THE WARREN-WATCHUNG CONNECTION PAGE 6 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2025 10 Community News: JFS 12-21 SHOPPING, DINING, BEAUTY & EVENTS 12 Valentine's Day Gift Inspirations 14 Commends: Sab’s Collectibles 15 Commends: Providence Bar & Kitchen 16 Fashion Flash: Tea & Oranges 18 Creative Corner: Carolyn Hanson 22-25 KIDZ CONNECTION 23 Camp Confidential: NJ Camp Fairs 24 Teen Voice: Adithya Bharath 25 Family Adventures: Joanne Kleinle 26-28 SENIOR LIVING 26 Senior Health: ComForCare Home Care 27 Slice of Life: Ellyn Mantell 28 Senior Corner: Ellyn Mantell 33-43 HEALTH & WELLNESS 33 Lessons of a Life Coach- Jane Cooperman 34 Commends: Providence Medical & Infusion Center 37 Medical Minutes: Performance Ortho 38 The Art of Living – Barry Farber, Diamond Minds 39 Heath Hotline: NMR 40 Heath Hotline: True Fit Balance 41 Commends: Transcendental Meditation-Summit 42 Food for Thought: Lori Kolodin, MPH,RD 44-53 HOME & DESIGN 45 Commends: Flemington Tile Supply 47 Commends: Alber’s Fireplaces 48 Financial Forum: Shapiro CPAs 50 Real Estate Corner: Stacey Colman, RE/MAX Premier 51 Hints for the Home- Fair Street Interiors 53 Commends: Kope Electric 54-55 COMMUNITY CALENDAR 56 Mind the Mind: Dr. Michael Osit Natasha Malenkova Title of Artwork: Winter Night Natasha Malenkova is an accomplished artist and designer from Bridgewater, New Jersey. She began her career in a metallurgical factory, where she skillfully created elegant spaces for social events and relaxation. Her talent extended to stage design, earning her recognition for her work in theatrical productions. Around 2010, Natasha transitioned from contemporary designs to the traditional canon of art, focusing on painting church icons. Her revered works are now displayed in numerous churches across various states. Natasha's artistic journey has led her to explore various mediums, including oil pastels, watercolors, and acrylics. Recently, she has developed a profound appreciation for oil paint, often blending it with other materials to create distinctive effects in her artwork. Grounded in realism, her work spans a wide range of subjects, from portraits of people and animals to depictions of nature and everyday scenarios. Her most recent pieces celebrate the beauty of life and the untouched wilderness. In addition to her diverse artistic endeavors, Natasha is an illustrator for a children's journal, bringing stories to life with her captivating illustrations. Her work has been showcased in multiple exhibits, including the Farmstead Arts Center and the Bridgewater Public Library, where she continues to inspire and engage the community with her exceptional talent. THE CONNECTION MAGAZINE'S TEAM PUBLISHED BY Donna Reina, Georgeann Agaisse, Heather Silver, Patty Herman, Alicia Singman 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 Rolling in the Dough Fake ad in the November issue is Maria Carroll of Warren. Maria won a gift certificate to Fan Bistro in New Providence. Next Issue April! Advertising deadline March 21, 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... Happy New Year! As we say goodbye to last year, let’s look ahead to a bright and promising year filled with opportunities, connections, and community spirit. With February upon us, we’re excited to bring you The February issue of the Warren-Watchung Connection, your trusted resource for all things local. This month, we celebrate the joy of shopping small and supporting the incredible businesses that make our community thrive. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, whether you’re looking for a unique treasure, a personalized touch, or simply the convenience of shopping close to home, our local businesses are ready to help you find the perfect gift. Their personalized service and commitment to quality set them apart—and they’re right here in your neighborhood. In addition to celebrating local businesses, The Connection Magazine is your onestop guide for all your needs, whether you’re exploring health and wellness, financial planning, real estate, home remodeling, or decorating ideas. Looking for fun ways to make the most of these winter months? Be sure to explore our Community Calendar in print or online! It’s packed with exciting activities for children and adults alike. Winter is the perfect time to discover all that our community has to o er, and we’re here to help you stay connected to the best events and happenings. Don’t miss our Family Adventures column, “Wrap Up and Get Outside.” Even though it’s cold out, there are plenty of fun and educational activities to participate in this winter. Joanne Kleinle gives the run down on the programs being o ered by the Environmental Education Center in Basking Ridge. Visit them to learn all about maple sugaring or to boost your step count on a “Woodland Walk.” There are also many programs geared exclusively to kids. And remember to dress WARM! If you are contemplating selling your home, be sure to read Real Estate Corner. Local luxury real estate expert, Stacey Colman, has compiled an extensive guide to preparing your house for selling. Her recommendations, from sprucing up curb appeal to staging your home, will surely “Maximize Your Home’s Value for the Spring Market.” A magnificent winter scene graces our cover. The serene landscape and soft hues invite one on a winter walk through the woods. Natasha Malenkova’s inspiration for painting Winter Night was, “The stunning colors…combined with the tranquil and mysterious charm of the forest.” As we embark on this New Year together, I want to take a moment to thank you, our readers, for your continued support. It’s your enthusiasm for local businesses and your commitment to our community that inspire us to create a magazine that truly connects us all. Here’s to a February filled with love, connection, and plenty of local discoveries. Keep this issue of The Connection Magazine at your fingertips, on your co ee table or kitchen counter, as your go-to guide for everything you need, all in one place. We’re proud to be your partner in making this community a wonderful place to live, work, and play. Warm wishes, Anna Petro Publisher, The Connection Magazine A Note From Our Publisher... CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Adithya Bharath, Gail Bicknell, Stacey Colman, Jane Cooperman, Kaylynn Ebner, Carolyn Hanson, Joanne Kleinle, Lori Kolodin, Randy Mackenzie, Ellyn Mantell, Katrina Musto, Naomi Noto, Robert Shapiro, Dr. Vincent Sferra, Gary Steck, Jill Witte, Margot Zigmont
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