DISCOVER Bernardsville DECEMBER 2020
SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Rich Steinberg on his Next Phase after 30+ Years
6
COOKIE RECIPES FROM YOUR NEIGHBOR’S KITCHEN
2020 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE Local Gifts You Cannot Miss
downtownbernardsville.com/discover
WE KNOW TIRES & EVERYTHING ELSE ABOUT
YOUR CAR.
LONG HILL AUTO
HHHHH
ting Celebra th
Our 34! Year
I’ve been servicing my vehicles at Long Hill since the mid 90’s. Bob and his techs are true pros, all very skilled, knowledgeable and accommodating. Immaculate shop, state of the art equipment, they treat your car like it’s their own. Highly recommend their services. - John F.
HHHHH
Excellent, prompt service. All technicians are knowledgeable and personable. Will recommend to others. - Scott M.
As a peace of mind during these difficult times. All touch points and keys will be sanitized before work is performed and again as we exit your vehicle.
HHHHH
Honest automotive experts. - Matt C.
HHHHH
Every Major Brand of Tire Available For Less! Complete Auto Repair Services
This company is first class in service, professionalism and going the extra mile to deliver customer satisfaction. Really nice staff. Thank you all especially for the peace of mind. - Jackie
Total automotive expertise since 1986
LONG HILL AUTO
SERVICE
1905 Long Hill Road, Millington
908-647-7984
2O
$
Most Cars. Limit 1. Not valid with any other offers. Must present coupon at time of service. Exp. 3-31-20
OFF TWO TIRES
LONG HILL AUTO
SERVICE
SMART SHOPPER COUPON
SMART SHOPPER COUPON
www.longhillauto.com
5O
$
Most Cars. Limit 1. Not valid with any other offers. Must present coupon at time of service. Exp. 3-31-20
OFF FOUR TIRES
LONG HILL AUTO
SERVICE
#GiveBooks
"A Book is a Gift You Can Open Again and Again." - Garrison Keillor, author
99 Claremont Road • Bernardsville www.BookwormBernardsville.IndieLite.org
908-766-4599
25% 50% Buy One Massage, Get
A n y
OFF
M a s s a g e
F o r
A
OFF
F r i e n d
SomersetHillsChiropractic.com
(908)221-0808 139 Morristown Road Bernardsville, NJ Regular rates are $130 for 1.5 hours, $100 for an hour, and $60 for a half hour. Must present coupon to receive this special offer. Valid for purchase through December 31, 2020.
DISCOVER Bernardsville A Magazine for the Bernardsville Community ISSUE 2
Discover Bernardsville (ISSN 26940639) is published annually for residents and businesses of Bernardsville, NJ in conjunctin with the non profit efforts of Downtown Bernardsville P.O. BOX 887, BERNARDSVILLE, NJ 07924 908-938-3159 OLIVIA@DOWNTOWNBERNARDSVILLE.COM This publication is free for readers. All material in Discover Bernardsville, except where another copyright holder is explicitly acknowledged, is copyright ©Discover Bernardsville, Downtown Bernardsville 2020. All rights reserved. Use of this material is strictly prohibited without the written consent of Downtown Bernardsville. Editor Olivia Manning Photography Christina Cullen DOWNTOWN BERNARDSVILLE OFFICERS 2020 Executive Director Olivia Manning olivia@downtownbernardsville.com Secretary Bob Frawley rdf@law-corp.com DIRECTORS Mary Jane Canose, Tim Manning, Jennifer Morrison www.downtownbernardsville.com
Welcome to the 2020 Holiday Gift Guide! One of my favorite Christmas movies is Scrooged, with Bill Murray. It’s a funny take on A Christmas Carol, also one of my favorite stories. There’s a quote that I always come into the holiday season remembering. Bill Murray’s character, Frank Cross, reaches his moment of enlightenment at the end of the film and says: “It’s Christmas Eve! It’s... it’s the one night of the year when we all act a little nicer, we smile a little easier, we cheer a little more. For a couple of hours out of the whole year, we are the people that we always hoped we would be!” But I always wonder, what if we are the people we hope to be all year long? 2020 is a year for the history books, and that isn’t just a metaphor. Covid-19 has given everyone a challenge we never thought we would face. Homeschooling, working from home, losing our jobs or businesses, sanitizing everything. As we embark on a holiday season that is not allowing us out of the pandemic woods just yet, let’s remember Frank Cross’s words. Act nicer, smile easier, and cheer more and be the person you always thought you would be. Not for a couple hours, or this time of
DESIGNED BY: DOWNTOWN MARKETING GROUP
year, but all year long. As you browse through the pages in this guide, notice a common theme. Notice that we are all striving for more and better, whether its running our businesses, helping the community, or keeping our families safe. So many members of our community have gone out of their way to help others, inspire hope, and be there for each other. So cheer more, act nicer, inspire, grow, be the person you always thought you would be. As we look forward to 2021, Downtown Bernardsville forages on, as your resource for getting to know your community, finding ways to help us grow, and keeping positive among the chaos. Stay tuned for projects that we look forward to your participation and generosity to help Bernardsville not just survive, but thrive. Thank you to those who have been incredible supporters of our mission and Happy Holidays!
Olivia Manning Executive Director Downtown Bernardsville
Contents 12 Holiday Planning 31 Toy Guide 37 Fashion & Style
Finds for you, her, him, and home, from Bling by Design
When you have no idea what is going to happen next. Tips for a happy holiday season.
D O W N T O W N
BERNARDSVILLE
9 of this season’s hottest toys for kids of all ages from Bernardsville’s own Tons of Toys.
A Note from the
5
Cookie Traditions for your Holiday Table
Recipes from the Bernardsville community to inspire your sweet tooth this season.
MAYOR M A R Y
J A N E
C A N O S E
Dear Neighbor, The pandemic has taken its toll on all of us, but especially on our downtown. I commend all our local business owners for their flexibility, resilience, and commitment to our community during these strange times. And I am proud to be a member of the board of Downtown Bernardsville, a local, grassroots, non-profit that is working hard to provide opportunities to strengthen our sense of community. This holiday season we will all be challenged to find new ways to celebrate. Downtown Bernardsville will
17
be coordinating with our Recreation Rich Steinberg on the Bernardsville Print Center
We sat down with Rich to get the low down on the history of his 30+ years in town and the next 10 years as the proud owner of the former Mastros Shoes location.
Department and several other community and business organizations to provide safe, festive activities to entertain you and your families and to support our businesses. I hope you’ll keep this Gift Guide handy and use it to fill all your holiday needs and dreams!
23
Wishing you a joyful holiday season, Local Gifts to Inspire for Everyone on Your List
Curated by the Rebecca Collection’s Sharon & Bari Markowitz.
COOKIE
TRADITIONS There’s something about a freshly baked cookie at the holidays that brings us back to childhood. The warmth, flavor, excitement of a taste you only experience once a year. Submitted by some of Bernardsville’s own bakers, check out these incredible recipes to add to your jar this holiday season.
Dark Chocolate Toasted Almond Florentines submitted by Jan Greco Homemade cookies are a holiday standard; gingerbread, sugar, shortbread, biscotti... The list is long and delicious but often more time consuming than our busy lives allow. Then a recipe for Dark Chocolate Toasted Almond Florentines fell in my lap and a new holiday tradition was born. These little delights are not only crazy delicious and highly addictive, but they’re utterly mistake proof. INGREDIENTS 1 1/2 sleeves of saltine crackers 2 sticks unsalted butter
Dark Chocolate Toasted Almond Florentines take on
1 cup dark brown sugar
any shape. Make them your own.
1 tsp vanilla extract 3 4 oz dark chocolate bars
possible.Put the crackers in the oven
INGREDIENTS
1 cup slivered almonds
and bake until the butter mixture
1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
begins to bubble, about 3-5 minutes.
1/4 cup warm water
Remove from oven, sprinkle evenly
1/4 cup dried currants (cranberries may
INSTRUCTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a jelly
with the chocolate pieces and quickly
be used to substitute)
roll pan with foil and then a sheet of
pop it back in for another minute
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
parchment paper. Cover the bottom
or two, just enough to soften the
1/4 cup lightly packed light brown sugar
of the pan with saltine crackers
chocolate. Spread the chocolate with
1 large egg, beaten
(salt side up) in as even of a layer
a spatula so all of the crackers are
1 cup sifted unbleached all purpose flour
as possible and set aside. Now for
evenly covered.Sprinkle the toasted
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
the chocolate… [It seems like buying
almonds on top of the chocolate and
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
a bag of chips would save you a
refrigerate until all the layers set and
2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary (or
step here, but the chips have added
harden. Using a sharp knife, cut your
1 teaspoon crushed dried rosemary)
stabilizers and won’t taste quite as
florentines into tasty little squares and
1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black
divine as chocolate in bar form will.
enjoy!
pepper
Also if you prefer milk chocolate over
3/4 cup your favorite cheese - shredded
dark then feel free to switch things two 70% cacao and one 60%]. Chop
Life is Good & Savory Oatmeal Cookies
the chocolate so the pieces are all
submitted by Melillo Equities
up. I used three bars of Ghirardelli,
roughly the same size and set aside.
INSTRUCTIONS 1.
baking sheet with parchment. 2.
2. Toast the almonds and set aside.
These savory cookies are unique,
3. In a saucepan melt butter over
delicious and versatile - just a little
Preheat the oven to 350° F. Line a Place the oats in a large mixing bowl and sprinkle the water over them.
3.
In a small bowl, mix the dried
medium heat. Once the butter has
different – a little like us! Best of all,
currants, olive oil, brown sugar,
melted add the brown sugar and
they’re made with oatmeal (our favorite)!
and egg. Let rest together for
vanilla. Cook for about 5 minutes,
They’re great “take-along” snacks any
5-10 minutes. Stir again and pour
stirring frequently until mixture is
time of year for Art Walks, Sounds
this mixture over the oats, stir to
an even color and the butter in no
Around Town and other local events like
combine, and set aside.
longer floating on top. When the
The Hunt, Music at Moorland, and Art in
mixture begins to bubble remove
the Park. Enjoy them as dessert, energy
the flour, fine sea salt, baking soda,
it from heat and pour it over the
bites, and even as a first course. They are
rosemary, and black pepper. Whisk
saltines. Use a spatula to spread it
quite easily paired with wine and soft
to combine well. Stir in the shredded
out and cover the crackers as fully as
cheese. Enjoy!
cheese.
7
4.
In another mixing bowl, combine
5.
6.
Gradually sprinkle this flour mixture
sugar cookies with a sweet cinnamon
over the oat mixture, stirring until
crispy exterior that melts in your mouth.
combined.
No holiday table should ever be without
Form tablespoon-sized scoops of
these amazing cookies!
dough and evenly space on the
7. 8.
degrees. 2.
Combine flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt in a small bowl; set aside.
3.
In another bowl or in the bowl of
baking sheet. Flatten each piece of
INGREDIENTS
a stand mixer, combine butter and
dough to about 1/4-inch thick. Use
2 3/4 cups all purpose flour
1 1/2 cup sugar (reserve remaining
your hands to form an even disk.
2 teaspoons cream of tartar
1/4 cup) and blend with the paddle
Sprinkle a pinch of salt on top of
1 teaspoon baking soda
attachment or wooden spoon until
each.
1 tablespoon vanilla
butter is light in color and fluffy,
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the
1/4 teaspoon salt
about 2 minutes. Add in eggs and
edges are slightly darkened. Transfer
1 1/5 stick unsalted butter
vanilla and beat to combine. Add
to a cooling rack.
1 3/4 cup sugar 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Holiday Cinna Snickerdoodles Snickerdoodles are the best holiday cookies. They combine the qualities of
2 large eggs
flour mixture and beat to combine. 4.
In a small bowl, mix cinnamon and sugar. Pulling small amounts of dough, roll into a ball, about 1/2 inch
INSTRUCTIONS
in diameter. Roll each ball in the
1.
Line cookie sheets with parchment
cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly
paper and preheat your oven to 400
coated and place on the cookie
8
5.
sheet about 1-2 inches apart.
onto ungreased cookie sheet, lined
don’t forget them in the oven like I have
Bake until the cookies are set and
with parchment.
one too many times...
begin to crack in the center. The
7.
Bake for 9-12 minutes or until slightly
edges and bottoms will brown
golden (I bake closer to 9 mins and
INGREDIENTS
slightly. Transfer to a wire rack
leave on sheet while next batch is in)
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room
to cook and store in an air tight container for up to 1 week.
temperature
Marbled Sugar Cookies
3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Submitted by Kathleen Sanderson
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Oatmeal White Chip Craisin
INGREDIENTS
1/2 teaspoon salt
Submitted by Jennifer Morrison
1 1/2 c. flour
3/4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
2 cups flour
1/4 tsp baking powder These cookies came originally from a
1/4 tsp salt
INSTRUCTIONS
friend of mine, but evolved over the years
1/2 c sweet butter (part shortening, if
1.
Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
into a sweet treat that embodied the
desired)
2.
Using a stand mixer, combine all
holidays for me and my family. They used
2/3 c sugar
ingredients except the cranberries in
to be oatmeal everything cookies, where
1 egg
a bowl until a soft dough forms. You
I would add whatever I found around the
1 tsp vanilla
can easily combine ingredients with
house. Eventually, with white chocolate
1 oz. unsweetened chocolate, melted and
a wooden spoon, or better yet, your
and cranberries, we couldn’t help but
cooled
hands until all is combined. Fold in
make it a holiday staple, which it has been ever since.
cranberries with the mixer, the spoon INSTRUCTIONS Pre-heat oven 350 degrees
or your hands until well combined. 3.
INGREDIENTS
Roll dough into one or two logs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Wrap
1 cup butter (softened)
Dough:
with a plastic wrap and place in
Sift together flour, baking powder
your freezer. Leave for 2 hours or
and salt. Set aside.
overnight. If you are making them
Cream butter. Add sugar gradually,
well ahead of time, place in a ziplock
1 tsp maple syrup
blending well. Beat in egg and
bag for extra freezer protection. If
1 1/2 cups flour
vanilla. Stir in dry ingredients only to
you need them faster, you can allow
1 tsp baking soda
blend. DO NOT OVERMIX.
the dough to harden just enough to
Divide dough in half. Blend chocolate
slice through the dough and keep its
1 cup brown sugar
1.
1/2 cup granulated sugar 2 eggs
1 tsp salt
2.
3.
3 cups oats (I prefer quick or
into one half. Marble together both
cooking, not old fashioned)
dough’s, and divide into 4. Shape
2/3 cup white chips
dough into logs. Wrap with plastic
the refrigerator slightly or on the
2/3 cup craisin
and allow to stand in refrigerator
counter for about 10-15 minutes. Use
1/3 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
several hours or overnight. (dough
a sharp knife to slice up to 1/4 inch
can be frozen at this point.)
slices. Arrange on a parchment lined
INSTRUCTIONS
round shape. 4.
When ready to bake, defrost in
cookie sheet about 1/2 apart and
1.
Preheat your oven 350 degrees.
To Bake:
bake for 10-16 minutes depending on
2.
In a small bowl, combine flour, salt,
Using a sharp knife, cut rolls into
cookie thickness, until tops brown
and baking soda.
1/8” slices Lay on lightly greased or
Beat butter and sugar with the
parchment cookie sheets. Bake for
paddle attachment on a stand mixer
8-10 minutes.
3.
or with a wooden spoon in a bowl. Add eggs and maple syrup, and mix until combined. 4. 5.
6.
Icebox Cranberry Shortbread Cookies
Gradually add in flour mixture. Stir in oats.
I love making these well ahead of time
With a wooden spoon or spatula,
and popping the dough in the freezer.
fold in chips, craisins and nuts
When you’re ready to make them, just
(optional)
defrost slightly, slice with a sharp knife,
Drop dough as rounded tablespoons
arrange on a cookie sheet and bake. Just
9
1=
slightly. The browner the cookie, the crunchier they will be.
Submit Your Cookie Recipe The recipes on the previous pages and more from you will be compiled into a printed book, packed with stories and traditions from our community. Created as a fundraiser for Downtown Bernardsville, sales from copies of this cookbook will go directly back into the downtown. The more that can be raised, the more we can do to enliven the entire zip code with higher property values, a bustling local economy, and so much to do right here in Bernardsville.
GALLEY COPY
T HE BERN ARDSVILLE
HOLIDAY COOKIE COOKBOOK A collection of the community
’s
beloved holiday cookie recipes.
Publishes
11/2021
E D I T E D B Y DO W NT OW N B ER NA R D SV I L L E
Submit your recipe by mail to Downtown Bernardsville, PO Box 887 Bernardsville, NJ 07924 or submit online via the URL below. For more information, requested content and more, visit
D ow n t ow n B e r n a r d s v i l l e . c o m /C o o k i e C o o k b o o k
Need a gift for the holidays? Th e Rebecca Collection has you covered. Now you can shop online!
Your one-stop-shop for everyone on your holiday list! Ask us about curating a gift box or basket for that special someone. Local delivery and curbside pickup. See more gifts on page 16. 2 M i n e B roo k Ro a d Ber n a r d sville, NJ 07924 • 908-221-0025 • The Re be c c aColl e c ti on. c om
HOLIDAY
FASHION
at BLING BY DESIGN
Get these gorgeous finds at 27 Olcott Square, Bernardsville or visit www.BlingbyDesignNJ.com.
FESTIVE HOLIDAY SHIRTS Get into the spirit with these cotton tees that will give on lookers a chuckle.
Price $38-$40 Size
XS - L
Color Various Messages
THYMES
FRASIER FIR SINK SET This convenient set brings together Thymes Frasier Fir Hand Wash and Hand Lotion in one convenient caddy. Perfect sink-side care for busy hands!
Price $38 Size
One Size, 8.25 fl. oz. x2
Scent Frasier Fir Pine
FESTIVE ON TREND HEADBAND A touch of the soft fabric adds texture and style to any look, be it a festive occasion or with your go-to jeans and a tee for Saturday brunch.
Price $32
HOT FIND!
Size
One Size
Color Black, Green, Navy
r 12
NEVERLAND SWEATER This ivory sweater with unique Peter Pan lapels is a perfect addition to any wardrobe XS-L
Price $168 Size
XS - L
Color Ivory
LADY NECKLACE
DAD’S FAVORITE SWEATSHIRT
This silky stunning 18kt Gold Plated Necklace is made in Italy.
This oatmeal super soft sweatshirt is truly a Holiday favorite.
Price $68 Size
One Size
Color 18kt Gold Plated
SIMMERED CIDER COPPER POT CANDLES Warm any room with notes of apples, crushed cardamom and clove and hints of bourbon & malted rum. Once burned through, this food-grade piece is great for re-use! Non-metal wicks provides a clean, pure burn time of approximately 68 hours
Price $12-$68 Size
Vary, Visit for details
Color Copper, Gold
For more fashion trends and statement pieces, visit “Jingle” by Bling by Design. Their expanded store for the season, full of gifts, holiday spirit, and friendly shopping.
13
Price
$68
Size
XS - L
Color
Ivory
5
Accessories. Clothing. Clothing. Accessories. Clothing. Accessories. Accessories. Clothing. Gifts. Jewelry Gifts. Jewelry Gifts. Jewelry
Gifts. Jewelry 27OLCOTT OLCOTT SQUARE BERNARDSVILLE. NJ 07924 2727 SQUARE BERNARDSVILLE. NJ 07924 OLCOTT SQUARE BERNARDSVILLE. NJ 07924
BLINGBYDESIGNNJ.COM BERNARDSVILLE. NJ 07924 BLINGBYDESIGNNJ.COM BLINGBYDESIGNNJ.COM
908.766.6688 908.766.6688 908.766.6688 908.766.6688 27 OLCOTT SQUARE
shopolcott.com BLINGBYDESIGNNJ.COM shopolcott.com shopolcott.com shopolcott.com
CHANGE
STARTS HERE D O W N T O W N
BERNARDSVILLE CAN WE COUNT YOU IN? You want improvements. Then make a difference in Bernardsville and join a project task force, donate, or support the organization working to fill storefronts, promote the town and ignite the community from the inside out.
With support from and in conjunction with:
www.DowntownBernardsville.com
Safe, In-Home Personal Training Now Providing Online
Personal Training and Group Classes
Online Group Classes
Mon, Wed & Fri 6 am, Tues & Thurs 12 pm
Jennifer Morrison 908-381-8150 www.msbhfitwell.com jennifer@msbhfitwell.com Instagram @msbhfitwell
car tech
DETAILS
15%
Purchase $150 in Gift Cards, Receive
OFF Any Full Detail Package
Offer expires December 25, 2020. Valid on Full Detail Packages only, value starting $269 to $509. Discount applied before tax. Visit CarTechDetails.com for more about our services. Not redeemable for any other service or for cash. Valid only with the purchase of one or more gift cards worth $150 or more. Cannot be combined with any other offer.
908-766-7 115 C a r Te c h D e t a i l s . c o m 19 E. Henry Street • Basking Ridge Ceramic Paint Protection • Window Tinting • Wheel Repair Paintless Dent Removal • Windshield Repair • Engine Detail Vinyl Wraps • Headliner Repair • Headlight Restoration
Buy One
GET ONE 1/2 OFF
3-Bucket Premium Wash Offer expires December 25, 2020. Valued at $55 per car, standard vehicle size before tax. Visit CarTechDetails.com for more about our services. Not redeemable for any other service or for cash. Not valid on the purchase of gift cards.
Call ahead, Drive In or Book Online
SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
RICH STEINBERG
HIS NEXT CHAPTER FOLLOWING 30 YEARS OF BUSINESS AS THE OWNER OF BERNARDSVILLE PRINT CENTER
B
ernardsville has experienced many iterations of what we know today. From the days of George Washington, who’s men marched along what we know as route 202, to various versions of retail throughout Olcott Square and heading north up Washington’s route, to serious crime and other activities. If walls could talk, the stories this town could tell.
I try to live by a saying I have heard various versions of over the course of my life: “Give more than you take and leave the world a better place.”
17
One story this town may not yet know is that of Rich Steinberg, owner of the Bernardsville Print Center, who has owned and operated his business in town since 1989. First occupying 12 Claremont Road (now Anthony’s Pizzeria) and moving to their current location at 21 Mine Brook Road, Steinberg is taking another leap, having recently purchased a commercial property right across the street, the old Mastro’s Shoes building, hoping to renovate and move in early 2021. We sat down with Steinberg to learn more about his history in town, some fun stories along the way, and the future of The Bernardsville Print Center. Are You Originally From Bernardsville? If Not, Where Are You From? My parents moved from Union to Mountainside when I was 5. I ventured out on my own when I was 19 and after living in Elizabeth, Irvington and Somerset during
The current location of the Bernardsville Print Center, 19 Mine Brook Road. Visit BernardsvillePrintCenter.com for more about services, particularly creating your holiday cards this year!
my late teens and 20s, I bought my first house in Basking Ridge in 1993 when I was 30. I have lived in Basking Ridge ever since, although I’ve moved twice within town. What Was Your Childhood Ambition? Cars have always been my thing, I got the car bug from my dad teaching me how to change the oil/maintain the family cars at a relatively young age, 7. Loved going to car shows, reading car magazines and books. Read Chilton auto repair manuals to learn how engines worked & how to perform engine tune ups starting at about 10 years old. After finding, disassembling, cleaning & reassembling trashed lawn mower engines to bring them back to life, that convinced my dad and older brother to allow me to tune up the family cars. During that same time the go-kart/mini bike/motocycle bug bit me, too, so I was always the go-to guy to help fix my friends’ go-karts & motocycles. Once one learns how engines/mechanics work, any and all are easy to fix & tune.
How Did You Get Into the Line of Work You Are In Now? I am a 4th generation printer so I’ve been around printing all of my life. My great-grandfather, grandfather and dad were typesetters/compositors, with each of them being apprentices under their
18
respective fathers, except me. When I took a printing/graphic arts class as a freshman at Jonathan Dayton HS in Springfield (because my HS didn’t offer auto shop), printing technology had already started its transition from hot-type (small, individual pieces of lead or casted lines of lead) to cold type (computerized typesetting). Because my dad worked for a typesetting company that didn’t transition to the newer cold-type technology, he lost his job at about the same time. He could set hot-type very quickly and knew the ins & outs of a Linotype keyboard, but never learned a QWERTY keyboard well enough to type fast, which is a prerequisite for being a typesetter. He then became the first in our extended family to own his own business, a Carvel Ice Cream store. The one very important thing he taught me was how to be a good proofreader. How Did the Bernardsville Print Center Get Started?
Ape plias derionse pro beriasperro voloribus, test assus mocim quid experat iatiam fugia m faceptaspi.
19
In my junior year of high school, a previous student who also took the same printing/graphics arts class (who went on to own a printing company) called my teacher and asked if he had any promising students he could recommend for a press operator job. After my interview, I started my work/ study program with Budget Print Center of Westfield and stayed with them for 10 years. The company grew very rapidly and I went from being their first employee to production department manager, overseeing a total of 8 pressmen and bindery workers. One day my mom was perusing the classified ad section of The Star Ledger and came across a 3 line ad which read: Print Shop for Sale - Bernardsville - Call (908)766-4073. The following weekend my dad and I drove to Bernardsville and spoke with the owner. When he saw how young I was, he was dismissive. After I told him my experience, with my dad vouching for me, he told me that two other interested people just left, pledging to return during the week with
a down payment. When I asked if he would share their names I then discovered they were my bosses. My dad and I looked at each other and wrote a down payment check on the spot because we knew if my bosses were interested, it’s a good move for me...and we were smart enough to bring a checkbook. Do You Have a Defining Moment in Your Business’s History? A defining moment in my business history was when we move locations from the original spot at 12 Claremont Road, where Anthony’s Pizza is currently, to our current location at 21 Mine Brook Road/Rt. 202. Our sales doubled the first year after the move and we grew so quickly that we expanded next door 5 years later after Somerset Travel went out of business. We actually had a second defining moment just this year, when I purchased the building directly across
the street from our current location, the old Mastro Shoes building. This will give us a larger and better-suited space for business. The space is much more open and we are renovating the space to provide a much more efficient production workflow. Tell us a fun tidbit about Your Business. I am blessed to have a crew that has been with me for decades. We all know each other very well, get along very well, and work together very well. Before many of us had children, we would do a yearly camping/18 mile canoe trip down the Delaware River near Port Jervis, NY, where NY, NJ and PA all share borders. Many great memories were made during those weekends. Was There a Time That You Almost Went Out of Business? There have been three instances which put tremendous pressure on business. Like most businesses, 9/11 had a profund effect on sales and we struggled for 2 years following that tragic event. After the stock market crash in late 2008, we lost 1/3 of our gross sales in a matter of 3 months, which then, sadly, forced me to let go 1/3 of my employees. A lot of that business never came back because, in an effort to save money, many individuals and businesses found the Internet and E-commerce to be a way to cut costs and boost their bottom line. The only way we survived that recession was for me to infuse my own money to keep the doors open. Fast forward to the present and I, like many other fellow small business owners, have had to use more personal money to weather the COVID lockdown. This is why it was so fortunate for me to purchace our new location and become my own landlord. The timing could not have been better. Do You Have a Favorite Quote or Saying? I have more than one favorite quote. “Ask not what your country can do for you
- ask what you can do for your country.” John F. Kennedy “I look to a day when people will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.” MLK Jr. Both quotes hold special meaning to me but the MLK Jr. quote is especially important to me. I have always been an equal opportunity employer. All of my hires have been strictly based on knowledge, experience and ability, so skin color and gender are invisible to me. I have proudly employed black, hispanic and LGBTQ people. At one time females held the majority of employ. I even employed a person in the very early ‘90s who was HIV positive, when most were afraid to hire anyone with the disease. I hire based on a person’s ability, skills, personality, character & merits, nothing else matters. Everyone and anyone, regardless of race or any other immutable charcteristic, gets a fair and equal opportunity as far as I’m concerned. Lastly, I try to live by a saying I have heard various versions of over the course of my life: “Give more than you take and leave the world a better place.” One thing my parents have always instilled in me is always to give more than I take. The selfless giving of time, money or anything else in need is truly better and so much more self-rewarding than receiving. Do You Have a Funny Story to Share About a Time in Your Business? We have come across many famous people and celebrities who have either lived in the area or passed through. I have met or seen a wide variety of people from Jackie Kennedy Onassis to Mike Tyson to Bill Moyers. Bruce Springsteen road through town with a buddy on their Harleys and stopped in the Bernards Café to have lunch. He was very kind and gracious enough to give autographs and photo ops. One time, a customer had us print birth announcements for his grandaughter.
21
After he paid for his order he asked me to reach into my cash register and hand him a $5 bill. Curious and puzzled, I did as he asked and when he looked at it he handed the bill back to me and asked for another. I obliged once again and after looking at that one, he asked for another. Running out of patience and thinking it was some kind of joke, I did as he asked one last time. He looked at it, smiled, placed it on the counter and pulled out his pen. He then proceeded to autograph the $5 directly above one of the 2 signatures that appear on the front of all US paper currency. When he handed it back to me I looked at his signature, which matched the engraved signature on the $5 bill EXACTLY. It was then that I realized this customer was Nicholas F. Brady, former Secretary of the Treasury under Presidents Reagan and Bush Sr., who, I believe, still lives in Bedminster. Unfortuntely, it was stolen off the wall (in a frame) by someone working for an office cleaning company I used back then. If You Could Do It All Again, Would You Do Anything Differently? That is a difficult question to answer. There are some small things I would’ve done differently but, overall, looking back, we’re pretty pleased with our success over the past 31 years. After all, we are the only printer of its kind to survive this long. At one point in the early-to-mid-1990s, we were one of 7
v
printing companies within an 8 mile radius of Bernardsville, with 3 of them physically in downtown Bernardsville. That said, I certainly wish I had the opportunity to purchace and occupy my own space downtown decades ago but those opportunities come up very rarely. When it came up for sale, I actually tried to buy the property where I am currently (which included the spaces currently occupied by Craft Hair Salon, Tsuki Restaurant and Plaza Tikal) but that opportunity arose exactly when the 2008 recession hit and, since I could not get the then-current tenants to commit to leases due to so much uncertainty, the bank would not provide financing. What Are You Looking Forward to in Your Business’s Future? We are looking forward to a business rebirth by spending the next 10(+) years in our new space. My plan right now is to retire in 10 years so depending on whether we sell the business to someone, one of my children succeed me, or simply close remains to be seen...
A Little More About Rich... Significant Other: Children:
Patty
Alyssa - 22, Jason - 20
How Many People Do You Emply?
6
What Products/Services Do You Sell?
We are a one stop printing company. Anything printed onto paper is our forte. We also offer many other related products & services What is Your Business Known For?
Our quality, attention to detail and knowing our customers. We take a personal interest in many of our customers and clients.
113 Morristown Road Bernardsville, NJ 908-766-4411 3 E Main Street Mendham, NJ 973-996-4636 111 Morristown Road Bernardsville, NJ 908-766-4411 4 E Henry Street Basking Ridge, NJ 908-766-1177
Every Shine Child Can Shine Bright this Holiday Season Bring this ad to receive:
FREE REGISTRATION Kumon Math and Reading Center of Bernardsville *Valid at this location only. Offer expires January 31, 2021
75 Claremont Road, Suite 200, Bernardsville, NJ 07924
(908)766-5900 • Kumon.com/Bernardsville
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2020
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE NOT SURE WHAT TO GET THIS YEAR? GET INSPIRED WITH THIS YEAR’S HOTTEST GIFTS FOR HIM, HER, THE KIDS, TEENS, AND HOSTESS GIFTS. by Sharon & Bari Markowitz
Curated and in stock with The Rebecca Collection
For Her
PRACTICAL BEAUTY IS THIS YEAR’S THEME. MAKE A STATEMENT WHEN GIVING THE LADIES IN YOUR LIFE THEIR SPECIAL GIFT. FROM JEWELRY, TO SKINCARE,
BAGS WITH INTERCHANGEABLE STRAPS AND MORE, YOU’LL FIND IT ALL RIGHT HERE.
Statement gold and silver necklaces and bracelets Necklaces range from $16 - $18 Bracelets $16
Vegan Leather Bags and Interchangeable Straps Petite: $60, Mini: $65, Large: $75 Bag straps $35 ea Most Popular colors: Black, Navy, Coffee and Gray
Bogg Bags Hello Mello and Amanda Blu Loungewear $21 ea. Many color and pattern styles ranging from tie-dye to solids.
25
Large $74, Baby Bag $55 Navy, Burgundy, Mint Green and Hunter Green. Accessories and more available up to $39.
Beekman 1802 SkinCare Set Goat milk Bar Soap, Hand & Body Cream, Lip Balm Gift Set. $40
For Him
FOR DAD, HUSBANDS, FRIENDS, SONS, THESE GIFTS ARE MORE THAN JUST PRESENTS. CORKICLE CANTEENS WILL KEEP BEVERAGES HOT FOR HOURS, OR CAMPFIRE GAMES WILL GIVE THEM FUN ON THE GO. HOWEVER YOU CHOOSE, FIND HIM A GIFT HE WILL LOVE.
Lucky Socks Boxed Set $22
Gentlemen’s Hardware Campfire Games $20
Local Artist Reclaimed Wood Bottle Opener $50
Corkicle Canteen $29.95
Gentlemen’s Hardware Manicure Sets $22
Solid Wood Cornhole Set Comes with 8 bean bags. $425
26
For the Host (ess) WHETHER YOU’RE HEADING TO THEIR HOUSE IN PERSON OR MAKING IT A VIRTUAL VISIT, SEND THEM A QUICK GIFT FROM THE HEART. THESE SPECIALTY CHOCOLATES SHOULD REALLY BE IN EVERYONE’S STOCKING THIS YEAR.
Surfs up Candles Medium $16.00 Large $22.00 Scents include Pine cone and Crackling Firewood.
Variety of Specialty Chocolates $6 to $74 Chocolate Covered Pretzels, Non-Perils, Chocolate Covered Marshmallows, Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers, and Chocolate Covered Oreos.
Serving Platters & Dishes Starting $18
27
Reclaimed Wood Coaster Sets $50, Various Colors
For Teens & Kids
FROM BABIES TO TEENS, EXPLORE A RANGE OF
Scout Kate Wristlet $17, Fleetwood Black and Nantucket Navy
CHOICES FOR KIDDOS OF ALL AGES. GET INSPIRED WITH RIDDLEY’S PUZZLES OR CREATE A SPA DAY AT HOME WITH SUPER FUN FACE MASKS FROM WILD + WOLF!
At vero eos et accusamus et iusto.
Chakra Beads Bracelets Designed and handmade to help balance and cleanse your 7 chakras. Starting $38
Riddley’s Puzzles $20, Inspirational Women & Street Food Varieties, Ages 2+
Fuzzy PJs $27, Styles: Tie-dye, Puppies, Sweet Tooth, Solar, Sports
Wild + Wolf Multi Masking Face Masks $12. Color/Scent Variations: “Multi-masking” which includes 2 raspberry face masks, 2 aloe vera hand masks, 2 rosewater lip masks and 2 coconut water eye masks
28
Market HOLIDAY CRAFT
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12 BERNARDSVILLE 10AM UNTIL 2PM TRAIN STATION
PAINT THE BERNARDSVILLE MURAL! IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE FARMERS’ MARKET
DOWNTOWNBERNARDSVILLE.COM
DIGITAL ISSUE EXCLUSIVE
HOLIDAY PLANNING WHEN YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN NEXT. by Olivia Manning, Digital Marketing & Planning Strategist
I
n any other year, you’re coordinating schedules with family, booking travel arrangements, buying tickets for the Polar Express, and looking forward to various events and organized activities traditionally laden with mobs of people. But this year, are you even considering the annual holiday to do list, let alone planning for it? COVID 19 has us all wondering: “what is going to happen next?!” and it is more likely that we are simply at home with our families, taking it all one day at a time. The idea of planning for the holidays seems either so incredibly far fetched or you may have already had your tree up since Halloween. How could anyone possibly plan for the holidays or even beyond that? Believe it or not, it is possible and even if you are not a planner, these 6 tips will help make sure you don’t miss out on building your spirit and enjoying the holidays.
31
1. Start Early. Let’s face it, we all are looking forward to a little holiday cheer this year and the warmth and comfort of the holiday season brings that on in the form of lights, cookies, breaking bread and anticipation for Santa’s arrival. Consider organizing yourself for the months of November and December well enough ahead so you aren’t frantic when December 20th rolls around. Print a calendar template from your word processing program and tape it to a cabinet in your kitchen. On it, write your holiday plans, particularly things like baking cookies, supermarket trips for family meals, and touring lights around town. Take it a step further and create a binder. In it, gather all of the important topics as sections: Calendar, Gifts, Baking, Holiday dinners and meals, Trip plans, Budget, Where to Go, Local Excursions, Lists, Lists and more Lists. Whatever sections make the most sense
for you, get those together and start gathering recipes, stock your pantry with baking essentials, write down some gift ideas for every family member, print some holiday scavenger lists for outings in the car. Since many people aren’t into flying this year, create a driving itinerary, or pertinent information that fits for you and your family’s traditions. If you are Elf on the Shelfers, consider creating a calendar of movements. Organize the different positions and antics your Elf may get into for the entire time he or she is with you for the season. This will absolutely relieve the stress of moving them daily and may help if you tend to forget to move them around. The binder isn’t for daily interaction but a place to remember everyone and everything you need to make an otherwise unusual holiday, a little less stressful.
2. Order Ahead. These days, ordering food items
How could anyone possibly plan for the holidays or even beyond that? It is possible and even if you are not a planner...
online is almost easier than tying your shoes. Driving up to your local store and having someone get the bags in your car is not only a huge time saver but a big relief not having to stand in those long checkout lines. Some organic and/or free range turkeys and hams from local or national butcher companies offer calendars for you to select the date of delivery for your item, so its easy to sit down on November 1 and order your Thanksgiving turkey without having to make room in the freezer. Hunkering for some amazing, farm churned Vermont Cheddar Cheese? Check out SugarBush Farm in Woodstock, VY (Sugarbushfarm.com) and preorder blocks of wax coated cheddar cheese and support a small town farm. Select the date of delivery for your cheeses, so you know they will be fresh right on time for your holiday table. Check out your local farms for your favorite local cheese varieties and other incredibly fresh products. You may be able to arrange ordering ahead for some products or swing by the Bernardsville Farmer’s Market on December 5 and 12! Source your favorite meats, produce, cheeses and more for your holiday tables right here in town.
3. Ask local retailers for an item you found on Amazon. In this pandemic environment, local retailers are doing everything they can to make sure they can stay relevant for you by offering communities new services. From online stores to call in services and requests, virtual appointments, and other limited contact options, before you run to Amazon, try your local retailers for possible gifts they carry. Likely, what they don’t have, they can get for you, wrap it, and bring it to your house (or have it ready for curbside pick up). Plus, local retailers are people just like
33
you, striving to make a living from their storefronts and, these days, doing what they can to stay open. Shopping locally keeps your local economy strong. The stronger it is, the higher home values and greater the appeal for new business owners to open up in your community’s empty storefronts or potential residents to buy up your open inventory of properties. “For every $100 spent at one of these businesses, $68 stays in the community, according to Amy Hartzler, director of communications for the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies, a nonprofit that advocates building strong local economies. That’s more than twice the amount chains reinvest.” Not only does shopping local keep your local economy thriving, but it allows you to instantly receive the items you’re looking for. No waiting for shipping or risking the item being wrong or broken.
4. Come up with new traditions. Many states are discouraging travel, mandating 14 day quarantines for anyone traveling to or from their state. And it goes for driving just as much as flying, so don’t be fooled if you think driving will be easier than flying to family this year. Instead, if you’re planning to stay home, create some new traditions with your family that won’t make it such a challenge. Stock up on a couple new board games, set up some holiday movies and pop some popcorn for a movie night, create a holiday lights scavenger hunt and drive around town checking items off the list. And now that those holiday travel plans have changed, consider taking some of the money you have saved and donate it to a local non profit! Even $100 can go a long way for a non profit to continue doing their
work.
5. Make your space work for you. Working and schooling from home is becoming a staple for families. As challenging as it was at the beginning, it’s still not easy, but now there is a groove everyone is beginning to settle into. Now is a great time to make your home work for you. Upgrade some of your technology to reflect your home’s daily needs. WiFi, for one is a must these days. Just like we need heat in the winter, an internet connection that doesn’t keep up with the demands of every family member on some sort of Zoom call and deter you from being productive. While your internet provider can provide you with some speeds, the way your system is set up, location of the router, wiring, and other aspects can interfere with making the connection solid enough for everyone to complete their day. Making home life more comfortable also goes hand in hand with seamless video streaming and music all over your home. From projector set ups in home theaters to outdoor spaces, technology is one of the leading requests this holiday season. Whether or not you own your home or rent an apartment, the entertainment factor at home is quickly becoming a requirement. While some systems may have multiple moving parts, not all upgrades and enhancements cost a fortune. Call a local audio video technician (like Wavelength Audio Video right here in Bernardsville!) to learn more about what upgrades you could do in your space.
6. Instead of resolutions, goal plan. Everyone talks about 2020 as a terrible year, but consider all of
the amazing challenges you have overcome this year. We have all been through a lot, but we can’t have all the good in our lives without a few challenges. So as you take a moment to think about what 2021 might bring, rather than considering the traditional resolutions, set up some goals that you can give yourself the entire year to complete. While you goal plan, use an effective business strategy called SMART goals. Rather than just simply saying, I want to lose 30 pounds, make it more likely that you’ll follow through with your goals if you are detailed and specific. SMART is an acronym that stands for Specific, Measurable, Attainable,
Realistic and Timely. When planning using this method, losing 30 pounds becomes, “I’m going to lose 30 pounds by New Year’s Eve, 2021, by cutting sugar and eating more veggies. I will also start doing some dance moves for 30-45 minutes most days of the week in my living room as a form of exercise since I love that.” Is it more likely that you will stick to your goals if you talk about running 3 days a week, when you hate running? Setting up SMART goals will not only keep you on track, but make you feel empowered to keep going well beyond January. No one can guess what 2021 will bring. In the world’s history of pandemics, a second and third wave
is a possibility, even with a vaccine. Preparing for all possible situations is the key takeaway. Whatever you celebrate and however you live, consider to plan ahead, preorder your key items, support local farmers and businesses who are here to support you, set up your home for comfort, and focus on keeping whoever is in your quarantine bubble healthy, happy and sane. The holiday season is no different, and to make it special, get it all done as you can, when you can. Perfect is what you and your family love, not a standard. Remember, the holidays are about family, love, rebirth, and celebration. Go into it with holiday spirit, no matter what you celebrate this December.
34
Let’s Make Bernardsville Shine Bright!
HOLIDAY lights competition
Winners recive bragging rights for a full year! (And a sweet trophy)
A F re e eve n t b ro ug ht to yo u by
D O W N T O W N
BERNARDSVILLE Register online to nominate or participate a business or neighbor!
downtownbernardsville.com/holidaylights
HOLIDAY BOOK YOUR
PARTY @ the Movies
Reserve an entire auditorium for your family and friends to enjoy your own movie on BluRay disc on the big screen. Or stream any movie from Netflix, Amazon Prime or Disney+ (with a valid subscription).
908-766-0770 BernardsvilleCinema.com
B E R N A R D S V I L L E
C e l e b r a t i n g 1 0 0 Ye a r s o f M o v i e s
TOY
LEGO® Creator Series: Vehicles & Buildings
Are you ready for the ultimate LEGO® building challenge? The advanced LEGO Creator Expert series includes collectable Modular Houses, Cars, World Buildings, Fairgrounds and Seasonal Sets - and guarantee hours of building enjoyment with every set. Starting $99 Ages 16+
Star Wars Mandalorian Dark Saber
With the Star Wars animated seriesinspired Mandalorian Darksaber Lightsaber electronic roleplay toy, featuring exciting electronic sound FX, kids can imagine battling in epic Lightsaber duels in a galaxy far, far away! $39.99 Ages 5+
Barbie® Color Reveal™
Barbie® Color Reveal™ is the ultimate surprise experience! Use water to reveal the doll or pet; and the surprises are just begining. Unwrap the mystery packs to discover accessories to complete the doll’s outfit or the fashionable pet’s accessories! $6.99 - $59.99 Ages 3+
Tech Deck: Fingerboards & Skateparks
96mm fingerboards featuring authentic graphics from real skate brands and tons of skate accessories! The Starter Kit includes everything you need to get started, including a signature board, a set of killer ramps to master, and trainer clips to give you a hand in mastering the tricks. $11.99 - $29.99 Ages 6+
GUIDE Give Santa a breather, and visit the ONLY toy shop exclusively stocking toys. From the little ones to teens and even “older kids” get them something fun this year. In this guide, check out the top gifts this year, and make sure to call ahead, or stop in Tons of Toys for so much more.
BERNARDSVILLE • MADISON • WESTWOOD • WYCKOFF
38
Little Live Pets: Gotta Go Flamingo
Sherbet is an interactive, toilet-trained flamingo who loves to sing, wiggle, chat back, eat, and poop – on the toilet! Feed Sherbet his Flamingo Food and watch his neck wiggle as he gobbles it all down. When Sherbet’s gotta go, he’ll let you know by signing his catchy song! $39.99 Ages 4+
Nerf Ultra Blasters
Nerf Ultra blasters have advanced design and performance to deliver extreme distance, accuracy, and speed. They include ground-breaking Nerf Ultra darts -- the farthest flying Nerf darts EVER, featuring an innovative flight tip, Aerofin technology, and Nerf Ultra foam. $19.99 - $27.99 Ages 8+
L.O.L. Hairflip Remix & L.O.L. Present Surprise
These fierce B.B.s are ready to take the stage! Find everything you need to complete your L.O.L. Surprise Remix collection. Shop Hairflip dolls, Pets, O.M.G. fashion dolls and more! $14.99 Ages 3+
Paw Patrol Sea Patroller
Fur Real Pets
This hardy vessel transforms from ship to land vehicle in one smooth motion. Slide the bridge forward and wheels drop down, taking you from the high seas to the open road. With the bridge now located at the front of the vehicle, you and Ryder can steer straight to adventure. $74.99 Ages 3+
Welcome to the furReal brand’s family of pets – engaging and often surprising friends that can become a child’s favorite companion. Unlike other plush toys, furReal pets aren’t intended to be merely watched or collected; they’re designed to be played with, lived with, and loved. $39.99 Ages 4+
How to Shop Shop in store (masks required), Call to place an order 908-502-5373 or 908-502-5374, Email totsbernardsville@gmail.com to order, or contact via Facebook or Instagram. As a result of COVID-19, availability of specific products may be challenging. Manufacturing of toys has been heavily affected, as was distribution and shipping. This is for ALL retail, including big box stores. Tons of Toys will work with you to fill your orders as best as possible! Make sure to shop or order early! Gift wrap available for free (Christmas and Hanukkah paper already available!), build toys for free, and deliver locally for free!
39
80 Morristown Road Unit 27 Bernardsville, NJ 07924
•
(908) 502 - 5373
•
To n s O f To y s . c o m
Come Celebrate the Holidays with us!
“Tree Lighting” by Mark de Mos
“Van Dorn Mill” by Mark de Mos
2020 Ornament, “Starry Night Bell” by Jake Pfeifer
Don’t Miss Our Christmas Tree with Hand Blown Ornaments! “Historic Bernardsville” by Mark de Mos
Gallery Hours: 10- 4 PM, Wed - Sat • Masks Required • Kathleen Palmer, Director 5 Morristown Rd (202), Bernardsville, NJ 07924 • (908) 963-0365 • studio7artgallery.com
Your Home Has Never Been This Connected.
SmartHome
Tech
Smart Lighting Home Automation
Commercial Spaces
30 Olcott Square
Be rnardsville, NJ 07924
9 0 8 -7 6 6 - 9 5 0 0 WavelengthAudioVideo.com