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It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!
Happy December, North Hunterdon!
I’ve officially reached that point in the parenting journey where the holiday magic is… partially outsourced. For years, my husband was the chief elf wrangler in our house—moving “Alejandro,” our mischievous Elf on the Shelf, from one creative hiding spot to another each night. But as our family grew, so did the elf population. What started as one spritely visitor has now become a full-blown elf family, and let me tell you—the fun lasts about three nights before it turns into a logistical nightmare.
Thankfully, our oldest daughter (now nearly 17!) has taken over some of the elf duties. She’s far more creative than he is (and bonus points—she never forgets to move them). Last year, the elves spent the night ziplining from the kitchen to the Christmas tree—complete with ribbon, tape and just enough of a mess to leave me only slightly annoyed. I’ll admit, it was impressive. One of my favorite traditions, though, comes on Christmas Eve, when the elves leave behind a box filled with matching family pajamas before heading back to the North Pole.
This month’s issue celebrates that same spirit of love, laughter and togetherness. If you’re still searching for the perfect gift, our Holiday Gift Guide (page 16) has something for everyone. And if your version of holiday joy involves a little sugar (and a lot of sprinkles), check out Sprinkle Joy: Holiday Sugar Cookies to Share the Cheer (page 22) for a classic cookie recipe that fills your home with warmth—and just the right amount of kitchen chaos.
Turn to Holly Jolly Hunterdon (page 24) for all the festive fun happening nearby— from Dickens Days in Clinton to the Guild of Clinton Christmas Parade, Winter Village at the Red Mill, and Candle Light Night downtown. You’ll even find details on the Santa Express Train Ride and the Lebanon Borough New Year’s 5K Run, perfect for ending the year on a high note (and maybe justifying that extra cookie).
For a final touch of holiday nostalgia, read Generations of Holiday Cheer (page 18) to learn how the Peterson family has been helping New Jersey families find their perfect Christmas tree for decades.
From our family to yours, we wish you a joyful, laughter-filled holiday season surrounded by the people (and maybe the elves) who make life bright.
Dickens Jewelers & Design Studio, Patti Zielinski, Garden State City Lifestyle, Lauren Lovallo
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Red Mill Museum, Dickens Days, Hunterdon Hills
Ballet, Black River & Western Railroad Santa Express, St. Magdalen de Pazzi Church, InterContinental
Boston, Dickens Jewelers & Design Studio, Peterson Farm, Garden State City Lifestyle, Liz Polo - Havana Photography, Audra Giese, Christina Meerloo
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler Proverbs 3:5-6
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1—2: The Hunterdon World Fair brought family fun, great food and festive activities for all ages. 3—6: TV host and actor Montel Williams led a special “Military Makeover” event in Hampton this fall. 7: Art, community and connection shined at the Tewksbury Art Reception, a truly beautiful evening.
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GARDEN STATE CITY LIFESTYLE
GARDEN STATE CITY LIFESTYLE
GARDEN STATE CITY LIFESTYLE
GARDEN STATE CITY LIFESTYLE
LISA MADSON
GARDEN STATE CITY LIFESTYLE
business monthly
Hunterdon Land Trust Leads Transformational Campaign for the Dvoor Farm
Hunterdon Land Trust is reimagining Dvoor Farm’s historic Bank Barn into a year-round community venue. Phase I wrapped in summer 2024 with exterior upgrades. Phase II will add utilities, bathrooms, an elevator, and a kitchen, opening the space for programs and celebrations. A final phase, targeted for early 2027, will deliver site improvements. The restored complex will host 250–300 guests, boost local businesses, and generate revenue to advance HLT’s conservation and preservation mission—without new development.
EPIC Dance Company Named Best in Hunterdon County
Voted Best Dance Studio in Hunterdon County on the 2025 Hunterdon Happening List, EPIC Dance Company in Flemington is celebrating Season 14. The studio offers free trial classes for ages 2 through adult in styles including ballet, jazz, hip-hop and contemporary. New students who enroll after a trial receive $35 off the registration fee. Learn more at epicdancecompany.com
Tania Creative Touch Extends Holiday Savings on Renovations
Tania Creative Touch Kitchen & Bath, a woman-owned design studio with more than 25 years of experience, is extending a holiday offer of 10% off any order over $5,000. Whether you’re planning a full renovation or a small refresh—custom cabinetry, durable surfaces or smart storage—their team guides you from concept to completion with designs that fit your lifestyle. Learn more or request a consultation at taniacreativetouch.com
Photography by Hunterdon Land Trust
Photography by EPIC Dance Company
Photography by Tania Creative Touch
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY INTERCONTINENTAL BOSTON
Pack the car, grab your besties, and let the no fuss weekend unfold.
A Very Boston
Holiday
Want the weekend escape without dealing with the airport? Forget TSA lines and lost luggage — this trip is trunk-packed, playlist-ready and friendship-fueled. For us, the perfect girls’ getaway was Boston — a drive-in, park-it escape with waterfront views, spa time we could actually sneak away to and dinner just an elevator ride from our room.
FRIDAY ARRIVAL: CHAMPAGNE O’CLOCK
We rolled in on a Friday and checked into the InterContinental Boston on the waterfront, a stay that feels equal parts glam and cozy. The hotel sits between Fort Point Channel and the Rose Kennedy Greenway, giving us water on one side, city on the other and Seaport shops just a short walk away. We parked the car and didn’t need it again.
Step one of any girls’ trip? Kick off the heels, pop some bubbly and start plotting outfits no one will actually wear.
Rooms were bright and chic, with floor-to-ceiling windows and marble soaking tubs — the kind you’ll be texting your group chat about when the weather turns gray back home. Room service made it easy to call it an early night, ordering dessert in robes while catching up on stories we were “saving for the trip.”
WALK, TALK, SHOP, REPEAT
Our rhythm was effortless: walk, eat, talk, repeat. We strolled the Greenway, ducked into stores when the wind picked up and saved our energy for the evenings.
Night one, we kept it simple but celebratory. Matria, the hotel’s Piedmont-inspired restaurant, served up pasta worth writing home about. After, we lingered over espresso martinis at Bar Fellini, because girls’ trips always require at least one signature drink moment.
THE SPA PACT
Here’s the move everyone loved: a midafternoon sneak-away to the spa. Massages, facials — even just the quiet — were enough to reset us for round two of late-night laughs. A float in the indoor pool made us feel like kids again, while the 24/7 fitness center, complete with Pelotons, appealed to the friend training for a marathon who insists balance means one sweat for every pastry (from Mike’s, of course).
If you’re rolling in with your girls, book spa appointments in advance. Whether you opt for a group reset or a solo escape, it’s the kind of indulgence that makes a girls’ weekend feel next level.
SATURDAY GLOW AND CITY LIGHTS
Boston in December does the rest — twinkling lights, chilly streets that justify a third coffee stop and window glow that begged for group selfies. Breakfast was quick — coffee, something hot, something sweet to split — before we wandered the Harborwalk until our cheeks stung.
That’s the beauty of this getaway: no rigid itineraries, just a flow that lets laughter fill the gaps.
WHY IT WORKED
Location and options made this the ultimate girls’ trip. From the InterContinental, we could reach Seaport, downtown and the Greenway on foot, pivoting with weather and mood. No overthinking, no Uber spreadsheets, no stress.
Our group’s rules of the weekend: window-shop, find soup, book the spa.
IF YOU GO
• Arrive, park, exhale. You won’t need the car again.
• Book the spa early — holiday weekends fill up fast.
• Plan one dress-up night. Matria is perfect, and on-site makes it easy.
• Swimsuit and real coat — indoor pool for warmth, big coat for wind.
We drove home with clear heads, sore cheeks from laughing and camera rolls full of city lights, pasta and “one more selfie.” Turns out the perfect girls’ getaway didn’t require passports or crazy planning — just a good home base, friends who get you and time carved out for connection (and maybe one too many espresso martinis).
We drove home with clear heads, sore cheeks from laughing and camera rolls full of city lights, pasta and “one more selfie.” Honestly, that’s the best part of a girls’ weekend — piling into a car with your gal pals, leaving the chaos at home for a bit and turning a simple, low-stress escape into a core memory.
INTERCONTINENTAL BOSTON BY IHG
Address: 510 Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02210
Phone: (617) 747-1000
Website: ihg.com/intercontinental
HOLIDAY Gift Guide
A festive edit from Dickens Jewelers & Design Studio
’Tis the season to dazzle. At Dickens Jewelers & Design Studio, the team has curated chic, gift-ready pieces—from classic tennis sets to modern geometric designs—that move from holiday toast to New Year’s sparkle without missing a beat. Consider this your shortcut to “wow.”
DICKENS JEWELERS & DESIGN STUDIO
Longtime family-run business, offering diamonds, gold and custom jewelry, plus repair services.
Address: 22 Main St, Clinton, NJ 08809
Phone: (908) 730-6644
Website: dickensjewelersnj.com/
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY DICKENS JEWELERS & DESIGN STUDIO
1: TENNIS BRACELET AND NECKLACE | A classic never goes out of style. Shimmer through the season by pairing a diamond tennis bracelet with its match: a tennis necklace and timeless diamond studs or in-and-out hoops. The look is elegant, effortless and radiant under candlelight or a champagne glow.
2: DIAMOND STUDS & IN-AND-OUT HOOPS | From subtle sophistication to statement sparkle, diamond studs and in-and-out hoops finish any holiday look. Whether you’re sipping champagne by the fire or dancing the night away, these essentials catch the light—and every eye in the room.
3: STACKABLE TENNIS BRACELETS | Why settle for one when you can layer the luxury? Mix and stack tennis bracelets for a modern twist on timeless glamour — the perfect wrist party for festive gatherings and sparkling nights out.
4: GEOMETRIC PATTERNS | For contemporary sophistication, geometric diamond designs add architectural interest to any holiday ensemble. They reflect artistry, confidence and a dash of avant-garde flair.
Turn to the back of this magazine to see Dickens Jewelers’ exclusive holiday sales—and find the perfect gift that shines as brightly as the season. 4 2 3 1
Generations of HOLIDAY CHEER
The farm’s Christmas trees grow across a 10-acre field. “There’s a wide variety of shapes and sizes because when we prune them, we try to let each tree do what it does, so they all grow a little differently,” Peterson says.
The Peterson Family Christmas Tree Farm Tradition
ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY PETERSON FARM
The Peterson family loves being part of family traditions — and memories. As the owners of Peterson Farm in Flemington, John Peterson Jr., his son, Matthew, and grandson, Jake, have spent decades watching families select their perfect Christmas trees year after year.
“I’ve seen families coming out year after year as a tradition. People come as little kids and are still coming with their parents and bringing their own little kids,” says Jake Peterson, who now works alongside his father and grandfather to manage and operate the farm.
Peterson Farm dates to 1955, when John Peterson Sr. and his wife, Esther, purchased what was then a working dairy farm. When John Peterson Jr. inherited the property in the 1980s, he and Matthew became partners and took the farm in a new direction by planting Christmas trees and hay. Over time, they expanded to include a variety of crops — soybeans, wheat, strawberries, sweet corn, apples and peaches — and began raising their own beef.
Starting on Black Friday, families are invited to pick their own Christmas trees Friday through Sunday. “Customers can also tag a tree and return to cut it later,” Peterson says. Visitors can bring their own saws, borrow one from the farm or have a staff member cut the tree for them.
“It’s a festive atmosphere,” he says, noting that the farm serves free hot chocolate. “And if there’s snow, it’s magical.”
The farm offers Blue Spruce, Norway Spruce, Douglas Fir and Canaan Fir trees. “Spruce trees have a pricklier needle than fir trees, which are soft and don’t poke your skin,” Peterson says. “If people have heavier ornaments, we direct them toward a Canaan or Blue Spruce, which have stiffer branches. Fir trees also hold their needles much longer than spruce. So when we first open, we suggest staying away from cutting a Norway Spruce, from a needle retention standpoint.” He adds that if prickly needles are an issue, disposable gloves make handling easier.
Peterson’s mother, Sherrie, and sister, Harlee Wainwright, make fresh wreaths ranging from 12 inches to 5 feet in diameter. Other holiday items for sale include ornaments and decorative pieces painted by Sherrie, as well as Christmas-themed earrings.
“Buying a Christmas tree helps support your local farm and is better for the environment,” Peterson says.
“It serves as a habitat while it’s growing and is turned into mulch at the end of the season, not dumped in a landfill. And after trees are cut, another one is planted in its place.”
“It’s a festive atmosphere. And if there’s snow, it’s magical .”
Learn more about Peterson Farm at petersonfarm.net .
Jake Peterson’s Christmas Tree 101
BLUE SPRUCE
Branches are stiff for heavy ornaments and have very good needle retention.
NORWAY SPRUCE
Needle retention is fair and fragrance is mild.
DOUGLAS FIR
The classic Christmas tree look. It is full but has weaker branches. It has very good needle retention. The needles have a sweet fragrance when crushed.
CANAAN FIR
Similar to Fraser and Balsam Firs in appearance. It has very good needle retention, soft needles and offer a more pronounced fragrance than a Douglas Fir.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY GARDEN STATE CITY LIFESTYLE
A sweet family recipe perfect for gifting, snacking, and spreading holiday magic!
The holidays are all about togetherness, laughter and a little sugar-induced happiness. Few things capture that spirit better than baking cookies, filling the house with irresistible aromas and sharing sweet treats with neighbors, friends and family.
These festive sugar cookies are soft, chewy and covered in colorful sprinkles — perfect for gift-giving or sneaky bites straight from the cookie jar.
INGREDIENTS
COOKIES:
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra holiday flair)
• 3 to 4 tablespoons milk
• Colored sprinkles or sanding sugar for decorating
ICING:
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 to 3 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Food coloring (optional)
SPRINKLE JOY: HOLIDAY SUGAR COOKIES TO SHARE THE CHEER
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Heat oven to 375 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla and almond extract.
4. Gradually mix in dry ingredients, alternating with milk, until a soft dough forms.
5. Roll dough into 1-inch balls, then roll in sprinkles. Place 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
6. Flatten slightly with a glass or your hand. Bake 8 to 10 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
7. For icing, whisk powdered sugar, milk and vanilla until smooth. Divide and tint with food coloring, if desired.
8. Decorate cookies as desired with icing and extra sprinkles.
PRO TIP:
Use cookie cutters for stars, trees, or candy canes to make them extra festive.
Perfect for gifting in tins, wrapping in cellophane with a ribbon, or sneaking a few bites while sipping hot cocoa.
FOR MORE RECIPES LIKE THIS, FOLLOW @GARDENSTATECITYLIFESTYLE ON SOCIALS!
Holly Jolly Hunterdon
Dickens Days, twinkling parades, cocoa, and Santa by steam the weekend after Thanksgiving
Clinton is the place to be in Hunterdon County the weekend after Thanksgiving. Dickens Days, held Nov. 28–30, transforms the town into a Victorian-style holiday destination featuring horse-and-carriage rides, caroling, storytelling and a Santa’s Workshop hosted by the Guild of Clinton on the terrace of the Hunterdon Art Museum.
On Nov. 28, stick around for the Community Tree Lighting at 6:30 p.m. on Dora Restaurant’s patio and get into the holiday spirit with caroling by the Methodist Church choir and Santa’s arrival by firetruck. Father Christmas will be roaming the streets all weekend—so tell the children to behave. If you miss this St. Nick, come back for “Santa Comes to Town” on Dec. 14 from 1 to 3 p.m.
On Dec. 5, grab some hot cocoa and a prime sidewalk spot to watch up to 30 local floats, performers, bands and community groups ring in the season at the 39th Annual Guild of Clinton Christmas Parade. Need more parades? The Hunterdon County Holiday
ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY RED MILL MUSEUM, DICKENS DAYS, HUNTERDON HILLS BALLET, BLACK RIVER & WESTERN RAILROAD SANTA EXPRESS, ST. MAGDALEN DE PAZZI CHURCH
Parade takes place Dec. 6 in Flemington. Arrive early for in-store events and the Stangl Holiday Market, plus performances along Main Street before the parade.
Kick off your holiday shopping at the Winter Village at the Red Mill Museum Village in Clinton (Nov. 28–30 and Dec. 6–7). Sample treats from food trucks as you browse creative offerings from about 50 curated artisans and marvel at the concurrent Festival of Trees. The trees—decorated by community members, businesses and clubs—adorn the grounds through Jan. 1. Vote for your favorite. Wellbehaved dogs are welcome.
Find more one-of-a-kind gifts Dec. 6 in Flemington at the Christmas Craft Fair at St. Magdalen de Pazzi Church, featuring more than 70 artisans selling crafts, jewelry and decorative art, plus carolers and a food court.
Dickens Days
Stroll downtown Clinton Dec. 11 from 6 to 9 p.m. amid flickering luminaries during the annual Candle Light Night, and return Dec. 19–20 for “The Clinton Nutcracker,” performed by Hunterdon Hills Ballet at Clinton Township Middle School.
Santa sightings abound this season. From Nov. 23 to Dec. 28, hop aboard the Black River & Western Railroad’s Santa Express in Flemington to join Santa and Mrs. Claus on a 25-minute ride through the Hunterdon County countryside to Ringoes. At Ringoes Station, enjoy cookies, cocoa, festive
photo ops and a museum featuring railroad memorabilia and operating model trains before returning to Flemington. Children receive a handcrafted sleigh bell and a gold souvenir ticket. Bring a letter to drop in Santa’s mailbox at the station.
Amid the decadence of the season, register for the Lebanon Borough New Year’s 5K Run to start 2026 on the right foot. The flat run and walk begin at 10 a.m. and take participants through town, ending with a post-race celebration at Sunken Silo Brew Works. Cheers to that.
Not all events were available at press time. Check with your town for tree lightings and other community events, which are often listed closer to the date.
“The Clinton Nutcracker”
Winter Village at Red Mill Museum
Feeling Music the
Immaculata teen earns a patent at 16 with a music-inspired invention for the deaf and hard of hearing
Most teenagers can’t say they earned a patent by 16. Then again, Jack Falcone, a Martinsville resident, isn’t like most teens.
The Immaculata High School student has a knack for the extraordinary, driven by a desire to make the world better.
In July, Falcone was granted a U.S. patent for the Sound Glove , a wearable haptic feedback system designed for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. The idea was born from his passion for music and combines that love with his drive to help others.
The Sound Glove processes audio input in real time to generate haptic outputs based on the musical notes and rhythm of a composition.
“It’s a glove that the user puts on their hand, and within the inner layers of the glove there are motors that vibrate, like a massage gun,” says Falcone, an accomplished musician who plays the piano, organ, accordion and keyboard. “On the palm, there’s a device that takes in vibrations from the air and then sends that into a CPU, which is also inside. Through a line of code that I wrote, notes are converted to vibrations in the glove.”
The code works similarly to Braille, the tactile writing system for the visually impaired.
ARTICLE BY LAUREN LOVALLO
“It’s different sets of vibrations,” Falcone says. “A C could be a very fast and hard vibration, while a D could be very soft, or notes could be different speeds. The CPU tells each motor what to do, and the user learns which vibration matches each note.”
Falcone’s idea dates back several years.
“I think I was 12 or 13 when I came up with the idea and first tried to get a patent,” he says.
That spark was ignited at a Saint James School science fair, where students were challenged to identify a problem in the world and design a solution. With the guidance of Ellen Corcoran, who ran the school’s technology department, Falcone used a 3D printer to create the first version of his Sound Glove.
“While I was presenting it, multiple people told me I should get this patented,” Falcone says. “So I spoke to one of my dad’s friends, who referred us to a patent attorney. From there, I just kept pushing forward, adding more to it until I finally got patented.”
At age 14, he submitted his first patent application to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. It was denied. But after revising his design, Falcone resubmitted the application. This summer, it was approved — despite three other competing applications under review, two from medical device companies and one from Georgia Tech.
Falcone is already setting his sights on the future. He is exploring engineering-focused universities with programs that allow students to pursue dual degrees in business, computer science, engineering and health sciences, with the possibility of continuing into graduate and medical school. His goal is to innovate at the intersection of technology and medicine.
For now, he plans to continue perfecting the Sound Glove and eventually see it manufactured and sold.
Falcone’s accomplishments extend well beyond the patent. A gifted pianist, he has performed with multiple symphonies and was part of the prestigious Wharton Institute for the Performing Arts, including its selective jazz ensemble led by acclaimed musician Julius Tolentino. He was recently honored with the President’s Volunteer Service Award for his community service, which includes performing at nursing homes and creating 3D-printed emblems for veterans and residents.
“When I play for nursing homes, I’ve noticed many residents have lost their hearing over time,” Falcone says. “Some can’t hear what I’m playing, but when I play hits from the 1920s, they’ll tap their foot or finger and try to say ‘more.’ That joy inspires me. I want to create something that helps them feel the music.”
Falcone also excels in another field that requires precision: fencing. He is currently ranked No. 1 in New Jersey for men’s foil in his age category and No. 15 overall in the state.
Whether through music, invention or sport, Falcone’s focus, discipline and creativity set him apart.
“I want to keep innovating and creating things that make people’s lives better,” he says.
“I want to keep innovating and creating things that make people’s lives better ,” Jack Falcone
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIZ POLO - HAVANA PHOTOGRAPHY
realty report
MSI Plumbing & Remodeling’s Winter Home Guide
PRACTICAL TIPS, TIMELY UPGRADES AND WHAT TO DO BEFORE A FREEZE
For over 25 years MSI Plumbing & Remodeling has long roots in Hunterdon County. Founded by Les Giese and Anne Thornton, the company grew from property management into a full-service shop. Their daughter, Audra Giese, grew up in the business, returned in 2018 and became president in 2021. Remodeling Manager Brad Howell started as a summer helper 35 years ago, became a partner in 2004 and now oversees projects with an eye for detail. Plumbing Manager Rich DeTorres, a licensed master plumber since 1991, keeps the service side running smoothly.
MSI has expanded because, as the team puts it, they like helping people — and rarely say no. Today, services include plumbing — from fixtures and water heaters to filtration and whole-house “report card” inspections — as well as remodeling for kitchens, baths, basements and more. The company also handles home systems, including HVAC tuneups and standby generators.
WHAT SETS THEM APART
MSI emphasizes people-first service backed by in-house expertise across most trades. That means fewer outside crews in your home and fewer scheduling headaches. Many clients return for second or third remodels and request the same team members by name. The company is a certified Women’s Business Enterprise known for friendly service and practical problem-solving.
TOP FIVE TO-DOS BEFORE THE FIRST FREEZE
• Insulate exposed water lines in basements, attics, crawl spaces and garages.
• Drain and shut off outdoor spigots, hoses and irrigation lines.
• Install a smart water shut-off valve; many insurers now require or reward these.
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AUDRA GIESE, CHRISTINA MEERLOO
• Schedule a heating tuneup before temperatures dip.
• Seal drafts around doors, windows and wall penetrations to protect pipes on exterior walls.
FROZEN PIPES: RISK ZONES AND QUICK PREVENTION
Pipes along exterior walls or in unheated areas — basements, crawl spaces, garages and attics — face the greatest risk. Add insulation or heat tape, seal air leaks and drain exterior lines. During severe cold, open cabinet doors under sinks and let a faucet trickle overnight. If you’re unsure what’s vulnerable, MSI’s whole-home plumbing inspection can identify weak spots with photos and recommendations.
WATER HEATERS IN WINTER
Maintenance: Check the anode rod, test the temperature and pressure relief valve, and inspect for leaks or corrosion. If the tank has never been flushed, a first-time flush can stir up sediment and cause problems — proceed carefully and consult a professional.
Temperature: Set to 120 degrees for comfort, safety and efficiency.
Repair vs. Replace: Hard water shortens life expectancy; eight to 12 years is common. Repair newer units with minor issues; replace aging or corroded tanks. New Jersey requires permits for water heater replacements, so make sure your plumber handles the paperwork.
SUMP PUMPS AND STORM READINESS
Pour water into the pit to confirm the pump kicks on, test the float and check the discharge line. If your basement is prone to flooding, consider a battery backup to ride out outages.
SAFETY MUST-KNOWS
Place carbon monoxide detectors near bedrooms and fuel-burning appliances. Keep vents and chimneys clear of snow and debris. If you suspect a gas or CO leak, evacuate, call 911 from outside and don’t reenter until cleared.
“Many clients return for second or third remodels and request the same team members by name.”
“Once selections are set, work moves into demolition, roughins, inspections and installations, then finishes and a final walkthrough. With most trades handled in-house, schedules stay tight and coordination issues are minimized.”
SMALL EFFICIENCY UPGRADES THAT PAY OFF
• Smart thermostats for tighter control and less waste.
• Automatic water shut-off valves for leak protection, often incentivized by insurers.
• Pipe insulation to keep hot water hot and prevent freezing.
EMERGENCY PLAYBOOK: STEPS BEFORE A TECH ARRIVES
• Shut off the main water valve — know where it is before you need it.
• If safe, shut off gas and electricity to affected appliances.
• Contain leaks with buckets and towels.
• Call your contractor, take photos for insurance and wait for the pros.
TEAM MILESTONES
MSI is celebrating two team members, Peter Rude and Zack Lalas, who completed apprenticeships and are now test-ready for New Jersey’s master plumber license. The credential requires five years of apprenticeship and a three-part exam that includes business law — no small feat at a time when few new licenses are issued each year.
REMODELING, COORDINATED
Remodeling Manager Brad Howell leads a team that self-performs carpentry, plumbing, tile and finishes, partnering with local
Audra Giese
electrical firms as needed. MSI’s in-office Showcase — a curated micro-showroom — features cabinets, quartz, fixtures, hardware and paint, plus a large screen to review manufacturer sites and designs. The focused selection helps clients make confident choices without the overwhelm of a sprawling showroom.
Local design note: In a county full of century homes and farmhouses, clients often prefer timeless, traditional details. One growing request: stylish grab bars that double as towel or shower bars.
BATHROOMS, BY BUDGET
• Under $5,000: Add grab bars that blend in, upgrade faucets and handheld showers, or install a high-end washlet bidet with a heated seat and night light. Brands such as Moen and Toto are standouts for reliability.
• Under $15,000: Convert a tub/shower combo to a full shower. Don’t overthink resale — design for how you live; the next owner can always add a tub. When comparing estimates, confirm material allowances are realistic to avoid surprise costs.
KITCHEN UPGRADES THAT WORK:
Consider a dedicated instant hot and filtered water faucet for everyday convenience. Pot fillers look impressive but can introduce maintenance issues and still leave you carrying a heavy pot back to the sink to drain.
TIMELINE 101: FROM CONSULT TO PUNCH LIST
A typical project begins with an on-site visit to assess the space, budget and options. MSI provides a detailed estimate with allowances and a timeline. After contract and deposit, permits are filed and selections begin — often in the Showcase with guidance from President Audra Giese. Decide on longlead items early, especially custom American-made cabinets. Once selections are set, work moves into demolition, roughins, inspections and installations, then finishes and a final walkthrough. With most trades handled in-house, schedules stay tight and coordination issues are minimized.
Bottom line: A little preparation before the first freeze — and a few smart upgrades — can make your home safer, more efficient and far less stressful all winter long.
Enjoy a holiday theater production filled with favorite Christmas skits, songs, costumes and sets on select dates throughout December. The show blends tradition and joy with heartwarming moments for all ages. This popular performance sells out fast—reserve your seats today. More information: hhplayhouse.com.
THROUGH DECEMBER
Festival of Trees & Winter Village
56 Main Street, Clinton
Experience holiday magic at Clinton’s Red Mill Museum Village. Stroll among twinkling trees, shop more than 50 artisan vendors, enjoy seasonal treats and vote for your favorite festive décor. A must-visit local winter wonderland.
DECEMBER 5TH
Clinton’s Annual Christmas Parade
Main Street, Clinton | 7:00 PM
The town’s Main Street transforms into a holiday spectacle with lights, floats, carolers and community celebration under the December sky. More information: explorehunterdonnj.com
DECEMBER 6TH
Hunterdon Holiday Parade
Flemington, NJ (downtown area) | 5:00 PM
Festive lights, marching bands, floats and community cheer fill downtown Flemington in a holiday parade that kicks off the seasonal spirit across the county’s main streets.
DECEMBER 20TH
The Run Before Christmas–SantaCon 8K
Red Mill Museum Village, 56 Main St., Clinton | 8:00 AM
Join runners in festive gear for an 8K through Clinton, filled with holiday cheer, community spirit and fun. More information: findarace.com/us/events/the-run-before-christmas-santacon-8k .
DECEMBER 21ST
Countryside Christmas
9 Rocktown Rd, Ringoes | 12:00 PM
Celebrate Countryside Christmas at Unionville Vineyards with live music, a fire pit, DIY cork ornaments and more. Food for purchase includes a soup trio, sandwiches and cookies—don’t forget your tins.
CLINTON HEALTH CAMPUS 1738 Route 31, North Clinton, NJ 08809
