Scotch Plains, NJ March 2026

Compassionate In-Home Care with Dignity

24/7 Companion Care

Empathetic, licensed care for NJ seniors and adults. Whether it’s part-time help or 24/7 support at home or in a facility, Mom and Pap’s Home Care helps your loved ones live life to the fullest.

Personal Hygiene Assistance

Our certified caregivers create personalized plans tailored to your grooming needs. From bathing and dressing to incontinence care, we provide support with compassion and dignity.

Meal Planning & Preparation

At Mom and Pap’s Home Care, our caregivers provide meal planning and preparation and other services to ensure that you or your loved one has a healthy, balanced diet.

When your loved one needs support, you deserve a team you can trust. Compassionate care is just a phone call away.

It’s Good to be Home

The Home Issue of Scotch Plains City Lifestyle marks the one-year anniversary of our ownership of this community magazine. Over the course of the last twelve months our lives and hearts have grown to include so many new friends, neighbors, business owners and readers. What started out as a sisterly (and admittedly scary) adventure has turned into a calling. We live each day to create community, with intention. To purposefully and pro actively support the people and organizations investing in our community through our platform of stories, ads and digital media. We are proud of the publication that lands in your mailboxes every month - and get down right giddy, when we learn you too look forward to its arrival.  We could not do this without the support of our readership - or the investment and trust of our magazine partners. Thank you for inviting us into your homes and being a part of our story.

It's Good to be Home.

March 2026

CO-PUBLISHER

Veronica Kautz | veronica.kautz@citylifestyle.com

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

Custom Mattresses Handcrafted in Our Fanwood Showroom

Shovlin Mattress Factory creates comfort for the entire home. Each of our mattress collections is custom-made with high-quality, USA-sourced materials & built for bedroom upgrades, guest rooms, sleeper sofas, vacation homes, kids’ beds, pets (seriously!), & more. We offer an extensive selection of beds & accessories, so you can check off your whole list in one visit.

That same craftsmanship defines our signature Nirvana® mattress, built with all-natural Talalay latex to deliver exceptional pressure relief and support for undisturbed rest night after night.

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Five-Star Ratings Across All Major Online Review Platforms

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COMPASS SCHOOLHOUSE

Preschool And Full-Day Kindergarten For Children Aged 12 Months To 6 Years Extended Day Options Available

Compass SchoolHouse offers a play-based curriculum which develops cognitive, linguistic, and social-emotional skills, setting the course for a lifetime of learning. We provide a family-oriented community to nurture respect, kindness, and perseverance. Schedule a tour today and see why our families recommend Compass!

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Twirl on Into The Tutu School of Westfield

The magic of ballet is coming to town! On 2/2 (2026) The Tutu School Westfield will officially open its doors at its newest location, 509 Central Avenue in Westfield. Owned by local resident Taylor Weldon, a former professional dancer and franchise veteran, the studio focuses on nurturing creativity and confidence through movement and classical music. Offering a whimsical introduction to dance for children ages six months to eight years. Available for classes, parties, camp and more.

Global Excellence at Union Catholic High School in Scotch Plains

Union Catholic High School is proud to announce that its World Language educators have earned the prestigious Global Seal of Biliteracy. This international credential recognizes advanced proficiency in multiple languages, including Spanish, French, Mandarin, and more. This achievement directly benefits students, who can now earn the seal themselves to enhance college applications and future careers. By modeling lifelong learning, these multilingual teachers provide an inspiring environment where students grow as confident, globally-minded communicators ready to connect with the world.

Deanna Dell Bene wins the prestigious MLK Day of Service Award

Monday January 19th was a day for communities around the world to offer up service in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Locally, our community recognized the continuous service offered by Deanna Dell Bene with the SPF MLK Day of Service Award. Inspired by her mother, Deanna lives a life of service through her involvement in The FSP Rotary Club and local rescue squad to name a few.  Seen here with Fanwood Mayor Collen Mahr and Council Woman Gina Davis.

ARTICLE BY TERRY AZAD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EDWING HERNANDEZ

For the discerning homeowner, “spruce up” doesn’t mean cutting corners—it means curated, high-impact changes that elevate the aesthetic and functional flow of your living space.

The Weekend Refresh

Local Home Services Business Owners Five Quick and Easy High-Impact Projects to Transform Your Space, Your Home, Your Life.

When we think of home renovations, we often envision months of construction, dust-covered furniture, and endless contractor meetings. However, some of the most profound transformations can happen in a single weekend. For the discerning homeowner, "spruce up" doesn’t mean cutting corners—it means curated, high-impact changes that elevate the aesthetic and functional flow of your living space. From the warm glow of a hearth to the crisp lines of new window silhouettes, here is how to redefine your home in a week or weekend!

SHOWCASE THE HEART OF THE ROOM WITH A FIREPLACE FACELIFT

The fireplace is the natural focal point of any living area, yet it is often the most overlooked. If your hearth feels dated, a weekend renovation can restore its status as a design centerpiece. We talked to Christine Escribano, Owner and Lead Designer for Cherry Home Designs in Scotch Plains to get her take. Her expertise on the subject matter is evident by looking at the stunning show stopper she created for the Gupta family in Westfield, NJ. Using a paint pour method, Christine saved her client thousands of dollars by building a structure that could be painted versus buying a giant slab of porcelin. Here, she uses a paint pour to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. The effect is breathtaking.

Christine offers these tips to create a modern, luxury feel around your home fireplace.

• Masonry Makeovers: You can achieve a European-inspired look by over-grouting existing stone for an “Old World” effect. Alternatively, lime-washing brick can provide a chalky, historical texture that feels both fresh and timeless.

• Refined Metalwork: Applying a heat-resistant matte black paint to a tired brass insert can instantly modernize the entire unit.

• The Mantle Statement: If the mantle feels undersized, replacing it with a reclaimed timber beam or a custom-carved marble slab can instantly ground the room and provide a sophisticated stage for seasonal decor.

• Tile and Texture: Adding a bold, geometric cement tile or a hand-painted structural masterpiece (see picture!) to the hearth can introduce a new color palette and material interest without the need for a full demolition.

• Symmetry and Built-ins: To truly elevate the space, consider flanking the fireplace with custom floating shelves or wallpapering the alcoves on either side to add depth and draw the eye toward the center.

These projects deliver high-impact changes that elevate your living space while providing an immediate "Wow Factor".

The Finished Window

Instantly elevate your home with window treatments

Windows are often described as the eyes of the home—the canvas upon which the mood of a room is painted. Upgrading from standard slat blinds (or uncovered windows, gasp!) to custom, high quality window coverings is one of the most effective ways to transition a space from "functional" to "finished."

Blinds and shades are more than just a way to block the sun; they add a layer of texture and tie design elements together. Motorized woven wood shades, crafted from natural grasses or bamboo, introduce organic warmth. For a more classic, architectural look, elegant interior shutters—like the ones pictured here—provide a permanent, structured feel that enhances a home’s value.

We spoke with Steve Siegal, owner of The Blind Dept & More in Kenilworth, to understand why professional guidance is a gamechanger for homeowners. "Whether you like the natural look of bamboo woven shades, faux wood blinds, or an automated roller shade, a dressed window is going to elevate the appearance of your home," says Siegal.

However, many homeowners find the sheer number of options and the precision required for installation to be daunting. Siegal emphasizes that the process should be stress-free. "People don't have to worry about measuring and installing when The Blind Dept. will come to your house with sample product books and a measuring tape," he explains. A professional consultation allows for a curated selection that accounts for window size, frame depth, and light entry—details often missed when shopping online or buying from a box.

One of the fastest-growing trends is motorization. Imagine shades that automatically automatically adjust to protect furniture from UV damage following the movement of the sun. “You can look at hundreds of styles AND get a guaranteed perfect fit—all without leaving your home. Check it off your to-do list!” Siegal says with a smile. By investing in custom dressings, you aren't just covering a window; you are completing the room.

Transform Your Kitchen Cabinets With PaintNot Pain.

The Kitchen Cabinet Transformation

The kitchen is often considered the soul of the home, but a full-scale remodel can be an exhaustive and intrusive process. For homeowners looking to elevate their space without the months of construction dust, painting cabinetry has emerged as the ultimate designer "short-cut." By updating the color and swapping out dated hardware for modern silhouettes like brushed gold or handforged iron pulls, you can completely redefine the room’s light profile without moving a single appliance.

To understand why this project has become a staple of high-end home refreshes, we spoke with Jeff Plotkin, Owner of That 1 Painter in Morris Plains. According to Plotkin, the value lies in the efficiency and the immediate aesthetic return on investment.

"Cabinet painting is the ultimate 'smart' renovation," says Plotkin . "It is a high-impact, low-stress way to bring a dated kitchen into the modern era in just 3 to 5 days—at a fraction of the cost of new cabinetry. You’re getting a high-end, custom look that instantly increases your home’s value without the high-end price tag."

Achieving this high-end look requires more than just a brush and a bucket of paint; it demands a factory-level finish. Modern trends are leaning toward muted earth tones, deep charcoals, or sophisticated soft taupes that provide a timeless backdrop for culinary creativity. When executed professionally, the finish is durable enough to withstand the rigors of a busy kitchen while maintaining the smooth, luminous quality of brand-new installations.

By choosing to refinish rather than replace, you are not only saving time but also making a sustainable design choice that preserves quality woodwork. It is a masterful way to bridge the gap between classic architecture and modern style, ensuring your kitchen remains the centerpiece of your home for years to come.

THAT 1 PAINTER

Jeff Plotnick is the Owner of That 1 Painter, a local family-owned franchise business serving Union Essex, Morris, and Somerset Counties. He is proud to assist homeowners with any project - big or small - and is especially passionate about the expertise his team can bring to breathe new life into cabinetry. “We understand that cabinets are not just functional; they are a centerpiece in your home that can significantly influence your interior design”. Whether your cabinets are made of wood, laminate, or another material, That 1 Painters’ meticulous cabinet painting services are designed to protect, beautify, and enhance the longevity of your surfaces.

The Power of Exterior Lighting

TRANSFORM YOUR PROPERTY AND ILLUMINATE THE NIGHT WITH EXTERIOR LIGHTING UPGRADES

Your home’s first impression shouldn't fade when the sun goes down. Exterior lighting is an opportunity to elevate your home’s facade, creating its nighttime personality. While often viewed through the lens of utility, sophisticated lighting design is a transformative tool that balances security with high-end curb appeal.

To understand the impact of a well-lit exterior, we spoke with Carlos Rocha, Owner of High Class Electric in Garwood. For Rocha, the value of professional lighting extends far beyond simple visibility.

"Landscaping lights improve the security and overall look of any home," says Rocha. By strategically placing fixtures, you can highlight the architectural nuances of your home while simultaneously eliminating dark corners, creating a visual that is both grand and protected.

A weekend refresh moves beyond basic floodlights in favor of layered illumination. Consider path lights that guide guests with a soft amber glow or uplighting on mature trees to add dramatic height and texture to your landscape. Even a simple update—like replacing standard porch lights with oversized, architectural lanterns—creates an inviting transition from the outside world into your private retreat.

When you invest in quality lighting, you aren't just adding bulbs; you are extending the living space of your home into the evening hours, ensuring its beauty is on display 24 hours a day.

RECLAIM YOUR SPACE: TIME TO DECLUTTER!

True luxury is often found in what is not there. True transformation occurs when you get rid of the piles of stuff you know you will never use again. So toss it! Clutter is a visual weight that prevents a home’s architecture from shining. While a "ruthless edit" of your countertops or pantry can be done in an afternoon, larger spaces like basements, garages, and storage rooms often house years of accumulated "junk" that requires more than just a few trash bags.

To tackle these overwhelming areas, we spoke with John Valenti, Owner of Go Garbage. He notes that many homeowners stall on their refresh projects simply because they lack the "muscle" to move heavy items or the means to dispose of large-scale debris.

"Many people want to reclaim their space but don't know where to start with the heavy lifting," says Valenti. "Whether it’s clearing out a forgotten basement or hauling away debris from a recent demolition project, having the right manpower and equipment is key to a stressfree transformation."

Go Garbage provides the heavy-duty dumpsters and professional teams needed to clear out the bulk, allowing you to focus on the new found space. Once the unnecessary weight is removed, you can organize your remaining treasures into a gallery-like atmosphere where your favorite pieces can finally be noticed. By outsourcing the "junk" phase, you ensure that your home’s transition from cluttered to curated is both fast and efficient.

of compassionate leadership has made "The Mount" a home for students, families, and staff

A Mother To Us All

“She is not only a leader and a role model, but in every way that matters, a mother to all of us, uplifting our spirits and reminding us that we are loved.”

A mother is often the person who makes a house a home. This is exactly what Sister Lisa Gambacorto, RSM, Ed.S., has achieved over her 25 years as Directress of Mount Saint Mary Academy in Watchung, NJ. As the head of the esteemed all-girls Catholic high school, Sister Lisa serves as a beacon of mercy and compassion for staff, students, and families alike.

She guides the community with a unique blend of "no-nonsense" leadership and a nurturing determination. From the moment families arrive at “The Mount,” they recognize that their educational journey will be defined by the foundation of care she fosters. Under her guidance, anxious freshmen transform into confident women ready to take on the world.

This success is rooted in a culture of family. “The Mount is a unique place to learn and teach because of its strong sense of belonging,” Sister Lisa says. “We have made it the Mission of the school, not a byproduct. I treat people the way I want to be treated—with respect and kindness. You do not need to be detached or impersonal to run an effective learning environment.” She further explains that a faith-filled environment builds a foundation of trust that makes even difficult conversations easier.

The impact of this philosophy is best expressed by those she leads. Olivia Altobelli, a senior from Bridgewater, recalled a particularly difficult day when Sister Lisa offered a comforting hug and vital perspective. “She said, ‘Remember, Olivia,

strive for grace, not perfection. Allow yourself to breathe and remind yourself that God walks with you on this journey called life. Everything will be OK.’ This was not an exception - this is the norm. “Sister has always been someone I can rely upon,” Olivia continues. “She is not only a leader and a role model, but in every way that matters, a mother to all of us, uplifting our spirits and reminding us that we are loved.”

Assistant Directress Jacqueline Conti Muratore, a 2001 alumna, credits Sister Lisa with being a strong influence in her life. “Her leadership and example have made the Mount a second home,” Muratore shared. “Her unwavering dedication, tireless devotion to the Mercy Mission, sense of humor, and compassionate way of relating to others have inspired me and helped shape me into the woman I am today”.

For Mrs. Debbie Scotillo, a 1995 alumna and mother to two current Mount sophomores, Sister Lisa’s impact spans generations. “Home isn’t just a place; it’s where you feel supported and valued. This is exactly what Sister Lisa has created,” Scotillo noted. “Today, I see her leadership through a different lens—as a parent. Knowing my daughters are guided by the same values she taught me brings everything full circle.”

Sister Lisa Gambacorto has proven that an educator’s influence can transcend the classroom, creating a legacy of love and leadership that makes Mount Saint Mary Academy far more than just a school—it is a home.

admissions@unioncatholic.org

1600 Martine Avenue, Scotch Plains, NJ

IRISH EYES

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY ERIN BERDAN

SMILING ARE

Ditch the basic boil this St. Patrick's Day with two magically delicious recipes that will make everyone feel lucky!

Resident foodie Erin Berdan shares her favorite Irish dishes. Visit her Food Blog at www.WhitePlateBlankSlate.com

St. Patrick’s Day doesn’t have to mean a boiled pot of corned beef smothered in cabbage - although I personally find that unexpectedly satisfying! Elevate your menu with these two simple and satisfying dishes sure to make the lads and lasses in your life smile.

Corned Beef Hash: Corned Beef has a way of crumbling at the edges as you slice it. Those little bits of deliciousness can have many fates: they can be thrown away (gasp of horror!); they can be gobbled up as samples while you cut (not bad, but we can do better); Or they can be stored in a container for use in corned beef hash, topped with a delightfully oozy poached egg (oh yeah, we have a winner!) So why subject those meaty little bits to a lowly fate when you can send them out in a blaze of glory?

Leek and Potato Soup: A rustic, chunky version using my mom’s recipe. This soup is perfect for St. Patrick’s Day - or any cold day you need a cup of comfort. Serve it with a corned beef sandwich on rye and you’re all set!

Both dishes are quick and easy - and best served with a pint of Guinness.  Slainte!

LEEK AND POTATO SOUP

INGREDIENTS FOR 8 SERVINGS:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter

• 2 lb. leeks, white and pale green parts only, thinly sliced

• 6 cups chicken stock

• 2 lb. Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into ½-inch cubes

• Salt and white pepper, to taste

• 1 cup cream or half and half

DIRECTIONS FOR 8 SERVINGS:

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add leeks and sauté until they soften, 3-5 minutes.

2. Add the potatoes and chicken stock and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

3. Stir in the cream and season to taste with salt and pepper.

INGREDIENTS FOR 2 SERVINGS:

• 1 Tbsp. butter

• 1 medium potato, peeled and cut into small cubes

• ½ cup chopped corned beef

• 2 scallions, thinly sliced

• 2 eggs

DIRECTIONS 2 SERVINGS:

1. Melt the butter in pan over medium heat. Add the potato and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the potato is golden brown and cooked thru, about 10 minutes.

2. In another pan, poach the eggs. I use an egg poacher which takes about 2 minutes for a nice runny yolk.

3. Stir 2/3 of the scallions into the potato and corned beef mixture and cook for about 30 seconds.

4. To serve, divide the corned beef mixture on 2 plates and top each with a poached egg. Sprinkle with remaining scallions and serve immediately.

Mira Vie at Fanwood is located in the center of the quaint town of Fanwood and is within walking distance to the train, post office, restaurants and shops! With individualized plans and purpose-built communities, our uniquely comprehensive

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN JENKINS, AMANDA PROUDFIT

MID-CENTURY WARMTH, REIMAGINED

There’s a certain moment when a house stops feeling new and starts feeling like home. It isn’t marked by square footage or finishes alone. It is something quieter, more emotional. In this home, designer Kate Manz set out to do exactly that: give a newly built home a heartbeat and a soul.

Rather than treating the house as one sweeping statement, she approached each room as its own story, layered with meaning, memory, and texture. The result is a home that feels collected, personal, and deeply lived-in.

“Tackling each space and room as its own story and concept is how to make a new space feel personal,” Manz explains. “But bringing it all together cohesively is always the challenge.”

Her solution? Warmth, intention, and a strong belief in the power of people. In new builds it can take years for a home to shed its newness. For this project, the goal was to fast-track that sense of belonging by layering in pieces with history and heart. Vintage market finds, local artists, and meaningful objects play a starring role throughout the home.

“My love for design goes hand in hand with the people and stories that bring it to life,” she says. “I absolutely love seeing the evolution from concept to completion and all the elements and people that help bring those ideas to reality.”

That philosophy becomes especially important in the home’s expansive open-concept living area, where scale could easily overpower intimacy.

THE OPEN CONCEPT, REIMAGINED

The main living space is defined by bringing the outside in with sweeping outdoor views and generous proportions. Rather than fighting that openness, embrace it.

“The big open concept room really highlights the expansive outdoor views,” she says, “but making intimate spaces within that open room was really important.”

A layered niche wall, created in collaboration with the interior architect Nick Flower, brings both structure and softness to the room. It introduces texture, depth, and a place for unique objects and family heirlooms to live, turning negative space into a personal gallery.

ENTRYWAY: A WARM WELCOME

The entryway sets the tone with a simple but powerful goal: Welcome to my home.

Natural stone underfoot grounds the space, while a soft vintage rug and living greenery immediately soften the experience. Art with personal meaning invites guests to linger rather than rush through.

POWDER BATH: SMALL ROOM, BOLD SPIRIT

If there’s one place Manz encourages clients to take risks, it’s the powder room. Here, she leaned into terracotta earth tones, layering textures and tile sizes for visual interest and warmth. Patterned and solid tiles work together, while textured wall coverings and a sculptural stone sink elevate the space from functional to delightful.

LOUNGE: A STUDY IN CALM AND DEPTH

Designed as a counterpoint to the openness of the main living area, the lounge is a cocoon, both peaceful, layered, and deeply versatile. It’s a place for reading, movie nights and slow mornings.

Rich tones and varied textures do the heavy lifting here, creating depth without heaviness. Soft lighting and custom upholstery make the room feel both intentional and effortless.

At its core, this home is a reminder that design isn’t about perfection, but rather it’s about feeling. By treating each room as its own narrative while weaving in warmth, history, and human connection, a space was created that already feels loved.

PROJECT CREDITS

Builder - Buildwell

Architect and Interior Architect - Flower Architecture

Designer - Kate Manz

MARCH 6TH

St. Bartholomew’s Annual Men’s Cornerstone Retreat

Saint Bart’s Catholic Church: 2032 Westfield Ave., Scotch Plains

Join other men of faith in your community at the Cornerstone Retreat. This is a great opportunity to examine your relationship with God, family, and others in your life. A chance to be inspired, revitalized and spiritually uplifted in a relaxed atmosphere. Open to men of all ages. Please register at https://stbnj.org/mens-cornerstone

MARCH 12TH

SPFHS Spring Musical Presents Guys and Dolls

Scotch Plains Fanwood High School | 7:00 PM

Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School (SPFHS) Repertory Theatre presents the classic musical Guys and Dolls from March 12–15, 2026. Tickets for this 1950s New York-themed production, featuring gamblers and showgirls, are available now at spfhsrep.com. Show times are as follows: THURS. MARCH 12 at 7:00PM, FRI. MARCH 13 at 7:00PM, SAT. MARCH 14 at 7:00PM, SUN. MARCH 15 at 2:00PM

MARCH 13TH

St. Patrick’s Day Festival - Darby Road

Darby Road St Patrick's Day Celebration | 12:00 PM

Everyone is Irish on St. Paddy’s Day! Come join the fun at the tent with live music, Irish dancers, pony rides, face painting and all your favorite Irish food and beer! Festivities officially kick off at noon on Friday, March 13th through Monday, March 16th, leading into the public holiday on Tuesday, March 17th.