Scotch Plains, NJ November 2025

An Attitude of Gratitude

Ross & Calandrillo

Mount Saint Mary Academy

Casa by Cherry Home Designs

Caffrey Tree & Landscape

Dentalcare Associates

Out Run Your Fork

Family Investors Company

Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce

Union Catholic

Invisible Fence of Union County

Mary DePaola Real Estate

Bonomo & Sons

General Plumbing Supply

Saint Joseph High School  Spavia

High Class Electric

Joint Motion Physical Therapy

Wild Birds Unlimited

Magnolia Home Remodeling Group

Schuster Family Orthodontics

Brandywine Mountain Ridge

Air Aerial Fitness - New Providence Bee Kind Pediatrics

Memorial Funeral Home

Mira Vie

Mom and Pap's Home Care

Mosquito Joe

Rutgers Athletics

Cheers to our amazing partners! Join this growing network of inspiring businesses. Reach out today for advertising and editorial opportunities.

Terry.Azad@citylifestyle.com

Veronica.Kautz@citylifestyle.com

Living in Gratitude: My SPF

Gratitude. Thankfulness. My hope is that everyone reading this has many reasons to give it, feel it, and know it. I certainly do. Coming out of October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I am profoundly grateful for medical science, skilled doctors, my family and friends - and most of all, for life itself. In June 2023, I was diagnosed with Invasive Lobular Carcinoma, better known as Breast Cancer. Those words still feel surreal. It’s not a badge I ever wanted, but it’s one I now wear with pride. I am a Breast Cancer Survivor.

My Breast Cancer journey, though difficult, was filled with more love than sorrow, more hope than fear, and more support than I could ever have imagined. After several surgeries, and thanks to the incredible care of my medical team and the unwavering love of my family and friends, I am now celebrating my second year of being cancer-free.

No Blue Mountain card - no song written by Taylor Swift -  no Flash Mob gesture -  could ever fully express my gratitude - especially for my Sister, my Partner, and my best Friend, Terry. She cried with me, organized a support squad, fed my family, comforted my children, and constantly reminded me of love and strength. Terry was my Sanctuary, Pillar, and Foundation—my SPF—through every step of the journey. To her, I dedicate this letter of thanks.

Terry is also the heartbeat of this magazine, Scotch Plains City Lifestyle - your Super Publisher of editorial Features. She finds joy in celebrating your successes, cares deeply about your stories, and is always looking for ways to serve our community. But without YOU - our readers, our advertisers, our neighbors, our business owners - we could not share the stories that bond us or advocate for the businesses that make our town thrive. We are deeply grateful for your Support and Partnership and so very thankful to be part of this amazing community — you are truly the Foundation of what makes it thrive.

We are SPF.

With gratitude,

VERONICA KAUTZ, PUBLISHER

November 2025

PUBLISHER

Veronica Kautz | veronica.kautz@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Terry Azad | terry.azad@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Terry Azad, Veronica Kautz

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Chelsea Doyle of C Paige Photography, Photos by Craig Smith

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell Learn

city scene

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.

See Mira Vie!

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 professional support services are provided respecting our residents’ independence and integrity.

Our unique approach to executing projects includes pre-construction services, such as support during the design process.

Start your next project with us today.

business monthly

Urban Sewciety Celebrates 10 Years of Creativity and Community

Founded in 2015 by Megan Whitney and Meg Bulthaupt, Urban Sewciety has grown into a thriving sewing studio, retail shop, and community hub. Over the past decade, it has welcomed makers of all ages through classes, events, and its nationally recognized programs, Sewciety Kids and Studio M Squared. This past September, the Westfield community celebrated Urban Sewciety’s 10th anniversary with sales, giveaways, and plenty of fun honoring a decade of connection and creativity.

Friends of the Scotch Plains Public Library Unveils New Board

The Friends of the Scotch Plains Public Library, a nonprofit dedicated to enriching community life, has appointed a new leadership team. Christine Szeluga will serve as President, with Dan Marcus as Treasurer, Sara August as Secretary, and Lauren Marcus and Kristin Vassallo as Members-at-Large. The group thanks outgoing board members for their service and looks forward to hosting impactful community events this fall under its energized new leadership.

Kate Motz, Health Detective, Opens Functional Medicine Practice in Fanwood

Kate Motz, Functional Diagnostic Practitioner and National Board Certified Functional Medicine & Health Coach has opened her practice at 313 South Avenue in Fanwood. Kate’s mission is to help clients uncover and address what conventional medicine often misses: the why behind symptoms. Through advanced functional testing, personalized protocols, and a partnership built on trust, she will empower you with the answers traditional medicine often overlooks. To learn more visit www.katemotz.com or call 908.577.2445.  Office hours by Appointment.

A Grateful Community says Thank You

RECOGNIZING THE PEOPLE, BUSINESSES AND ORGANIZATIONS THAT PRIORITIZE SERVICE TO OTHERS WITH SELFLESS GENEROSITY AND KINDNESS

ARTICLE BY TERRY AZAD

PHOTOGRAPHY BY C PAIGE PHOTOGRAPHY AND AS NOTED

Tami Eagle Bowling

Creator of #LightUpMBC

Live

Tami Bowling is an inspiration. Diagnosed with incurable metastatic breast cancer (MBC) at the age of 41, she radiates only positivity and joy. I am in awe of her. A decade after defying her prognosis, Tami lives with purpose demonstrating the power of science and research and channeling her grief by fighting harder. She is a powerful advocate for those living with Stage 4, giving motivational speeches through her company, The Eagle Method and through her work with #LightUpMBC. Here she champions what is now hailed as the largest visual representation of awareness for MBC. Prominent landmarks across all 50 U.S. states, 20 countries and 176 cities illuminate in teal, green, and pink - the colors that represent Stage 4 (Teal for

spirituality & healing, green for hope and pink for breast cancer). This year’s #LightUpMBC landmarks include One World Trade Center (NYC), the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (OH), Matagarup Bridge (Australia), as well as our very own Township of Scotch Plains Building, and Fanwood Borough Hall (NJ). This happens annually on October 13th, National Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day, and it culminates in a global livestream event, #LightUpMBC LIVE featuring musical performances and inspiring patient stories. Tami is the Co-host of this event, and more impressively, the original Creator, now having raised over $2M in funding for Stage 4 breast cancer.  For her commitment to Faith over Fear, we say thank you Tami!

Ron and Kara Shovlin

Resident Do Gooders

Shovlin has been a household name in our community for over fifty years. A family business that is well regarded for their exceptional custom mattresses, customer service and witty ad campaigns. As funny as they are, Ron and Kara Shovlin’s commitment to giving back is serious and intentional. First, investing locally is a top priority. Not only have they maintained their mattress warehouse and showroom in Fanwood but they will soon launch a second Fanwood business - Beem Light Sauna - opening at the new Soho Development. Their generosity stretches far beyond local investments. Last year, they ensured comfortable rest for those who served by donating 100 mattresses to veterans at Valley Brook Village in Basking Ridge. This year, a percentage of mattress sales will benefit the NJ Chapter of Make-A-Wish, bringing dreams to life for children facing serious illnesses. Over the years, their commitment to breast cancer awareness has been unwavering, with thousands of dollars donated to the cause.

Ron and Kara collect pajamas and books for foster kids, and open their doors to Girl and Boy Scout Troops, offering tours that invariably end with joyful bouncing on beds. Their dedication to

sustainability and eco-friendly practices is equally profound. A proud partnership with One Tree Planted, a non-profit dedicated to combating global deforestation, sees a tree planted along the Appalachian Trail for every wood product sold. To date, Ron and Kara are directly responsible for over 11,000 trees planted. A few years ago, they embraced solar energy, powering their operations with clean energy. They also bear the cost of recycling every mattress they take away and collaborate with the local Green Team. For their commitment to making their community and the world a better, more comfortable place, we say “Thank you Ron and Kara Shovlin!”

Bill Picard

Scotch Plains Fanwood Community Ambassador

As the Moderator of the Scotch Plains Fanwood Neighbors Facebook page, Bill Picard is responsible for fostering a sense of community and town pride in the place we can all be found: on social media. Bill took over as Moderator in 2023 with 1,000 followers. Today it has over 23,000. Bill’s ability to maintain decorum in open discourse is a reflection of his even temperament. He is respectful, objective, and most importantly, informative. Born and raised in Scotch Plains, Bill has chosen to raise his own family here calling it “the best place to live”. He is Chairman of the Town Environmental Commission. Treasurer of the Scotch Plains Public Library and a member of the Green Team. He can often be found roller skating around town, enjoying coffee at Blackdrop and posting hilarious messages from scammer accounts trying to worm their way into the group. And for that, we say Thank you Bill!

Riley Yau

Community Over Self

By the time this goes to print Fanwood native Riley Yau will be at basic training in Fort Jackson, SC as he prepares to enter the Army.  A recent VoTech graduate, Riley spent the better part of his high school years volunteering at both the Fanwood and Scotch Plains’ Rescue Squads. In all, he logged over 2,500 hours serving as an EMT and caring for the people of our community during their times of need. As Vice President of the Fanwood Rescue Squad, Riley brings his generation’s perspective to ensure longevity in the organization. Riley shares that he was hooked after his first shift, working alongside “The Tuesday Crew” while also getting EMT certified. With his sights set on becoming a nurse, Riley carries a heart of service - dedicated to the community over himself. Thank you Riley!

Eugene Raphael Oppido

Carpool Tech Support

Eugene Oppido, aka “Mr. Tech,” is a trusted local business owner providing expert IT support…with a smile! A personal touch in IT is already a rarity, but Eugene’s friendly demeanor makes technology less intimidating for everyone. He intentionally keeps his rates accessible, and often provides free counsel for easy fixes. Eugene uses his drive-time for live tutorials on common tech issues, later posted to social media. He also uses this platform to raise awareness around community matters including road safety and supporting elderly residents. To that end, he offers safe-computing classes for seniors, often the target of scammers. He even fixed impacted smartphones and computers for free after the recent flooding. For his genuine kindness, we say “Thank You!”

Frank Lettera

Fund Raiser & Summer Fun Starter

June 20th marks the first day of summer for most, but in Scotch Plains–Fanwood, the season begins with Patrick’s Downtown Race to Summer—a 5K Family Fun Run created to honor Patrick Allocca. Nearly 25 years ago, longtime resident Frank Lettera lost his nephew Patrick at only 31 years old. In 2010, Frank organized the first race at Oak Ridge Park with just 45 participants, donating all proceeds to The Center for Hope. What began as a small tribute has grown into one of New Jersey’s largest nonprofit races. This year, Frank raised more than $50,000 and welcomed nearly 1,000 runners and families. With 100% of proceeds reinvested locally, the race has funded scholarships for local students and financial aid across a variety of community needs. Thank you Frank!

The American Red Cross

On July 14, torrential rains caused significant and devastating flooding in Scotch Plains and the surrounding areas. With homes and businesses affected, American Red Cross disaster volunteers went door-to-door offering relief. Together with Scotch Plains Police they installed a fixed station for two days at SPF High School, where impacted residents could collect clean-up kits, water, relief supplies and a warm meal. All together, Red Cross volunteers distributed more than 3,000 clean-up kits to help 1,200 families across three counties.  They served 7,800 meals and along side community partners, provided 49 overnight shelter stays.  Over 150 families with destroyed or severely damaged homes also received direct financial assistance. Red Cross disaster responders and caseworkers worked

more than 13,500 volunteer hours to bring comfort and care to those affected by the flooding.  “I was proud to serve alongside our team of Red Crossers who mobilized to provide relief to the many families impacted by the flood event this summer,” said Kim Goetz, Executive Director, American Red Cross of Central New Jersey. “Despite seeing the pain and grief so many felt as they faced the reality of cleaning up their homes and navigating loss, we also witnessed resilience, a strong sense of community, and hope. We are grateful for the quick and efficient collaboration with officials from Scotch Plains Township, Union County, and other local organizations to provide our mission services and connect those affected with additional programs offered by our partners.”  Thank you Red Cross!

Plan the Next Step: UC

Admissions Checklist

Everything you need to know this month to keep your student’s UC application on track

Attend Fall Open House on October 15th or 25th

Attend an Info Session for Distinguished Scholars or Freshman Foundations on November 12th at 7 pm

Attend the Benefits of a UC Education Breakfast on November 22nd at 9 am

Take the UC Scholarship Exam on November 22nd or November 23rd

Finalize your Union Catholic Application (Deadline is December 1st)

Admissions

Scan the QR Code to view our website, complete our online Inquiry Form, or call 908-889-1600 Ext. 302

We Appreciate You, Fabios

ARTICLE BY TERRY AZAD

You will be hard pressed to find two nicer human beings than Greg Kowalczyk and Ronnie Vojka, owners of Fabio’s Bistro in Fanwood, NJ.  It is impossible not to like them.  Adore them, really.  They are a constant presence for the families of our community, whether it be pizza night, or a backyard graduation party; Daily lunch or a special dinner. No matter when you visit Fabios, you will find Greg and Ronnie.  And you will find them smiling.

“WE STARTED BY ASKING FOR THE COMMUNITY’S TRUST, THEN EARNING IT, AND NOW KEEPING IT”

by C Paige Photography

They are the heartbeat of this small town pizza joint that, over time, has become exponentially larger.  Not in size or space - but in presence.  They seem to be at every town function as a sponsor, contributor, host, or benefactor. Their list of regulars gets longer by the day, and the pile of bikes outside the front gets bigger every summer.  The stories around their acts of kindness, from simple gestures to large scale impact, are countless. Interestingly, it is their own gratitude that fuels the generosity they eagerly share back with our community.  Greg and Ronnie famously tell their customers “I appreciate you”.  Well, this is our turn to say it back.  We appreciate you Greg and Ronnie. We are grateful for you, Fabios.

It started in 2017 when Ronnie, a lifelong resident of Staten Island, bought the existing Fabios. And while he didn’t change the name, he would eventually change just about everything else. But not alone. As a local resident, and recently retired police officer, Greg quickly became a trusted advisor. They met in the back of the kitchen and have been best friends ever since.  “Brothers actually,” says Ronnie. In 2019 they solidified their partnership as co-owners of Fabios, sharing their families and lives - and a common goal:  To make Fabios a place “where friends become family”.   And so it began. A transformation that had Ronnie practically living in the kitchen, adding new menu items and creating a new sauce recipe that stands on its own. Every single order that entered the kitchen went through Ronnie before exiting. Meanwhile, Greg introduced fresh ideas and new processes to ensure a positive customer experience. He leveraged his connections to help

spread the word about Fabios, and soon it became a local favorite of community police, fire, rescue and other service organizations.  “We started by ASKING for the community’s trust, then EARNING it, and now KEEPING it,” says Greg. “It is only right we serve the community back”.

Serving the community back feels like an under-statement. Over the years Fabios has sponsored numerous SPF sports teams and donated both money and food to a variety of charitable organizations. They consistently support the Fanwood-Scotch Plains Rotary Club, and Fanwood Rescue Squad with fundraisers, and go out of their way for local police and fire departments. This was evident recently when the Fanwood Fire Department was allowed to perform live simulation exercises at Fabio’s future business site, prior to the building’s scheduled demolition, after which they were well fed!  They also sponsored the PBA fundraiser for fallen Officer Carlos Gonzalez and for the second year in a row, became the NJ dinner stop for “Race for Remembrance”. Here, dozens of runners travel 485 miles in honor of the victims of 9/11 raising money for the Towers to Tunnel Foundation.  Not only do they feed the runners but they donate personally while also raising funds from the community.  So many organizations have benefited from Fabios, including Fanwood’s Famous Christmas House (fundraiser for NJ Institute for Disabilities), the College Club of Fanwood/Scotch Plains, SMAC Down Cancer, Knights of Columbus, Center for Hope, Toys for Tots, and Preserve Shady Rest (to name a few!)

When Greg and Ronnie know there is a need, they literally feed it.  After the recent floods and power outages they gave free pizzas to anyone without power. During Covid, Fabios provided pizzas every week to kids who were previously receiving free lunch at school. And if a kid on a bike doesn’t have any money to eat with their friends, they’re getting a slice anyway.  “We would never let a kid not eat,” says Ronnie.

The duo’s commitment to our community has made them more than a local restaurant.  They know most of their customers by name and have watched our children grow up.  They have served trays of food at parties, events, weddings and funerals. Even their investment in a new location (across the street) is embedded in their desire to service their customers better. “We don’t want anybody waiting for a pizza” an issue they have contended with due to their popularity.

The new location will have 160 seats and a bar.  It will remain affordable and comfortable. A place where “friends become family”.  Yes please! And thank you. From all of us in the community - we appreciate you.

LOCAL RESIDENT AND MICHELIN TRAINED CHEF DAVID KIRSCHNER BRINGS HIGH END DINING TO YOUR HOME

Yes Chef!

ARTICLE BY TERRY AZAD | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Have you ever seen a Real Housewives episode where one of the ladies hosts a dinner party at their home? Drama aside, the tables are always beautifully set and the chef is delivering exquisite plates of food. Professional bartenders serve cocktails and champagne - and there is never a dirty dish left behind. I’ve always been curious about how to obtain this level of luxury and customization as an option for a special event…until I met my neighbor David.

In the world of private dining, few names evoke the same sense of luxury, creativity, and personalization as dineDK, the brainchild of acclaimed chef David Kirschner. Founded on the belief that memorable meals are born from both exceptional food and genuine connection, dineDK transforms ordinary gatherings into unforgettable culinary experiences—whether in a private home, corporate space, or exclusive venue. As the visionary behind dineDK, David Kirschner brings over two decades of experience to your dining table. After earning a B.S. in Culinary Nutrition from Johnson & Wales University, David honed his skills in some of the country’s top kitchens, including Michelin-starred restaurants, working alongside high-profile chefs like Thomas Keller, Daniel Boulud and local favorite, David Drake. His passion for food is rivaled only by his commitment to hospitality. With dineDK, he merges fine dining with a warm, approachable style that makes every guest feel special.

What sets dineDK apart is its fully customized, client-first approach. There are no set menus—each dining experience is tailored to the client’s tastes, dietary needs, and event vision. From intimate dinners for two to elegant soirées for 100+, every detail is carefully curated: multicourse tasting menus, interactive chef stations, wine pairings, and even in-home cooking classes. Kirshner collaborates closely with clients to design menus that reflect not just preferences, but personality and story.

But David built dineDK for other reasons too. If you’ve ever watched a reality chef or cooking show, you know that restaurants and kitchens can be high stress environments often requiring around-the-clock commitment from chefs and kitchen staff. David saw an opportunity to build a business and brand that also created flexible opportunities for the chef community. He has curated a team of Michelin-trained chefs along with sommeliers, event planners and trusted partners to transform ordinary gatherings into unforgettable culinary experiences.

David’s passion for food, artistry, and meaningful connections is at the heart of dineDK. It’s not just about what’s on the plate—it’s about how people feel around the table. With rave reviews and a loyal following throughout the Tri-State area and beyond, dineDK continues to set the standard for luxury private dining.

For those seeking more than just a meal, but a true culinary journey, dineDK delivers.

H O P E

Begins with YOU A SEASON TO

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.

Tips on meal prepping for less stress

ARTICLE BY ALISON STANTON

Let’s face it: hosting Thanksgiving dinner can be stressful.

Between grocery shopping, house cleaning, cooking and baking, it’s no wonder the day devoted to giving thanks can feel a tad daunting.

Here’s some very welcome good news: whether this is your first holiday hosting rodeo or you’ve stuffed many a turkey over the years, you can knock out most of the Thanksgiving meal prep work in advance – some of it two weeks before the big day.

To make this year’s Thanksgiving meal easier and more enjoyable, consider the following timeline of tips.

2 WEEKS BEFORE

Create Your Thanksgiving Menu

• Print out the recipes you plan to use – this will be much easier than constantly tapping your phone to prevent the screen from going dark or scrolling when your hands are covered with flour or onions.

• Using your menu and printed out recipes as a guide, compose a complete shopping list.

• Double check your supply of herbs and spices to see what you have on hand –even the ones you are pretty sure you have enough of, like salt and pepper (this tip comes from personal experience!).

• Shop for all non-perishable and frozen food items. Basically, if it doesn’t need to be stored in the fridge, or if it doesn’t have a short shelf life, it’s going in the cart.

• Plan three easy and tasty dinners for the days leading up to Thanksgiving and purchase those ingredients during your shopping trip. Or plan at least one night of takeout.

4-5 DAYS BEFORE

Clean & Organize, Buy Fresh Groceries

• Clean your home completely, enlisting family members to help. Then, as the big day approaches, you can touch up as needed.

• Finish your grocery shopping for fresh vegetables like potatoes, onions and carrots and other items not purchased earlier.

• Go through your fridge and toss any old, expired condiments, leftovers and mysterious food items that no one is eating. This will free up valuable real estate for your various dishes.

2-3 DAYS BEFORE

Prep Meals & Set the Table

• Wash and chop all veggies and place the prepped produce into plastic baggies or airtight food storage containers. If some recipes call for “minced onion” and others require “chopped onion,” label the bags accordingly.

• Set the table, and include the empty serving dishes. This will help you figure out ahead of time where the larger dishes can go (and if they will all fit!) Add Post-It notes to the empty dishes to remind you what will go in what. Use a clean sheet to cover everything and keep it all dustfree until Thursday. You can also do this for a buffet.

• Gather all needed serving spoons and other serving pieces.

• Pre-measure herbs and spices for your recipes and store them in labeled small plastic bags with the name of the dish they are for and what’s in the baggies. You can also do the same for any flour, sugar or other non-perishable ingredients you’ll use in your dishes.

1 DAY BEFORE

Tidy, Prepare Dishes & Drinks

• Do a quick clean and tidy around the home; for instance, run the vacuum and shine up the bathrooms.

• If you haven’t already done so, bake your pies, or, at the very least, prepare your pie dough. Wrap the dough in plastic and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble and bake the pies.

• Make the mashed potatoes. Bonus tip: on Thanksgiving, put the potatoes into a slow cooker and heat them up using the “warm” setting.

• Prepare the gravy. If you have a second slow cooker, it too can be warmed up this way on Thanksgiving. This will also help free up pots, pans and burners on the stove!

• Set up a separate drink station where guests can help themselves or someone can serve them away from the kitchen. Stock it with glasses of different sizes, napkins, bottle and can openers and straws.

Meet Craig Smith

SCOTCH PLAINS CITY LIFESTYLE SAYS THANK YOU TO STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER CRAIG SMITH

At Scotch Plains City Lifestyle we are grateful to the team that helps us publish a beautiful magazine every month. The “Gratitude Issue” is the perfect opportunity to thank Staff Photographer, Craig Smith, for bringing his artistic talents to our publication.

ARTICLE BY TERRY AZAD PHOTOGRAPHY BY CRAIG SMITH

A little about Craig. First, you cannot walk around town with him without someone recognizing him, knowing him, and wanting to speak to him. He is lowkey famous. His passion for photography started in his youth, taking pictures that would only get developed “when “mom did too”. “I’ve always been drawn to the human experience—the unspoken emotions, subtle interactions and stories that unfold in the space between words,” he says. Craig’s passion evolved into a craft that he practiced “on the side” until 2020 when he made a life decision “to bet on himself” and pursue photography full-time. Today, PhotosbyCraigSmith, specializes in headshots, corporate branding, family portraits, and weddings. “Photography has always been more than just images; it’s about storytelling, connection, and making people feel at ease in front of the lens”. To that end Craig works to make every session an experience that feels natural and enjoyable. “I find the best photographs come from real moments, from genuine expressions and unscripted interactions.”

To learn more about Craig and see his portfolio, visit his Instagram @photosbycriagsmith and send inquiries to photosbycraigsmith@gmail.com