THE WARREN-WATCHUNG CONNECTION PAGE 6 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2026 8 Medical Minutes: Performance Ortho 10 Commends: Holy Cross Cemetery & Mausoleum 12-22 SHOPPING, DINING, BEAUTY & EVENTS 12 Valentine's Day Gift Inspirations 15 Fashion Flash: Adam’s Fine Clothing & Tuxedo 16 Family Adventures: Joanne Kleinle 18 Connection Community Champions: NJ Ballroom Dancers 19 Creative Corner: Carolyn Hanson 20 Slice of Life: Ellyn Mantell 23-26 KIDZ CONNECTION 24 Teen Voice: Siya Gokhale 25 Camp Vibes: NJ Camp Fairs 26 Shelf Awareness: Sonia Prabhakar & Isabella Santos 27-31 HEALTH & WELLNESS 28 Mind the Mind: Dr. Michael Osit 29 Health Hotline: NMR 30 Food for Thought: Lori Kolodin 31 Campers & Caviar: Serafina Perrotto 32-33 SENIOR LIVING 32 Senior Corner: Ellyn Mantell 33 Health Hotline: Balance & Flow Thai Chi 35-41 HOME & DESIGN 36 Hints for the Home- Fair Street Interiors 40 Financial Forum: Shapiro CPAs 42-43 COMMUNITY CALENDAR Heather Deegan Hires Title of artwork: Elephant Medium: acrylics, ink & charcoal Heather Deegan Hires is a self-taught, South Jersey artist, residing in Atlantic City, NJ. She enjoys creating paintings on canvases, using acrylic paints, mixed media, charcoal & inks. She is very involved in the blossoming art community in Atlantic City, NJ and often creates murals, art installations and interactive art experiences. She is often known for her body painting & live performance. While there is a love for the contrast between black and white, Heather most often can be found painting in bright vibrant colors. Inspired by her surroundings and a creative flow, her art tends to sway to an edgier, unique style. Instagram: Heatherartz_ and bodypaintingbyheather FB: Heather Deegan Hires (609) 453-8502 | Heather-2@hotmail.com | heatherartz@hotmail.com THE CONNECTION MAGAZINE'S TEAM PUBLISHED BY Georgeann Agaisse, Heather Silver, Alicia Singman, Jeanette Vogel, Pramisa Timsina 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 Sno' Problem Plumbing in the November issue is John Galano of Warren. John won a gift certificate to Silk Road Afghan & Mediterranean Cuisine. Next Issue April! Advertising deadline March 11, 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... Happy New Year—and hello to a fresh start! Welcome to the Warren-Watchung edition of our February issue. As we say goodbye to last year, we welcome a new year filled with opportunity, good health, and meaningful connections. February is a time to reflect on what truly matters-community, relationships, and supporting the local businesses that make our neighborhoods thrive. At The Connection Magazine, our mission has always been to keep small businesses at the forefront. When you shop locally, you’re not just making a purchase, you’re investing in personalized service, unique finds, and one-of-a-kind experiences you simply won’t find online or in big-box stores. From thoughtful gifts to exceptional service, local businesses o er something truly special. Visit them for all things local, and please be sure to tell them we sent you. This issue, we’re celebrating Valentine’s Day with a specially curated guide filled with local treasures for food, fashion, and fun. Our Valentine’s Guide showcases businesses across all three Connection editions, The Warren–Watchung, Bernards–Ridge, and Bridgewater– Somerville Editions, giving you endless inspiration for celebrating the people you love. Whether you’re searching for a memorable dining experience, a unique gift, or something beautifully unexpected, you’ll find it right here. This issue is also packed with inspiration to start the year strong. Explore our Health & Wellness section to discover trusted local providers dedicated to keeping your body and mind healthy. Turn to our Home section for ideas along with experts ready to help with projects you’ve been meaning to tackle. Whether it’s remodeling, decorating, or buying/selling your home you will find them here. Be sure to check our Community Calendar, available both in print and online, highlighting activities and events for children and adults alike. There’s always something happening close to home. Our front cover is adorned with a painting entitled Elephant, by Heather Deegan Hires. Heather truly elevates the ordinary by incorporating brilliant, festive colors. She says she was inspired to paint an elephant because it is “a magical creature, vibrant, and full of wisdom and peace.” Looking for something di erent to do? Love music and theater? Support your local high school’s rising drama stars by attending the upcoming musicals slated for March. Please read Joanne Kleinle’s Family Adventures column to find out more about two amazing productions that Watchung Hills Regional High School and Basking Ridge High School are o ering this winter. Read our Hints for the Home by Gail Bicknell which features a discussion of “Color and Mood” within home décor. Not only does she provide tips on how to choose the right color but also recommends some iconic ones to incorporate into your favorite rooms. She reminds us that, “Color is deeply personal. Identify what you’re attracted to. And enjoy!” We’re also excited to share that The Connection Magazine is now on TikTok! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for all things local and get a bird’s-eye view of restaurants and shops to visit. Our featured businesses appear both in print and online. Visit us digitally at theconnectionsnj.com. Thank you for supporting local, supporting community, and supporting The Connection Magazine. Here’s to a year of growth, connection, and community spirit. Warmly, Anna Petro Publisher, The Connection Magazine A Note From Our Publisher... CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Gail Bicknell, Siya Gokhale, Carolyn Hanson, Joanne Kleinle, Lori Kolodin, Ellyn Mantell, David J. Marzano, Dr. Joseph Mejia, Dr. Michael Osit, Serafina Perrotto, Sonia Prabhakar, Isabella Santos, Dr. Vince Sferra, Robert Shapiro, Chris Wilson
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