Wayne, NJ December 2025

S E R V I N G U P Y O U R

S E R V I N G U P Y O U R

B R A N D I N S T Y L E .

B R A N D I N S T Y L E .

December Cheer and Holiday Celebrations!

As the snow begins to fall and twinkling lights adorn every corner, we welcome you to our most magical issue of the year. Christmastime is more than a season—it’s a feeling. A season of warmth, generosity, reflection, and celebration. Whether you're sipping cocoa by the fire or dashing through the mall for last-minute gifts, we hope this issue brings a little extra sparkle to your holiday spirit.

In this issue, we’re honored to share our Miracle On That Mat story. A story that captures the raw, redemptive power of loyalty, grit, and love. It’s a tale of defending what matters most—one of standing up for the city of Wayne and all its people. It’s discovering that sometimes, the fiercest battles are fought not in arenas, but in the hearts of those who refuse to give up.

We also share the story of Azrieal, the legendary wrestler and trainer who took me under his wing and taught me what it takes to be a professional wrestler. He utilizes those skills as a personal trainer as well, shaping his clients to be the king of whatever ring exists in their lives.

Inside this issue, you’ll also find the inspiration to elevate your gift-giving game with our feature on ribbon artistry. Discover how a beautifully tied bow can transform even the simplest present into a showstopper. We’ll show you how to make your gifts stand out under the tree—and find their way into the hearts of your loved ones.

And while we’re wrapping up the year in style, don’t miss our timely article by Conan Ward of Edward Jones on smart financial moves to make before the ball drops. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to start the new year with clarity and confidence. As always, thank you for inviting us into your homes and hearts. May your holidays be filled with joy, peace, and just the right amount of glitter.

Warmest wishes,

PHILLIP BARONE, PUBLISHER

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Phillip Barone | phillip.barone@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Don Seaman | don.seaman@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Officially Social | jamie@officiallysocial.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Don Seaman, Phillip Barone, Conan Ward, Arsine Kaloustian

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

John Agnello, Phillip Barone, Janie Jones, @Briankphoto, Chad Thompson (Wayne Hills Photo), Elnur

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard

QUALITY

USOA Miss New Jersey Pageant introduced its contestants for the upcoming pageant. 2: X Pickleball's Grand Opening (Rt. 46 , Fairfield). Ownership and Mayor Galese led the celebration. 3: Enjoyed by members and friends, it was open play all day on their 3 courts. Photography by Phillip Barone

SMART FINANCIAL MOVES Before The New Year

A Financial Tune-Up Now Is A Gift To Yourself Later

ARTICLE BY CONAN WARD

Conan Ward, Wayne Financial Advisor

For more in-depth ideas, schedule some time with Conan by emailing him at conan.ward@ edwardjones.com or calling him at (973) 872-1616.

Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.

As 2025 fades, it's the perfect time to make some smart moves before the calendar flips to 2026. Think of it as a financial tune-up that could help with saving money and setting you up for success in the months ahead. Here are some things to consider.

Now is also a good time to review your investments. Did they perform as expected? Do they still match your goals? You may need to rebalance.

If you’ve had major life changes like marriage, divorce or a new baby, review the beneficiary designations on all bank and brokerage accounts. These often override what’s written in your will.

Boost your retirement savings. Consider ramping up your pretax retirement contributions before year-end. Not only will this help your future self, but it might also reduce your current tax bill. If your workplace plan allows it, you can even set up automatic increases for next year so you won't have to remember to do it later.

Use your flexible spending money. Got money sitting in a flexible spending account at work? Remember, these accounts follow a "use it or lose it" rule. Check with your HR department about your plan's specific deadlines for spending the money and submitting receipts. Whether it's that dental work you've been putting off or new prescription glasses you need, now's the time to use those funds before they disappear.

Navigate new tax changes. Recent passed laws have made several tax provisions permanent, including lower individual tax rates and higher standard deductions. However, there have also been new changes that might affect your situation. It's worth sitting down with a financial advisor or tax professional to understand how these updates impact your specific circumstances.

If you're working, consider ramping up your pretax retirement contributions. Not only will this help your future self, but it might reduce your current tax bill.

If you’re 73 or older, you’ll need to take required minimum distributions from traditional retirement accounts to avoid a 25% penalty on any amount you should have withdrawn but didn't.

Defending The Honor Of Wayne Never Hurt So Good

Miracle On The Mat

Who knew that they served sour grapes at wrestling events?

It all began with a simple article about a wrestling promoter. Back in July, we ran a cover story about Anthony Cole and his BriiCombination Wrestling organization. Subsequently, thanks to the article, Anthony invited our very own publisher, Phillip Barone, to be a guest commentator at his May event. Phil would be partnered with Kevin Pryor, the man who introduced Anthony to Phil. He was excited to do it, especially since Phil considered Kevin a friend.

But during the course of one of the bouts, things changed.

Kevin had read the article and found that his name wasn’t mentioned. He’d felt slighted and brought it up during the match. He was angry, and as he got louder, he started to rip into the various people on the covers, followed by the magazine as a whole. After that, it got even worse as Kevin threw one of the magazines into the ring while trash talking both the city and the people of Wayne.  Phil had had enough and the two men argued. Wayne Lifestyle was denigrated, and Wayne itself was disrespected. As the argument intensified, Kevin threw out a challenge, seemingly from out of nowhere.

This would be settled inside the ring by the two, now former friends.

Phil would be defending the honor of not just his magazine, but of the entire town- with his own body. A body that was decades removed from his high school and college wrestling. One that, as many of you know, has survived a horrific car accident that has left him with physical limitations and constant high levels of pain, but he was undeterred. No, he was driven, and if you know Phil, that doesn't surprise you. That’s who he is. He’s all in, 1,000%.

He was approached by a legendary wrestler and trainer named Azrieal, who would help prepare him for the biggest physical challenge of his life: to square off in a professional wrestling match against an angry opponent. An opponent who knew where Phil’s injuries hurt most. While Phil knew it was a risk, he wasn’t about to back down.

“Nobody takes a shot at Wayne, or the Wayne Lifestyle magazine,” declared Phil.

CONTINUED >

Azrieal immediately called Gino Caruso, owner of ECPW (East Coast Professional Wrestling), to explain the situation and ask if he could train Phil at his Lake Hiawatha wrestling school. Gino heard about what happened and was on board from the start.

Phil pushed himself hard, and Azrieal ran him through what he called “torturous” training for 2 months leading up to the bout. “I saw just enough crazy to make this work,” Azrieal said.

Phil learned that there was a difference between being “in shape” and being able to take on a 200+ pound wrecking ball. He had to learn how to move, how to defend himself, and how to attack. He learned not only how to survive, but to thrive in this ultimate mano-a-mano confrontation.

By the night of the match, Phil was ready.

It turns out that Kevin wasn’t. He’d injured himself while doing his own training. But instead of it being over, Kevin threw Phil a curveball. He’d enlisted a formidable opponent of his own to take up his cause. Phil would instead be facing Adonis Stone, a former Arena League running back and current professional wrestler. Phil was no longer facing “the LeBron James of Radio”, as Pryor has been called. He was now about to take on someone much more dangerous.

Phil wasn’t amused by the switch, yet he took it in stride, and prepared to face his new foe like a seasoned professional. His only armor he’d wear was provided by Fully Promoted in Clifton: Customized black and white Wayne Lifestyle wrestling shorts and the now legendary “Wayne Strong” tank top.

Adonis entered the ring and immediately began flipping through an issue of Wayne Lifestyle before tossing it out of the ring to send a clear message of disdain to Phil.

Phil turned to his family, his friends, and his fans for one last look of strength before the bell rang. The fight was now on.

Adonis got in the first big move, getting Phil into a headlock before throwing him off the ropes and flattening him with a bull-like shoulder tackle. But Phil responded quickly, bouncing up and face-planting Adonis into the mat.

Over the next eight minutes, the two traded blows, clotheslines and violent body slams. Neither backed down. Phil was fighting for not only his reputation, but that of his entire adopted city while Adonis was defending his comrade’s pride. Many times, after a crushing blow, it felt like there could be a bout-ending pin, but each of them had enough resolve to rise back up and continue.

That was, until Phil miraculously picked Adonis up from behind and executed a perfect Angle Slam. The ringside commentators screamed in disbelief as it was followed by a three-count and the unbelievable had happened.

Phillip Barone (and the entire city of Wayne) had their hands raised in victory.

Wayne Lifestyle left the ring undefeated.

To see the whole match, visit the Reels section of Waynelifestylemag on Facebook.

The Gift Of Slammin’ Bodies

PRO WRESTLING (AND YOUR) SUCCESS BEGINS WITH A SOUND BODY

ARTICLE BY DON SEAMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN AGNELLO

If you’re stepping into a professional wrestling ring for the first time in your life, it might be a good idea to seek professional help.

Training help, that is.

That’s where Phil found his secret weapon. His name is Azrieal, a personal trainer and professional wrestler himself. Azrieal had been tuned into the live stream from the event that started the feud between Phil and Kevin. After hearing their exchange, Azrieal knew that Phil would need a good man in his corner to get him ready to take on the challenge before him.

Azrieal stepped up to help Phil beat some very long odds. He had a unique set of skills and experiences to offer. As a personal trainer, he could prepare Phil’s body for what was in front of him. As a former champion, Azrieal could prepare him to have success in the ring. But he didn’t have much time to make that happen.

“It helped a lot that Phil was a wrestler as a kid,” Azrieal explains. “It also was fortunate that he’s athletic, because that really put him a step ahead. We really had to get him into moving in a functional way, and to prepare him mentally for what was going to happen. He’d ask a lot of good questions during training about body positioning, how to fall properly, that sort of thing.”

Think about it - wrestlers fall. A lot. They’re thrown to the ground, body slammed, and take more physical punishment every minute than most people do in their entire adult lives. You have to

know how to position your body and fight natural instincts that might get you hurt. Normally, when a person falls backwards their natural instinct is to throw back their arms to brace themselves. In a professional wrestling match, that could result in an instant separated shoulder. And if you don’t know how to protect your neck and head, you could suffer spinal damage or a concussion.

The bodily risk to wrestlers is very, very real.

“I have people coming to me for training who are not athletic at all, but have this notion about becoming a wrestler. They may have seen it on TV and thought they’d try it, but have never done any serious physical things like this. That’s a big challenge,” says Azrieal. “They find out that it’s far harder than they imagined. It’s a big reality check of how hard it really is.”

“To really do this, it can’t be just a dream,” Azrieal warns. “They have to be committed to the work. I’ll find that out right away. I’ll tell them the brutal truth - this is gonna be hard. The hardest part is the training. Going out their and performing for other people during the match is probably the easiest part. The training is constant repetition and cardio drills to make sure that your cardio is up to par, because if your cardio is down, you’ll be so busy trying to catch your breath that you’ll forget what’s going on and then the match is going to go really, really bad. You have to have your endurance and your mind will follow.”

CONTINUED >

Honestly, there is a bit of cooperation and collaboration between wrestlers. They both know that this is a big show. It’s an event, one that would fizzle if it was over in seconds. Slowing things down and bringing theatrics to it is necessary for the spectacle of it all. But have no doubts - there are no special effects in the ring. These people are being hit, slammed, thrown over and over again. That’s the show. But the punishment they absorb and deliver is genuine.

“That boot that you see kick me in the spine? That shot I took to the neck? Those landed - hard,” Phil assures.

Azrieal knew that becoming a wrestler wasn’t Phil’s dream. Defending his magazine’s - and entire town’s - honor was. And as driven as Phil can be, Azrieal knew that he had what it took to make it work and get him prepared to come away victorious.

Yet there’s a more everyday aspect to what Azrieal does for people who have no interest in wrestling at all. As a personal trainer, he spends most of his time getting people in shape to face whatever they need to in their normal lives.

“I’ve been a personal trainer for almost twenty years,” explains Azrieal. “I have private clients and also run boot camp lessons in a few locations around Jersey City. I’ll come to your gym and work with you - maybe torture you a bit to push you on to be better than you thought you could be the next time. I help them push past what they think their best might be.”

Azrieal isn’t looking to make people into bodybuilders. His boot camps tend to concentrate on stability training, core training, strength conditioning - and surprisingly, most of his participants are women. So it’s not about lifting heavy weights and bulking up. (Although Azrieal is quick to mention that as we age, lifting heavier weights is beneficial as your bones start to thin. The extra weight helps to keep them firm and thick.)

If you’re looking to get into better shape, Azrieal can get you there. If you’re dreaming beyond that - into the professional wrestling ring - he’s the man for that job as well.

Just ask Phil Barone just how much Azrieal helped him walk out of that ring, head held high, body and pride intact. Not just a survivor. A winner.

Azrieal is a top-tier personal trainer based in Jersey City. Get yourself in shape, or even wrestling shape by reaching him at his website, balancedbodywarrior. isacertifiedtrainer.com , or find him on Instagram @azri3al

ARTICLE BY DON SEAMAN

BOW TIED!

Four Ways To Make Your Gift Shine Under The Tree

So you’ve chosen a gift and managed to wrap it well enough that it looks pretty good. But to really make it into something you’d find on Hallmark’s Instagram page, you’ll really need to bring the holiday heat - tied up in a bow. A really great one. Here are some ways to make that bow sing its own carols, and taking your present from “thanks…” to “Ohmigod - Thanks!”

THE SIMPLE BOW

Choose any unwired ribbon that’s about 1-2 inches wide, and make sure it's long enough to wrap around the box once and still have 5 to 6 inches left on either end.

Lay the ribbon on a flat surface and place the box in the center.

Take the free ends of the ribbon and bring them over to create loops. Bring the loops together at the top of the box.

Cross the left loop over the right loop. Then tuck the left under the right loop and pull tight.

Bring the loops together a second time and loop them over each again, creating a knot. Pull tightly. Adjust the loops so they’re roughly the same size and shape. Trim the tails to be slightly longer than the loops.

LAYERED RIBBONS

For a luxurious look, try layering different types of ribbons. Start with a wide satin ribbon as the base, and then add a narrower grosgrain or organza ribbon on top. This creates a rich, dimensional look that’s perfect for formal holiday celebrations.

Start by tying the wide ribbon around the box.

Then, take the narrower ribbon and tie it on top of the first one, creating a layered effect.

Finish with a bow made from both ribbons for a cohesive look.

DOUBLE BOWS

A double bow is a creative way to add volume and flair to your gift. This technique involves creating two bows and stacking them for a fuller appearance.

Tie a traditional bow with one piece of ribbon.

Then, take a second ribbon and tie another bow, placing it on top of the first one.

Adjust the loops of both bows to ensure they sit neatly on top of each other.

RIBBON ROSETTE

For a truly unique look, try creating a ribbon rosette. This technique works well with grosgrain or satin ribbons and adds an elegant, decorative touch to your gift.

Cut several pieces of ribbon, each about 10 inches long.

Loop each piece into a circle and secure it in the middle with a small piece of tape or glue.

Layer the loops in a circular pattern to create the shape of a rosette.

Place the rosette on top of the gift and secure it with tape or glue.

Winter Simmer

Magic

ARTICLE BY ARSINE KALOUSTIAN

FILL YOUR HOME WITH THE COZY SCENTS OF TART CRANBERRIES, BRIGHT CITRUS, AND WARMING SPICES

Creating stovetop potpourri is a delightful way to indulge in the scents of the festive season. This Cranberry Orange Potpourri combines sparkling notes of fresh citrus and cranberries with nostalgic spices and woodsy herbs to create a welcoming atmosphere.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup fresh cranberries

• 1 orange, sliced

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 1 teaspoon whole cloves

• 3 star anise

• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary

• 2-3 cups water (plus more as needed)

INSTRUCTIONS:

Combine cranberries, sliced orange, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and rosemary in a pot. Add 2-3 cups of water, ensuring the ingredients are submerged. Simmer on low heat, allowing the aromas to release. Check the water level, adding more as needed to prevent drying out. Simmer for several hours to fill your home with the scents of the season.

This potpourri is perfect for setting the holiday mood, whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or simply want your home to smell warm and inviting.

WINTER in a glass

HOLIDAY COCKTAILS & COZY CREATIONS

SPICED CINNAMON RUM FLIP

A luscious holiday cocktail with warming spices, rich texture, and a beautiful cinnamon garnish.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz dark or spiced rum

• 3/4 oz cinnamon simple syrup

• 1 oz heavy cream

• 1 whole egg

• Dash of ground nutmeg

• Dash of vanilla extract

Garnish: cinnamon stick and a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon

Make Cinnamon Simple Syrup:

Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 mins, let cool, and strain. Store in the fridge.

Add rum, cinnamon syrup, cream, egg, vanilla, and a pinch of nutmeg to a shaker. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to emulsify the egg. Strain into a coupe or stemmed glass like the one in your photo. Top with a cinnamon stick across the rim and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon. Optional: Add 1/2 oz chilled espresso for a coffee kick.

FESTIVE CRANBERRY GIN FIZZ

A bright, elegant cocktail with a foamy top and a hint of holiday spirit.

INSTRUCTIONS:

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz gin

• 1 oz cranberry juice

• 3/4 oz lemon juice

• 1/2 oz simple syrup

• 1 egg white

Optional: splash of sparkling water or club soda

Garnish: fresh rosemary or thyme sprig

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to create the frothy top. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to get that smooth, foamy top. Add a small splash of sparkling water if you’d like a bit of fizz. Gently place a sprig of rosemary or thyme on top of the foam.

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

BOURBON VANILLA BEAN HOT CHOCOLATE

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

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/2 cup high-quality dark chocolate (chopped or chips)

• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 tbsp sugar or maple syrup

• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

• Pinch of sea salt

• 2 oz bourbon

Topping: 4 large marshmallows

Optional garnish: grated dark chocolate, whipped cream, cinnamon

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, cream, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until smooth and heated through. Add chopped dark chocolate and stir constantly until melted and silky. Lower heat if needed to avoid scorching. Remove from heat, then stir in bourbon. Taste and adjust sweetness or strength to your liking. Top with marshmallows. Add whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and shaved chocolate. Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne for spicy depth

Kid-friendly version: Omit bourbon and add peppermint extract or caramel syrup instead.

are you naughty or nice?

From childhood, we’re taught to strive for “nice”, earning praise, presents, and approval. What if being a little “naughty” isn’t such a bad thing? Embracing both sides might be the key to a more balanced, fulfilling life - and not just at the holidays, when presents are in the balance.

THE UPSIDE OF BEING NICE

Being nice isn’t just about good manners; it’s a lifestyle rooted in empathy, kindness, and connection. So why live as a real-life angel?

Stronger Relationships: “Nice” people tend to be better listeners, more supportive friends, and more thoughtful partners. That emotional intelligence builds trust and deepens bonds.

Better Mental Health: Acts of kindness release feel-good hormones like oxytocin and serotonin, which can reduce stress and boost overall well-being.

Karma Points: Whether you believe in cosmic justice or the ripple effect of good deeds, being nice often leads to unexpected rewards down the line.

THE CASE FOR BEING A LITTLE NAUGHTY

Being “naughty” doesn’t mean being cruel and reckless — it’s about challenging norms, asserting boundaries, and living boldly.

Confidence Boost: “Naughties” aren’t afraid to speak up, take risks, or stand out. That assertiveness can lead to greater self-esteem and personal growth.

ARTICLE BY PHILLIP BARONE

Creative Freedom: Rule-breakers often think outside the box, fueling innovation and artistic expression. Some of the world’s greatest ideas came from people who didn’t play by the book.

Boundary Setting: Saying “no,” pushing back, or refusing to be taken advantage of — these are healthy forms of “naughty” that protect your time, energy, and self-worth.

THE SWEET SPOT: NAUGHTY-NICE BALANCE

The truth is, most of us aren’t one or the other — we’re a blend. And that’s a good thing. We can be both grounded in compassion and still live authentically and fearlessly.

Ultimately, don’t stress about being perfectly nice or rebelliously naughty. The most compelling people know when to charm, when to challenge, and when to color outside the lines.

It’s a pretty good bet that Kris Kringle himself sneaks an extra cookie or two when he shouldn’t. It probably turns out that Santa’s red and green “Naughty or Nice List” has a lot of shades of gray.