiday vendor shopping, a Glatt Kosher deli lunch, and a performance by SIX13. When: Sunday, November 15, 12:30-4:00 pm. Where: Temple Beth-El, Hillsborough. Tickets & Sponsorships: contact www.jewishfamilysvc.org/events. Contact: Shaina Sherman, Jewish Family Service of Somerset, Hunterdon & Warren Counties 908-725-7799 or email her at ssherman@jewishfamilysvc.org or visit www.jewishfamilysvc.org. NEWS Jewish Family Service to Host “An Afternoon of Hope and Harmony,” a Fall Fundraiser Celebrating 47 Years of Caring for Community Holiday shopping, kosher dining, and a performance by SIX13 will benefit programs serving families across Somerset, Hunterdon, and Warren Counties COMMUNITY J Jewish Family Service JFS of Somerset, Hunterdon and Warren Counties This event is possible through the generosity of the Nancy L., and Arthur E. Lee Family Fund Temple Beth-El, Hillsborough, NJ NOVEMBER SUNDAY 12:30-4:00 PM 2026 15

THE BRIDGEWATER-SOMERVILLE CONNECTION PAGE 20 SEPT/OCT/NOV 2026 t h etchoenc no encnt ei oc nt i son j s. cnoj .mc o m theconnectionsnj.com AUTUMN’S ALLURE DINE, SHOP & CELEBRATE Expires 11/13/26. Not to be combined with any other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. Expires 11/13/26. Not to be combined with any other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. Expires 11/13/26. Not to be combined with any other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. Expires 11/13/26. Not to be combined with any other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. Expires 11/13/26. Not to be combined with any other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. Buffalo Wings Dinner For Two $23.50 Family Chicken Fiesta COUPONS CAN BE USED MULTIPLE TIMES Chicken Jubilee 12 Pieces of Chicken $36.95 Double Order of French Fries or Mashed Potatoes Plus 1lb. of Salad of Choice 1lb. Salad of Choice Triple Order of French Fries or Mashed Potatoes Plus 6 Rolls $51.50 8 Pieces of Chicken Single French Fries 16 Pieces of Chicken NOW Larger Quantities Available or Mashed Potatoes Plus 1/2 lb. of Salad of Choice Larger Quantities Available 8 Pc. Chicken $18.25 12 Pc. Chicken $27.25 16 Pc. Chicken $35.95 20 Pc. Chicken $44.95 16 BuffaloWings 24 Buffalo Wings 48 Buffalo Wings 100 Buffalo Wings $20.95 $30.95 $61.95 $122.95 8 Pieces of Chicken 20 Piece Shrimp Basket Single French Fries or Mashed Potatoes Plus 1/2 lb. of Salad of Choice $30.95 Expires 11/13/26. Not to be combined with any other offer. Valid at Bridgewater location only. Expires 11/13/26. 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 Plans Available for any Special Occasion! Home & Office Parties, Birthdays, Anniversaries & More! 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 $69.95 732-469-4111 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 Step into a World of Creativity… Open-Air Artisan Market Saturday, October 3 | 10am-4pm 3592 Route 22 | Whitehouse, NJ 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 ARTISAN MARKET Burnt Mill Potters Whitehouse NJ October 3rd 10am - 4pm Pottery, crafts and art for sale Decorative tray carving workshop Succulent planting Wheel throwing Snowman luminary workshop Studio tours CREATIVE CORNER Get Ready for Soup Season By Carolyn Hanson Rd 9: PM, sc in ea st to end. Rd 10: PM, sc in bkl of ea st to end. Note: Now increases are in 4 locations to create a square edge. Sides: Rd 11: PM, sc in ea st to end. Rd 12: *3 sc in next st, PM in center increase, sc in next 15 sts*, rpt btw *s (76 sts and 4 markers) (12 sts increased) Rd 13: Sc in ea st around moving makers to the center st. Rd 14: *3 sc in marked st, PM in center increase, sc in next 17 sts*, rpt btw *s (88 sts and 4 markers) Rd 15: Sc in ea st around moving makers to the center increase st. Continue repeating Rd 14 and 15 as follows: On even rds, create 3 sc in the marked sts, marking the center increase and sc sts in between the makers. On odd rds, rpt Rd 15. When the sides are above the edge of your bowl or to desired height, end with Rd 15. FO. Weave in ends. My favorite soup… lentil with fennel, topped with aged parmesan. What’s yours? love soup! I enjoy it all year round, not just the cool months. Making different soups each week provides great variety. Each batch makes enough for 6-8 servings. Slow and long cooking, then overnight in the fridge for best flavor. Soup is always best the next day. Leftovers are apportioned into pint-size containers for freezing. Ten minutes in the microwave and provides a healthy, hearty, home-cooked meal. However, the microwave makes the bowl too hot to handle. So, rather than grab potholders, I use a soup bowl cozy. It’s amazing and fits the bowl perfectly! My favorite is crocheted in cotton yarn using single crochet. Here’s how to make one yourself. Yarn: Cascade Yarns Ultra Pima 100% Cotton DK yarn, 219 yards (no metallic fibers of any kind, only cotton) Hook: Size F (3.75mm) Notions: 4 safety pin-style markers Abbreviations: bkl - back loop ea - each FO - Finish off PM - Place Marker Rd - Round rpt - repeat Sc - Single Crochet St(s) - Stitch(s) Directions: Note: Move marker to the beginning of each round. Bottom: Ch 2 Rd 1: 8 sc in 2nd ch from hook. Rd 2: PM, 2 sc in ea st (16 sts) Rd 3: PM, *2 sc in next st, sc in next st*, rpt btw *s (24 sts) Rd 4: PM, *2 sc in next st, sc in next 2 st*, rpt btw *s (32 sts) Rd 5: PM, *2 sc in next st, sc in next 3 st*, rpt btw *s (40 sts) Rd 6: PM, *2 sc in next st, sc in next 4 st*, rpt btw *s (48 sts) Rd 7: PM, *2 sc in next st, sc in next 5 st*, rpt btw *s (56 sts) Rd 8: PM, *2 sc in next st, sc in next 6 st*, rpt btw *s (64 sts) I

PAGE 21 theconnectionsnj.com HEALTH & WELLNESS ne of the greatest misconceptions about aging is that declining health is inevitable. While aging itself is a natural process, many of the chronic conditions commonly associated with growing older—including diabetes, heart disease, cognitive decline, osteoporosis, and autoimmune disorders—are influenced by lifestyle, environment, and metabolic health. Functional medicine focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of illness long before symptoms become disease, allowing patients to age with greater vitality, resilience, and independence. A healthy lifespan begins with managing one of the body’s most powerful influences: stress. Elevated stress hormones can contribute to inflammation, blood sugar imbalance, digestive dysfunction, hormone disruption, impaired immune function, and accelerated biological aging. Incorporating restorative practices such as mindfulness, breathing exercises, spending time outdoors, regular movement, prayer, journaling, or meaningful social connection helps calm the nervous system and supports the body’s remarkable ability to heal and recover. Nutrition is another cornerstone of healthy aging. Rather than following the latest fad diet, functional medicine emphasizes eating whole, nutrient-dense foods that provide the building blocks for optimal cellular function. Colorful vegetables, quality proteins, healthy fats, fiber-rich foods, nuts, seeds, and antioxidant-rich fruits supply essential vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients that help reduce inflammation and protect against oxidative stress. Equally important is minimizing ultra-processed foods, refined sugars, and inflammatory dietary patterns that can contribute to insulin resistance, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic dysfunction. Sleep is often called the body’s “overnight repair program,” and for good reason. During restorative sleep, the brain clears metabolic waste, hormones are regulated, tissues are repaired, and the immune system is strengthened. Poor sleep has been linked to increased inflammation, impaired memory, weight gain, insulin resistance, and higher rates of cardiovascular disease. Establishing consistent sleep habits and addressing underlying contributors can dramatically improve both health and quality of life. Movement is equally essential. Regular physical activity supports nearly every organ system in the body. Aerobic exercise promotes cardiovascular health, while resistance training preserves lean muscle mass, strengthens bones, improves insulin sensitivity, and enhances balance and mobility. Flexibility and balance exercises help reduce the risk of falls and maintain independence as we age. The goal is not perfection but consistency. Perhaps one of the greatest advantages of functional medicine is its emphasis on proactive, personalized prevention. Instead of waiting for laboratory values to become abnormal enough to diagnose disease, functional medicine practitioners often evaluate advanced and predictive biomarkers that may reveal early changes in inflammation, metabolic health, cardiovascular risk, nutrient status, hormone balance, gastrointestinal function, and immune regulation. These insights can identify subtle imbalances before symptoms develop. While laboratory testing is only one piece of the clinical picture, it can be a valuable tool for guiding prevention and optimizing long-term wellness. Healthy aging is not about simply living longer—it is about preserving energy, mental clarity, strength, and purpose throughout life. Every positive choice made today influences tomorrow’s health. By reducing chronic inflammation, supporting the body’s natural healing mechanisms, optimizing nutrition, prioritizing restorative sleep, staying physically active, and utilizing personalized preventive care, we can help create a future where aging is defined not by decline, but by vitality. At our practice, we believe that it is never too early-or too late-to invest in your future health. Healthy aging begins with understanding your unique biology and making intentional choices that support wellness for years to come. Dr. Sferra is board certified in Chiropractic Medicine and Chiropractic Neurology, a Certified Clinical Nutritionist and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist certified by the National Strength & Conditioning Association. He is the founder and Clinic Director of Natural Medicine & Rehabilitation. For more information visit www.NMRNJ.com, or call 908-252-0242. HEALTH HOTLINE Healthy Aging Begins Long Before We Feel Old By Dr. Vince Sferra, DC, DIBCN, CSCS O Airway & Functional Dentistry • Pediatric and Adult airway evaluations • Growth & development assessments • Sleep-disordered breathing screening • Functional oral health care Laser Dentistry • In-office laser frenectomy • Minimally invasive treatment • Infant, child & adolescent care Early Myofunctional Orthodontics • Jaw & facial growth monitoring • Early intervention when appropriate • Healthy breathing & oral function support COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES Infant & Early Childhood Care • Feeding assessments • Tongue & lip tie evaluations • Breastfeeding & bottle-feeding support • Oral development screenings SMILE WELLNESS HOBOKEN & BEDMINSTER, NJ Pediatric Airway • Feeding • Growth • Development A specialized boutique dental practice focused on oral development, airway health, feeding, and functional dentistry. LED BY DR. RADHIKA KAPOOR At Smile Wellness Hoboken and Bedminster, we focus on identifying and addressing oral and airway concerns that may affect feeding, breathing, sleep, speech, and facial development. Contact us for NEW PATIENT PROMO *Rules and Restrictions Apply* (201) 685-0171 info@smilewellness.com DM US TO BOOK AND STAY INFORMED OF FUTURE EVENTS! Call our center at 908-252-0242 for a consultation to see how NMR can assist you in reaching your health and wellness goals. NMRNJ.com | (908) 252-0242 | 399 Campus Drive, Somerset Dr. Vince Sferra, DC DIBCN Founder of Natural Medicine and Rehabilitation • Healthy Aging & Bone Health • Metabolic & Hormone Optimization • Medical Weight Loss • Clinical Nutrition • Chiropractic/PT/OT • Men's Health • Onero for Osteoporosis At NMR, the reasons for your health concerns will be comprehensively assessed and a care plan designed to address all aspects of your condition. Regain your Health & Restore your Strength & Vitality for Life

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