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Growing up at “39 Wilmont” was a gift in itself. But at Christmastime, our childhood home transformed into something extraordinary—a place of wonderment that we can still feel in our hearts today. Our parents were not wealthy by any means—but you never could have convinced us of that. The abundance we knew came not from things, but from moments. From love. From the kind of joy that doesn’t fit beneath a tree, yet fills an entire home.

They both played Santa Claus: Dad, hanging lights on the tree, singing Nat King Cole and exaggerating his already booming belly laugh; Mom—our own Christmas elf—moving in a flurry through the house, baking, wrapping, and weaving wonder into every small detail. With her hands and heart, she built something lasting: a belief in the magic of Christmas that she passed on to each of her five daughters.
This issue, we celebrate that same spirit of giving—the little gestures that brighten days, the gifts that spark joy, and the moments that bring us closer together. We also honor the local retailers who make it possible to shop right here in our own town—no crowded malls, no parking headaches—just the joy of supporting the people and places that make our community thrive.
And to you, our Scotch Plains–Fanwood readers—you are a gift to us. Your support, your stories, and your shared sense of community remind us that the heart of giving is found in how we share ourselves with one another.
From our family to yours, may this season bring laughter, good health, and a little holiday magic to carry with you all year long.
Cheers!

TERRY AZAD & VERONICA KAUTZ, EDITOR & PUBLISHER @SCOTCHPLAINSCITYLIFESTYLE
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Veronica Kautz | veronica.kautz@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Terry Azad | terry.azad@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Dan Amatuzzi, Terry Azad
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Photos by Craig Smith
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
























With
We are dedicated to preserving memories that last a lifetime, as well as being experts in visual storytelling that aligns with each client’s wants and needs. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or captivating the essence of your brand, trust C Paige Photography to transform moments into timeless treasures.







1: Out Run Your Fork hosts their Health and Wellness Expo 2: Isola Italian Trattoria opens new restaurant in Westfield, led by Chef Ermelindo Firmani 3: 40 Dreams Catering in Westfield, launches "Thrive" with Chef Prepared Food for Seniors 4: Union Catholic's Girls Cross Country team ranks #1 in NJ and #3 Nationally 5: Matt Delaney starts construction on his new business: Real Hot Yoga coming soon to Fanwood! 6: Gracie and Santa. Rest in Peace Lisa. 7: Mayor Josh Losardo says Scotch Plains Day is a hit!









At Ross & Calandrillo, we are dedicated to providing exceptional legal services with a personal touch. With decades of experience, we offer compassionate and effective representation tailored to your needs. Our areas of expertise include:
• Family Law and Related Matters: Divorce, custody, support, and more.
• Simple Wills: Protect your loved ones with a straightforward estate plan.
• Residential Real Estate Closings: Guiding you through seamless home buying or selling.
Conveniently located in Mountainside, we are proud to serve the Scotch Plains community with integrity and personalized attention. Let us handle the legal details so you can focus on what matters most.
















For over a decade, the dedicated staff of Compass SchoolHouse has been setting the course for a young child's lifetime love of learning. Located at 125 Elmer Street in Westfield, Compass SchoolHouse offers Full-Day Kindergarten and a wide range of programs for preschoolers, starting at 12 months. Through creative play, a nurturing teaching staff, and an engaged community of families, children receive a strong foundation based on respect, empathy, and kindness. Congratulations to the Compass community on this milestone!
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Congratulations to Margaret Heisey on her promotion from Deputy Manager to Township Manager for Scotch Plains Township. With ten years of experience working on behalf of Scotch Plains, Margaret brings institutional knowledge, proven management experience, and a passion for serving the community to this critical leadership position. She will oversee all municipal staff and the day-to-day affairs at town hall, reporting directly to the Mayor and Township Council. Congratulations Margaret!
Beloved jewelry label Laguna Bohemia Handcrafted is opening its first brick-and-mortar store located at 405B Park Avenue in Scotch Plains, NJ! Known for high-quality 14 k gold-filled beads, meaningful designs and craftmanship, shoppers are sure to find the perfect gift this season! All jewelry is hand crafted by mother-daughter team Patty and Lindsay Laguna. Loyal shoppers and new customers alike can now explore their signature stackable bracelets, charm build-bars, permanent jewelry and more in a welcoming space.












Find the perfect gift for bird-watching enthusiasts at Wild Birds Unlimited
Some of the funniest moments I experienced growing up involved my dad and his ongoing quest to keep squirrels out of the bird feeder hanging from a tree in our yard. First, he would outfit the feeder with homemade booby traps designed to outsmart these crafty woodland creatures. Then, he would sit at the kitchen table daring…DARING…his bushy-tailed foes to try…JUST TRY…to get to the bird food. And after a drawn-out performance of tree acrobatics played against a soundtrack of expletives from my father - the squirrel would reign victorious. Every time.
My father was not alone in his plight. Countless others have faced a similar enemy. Today - we take back our bird feeders, and our sanity, with a trip to Wild Birds Unlimited (WBU) located on Route 22 in Scotch Plains. Here, one can procure “The Eliminator” a bird feeder that when hung or mounted according to instructions (at least 18 inches off the ground and away from the nearest tree limb) is reliably squirrel-proof. Using weight-sensitive technology, the feeder's seed ports close when a squirrel touches the perch ring. The perfect gift for the frustrated bird lover in your life.
Wild Birds Unlimited has been owned by local bird enthusiast, Richard Elliott, since 2017. He offers fellow hobbyists a wide array of backyard bird-feeding supplies, nature-themed décor, and unique gifts. His store is immaculately organized, yet cozy and
ARTICLE BY TERRY AZAD PHOTOGRAPHY BY CRAIG SMITH
filled with charm. I walk around the store and lob a barrage of questions about birds, suddenly filled with a curiosity I didn’t even know I had. Richard and his team are all too happy to answer. While here, I witness a consistent stream of loyal customers coming in to replenish their seed supply or to get new pieces for their outdoor feeding system. A gentleman named John shares that he drove almost an hour to Richard’s store, specifically for the exceptional customer service he receives, even though he has options closer to his home. Perhaps you know someone who loves sitting at the window for the quiet pleasure of watching birds visit their yard. Richard will help you find the perfect feeders and seed to create a bird friendly habitat that attracts the birds indigenous to this region. “Bird feeding is a wonderful way to connect with nature right in your own backyard” says Richard. To get you started he offers these gift buying tips and recommendations:

HOW TO GIFT?
• For the Beginner / New Hobbyist: Something simple like a hanging tray feeder or a gift card introduces the gift of a new hobby.
• For the Seasoned Bird-Watcher: High-quality feeders, bath heaters, or specialty nectar/hummingbird items—these show you know and appreciate their commitment.
• Consider space and climate: Does the person have a yard, patio, balcony, or an apartment window? Window feeders or hummingbird setups are better for smaller spaces. High-fat seed blends are a great option for winter birds.
WHAT FEEDERS TO GIFT?
• The APS Hanging System provides an elegant base for a feeding station
• The Eco Tough Classic Feeder is made of recycled plastic so it won’t crack, fade or rot.


• The Seed Cylinder blends creative design with bird feeder functionality
• The Eliminator Squirrel Proof Feeder for those battling squirrels in their yard like my dad!
• Bird-themed mugs (with gift boxes) featuring owls, hummingbirds, goldfinches and more.
• Bird Identification Guide Books
• Seed characters and ornaments; whimsical seed cylinders shaped like owls or other animals ready to hang and attract a wide variety of birds.
• Nature-themed home decor items like wind spinners, bird baths, or hand-felted birdhouses crafted by artisans. Unique gifts for indoors and outdoors.
For the bird-lover in your life, you’re not just giving an object — you’re giving the experience of nature, the joy of surprise visits by birds, and the satisfaction of creating habitat in one’s own backyard. Minus the squirrels!

OUR HOUSE INC'S CEO MICHELE DELCORSANO LIVES, AND GIVES, A LIFE OF PURPOSE
BY TERRY AZAD | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Our House celebrates a new residence in Watchung
Michele leads a “Skills Up” training class

Anything is possible. Disability reveals nothing about a person’s true potential.
Fanwood resident and lifelong “Jersey Girl”
Michele DelCorsano is a natural giver. As a graduate of Union Catholic Highschool in Scotch Plains she learned from an early age how to turn compassion into purpose. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Susquehanna University followed by a master’s degree in organizational psychology from Kean University, she now uses her own purpose to give the very same back to others. As President and CEO of Our House, Inc, a New Jersey–based nonprofit whose mission is to provide “healthy, stimulating, and inclusive environments for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities” Michele shares a gift many families thought their loved one might never receive: the opportunity to live a meaningful and productive life.
Through community residences, employment services, innovative day programs, social opportunities and related support services, Our House helps adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) achieve their full potential. This is a community of people with significant cognitive delays that can’t live independently but CAN find independent activity through job skills, social interactions and resident-living outside of their family’s home.
In March, Michele celebrated over 20 years at Our House, Inc., a milestone she describes as one of the greatest gifts of her life. After being appointed President & CEO in 2015 she has guided the nonprofit with clarity, compassion and conviction. She believes deeply that, with the right support system, anything is possible, and that disability reveals nothing
about a person’s true potential. To that end, she has positioned Our House not just as a service provider, but as a community builder. She has emphasized inclusive practices and integration into the community, ensuring that people supported by Our House are not isolated. Rather, they are full participants in neighborhood life. During her tenure, the agency’s services have grown — During her tenure, the agency’s services have grown with the addition of new programs like “Skills Up” which provides training for entry level jobs. She has raised capital to support the purchase and renovation of new residences, including homes in Watchung and Westfield. And she has garnered a deeper bench of social and employment support with corporate partnerships like the one shared with Prudential. And while Michele is the face of Our House, she credits her 350 team members as being the heart and soul of a collective mission. With most employees coming from the healthcare sector, she proudly boasts about the compassionate and caring people that love the work they do. Our House proudly celebrates their 45th Anniversary this year - with a vision for continued growth and opportunity for the IDD community. And in a full-circle moment, Michele was inducted into the Union Catholic Hall of Fame as the 2025 Recipient of The Hero Award for the resounding impact she has made on countless lives. In the audience sit her daughters, Sienna and Aubrey, both current students at Union Catholic (Class of 2026 and 2029 respectively). They beam with pride at their mother, a woman who has taught them the gift of selflessness.
ARTICLE BY TERRY AZAD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CRAIG SMITH

When local resident Carlos Rocha decided to go out on his own over eleven years ago, it was with one thing in mind: Home. A licensed electrician with a strict code of conduct, Carlos prioritized respect for the residences and businesses he was trusted to service. But his highest priority was his two sons David (11) and Mason (7). Carlos knew he needed to own his schedule to be a consistent presence at home for his boys. With this as his motivation - and a decade of experience working for other contractors - Carlos launched High Class Electric, LLC, a family-owned electrical contracting business based in Garwood, New Jersey. Now, another decade later, Carlos has a company that reflects his values of delivering high-quality electrical services with integrity, responsiveness and craftsmanship. The company’s motto, “It’s your home and we treat it like it’s our own,” is the foundation of the long-term client relationships he holds today.
I treat every home like it’s my own - and every job with respect for my customer’s time and budget.
Under Carlos’s leadership, the company specializes in a broad range of services — from residential wiring and panel upgrades to generator installations and EV charger setups. He partners with General Contractors to support new development and full-scale renovation projects. His strong reputation is rooted in transparent communication, clear pricing, and dependable workmanship. When asked about some of his favorite projects Carlos beams. He tells story after story of the home projects that brought joy to his customers. He describes the unique specialty he now holds in the installation of enormous chandeliers, some requiring piece-by-piece construction. One job took three workers (himself included) and three days to complete due to the delicate nature of the crystal pieces and the intricacy of their placement. And then there’s the “famous” outdoor hot tub Carlos installed for friend and fellow business owner Thomas, who thought he could just “plug it in”. Thankfully Carlos was there to set him straight as spagrade hot tubs require a checklist of electrical work to meet code and provide safe enjoyment. Carlos installed a dedicated GFCI-protected 220V circuit (that’s the



“If you’re looking for an electrician who will listen to your concerns and vision, not just “give you the quote” and will take the time to educate you, explain options and respect your budget, then Carlos is your guy.”
thing that prevents our friend Thomas from getting shocked!), provided weatherproof conduit and fittings and made sure the bonding and grounding met code. Now Thomas is his biggest fan. “If you’re looking for an electrician who will listen to your concerns and vision, not just “give you the quote” and will take the time to educate you, explain options and respect your budget, then Carlos is your guy,” says Thomas.
Carlos Rocha isn’t just the owner — he’s the face of High Class Electric’s commitment to dependable, honest electrical contracting in Central Jersey. Whether you’re upgrading your panel for modern loads, installing EV charging, replacing outdated wiring, or simply need reliable troubleshooting — Carlos is positioned to support you. His focus on quality work, open communication and customer satisfaction makes him a shining light in his field. (All puns intended!)














ARTICLE BY DAN AMATUZZI PHOTOGRAPHY BY CRAIG SMITH


LOCAL WINE EXPERT DAN AMATUZZI PARTNERS WITH LIAD AMIR OF SUNRISE CELLARS IN WESTFIELD TO CURATE THE PERFECT WINE GIFT
As the holidays draw near, our charming community begins to sparkle. Twinkling lights down Park Avenue, the scent of pine and cinnamon seeping from neighborhood homes, and the joyful buzz of local shops championing the revelry of the season. Whether you’re attending a holiday dinner or festive get-together, bringing a thoughtful bottle of wine is a timeless gesture of appreciation. But with so many options out there, choosing the right one can be daunting. Rest assured, by following a few simple guidelines you can arrive with confidence — and with a bottle or two that your host will remember long after the last song plays and the final guest leaves.
The holidays aren’t just about what’s on the table — they’re about who’s gathered around it — raising a glass to the people who make life richer.
The food spread takes center stage during holiday gatherings, but the best wine pairing is sometimes more about the atmosphere than the menu. For large gatherings, versatile and crowd-pleasing wines are your best bet. Seek out wines like pinot noir from Sonoma County or barbera d’Alba from northern Italy. These wines are medium-bodied with balanced levels of ripe fruit and silky tannins. They complement everything from roasted poultry to savory stuffing. For the white wine crowd - an unoaked chardonnay from California or a dry chenin blanc from the Loire Valley in France are crisp, bright, and appealingly fresh wines. They exhibit floral and herbal aromas with approachable fruit flavors, and they delicately dance alongside lighter dishes or appetizers on the table. All of the below wines, at a variety of price points, are available at Sunrise Cellars located at 333 South Avenue E in Westfield.
If you’re attending a holiday cocktail party, a sparkling wine like champagne or cava instantly elevates the mood and pairs well with appetizers, cheeses, and conversation alike. For something a bit unexpected, try a rosé prosecco — it’s elegant, festive, and universally enjoyable.
1. Value Play: Avinyo Cava Brut Reserva $19.99
2. Under the radar: 90+ Lot 228 Cremant Brut d'Alsace $17.99
3. Splurge: Henri Billiot Champagne Reserve $69.99



A bottle of wine makes a beautiful standalone gift — but with a few simple additions, it can become a memorable basket that delights all the senses.
• Start with a wine and build a theme. Italian reds pair beautifully with gourmet pasta, sauces, and olive oil. A French rosé might shine alongside artisan cheese, crackers, and honey.
• Add small nuanced gourmet or luxury items. Include a candle, linen napkins, or handcrafted chocolates to make your basket feel indulgent.
• Balance flavors and textures. Pair a crisp white with roasted nuts, brie, or dried fruits. A bold and powerful red wine pairs exceptionally well with dark chocolate, aged cheeses, or savory charcuterie.
• What grows together goes together. Wine and olive oil go hand in hand and are complementary in many ways. One bottle of each in a gift basket provides the home chef with all the tools one needs to achieve the ultimate culinary experience. For a selection of curated high-quality extra virgin olive oils, check out Grove and Vine; a Scotch Plains family-owned business featuring new harvest small-batch olive oils with a global reach and premium giftable packaging (groveandvine.com).
• Include a personal touch. A handwritten tag or note about why you chose that particular wine adds warmth and authenticity and ties it all up for a memorable exchange.
This year, ensure your gifts say what words sometimes can’t: gratitude, joy, and the simple pleasure of good company. After all, the holidays aren’t just about what’s on the table — they’re about who’s gathered around it and raising a glass to the people who make life richer.








PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE
JONES
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these holiday drinks are guaranteed to bring a little extra cheer to your cup.

A luscious holiday cocktail with warming spices, rich texture, and a beautiful cinnamon garnish.
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 oz dark or spiced rum
• 3/4 oz cinnamon simple syrup
• 1 oz heavy cream
• 1 whole egg
• Dash of ground nutmeg
• Dash of vanilla extract
Garnish: cinnamon stick and a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon
Make Cinnamon Simple Syrup:
Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 mins, let cool, and strain. Store in the fridge.
Add rum, cinnamon syrup, cream, egg, vanilla, and a pinch of nutmeg to a shaker. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to emulsify the egg. Strain into a coupe or stemmed glass like the one in your photo. Top with a cinnamon stick across the rim and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon.
Optional: Add 1/2 oz chilled espresso for a coffee kick.


An ultra-creamy, chocolatey holiday drink with a hit of warm bourbon and a vanilla bean twist.


Optional garnish: grated dark chocolate, whipped cream, cinnamon



Set your schedule. Make an impact. Build a life you’re proud of.
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, cream, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until smooth and heated through. Add chopped dark chocolate and stir constantly until melted and silky. Lower heat if needed to avoid scorching. Remove from heat, then stir in bourbon. Taste and adjust sweetness or strength to your liking. Top with marshmallows. Add whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and shaved chocolate. Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne for spicy depth
Kid-friendly version: Omit bourbon and add peppermint extract or caramel syrup instead.
INSTRUCTIONS: CONTINUED >
Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?
Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction.
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A bright, elegant cocktail with a foamy top and a hint of holiday spirit.
• 2 oz gin
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 oz cranberry juice
• 3/4 oz lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1 egg white
Optional: splash of sparkling water or club soda
Garnish: fresh rosemary or thyme sprig
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to create the frothy top. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to get that smooth, foamy top. Add a small splash of sparkling water if you’d like a bit of fizz. Gently place a sprig of rosemary or thyme on top of the foam.
A warm, frothy, and festively spiced drink perfect for winter nights.
For the latte:
• 1 shot of espresso (or 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee)
• 3/4 cup milk
• 2 tbsp gingerbread syrup
• Whipped cream
For the gingerbread syrup:
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp molasses
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Optional toppings:
• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for dusting
• Marshmallow
• Crushed gingerbread cookie around the rim or on top
INSTRUCTIONS:
Make the gingerbread syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine water, brown sugar, molasses, and spices. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let cool. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Prepare the drink: Brew your espresso or strong coffee. Heat and froth your milk. In your glass, add 2 tablespoons of the gingerbread syrup. Pour in the espresso, then the steamed milk, stirring gently to combine. Spoon frothed milk or whipped cream on top. Dust with cinnamon or nutmeg.
Optional: Rim the glass with crushed gingerbread cookie crumbs for extra flair.











ARTICLE BY TERRY AZAD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CRAIG SMITH
STROLL DOWNTOWN TO FIND UNIQUE GIFTS AT THESE HIDDEN GEM MAIN
The holidays are a time for giving—and one of the most meaningful ways to give back is by shopping close to home. Supporting local retailers keeps our community vibrant and our downtown full of life. Local retailers offer something you can’t always find online or in big-box stores: personal service, curated selections, and genuine connection. Whether it’s a handcrafted gift, collectible from a vintage store shop, or a treat from the local bakery, these purchases carry heart and story.










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For a decade, Compass Schoolhouse has been a trusted partner in early childhood education. We’re proud of the community of families and little learners we’ve built. Discover why families recommend us! Setting the Course for a
OPEN HOUSE Saturday, January 3, 2026 Call for 25-26 availability
Preschool and Full-Day Kindergarten for Children Aged 12 Months to 6 Years - Extended Day Options Available -






NOVEMBER 29TH
Westfield | 9:00 AM
The Westfield Turkey Trot race day sponsored by Out Run Your Fork is happening on Saturday November 29th. Packet Pickup is on Friday November 28, 2025 from 2-5pm at Out Run York Fork studio at 500 Central Avenue in Westfield. Come early for some treats. Looking for volunteers to assist at the event to make the day a success so please sign up today!
DECEMBER 1ST
Fabios Bistro, Fanwood
Bring your wrapped presents to Fabios from December 1 - 18 in support of Toys for Tots and The SPF Rotary Club.
DECEMBER 6TH
Scotch Plains Public Library Meeting Room | 10:00 AM
December 6: Holiday Jewelry Sale hosted by Friends of the Scotch Plains Public Library. Come find beautiful and inexpensive holiday gifts at our jewelry sale, while supporting a great cause. Kids, this is the perfect place to shop for Mom!
DECEMBER 6TH
361 South Avenue E. in Westfield | 10:00 AM
Urban Sewciety is hosting its annual Holiday pop-up shop, featuring local makers and crafts people. This event will take place on Saturday, December 6th from 10:00AM to 4:00PM at our beautiful studio located at 361 South Avenue E. in Westfield, NJ. This event attracts HUNDREDS of local shoppers and is a sell-out event for some of our more popular repeat vendors.
DECEMBER 7TH
The Village Green | 7:00 PM
Please join friends and neighbors at the Annual lighting of the Town Christmas Tree and Menorah! This will be incorporated into the 12th Annual Winter Market featuring local vendors for holiday shopping! There will be live entertainment, food for purchase and even a visit from Santa!
DECEMBER 10TH
Visit The Christmas Tree House
Fanwood NJ
Visit the town's favorite light display in support of NJ Children with Disabilities. Drive past any time in the month of December with proceeds being awarded on December 19th.

