The Connection Bernards-Ridge Edition Jun/July/August 2018

www.theconnectionsnj.com Gentle Shepherd Christian Preschool A mission of Somerset Hills Lutheran Church Serving the Community for over 25 years Registering Now For: 2018-2019 Programs 2 1 / 2 ’s Classes 3’s Classes 4’s & 4’s+ Classes Enrichment Classes offered in Sports, Art, Dance & more! We also offer Childcare at affordable prices 6 weeks through 5 years old 350 Lake Rd., Basking Ridge, NJ 07920 908-766-1430 gscp@shlc.net • www.gentleshepherd.net Interim Director: Krissy Hosler BEST MULTIGENERATIONAL DAY TRIP: GROUNDS FOR SCULPTURE By: Jill Stolz When I think about the most special places to spend the day, Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton is always at the top of the list. The 42-acre public park and arboretum was founded by Seward Johnson in 1992 to pro- mote understanding and appre- ciation for contemporary sculp- ture. The winding paths, paved terraces and pergolas are sur- rounded by woodlands, ponds and bamboo groves, with more than 100 plant species and over 2,000 trees, many of them unusual and rare specimens. Keep your eyes open for a pea- cock or two roaming around! The serene natural setting is juxtaposed by the vast collection of more than 270 contemporary sculptures by both renowned and emerging artists. Additionally, seasonally changed exhibits can be viewed in the numerous indoor galleries. There are work- shops for adults and children, lectures, family events, and music and dance performances throughout the year. Strolling the paths and taking in the visually arresting sculp- tures is a great way to get some exercise, enjoy being outside and have a cultural experience, whether you are with a baby in a stroller, young children, grown children or older parents. While children can run along the paths, there is no climbing allowed on the artwork and no pets are permitted on the grounds. A variety of dining options makes a visit here an ideal way to spend time with family, friends or visitors. The Peacock Café serves sandwich- es, salads, pizza and snacks. The French-inspired Van Gogh Café serves Parisian street food, patis- serie, crepes, baguette sand- wiches and snacks. If you order at least 24 hours in advance, the Plan Ahead Picnic in the Park will provide a basket filled with items of your choice to enjoy on the beautiful grounds. In the summer, the Gazebo offers cool- ing drinks and ice cream treats. For those who are celebrating a special occasion or are in the mood for a high-end, gourmet meal, Rats is the perfect choice. Named for the main character from the children’s classic, The Wind in the Willows, you will be seemingly transported back in time to Monet’s Giverney, com- plete with sophisticated French cuisine and whimsically chic décor. Reservations for lunch or dinner are required and need to be made in advance. I hope you will take advantage of this unique and special Garden State gem soon! “Art is a harmony parallel with nature.” – Paul Cezanne “Keep your love of nature, for that is the true way to understand art more and more.” – Vincent Van Gogh MONTGOMERY ACADEMY “WHERE YOU CAN BE YOURSELF” Basking Ridge, NJ www.montgomeryacademyonline.org 908-766-0362 $ ! ! # " " ! ! PAGE 14 Summer Programs 2018 Summer Programs 2018