Travel

Escape the Cold: Find Sunshine

Cure those winter blues with a tropical getaway Article by Shari Erasmus | Photography by provided As a travel advisor, I love helping my clients find the perfect winter getaway. With winter’s chill approaching, there’s no better time to escape to the sun-kissed shores of the Caribbean. Here are just a few fabulous hotels I can book for you, complete with exclusive extras! Jumby Bay, Antigua , is a true tropical paradise, perfect for both families and couples. This private island resort...

Life + Culture

When Duty Calls

Honoring our local heroes who can't be home for the holidays Article by Sue Baldani | Photography by Photos by Craig Smith For many, holidays are about spending time with family and friends. Whether that includes opening presents, enjoying a wonderful meal, or just sitting around reminiscing, these days are special and often a break from the everyday hustle and bustle.  However, there are many people who don’t always get to celebrate these joyous occasions. Here, we meet three such responders...

Home + Design

The Gift of Creativity

Celebrate the holidays with DIY gifts from the heart Article by Carly Okyle When Patrice Chatman first entered AR Workshop in Westfield -- the company she’s owned since September 2023 -- she was working in corporate America and looking for a creative outlet.  “I came across AR Workshop through a friend,” Chatman explained. “I’m not artsy and I’m not crafty but I took a hand lettering workshop. I didn't get it.” She lacked ability but compensated with determination and open-mindedness. “We...

Life + Culture

There’s H.O.P.E. Up On The Hill

The girls of Mount Saint Mary Academy make giving to the local community fun Article by Erika Landis | Photography by provided Serenely perched up on a hill overlooking Route 22, Mount Saint Mary Academy is anything but removed from the community. The spirit of giving is alive and well year-round thanks to the H.O.P.E. Club, the school’s popular after-school activity. The acronym stands for Helping Other People Everywhere and focuses its work on community outreach. Mount Saint Mary Academy, a...

Food + Beverage

Savory Thanksgiving Tradition

Celebrate Comfort Food and Community with Savory Selections Catering & Pop-Up’s Delicious Dirty Rice Recipe! Article by Sophia Makbeb Since 2009, Savory Selections Catering has been a beloved part of the Scotch Plains community. The enterprise is co-owned by Felton Jones, a former youth basketball coach. Alongside his wife, Jill, and son, Ryan, Felton pours his heart into every dish, crafting traditional comfort food that brings the community together.  Located at 1731 East Second Street...

Wellness

Personalized, Professional Therapy

Finding the Source and Providing Relief from Discomfort Article by Sue Baldani | Photography by Craig Smith Photography Unfortunately, healthcare has become somewhat of a numbers game - get as many patients in and out as fast as possible. Jay and Kate Neiswinter, physical therapists from Scotch Plains, wanted to change that in order to get to know their patients on a deeper level. So, they opened Individual Physical Therapy six years ago.  “Our first office was in Gillette, and we started...

Finance + Legal Services

Smart Money Moves

Let an expert guide you on your financial journey Article by Sue Baldani | Photography by Craig Smith Photography When it comes to financial management, it’s best to consult with an experienced professional. Professional financial advisors can help make planning for the new year and into the future both seamless and effective by taking into account their clients’ particular lifestyles, ages and goals. Here, we introduce you to one.    John M. Capeci   Financial Advisor with Edward James   ...

Fitness

Bring the Heat

HOTWORX Fitness Studio in Garwood Warms Your Body and Soul This Season. Article by Carly Okyle | Photography by Elena Goggin As the temperatures drop for the fall, HOTWORX Garwood is heating up. Less than a year after opening the infrared exercise space -- Robin Pritzlaff and her husband Donny officially opened for business in January 2024, with the grand opening happening in March -- membership is growing monthly. Robin Pritzlaff is not surprised at all by the fast-growing popularity. “We...

Life + Culture

Cultivating Gratitude and Thankfulness Through Meditation

Fanwood's Dhammakaya Meditation Center Provides A Space For All to Reflect Photography by Elena Goggin In a world that often feels overwhelming, the Dhammakaya Meditation Center offers a sanctuary for the mind and spirit. Founded on the principles of relaxation and clarity, this meditation style is not only about finding inner peace but also about nurturing a deep sense of gratitude and thankfulness for the present moment. “Relaxation is the key,” says Pat Inlarp, who, along with Buddhist...

Health + Wellness

Smart Dietary Habits for Healthy Smiles

Keeping teeth strong, white and bright Article by Sue Baldani | Photography by Craig Smith Photography In a perfect world, dentists would prefer that their patients avoid sugar, enamel-staining drinks such as red wine, and anything acidic like coffee or orange juice. But, most know that’s not realistic.   “I will never tell my patients not to eat or drink something,” says Dr. Robert Martino. “We're human and we all have our vices. Instead, I tell them if they choose to do those things, then...