At Ross & Calandrillo, we are dedicated to providing exceptional legal services with a personal touch. With decades of experience, we offer compassionate and effective representation tailored to your needs. Our areas of expertise include:
• Family Law and Related Matters: Divorce, custody, support, and more.
• Simple Wills: Protect your loved ones with a straightforward estate plan.
• Residential Real Estate Closings: Guiding you through seamless home buying or selling.
Conveniently located in Mountainside, we are proud to serve the Scotch Plains community with integrity and personalized attention. Let us handle the legal details so you can focus on what matters most.
LETTER
Invest in What Matters
Hello Scotch Plains and Fanwood! First, we want to thank this awesome community for the tremendous enthusiasm and kindness we received after our first issue launched last month. Trying something new is always a little scary. Trying something new in front of your whole town is a lot scary! You put our fears to rest with your positive feedback and generous offers of support. Thank you for cheering us on! We are moved to know you are invested in our success. Speaking of investing.... April is our Investment Issue! (see what we did there?)
We decided to put our own spin on the theme of investment by focusing on the many facets of life that are worthy of our precious resources: Time, money and energy are well placed when the return is happiness, wellness and security for our families.
For us, our investment remains rooted in this community, and sharing the stories that make our town so special. It has been truly rewarding to get to know the businesses and people that are passionate about delivering a better life to the people of Scotch Plains and Fanwood.
Please consider investing in the advertising partners that support all of us! Cheers!
TERRY AZAD, VERONICA KAUTZ @SCOTCHPLAINSCITYLIFESTYLE
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Veronica Kautz | veronica.kautz@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Terry Azad | terry.azad@citylifestyle.com
INTERN
Sophia Mekbeb
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Terry Azad
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Chelsea Doyle, Eric Priel, Jessica Reiss Photography, Photos by Craig Smith
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Proverbs 3:5-6
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Former Mayor Al Smith celebrates his 81st birthday with friends, family and fans! 2: The ladies of SPF celebrate friendship on Galentine’s Day at Darby Road 3: Karl-Anthony Towns of the NY Knicks visits his Alma Mater, St Joe’s in Metuchen 4: Coaches, players, cheerleaders and families gathered at the SPF PAL Awards Banquet. 5: Scotch Plains City Lifestyle’s newest publisher celebrates her 50th birthday with husband Mike 6: The Fanwood-Scotch Plains Rotary puts service before self as their guiding principle. 7: Scotch Plains’ favorite pup gets a stunning haircut from In-N-Out Dog Wash in Colonia.
Want to be seen in the magazine?
ERIC KAUTZ
ERIC KAUTZ
JEREMY ARNOLD
STEVE GOLDBERG
WILMA LOSES
HEATHER CROWLEY
CURT BRAND
908-518-0788
jose.monroy@edwardjones.com
business monthly
Panini Bistro Opens in Fanwood
Panini Bistro celebrated its Grand Opening in Fanwood on January 25th, surrounded by family, friends and local dignitaries including Mayor Colleen Mahr. Located at 226 South Avenue in Fanwood, this is the fourth restaurant in a chain of family owned bistros. The expansive menu serves up their signature paninis alongside hot and cold sandwiches, burgers, fries and a wide assortment of wings, Panini Bistro is a welcome addition to town!
In N Out Dog Wash Opens 2nd Location
Mike "the dog guy" Kelly opens his second IN•N•OUT™ Self-Service Dog Wash & Full-Service Grooming Salon at 427 Lake Avenue in Colonia, NJ. Following the success of his first location in Garwood, Mike's team of caring and experienced groomers will ensure your pup leaves happy and clean. A convenient 5-10 minute ride from most parts of SPF, pet owners will receive top-quality services at affordable prices. And there's a doggy bakery!
Coffee with Mary: Real Estate Questions answered at Blackdrop
Coldwell Banker Real Estate professional Mary DePaola has launched a new series to help local residents gather information on the ever changing real estate market. "Coffee and Questions with Mary" will take place every 4th Thursday from 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM at Blackdrop Coffee located at 431 Park Avenue. If you have questions, Mary has answers!
LIVE YOUR STORY
ARTICLE BY TERRY AZAD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHELSEA DOYLE AND EDWING HERNANDEZ
John, Christine and Gene at their new storefront
In 2021 I decided I HAD to move. Not out of Scotch Plains, just out of my house. I mean, my floors had become HIDEOUS, so clearly I MUST move! Thankfully, rational thought soon returned, and instead of packing, I installed beautiful wideplanked hardwood floors throughout my home. Why do you wait to invest in the upgrades that improve your life? It makes sense to put money into your home to increase the sale value - but so does loving your home while YOU live there. Christine Escribano, CEO/Principal Designer for Cherry Home Designs is passionate about helping clients renovate and transform their spaces to “live their story”.
Christine at work
The team collaborating
The Russo Home Transformed
Together with husband and business partner, John PIzzi (President, Casa Construction) and Gene Salerno (Owner, Wild Edge Designs), she helps clients to visualize, design and construct projects that bring value to their homes, and to their lives. It is easy to like this team. They love what they do. They are exceptionally talented. And they're just plain cool. It is no wonder that small projects inevitably turn into large multi-room engagements. Once a client sees the results that can be achieved, they want more and a long term relationship is formed. This is true of a recently completed project in Westfield.
The Spier family loved their home but had a major issue: the kitchen simply did not function. They had previously engaged Christine to help restore a treasured antique and knew her team was the right one to take on this project: A complete kitchen transformation. A new layout was designed that made sense and created flow. The pantry was transformed into a wine bar with a unique “style wink” that was created through custom artwork tile. Showstoppers like Taj Majal quartzite backsplash, walnut countertops and sage cabinets delivered the kitchen of the Spier family’s dreams.
Spier Kitchen "After"
“We couldn’t be happier with Christine and John. From the design process through construction and decorating they were with us every step of the way. They truly care about the customer and the end result was amazing!”
- The Spiers
When the Russo family was ready to renovate their home they too hired the dream team! They shared the details of their daily life with three children, and a love for entertaining. It did not take long for them to realize that to live THEIR story, they would need more than their originally planned kitchen renovation. The first step was to take down the wall separating the dining room and kitchen to improve flow. Next, doors were installed off the kitchen leading to a new expansive deck that serves to maximize entertaining space. Existing hardwood floors were refinished with a light matte stain that brightens the entire house and is easy to maintain.
Custom tile
Much needed function was provided with the addition of a butler’s pantry housing a dedicated coffee bar and custom built storage seating. They even raised the ceiling by 7 inches. Design elements helped to showcase these improvements: Gallery walls, portrait murals, under cabinet lighting, painted fireplaces, hardware, upholstery, and of course, throw pillows.
You can find Christine, John and Gene at their new Scotch Plains location, 1737 East 2nd Street. Experience the store by viewing pieces in progress, finish walls and an extensive material library. Don't wait until you are ready to move, live your story and love your home today!
Unique Hardware
New space is open and light
Custom-built, beautiful and functional
Photo cred: Edwing Hernandez
Where academic excellence meets community spirit.
FOOD TRUCK
May 3 at 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Join us for a day of food, fun, and Viking pride!
Enjoy delicious food trucks, live music, a beer & wine gaden, kids’ activities, and more.
Scan the QR for more information!
Future
ARTICLE BY TERRY AZAD
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Union Catholic is more than an education; it’s an investment in your student’s and family’s future.
Investment
It does not take long to notice a difference when you visit the campus at Union Catholic located on Martine Avenue in Scotch Plains. The sense of pride is palpable. It comes from each student and faculty member that walks by, knowing they are a part of something bigger than themselves. It is visible on the hallway walls and the banners waving in the gym. Pride lights up the electric signage at the front entrance, recognizing the school’s accomplishments for all to see.
From a financial investment standpoint, UC’s Dual Enrollment Program offers students the opportunity to earn the equivalent of a full year of college credits while enrolled in high school. There are 24 Endowed Scholarships Opportunities and almost 40 other scholarships/funds available including monies dedicated to every grade level. The graduating class of 2024 was awarded an astounding $29,774,432 in Scholarships, including Ivy League and top colleges. This does not happen by accident. UC staff have forged relationships across colleges and universities to be able to proactively advocate for their students, whether it be for acceptance or additional funding.
The leadership at Union Catholic will tell you, “This isn’t just a school; it’s a launchpad for success, shaping students into confident, wellrounded individuals prepared for whatever path they choose”. Since opening their doors in 1962 Union Catholic has committed to providing families with far more than just a High School education and academic excellence. An investment in Union Catholic delivers long-term opportunities that extend well beyond graduation.
What differentiates Union Catholic? Approximately 600 co-ed students coming from across 5 NJ counties enjoy 6 learning levels to ensure individual success. The 14:1 Student to Faculty ratio allows educators to identify students’ unique needs whether it be additional support or advanced challenges. It is no wonder Union Catholic boasts a 100% college acceptance rate.
Perhaps the greatest thing that sets Union Catholic apart is the vast network of over 12,000 alumni who have gone on to thrive in prestigious careers across industries. From Fortune 500 companies to groundbreaking entrepreneurs to NJ Supreme Court justices to Gold Medal Olympians, UC graduates make an impact wherever they go. And they help out their fellow alumni. Students graduating from Union Catholic lean into the alumni network for letters of reference, job interviews and coveted internships. The value of the alumni network is immeasurable, particularly for young people entering the workforce.
Union Catholic is well regarded for its Athletics Program with over 25 varsity sports and championship teams. What a lot of people don't know, however, is that it has also led the way with technology. UC served as pioneers using laptops in the classroom as early as 1997 and recently earned a Responsible Artificial Intelligence in Learning (RAIL) Endorsement
Perhaps most importantly, Union Catholic is focused on character building; always working to foster authentic leadership in its students. With exclusive access to leadership development programs, career exploration opportunities, and mentorship from successful professionals, students are led by example to lead by example.
The sense of pride you feel walking the halls of Union Catholic is well earned. Every student embraces and embodies the core values of Respect, Responsibility, Honesty, Compassion and Community. They represent these qualities every single day, and throughout their lives passing them on to future generations. And the impact of that is… priceless.
For more information visit Union Catholic for their Spring Open House on April 9th from 7-9. All are welcome!
RAIL Endorsement
Championship Girls and Boys Basketball Teams
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The Value of Peace of Mind
Secure your family’s future with trusted advisor Steve Goldberg of Family Investors Company
I remember the day I felt the most “adult” I had ever felt. It was the day I purchased a supplemental life insurance policy for my family to ensure they would have what they needed financially if I had an untimely passing. It wasn't necessarily a hard decision, but one that certainly made me reflect on the weight of responsibility I held, even after being gone. I was oddly proud of myself for being such a grown-up. It felt good.
Steve Goldberg, an independent Account Executive at Family Investors Company in Fanwood, is no stranger to helping others with their own “adulting”. A specialist in Life Insurance and Long Term Care Insurance, Steve guides clients every day through decisions that ultimately give them peace of mind and make them feel good.
“The most important thing I do is educate my clients about the products and options available to meet their current and future needs. This is always a two-way conversation where I learn about their life and their goals”, says Steve.
ARTICLE BY TERRY AZAD PHOTOGRAPHY BY CRAIG SMITH
For life insurance products, Steve walks clients through the benefits and differences between coverage types, all of which may be good options - but at varying points in the client’s life. Long Term Care Insurance, however, is where he sees the biggest hole in a person’s financial plan. The majority of people living today can expect to need some form of long term care in their lives - but most are not prepared to navigate the unexpected costs associated with it.
Long term care insurance covers a variety of needs from custodial care, ongoing care in a nursing home, assisted living residence or other facility. Perhaps most importantly, it puts a cost coverage solution into place that can remove some of the worry and stress from the family navigating a loved one's care. Many think that government programs such as Medicare and Medicaid will pay for all of their future long-term care needs when in fact they only pay for limited services and have many restrictions.
These topics can be hard to discuss, but Steve Goldberg makes them easy. It is no surprise that so many of his clients are long term relationships; built on years of trust and expert guidance. He has spent nearly 40 years in Scotch Plains with his wife Patricia, raising 2 children and now enjoying his grandchildren. You will often find him at Fabios Bistro - his favorite lunchtime spot where he is a regular. He is always amongst friends and quick to introduce and connect people he knows. This is not surprising for a man who has immersed himself in the community; filling leadership roles in the Fanwood-Scotch Plains Rotary, the local chapter of Business Network International and serving as Scotch Plains’ favorite Santa for over 25 years.
Wherever you are in your adulting journey, you can trust Steve Goldberg to guide you through the decisions that are best for you. He makes the hard conversations easy and clients always leave his office feeling good.
Steve can be reached at stevegoldberg@familyinvestors.com or 908.322.1800
Steve at Fabios Bistro
LOVE YOUR SKIN
An Investment in regular facials will pay you back with healthy and youthful skin
ARTICLE BY TERRY AZAD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA REISS PHOTOGRAPHY
Visit any of the local town Facebook pages and you will undoubtedly find neighbors and friends praising and recommending Spavia Clark Commons. People rave about the massage therapists, estheticians and the exceptional customer service that they have not experienced elsewhere.
“We only hire the most qualified, educated estheticians and therapists,” says Christina.
Many of the comments say "I love Liz". Spavia's Manager, Christina Frezel will tell you "EVERYBODY loves Liz!". And why wouldn't they? Liz is the smiling face at the spa's reception who makes sure you feel welcomed as soon as you enter. She goes out of her way to provide whatever you need to enjoy your spa experience during your stay.
Owners Ryan and Jennifer Manville opened the Clark Spavia location in 2020 bringing a luxury day spa experience to the towns surrounding and including Scotch Plains, where they also reside. Clients of Spavia love the resort-like amenities that include relaxation rooms, robes, slippers, and aromatherapy
neck towels. Unlike other massage businesses, they also have shower facilities and a full array of toiletries to ready yourself before and after your treatments.
There are a variety of ways to invest in your personal wellness, and Spavia offers many of them! Services include a wide range of treatments from massages, to body wraps, to spray tans and facials. More and more clients now are specifically investing in a regular facial routine and the results are undeniable. "Our most consistent customers are the ones who receive regular facials," says Ryan. “They can see the benefits immediately, but they also see their skin continue to improve more over time. They look and feel better.”
Why is skincare so important? 80% of people have skincare concerns, whether it be aging, wrinkles, rosacea, acne or hyperpigmentation. At Spavia, estheticians take the time to understand their clients' concerns and create a personalized treatment plan that tackles their specific issues. Membership packages make it easy for clients to maintain a regular schedule of monthly facials at affordable prices. This, combined with a good at-home skincare regimen can save clients from potential future expenses that are far less relaxing.
"We only hire the most qualified, educated estheticians and therapists," says Christina, with the Age Defense Facial currently being the most popular. It defends your skin from the aging process with ingredients that hydrate, brighten, and tighten your skin. A blend of enzymes, alpha hydroxy acids, Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid nourish and plump skin for the perfect anti-aging skincare treatment. The goodness does not end there. Each facial Includes a deeply relaxing facial massage, as well as a neck and shoulder massage with warm stones.
The personalization at Spavia carries across every aspect of your visit. Clients can choose from 60 minutes or 100 minutes of hands-on treatment. You can choose the music, the bed temperature and the level of conversation. An investment in yourself from start to finish!
And in case you are wondering, YES, your mother wants a Spavia membership for Mother's Day.
Google Reviews
The Luxury of Time Well Spent
TRAVEL EXPERT SHARI ERASMUS PLANS THE PERFECT GREECE GETAWAY
When the time came for Scotch Plains resident Heather Priel to plan her dream 50th birthday trip, she made one quick and easy call: to Shari Erasmus of Inspired Escapes. Why spend hours researching, planning, coordinating and stressing when she could rely on Shari's expertise and connections to build an itinerary that would create lifelong memories for her whole family? In the end, Heather and Eric Priel spent two glorious weeks traveling through Athens, Mykonos, Paros and Santorini with their three daughters. Shari curated a trip uniquely designed for their family and delivered what they value most: time together.
"Many people have misconceptions about using a travel agent," says Shari. "Not only is there no cost to the client traveler but I can leverage my resources and relationships to deliver exclusive perks like complimentary upgrades, daily breakfasts, early check-ins and late check-outs, spa credits, airport transfers, welcome drinks, and more".
And yet - we all convince ourselves we can get a better deal; that our internet research will guide us to the must-see attractions and best restaurants. The Priels know better. They know that time is its own luxury that comes as much from the planning end as it does from the trip itself.
Greece is a great destination for couples, friends and families alike. It offers history, culture, beautiful islands, and amazing food. Thanks to Shari the Priels enjoyed first-class accommodations with plenty of perks, seamless transportation between locales, and pre-booked excursions. She even scored them dinner reservations at a few hidden gems known only to locals.
Wherever your dream travels take you, give yourself the luxury of time. Call Shari to take care of the details, big and small. Watch this space for regular travel content to inspire your next getaway!
ARTICLE BY TERRY AZAD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIC AND HEATHER PRIEL
Heather and Eric Priel in Santorini
Come See Mira Vie!
College Club of Fanwood-Scotch Plains Annual Fundraiser
The Westwood, Garwood | 12:00 PM
The College Club of Fanwood-Scotch Plains will hold its annual fundraising event on Sunday ,April 27, 2025 from noon-4pm, at The Westwood, Garwood, NJ. All proceeds from this Spring Fundraiser will benefit our Scholarship Fund, which annually awards scholarships to local women. Anyone interested in purchasing a ticket for this event can visit our website at: fspcollegeclub.org or can contact CC President Jean Naugle at: 908-654-5460.
Dueling Pianos Fundraiser benefitting global humanitarian efforts
Shady Rest Country Club 820 Jerusalem Road, Scotch Plains | 6:30 PM
Come for a night of fun with an all-request singalong, dinner buffet, tricky tray and 50/50. BYOB and BYO wallets! Hosted by Fanwood Scotch Plains Rotary and the Kampala Rotary in Uganda to raise money for a Rotary Global Grant. Funds will kick start a sustainable education program in the poorest parts of Uganda. Limited tickets - get yours today!
