Somerset Hills, NJ February 2026

We Love Local!

INSIDE RAISE THE RUNWAY, THE LOCAL FASHION NIGHT THAT TURNED BASKING RIDGE INTO A FULL-SCALE RUNWAY WITH PURPOSE.

Love Lives Here

Happy Valentine’s Day, Somerset Hills!

February is already known for hearts, flowers and chocolate. It is the month of love, and it is especially meaningful for us. Jake and I celebrate 17 years of marriage this month, and yes—we got married on Feb. 14, exactly six years after our first date. We like to joke that marrying on an actual holiday was strategic— giving Jake one less date a year to remember. Seventeen years later, I’d say the strategy paid off.

That idea—connection, intention and showing up for what matters—runs through our Love Local issue.

Our cover story captures it perfectly. Turn to page 26 for Raise the Runway, an unforgettable night that transformed Basking Ridge Country Club into a fashion experience with heart. Created by the Raise the Volume founders Vanessa Berger and Cristina Luzaj, the event blended local design, bold self-expression and a powerful mission centered on inclusion within the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. It wasn't New York Fashion Week—but it felt like it.

Community connection looks different depending on where you are—and sometimes, it comes with a lot more noise. You’ll find us in the Scarlet Lot in our Rutgers tailgate feature on page 18, where Garden State City Lifestyle brings the energy for Rutgers vs. Penn State. Hosting there always feels personal—Jake and I met at Rutgers, and being back where it all began, surrounded by friends, football and Jersey pride, never gets old.

This month also invites us to think differently about love. Turn to page 30 for Spread the Love (Locally), a thoughtful look at how small, intentional acts strengthen both personal well-being and the community around us. From local volunteer opportunities to heart-health-focused events, this story reminds us that love is not just something we feel—it is something we practice.

And finally, don’t miss our Readers’ Choice for February. This month, we highlight winners in the categories of Best Summer Camp, Best Jeweler, Best Private School, Best Real Estate Agent and Best Fine Dining Restaurant. Turn to page 14 to see who stood out, and follow @bridgewater_somerset_hills to take part in future Readers’ Choice voting.

This issue is a love letter to the people and places that make the Somerset Hills feel like home. Thank you for continuing to support local businesses, local causes and this magazine.

With love and gratitude,

February 2026

PUBLISHER

Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@citylifestyle.com

CO-PUBLISHER

Tiffany Slowinski | tiffany.slowinski@citylifestyle.com

SALES DIRECTOR

Emily Labdon | emily.labdon@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Carly Mac Manus | carly.macmanus@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Kristin Kowalewski | Kristin.Kowalewski@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Jessie Fernandez | jessie.fernandez@citylifestyle.com

INTERNS

Sadie Brown, Ashwin Baldani

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

The Saint James School, Cara Zamorski, HWC, HN

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Mr. Local History, Tom Solymosi, The Saint James School, Raquel Brennan Photo, Cara Zamorski, HWC, HN, Media X Marketing, The Rotary Club of the Somerset Hills, Paul Miller Volkswagen

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

C r e a t i n g

T i m e l e s s

L a n d s c a p e s , O n e H o m e a t a T i m e

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WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

in action—Rohm Mukherjee raised $1,778 for the Food Bank, bringing neighbors

to support

in need.

business monthly

Meet Macculloch Hall Historical Museum's New Executive Director

Macculloch Hall Historical Museum welcomes Kathleen Bartlett as its new executive director, marking an exciting new era of growth and community connection in Morristown. A longtime supporter and resident, Bartlett brings two decades of experience in communications and education, along with a passion for storytelling, history and heritage preservation. She guides the museum as it celebrates its 75th anniversary and looks ahead to its next chapter.

Bernards Township Education Foundation Celebrates Major Milestone

The Bernards Township Education Foundation, a community-driven nonprofit dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for students in Bernards Township, announced it has officially received 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status and is now open for donations and sponsorship opportunities. This milestone marks a significant step forward in the foundation’s mission to strengthen and enrich the educational experience of all Bernards Township students by funding innovative programs and equitable opportunities through strong partnerships with families, educators and the broader community.

Community Support Helps BTEF Surpass $40,000 in One Month

The Bernards Township Education Foundation (BTEF) is proud to announce that in less than one month since launching its donation page, more than $40,000 has already been raised to support educational enrichment across the district. This incredible milestone reflects our community’s shared commitment to empowering students and investing in the next generation of thinkers, leaders and innovators. Thank you to everyone who has contributed so far—your generosity is already making a meaningful impact.

Readers’ Choice

LOVE LOCAL — FEBRUARY 2026

There’s something special about a community that shows up for its own. Love Local Readers’ Choice is based entirely on reader votes, highlighting the businesses, professionals and organizations our community trusts and supports most. These are real recommendations from real locals.

Each month, we introduce new categories to spotlight different parts of the Somerset Hills. To see the latest categories and voting opportunities, follow us on social media, @Bridgewater_Somerset_Hills.

With that, we’re proud to announce the February 2026 Love Local Readers’ Choice for the Somerset Hills!

DAY CAMP SUNSHINE

When families shared where they feel confident sending their children each summer, Day Camp Sunshine surfaced again and again. Readers pointed to the nurturing environment, engaging activities and lasting friendships that keep campers coming back year after year.

daycampsunshine.org | (908) 991-3215

R. WEISS FINE JEWELERS

Readers consistently mentioned R. Weiss Fine Jewelers when talking about milestone moments. Locals highlighted the attentive service, craftsmanship and trust that have made the jeweler a longtime favorite in Somerset Hills. rweissjewelers.com | (908) 766-2766

THE SCHOOL OF SAINT ELIZABETH

When education entered the conversation, The School of Saint Elizabeth was top of mind for many families. Readers emphasized the school’s strong academic foundation, faith-based values and supportive community that extends beyond the classroom. steschool.org | (908) 766-0244

MARIE YOUNG, THE WEST OAK TEAM

Marie Young earned steady support from readers who praised her guidance and responsiveness throughout the real estate process. Voters shared how supported they felt navigating major decisions, thanks to her local knowledge and clear communication. marieyoung.net | (908) 938-2525

BISTRO 73

Readers didn’t hesitate to name Bistro 73 when asked about favorite fine-dining destinations. Locals described it as a go-to spot for special occasions, noting both the elevated menu and welcoming atmosphere that keep them returning. bistroseventhree.com | (908) 766-7400

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EVERY NAME, EVERY HERO

Mr. Local History’s “Operation Honor Roll”

Honors the Brave Men and Women Who

Served Bernards Township

ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MR. LOCAL HISTORY

The Mr. Local History Project, a New Jersey nonprofit dedicated to preserving community heritage, has announced the launch of Project Operation Bernards Township Armed Services Honor Roll—a major initiative to document and honor all men and women from Bernards Township who have served, or are currently serving, in the United States Armed Forces.

The project’s goal is to create a comprehensive, verified, and enduring record of every township resident who has served from the Revolutionary War to today’s global deployments. The effort will unite research, archival documentation, and community input to create a permanent tribute that complements existing memorials in Basking Ridge, Liberty Corner, and the Municipal Complex.

“This project is about remembering every name, every service branch, and every era,” said Brooks Betz, founder of the Mr. Local History Project. “From the oak tree that shaded Revolutionary War soldiers to today’s active service members continuing to serve around the world, we want every generation from Bernards Township represented and honored.”

The initiative draws inspiration from the township’s historical honor rolls—including the Basking Ridge Presbyterian Church Revolutionary War memorial, the WWII-era Liberty Corner and Basking Ridge community boards, and the Bernards Township Veterans Monument—but expands the scope to include all who have served, across all wars and conflicts, including those still in uniform today.

Each name will be researched and verified for inclusion in a new digital archive, which will later be integrated into an interactive online database and public display. The project will align with the national observance of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, emphasizing the township’s enduring role in the nation’s military history.

“We’re not just collecting names,” Betz added. “We’re preserving stories, connecting families, and ensuring that future generations understand the legacy of service that built this community.”

Mr. Local History is seeking volunteers, local historians, and family contributors to help identify veterans and active-duty service members, provide service details, and share photos or historical records. The organization also welcomes donations and sponsorships to support research and design efforts.

Regarding the future, Mr. Local History will provide the completed data to Bernards Township officials in hopes of establishing a permanent memorial honoring our local heroes, ensuring that the township’s legacy of service is remembered for generations to come.

For more information, to volunteer, or to contribute veteran or active service member information, visit www.mrlocalhistory.org or email info@mrlocalhistory.org.

GARDEN STATE CITY LIFESTYLE BRINGS COMMUNITY SPIRIT TO RUTGERS–PENN STATE SEASON FINALE TAILGATE

HOMETOWN GAME DAY

There’s nothing quite like Big Ten football—the roar of the crowd, the river of school colors, the crackle of energy that builds long before kickoff. On a freezing November afternoon, Garden State City Lifestyle turns the Rutgers vs. Penn State tailgate into one of the warmest, loudest and most memorable spots in the Scarlet Lot.

Call it adrenaline, call it community, call it Jersey grit—but the season-closing tailgate delivers all the makings of an instant classic. For Garden State City Lifestyle, hosting at Rutgers feels personal. Publishers Tiffany and Jake Slowinski first cross paths on campus, making this matchup a fitting way to close out the season.

Just steps from SHI Stadium, the scene comes alive in a swirl of wood-fired pizza smoke, puffer-jacket fashion moments and music pulsing through the parking lot like a heartbeat. Fans arrive early and stay late, determined to squeeze every last moment out of the Scarlet Knights’ final home game. The cold doesn’t stand a chance.

A PARKING LOT TURNED PARTY SCENE

Clusters of friends and families move between artisan pizza, local craft brews and a buzzing photo booth capturing the day’s boldest, funniest and frostiest moments. The scent of blistered crust mixes with DJ beats, while laughter carries across the lot in clouds of chilly breath.

It’s more than a pregame—it’s the unofficial kickoff to winter, wrapped in scarves, gloves and pure Big Ten energy.

“This tailgate has everything we love—community, great food and an incredible game,” Publisher Jake Slowinski says. “We’re grateful to everyone who bundles up and joins us. The atmosphere is unbeatable.”

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FLIRT WITH LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY –PHOTO BOOTH

Endless pics, endless laughs. The booth drew a line all afternoon long.

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A high-energy set that turned the tailgate into a full-blown block party.

Together, they created something that felt less like a tailgate and more like a shared celebration of New Jersey pride.

ALREADY LOOKING AHEAD

As Rutgers faced Penn State in one of the season’s most anticipated matchups, the tailgate set the tone for a day packed with connection, camaraderie and pure Scarlet energy.

For Garden State City Lifestyle, it wasn’t just the perfect sendoff to the season—it was a reminder of everything that makes college football culture unbeatable.

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Saint James Girls Crack Top 5 at Nationals

The Sole Representative From New Jersey Makes History

The Saint James School cross-country team, a small parochial school from Basking Ridge, went head-to-head with some of the biggest and most storied running programs in the country—and made history. The school became the first middle school from New Jersey to crack the top five at the Middle School National XC Championships.

In recent years, Saint James has earned local recognition for its league, county and state victories, but the program had never competed beyond regional races. Its only exposure to outof-state competition had come at the Cherokee Challenge and the Wild Safari Invitational, both of which attract teams from nearby Mid-Atlantic states.

The Middle School XC Nationals are held annually at the legendary Tom Sawyer Course in Louisville, drawing athletes from across the nation, including running havens like Colorado, California and Florida. The meet routinely produces the

fastest middle school times of the year. In 2025, more than 1,100 athletes from 30 states were registered to compete.

Saint James entered Nationals coming off a dominant State Championship meet, where the boys scored a near-perfect 19 points (15 is a perfect score), and the girls placed four runners in the top seven despite being short-handed. But Nationals presented new challenges: a longer 4,000meter course—nearly 1,200 meters longer than their typical races—and fields stacked with runners from much larger schools.

An analysis of the top 10 teams showed that the average middle school enrollment, not including Saint James, was approximately 1,000 students. Saint James enrolls around 100.

But size never fazes them. “We line up who we have against who they have,” Coach Wizeman says. “We can’t think about injuries or the size of other schools. In the end, you run against the athletes in your race—it doesn’t matter where they’re from.”

GIRLS RACE: A TOP-5 NATIONAL FINISH

After a chaotic start—the whistle sounded before the starting gun, forcing a full restart—the girls varsity 4K went off at 9:30 a.m. Nearly 300 athletes surged toward the first turn in an aggressive, high school–level pace.

Baylynn Berndik of Ohio won the race, followed by Maryland’s Emma Pham and Colorado’s Lylah Keller.

The top 25 finishers earn medals and All-American honors. The toughest spot of all—26th, the first position outside the medals— went to Saint James’ Claire Johnson, who missed All-American status by just one second.

“I had to hold back my own emotions,” Wizeman says. “Claire has worked so hard since July. Finishing 26th at Nationals is an incredible accomplishment, but this one felt especially tough. Still, I could not be more proud. She picked off at least five athletes in the final 200 meters. An amazing, gutty performance.”

Two more Saint James runners cracked the top 100: Livy Battista, 57th

Julia Daus, 94th

Avery Pfistner (114th) and Emiliana Galeone (144th) also finished in the top half of the race.

To put the field’s depth in perspective: This same group of Saint James girls swept the Met-Pat League Championships, all placed in the top seven at the Greater Morris County Meet, and—except for Galeone, who was injured—all were top seven at States.

With all five varsity runners finishing in the top half, Saint James secured fifth place overall—earning a top-five national ranking and standing as the only Northeast school in the top 10.

BOYS RACE: A TOP-10 FINISH

The boys’ race also went out at a blistering pace, with early splits on record-setting trajectory. It was Ohio’s Oliver Scott who led from gun to tape, followed by Emerson Redcay of Virginia and Thomas Kline of Kentucky.

Saint James’ state-champion trio—Kaden Pye, Liam Johnson and Johnny Roberts—ran tightly together and all cracked the top 100. They were joined by CJ Hummel and Filip Sasko, who finished side by side just as they had at the State Championships. Tommy Malloy and Bentley Heinze rounded out the team’s seven.

Their performance earned Saint James a seventh-place national finish.

A SEASON OF DOMINANCE

Saint James ends its 2025 season with six more championship titles added to its banner. The team also posted major wins at early-season invitationals. At the Cherokee Challenge, both the boys and girls took first place. At the Wild Safari Invitational, the girls were runners-up and the boys captured their first title.

Saint James now boasts back-to-back county championships, five straight league titles and three consecutive Catholic School State Championships.

THE

Runway RAISE

Inside Basking Ridge’s Most Powerful Night in Fashion

On an ordinary evening, the Basking Ridge Country Club became something entirely unexpected: a full-scale fashion arena pulsing with spotlights, anticipation and the unmistakable energy of a runway moment that means something.

This wasn’t New York Fashion Week—yet it felt like it.

It was Raise the Runway, the debut fashion showcase created by Raise the Volume, a local nonprofit that’s rewriting what community fundraising can look like. Instead of charity auctions or silent raffles, the organization chose a different vehicle: bold self-expression, local design talent and a runway centered on inclusion.

And the result? A night Basking Ridge is still talking about.

A MISSION BORN IN A MOMENT OF NEED

Raise the Volume didn’t begin as an events brand. It began as two mothers—Vanessa Berger and Cristina Luzaj—trying to navigate an overwhelming year.

Both were pregnant in 2020, both were deeply involved in charitable work and both were watching the world shift in ways they couldn’t ignore. For Berger, who has lived with hearing loss her entire life, the pandemic cut communication off at the root. Masks blocked lip-reading, and suddenly daily life became even harder.

“It impacted me tremendously,” she explains. “I always wanted to give back—especially to the deaf community.”

Together, the friends followed an instinct to start something small, local and meaningful. That “something” quickly grew into wine nights, yoga fundraisers, kids’ spa days, themed scavenger hunts and multiple golf outings.

Every event sold out. Every initiative expanded the mission. And each time they promised themselves a break, someone would ask, “What are you doing next?”

They always said yes.

THE SPARK THAT BECAME A RUNWAY

Raise the Runway began almost accidentally—over coffee, conversation and the collective sense that Raise the Volume was ready for a stage with greater impact.

“We wanted to make Raise the Volume bigger,” Luzaj says. “And then we realized—why not create our own fashion week right here?”

They wanted edge, storytelling, emotion—something that would feel more Manhattan than Main Street. With guidance from fashion expert Rachel Willingham, founder of the brand rach.will, the team built a full experience: a VIP cocktail hour at 6 p.m., a packed general admission line at 7 and a 7:30 show designed to surprise.

This wasn’t just fashion.

This was fashion with purpose.

THE DESIGNERS WHO DEFINED THE NIGHT

The roster reflected both intention and variety:

• Athletifreak – energetic, athletic, unapologetically bold

• Camden Road – polished, wearable, community-rooted

• rach.will – editorial edge from designer Rachel Willingham

• Love Core Apparel – mission-driven pieces raising awareness

• après – charming styles for the younger set

• Foxy Fable – a high-fashion vintage online boutique

• The Monogram Corner – personalized pieces with hometown appeal

But one collection delivered an especially moving moment.

LOVE CORE APPAREL: THE HEART OF THE RUNWAY

Designer Nickie Mel of Love Core Apparel, a deaf resident of Scotch Plains, initially hesitated—not out of insecurity, but because she wasn’t sure her collection was large enough for a full runway presentation.

Berger reassured her immediately.

“I told her, ‘You absolutely belong here,’” Berger recalls.

Love Core’s models—all deaf, CODA or connected to the deaf community—walked the runway with calm, steady confidence. Many guests didn’t realize the significance at first, but the subtlety made the impact even deeper. rach.will

après

“That was the point,” Berger says. “Their presence belongs on any runway.”

A COMMUNITY THAT SHOWED UP FOR SOMETHING BIGGER

More than 200 guests filled the club— neighbors, friends, local business owners and families who have supported Raise the Volume since its early days. The applause was loud. The shopping afterward was even louder.

Boutiques donated portions of their sales back to the nonprofit, strengthening the scholarship fund for deaf and hard-ofhearing students—students the organization hopes to reach more widely.

“We’ve raised the money,” Berger emphasizes. “Now we need to raise awareness. We want more people to apply.”

WHAT COMES NEXT: BUILDING AN ANNUAL TRADITION

The founders are already thinking ahead. They envision Raise the Runway returning next year, evolving into a signature annual event—bigger, more diverse, and even more immersive.

“We want to expand—bring in more designers, widen our reach, elevate the production,” Luzaj says. “There’s so much potential.”

Raise the Volume invites boutiques and designers interested in participating in next year’s show to reach out.

Because if history is any indication, the next idea will appear organically—a suggestion, a partnership, an unexpected “What if?”

And they’ll say yes.

They always do.

LEARN MORE, APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIPS OR INQUIRE FOR NEXT YEAR’S SHOW

Visit raisethevolume.org for event updates, scholarship information, or to contact the team about participating in the next Raise the Runway showcase.

Spread the Love (Locally)

Small Acts of Wellness That Strengthen Community

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARA ZAMORSKI, HWC, HN

Love comes in many forms. Sometimes it looks like a warm hug, a handwritten note or a moment of heartfelt connection. Other times, love shows up through everyday kindness—supporting a neighbor, showing up for your community or offering compassion when someone needs it most.

As we step into February, a month that celebrates both Valentine’s Day and heart health awareness, it is a fitting time to focus on how small acts of love strengthen our well-being and uplift the community around us.

In holistic wellness, nourishment for the mind, body and spirit is essential. What is beautiful is that connection, kindness and service support all three. When we give, we receive more joy, more purpose and a deeper sense of belonging. This February, consider spreading love locally through simple, meaningful acts that brighten someone’s day while supporting your own mental, emotional and physical health.

1. GIVE BACK THROUGH LOCAL VOLUNTEERING

One of the most powerful ways to support community wellness is through volunteering. Whether it is once a month or once a year, offering your time has a measurable impact on both the people you help and your own well-being.

Here are a few volunteer opportunities for Somerset County residents:

The Food Bank Network of Somerset County—Volunteers help sort donated food, stock pantry shelves and assist clients. It is a direct way to support neighbors facing food insecurity.

Somerset County Library System of New Jersey—Local branches welcome volunteers for community events, literacy support, tutoring through partner groups and Friends organizations that run book sales and programs.

Literacy and adult learning support—Through library-affiliated partner groups, volunteers help adults learn English or prepare for citizenship. It is a meaningful way to support someone’s future.

Volunteering reduces stress, lowers blood pressure and increases feelings of purpose. Consistent giving even activates the brain’s reward center, creating the well-known helper’s high. In a month dedicated to heart health, it is worth remembering that helping others is genuinely good for your heart, both physically and emotionally.

If you are unsure where to start, reach out to an organization and ask about its next volunteer orientation. Even a few hours a month can make a difference.

2. JOIN A LOCAL WELLNESS EVENT OR MEETUP IN FEBRUARY 2026

Connection is medicine. Humans are wired for community, and shared experiences—especially those involving movement,

mindfulness or creativity—significantly improve mental health. February is a great time to explore local wellness events that support your well-being while helping you feel more connected.

Here are a few gatherings in Somerset County this February:

RWJUH Somerset and Bridgewater Commons—Heart Health Festival and Fashion Show, Feb. 22, 2026

This free community event features kids fitness sessions, hearthealthy nutrition demonstrations and blood pressure screenings. It is a fun, educational way to support your heart while connecting with others.

RWJUH Somerset—HealthHike: Walk and Talk at Bridgewater Commons, Feb. 5, 2026

This gentle group walk includes a discussion on vascular health with a physician, followed by free blood pressure screenings. It is ideal for those looking to combine movement, education and community.

Somerset County Library System programs

Many branches offer workshops, social groups, meditation gatherings, art classes and more. Calendars often include light movement sessions, creativity workshops, book clubs and community meetups.

Participating in wellness events does more than support local organizations. It helps you meet people who share your values around growth, peace and health, reminding you that you are not alone on your wellness journey.

3. SPREAD LOVE THROUGH SMALL GESTURES OF KINDNESS

Some of the most meaningful acts of love take only a moment. Small gestures ripple outward, uplifting not just one person but everyone they interact with afterward. This is how community wellness grows, one simple kindness at a time.

A few ideas include:

• Buying a coffee for the person behind you

• Leaving a kind note on a coworker’s desk

• Donating flowers or small gifts to a nursing home

• Helping a neighbor with groceries, snow shoveling or yard care

• Complimenting someone’s energy, outfit or smile

• Supporting a local business by shopping or leaving a positive review

• Mailing a handwritten card to someone you miss

Positive psychology research shows that small acts of kindness boost serotonin, increase happiness, reduce anxiety and strengthen resilience. February does not require grand gestures, just genuine humanity, warmth and compassion.

4. STRENGTHEN CONNECTIONS WITH THE PEOPLE WHO MATTER

Love flourishes when we nurture our relationships. One of the most restorative forms of self-care is making space for the people who make you feel grounded and supported.

In holistic coaching, primary food refers to the emotional nourishment that comes from joy, creativity, purpose and connection. Relationships play a significant role. This month, challenge yourself to cultivate more intentional connection:

• Scheduling a walk with a friend

• Planning a cozy night in with family

• Inviting someone to a wellness class or event

• Starting a gratitude chain where everyone shares one good thing each day

• Creating a small online group for support or accountability

Even brief but meaningful interactions lower cortisol, stabilize mood and reduce feelings of isolation. When you invest in relationships, you strengthen emotional resilience, contributing to a healthier, more connected community.

A RIPPLE EFFECT OF WELLNESS

When you give love, you create energy that grows. A shared smile shifts someone’s day. A volunteer shift changes a family’s week. A thoughtful gesture softens someone’s heart.

This February, remember that love is not just something you feel—it is something you practice. Through service, connection, kindness and presence, we nourish our own hearts while uplifting the world around us.

Cara Zamorski is a certified holistic health coach, holistic nutritionist, health and wellness coach, gut health nutrition specialist and weight-loss coach based in New Jersey. After overcoming HER2-positive breast cancer and surgical menopause, she made it her mission to help women take back their health — whether that means restoring their metabolism, balancing hormones or achieving sustainable weight loss.

Cara is passionate about empowering women to nourish their bodies naturally and build lasting, healthy habits. For more, visit www.wellnesswithcaramia.com

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Your Body. Your Health. Your Local Expert

BELIFE FITNESS: WHERE PERSONAL RESILIENCE MEETS LOCAL COACHING EXCELLENCE

ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEDIA X MARKETING

In a wellness landscape increasingly shaped by trends, algorithms and quick fixes, BeLife Fitness stands intentionally—and refreshingly—apart.

For founder Dan Donlevie, fitness is not a fad but a lived philosophy built from more than 25 years of coaching and competing, combined with cutting-edge science and technology to help others. Donlevie understands the body from the inside out—from metabolic health to biomechanics—and what it takes to build strength and endurance, lose weight and manage metabolic challenges.

“Be the life that you want,” he says. “Be the life you don’t think is possible.”

It’s more than a mantra. It’s the through line of his career, his own health journey, and the deeply

“BE THE LIFE THAT YOU WANT, BE THE LIFE YOU DON’T THINK IS POSSIBLE.”  - DAN DONLEVIE

personalized coaching he now brings to his upscale, one-onone Bernardsville studio.

A CAREER BUILT ON SCIENCE, NOT SHORTCUTS

Long before wearable trackers and macro calculators became mainstream, Donlevie was studying exercise science, sports medicine and metabolic health. He launched his personal training business in 2002—at a time when customized plans, mindset coaching and nutrition-plus-training programs weren’t yet standard practice.

Over the years, he evolved from high-end personal training into endurance coaching, completing 19 Ironmans, ultramarathons and two world championships along the way. But the racing credentials are only part of what sets him apart.

“I think the big difference is that I don’t just know it in the books—I actually do it,” he explains. “I’ve been out there applying it, struggling through it, and figuring it out.”

His combination of real-world athletic achievement and academic training—plus certifications in strength and conditioning, diabetes education, triathlon coaching and athletic training—allows him to create highly individualized programs for athletes and everyday clients alike.

A PERSONAL HEALTH JOURNEY THAT BECAME A PROFESSIONAL CALLING

In 2012, Donlevie was diagnosed with diabetes, a moment that transformed not only his personal life but his professional approach. What followed was years of self-experimenting, data tracking and learning—long before continuous glucose monitors and wearables were widely accessible.

“I was literally a human guinea pig,” he notes. “The wearables we have now give us so much data—sleep, inflammation, recovery, glucose. They let us truly understand what people are going through.”

That lived experience is what makes BeLife Fitness so uniquely resonant for clients navigating metabolic disorders, hormonal shifts or chronic conditions.

“You’re not going to find many personal trainers with an insulin pump,” jokes Carly during the interview—a simple but powerful truth about Donlevie’s empathy and relatability.

With more than 80 percent of Americans now living with a metabolic disorder, Donlevie sees this work as more critical than ever.

“It’s not just calories in, calories out anymore,” he explains. “It’s hormones, metabolism, inflammation. People need personalized guidance—not noise.”

THE RISE OF PERSONALIZED, ONE-ON-ONE COACHING

Like many small businesses, BeLife Fitness shifted dramatically during and after COVID-19. Donlevie transitioned fully to one-client-at-a-time training, creating a private, focused environment that clients increasingly crave.

“People needed connection,” he says. “They needed someone in their corner—someone who really understood what they were going through.”

TODAY,

BELIFE OFFERINGS CENTER ON OPTIMIZING METABOLIC HEALTH, THE BODY, THE MIND AND DAILY HABITS, INCLUDING:

• Medical weight loss: GLP-1s and peptides, in partnership with a physician

• Women’s and men’s health metabolic and hormonal coaching, especially for those 50 and older

• Programs for type 1, type 2 and prediabetes

• One-on-one strength training

• Endurance and triathlon coaching, often delivered through TrainingPeaks

Clients range from first-time 5K runners to world championship qualifiers, from new mothers to grandmothers tackling the New York City Marathon.

“No matter where you’re at, I can enhance you,” he shares. “I’ve worked with everyone from elite athletes to people starting from zero.”

METABOLIC HEALTH, LONGEVITY AND THE FUTURE OF FITNESS

Donlevie’s current research mirrors a broader shift in the wellness world: a move toward metabolic health, longevity science and precise, data-driven training.

He believes GLP-1 medications and peptide therapies— when medically supervised—will soon become standard tools for longevity, much like wearables did a decade ago.

“They’re not shortcuts,” he emphasizes. “They’re tools that help stabilize the internal environment so the work you do externally—lifting, running, eating well—actually sticks.”

His philosophy remains grounded in fundamentals: mindset, nutrition, strength training, cardiovascular conditioning and consistency over time.

But he also sees the importance of preparing clients for real life.

“A third of your workouts will be great, a third will be okay, and a third will kind of suck,” he says with a laugh. “People don’t talk about that—but it’s the reality.”

His emphasis on resilience, adaptability and forgiveness gives clients more than a fitness plan—it gives them freedom from perfectionism.

COMMUNITY, ACCOUNTABILITY AND THE HUMAN SIDE OF HEALTH

Though data and science drive his coaching, Donlevie believes the real secret to lasting health is deeply human: relationships, accountability and purpose.

“Most people move toward a deadline,” he explains. “Having something to train for—an event, a race, a goal— keeps people focused.”

He encourages clients to choose one or two meaningful goals each year, ideally shared with partners, friends or family. Connection, he emphasizes, is often the missing ingredient.

“We're not robots,” he notes. “The human element is everything.”

WHAT IT MEANS TO “BE LIFE”

At its core, BeLife Fitness is a place for people who want to be more—physically, mentally, emotionally.

His clients don’t need experience, perfection or even confidence. They only need openness and commitment.

“It can be intimidating to start something new,” Donlevie shares. “But it always starts with that first workout. You don’t need to be a world-class athlete to walk through the door.”

What they will find inside is a coach who offers empathy balanced with accountability, expertise grounded in lived experience and a program built entirely around them.

“People want more out of life,” he says. “My job is to guide them there.”

For more information visit belifefitness.com.

BELIFE FITNESS

Address: 59-65 Mine Brk Rd Suite 301, Bernardsville, NJ

Phone: (973) 650-7580

Website: belifefitness.com

Dan Donlevie

ONE DECISION AFTER ANOTHER

Golf? Drinks? Dining? Tennis? Pickleball? Lessons? Or maybe just lounging by the pool with a cocktail and dinner to follow? Whatever you choose, you’ll enjoy it surrounded by friends and family—right here at your club.

DISCOVER ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES AT RARITAN VALLEY COUNTRY CLUB

Play on a world-class golf course. Serve up excitement on our tennis and pickleball courts. Indulge in the finest culinary creations in the area. Unwind by a resort-style pool. The choices are limitless— and they’re all yours as a Member of Raritan Valley Country Club. To learn more, visit us online: www.rvcc1911.org

908-722-2000 | 747 NJ-28 | BRIDGEWATER, NJ 08807

HEART OF THE HILLS

HOW REALTOR MELISSA ARCUDI TURNS LOCAL ROOTS INTO EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE

“It’s such a unique place to live, with small-town charm and a strong sense of community.”

- Melissa Arcudi

In an industry that often prioritizes scale and speed, Basking Ridge-based Realtor Melissa Arcudi (DeCristofaro) has built her career on something more personal. A lifelong New Jerseyan and Somerset Hills resident, she pairs generations of real estate knowledge with a client-first approach rooted in trust, accessibility, and long-term relationships.

A CAREER BUILT ON FAMILY, FOUNDATIONS, AND FINDING HER OWN PATH

Real estate runs deep in Melissa’s DNA. Both of her parents, Marshall and Anne DeCristofaro, worked in the industry beginning in the 1970s, and her father has almost 50 years of experience, earning REALTOR® Emeritus along the way. She grew up hearing market talk around the dinner table and learning early on what ethical, client-centered service looked like.

Still, her own career began not with a brokerage, but with her brothers Matt and Jon at their construction company, Castle Ridge Construction , where she spent more than a decade running operations, coordinating client accounts, and learning how homes are built from the foundation up. “I essentially handled all the backend work,” she says with a laugh.

During the quiet of the COVID-19 pandemic, Melissa reassessed her longterm goals. She loved her position in the company - but missed working directly with people. Real estate offered the perfect bridge. “I’ve always been a people person,” she explains. “I knew I wanted a career where I could build relationships and help guide clients through such a meaningful process.”

A BOUTIQUE AGENCY WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH

Today, Melissa is part of Vylla Home, a boutique, coast-to-coast real estate brokerage known for its collaborative, client-forward culture. She emphasizes that the agency’s boutique nature isn’t a limitation—it’s an advantage..

“With this agency, you’re not just another file being passed around,” she emphasizes. “There’s a personalized experience, real collaboration, and genuine attention to each client.”

Melissa’s business spans all types of buyers and sellers, in all price points, across the entire state of New Jersey. She is engaged in a full spectrum of real estate services - from traditional transactions to lender-owned properties.

She also works closely with team members licensed out of state, including New York, allowing her to assist clients with multi-state needs.

“No matter your budget, everyone deserves the same communication, the same respect, and the same level of service,” she shares. “That’s really important to me.”

CALLING SOMERSET HILLS HOME

Though her reach is statewide, Melissa’s heart - and her happiest moments - are firmly rooted in the Somerset Hills community.

She and her husband first moved to Bernardsville in 2010 before settling in Basking Ridge, where they’re now raising their family. “We’ve watched these towns grow and evolve over the past 15 years,” she says. “It’s such a unique place to live, with small-town charm, and a strong sense of community.”

Some of her favorite local spots include:

• Blue Café — “You’ll probably see us walking there for breakfast or lunch. I especially love the ‘Blue Cafe Plate’ for those days you really want to indulge!”

• Ninety Acres — A longtime favorite for seasonal, ever-changing dishes and warmweather drinks outside.

• Red Horse by David Burke — Where her family hosted her parents’ 50th anniversary celebration.

• The Rebecca Collection — Her go-to for curated gift baskets, especially useful in her line of work.

• Penguin Ice Cream — A must-stop weekend treat with her kids.

These touchpoints, she notes, naturally reinforce her focus on expanding her listing presence closer to home.

“I’m local. I live here. I care deeply about this community,” she emphasizes. "I look forward to helping more neighbors navigate buying and selling in the Somerset Hills."

A LOOK AHEAD: WHAT TO EXPECT IN 2026

Melissa sees 2026 shaping up to be a year of opportunity for both buyers and sellers. With mortgage rates expected to ease, inventory should gradually increase - inviting more buyers back into the market. But one thing, she shares, remains vital: pricing strategy.

“If a home is priced correctly, it will sell. If it’s not, it sits,” she explains. “Even in strong markets like Somerset County, where demand remains steady, strategic pricing is everything.”

For sellers, proper pricing coupled with a trusted agent ensures strong positioning. For buyers, increased inventory and lower rates may finally bring relief.

INVESTMENT, GROWTH, AND A FUTURE FULL OF POSSIBILITY

While Melissa continues to expand her business, she’s also focused on building her own real estate portfolio - something her family has embraced for decades across New Jersey and even out of state.

“Real estate has consistently offered some of the strongest returns,” she says. “Investing wisely in our community is never a bad idea.”

A NEW VOICE WITH DEEP EXPERTISE

Though a rising presence in the industry, Melissa’s background, local insight and natural people-first mindset create a compelling mix.

“I’m still growing, and I’m excited,” she notes. “I look forward to having even more people experience the level of care, dedication, and expertise I bring to the table as I build my career.”

In a community defined by connection, Melissa fits right in - reminding us that the most trusted guidance is often closer than we think.

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Start Your Engines FOR SERVICE

Rotary Club of the Somerset Hills drives community impact near and far

ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE ROTARY CLUB OF THE SOMERSET HILLS

For more than a century, the Rotary Club of the Somerset Hills has lived by a simple but powerful motto: Service Above Self. As part of Rotary International’s global network of people of action, the club brings neighbors together to address real needs— locally and around the world—through hands-on service, fundraising and sustained commitment.

One of the club’s signature initiatives, its annual “Start Your Engine!” community celebration, blends family-friendly fun with a meaningful mission. The event draws car enthusiasts, families and supporters together for a lively day centered on connection, generosity and giving back. Proceeds support Rotary-led charitable efforts, helping fund programs focused on youth, health, education and community well-being.

Beyond special events, the Rotary Club of the Somerset Hills is deeply engaged year-round. Members volunteer their time and resources to support children and families in need, advance health and wellness initiatives, and contribute to global efforts tied to clean water, literacy and peace-building. The club’s work reflects Rotary International’s belief that sustainable change happens when passionate people take action together.

That spirit of service also extends inward. Weekly meetings offer members a chance to share ideas, hear from guest speakers and build friendships across generations and professions—all while strengthening ties to the local and global community.

At its core, the Rotary Club of the Somerset Hills is about turning good intentions into lasting impact— one project, one partnership and one act of service at a time.

GET INVOLVED

The Rotary Club of the Somerset Hills

The club welcomes members from all walks of life who share a passion for service, leadership and community connection. Meetings feature engaging speakers, fellowship and opportunities to make a difference locally and globally.

Interested in volunteering, donating or learning more? Contact: info@rotarysomersethills.org

Experience the Art of Pasta

Driven by Community, Built on Trust

Paul Miller Volkswagen brings a people-first approach to

For David Livermore, leadership in the automotive world has always been about more than cars. With nearly four decades of experience in the industry, Livermore recently relocated from Michigan to New Jersey to take the helm as general manager of Paul Miller Volkswagen in Bernardsville—bringing with him a steady, people-first philosophy rooted in transparency, approachability and community connection.

ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAUL MILLER VOLKSWAGEN

Livermore joined the Paul Miller Automotive Group drawn by what he describes as a culture rather than a slogan. Known locally as the “Paul Miller Difference,” the family-owned group emphasizes a calm, professional environment where customers feel comfortable from the moment they walk through the door.

“A lot of places talk about being different, and it becomes cliché,” Livermore says. “Here, it’s real. It’s a culture that’s lived every day—in the showroom, in service and in how we treat people.”

That culture starts at the top. Livermore is a visible presence on the dealership floor, greeting customers, helping prepare

vehicles for test drives and stepping into the service department when needed. The goal, he says, is to remove the barriers that often make car buying feel intimidating.

Paul Miller Volkswagen has embraced evolving customer preferences by offering digital retailing tools that allow buyers to begin the purchase or lease process online. Customers can explore vehicles, evaluate trade-ins and review payment options before ever stepping into the dealership, while still enjoying a personal, in-store experience.

“People still want to see and drive the car,” Livermore says. “The technology just makes the process more efficient and more transparent.”

“We’re part of this community. We want to be a positive presence and help it thrive.”

- David Livermore

That same commitment to transparency extends to the dealership’s certified pre-owned offerings. In addition to Volkswagen Certified Pre-Owned vehicles, Paul Miller Volkswagen offers Paul Miller Certified vehicles across other makes, each undergoing a thorough inspection and backed by added warranty protection.

Beyond the showroom, Paul Miller Volkswagen plays an active role in the Bernardsville community and surrounding towns. The dealership regularly supports local events, schools and nonprofit initiatives, reinforcing its role as a trusted local partner.

“We’re part of this community,” Livermore says. “We want to be a positive presence and help it thrive.”

Looking ahead, Paul Miller Volkswagen is focused on growth, with plans to expand service capacity and continue elevating the customer experience. With more drivers keeping vehicles longer, the dealership aims to improve efficiency while maintaining the calm, courteous environment that defines the Paul Miller Difference.

At its core, Livermore says, the mission remains unchanged: to create a welcoming place to do business where customers feel respected, informed and supported.

“Not every dealership has that,” he says. “It’s something we take pride in every day.”

For more information visit paulmillervw.com.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 12 ounces chocolate (swap half for milk chocolate if desired), chips or chopped bars

• Pinch of salt

FOR DIPPING:

• Strawberries

• Bananas, cut into 1-inch pieces

• Salted pretzels

• Dried figs

• Dried apricots

• Mandarin orange segments

• Anything else that strikes your fancy

DIRECTIONS:

In a small saucepan, heat the cream and salt over medium heat until gently simmering. Remove from heat and add the chocolate, whisking until smooth and fully combined. Serve immediately with dippables arranged on a platter.

ABOUT CHEF DAVID BURKE

Chef and restaurateur David Burke has spent decades championing playful, precision-driven American cooking. Known for elevating comfort classics with technique and showmanship, he brings the same rigor to a Sunday roast as to a tasting menu. Burke’s restaurants span New Jersey and beyond, and he remains a visible mentor in local kitchens and culinary classrooms.

A Valentine’s menu designed to delight every sense

A Delicious AFFAIR

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHEF DAVID BURKE

Courtesy of Valentine’s Day, there’s plenty of chatter this time of year about aphrodisiacs—foods believed to inspire romance and connection, particularly oysters and chocolate. These ingredients have long-standing cultural and historical ties to love and celebration, and science even offers some support.

Oysters are rich in zinc, which plays a role in hormone production and dopamine regulation—both associated with overall well-being and vitality. Chocolate contains compounds such as phenylethylamine and serotonin, which are linked to mood elevation and feelings of pleasure.

Named after Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, aphrodisiacs are not limited to food. Aromas count, too, which is why I think a roast in the oven feels inherently romantic. The scent, slowly developing as it cooks, builds anticipation long before the first bite.

Today, aphrodisiacs are less about mystical properties and more about creating memorable experiences that help people connect. For me, few experiences do that better than a shared meal—especially one layered with thoughtful, sensory elements that feel special without being extravagant.

Consider one of my go-to Valentine’s menus: oysters as a first course, followed by a whole roast chicken and finished with chocolate fondue.

Oysters can feel daunting for the home cook, mostly because of the fear of shucking. Fortunately, there’s a simple solution—a trick I learned during the pandemic. Microwave fresh oysters in their shells for about 25 seconds. With a little encouragement from a butter knife, the top shell pops right off. The oyster meat remains tender and ready to enjoy with the sauce of your choice.

I sometimes have fun creating what I call a “door sauce”—a quick blend of favorite condiments pulled straight from the refrigerator door. Whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup and soy sauce with a little salt and pepper, lemon juice and water for something unexpectedly special to serve with oysters.

My garlic- and onion-coated roast chicken is especially aromatic; the recipe appeared in my November issue feature on roasts.

What follows is a recipe for chocolate fondue—the first recipe I ever worked with and the first dish I ever made, created for a sixth-grade project. Don’t worry if you don’t own a fondue pot. You can dip straight from the saucepan of warm chocolate. Set it on a trivet or oven mitt on the table and use wooden skewers, readily available at grocery stores, for dipping.

The West Oak Team

Standing:

Marie Young, 908 938 2525; Terry Woltman, 908 812 2010; Karen Gray, 908 507 3563; Karen Richman, 908 419 8805

Seated: Neha Jain, 908 992 2203; Hope Salamone, 908 693 4711

Real talk!

Today’s housing market isn’t defined by national headlines it’s defined house by house, neighborhood by neighborhood Trends are hyperlocal, and understanding what truly drives demand in a specific community is what separates good results from great ones. With over 50 years of collective experience, we are your hometown agents, using this hyperlocal insight to help sellers achieve the best price the market will bear

Demand continues to outpace supply. Many sellers remain hesitant to move, holding onto sub-3% interest rates and valuing proximity to family and friends Buyers have become more value-driven They are weighing total cost of ownership, prioritizing homes with strong perceived value, condition, and location, and often choosing mortgage buy-downs over renovation projects.

At press time, Basking Ridge has just 11 single-family homes on the market Key local 2026 indicators to watch include new listings, pricing trends, and relative days on market, especially when analyzing “like” homes.

Our strategic presentation of homes, without costly renovations, consistently attracts the widest pool of qualified buyers Thoughtful staging, neutral updates, and clear positioning make a powerful first impression.

You only get one chance to make it count Let us show you how to position your home to stand out, compete, and sell with confidence

Source:

12/26/2025