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Spread the LOVE This Holiday Season!

D E C E M B E R 2 022

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December 2022 PUBLISHER S

LIFESTYLE LETTER

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year Nothing compares to the pure magic of the holiday season. While the hustle and bustle of decorating, shopping and a packed social calendar are certainly exhausting, there’s also an excitement in the air that consumes the month of December. During the holidays we often try to replicate what made the season feel so magical to us in our youth. The traditions we set for our own families often mirror some of what we experienced as a child. On page 42, Liz Polo, owner of Havana Photography, tells us about a fun New Year's Eve tradition that she melded together from her family’s Cuban and Peruvian roots. This year when the clock strikes midnight, I’ll have 12 grapes in one hand — and, of course, a glass of Champagne in the other. In my large Italian family, the Feast of the Seven Fishes on Christmas Eve is the main event of the season. While I’m not personally a master chef in the kitchen, cooking large quantities of food — and subsequently eating large quantities of food — is the Italian way. As a child, I’d complain about being held hostage at the dinner table for over four hours as each course was served, but as an adult, I’ve learned to treasure this family tradition. Later in the evening, we like to have a little fun with a visit from Santa. As the kids have gotten older it’s been harder to hide which uncle is mysteriously missing from the room upon Santa's arrival, but they still play along. I always remind my girls that you have to believe to receive. In this issue, our goal is to help you create a crowd-pleasing holiday meal. On page 36, Nick Mavraj, owner of Blu Crête Bistro, shares his favorite fish and steak recipes. After you've cooked up your main course, turn over to page 32 for dessert. Basking Ridge resident Akanksha Behari of CakeOholic provides a recipe for a delectable lava cake and another recipe for adorable holiday cupcakes. Just writing this publisher letter makes me excited for all the fun that is in store for us this month. From our family to yours, Happy Holidays!

Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@citylifestyle.com Tiffany Slowinski | tiffany.slowinski@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Patti Zielinski | patti.zielinski@citylifestyle.com INTER N

Grace Spencer AD DESIGNER

Rachel Chrisman LAYOUT DESIGNER

Eva Tucker CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Isabella Bayantemur, Nancy A. Ruhling, Grace Spencer CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Helen Lawler (InspiorMX), Liz Polo (Havana Photography), MuSen Photos by Karen Kwong

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

The Slowinski Family, Jake, Tiffany, Bella, Hannah, Charlotte & Violet TIFFANY & JAKE SLOWINKSI, PUBLISHERS @ B R I D G E WAT E R _ S O M E R S E T_ H I L L S

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/SOMERSETHILL S |

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise Proverbs 3:5-6 Somerset Hills City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Somerset Hills area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Somerset Hills City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Real talk! Visit my Website

www.marieyoung.net

Marie Young Sales Associate 908.938.2525 Cell

Then Click Market Watch

for the latest in-depth report by town. Call for a complimentary consultation.

At press time, October 31st, interest rates are hovering on average around 7% for a 30-year fixed rate loan.

Interestingly, using GSMLS data:

As October ends, there continues to be more buyers than homes available in our area. This is unlike national news reports of rapidly swelling inventory, and bodes well for our local market so far. The following summarizes currently available homes for sale as of today, compared to those that went under contract since 9/22, the day of the last Fed hike.

Basking Ridge: 41 homes are available on the market 36 homes went under contract since 9/22 Bernardsville:

28 homes are available on the market 14 homes went under contract since 9/22

Bedminster:

21 homes are available on the market 16 homes went under contract since 9/22

We are averaging less than a two month supply of available homes. A six-month supply is considered to be the balance point of buyer vs. seller market. Crowd-pleasing homes are still faring well when priced right, with minimal deferred maintenance. For a full and complimentary analysis of your home, don't hesitate to call me on my cell at 908.938.2525. Even if you're just thinking of moving, Think Young! ©2022 Coldwell Banker Realty. All rights reserved. Coldwell Banker Realty fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by a subsidiary of Realogy, the logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Realty. Not intended as a solicitation if your property is already listed by another broker. Information may be reliable, but not guaranteed. GSMLS is the source of numbers. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker are independent contractors, sales associates, not employees.

Coldwell Banker Realty 1 So. Finley Avenue

Basking Ridge, NJ 07920 Office: 908.766.0808

DECEMBER 2022

inside the issue The Holiday & Giving Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

20 All that Glitters

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Local Experiences

Fashion Forward

Self Care

Culinary Creations

Chef ’s Selection

FO O D + B EV E R AG E

Local Limelight

ENT ERTA I NM E N T

Legal Compass

Giving Back

Events

Realty Report

To Sarah Sockolof of Simms Jewelers, Legacy Pieces Are Family Storytellers

26 Power of Positivity

Gina Barbara Channels Positive Energy in a Quest to Help Others Heal

32 For the Love of Cake

In Akanksha Behari’s Kitchen, Creative Cakes Are the Star Attraction

46 Joy to the World

Lepp, Mayrides & Eaton Attorneys Share Their Favorite Holiday Traditions

O N T H E C OV E R

Tirisi Leather Bracelets at Simms Jewelers express the perfect emotion for the holiday season: Love.

ST YLE + B E AU TY

HEA LT H + WELLNES S FO O D + B E V E R AG E

PR O FES S I O NA L SE RV IC E S

LI FE + C U LT U R E

R EA L ESTAT E

YOUR SPACE IS A PLACE TO REFLECT YOUR PASSIONS, YOUR STYLE AND HOW YOU RELAX

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DECEMBER 2022

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

2 7 5

1-7: Barry’s

Appliance & Somerset Hills City Lifestyle celebrated a networking night. Photography by Liz Polo, Havana Photography

CONTINUED >

C I T Y SC E N E

CIT Y SCENE CONTINUED

NATURE AT HEART SCHOOL

DOWNTOWN BERNARDSVILLE MUSIC IN THE SOMERSET HILLS

LIZ POLO, HAVANA PHOTOGRAPHY

SOMERSET COUNTY LIBRARY

LIZ POLO, HAVANA PHOTOGRAPHY

8-9: Barry’s Appliance & Somerset Hills City Lifestyle celebrated a networking night. 10: Boutique Calia is opened with a new look at Bernardsville Centre. 11: Music in the Somerset Hills presented Mozart on the Meadow in Bedminster. 12: Nature at Heart School held a Fall Equinox event. 13: Samantha Rafalowski read to therapy dog Bella at the Somerset County Library.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @bridgewater_somerset_hills

C I T Y SC E N E

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DECEMBER 2022

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses. Somerset County Business Partnership Announces Economic Vitality Award Recipients The Somerset County Business Partnership has recognized Iron Peak Sports & Events and MAINGEAR as recipients of the 2022 Economic Vitality Awards, recognizing their business growth and leadership in enhancing the economic competitiveness of Somerset County. Iron Peak Sports & Events is a state-of-the-art sports and events destination in Hillsborough. MAINGEAR is a high-performance PC system integrator that offers custom desktops, notebooks and workstations.

County Residents Curb Hunger The Somerset County Recycling Division collected 12,000 pounds of food for Curbing Hunger Inc. during “Curbing Hunger Month.” Residents can continue donating to the Food Bank Network of Somerset County by placing non-perishable items in a plastic bag with the word “food” on it and leaving the bag at the curb with their recyclables on their pickup days.

CONTINUED >

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New Vision for Lord Stirling Park The Somerset County Park Commission’s Lord Stirling Stable Advisory Group and county planning professionals presented the Somerset County Board of Commissioners with a new vision for the future of Lord Stirling Park. The comprehensive proposals will reopen the stable, expand facilities and connect existing resources in support of the county’s “parks for all” goals while supporting environmental and historic sites tourism.

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DECEMBER 2022

local experiences The best places and things to do in our area.

Experience the tastes, sounds and sights of what our area has to offer this season. We curated a list of ways to celebrate the holidays and usher in the new year in our city. Enjoy!

Winter Celebrations BR IDGEWATER COMMONS: Visit Santa at Bridgewater Commons Mall. 400 Commons Way, Bridgewater ENVIR ONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER : Enjoy holiday music and relax while viewing the Festival of Trees. 190 Lord Stirling Rd., Basking Ridge WINTER WONDER LIGHT: Get a fun head start into the holidays with the perfect light show drive-through at WinterWonderlight. 655 Cranbury Rd., East Brunswick LEHIGH JUNCTION: Experience a fun day in a recreated Polar Express train. 99 Elizabeth St., Phillipsburg R ED MILL MUSEUM: Revel in the sights and sounds of the holidays at Winter Village at the Red Mill Museum. 56 Main St., Clinton

Scan for more photos and the full list.

Environmental Education Center

Want to recommend a local experience? Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.

LOCA L E X P E R IE N C E S

ALL THAT GLITTERS

WHO COLE LEWIS, SARAH SOCKOLOF, DEBBIE WILLIAMS, JERRY BECK, AND NICKY THE DOG WHAT SIMMS JEWELERS WHERE BEDMINSTER, SIMMSJEWELERS.COM

FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AUTY

TO SARAH SOCKOLOF OF SIMMS JEWELERS, LEGACY PIECES ARE FAMILY STORYTELLERS ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIZ POLO, HAVANA PHOTOGRAPHY

Sarah Sockolof knows the magic of family legacies—and how stories are often told through treasured items. For her, it is her grandmother’s gold medallion that she wears on a gold chain. Inscribed on the front are her grandmother’s initials; on the back is the acronym “ILYMWEPY” (“I love you more with every passing year”). “The medallion is often flipped over to the acronym, so I’m always being asked what it means. This is so nice because it allows me to tell the story and think of my grandmother,” she says. “That is what having a piece of jewelry that spans generations is all about: It keeps your loved one ever-present in your daily life.” As the owner of Simms Jewelers, Sockolof is honored to play a role in helping families with their own legacy pieces, whether it is selecting new jewelry, modifying a piece such as resizing a ring, or maintaining or repairing a treasured piece. “This is my favorite part of the job: To be involved with jewelry that will be passed along from generation to generation,” she says. Simms Jewelers, based in a century-old former home in Bedminster, is a family legacy in its own right. Founded in 1953 in New Brunswick by Sid and Mae Sockolof and next led by their son, Arthur Sockolof, Sarah’s father, the store moved to Bedminster in 1985. “We are in our

third generation, though my father is now semi-retired,” she says. “We have a wonderful, experienced staff. Our jeweler Gerald Beck— everyone knows him as ‘Jerry’—has been with us for 30 years.” With a focus on high-quality, timeless designs that can be cherished today and passed down for generations to come, Sockolof seeks pieces at the intersection of trend and timelessness. “We have access to not only the world’s finest pieces of jewelry but also to its most talented and committed craftspeople. With partnerships that span from the Netherlands to Italy, one of our best vendors is in Secaucus, New Jersey.” Paramount to the family business is the relationship that it establishes with customers, both existing and new. In the Sockolofs’ opinion, the key to retail jewelry longevity is knowing and listening to the client and their needs. “We take the time to find out more about who the customer is, who they are buying for and what is most important to them. Getting to know clients is one of the aspects I enjoy most about this job. I love our clients. They are well-traveled, interesting and generous,” Sockolof says. “It’s a privilege to be able to greet most of the people who walk through our door by name.” View timeless designs at simmsjewelers.com.

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1. 2.

1. Tirisi Leather Bracelets: Versatile leather bracelets with a variety of 18k and sterling silver accents 2. Victor Mayer Locket: Heart locket with an enameled twist: 18k yellow gold and peppered with diamonds 3. Tirisi Pavé Earrings: Pavé-set circle studs in 18k white gold 4. PeJay Amethyst Earrings: Pear-cut amethyst earrings shrouded by tiny pink sapphires in 18k rose gold

FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AUTY

8. 5. Oscar Heyman Ruby Necklace: Ruby and diamond necklace in an invisible platinum and 18k yellow gold setting 6. FOPE Necklaces: “Tiny Eka” necklace in 18k gold with a pavé diamond-accented rondelle at the center 7. Picchiotti Bracelet: 234 round diamonds and set in 18k yellow and white gold 8. Oscar Heyman Bands

D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/SOM E R S E T HI L L S

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A P O T H E C A R Y L U P A

P OW E R OF POSITI V ITY 26

S ELF CA R E | HEALTH + WE LLNE S S

GINA BARBARA CHANNELS POSITIVE ENERGY IN A QUEST TO HELP OTHERS HEAL ARTICLE BY NANCY A. RUHLING PHOTOGRAPHY BY HELEN LAWLER, INSPIORMX

It was a freak accident. Gina Barbara was driving in Bernardsville when a cement truck flipped over and its barrel-like mixer rolled up and over her car, pinning her to a wall of rock. Her injuries—a shattered pelvis and a broken femur and ribs—took a year and five surgeries to heal. “It was,” she says, “a turning point for me.” Barbara felt the shift as she learned to walk again, transitioning from a wheelchair to a walker to a cane to her own power. “I started searching for therapies and wellness products that would help me,” says Barbara, who grew up in Bedminster and lives in Chester with her husband, Mike Rulle, and their 4-year-old daughter, Alba. “I started studying philosophy. I have a degree in psychology, and I began studying it more.” To assuage the intense physical pain (she still has a screw in her hip), she strove to maintain a positive attitude. Although she had been working in the restaurant industry, she decided that once she recovered, she would help others who needed healing. She took a job at a VA hospice, where she provided recreational therapy. Alba’s birth took her down a different path, and after staying at home to care for the newborn, a year ago, she opened Lupa Apothecary, a community wellness center in Bernardsville. “I always had a dream to open my own place, but the timing was not right. I decided to open the store after shopping local in Bernardsville and met Christina Gianni from B boutique, who gave me the opportunity to start Lupa small — as a pop-up in her store — and learn from other women who were doing the same thing,” she says.

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S ELF CA R E | HEALTH + WE LLNE S S

P O S I T I V I T Y

The shop—“Lupa” refers to the she-wolf of Roman mythology who raised the twin brothers Romulus and Remus, and the apothecary is a traditional place of healing—that sells everything from herbal supplements and lunar calendars to essential oils and spiritual-themed artwork. “The products are an accumulation of ones that helped me while I was recovering from the accident,” Barbara says. “Most of them are from small, women-owned companies.” The goal of Lupa Apothecary, which also holds yoga and Pilates events and manifestation classes, is to spread Barbara’s positive energy. “Most of the people who walk in are stressed out,” she says. “And whether they buy skin-care products or jewelry made of powerful-energy crystals, they leave feeling good with things that help them.” Describing the shop as “very me,” Barbara says that “it’s everything I love.” At some point, Barbara hopes to expand Lupa Apothecary. She’s not entirely clear about what this will entail. It may mean renting a larger space or it may simply be adding more events and courses. She talks about creating her own line of products that carry the Lupa brand name. “Life is about chapters, and this one is just starting,” she says, adding that as a firsttime business owner, she’s still in the learning phase. “I don’t know where this will take me and everybody.” But she’s absolutely positive it will be a very good place. Learn more about channeling your own positive energy at lupaapothecary.com.

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D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/SOM E R S E T HI L L S

ARTICLE BY GRACE SPENCER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIZ POLO, HAVANA PHOTOGRAPHY

FOR THE LOV E OF CA K E

Passion and creativity mix it up in the kitchen of Akanksha Behari. The Basking Ridge resident always enjoyed baking cakes for friends and family, channeling her creativity through beautiful themes and designs. This passion led her to found her custom-art bakery, CakeOholic. During the pandemic shut down, she began teaching free online baking classes for kids and raised $2,000 in donations for frontline workers. Her classes reached students across the nation from the Northeast to the South and Midwest, as well as overseas in London and India. This sparked an idea, and she decided to start baking full-time.

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

AKANKSHA BEHARI INVITES YOU TO JOIN HER IN HER KITCHEN WHERE CREATIVE CAKES ARE THE STAR ATTRACTION

CHOCOLATE LAVA CAKE ingredients: Behari strives to design unforgettable cakes that are larger-than-life and exceed expectations. “The goal is to create true happiness—honest, genuine smiles,” she says. She shares her love of baking through summer camps, one-on-one instruction and birthday parties that teach children how to make restaurant-quality creations. She wants her students to also gain practical skills that can be used outside of class: The chemistry and physics of baking and the origins of the recipes. CakeOholic is an active member of the community. It sponsors PTO fundraisers, teaches baking to children with autism and makes regular donations to a special needs elementary school in Livingston. “This is more than a business: It is a passion,” Behari says, “I am genuinely passionate about the cause—and the kids.” View Behari’s cake designs at facebook.com/ aksbehari or on Instagram at instagram.com/ cakeoholic_i_want_my_cake.

• • • •

1/2 c unsalted butter 6 oz bittersweet chocolate 2 eggs 2 egg yolks

• 1/4 c sugar • 1 pinch salt • 2 tbs flour

directions: 1. Preheat oven to 450° F. Butter and flour your ramekins. 2. Melt the butter with the chocolate on low heat in a double boiler or in the microwave. (If you use a microwave, heat the chocolate in 30-second intervals so it does not burn.) Whisk until smooth. 3. In a medium bowl, beat the eggs with the egg yolks, sugar and salt until thickened and pale. An electric mixer works best. 4. Fold the chocolate mixture and flour into the egg mixture. 5. Pour the batter into the ramekins and bake for 7 to 11 minutes. Ovens vary, so check to see if the top layer is set and not too jiggly. 6. Let the cakes cool in the ramekins for one minute, then cover each with an inverted dessert plate. 7. Carefully turn each one over, let stand for 10 seconds and then unmold. 8. Sift powdered sugar on top and garnish with berries and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

CONTINUED > D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/SOM E R S E T HI L L S

CHOCOLATE CUPCAKES ingredients: • • • • • • • • • • • •

1 3/4 c all-purpose flour 3/4 c unsweetened natural cocoa powder 1 3/4 c granulated sugar 2 tsp baking soda 1 tsp baking powder 1 tsp salt 2 tsp espresso powder (optional) 1/2 c vegetable oil, canola oil or melted coconut oil 2 large eggs,room temperature 2 tsp pure vanilla extract 1 c buttermilk 1 c freshly brewed strong hot coffee (regular or decaf)

CHOCOLATE BUTTERCREAM ingredients: • 2 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened to • room temperature • 3–4 c powder sugar • 3/4 c unsweetened cocoa powder (natural or Dutch process)

• 3–5 tbsp heavy cream, half-and-half or milk • 1/4 tsp salt • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

directions: Whisk the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt and espresso powder together in a large bowl. Set aside. Using a mixer fitted with a whisk attachment (or use a whisk) mix the oil, eggs and vanilla together on medium-high speed until combined. Add the buttermilk and mix until combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, add coffee and whisk or beat on low speed until the batter is completely combined. Batter is thin. Bake at 360° F for 30–40 minutes. Top with chocolate buttercream.

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D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/SOM E R S E T HI L L S

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C HE F ’S SE LE CT ION | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

Branzino

Blu Crête Bistro in Basking Ridge Serves up Italian Cuisine With Its Own Special Twist ARTICLE BY PATTI ZIELINSKI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HELEN LAWLER, INSPIORMX Prepare to steal a bite off of your companions’ plates after you order at Blu Crête Bistro. You might have to resort to that since it’s difficult to choose from the eclectic menu options that are guaranteed to capture your imagination, then tantalize your taste buds: Sushi Pizza (rice cake, ahi tuna, scallions, spicy aioli and soy reduction), Gnocchi Gorgonzola (potato gnocchi, beef tenderloin tips, gorgonzola cream sauce and Chianti reduction), a side of long hot peppers, spinach, homemade sausage and demi-glazed sauce—oh my! The Basking Ridge BYO, opened by Nick Mavraj about a year ago, has become a welcomed addition to the neighborhood. The

menu is mostly Italian, with up to 15 specials each night. Mavraj, who emigrated from Albania to Basking Ridge in 2000, studied hospitality in Europe and honed his skills in Morristown restaurants before opening Blu Crête Bistro in his adopted hometown. “My son took a mixed-martial arts class nearby,” he says. “When I saw this space was available, I knew this is where I would open my restaurant.” As a resident, Mavraj enjoys making local and faraway guests feel welcome and hosting private parties for special events like weddings. View the menu at blucretebistro.net. CONTINUED > D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/SOM E R S E T HI L L S

Bistecca

INGREDIENTS • 2 tsp onion powder • 2 tsp garlic powder • 1 tbsp sea salt • 1 tsp pepper • 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 1/2 to 3 lb porterhouse steak • 2 sprigs each of fresh rosemary, sage and thyme wrapped with butcher’s twine at the root end • 3 tbsp melted unsalted butter

DIRECTIONS In a small bowl mix onion powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper and set aside. Brush olive oil all over the steak then season with the blend. Place the steak on the grill at 450° F to 550° F for about 4 to 6 minutes on each side. Flip the steak, then baste it by dipping the herbs in the melted butter and brushing it on the steak. Serve with roasted potatoes and vegetable natural au jus sauce.

Branzino

Branzino INGREDIENTS • 1 to 1 1/2 lbs whole branzino scaled and gutted • 2 lemons: 1 sliced into thin rounds, 1 cut into 6 wedges

• 1 small bunch thyme sprigs • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil • Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 425° F. Season branzino cavities with salt and stuff 2 lemon rounds and 1 thyme sprig in each. Season fish with salt and pepper. In a large, nonstick, ovenproof skillet, heat olive oil until shimmering. Add branzino and cook over high heat until skin is browned and crisp, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer fish to a large-rimmed baking sheet. Roast fish in the oven for about 10 minutes, until just cooked through.

Note: To cook the whole fish evenly and get all the skin crisp, prop it up on its belly using lemon wedges to bolster both sides. The citrus softens and caramelizes in the oven—perfect for squeezing over the fish when serving.

C HE F ’S SE LE CT ION | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/SOM E R S E T HI L L S

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Wishes at Midnig ht Bridgewater and Somerset Hills City Lifestyles Photographer Liz Polo Puts Her Own Spin on a Spanish New Year’s Eve Tradition ARTICLE BY LIZ POLO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIZ POLO, HAVANA PHOTOGRAPHY

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | EN T E RTAI NME NT

N EW

Every New Year’s Eve, my family gets dressed up. I mean, really dressed up: I have a sparkly dress I wear each December 31 with high heels. It’s one of the few times I wear high heels during the year. I believe when you get dressed up, it’s like you’re going dancing. I tell my children — Charlize, 12, Michael, 23, and Sara, 11 — that we should set a happy mood as we welcome in the new year. We eat dinner at 8, which is a tradition handed down from my husband, Carlos’ family. At midnight, we give a Champagne toast, then we each eat 12 green grapes while making a silent wish for the coming year each time we pop one in our mouths. I am Cuban and Carlos is Peruvian. Our grape celebration is a variation of a Spanish New Year’s Eve tradition that we had in both of our families in which people eat one grape each time the clock strikes midnight. Each clock strike and each grape represent the 12 months to come. We added the wishes.

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View Liz Polo’s photographs at myhavanaphotography.com.

D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/SOM E R S E T HI L L S

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If you or someone you know is impacted by or contemplating a divorce, or is involved in a related family law issue, the firm of Lepp, Mayrides & Eaton, LLC, stands ready to assist. Please call 908-800-7676 to schedule a consult today or visit us on the web at www.LMEfamilylaw.com to learn more about our practice and our attorneys.

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Joy to theWorld The Legal Team at Lepp, Mayrides & Eaton Share Their Favorite Holiday Traditions of Spreading Cheer and Giving Back ARTICLE BY DAISY MILO PHOTOGRAPHY BY MUSEN PHOTOS BY KAREN KWONG

For members of the legal team at Somerville-based family-law firm Lepp, Mayrides & Eaton, LLC, the holidays are a time to celebrate not only with family but also with their “firm family.” Partners Heidi Ann Lepp, Esq.; Mark T. Mayrides, Esq.; Sarah M. Eaton, Esq.; and Jane R. Altman, Esq., Of Counsel (an experienced attorney, not a partner or an associate, who is affiliated with the firm), share their holiday traditions:

HEIDI ANN LEPP When I was young, the Christmas holidays were simple. We had a real tree decorated with Christmas cards. We took drives to view the homes that lit up the neighborhoods. We left cookies and milk for Santa, who always left a few crumbs. In my home, after Thanksgiving dinner, the Christmas holiday officially begins. As we have moved homes over the years, we kept each of our Christmas trees. Each is decorated with ornaments that have been purchased or gifted between my husband and me or for our children. Looking at the ornaments we bought on vacations or those that our children made brings great memories. My children, 26 and 23, are instrumental throughout the holiday season. My son hauls the trees from the basement and has taken over decorating outside. My daughter creates the Christmas cards online and makes hundreds of cookies, which are given as gifts.

Christmas Eve is spent at our house. After dinner, everyone opens one gift. Christmas morning starts with opening stockings and making calls to family. Later, we travel to spend the day with extended family. I remind my children that Christmas is not just about presents. We have visited retirement homes to donate teddy bears and talk with the residents, donated food and clothing and volunteered at food banks. I hope that when my children start their own families, they will bring some of my spirit and traditions into their homes.

MARK T. MAYRIDES We spend hours decorating for Christmas. We put up two trees – a big one in the family room that’s decorated with lights, garland and ornaments we have given our children, and a smaller one in the dining room that’s adorned with ornaments my wife, Kristie, and I have exchanged throughout the years. Exchanging ornaments continues a tradition that began in Kristie’s family. We split Christmas Eve and Christmas Day into two holidays so we can spend one day with my family and one day with Kristie’s family. We invite others to celebrate the holidays with us. Last year, my son’s girlfriend, who was alone in her apartment because her family contracted COVID-19, joined us. We also give back to the community. Every year, our church sets up a Giving Tree with a list of gifts

CONTINUED >

L EGA L C OM PASS | PR OF E S S I ONAL S E RVI CE S

Sarah Eaton, Heidi Lepp and Mark Mayrides

D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/SOM E R S E T HI L L S

Jane Altman, Heidi Lepp, Mark Mayrides and Sarah Eaton

you can buy for families in need. We take our kids shopping to pick out toys and clothes to ensure the family has something from Santa on Christmas morning. We are hopeful our children will learn there is more to Christmas than just receiving gifts.

SARAH M. EATON When I was a child, my father dressed up as Santa on Christmas Eve. My siblings and I would watch from afar as he placed presents under the tree, reciting a personalized monologue about each of us. We also left carrots outside for Santa’s reindeer, a tradition that my own family has carried on. Now, my family enjoys some holiday traditions of our own. We bake cookies and buckeyes and have started an impressive nutcracker collection by adding a new one each year. My husband also introduced our children to the movie “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” and we watch it every Christmas. We spend Christmas Eve at home with my parents. Since my father-in-law’s birthday is on Christmas Day, we spend that day at their house with my husband’s family. Christmas is a time of giving. I enjoy donating to coat drives and food pantries, and each year, my husband and I buy gifts for children whose parents are patients at The Steeplechase Cancer Center. The holiday has become even more enjoyable for me as a parent. Seeing the smiles on my children’s faces and the excitement in their eyes is the best Christmas gift of all.

L EGA L C OM PASS | PR OF E S S I ONAL S E RVI CE S

JANE R. ALTMAN I celebrate Hanukkah by lighting a menorah each of the eight nights of the holiday. I host a party for my grandchildren, nephews and any Jewish and non-Jewish friends they invite. All the children get a gift, plus the traditional chocolate coins called “gelt,” which is Yiddish for “money.” The chocolate coins are used to play a traditional game with a dreidel. Afterward, the chocolate coins are eaten. For the Hanukkah party dinner, I serve the traditional potato pancakes, called latkes, with applesauce, brisket, chicken and side dishes. Over the years, I have acquired many menorahs, and I let each child light one. For many years, I also had a Christmas Eve tradition. My husband, Bob, dressed up as Santa, and I drove the sleigh (aka my Toyota Camry) to drop off gifts for friends' children and grandchildren. For years, I have bought and wrapped gifts for three needy families who have a child attending Christina Seix Academy, a private boarding school in Trenton for children from the poorest homes. I also make Christmas contributions to Womanspace, the Mercer County shelter for battered women, and the Somerset County Bar Association holiday toy drive. Learn more about Lepp, Mayrides & Eaton at lmefamilylaw.com.

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The City Lifestyle

Giving Campaign Now in its third year, the City Lifestyle Giving Campaign will give away $300,000 this holiday season to help individual community members who would benefit from a helping hand during their time of need. But they need YOUR HELP to make it happen! Maybe you know of a single parent struggling to provide, an elderly person who has experienced loss, a child enduring a health issue, a co-worker suffering a sudden, unexpected tragedy or a neighbor with a financial hardship who has fallen between the cracks of getting assistance. Chances are you know someone with a specific need—even if nobody else does. To preserve and protect the dignity of every recipient, the City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized in ANY way. (Even those who nominate others may remain anonymous if they choose.) Last year, City Lifestyle was able to give to more than 70 recipients all over the country by sending checks in the mail through New Year’s Eve. (This year, the goal is to double that number with checks ranging in amount up to $3,000 each.) With nominations flooding in from community members and leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you, we were able to reach people who might otherwise go unnoticed. “We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.” Together with Matthew Perry, Chief Sales Officer, Steven adds that the outpouring and gratitude from the recipients was overwhelming and affirmed that this is a tradition they want to continue. “We believe God has blessed our company with continued success,” Matthew adds, “so we in turn want to be a blessing to others.” City Lifestyle has also enacted an internal giving program whereby every employee in the company receives $100 to give away to someone in the community. “The idea is to encourage our employees to keep doing it on their own,” Steven says. “Taking care of one another and blessing others is so rewarding that it perpetuates a cycle of giving. It’s extremely important to me as a person and as a company to foster that culture of generosity.”

G IV IN G BAC K | L IFE + CULTURE

“This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

W here ha s t he c a mpa ig n g i f t e d?

Scan Code to

Nominate between Dec. 1 – 15, 2022

Follow @citylifestyle on Instagram for reminders! To submit a nomination, follow @citylifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link. All entries will be read, and because this is not a raffle, there is no need to nominate someone more than once. The amount given to each recipient will be based on need. D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/SOM E R S E T HI L L S

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D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/SOM E R S E T HI L L S

DECEMBER 2022

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

D E C E M BE R 2ND-4TH

Wonderland Weekend

DE C E M BE R 3 RD

Holiday Lights Parade

DOW N TOWN BERN ARDS VILLE Come to Bernardsville for a full weekend packed with festive events: Concert with the Holiday Belles, Cookie Crawl, gingerbread house competition, photos with Santa, holiday parade workshops and activities, Kids Night Out, and Polar Express Night at the Bernardsville Cinema. downtownbernardsville.org

STR EETS OF S OMERVILLE | 6:0 0 P M Fire and emergency vehicles decked out in holiday lights come from near and far to parade the streets of Somerville.

DE C E M BE R 3 RD

Winter Market & Christmas Tree Lighting

BIS HOP JAN ES UN ITED METHO DI ST C H UR C H , 22 S . F I NL E Y AV E ., B AS K I NG R I DG E | 1 2 : 00 P M With over 30 local vendors and artisans, the Winter Market is a great place to shop for holiday wares and pick up gifts. The Christmas Tree Lighting starts at 5 p.m. in Downtown Basking Ridge. brbanj.org

D EC E M BE R 4 T H

Creative Eye Photography

CLAREN CE DILLON PUBLIC LIB R A RY, 2336 L A MI NGTO N R D., B E DMI NST E R | 3:30 P M Creative Eye Photography presents a live show featuring images by local photographer David Surks, who is a contributing photographer to Somerset Hills City Lifestyle magazine. D E C E M BE R 7TH-29TH

D EC E M BE R 9 T H

42nd Festival of Trees

E NVIRON MEN TAL EDUCATION C E NT E R , 1 9 0 LO R D ST I R L I NG R D., B AS K I NG R I DG E | 9 :00 A M The Festival of Trees is an indoor exhibit of decorated trees by various community groups and individuals. Enjoy live holiday music on select Saturdays and Sundays. Snowflake Café on all Saturdays and Sundays. somersetcountyparks.org

Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet

RA RITAN VALLEY COMMUN ITY C O L L E G E P E R F O R MI NG A RTS C E NT E R , 1 1 8 L A MI NGTO N RD. , BRAN CHBURG | 4PM & 8 PM Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet overflows with larger-than-life puppets, breathtaking acrobatics and dazzling costumes. Experience the exquisite artistry of the international cast featuring stars of Ukraine ballet, performing at the highest level of classical technique. rvccarts.org

CONTINUED >

EVE N TS

D E CE MBE R 2 0 2 2

realty report A sample of recently sold properties in Somerset Hills N E I GH BO RH O O D 27 River Farm Ln

LIST PRICE

SO L D P RIC E

%SO L D/ O RIG

DO M

B DRM S

B AT H S

$1,995,000.00

$1,900,000.00

95%

3.2

14 Royal Oak Dr

$1,575,000.00

$1,470,000.00

93%

3.2

64 Morgan Ln

$1,499,000.00

$1,350,000.00

90%

5.1

58 Summit Dr

$1,249,000.00

$1,331,000.00

107%

4.1

76 Culberson Rd

$1,485,000.00

$1,300,000.00

88%

4.1

145 Bernard Dr

$1,199,900.00

$1,250,000.00

104%

4.1

48 Watchung Dr

$1,149,000.00

$1,150,000.00

100%

3.1

12 Watchung Dr

$1,069,900.00

$1,115,000.00

104%

3.1

27 Juniper Way

$1,250,000.00

$1,110,000.00

89%

3.1

$1,199,999.00

$1,060,000.00

88%

4.1

19 Crest Dr 269 Lyons Rd

$899,999.00

$999,999.00

111%

4.1

3251 Valley Rd

$1,200,000.00

$999,999.00

83%

1.1

53 Harrison Brook Dr

$999,900.00

100%

30 Palmerston Pl

$920,000.00

$967,365.00

105%

2.1

38 Hardscrabble Rd

$979,000.00

$925,000.00

94%

2.2

19 Georgetown Ct

$898,000.00

$900,000.00

100%

2.1

56 Canter Dr

$799,900.00

$880,000.00

110%

3.1

114 Goltra Dr

$850,000.00

100%

2.1

243 Patriot Hill Dr

$739,000.00

$763,800.00

103%

2.1

59 Patriot Hill Dr

$715,000.00

$741,000.00

104%

2.1

27 Fairbanks Ln

$649,000.00

$700,000.00

108%

2.1

32 Ash St

$688,000.00

$640,000.00

93%

1.1

33 Cannon Ct

$609,000.00

$635,000.00

104%

2.1

20 Prescott Ct

$509,000.00

$496,000.00

97%

2.1

9 Carswell Ct

$499,900.00

$480,000.00

96%

2.1

Brian Woltman | Branch Manager

As per GSMLS for Basking Ridge, Bedminster, Bernardsville, Far Hills and Peapack Gladstone

NMLS ID # 587190 ph: 800.333.3004 x3207 | c: 908.295.4891 bwoltman@embracehomeloans.com

D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/SOM E R S E T HI L L S

EVENTS CONTINUED

DECEMBER 9 TH

Hanukkah Cooking

B A R RY’ S A P P L I A NC E A N D T V, 5 6 5 UNI O N AV E ., B R I DG E WAT E R | 5 :0 0 P M Join Chef Barbara, corporate chef and event director, in making an Everything Bagel Crusted Loin of Salmon and Tri-Color Latkes. barrysappliance.com

DECEMBER 9 TH

Celtic Angels Christmas

MAYO P E R F O R MI NG A RTS C E NT E R , 1 0 0 S O UT H ST. , MO R R I STOWN | 7 :30 P M Vocal and instrumental holiday and Irish favorites are paired with show-stopping champion Irish dancing and a live band. mayoarts.org

DECEMBER 9 TH

Peter Mayer: Stars and Promises

A C R E AT I V E D E S I G N - B U I L D C O M P A N Y

S O ME RV I L L E H I G H S C HOOL , 222 DAV E NP O RT ST., S O ME RV I L L E | 7 :30 A M Singer, songwriter and guitarist Peter Mayer returns to Somerville on the 22nd anniversary of his widely acclaimed Christmas tour “Stars and Promises.” Mayer has released 25 of his own albums, toured internationally with his own band and has been the lead guitarist for Jimmy Buffett’s Coral Reefer band for three decades. petermayer.com

Truly transform the way you live. Cabinetry for every room.

134 South Finley Ave, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920 908-766-2006 | www.trueleafkitchens.com CONTINUED >

EVE N TS

Meadowbro ok

Country Day Camp

JOIN US IN

SUMMER 2023

Limited spots available

BOOK YOUR TOUR TODAY!

908-876-3429 • meadowbrookdaycamp.com

EVENTS CONTINUED

The Best-Kept Secret IN SENIOR LIVING

DECEMBER 15TH

JCC Camp Ruach Open House

S H I MO N A ND SA R A B I RN B AU M J E WI S H C O MMUNI T Y C E NT E R , 7 7 5 TA L A MI NI RD. , B R I DG E WAT E R | 5 :30 P M Meet the Camp staff, tour the JCC and learn about the exciting Camp 2023 season. We offer a welcoming and inclusive camp. We feature indoor and outdoor pools, plus a splash pad. Contact RMetzger@ssbjcc.org or visit jccCampruach.org

DECEMBER 17TH-18TH

Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella

SIEMINSKI THEATER CULTURAL ARTS CENTER, 8000 FELLOWSHIP RD., BASKING RIDGE | 7:30 PM & 2:30 PM Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella is the new Broadway adaptation of the beloved classic musical.

ord is spreading about the allnew, maintenance-free apartments and must-see amenities—within an hour of everyone and everything you love in New York City. It’s retirement Jersey-style.

sieminskitheater.org

TheDelaneyofBridgewater.com

Call (732) 733-4568 to experience it.

901 Frontier Road • Bridgewater, NJ 08807 (732) 507-5151 BridgewaterLIFE@TheDelaneyofBridgewater.com

EVE N TS

DECEMBER 3 1ST

New Years New Jersey

WE ST I N G OV E R NO R MORRI S H OT E L , 2 WH I P PA NY R D. , MO R R I STOWN | 5 :0 0 P M The hotel party and gala features a five-hour premium open bar, threecourse dinner, cocktail hour and desserts. Live entertainment and dancing with The Nines and Lights Out. newyearsnj.com

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/SomersetHills

YOUR LIGHTHOUSE IN THE STORM ™ At Lyons & Associates, our attorneys understand that family law, criminal law, estate planning, business litigation, and other complex legal matters involve more than just a resolution. While we aggressively pursue your goals and protect your interests in court, we will also take a holistic approach that focuses on helping you recover from the legal crisis you may be currently encountering. Call for a free consultation.

ANNOUNCING OUR NEWEST FREEHOLD, NEW JERSEY LOCATION

Freehold 62 Thoreau Drive Freehold, NJ 07728

Somerville 76 E. Main St. Hamon Bldg., 2nd Floor Somerville, NJ 08876

Morristown 161 Madison Ave. 3rd Floor, Suite 345 Morristown, NJ 07960

Marie Young

908.938.2525 Cell www.marieyoung.net

wishing everyone a joyous and peaceful holiday season!

908.766.0808 Office ©2022 Coldwell Banker Realty. All rights reserved. Coldwell Banker Realty fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by a subsidiary of Realogy, the logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Realty. Not intended as a solicitation if your property is already listed by another broker. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker are independent contractors, sales associates, not employees.

Coldwell Banker Realty 1 So. Finley Avenue, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920