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LIFESTYLE LETTER

JUNE 2021 PUBLISHER

Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@lifestylepubs.com Tiffany Slowinski | tiffany.slowinski@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Let’s Hear It for the Boys!

Patti Zielinski | patti.verbanas@lifestylepubs.com

FIRE UP THE GRILL, BOYS. This month is all about the guys of Bridgewater. What

L AYO UT DESIGNER

are your favorite things about the men in your life?

Emily Lisenbee

AD DESIGNER

Rachel Chrisman

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Dads, granddads, uncles, thank you for the role you play in raising up the kids in our

Lauren Johnson, Jill Scott

community. Whether you coach a sports team, help out with homework, or work

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

extra hard to save up for a surprise trip for your kiddos, we want to take this month

Kennette Productions, Rachel Gallic Photography

to celebrate your efforts. Don’t forget to leave some hints around for your family so they know what to get you for Father’s Day. This issue will provide some fun shopping ideas. Gentlemen, if you find anything you like (Hello Beer, Sneakers and BBQ), you can always dog-ear the page and leave it in the family room or the kitchen! Co-Publisher Jake Slowinski is our resident #GirlDad. It’s also his 40th birthday this month! Be sure to say Happy Birthday when you see him around town! Take it easy this June, enjoy your family time, and don’t forget to do something just for yourself too. Happy Father’s Day, Bridgewater!

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

Tiffany & Jake Slowinski, Publishers

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

CityLifestyle.com/Bridgewater ON THE COVER

SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

Proverbs 3:5-6

RanD Pitts, Owner of Evolve in Somerville

Bridgewater Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of

KENNETTE PRODUCTIONS 8

NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA

Bridgewater Lifestyle | June 2021

the US Postal Service to some of the Bridgewater areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Bridgewater Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE JUNE 2021

FEATURES 16 State of Evolution Evolve Clothing Gallery Uses Innovation to Reach the Cutting-Edge of Fashion and E-Commerce

22 Behind the Badge Sheriff Darrin J. Russo Leads His Team in a Mission to Make Somerset County Safer

28 North “Meats” South Oink and Moo BBQ Brings Smoke, Fire and Flavor to Downtown Somerville

34 Destination Beer Flounder Brewing Company in

16 28

Hillsborough Serves Up Perfect Pints in a Pastoral Setting

22 DEPARTMENTS

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Local Limelight

22 Hometown Hero 28 Culinary Creations 34 Hops & Vine 40 Our Town 44 Food & Wine 48 Giving Back 53 Realty Report 54 Lifestyle Calendar

California Pizza Kitchen • The Cheesecake Factory • Cava Grill • Chipotle Maggiano’s Little Italy • Seasons 52 • Redstone American Grill • Shake Shack Uncle Julio’s Mexican From Scratch • Yong Kong Street Dumpling & Noodle House

Over 25 dining options for every day and special days. Visit BridgewaterCommons.com for a complete list of delicious choices.

GOOD TIMES

Girl Scouts Join Initiative to Plant Five Million Trees Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey (GSHNJ) joins Girl Scouts across the country in planting five million trees by 2026 to help wildlife, improve the environment and greatly expand the amount of tree cover. GSHNJ—one of four councils that received a $5,000 Girl Scout Tree Promise grant—has committed to planting 2,000 trees and integrating tree planting and conservation efforts into events.

Bridgewater Lifestyle | June 2021

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AROUND TOWN to Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Reservations are required on Saturdays for visitors in cars; pedestrians and cyclists do not need a pass. The Orchid Range will be reopened later in the season on Saturdays with limited, first-come-first-served access. The Sunday Farmers’ Market re-opened in May. Learn more at dukefarms.org.

RVCC WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL TEAM FINISHES REGULAR SEASON WITH 9-0 RECORD The Raritan Valley Community College Women’s Volleyball Team had a perfect regular season in 2020-21, finishing with a 9-0 record, without losing a single set. The team traveled to the NJCAA D II East District Championship on April 2, defeating Erie Community College in the semifinals, but losing to West Virginia University Potomac State

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NEW COMMUNITY PARTNER BELLARI HOME REMODELING A

third-generation

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Duke Farms announces a Spring 2021 phased

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re-opening with modified hours and new Saturday

One of the Garden State’s most trusted providers

passes offered by reservation. It is open Tuesday

of home remodeling, Bellari brings vision to life in

Bridgewater Lifestyle | June 2021

Thursday, June 24, 2021 The Palace at Somerset Park

the creation of beautiful, elegant, functional and affordable kitchens, baths, siding, windows, doors, decks, sunrooms, awnings, roofing and more, from design to installation. For more information, visit BellariNJ.com.

Congratulations to our Class of 2021

BRIDGEWATER COMMONS THANKS FRONTLINE AND ESSENTIAL HEALTHCARE WORKERS Bridgewater Commons supported the Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey’s annual cookie sale by donating $1,000 in cookie boxes to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset’s frontline

and

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Troop #61187 made the delivery. “We’re grateful to our local community’s selfless and dedicated healthcare professionals and are proud to recognize the hard and ongoing work they have each undertaken over this past year,” says Bridgewater Commons Marketing Director Tom Kovacic.

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State of Evolution

PHOTOGRAPHY KENNETTE PRODUCTIONS

ARTICLE PATTI ZIELINSKI

EVOLVE CLOTHING GALLERY USES INNOVATION TO REACH THE CUTTING-EDGE OF FASHION AND E-COMMERCE

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

Bridgewater Lifestyle | June 2021

RanD Pitts, Owner of Evolve, Wears a Shirt by Wax London, Ksubi Denim Jeans and New Balance 327 Sneakers

"TOP BRANDS ARE KNOCKING ON OUR DOOR AS MUCH AS WE ARE CHASING THEM." —RanD Pitts A NAME MEANS EVERYTHING. When RanD Pitts and his wife,

Pitts has used his visual, fashion and business acumen to create

Joan, were batting around names for the upscale men’s boutique he

a store that is now known globally. The former DJ from Boston, who

was planning to launch, he was seeking something with a twist—

studied photography and the fashion business at Parsons School of

like how he writes his own name. “I suggested ‘Evolve’ and said we

Design in New York, launched his career in retail when he opened

should take the V and put it in parentheses,” he says. “Then, Joan

Sound Express music store in Somerville in the mid-1990s.

held up two fingers in a sideways V, and I was like yes, yes, yes!”

Yearning to return to fashion years later, Pitts began integrating

Over a decade later, Pitts is still shaking things up, bringing “SoHo

clothing into the music store. “I saw a niche in Somerville,” he says.

to Somerville,” and while he’s at it, he’s making Evolve the place to be

“New Jersey was not known for fashion and was always overshad-

for the world’s hottest designers.

owed by New York, but I thought, ‘Why not bring the city to the suburbs?’ And we evolved.”

CONTINUED >

RanD Pitts, Owner of Evolve

CityLifestyle.com/Bridgewater

S ON T H E E

Pitts refers to himself as the

“curator” of the prestigious

E S H E LV LV E

L AT E S T

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

brands Evolve carries. To get to that point, though, he paid his dues. “It was not always easy. It doesn’t matter how green your

money

is.

Designers

only want to be in stores with brands of their same level,” he says. “After years of climbing that ladder, top brands are now knocking on our door as much

Hot Designer: John Elliott, Los Angeles–based streetwear designer

as we are chasing them.” He finds new brands through networking, fashion shows and listening to buzz. There is also a lot of strategy. For example, as he moved up the echelon, he increasingly carried more prestigious brands with an eye on eventually capturing the attention of California designer John Elliott. The cachet that Elliott brought to Evolve attracted other notable designers who are now vying for a spot on his shelves. “Carrying John Elliott opened a lot of doors for us,” Pitts says.

Hot Designer: Honor the Gift, NBA All-Star Russell Westbrook’s fashion brand

Evolve also has its own brand of attire. Recently, it partnered with the hat company New Era to produce a Major League Baseball–approved series featuring the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees and Oakland Athletics. And Pitts is proud to showcase the looks. “I wear everything in the store,” he says. “I am head-to-toe Evolve.” SHUT DOWN, REV UP Pitts has a strong relationship with Wix, the company that built his website platform. Whenever Wix had a new technology to test, Pitts always raised his hand to be the first to try it out. In early 2020, he offered to test a new point-of-sale technology that would allow him to sell online. Wix sent a team from Israel and the Ukraine to set it up.

Bridgewater Lifestyle | June 2021

Hot Designer: Wax London, contemporary British menswear brand

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self-proclaimed

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guy” seamlessly shifted his marketing and social media outreach to the website, using the technology to process orders online and provide curbside pickup. Online sales exploded. “At that time, we were diving more into footwear,” he says. “Although much of the clothing production had been shut down, the footwear we preordered before the pandemic was coming in, and we started taking orders from people across

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the nation where stores were closed.” Wix noticed how Pitts was thriving during the shutdown due to the website and invited him to film a commercial as a testimonial to the technology. “The commercial went global,” Pitts says. “And now my Somerville store is selling to people worldwide.” Check out the latest styles at evolveclothinggallery.com.

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HOMETOWN HERO

Behind the badge

SHERIFF DARRIN J. RUSSO LEADS HIS TEAM BY EXAMPLE IN A MISSION TO MAKE SOMERSET COUNTY SAFER

ARTICLE PATTI ZIELINSKI PHOTOGRAPHY RACHEL GALLIC PHOTOGRAPHY

Sgt. Karissa Hahn (Right) Stands Next to Sheriff Darrin J. Russo 22

Bridgewater Lifestyle | June 2021

"OUR JOB IS TO DO WHAT WE CAN TO HELP THE PUBLIC." -DARRIN J. RUSSO

ONE SNOWY DAY AS DARRIN J. RUSSO

“We want people to report incidences, no

WAS

DRIVING

COLLEAGUE

WITH

FROM

YOUNGER

matter how minor they think they might be,

THE

FRANKLIN

as these can escalate to something more

TOWNSHIP POLICE DEPARTMENT, HE

severe,” he says.

CAME ACROSS AN ELDERLY WOMAN

Russo believes in the importance of the

STRUGGLING TO SHOVEL SNOW FROM

community getting to know sheriff’s offi-

HER DRIVEWAY AND PULLED OVER.

cers—and seeing people like themselves

When the other officer asked him what

reflected on the force. “As a street cop in

crime he spotted, Russo replied, “None. I’m

Franklin, I know the value of officers being

going to help this lady.” The two officers pro-

active and known in the communities they

ceeded to clear the driveway.

serve,” he says.

Russo, a retired police lieutenant with

Once in office, he moved swiftly to diver-

over 30 years of law enforcement experi-

sify the force, swearing in the first Indian

ence, has brought this public service mind-

female officer, first Muslim female officer

set to his role as Somerset County Sheriff.

and first Asian male officer. Earlier this year,

“I always wanted to help younger officers

he promoted the first female officer in 17

see their jobs as something more than writ-

years. Karissa Hahn, who is Korean, was

ing a ticket and getting bad people off the

the first female School Resource Officer

streets,” he says. “Our job is to do what we

and first female on the Special Response

can to help the public.”

Team. She also serves as the liaison for the

Since he took office in 2020, Russo has launched a number of initiatives to bring sheriff’s officers more into the community, stop recidivism and diversify the force.

LGBTQ community and oversees the Public Relations Division. When Russo was seeking ideas for a social media initiative to remind the public that sher-

Last summer, Russo launched the Hate

iff’s officers were doing a difficult job and had

Crimes Awareness and Prevention Unit,

families of their own, Hahn came up with the

led by Undersheriff Tim Pino, and an

#EveryBadgeHasAFamily campaign. The first

anonymous online reporting tool on the

photo posted was of Russo, his wife, Denise,

Somerset County Sheriff’s Office website,

and their five sons, Justin (28), Mathew (25),

which accepts tips on hateful actions or

Nicholas (24), Ryan (20) and Zachary (16). Two

rhetoric that target religion, race or sexual

sons have followed in his footsteps: Mathew

orientation. In addition, officers maintain

is a member of the Franklin Township Police

communication with community, church

Department and Ryan, who enlisted in the

and school leaders who might learn about

Marines after high school, is a corrections

hate crimes through their constituents.

officer in Somerset County.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Bridgewater

HOMETOWN HERO (CONTINUED) Russo also has expanded the K-9 Unit, which has three officers/ handlers and four dogs that focus on bombs, narcotics, arson and search. One of the units is on loan to the Drug Enforcement Administration. “This was the first time one of our K-9s was sworn in as a DEA agent,” he says. Overhauling prisoner re-entry programs to prevent recidivism is another initiative. “I have seen firsthand the damage done to individuals, families and communities when incarcerated people re-entering society are unable to resume productive lives and instead resort to crime to support themselves,” Russo says. “We can help people find a better route, whether it is through education or a job.” Russo tells younger officers the same thing he told his sons growing up: “Always help people, even when no one is looking and there is no reward. You may not always get a ‘thank you,’ but you help because it is the right thing to do.” Find out more about the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office by visiting co.somerset.nj.us/government/elected-officials/sheriff.

Sheriff’s Officers Shannon Snook, Christofer Aboosamara and Lorenzo Moye Jr. with K-9 Basilone

Basilone 24

Bridgewater Lifestyle | June 2021

Somerset County Sheriff Darrin J. Russo CityLifestyle.com/Bridgewater

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CULINARY CREATIONS

Nor t h “Meats” S out h ARTICLE LAUREN JOHNSON

PHOTOGRAPHY KENNETTE PRODUCTIONS

FOR JOSH SACKS, CHEF AND CO-OWNER OF OINK AND MOO BBQ, BARBECUE IS MORE THAN JUST DELICIOUS—IT’S AN OBSESSION. From experimenting at home, to taking “barbecue vacations” down south through the Carolinas and to Austin, Texas, and studying with some of the best pitmasters around, Sacks has hand-picked the flavors he loves best and learned to re-create them to share with others. “Every town has their own style: Brisket is big in Texas, pork and ribs are big in the Carolinas, Memphis does dry rub and Kansas City has burnt ends,” he says, explaining how he took what he liked from each of these regions to bring to his restaurant in New Jersey. Sacks’ obsession with barbecue got him discovered, and before long he was asked to cater private events. The popularity of his barbecue spread, and in 2011 he started a food truck. Not long after, the demand for his food truck led to a brick-and-mortar location in Hampton, New Jersey, which was a bustling sit-down restaurant—until the pandemic hit. “In a social climate unable to support a large, dine-in restaurant, I had to reinvent the business,” he says. Sacks and his business partner, Culinary Institute of America–trained chef Kevin Trimarchi, relocated to Somerville, which proved to be the perfect spot to introduce the concept of their restaurant and BBQ market. “I love Somerville. It’s a cool spot that’s growing, especially in their restaurant scene,” Sacks says. Chipotle Chicken Tacos

Bridgewater Lifestyle | June 2021

OINK AND MOO BBQ BRINGS SMOKE, FIRE AND FLAVOR TO DOWNTOWN SOMERVILLE

Josh Sacks, Chef and Co-owner, Oink and Moo BBQ

“There’s not many places in New Jersey where people congregate downtown, but Somerville embraces its focus on community and events.” While one can still get ready-made sandwiches, slaws and sauces to go, the restaurant focuses on grab-and-go meals to enjoy at home. “Like me, many people love experimenting with barbecue, and this is a way to help barbecue enthusiasts work on their craft,” Sacks says. Oink and Moo stocks everything from cooked and raw meats to rubs, sauces, charcoal and even smokers. Its signature to-go offerings include smoked meats, including brisket, pork, ribs and chicken, as well as mouthwatering sandwiches like brisket with a black cherry barbecue sauce, a Carolina pulled pork sandwich and Tex-Mex tacos, along with cornbread and sides, which are made daily. Everything is slow-cooked ahead of time. “When we’re out, we’re out,” Sacks says. “So come early and come hungry.” Place an order at Oink and Moo BBQ at oinkandmoobbq.com.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Bridgewater

CULINARY CREATIONS (CONTINUED)

Oink and Moo Chili Recipe + 2 tbsp oil + 2 onions, diced + 3 poblano peppers, diced + 3/4 cup of Oink and Moo Chili Mix + 1 lb smoked brisket, chopped + 1 lb pulled pork, chopped + 15 oz can of black beans (optional) + 28 oz can of tomato purée + 32 oz container of beef broth

"COME EARLY AND COME HUNGRY.”

Bridgewater Lifestyle | June 2021

Oink and Moo Chili

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Oink and Moo Chili Mix + 1 cup cumin + 1 tbsp granulated garlic + 1 tbsp granulated onion + 1 tbsp salt

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YOUR SUMMER DESTINATION

GOLF

TENNIS

YOUTH ACTIVITIES

AQUATICS

DINING

SOCIAL EVENTS

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Bridgewater Lifestyle | June 2021

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HEAL YOUR LEAKY GUT Gas, bloating, constipation, reflux, headache, chronic muscle and joint pain, ongoing fatigue, depression, anxiety, and/or brain fog can all be symptoms of intestinal permeability or Leaky Gut. Leaky Gut is associated with several chronic diseases such as thyroiditis, rheumatoidarthritis, celiac disease, and Type 1 Diabetes.

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HOPS & VINE

D B E E S E T R I N A T I O N

JEREMY LEES RECALLS HOW HIS OBSESSION WITH BEER BEGAN. A long-time lover of good brews, he caught the beer-making bug in 2005 after being encouraged by friends who were making beer at home. “My first batch of home brew didn’t come out great,” he admits, “but I had so much fun doing it, I kept at it until it did.” As the old adage goes, practice makes perfect, so Lees began a new brew every Friday night. Before long, delicious beer was flowing, and he knew he was onto something. Lees always wanted to have his own business, and his love of craft beer combined with his entrepreneurial spirit led him to create Flounder Brewing Company—which he runs with the help of his brother,

FLOUNDER BREWING COMPANY IN HILLSBOROUGH SERVES UP PERFECT PINTS IN A PASTORAL SETTING ARTICLE LAUREN JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY KENNETTE PRODUCTIONS

Bridgewater Lifestyle | June 2021

Jeremy Lees, Owner, Flounder Brewing Company

Daniel, and cousin, Billy Jordan—in 2010. The name is a nod to the nickname that Lees was given on his 21st birthday by someone who thought he resembled the character Flounder from “Animal House.” Lees explains that his goal was to create good, go-to craft beers that had simple ingredients and delicious flavor. “I started with a blonde ale, which was an homage to my grandfather who was a beekeeper. I wanted to make a beer that actually tasted like honey,” he says. He launched the brewery with Hill Street Honey Blonde Ale, which is still Flounder’s best-selling beer. CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Bridgewater

HOPS & VINE (CONTINUED)

Other favorites include their Murky Brown (an American brown ale), their FRED – The IPA (a gentle, hazy beer with notes of citrus and pine), a Lunatic Belgian golden ale (crisp with a touch of coriander) and their Black Emerald dry Irish stout (with flavors of chocolate and roasted coffee). They also offer seasonal beers, such as Norz Hill Drunkin’ Pumpkin, which is brewed with caramelized pumpkins from Norz Hill Farm in Hillsborough. You can find Flounder brews at 22 West Tap & Grill in Bound Brook, Twenty/20 Taphouse in Somerset, Petrock’s Bar & Grille in Hillsborough, Chimney Rock Inn in Flemington, The Inn at Glen Gardner, Fox & Hound Tavern at the Lebanon Hotel and in ice cream at Gabriel’s Fountain in Bridgewater. Thanks to a “Brew the American Dream” business loan from Samuel Adams, Flounder was able to go from making a one-barrel (31-gallon) batch to three-barrel (100-gallon) batches. After the brewery’s construction and re-launch, the brewhouse will be able to accommodate 15 to 20 barrels of beer. It will be offering hard seltzers and craft sodas, too, so the whole family can enjoy spending a day at the brewery, which is housed in a 250-year-old Dutch barn on a 25-acre farm in Hillsborough. “We want to be seen as a destination where everyone can enjoy a memorable experience based on good beer, great community and a fantastic setting,” Lees says. Flounder Brewing Company 1 Ilene Court, Building 8, Suite 16 Hillsborough, NJ 08844 flounderbrewing.com

BEER AND B BQ PA I RI NGS

Our Hill Street Honey Blonde Ale is the perfect backyard BBQ beer as it pairs incredibly well with steak or burgers from the grill. The lighter flavor profile doesn’t overpower the food and the subtle sweetness in the beer complements the meat well. Our FRED - The IPA pairs with traditional smoked BBQ like ribs or pulled pork. The juicy notes go great with the sweetness in a lot of sauces.

Bridgewater Lifestyle | June 2021

Announcing the newest Academy of Early Education in Bridgewater  Proprietary Curriculum  Physical Fitness  Enrichment Programs  Technology

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CityLifestyle.com/Bridgewater

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Margot’s Medicare Solutions Call for an appointment 908-625-3700

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Medicare Plans from 38

Bridgewater Lifestyle | June 2021

Give Mom & Dad a Vacation of Their Own This Summer! Call Us Today for Respite Specials

(844) 700-8333 Bridgeway Bridgewater Rated #1 Nursing Home in New Jersey

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OUR TOWN

YOU KNOW MY COUSIN

ARTICLE PATTI ZIELINSKI

A LARGE, MULTIGENERATIONAL FAMILY BLENDS TRADITION AND VALUES WITH LOVE AND MEMORIES

Vince Cirianni Fifth-Generation Bridgewater-

R aritan Resident

WHAT IS YOUR FAMILY’S IMMIGRATION STORY? Both sets of my grandparents emigrated from towns in the

father’s side, there are four generations of 59 people: his two parents, seven children, 17 grandchildren and 33 great-grandchildren.

Calabria area of Southern Italy and settled in Raritan in the late 1950s. The families were close. My grandfathers served in both World Wars and decided to move their families to the United States for more opportunities and a better life.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR IMMEDIATE FAMILY AND LIFE. I met my wife, Marisa, who was in the last graduating class of 1991 at Bridgewater-Raritan High School West, when she was a senior

My maternal grandfather, Vincenzo Ruffa, who I was named after,

through my fourth-generation cousin and my sister, Rose Cirianni

and grandmother, Domenica, met at age 5 in Italy, married and had six

(Fischer), who were her friends. We have three children: Luke (17),

children before moving to Raritan to join his brother, Domenico, who

Vincenzo (15) and Olivia (13), who attend the Bridgewater schools.

had already moved here in the 1950s. Vincenzo was married more than 60 years, only spoke Italian and worked doing manual labor. From the 1960s until my grandfather’s death in 2008, Raritan was predominantly populated by people from my parents’ Italian hometowns

I have been in the financial services industry for 25 years and work as a partner with the Preferred Client Group. When I’m not working, I have a passion for philanthropy. For example, I serve on the Raritan Valley Community College Foundation Board.

of San Gregorio and Sant’Onofrio. Each generation of families stayed close by, some living just blocks from each other. My parents still live in Raritan, near Frelinghuysen Park, along with many other family members.

DISCUSS YOUR FAMILY’S LOVE OF SOCCER. Soccer is in our blood. In 1972, my father, uncle and other Italian immigrant fathers formed the Bridgewater-Raritan Soccer Club,

HOW BIG IS YOUR EXTENDED FAMILY TODAY?

which is now called the Bridgewater Soccer Academy (BSA). I started

Combined, the family had more than 150 people, including in-laws.

playing soccer at age 5 and played for 40 years. I played every day

Most children have stayed in the area. In the Ruffa family, my moth-

on a grass field in the park with many other children. Soccer molded

er’s side, there are five generations of 109 people: her two parents, six

us through motivation, determination and teamwork. I played in club,

children, 21 grandchildren, 58 great-grandchildren and 22 great-great

high school, college and semi-pro leagues, like many of my cousins,

grandchildren with three more on the way. In the Cirianni family, my

while coaching at the BSA for 10 years. My sons were in the program and my daughter still plays in the BSA today.

Bridgewater Lifestyle | June 2021

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CityLifestyle.com/Bridgewater

Kids who spend their summer with Mathnasium sure stand out in a crowd. Summer is the ideal time to do something that will give your child a huge advantage when school resumes in the fall: Accelerate their math skills with Mathnasium. Mathnasium’s personalized Learning Plans are proven to improve grades and help kids catch up and get ahead in math. With live face-to-face instruction, either in-center or online. And don’t worry — your child will still enjoy their summer. Because we make learning math fun. Ask about a Free Level Assessment . M at hnasium of Bridgew at er (732) 764-M ATH (6284) mat hnasium.com/ bridgew at er 1918 Washingt on Valley Rd #5, M art insville NJ 08836

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Bridgewater Lifestyle | June 2021

Let our hard working team work hard for you.

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DIVORCE AND FAMILY LAWYERS 908-645-1000 LawLawFirm.com Watchung | Red Bank The designations by the organizations referenced in this advertisement were issued to Jeralyn Lawrence, Esq. The methodologies for these selections can be found at 2021 U.S. News Best Law Firms® (applicable to Lawrence Law, LLC), 2021 Best Lawyers® for Lawyer of the Year in Family Law Mediation, 2020 Super Lawyers® Top 50 Women, and Top 100 Lawyers, New Jersey, 2020 New Jersey’s Best Lawyers for Families, and Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent®. No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court of New Jersey. • Jeralyn L. Lawrence, Esq., Amy Z. Shimalla, Esq. and Amy Wechsler, Esq. are certiﬁed by the New Jersey Supreme Court in Matrimonial Law.

CityLifestyle.com/Bridgewater

FOOD & WINE

LOCAL E AT S A ND T RE AT S YOUR GUIDE TO SOME OF THE TASTIEST FARE IN SOMERSET COUNTY

Bridgewater Lifestyle | June 2021

Local Eats

1. MARTINSVILLE TAVERN The

Martinsville

Tavern

welcomes

and Treats

guests to enjoy its modern American/ European cuisine, warm hospitality and unparalleled service. With live music, entertainment and outdoor seating, it's a great atmosphere to enjoy with friends and family. martinsvilletavern.com 2. PLAYA BOWLS Playa Bowls offers superfruit bowls, juices, smoothies, coffee and more! Inspired by varieties of superfruit bowls encountered

Martinsville Tavern

Playa Bowls

1979 WASHINGTON VALLEY RD MARTINSVILLE (732) 563-1717 MARTINSVILLETAVERN.COM

135 W MAIN ST SOMERVILLE (908) 722-1936 PLAYABOWLS.COM

De Martino

Stateside

Latin Restaurant

Tap + Tavern

9 DAVENPORT ST SOMERVILLE (908) 722-8602 DEMARTINOLATIN.COM

149 PIERCE ST SOMERSET (732) 356-3334 STATESIDETAPANDTAVERN.COM

on surf trips, founders Abby Taylor and Rob Giuliani set out to bring those flavors home to give New Jersey a slice of summer anytime. Playa Bowls has flourished into 105-plus locations, thousands of employees and a mission to lead communities in healthy, sustainable living. playabowls.com 3. DE MARTINO LATIN RESTAURANT De Martino's menu pays homage to Latin cuisine and marries traditional flavors with New World techniques. High quality, fresh and local ingredients are used, enhancing the flavor profiles of each dish. It has been named a Top 30, best new restaurant by New Jersey Monthly. martinoscuba.com 4. STATESIDE TAP + TAVERN Stateside Tap + Tavern was born out of an endless devotion to excellent service and delicious food, and fortified with encapsulating compassion to bring people together. Come and enjoy their welcoming atmosphere, delicious food and friendly service. They look forward to seeing you!

Lobster Alley 18 W SOMERSET ST RARITAN (908) 566-6414 LOBSTERALLEY.COM

statesidetapandtavern.com 5. LOBSTER ALLEY When was the last time you had a homemade, French-baked brioche lobster roll? Enjoy some of your shore favorites all year round! Lobster Alley brings you Fresh Maine Lobster Rolls. Enjoy it your favorite way: Lobster Alley provides both hot and cold fare, featuring shrimp rolls, sausage and peppers, sides and treats. lobsteralley.com CityLifestyle.com/Bridgewater

Dr. Or, MD is a board-certified OB/GYN, fellowship trained in advanced pelvic surgery, focusing on laparoscopic and robotic surgery for the management of endometriosis, fibroids, pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding and more. She graduated from the residency in the prestigious Lenox Hill Hospital in Manhattan, to which she returned after her fellowship training and functioned as the Director of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery after obtaining the Certificate of Excellence in Minimally Invasive Gynecology for the department. She is deeply passionate about women’s health in all ages and treats a full range of women’s health issues. She delivers personalized, one on one care with attention to your specific needs. In addition to Gynecological care, she offers cosmetic services to help you feel confident, revitalized and beautiful inside and out. In addition to gynecological care, the practice offers Botox, fillers, and Coolsculpting. Please call for a free cosmetic consultation. We are currently offering 25% off Botox and Fillers and 50% off on the second Coolsculpt site.

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Bridgewater Lifestyle | June 2021

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GIVING BACK

Youth Attend a Personal Finance Class

Giving Young ADULTS A Chance VISIONS & PATHWAYS NURTURES YOUNG ADULTS FACING DIFFICULT SITUATIONS

FOR MOST TEENAGERS, TURNING 18 IS A JOYFUL RITE OF PASSAGE. This was not the case for Ashley. The day before she turned 18, her parents informed her that she could no longer live with them. She packed up and left, not knowing where to go or what to expect. With no money and no other adult support, Ashley had 24 hours to find a place to live. The choices were few and intimidating—until she came across Visions & Pathways in Bridgewater, which meets the needs of abused and neglected youth. She contacted its Street Smart Outreach counselors to ask for help. The counselors are available 24/7 to provide a safe haven to youth like Ashley. She interviewed for a spot in Passages, a supervised transitional-living housing program, and moved in on her birthday. Founded in 1970, Visions & Pathways has sought out and helped more than 11,000 abused, neglected, homeless, missing and at-risk youth. Its programs are designed to build self-esteem and teach young people the skills necessary to thrive. First, the staff meets their basic needs Ashley, Once on the Verge of Being Homeless at 18, Is Now a Registered Nurse

like food and safe housing, then they offer counseling, education assistance, life skills training, arts and recreation, career and employment counseling, mentoring programs, scholarships and financial literacy instruction.

ARTICLE JILL SCOTT 48

Bridgewater Lifestyle | June 2021

“A lways ma ke goa ls for you rsel f and never let anyone tel l you can’t do someth i ng. You can do any th i ng you put you r m i nd to!” —Ash ley

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Bridgewater

GIVING BACK (CONTINUED)

The agency’s seven residential centers can house 46 residents. The continuum of housing and care options help young people attain greater levels of independence as they move through the programs. The centers include: Brahma House, a residential crisis intervention program and emergency shelter; Passages, My Place and Whitney House, which are residential transitional-living programs that group residents by age and need; Loving Care Home, which provides a safe place for young women; and the Bridge and Village Houses where older residents pay nominal rent and continue to participate in support programs as they move toward complete independence. While the organization is based in Bridgewater, it offers services to at-risk youth from anywhere in the state. In addition to housing, Visions & Pathways provides a diverse range of programs, including the Pathways independent living skills educational program, the Transitional Learning Center for in-house instruction, an arts and recreation program and an aftercare program, which offers youth continued support and stability when they leave a Visions & Pathways residence. Its recreational activities foster social skills. For example, this winter, 20 residents went to see the Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights. The agency serves young adults of all cultures, religions and backgrounds. Its objective is to develop a trusting relationship and offer non-judgmental and consistent support. Residents are expected to follow house rules and continue productive lives by attending school or working. “Our programs help youth see their potential for success and guide them along the often-difficult path of becoming a thriving adult,” says David Walker, CEO and executive director. “Ultimately, our programs help end the cycle of dependency.” The agency has exciting future plans. Recognizing that science, technology, engineering and mathematics are an important knowledge base for today’s youth, it is building a technology center, which is funded by The Arman Roy Foundation, to nurture residents’ interest in science and math. It also has launched a capital campaign to build additional housing in Bridgewater to support clients who are further along in their journey to complete independence. 50

Bridgewater Lifestyle | June 2021

Brahma House

Volunteers are an essential part of the community. They staff the Street Smart Outreach as well as help with event planning, fundraising, age-based group mentoring programs, arranging and chaperoning recreational outings, and helping the organization gain exposure in the community. Ashley is representative of Visions & Pathways’ mission for its residents. While she came to the program under difficult circumstances, she had a goal and the drive to succeed. Envisioning a bright future, she took advantage of the programs and participated in counseling sessions and life skills training so she could become self-sufficient. Always a motivated student, Ashley focused on her education, completing high school and then enrolling in the nursing program at Raritan Valley Community College. She transitioned through the different housing programs to the Village House independent living program. The staff assisted Ashley with scheduling a driver’s education course and helped her obtain her driver’s license—a pivotal step in her burgeoning independence. In May 2020, Ashley graduated with an Associate in Applied Science in Nursing degree. After passing the Registered Nurses exam in August, she began working in the Hunterdon Healthcare System. Life for Ashley has come full-circle: She now cares for the community that took care of her. Ashley acknowledges that becoming a nurse during a pandemic has been interesting. “I chose nursing because I love helping people and seeing the impact I can make on someone’s life on a daily basis,” she says. “As a new nurse since August 2020, I have learned a lot. I love my job!” As someone who has seen dark times and made it through, Ashley’s advice to others who may be facing similar challenges is this: “Always make goals for yourself and never let anyone tell you can’t do something. You can do anything you put your mind to!” Learn more about Visions & Pathways and the ways My Place

you can help at visionsandpathways.com.

CityLifestyle.com/Bridgewater

REALTY REPORT NEIGHBORHOOD

ORIGINAL PRICE

BRIDGEWATER REALTY REPORT

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/ORIG

DOM

BDRMS

BATHS

979 Rosemary Road

$475,000

$493,000

104%

125

2.1

706 Donald Drive South

$499,000

$535,000

107%

3.1

1381 Mallard Drive

$499,900

$550,000

110%

2.1

1770 Cedarcrest Road

$569,000

$548,000

96%

146

1155 Crim Road

$595,000

$600,000

101%

2.1

3 Clark Court

$599,000

$625,000

104%

2.1

412 Vanderveer Road

$610,000

$630,007

103%

2.1

97 Catherine Lane

$610,000

$671,000

110%

2.1

1007 Rector Road

$610,000

$637,500

105%

2.1

14 Muirfield Lane

$625,000

$675,000

108%

2.1

1751 West Circle Drive

$625,000

100%

1285 Colonial Way

$629,000

100%

279 Farmer Road

$649,990

$610,000

94%

2.1

21 Craft Farm Drive

$669,000

$701,000

105%

2.1

17 Stapleton Court

$669,000

$645,000

96%

2.1

3 Sally Court

$674,900

$710,000

105%

2.1

461 Bayberry Road

$679,000

$725,000

107%

2.1

524 Foothill Road

$685,000

$687,500

100%

189

3.1

986 Severin Drive

$725,000

$745,000

103%

2.1

960 South Shore Drive

$778,000

$770,000

99%

3.1

858 Papen Road

$795,000

$851,000

107%

2.2

2128 Washington Valley Road

$949,000

$945,000

100%

3.1

6 Rose Lane

$1,099,000

$1,055,000

96%

5.1

787 Petron Place

$1,100,000

$1,045,000

95%

880 Brown Road

$1,229,000

$1,180,000

96%

3.1

This representation is based in whole or in part on data supplied by the Garden State Multiple Listing Service (GSMLS), LLC which does not guarantee nor is any way responsible for its accuracy. Data provided by the GSMLS, LLC may not reflect all real estate activity in the market. This data is a sampling of sales from 3/26/2021 – 4/23/2021. DOM is Days on Market.

(908)672-2055

Ready to sell? We have qualified buyers! Contact the #1 Real Estate Team in Bridgewater & Somerset County!

222 Mt Airy Road, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920 Office: 908-766-0085 Each Keller Williams Office is independently owned & operated.

Michele Klug Sales Associate ® Cell Phone: 908-672-2055 Office: 908-766-0085 michele@micheleklug.com www.micheleklug.com CityLifestyle.com/Bridgewater

JUNE

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

SOMERVILLE CRUISE NIGHTS

SHIMON AND SARA BIRNBAUM JCC GOLF & TENNIS OUTING

Main St., Somerville

For 30 years, Downtown Somerville has

Raritan Valley Country Club,

Shore’s most-loved bands, which has performed at Carnegie Hall, PNC Arts Center and on MTV. mayoarts.org

hosted the largest cruise night on the

747 NJ-28, Bridgewater

East Coast. Every Friday through Labor

The Shimon and Sara Birnbaum Jewish

Day weekend, stroll Main Street and

Community Center holds its 20th Annual

view the coolest classic cars around.

Golf and Tennis Outing to benefit the

25 Bartley Rd., Long Valley

downtownsomerville.com/events

JCC Sustainability Fund. ssbjcc.org

Celebrate Father's Day on the farm.

FATHER'S DAY BERRIES AND BREWS Ort Farms,

Enjoy hayrides, pony rides, cow train

rides, pick-your-own strawberries and

SPRING SOLO ART EXHIBITIONS

ONLINE “SUPERHEROES AND VILLIANS” TRIVIA NIGHT

delicious eats and treats and a beer

The Center for Contemporary Art,

State Theatre New Jersey, Online

2020 Burnt Mills Rd., Bedminster

The

Art

Test your knowledge of the Marvel

hosts four solo exhibitions through

Center

for

Contemporary

and DC universes with 50 questions.

June 5: Shalya Marsh: Fragments pres-

“Superheroes and Villains Trivia” cov-

ents the work of ceramic artist Shalya

ers movies, comics, secret identities,

Marsh; Maxwell

Mustardo:

live music. An admission fee will apply. Sip 'n Swirl and Dellano's will serve up vendor will pour your favorite brews! http://facebook.com/events

23 ADULT MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID TRAINING

Deform

famous lines, actors and actresses, and

Follows Defunction presents pieces by

more. The first-place winner gets a $150

ceramic artist Maxwell Mustardo; Andrew

State Theatre gift certificate and a State

Werth: Organic Abstractions features

Theatre swag bag. The second-place

Hospital, Online

paintings by Andrew Werth; and Michael

winner gets a swag bag. Proceeds

Robert

Wolf: Crossings is an installation by sculp-

support the State Theatre’s Community

Hospital

tor Michael Wolf. ccabedminster.org

Engagement programs. stnj.org

offers an online course on how to iden-

Robert Wood Johnson University

Wood

Johnson

University

and

EmPoWER

Somerset

tify, understand and respond to signs of

mental illness and substance use disor-

ANDY GROSS: COMEDIAN, MAGICIAN, VENTRILOQUIST

WATER-SOLUBLE SCREEN MONOTYPES WITH MIKE STARK

non-crisis situations. rwjbh.org/events

10 Hamilton St, Bound Brook

440 River Road, Branchburg

Andy Gross is a multi-talented enter-

Explore the non-toxic technique of using

tainer who combines stand-up comedy,

water-soluble materials to create unique

magic and ventriloquism. Gross, whose

screen-printed monotypes at Front Line

stand-up adlibs are compared to Don

Arts. No experience is necessary and

1 Vogt Dr., Bridgewater

Rickles and Robin Williams, is an inter-

beginners are welcome. frontlinearts.org

Families with babies through preschool-

Brook Arts Center,

Front Line Arts,

year. brookarts.org

17 THE NERDS IN CONCERT

Bridgewater Lifestyle | June 2021

on how to help people in both crisis and

25 BIG TIME STORY TIME

Somerset County Library,

ers can enjoy 30 minutes of singing,

net sensation with over 100 million views and more than 150 sold-out shows a

ders. It also offers a five-step action plan

dancing and, of course, books on the library lawn. sclsnj.libnet.info/events

Fosterfields Living Historical Farm,

Would you like to get in touch with us?

73 Kahdena Rd., Morris Township

We would love to hear from you! Contact

The Mayo Performing Arts Center’s

us at CityLifestyle.com/Bridgewater

Trend Motors Drive-In Concert Series

using the Get In Touch link and let us

features The Nerds, one of the Jersey

know what you think.