K9 Resorts of Hillsborough – A Backyard Paradise for Your Pup
Voted Best Doggy Daycare of 2025
Thank you for the trust and support! Our 10,000+ sq. ft. play space is where pups run free and make friends before going home better behaved and full of tailwagging joy Clean artificial turf, fresh air, and lots of love from the staff because your pet deserves a 5-star playdate. Come for a tour to see why K9 Resorts is where happy dogs choose to play.
SMART COMFORT, SMARTER PAYMENTS
Backed by over 20 years of experience, Protocol Electric delivers trusted comfor t with Carrier and Rheem’s reliable, energy-efficient systems. Our team makes it simple to keep your home cozy in the winter and cool in the summer, with skilled technicians who treat every client like family We install only the latest technology designed for long-lasting performance and effi ciency From fast service to guaranteed satisfaction, we handle every detail so you can relax and enjoy peace of mind
The Season of Gathering
November feels like the pause button in the middle of life’s chaos. Between shuttling kids to dance, soccer, and every other activity that pops onto the calendar, it’s easy to get swept along without stopping to breathe. This month gives us a moment to appreciate what we have, look ahead with gratitude, and, of course, dive into the joy of shopping. As you start checking gifts off your list, I encourage you to shop local—especially on Small Business Saturday—so we can keep Hunterdon County thriving through the season and beyond.
And then, of course, there’s the food. While Christmas holds the crown as my favorite holiday, Thanksgiving is a close second. Truth be told, I’m more about the sides than the turkey itself—give me mashed potatoes, stuffing, and corn and I’m happy. Anyone else secretly prefer the side dishes? Still, my true weakness is pumpkin pie. I honestly don’t know why I don’t eat it year-round. Perfectly good breakfast, dessert, or midnight snack— though in my world, a “midnight snack” really means 9 p.m. This year, I’ll be sure to pull out the trusty elastic band pants so I can enjoy guilt-free seconds (or thirds).
We’re also featuring stories that highlight community impact and hometown pride. Turn to page 22 for our cover story on Impact100 Hunterdon, where local women are redefining philanthropy through collective giving and awarding transformational grants to nonprofits. On page 14, meet Michael Carone of Hunterdon Door, who launched his business with a promise of integrity and reliable service. On page 28, see how K9 Resorts Hillsborough combines compassion with care, supporting both family pets and rescue dogs in need. And don’t miss City Lifestyle’s National Giving Campaign (page 10).
And if you’re still clinging to summer like I am, flip to our coverage of the Barefoot Country Music Fest (page 20). From Jason Aldean to Jelly Roll, Rascal Flatts to Lainey Wilson, the four-day celebration turned Wildwood into the unofficial capital of country music. Sunshine, sand, and a little twang—what more could you ask for?
May your hearts (and your plates) be full this season—and if you happen to save me a slice of pumpkin pie, I promise it won’t go to waste.
Brunch by DeMartino, Christopher Sztybel, Whitehouse Wind Symphony, David Surks, Impact100 Hunterdon, Hunterdon Health, Tom Solymosi, Nettie Einhorn Architectural
Media Service, Skyview Media
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Proverbs 3:5-6
city scene
1: Rigatoni was crowned the Garden State City Lifestyle Doggie of the Year at the Doggie Carnival! 2: Our Garden State City Lifestyle team loved Dink for a Difference—prizes, bites, smiles—supporting Comfort Cases. 3: High Bridge showed up big—Grounds for Art Fest brimmed with makers, music, movement, and community. 4: Apple season’s on! Grab friends, pick crisp favorites—Hunterdon County Orchards await. 5: Frenchtown’s Riverfest returned this summer with live music on two stages, 60+ local vendors, and all the riverside charm that makes Frenchtown special. 6: The Hunterdon County Fair featured rides, music and food during five days at South County Park. 7: This summer, the 20th annual Sourland Mountain Festival filled Unionville Vineyards with live music, local food and drink, artisan vendors, and more.
GARDEN STATE CITY LIFESTYLE
GARDEN STATE CITY LIFESTYLE
H O P E
Begins with YOU A SEASON TO SEE THE UNSEEN
The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?
The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.
Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.
“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”
Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:
SCAN TO NOMINATE
“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”
Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:
“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”
Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.
This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.
“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”
Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.
This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.
To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.
Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY BRUNCH BY DEMARTINO
Garden State City Lifestyle Recipe of the Month
For our November Thankful Issue, we’re especially thankful for these cozy Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes—our favorite recipe of the month from Brunch by DeMartino to share around the table with family and friends.
Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes
ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 Tbsp granulated sugar
• 1½ tsp baking powder
• ¾ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 Tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp canola oil
• Whole milk (to thin batter as needed)
directions:
Step 1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 2. In another bowl, combine buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and canola oil.
Step 3. Gradually mix wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just combined. Thin with a splash of milk if batter is too thick.
Step 4. Heat a lightly greased skillet or griddle over medium heat. Pour batter to form pancakes, cooking until bubbles form and edges are set before flipping.
Whipped Ricotta Topping
ingredients:
• 1 cup fresh ricotta
• 1 Tbsp honey
• 1 tsp lemon juice
directions:
Step 1. Combine ricotta, honey, and lemon juice in a mixing bowl.
Step 2. Whisk until smooth and fluffy.
Blueberry Compote
ingredients:
• 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
• 3 Tbsp water
• ¼ cup sugar
• 2 Tbsp honey
• 2 tsp lemon juice
directions:
Step 1. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup blueberries, water, sugar, honey, and lemon juice.
Step 2. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes.
Step 3. Add the remaining blueberries and continue cooking for 8 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened and glossy.
Serve pancakes warm with a dollop of whipped ricotta and a spoonful of blueberry compote.
For more yummy recipes like this, follow @gardenstatecitylifestyle on socials.
(Ages 2–4) Interactive
Family Music Classes (Ages 0–4)
697 US-202 | Far Hills, NJ 07931 FHCDS.org | 908-766-0622
a business
BUILT ON TRUST
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTOPHER SZTYBEL
Hunterdon Door Brings Integrity and Expertise to Garage Services
After 15 years in the garage door industry, Michael Carone took the leap into business ownership, launching Hunterdon Door in June 2025. With a career that has spanned warehousing, technician work, lead installations and sales, Carone brings hands-on expertise and a customer-first philosophy to every job.
Hunterdon Door specializes in residential garage door and operator installations, service and repair. From broken springs and cables to planned maintenance and new installs, Carone ensures his team is equipped for efficiency by keeping all common parts stocked in their vehicles at all times. That preparation, he said, allows them to solve problems quickly, saving customers time and stress.
“When it comes to customer service, we strive to get to our customers within 24 hours,” Carone said. “We had one woman call us in a panic at 4 p.m. on a Friday because her garage spring broke right before she was set to leave on a road trip. We arrived within the hour, got the door open and replaced the springs so she could be on her way. Seeing her relief reminded me why we do what we do.”
Prompt service, honest assessments and quality work at fair prices are pillars of the company. Carone said he believes customers deserve to feel valued — not passed around, overcharged or left waiting for a callback.
“We take pride in bringing integrity, reliability and quality craftsmanship back to the world of garage door services,” he said. “A lot of people are tired of companies that don’t return calls or send someone different every time. We want to be the opposite of that.
When you call Hunterdon Door, you know who you’re dealing with and you know the job will be done right.”
That philosophy has already helped set Hunterdon Door apart. In one case, two other companies declined a garage door installation due to site obstacles like beams and ductwork. Rather than turning the customer away, Carone and his team carefully assessed the space, developed a workaround, and successfully completed the install the same day. The experience, he said, reaffirmed his belief that problem-solving and persistence are just as important as technical skill.
Although the company is still in its early days, Carone is focused on sustainable growth and staying ahead of industry trends. He continues to connect with dealers, manufacturers and peers, and attends training sessions that offer advanced knowledge on new products and technologies. From smart garage door openers to improved safety features, Carone said he wants Hunterdon Door to always be at the forefront of what’s available to homeowners.
But beyond business goals, gratitude is at the center of Carone’s outlook. For him, building Hunterdon Door is about more than just installing and repairing garage doors. It’s about creating relationships, earning trust and being a reliable part of the Hunterdon County community.
“We’re thankful for the opportunity to help people with honest service and to build relationships in the community,” Carone said. “At the end of the day, it’s about knowing you’ve made someone’s life easier, safer and less stressful. That’s the kind of work I’m proud to stand behind.”
“We take pride in bringing integrity, reliability and quality craftsmanship back to the world of garage door services.”
- Michael Carone
MUSIC MEETS COMMUNITY
RMS and Whitehouse Wind Symphony Debut “Viking Spirit”
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY WHITEHOUSE WIND SYMPHONY
Readington Middle School (RMS), in partnership with the Whitehouse Wind Symphony, premiered Viking Spirit, an original composition by Christopher W. Johnson, on May 12. The performance brought RMS students and community musicians together for a unique collaboration in the school’s cafetorium.
“We were so excited to premiere Viking Spirit,” said RMS Band Director Samantha Lestrange. “The piece really captured the spirit of our band and our school. It was incredible to work with the Whitehouse Wind Symphony and see our students benefit from that experience.”
Johnson, a trombonist and founder of CWJ Music House Publications, is a longtime music educator whose works have appeared on Bandworld Magazine’s Top 100 list.
The Whitehouse Wind Symphony, based in central New Jersey and directed by James P. Sheeley Jr., features about 50 musicians from across the region and was recently named a 2025 Hunterdon Happening List winner.
The concert also included performances by the RMS eighth grade band, Jazz Band and seventh and eighth grade orchestra.
at the Barefoot COUNTRY MUSIC FEST
Garden State City Lifestyle was grateful to have a front-row view on Wildwood’s iconic beach at the 2025 Barefoot Country Music Fest — and it did not disappoint. Held June 19–22, the four-day celebration drew thousands of fans from across the nation to sing, dance and soak in coastal vibes.
Headliners included Jason Aldean, Jelly Roll, Lainey Wilson, Rascal Flatts and Jordan Davis, with more than 40 additional artists lighting up
multiple stages. From chart-topping anthems to beachside ballads, the lineup delivered nonstop entertainment and crowd-pleasing singalongs. Wilson brought powerhouse vocals and glittering style, Jelly Roll captivated with authenticity, and Rascal Flatts had fans of all ages belting every chorus.
The setting did half the magic. With the Atlantic as a backdrop and a steady ocean breeze, sets rolled from golden-hour glow into neon-lit nights. Fans in cowboy boots and flip-flops mingled along the boardwalk between shows, grabbing lemonades and soft-serve before hustling back for the next guitar solo.
Between performances, festivalgoers explored fan zones, sponsor activations and shaded lounges, while vendors served everything from barbecue to boardwalk classics. Beach-friendly production kept lines moving and sightlines clear; even from farther back, big screens and stacked sound kept the action close.
Standout moments included surprise guest appearances, acoustic breaks that quieted the beach to a hush and late-night closers that turned the shoreline into one swaying chorus. By Sunday, Wildwood felt like the unofficial capital of country music — and we left sunkissed and grateful for the view.
Whether you’re a country die-hard or just in it for summer vibes, Barefoot Country Music Fest is a must. Mark your calendar for next year; once you’ve danced barefoot in the sand to your favorite hits, you’ll count down until the next one.
If you go next year: Book lodging early, pack a brimmed hat and reef-safe sunscreen, bring a light layer for ocean breezes after sunset and consider a small beach blanket for between sets. Comfortable footwear is a win — boots optional, flip-flops welcome.
Learn more at barefootcountrymusicfest.com
HARNESSES THE POWER OF COLLECTIVE GIVING
IMPACT100 HUNTERDON
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY IMPACT100 HUNTERDON
Hunterdon County women are proving that philanthropy doesn’t have to be done alone. Founded in 2023, Impact100 Hunterdon has already awarded its first $100,000 transformational grant — and its leaders say this is just the beginning.
The organization follows a simple model: Each member contributes $1,000 annually, and those funds are pooled to
“I am moved by the gratitude of the clients I met in the program,” May-Grimes says. “In partnership with Freedom House, we addressed a global pressing need right here in our own community.”
For Leadership Council and Grants Chair Colleen Duerr, the early success is a testament to teamwork. “It takes a herculean effort to found a chapter and do it well,” she
“WHEN WE COME TOGETHER, OUR IMPACT GROWS EXPONENTIALLY. COLLECTIVE GIVING CONNECTS YOU TO SOMETHING BIGGER THAN YOURSELF.” - JERRI MAY-GRIMES
award large grants to local nonprofits. What makes it unique, members say, is how collective giving multiplies the power of individual contributions.
“Imagine being one of 100 women who each give $1,000 to create a $100,000 grant,” says Jerri May-Grimes, founding president of Impact100 Hunterdon. “When we come together, our impact grows exponentially. Collective giving connects you to something bigger than yourself.”
BUILDING MOMENTUM IN YEAR ONE
The chapter launched after a conversation in 2022 between community leaders and the Binnacle House board, which became the founding sponsor. By spring 2023, nine women around a conference table were asking themselves if they could really make it happen.
They did. In their first year, Impact100 Hunterdon welcomed 117 founding members, built committees, launched a website, hosted awareness events and ultimately awarded their inaugural grant to Freedom House to expand its sober-living program.
says. “The team came together so effectively and I’m proud to be part of that.”
WHY COLLECTIVE GIVING WORKS
Members emphasize that the Impact100 model is about more than writing a check.
“A $1,000 gift is impactful, but a $100,000 grant gives an organization the ability to initiate, grow or improve a program on a level that $1,000 simply can’t,” Duerr says. “It’s also an opportunity to work with a funder that is a vocal and active advocate for their work.”
Vice President and founding member Jeannie Colalillo agrees. “Women have always given their time, but Impact100 asks for a significant cash contribution,” she says. “Individually we can’t give at the levels of a MacKenzie Scott or Melinda Gates, but collectively, we can make a difference.”
REDEFINING PHILANTHROPY
Several members say Impact100 has shifted how they view giving.
“The term ‘philanthropy’ is not something I associated with myself,” Colalillo says. “Impact100 has encouraged me to think about giving in a more intentional way.”
“I’M
THANKFUL FOR THE WOMEN WHO SHARE THE PASSION AND PURPOSE OF MAKING MEANINGFUL CHANGE.”
For Membership Chair Michelle Heide, the experience has been both personal and practical. “As a business owner, I’m constantly being asked to sponsor things,” she says. “By participating in this chapter, my resources are pooled with 99 other women and we can collectively make a huge impact.”
LOOKING AHEAD
Impact100 Hunterdon’s short-term goal is to grow its membership to 200 women and eventually award multiple six-figure grants each year across its five focus areas: Arts and Culture, Education, Environment, Family, and Health & Wellness.
Long term, members hope the chapter reshapes philanthropy across Hunterdon County.
“Hunterdon is a wonderful community but we can do better in generosity,” Duerr says. “We can change that.”
GRATITUDE AND GROWTH
As part of Impact100’s spirit of gratitude, members say they are most thankful for the bonds formed along the way.
“I’m thankful for the incredible women I have met in this journey,” Duerr says.
“I’m thankful for the women who share the passion and purpose of making meaningful change,” May-Grimes says.
And for Heide, the mission is simple: “I’m thankful for meeting amazing women in our community and learning about the important work our nonprofits are doing.”
GETTING INVOLVED
Impact100 Hunterdon welcomes new members. The membership drive for this year’s giving cycle concludes Nov. 30, 2025. Women interested can visit www.impact100hunterdon.org, attend an event or connect directly with current members.
As Colalillo puts it: “Reach out. I’ll go on a walk with anyone interested in learning more.”
“Impact100 is a collective force for good; uniting and empowering women to give together, creating transformational impact, locally and globally.”
realty report
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY HUNTERDON HEALTH
Hunterdon Health: Comprehensive Care, All in One Place
WHERE INNOVATION, WELLNESS, AND COMPASSIONATE CARE COME TOGETHER
When it comes to health, convenience, quality and continuity matter. At Hunterdon Health’s Clinton Health Campus, patients find all three—often in a single visit. From preventive fitness to pediatrics, imaging and specialty care, the system offers a seamless, whole-person approach backed by nationally recognized quality and a deep commitment to the community. This November, we’re especially thankful to have comprehensive, coordinated care close to home—because not every community does.
Services at the Clinton Health Campus include:
HUNTERDON HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER
It all begins with proactive wellness. At the Hunterdon Health & Wellness Centers, community members (age 12 and older) can access state-of-theart fitness facilities and a variety of fun and challenging group exercise classes. Our dedicated staff is ready to assist members with everyday fitness, personal training, weight management, health education, and more. All members receive a personalized fitness assessment and exercise equipment orientations prior to beginning an individually tailored program. The Center also includes a 5-lane lap pool, therapy pool, whirlpool, sauna and steam rooms. Come take a tour or learn more at hunterdonhealthandwellness.org
PRIMARY CARE
Your health and well-being are our main priority. Our board-certified family physicians at Hunterdon Family Medicine at Riverfield are specially trained to care for every member of your family, from newborns to adults. To schedule an appointment, call 908-735-4645.
PEDIATRIC CARE
Hunterdon Pediatric Associates offers a full range of primary care pediatric, and adolescent medicine services. Our doctors and nurse practitioners are happy to address any topic relating to your child’s health and well-being. To schedule an appointment, call 908-735-3960. To learn more, visit hunterdonpediatrics.org
Brett Kolpan, M.D., Hunterdon Family Medicine at Riverfield with a patient.
ADVANCED IMAGING & DIAGNOSTICS
Convenience meets precision at Hunterdon Advanced Imaging at Clinton, where patients can receive X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, mammograms, ultrasounds and bone density scans without the hassle of multiple appointments or travel. Equipped with the latest technology and staffed by experienced radiologists and technicians, these services play a critical role in early detection and effective treatment planning. To schedule an appointment, call 908-237-4150.
The Hunterdon Heart and Vascular Center also offers vascular ultrasound, cardiac testing and nuclear testing in Clinton. To schedule an appointment, call 908-735-6275.
PHYSICAL AND OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
Our experienced staff is trained in current rehabilitation protocols and manual therapy techniques. We pride ourselves on our one-on-one evaluations and treatments tailored to meet individual goals and needs. Our reputation includes high levels of patient satisfaction and therapeutic outcomes. We provide care for patients who are five years old and older. To schedule an appointment, call 908-735-3930.
LABORATORY
The outpatient laboratory is open MondayFriday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. To schedule an appointment, call 908-237-4150.
CARDIAC REHABILITATION
Cardiac Rehabilitation is a doctor-supervised program for people who have heart disease or risk factors for heart disease. Cardiac Rehabilitation has proven effective in aiding patients’ post-event recovery and longer-term health by improving functional capacity, reducing symptoms, promoting heart-healthy choices, and creating a sense of well-being. To learn more, call 908-788-6371.
SPECIALISTS YOU CAN COUNT ON
When more targeted care is needed, Hunterdon Health offers a comprehensive range of specialty services — all easily accessible within its system. Hunterdon Cardiovascular Associates, The Vein Institute of Hunterdon, and Paul Phillips Eye & Surgery Center are located at this location. The close coordination between primary care physicians and specialists ensures a unified, informed approach to diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. For
The Clinton Health Campus offers Physical and Occupational Therapy
Georgina and the K9 Resorts Hillsborough
GRATEFUL hearts, wagging TAILS
When Luca Blessent first opened the doors to K9 Resorts Hillsborough, he envisioned more than just a premier boarding and daycare facility. He imagined a place where every dog — from family pets to rescues awaiting their forever homes — could feel safe, cared for, and loved.
That mission has only grown stronger in the years since. Blessent, who owns the Hillsborough location with his wife, Georgina, says gratitude is at the heart of everything they do. “We’re thankful for the trust families place in us, and in return, we make sure every pup who comes through our doors receives the same quality care,” he says.
BEYOND BOARDING
K9 Resorts Hillsborough stands out for the way it weaves community and compassion into its operations. The team regularly provides complimentary boarding for rescue dogs in urgent need of housing, ensuring they are treated with the same attention and comfort as paying guests.
“Our facility has hosted many dogs who might not have had another option,” Blessent says. “Rescue dogs here don’t just have a place to sleep — they have the same positive, enriching experience as any client’s pet.”
K9 Resorts Hillsborough’s Ongoing Commitment to Dogs in Need
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY TOM SOLYMOSI
Luca Blessent and his wife Georgina
K9 Resorts Hillsborough
This year, the resort introduced a new initiative: an adoption package offering free evaluations and three nights of boarding for newly adopted rescue pups. The program is designed to give new pet parents peace of mind as they transition into life with their furry family member.
SAFE, CLEAN, AND COMPASSIONATE
Behind the playtime and pampering, K9 Resorts Hillsborough is meticulous about safety and cleanliness. Every dog undergoes a two-part evaluation before boarding, designed to ensure they’re comfortable with the facility and, if applicable, thrive in group play. For pups who prefer a quieter experience, the resort offers one-on-one play sessions with staff.
“Our goal is for every dog to truly enjoy being here,” Blessent says. “It’s about creating a safe and positive environment, whether that means romping with other dogs or bonding with our team.”
STORIES THAT STAY WITH YOU
Some rescues leave an indelible mark. Last year, a young pit bull named Barney was found abandoned at a park and taken into rescue custody. With no space available, Blessent stepped in to help. Barney stayed at K9 Resorts for several months, quickly becoming a staff favorite. He even made a live television appearance with Blessent to raise awareness about adoption.
Barney has since found a loving home, but he still returns to K9 Resorts for boarding — wagging his tail as if he never left.
THANKFUL FOR THE JOURNEY
Blessent credits the resort’s success not only to its top-tier facilities but also to a staff dedicated to the well-being of every dog. From shy pups who learn to run through the doors with excitement, to rescue dogs who find a second chance at life, every story fuels their gratitude.
“Every adoption, every happy tail wag — that’s what reminds us why we do this,” Blessent says. “We’re thankful to be part of these dogs’ lives, even for just a short while.”
For Blessent, thankfulness goes beyond business. It’s about community, compassion, and making a difference — one paw print at a time.
For more information, visit k9resorts.com/hillsborough
Address: 63 US-206 Suite 100, Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844
Phone: (908) 300-5311
Website: k9resorts.com/hillsborough
K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel Hillsborough
PRIVATE RAVENSWOOD ESTATE
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NETTIE EINHORN ARCHITECTURAL MEDIA SERVICE AND SKYVIEW MEDIA
Spacious 5BR, 5.1BA with Palladian windows, spa primary suite, and an expansive deck with gazebo.
Welcome to Ravenswood, one of Basking Ridge’s most coveted enclaves with a Far Hills mailing address, stands a residence that blends presence and privacy. Reserved by the builder for its premier homesite, this custom, four-sided brick colonial sits on 3.5 acres bordered by mature trees and sweeping lawns. From dignified quoin corners to detailed millwork, every element reflects craftsmanship rarely found today.
The approach is understated, the impact immediate. Landscape lighting highlights curated hardscaping, and a broad drive leads to an entrance framed by symmetry and scale. Inside, a two-story foyer with a bespoke oak staircase opens to a double-height family room anchored by a gas fireplace and floor-to-ceiling Palladian windows. Ten-foot ceilings add air and openness, while thoughtful sightlines create a natural flow between spaces.
Designed for both performance and gathering, the kitchen features furniture-quality cabinetry, a substantial center island and professional-grade appliances. An adjoining breakfast room overlooks the grounds, bringing the outdoors into daily life. A first-floor guest suite provides privacy for visitors or extended family; upstairs, a separate wing offers a private retreat.
The primary suite is a sanctuary. A fireplace lends warmth, while an adjoining office and exercise room fit modern routines. Dual walk-in closets provide tailored storage, and the spa bath— featuring an oversized shower, jetted Kohler tub and dual vanities—rivals a luxury hotel. Additional bedrooms on this level are generous in scale for family or guests.
The finished lower level extends versatility with a third tier of living space, ideal for media, recreation or wine storage. Outdoors, the grounds set this estate apart: a 40-by-20-foot heated gunite pool with dual waterfalls, granite coping and Kool Decking forms the centerpiece of a resort-style setting. Expansive terraces, a gazebo and professional landscaping suit both quiet mornings and festive entertaining.
Beyond Ravenswood, the appeal continues. Basking Ridge offers nationally ranked schools, a strong sense of community and proximity to New York City—an uncommon mix of tranquility and accessibility. For buyers who value architectural integrity and lifestyle, this estate is a rare opportunity in one of New Jersey’s most desirable settings.
Marie Young, Basking Ridge Real Estate, Coldwell Banker
Address: 1 S Finley Ave, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
Phone: (908) 938-2525
Website: marieyoung.net
NOVEMBER 8TH
Northlandz Model Railroad Autism Fundraiser
495 U.S.-202, Flemington | 10:00 AM
See the world’s largest model railroad and support a great cause. All ticket sales benefit Autism New Jersey. For more information, go to autismnj.org/event/northlandz-model-railroad-autism-fundraiser.
Move, stretch and strengthen in a creative, supportive series led by fitness and wellness professionals inside the Hunterdon Art Museum’s riverfront galleries. For more information, go to hunterdonartmuseum.org
NOVEMBER 15TH
Saturday Night Stargazing (NJAA, Paul Robinson Observatory, Voorhees State Park)
Observatory Rd., Voorhees State Park, High Bridge | 8:30 PM
Peer through large telescopes with volunteer astronomers and tour the observatory. Public nights are held Saturdays, weather permitting.
Join thousands for New Jersey’s original Turkey Trot, a Thanksgiving morning 5K or 2-mile walk through historic Flemington. For more information, go to runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Flemington/CEAJohannaFoodsTurkeyTrot.
NOVEMBER 28TH
Winter Village & Festival of Trees | Red Mill Museum Village
56 Main St., Clinton | 10:00 AM
Shop an outdoor artisan market, sip seasonal treats and browse decorated trees along the scenic South Branch—a post-Thanksgiving outing for all ages. Admission benefits the Red Mill Museum Village. For more information, go to theredmill.org/events
NOVEMBER 28TH
Dickens’ Days (Clinton Guild)
Downtown Clinton (Main St.), Clinton | 12:00 AM
Downtown turns into a Victorian village with carolers, Father Christmas, horse-drawn carriage rides and shop specials along the river.
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CLINTON HEALTH CAMPUS 1738 Route 31, North Clinton, NJ 08809
