Life + Culture

Turning Grief into Purpose

Lindsay Schambach’s Mission at Imagine Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Lindsay Schambach Lindsay Schambach never envisioned a career in grief support. The former Newark teacher and charter school principal thought her life’s purpose was firmly planted in education. But when her husband, Mike Schambach—Montclair State’s head men’s lacrosse coach and a Bridgewater native—passed away from stage four colon cancer in 2018, everything changed. Left widowed at 35 with two young children...

Life + Culture

Paws, Smiles & Star Moments

Highlights from Our 2025 Cover Model Casting Call Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Jackie Korn - Korn Dogs NJ We came. We saw. We wagged! A huge thank-you to everyone who came out to our Bridgewater  2025 Cover Model Casting Call —and especially to all the fabulous pups who showed up ready for their close-up. The energy, joy, and community spirit on display made this one of our most memorable events yet. This year’s casting call was bigger than ever! With so many adorable...

Food + Beverage

Peanut Butter Oat Balls

A Wholesome Snack for Pups and Their Tiny Humans Article by Jane Alzate At Graze Craze of Wyckoff, we absolutely love creating experiences that bring families and their furry companions together. One of our favorite moments during your recent event was seeing kids and pups nibbling happily side by side—whether it was fresh fruits and veggies or our crowd-favorite  peanut butter oat ball treats . These oat balls are not only quick and easy to make, but they’re also wholesome enough for kids ...

Life + Culture

‘Seed Cats’ and a Mighty Mission

Bernie’s Buddies Cat Rescue Article by Lauren Lovallo | Photography by Bernie’s Buddies Cat Rescue Some startups launch with seed money. Edie Hogan, president and founder of Bernie’s Buddies Cat Rescue, jokes that she launched with “seed cats” instead. For many years, Hogan balanced working full time while volunteering with various cat rescues, shelters and foster programs in New Jersey. But in February 2021, when an acquaintance approached her about rescuing two female cats from a difficult...

Finance + Legal Services

Insurance with Integrity

Navigating Medicare with Fred Torlish Article by Patti Zielinski | Photography by FWT Insurance Services Since 2015, Fred Torlish, owner of FWT Insurance Services, has been helping small businesses and individuals secure health insurance in the most comprehensive and cost effective fashion available. By building relationships with clients and analyzing their needs against the best the market offers, he has given them a solid foundation based on educated choices. Torlish is registered with Get...

Sports + Recreation

Shaping Students Through Sport

After 32 Years, Sandra Baranowski Retires from Bridgewater-Raritan High School Article by Angela Tremarco and Sienna Newsome | Photography by Bridgewater-Raritan High School Softball It’s never easy to step away from something you love — but after 32 years of shaping students both on the field and in the classroom, beloved educator and varsity softball coach Sandra Baranowski has announced that this school year will be her last at Bridgewater-Raritan High School. Her departure marks the end...

Life + Culture

Meet Daisy

Bridgewater's Most Adored Dog Model Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Jackie Korn - Korn Dogs NJ Bridgewater City Lifestyle is proud to introduce the winner of our Doggy Cover Contest— Daisy , a four-year-old Shih Poo from Martinsville who’s just as stylish and sweet as she is playful. Daisy joined her family at a meaningful time—right before their first child left for college. What was supposed to be a casual visit to “just look” at Furrylicious pet boutique turned into an...

Life + Culture

Finding Rocky

How One Rescue Dog Brought Joy, Calm, and Connection to a Local Family Article by Patti Zielinski | Photography by Kevin Yento Bringing a new dog into your home — the wagging tails, the excited yips and the endless wet smooches (from the dog and the kids) — is a life-affirming experience. In a moment, both your family’s and the dog’s lives are transformed.   But let’s take a step back: Nationwide, shelters and rescues are filled with fur babies eager to trade kennels for couch cuddles...

Arts + Culture

Surabhi Khare's Mandala Art

The Local Artist Behind Sur Creative Studio Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Surabhi Khare During the uncertainty of the pandemic, Surabhi Khare a Bridgewater local discovered solace in the intricate patterns of mandalas. What began as a personal journey of mindfulness and healing soon evolved into Sur Creative Studio , a space where art, energy and intention come together to create unique, handcrafted pieces. “I found deep peace in the mesmerizing symmetry and sacred geometry of...

Wellness

Where Wellness Grows Wild

Gemini Sisters Farm Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by David Surks Imagine a place where you can pluck fresh veggies straight from the earth, listen to the rustle of trees on a winding trail, and reconnect with yourself — all in one day. Welcome to Gemini Sisters Farm, a hidden gem blooming on 6 acres in Skillman, New Jersey. Founded by husband-and-wife team David Rodrigues and Alexa Burgess-Rodrigues, Gemini Sisters Farm blends two passions: sustainable farming and holistic healing...