Bridgewater, NJ August 2026

ENTERTAINMENT

COPPER, CITY LIFESTYLE’S TOP DOGGY MODEL, BRINGS BIG PERSONALITY AND PLAYFUL MISCHIEF TO BRIDGEWATER.

BLAST OFF INTO SCREEN-FREE FAMILY FUN AT SPACE PLAY ACADEMY!

The Sunday of Summer

Oh, Bridgewater, welcome to August—the Sunday of summer. I heard years ago that summer is like a weekend: June is Friday night, July is Saturday and August is Sunday. It has stayed with me ever since. The Halloween decorations that somehow appeared at Costco back in June may be trying to rush us along, but I am happily resisting. There are still dips in the pool, days down the shore, backyard barbecues, ice cream runs and sunny afternoons to enjoy.

This Kids + Pets Issue also marks seven years since our first Bridgewater City Lifestyle issue. Back then, my girls were 8, 6 and 2. Now, somehow, I have a high schooler, an eighth grader and an almost 10-year-old. It is funny how seven years can feel both like a lifetime and about five minutes, especially when you measure them in school years, sports schedules and growing kids.

Of course, a Kids + Pets Issue needs a cover star with personality to spare, and Copper Mosley Billman delivered. Turn to page 12 to meet Bridgewater’s Next Top Doggy Model and see why his charm won over fans.

After meeting our top dog, turn to page 34 for “Catcetera Brings Cats and Community,” where Raritan’s new cat lounge is connecting adoptable cats with families, friendships and plenty of purrs.

And this issue is not only for the four-legged family members. It is also a celebration of the kids, parents and local families who bring so much heart to Bridgewater. On page 30, you’ll find “Raised Between Curls and Confidence,” a heartfelt story about Jessa Colon, the Hairitage Hair Lounge owner raising four daughters inside the business and community she built.

Then head to page 24 for “Space Play Academy Builds Connection,” where local families are finding play, learning and community inside a growing indoor academy designed with kids and parents in mind.

We couldn’t let a Kids + Pets Issue pass without celebrating the local favorites families rely on most. Turn to page 28 for “Readers’ Choice: Kids + Pets Edition,” featuring Bridgewater businesses chosen by readers, from classrooms and play spaces to grooming tables and exam rooms. Follow @bridgewater_somerset_hills for future months’ categories.

Here’s to the Sunday of summer, the people and pets we love, and these last long, sunny days.

TIFFANY &

@BRIDGEWATER_SOMERSET_HILLS

August 2026

PUBLISHER

Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@citylifestyle.com

CO-PUBLISHER

Tiffany Slowinski | tiffany.slowinski@citylifestyle.com

SALES DIRECTOR

Emily Labdon | emily.labdon@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Brooke Boyer | brooke.boyer@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Rose Balisi | rose.balisi@citylifestyle.com

Jessie Fernandez | jessie.fernandez@citylifestyle.com

INTERNS

Riley Burns | riley.burns@citylifestyle.com

Lindsey Venezia

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Patti Zielinski, Tater Bear Treats, David Burke

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jillian Spencer Photography, Wesley Cheringal, My Havana Photography, Michael J. Lago Creative Co., Tater Bear Treats, David Burke Hospitality Management

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

Proverbs 3:5-6

2026

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN AUGUST

city scene

1—7: Prom season arrived in style as Bridgewater-Raritan High School students celebrated unforgettable memories with friends in stunning gowns and sharp suits.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

business monthly

Student Artist Earns National Honor

Lucia Bolle of Bridgewater-Raritan High School has been named the winner of a prestigious National Art Education Association award, recognizing her exceptional talent and dedication to the arts. The honor places her among top student artists nationwide and highlights the strength of Bridgewater-Raritan’s visual arts program.

BRRSD Music Department Earns National Honor for Ninth Straight Year

For the ninth straight year, the Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District Music Department received the Best Communities for Music Education award from the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM). The program, now in its 27th year, recognizes districts demonstrating strong commitment to music education and access for K-12 students. In 2026, more than 1,000 districts nationwide were honored for outstanding achievement in music education.

Continuum Innovation Campus Launches in Bridgewater

Bridgewater Township is now home to Continuum, a 60-acre innovation campus designed to attract life sciences, technology, and advanced manufacturing companies. The project aims to create a collaborative ecosystem for research, development, and commercialization while supporting regional economic growth. Developers said the campus will blend office, lab, and flexible workspace to meet evolving industry needs and position Bridgewater as a growing hub for innovation in New Jersey.

Meet Copper: Bridgewater’s Next Top Doggy Model

A mischievous dachshund with endless energy, cuddles and charm stealing hearts across Bridgewater.

ARTICLE BY BROOKE BOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MY HAVANA PHOTOGRAPHY

In May, dogs from across New Jersey gathered for City Lifestyle’s Next Top Doggy Model casting call, where canine contestants competed for the chance to represent their hometown on the cover.

A key partner in the event was K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel Hillsborough, known for luxury dog boarding and daycare, cage-free accommodations and a focus on safe, clean and enriching experiences for pets. K9 Resorts helped make the casting call a memorable day for families and their dogs.

Animal Alliance also joined the event, bringing its mission of helping animals in need to a day centered around community and canine connection. The nonprofit organization rescues, shelters and supports dogs and cats while helping pets find adoptive homes.

Tater Bear Treats added another special touch with small-batch dog treats made in New Jersey, giving the four-legged contestants one more reason to wag their tails.

From playful puppies to seasoned companions, the competition showcased dogs of every breed, size and personality imaginable. While every contestant brought something special to the event, one pup stood out among the Bridgewater entries thanks to his unforgettable charm and his ability to make everyone around him smile.

For Bridgewater residents, that dog is Copper Mosley Billman, a beloved local pup who calls the township home.

Better known as Copper and affectionately called PeeWee or Bean, this 10-month-old long-haired miniature dachshund has officially earned the title of Bridgewater’s Next Top Doggy Model. And while he may be small in stature, Copper more than makes up for it in personality.

Copper is especially beloved by 13-year-old Shelby, who saved her money to purchase what she proudly calls her “dream dog.” While Copper is cherished by the entire family, his bond with Shelby is something special.

From the moment he wakes up, Copper is on the move. Shelby’s mother, Caitlin Billman, describes him as spunky, mischievous and playful—the kind of dog who doesn’t just observe life in a household, but fully participates in it.

“Copper just has to be where everyone else is,” Billman says. “If something is happening, he wants to be part of it. He doesn’t like to miss a thing.”

“

That constant curiosity has made him a source of endless entertainment. Copper turns ordinary moments into small adventures, whether he’s racing through the house, joining in on family activities or looking for someone to snuggle.

“He just wants to be close to us, if you sit down, he’s right there with you. He loves being held, snuggled, or tucked in beside someone. He’s happiest when he’s close.”

—Caitlin Billman

Copper is also deeply affectionate. Sweet, adorable and undeniably cuddly, he sticks close to the people he loves. Copper can often be found curled up beside whoever happens to sit down first, as if he’s been waiting for that exact moment all day.

“He just wants to be close to us,” she says. “If you sit down, he’s right there with you. He loves being held, snuggled or tucked in beside someone. He’s happiest when he’s close.”

Copper’s favorite pastime is burrowing. Every treat or bone he receives seems destined for a secret hiding place, carefully tucked away for later.

“We’ll find them in the couch, under pillows, all over the place,” Billman says with a laugh. “It becomes a little treasure hunt around the house.”

Despite his playful mischief, Copper is incredibly social. He adores the family’s other dogs and thrives in the company of animals. Being part of a pack is important to him, and he is rarely seen without at least one companion nearby.

But what makes Copper’s story especially meaningful is that behind his playful personality is a dog who has already overcome more than most realize. Copper was born with cataracts, with one eye more affected than the other. While this could have limited his life, it has not slowed him down.

“He sees just fine for now, and it doesn’t stop him from doing anything,” Billman says. “He keeps up with everyone, runs around the house, gets zoomies and even barks at our cat like any other puppy would.”

That fearless attitude shows up most during his bursts of energy. Copper’s zoomies are legendary, turning hallways into racetracks and living rooms into playgrounds.

For Shelby and her family, Copper is entertainment, comfort, chaos and companionship all in one small, wiggly package. What began as Shelby’s dream dog has become a beloved member of the entire household.

Copper, Bridgewater’s Next Top Doggy Model, brings joy, personality and plenty of laughs—plus the occasional missing treat found under a couch cushion.

Small in size but enormous in spirit, Copper Mosley Billman is proof that the best things often come in the most mischievous packages.

The casting call was made possible with support from local pet-focused partners who helped create a welcoming day for dogs, families and the community.

EVENT PARTNERS:

K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel Hillsborough 63 Route 206, Suite 100 Hillsborough, NJ 08844 k9resorts.com/hillsborough

Animal Alliance animalalliancenj.org

Tater Bear Treats Order online: @tater.bear.treats on Facebook and Instagram.

THE KIDS

Chef David Burke shares a playful cake pop recipe inspired by family.

DO IT MADE ME

BY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID

HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT

This month’s kids and pets theme got me thinking about the times my kids have impacted my culinary creativity, including one rainy day at home with my boys that unexpectedly inspired one of my most playful desserts: cake pops.

It was back in the early ’90s. My two little boys and I were stuck at home due to torrential rain. When I started thinking about what to feed them, I realized I only had cream cheese and smoked salmon in the refrigerator. “Hey, I’m a chef. I don’t eat at home all that much.”

I thought I was up the proverbial creek until I remembered I had recently acquired a lollipop mold with sticks from a yard sale. Knowing my boys were suckers for lollipops, I figured I could trick them into eating the salmon and cream cheese if they were on a stick.

So, I chopped up the salmon, combined it with the cream cheese, pressed the mixture into the rounds of the mold and stuck a stick in each one. After a brief stint in the freezer to set up, I presented the salmon and cream cheese lollipops to the boys.

They didn’t bite, literally. But I did. And I thought the idea was delicious, fun to eat, and worth revisiting in a sweeter form.

That rainy-day experiment eventually led me to create a cake pop. Presented on a metal “tree” in a variety of flavors, they have remained a best-selling dessert. They can be much easier to make than you might think—see the recipe below—and are sure to add a wow factor to any occasion.

This version uses prepared elements, making it easy enough to become a staple of your own repertoire.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 box yellow cake mix

• 1 cup water

• 3 large eggs

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• 1 can prepared chocolate frosting

• 18 lollipop sticks

• 1 bag chocolate candy melts

• 1 tube decorating icing

• 1 tablespoon multicolored candy sprinkles, crumbled Heath bar or both

ABOUT CHEF DAVID BURKE:

Brooklyn-born chef and restaurateur David Burke, who was raised and continues to live in New Jersey, is known for playful, precision-driven modern American cooking and elevated comfort classics. His restaurants span New Jersey and beyond, including Red Horse by David Burke at The Bernards Inn and The Station Tavern in nearby Bernardsville.

To learn more, explore his restaurants, or get in touch, visit  chefdavidburke.com and follow his culinary adventures on Instagram @chefdavidburke.

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish while the oven is heating.

2. With a mixer on low speed, beat cake mix, water, oil and eggs in a bowl for 30 seconds. Increase speed to medium and beat for 2 minutes more.

3. Pour batter into the greased baking dish. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 28 to 33 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool for at least one hour.

4. Crumble cooled cake into a large bowl. Stir in frosting until mixture is sticky and starts to come together, but is not smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

5. Roll cake mixture into 18 1½-inch balls and place on a baking sheet.

6. Place ¼ cup candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on high until melted, about 20 seconds.

7. Push a lollipop stick halfway into each ball. Gently dip balls into the melted chocolate to coat. Then place upright in a foam block.

8. While coating is wet, decorate the cake pops with candy sprinkles, Heath bar crumbles or both.

Connection, City Lifestyle Style

Fogo de Chão in Bridgewater was buzzing as City Lifestyle welcomed more than 150 guests for a high-energy evening of community, conversation and celebration.

The private event brought together local business owners, community leaders, residents and friends old and new for a night that felt less like traditional networking and more like the kind of party everyone was glad they didn’t miss. With top-shelf cocktails, delicious appetizers and a room full of familiar faces and fresh introductions, the energy was immediate.

“This was exactly the kind of night we love creating,” Publisher Tiffany Slowinski says. “It was fun, lively and full of connection. Seeing so many local businesses and residents come together in one room was incredible.”

Throughout the evening, guests mixed and mingled while exploring vendor tables from Bellezza Si Esthetics, Glow from Within Tea, Dickens Jewelers, Corbo Jewelers, Simply Sweets by Lauren and Apollo Fuel Jerky. Vendors shared samples, special offers and plenty of conversation, giving guests a chance to discover new favorites while supporting local businesses.

The private wine room added another memorable moment, where Julianna Miller Events designed a branded photo backdrop experience and Michael Lago Creative captured professional photos. HCMNJ documented the evening on video, while Angelone’s Florist brought in beautiful floral details that elevated the space.

And because every great party needs a little surprise, magician Will Fern entertained guests throughout the night with close-up magic and interactive moments that kept people laughing, guessing and leaning in for more.

Guests also enjoyed a raffle drawing featuring curated giveaway baskets from sponsors and participating vendors, adding another layer of excitement to an already lively evening.

More than anything, the night captured what City Lifestyle does best: bring people together in a way that feels personal, polished and genuinely fun. It was a celebration of local connection, strong partnerships and the community that continues to grow around City Lifestyle.

Want to get in on the fun? Email Publisher Tiffany Slowinski at tiffany.slowinski@citylifestyle.com to learn more about upcoming events, local stories and partnership opportunities.

City Lifestyle brought local businesses, neighbors and friends together for one unforgettable night.

ARTICLE BY BROOKE BOYER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

MICHAEL J. LAGO CREATIVE CO.

ARTICLE BY BROOKE BOYER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JILLIAN SPENCER

PHOTOGRAPHY

Families find play, learning and community inside Hillsborough’s growing indoor academy.

Space Play

Academy

When Luis Pazmiño moved from Brooklyn to New Jersey with his wife and children, he quickly noticed something was missing.

As a young parent, Pazmiño was looking for a place where his kids could move, play and socialize, especially on cold, rainy or too-hot days. But the options felt limited, and most required a drive.

“Everything we wanted to do was at least 30 minutes away,” Pazmiño says. “Especially during winter or bad weather, it became difficult. We just wanted somewhere local where kids could move, socialize and have fun.”

That need became the starting point for Space Play Academy in Hillsborough, an indoor play space designed for young children and the grown-ups who love them.

The timing made the idea feel even more important. Like many families, Pazmiño saw how COVID-19 changed the way children learned, played and connected. His oldest daughter missed important early school experiences because of virtual learning, and he saw how much children and parents were craving connection again.

“There’s only so much kids can get from a screen,” he says. “After COVID, families were craving social interaction again.”

At Space Play Academy, children can climb, slide, imagine, build and explore in a colorful, high-energy environment filled with obstacle courses, pretend-play stations and climbing structures. But unlike larger play centers, Pazmiño intentionally designed the academy to feel manageable, clean and community-focused.

“We wanted something that was not overcrowded, always clean and flexible for families,” he says. “A lot of the things we didn’t like as parents at other places, we decided to do differently.”

That parent-first perspective shapes nearly every detail. The facility limits attendance to about 40 children and 40 adults at a time, creating a more relaxed environment. Families are allowed to bring outside snacks, especially for children with allergies or dietary restrictions, and the team prioritizes nightly cleaning routines.

Before committing to the business, Pazmiño turned directly to local parents for feedback. He posted in community Facebook groups asking what families wanted in a toddler-friendly indoor play space. The response surprised him.

Within a week, more than 500 families had completed surveys, commented on ideas and shared suggestions.

“I realized very quickly this wasn’t just something my family wanted,” he says. “There was a real need.”

Many of those families helped shape the final design. Parents voted on attractions and play concepts, influencing everything from the fire station pretend-play area to dress-up stations. That collaborative approach continues today, with customer feedback helping guide programming ideas and future additions.

While Space Play Academy is centered around fun, Pazmiño also sees it as a place for development. Obstacle courses help children practice balance, climbing and motor skills. Interactive cause-and-effect installations encourage curiosity and problem-solving. Foam building pieces invite children to construct towers and structures through open-ended play.

“There’s a lot more happening than just entertainment,” Pazmiño says. “Kids are learning while they play.”

One of the most distinctive parts of the academy is the way it invites parents into the experience. Instead of watching from a distance, adults are encouraged to play alongside their children. Parents slide into ball pits, navigate obstacle courses and ride tricycles with younger children seated behind them.

“You see parents becoming kids again,” he says. “That bonding experience is a huge part of what makes the space special.”

Safety remains central to the design. Much of the 4,000-square-foot play area is covered in padded foam flooring to help reduce injuries. Staff members supervise play zones and guide families on safety rules, particularly around accessories that could create hazards.

“We want kids to have freedom to explore,” Pazmiño says, “but we also want parents to feel confident that the environment is safe.”

Although Space Play Academy is still in its first year of operation, Pazmiño is already thinking about what comes next. His long-term goal is to see the space grow into a community hub centered around

education and enrichment, with possible future offerings such as STEM workshops, tutoring programs, literacy initiatives, art classes and partnerships with local businesses and nonprofits.

As an engineer with a background in tech, he is especially excited about hands-on science programming, including LEGO programming, chemistry projects and other learning experiences that can grow with children over time.

“The idea is for this to become more than a playground,” he says. “We want it to grow with families.”

For now, families are already finding their way in. Birthday parties are booking months in advance, regular visitors are returning and the academy has quickly become a gathering place for parents and children alike.

At its heart, Pazmiño says Space Play Academy is built around a simple idea: families need places where they can be together.

“We built the kind of place we wished we had for our own kids,” he says.

SPACE PLAY ACADEMY

315 Roycefield Road, Suite 123, Hillsborough, NJ 08844

spaceplayacademy.com

Readers Choice

KIDS + PETS EDITION —AUGUST 2026

From playgrounds and classrooms to grooming tables and exam rooms, kids and pets keep family life full of energy, laughter and love.

This month’s Readers’ Choice: Kids + Pets Edition celebrates the Bridgewater businesses that local families count on to care for, teach, support and spoil the youngest members of the household—whether they have two legs or four.

Chosen entirely by reader votes, this year’s winners represent the trusted places, professionals and services that make everyday family life a little easier, happier and more connected. We’re proud to announce the August 2026 Readers’ Choice winners for Bridgewater.

SUPPORTING FAMILIES, ONE MILESTONE AT A TIME

Bridgewater Readers’ Choice winners highlight the businesses that help children and pets thrive. From education and enrichment to veterinary care and play, these trusted professionals support families through every stage of growth and development.

Follow us for upcoming categories and voting at @Bridgewater_Somerset_Hills.

ARTICLE BY BRIDGEWATER CITY LIFESTYLE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MY HAVANA PHOTOGRAPHY

BEST DOGGY DAYCARE

K9 Resorts – Hillsborough

Pet owners praised the attentive staff, clean facilities and resort-style experience that gives dogs a safe and enjoyable place to spend the day.

k9resorts.com/hillsborough/ | (908) 639-2334

BEST VETERINARY PRACTICE

Bridgewater Veterinary Hospital

Compassionate care and knowledgeable medical expertise helped Bridgewater Veterinary Hospital earn the confidence of local pet families.

bridgewatervet.com | (908) 704-6700

BEST PRESCHOOL/DAYCARE

Cedar Hill Preparatory School

Families highlighted the school’s nurturing environment and strong academic foundation designed to support childhood development.

cedarhillprep.com | (732) 356-5400

BEST TUTORING CENTER

Huntington Learning Center Bridgewater

Personalized instruction and measurable academic support made Huntington Learning Center a standout among local voters.

huntingtonhelps.com/center/bridgewater | (908) 725-3900

BEST PLAY SPACE

Space Play Academy

Space Play Academy earned recognition for creating an engaging environment where children can learn, explore and stay active through play.

spaceplayacademy.com | (908) 428-8141

and Confidence RAISED BETWEEN CURLS

A mother and salon owner reflects on raising four daughters in the business she built.

ARTICLE BY BROOKE BOYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY WESLEY CHERINGAL

For many families, work and home exist in separate worlds. For the family behind Hairitage Hair Lounge, they’ve always been beautifully intertwined.

As the owner of Hairitage Hair Lounge and a hairstylist with more than 20 years behind the chair, building a successful business has been only one part of the story. The other has been raising four daughters—Tia, Jayla, Hazel, and Ashlynn—while creating a life centered around confidence, resilience and family.

“We’ve grown up together in this community,” she says “My girls have spent so much of their lives in and around the salon, so hair has never just been my career—it’s been part of our family’s story.”

As a mother of curly-haired daughters, she developed a passion for helping children embrace their natural beauty. What began as a personal mission eventually became part of her professional philosophy.

“I wanted every child who sat in my chair to know their curls weren’t something to fight against—they were something to celebrate,” she says.

Like many working parents, balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship has not always been easy. The beauty industry rarely follows a traditional schedule, often requiring evenings and weekends away from home.

“The biggest challenge has always been time,” she explains “There were games, recitals and school events I couldn’t always make. But my girls always knew I was cheering them on.”

Growing up meant homework at aftercare, carpooling to activities, and the familiar aroma of the salon following their mother home. It meant watching her build something meaningful from the ground up while providing what she often describes as “a life and childhood I never had.”

Today, that influence is visible throughout the family. Jayla, 21, graduated from Somerset County Vocational & Technical High School with a concentration in cosmetology and now serves as salon coordinator. Tia, 19, attends Montclair State University while managing Hairitage’s social media. Hazel, 16, is dual-enrolled in cosmetology at the same vocational school and assists at the salon. Ashlynn, 8, already dreams of becoming a hairstylist just like her mom.

All four daughters attended Bridgewater schools—the same district as their mother—deepening the salon’s roots in the community.

“A lot of entrepreneurs lack compassion for their patrons because there’s a disconnect,” she says. “At Hairitage, it’s the opposite. We grew up here. We’re your local homegirls—literally.”

Along the way, the salon became much more than a workplace. It became a second home filled with clients who evolved into extended family. The daughters’ favorite memories include sweeping hair, gathering before special events, doing cartwheels when the salon was empty, and hearing clients share life lessons that shaped their character and work ethic.

Through it all, one lesson remained constant: confidence starts from within.

“I’ve always encouraged my girls to love who they are naturally first,” their mother says. “Physical features can be enhanced— but those things aren’t required to feel beautiful. They were born beautiful.”

When asked what she most hopes her daughters carry with them, her answer has little to do with hair.

“I hope they remember that they were deeply loved. I hope they remember laughter, salon memories, and knowing they could always be exactly who they were.”

Her daughters echo the sentiment: “She worked hard to make sure we understood that everyone is perfectly imperfect.”

For the family behind Hairitage Hair Lounge, that’s the legacy they hope endures—built on love, confidence, authenticity, and community.

HAIRITAGE HAIR LOUNGE

131 N. Gaston Ave., Suite 2 Somerville, NJ 08876 908-506-1111

hairitagehairlounge.com

Meet the Family

Jessica (Jessa) Colon opened Hairitage Hair Lounge in Somerville, NJ in 2017 after more than two decades in the beauty industry. Three of her four daughters are now part of the business: Jayla serves as salon coordinator, Tia manages social media, and Hazel assists in the salon. Youngest daughter Ashlynn, 8, is already planning her future behind the chair.

The Catcetera Cat Community

Raritan’s newest cat lounge connects felines, families, and friendships.

When Taiwan's Cat Flower Garden opened in 1998 as the world's first cat cafe, it sparked a global trend that continues today. The concept quickly spread throughout Asia, Europe and North America creating welcoming spaces where people could relax with cats while helping adoptable animals find forever homes.

Now Somerset County has joined the movement with the arrival of Catcetera, a cat lounge that opened this spring in Raritan.

The response has been overwhelming. In its first month alone, more than 1,600 visitors traveled from throughout New Jersey and New York to spend time with the lounge's resident cats.

For co-owner Wendy Zimmerman of Bridgewater, the idea had been years in the making. Along with friend and business partner Jessica Adams of Manville, she began exploring the concept in 2018 after visiting other cat lounges and adopting two cats from Catsbury Park in Asbury Park.

"I thought, this is awesome," Zimmerman says. "Everybody's coming in and then leaving happy."

Catcetera partners with two rescue organizations—Project MEOW in Philadelphia and Beacon of Hope Animal Rescue in Pittstown—to provide foster

care for adoptable cats. At any given time, between 25 and 35 cats roam freely through the lounge's two cat rooms, allowing visitors to interact with them in a relaxed, home-like setting.

"Our goal is to get cats adopted and allow the rescues to save more cats," Zimmerman says. "Rescues are struggling to find people to foster cats. We act like a big public foster home."

The rescue groups provide fully vetted cats that are spayed or neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. Catcetera assumes daily care responsibilities, including food, litter, toys and socialization.

"I love seeing cats that are shy and scared come out of their shells and realize they're safe," Zimmerman says.

Visitors can reserve one-hour sessions online for $20 or stop in as walk-ins when space allows. To ensure a positive experience for both cats and guests, attendance is capped at approximately 15 people per session.

When visitors form a bond with a cat, Catcetera helps facilitate the adoption process through its rescue partners. Adoption applications and approvals are handled directly by the rescues, while the lounge helps coordinate pickup and celebrates the occasion with keepsake photos.

“We are building community—using cats.” —Wendy Zimmerman

But Catcetera is about more than adoptions.

"We are building community—using cats," Zimmerman says.

The lounge already hosts cat yoga sessions, combining 45 minutes of cat interaction with a 45-minute yoga class. Future events include bingo nights, painting classes, board games, trivia competitions and community gatherings designed to bring people together while supporting animal welfare.

Zimmerman also hopes to offer programming for senior citizens who may be unable to own pets where they live.

"This gives them the opportunity to engage with animals," she says.

The name Catcetera reflects the lounge’s playful spirit. While brainstorming, Zimmerman discovered that “etcetera” comes from Latin and means “and the rest.”

"I thought, that's perfect," she says. "A place for cats and everything else."

As cat owners themselves—Zimmerman has five cats and Adams has two—the partners understand the benefits feline companionship can bring. Cats can help reduce stress, provide comfort and offer companionship without demanding the constant attention often required by dogs.

What has surprised them most, however, has been the support they've received from the community.

"So many people have helped us by offering donations or volunteering," Zimmerman says. "I'm speechless. Cat people are just awesome."

As Catcetera continues to grow, its mission remains simple: create a welcoming space where cats can find homes, people can connect, and the community can come together—one purr at a time.

BOOK A VISIT:

Catcetera

44 W. Somerset St., Suite B, Raritan, NJ 08869

catceteranj.com

Instagram: @catcetera_nj

THE BOYS’ NO BAKE BONBONS

Kid-chef-friendly no-bake dog treat recip

Tools Needed:

• Large mixing bowl

• Wooden spoon

• Measuring cups

• Cookie sheet

• Parchment paper

Ingredients:

• 1 ¼ cups whole oats, quick or regular

• 1 cup unsweetened dried coconut flakes

• 1 cup all-natural peanut butter, preferably no salt; absolutely no xylitol

• ¼ cup coconut oil, melted

• ¼ cup local honey

• All-natural carob powder and coconut flakes for finishing

Preparation Steps:

1. Combine the Base In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole oats and coconut flakes. Add the peanut butter, melted coconut oil and honey. Mix thoroughly with a wooden spoon until a uniform dough forms.

2. Shape the Treats With wet hands, roll small amounts of the mixture into balls. Shape portions according to the dog’s size. Larger treats will need more time to firm up in the refrigerator.

3. Chill and Coat Place treats on a parchment-lined cookie sheet. Transfer the tray to the refrigerator. Treats sized at roughly 2 tablespoons each will require approximately 15 minutes to set before the final coating.

4. Final Chill and Storage Return the coated treats to the refrigerator for an additional 30 to 40 minutes. Once the treats are dry and hold their shape securely, they are ready to serve. Transfer the remaining portions to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to one week.

RECIPE & PHOTOGRAPHY BY TATER BEAR TREATS

Treat your four-legged family member to something homemade, wholesome and easy enough for little hands to help make. Homemade pet treats are a healthy alternative to store-bought options, letting owners control ingredients and avoid artificial additives. This no-bake recipe combines whole oats, peanut butter and coconut for a simple kitchen project children can help prepare.

Because the recipe requires no oven time, the treats can be customized for small and large dogs.

About Tater Bear Treats

Tater Bear Treats is a New Jersey-based business founded in 2022 by dog owner Christine Weber and her dog, Bear. The company specializes in all-natural, small-batch, home-baked treats designed for pets using human-grade ingredients.

With 10 distinct varieties tested by Bear and a second rescue dog named Ford, the brand avoids preservatives and additives in its products. In addition to traditional cookies, the product line features smoked jerkies, pet accessories and curated home decor.

Tater Bear Treats products are available online: @tater.bear.treats on Facebook and Instagram.

TREY & KATIE KENNEDY

ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE

Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.

Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.

Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.

ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK

JANIE

“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”

Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.

After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”

The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.

FEATURING TREY & KATIE KENNEDY

Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.

Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

AUGUST 5TH - 7TH

Somerset County 4-H Fair

North Branch Park, 355 Milltown Road, Bridgewater, NJ 08807 | 10:00 AM

Celebrate community, leadership and tradition at the Somerset County 4-H Fair. Hosted at North Branch Park, this beloved annual event offers free admission and features interactive agricultural exhibits, local entertainment and family-friendly activities. Discover the finest accomplishments of regional 4-H members while enjoying a classic summer fair. Sign up at 4histops.org

AUGUST 8TH

You Fly It! Drone Experience

Bridgewater Commons, 400 Commons Way, Bridgewater, NJ 08807 | 12:00 PM

Immerse yourself in innovation during the “Drone Experience,” a modern showcase highlighting the latest advancements in aerial technology. Guests can view sophisticated flight demonstrations and discover how cutting-edge quadcopters are reshaping photography, mapping and technology. It is a sleek, forward-looking addition to your weekend calendar. Learn more at bridgewatercommons.com.

AUGUST 9TH

High in the Mid ’80s Concert

Duke Island Park, 191 Old York Road, Bridgewater, NJ 08807 | 6:30 PM

Experience the ultimate tribute to the new wave and pop explosion of the 1980s with High in the Mid ’80s. This seven-member ensemble of elite musicians captures the era’s signature sound with precision, delivering soaring vocals, shimmering synths and driving rhythms. Enjoy an evening of nostalgic outdoor entertainment at Duke Island Park. Reserve your spot at somersetcountyparks.org.

AUGUST 15TH

John Basilone Parade Night

TD Bank Ballpark, 860 E. Main St., Bridgewater, NJ 08807 | 5:30 PM

Enjoy a night of baseball and a celebration of America’s 250th anniversary as the Somerset Patriots take on the New Hampshire Fisher Cats during John Basilone Parade Night at TD Bank Ballpark. The evening features Revolutionary War encampments, historical programming throughout the concourse and postgame fireworks, with a portion of ticket proceeds benefiting the John Basilone Parade. Register at so6.glitnirticketing.com

AUGUST 22ND

The Big Show Card Show

Bridgewater Commons, 400 Commons Way, Bridgewater, NJ 08807 | 9:00 AM

Discover rare collectibles at “The Big Show Card Show,” the region’s premier free trading card event hosted at Bridgewater Commons. Perfect for enthusiasts and families alike, the showcase features an extensive array of vendors offering Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering and anime memorabilia, alongside giveaways and interactive entertainment. View event details at ontreasure.com

AUGUST 23RD

Rotary Family Fun Fest & Car Show

Somerset Hills YMCA, 140 Mt. Airy Road, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920 | 11:00 AM

Join the Rotary Club of the Somerset Hills for a community day of music, food, 50/50 raffles, and a classic car show, with all proceeds directly supporting local charities. Car owners can register to compete by contacting Tony Cucinell at tonycuch3@aol.com or (732) 2723225, with vehicle arrival starting at 9:00 AM.