Founded in 1938, the Rotary Club of Fanwood-Scotch Plains has been helping support local communities, our neighbors, and those in need around the world through a broad range of educational, humanitarian and cultural programs. Its mission: To provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders.
“The club was formed to get together and be a force to do good,” says Mary DePaola, who became a member back in 2009 when she was serving on the Scotch Plains Township Council (she later became the mayor).
Its 47 regular members and six honorary members come from all walks of life and professions and have many different passions. “If you have a passion, come to the Rotary,” says its president and former Scotch Plains mayor, Al Smith. “We have the group that can help you get it done.”
The club is always looking for new members who want to carry out its mission. The group meets four times a month and at different times of the day and evening, so it’s convenient for all schedules. To learn more and/or become a member, go to FSPRotary.org.
Upcoming events:
El Centro Food Pantry in Plainfield– food distribution the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month
Mental Health Crisis and How You Can Help presentation at Darby Road on February 28 at 6:30 pm
50/50 Raffle – Tickets sold at various locations around town from April through May
Find more details about these events on its Facebook page Facebook.com/FSPRotary?ref+ts
Written for Scotch Plains Lifestyle magazine in New Jersey.
Xplosive Entertainment has been providing upscale DJs, games, and “event enhancements” for fun and unforgettable events for almost 20 years. While it offers a wide variety of options for every kind of celebration, it’s best known for producing bar and bat mitzvahs leaving guests, young and old, with cherished memories for years to come.
“In our world, there are dozens and dozens of competitors, but they’re not all on the same level,” says Michael Langsner, vice president and self-described event ignitor, who has also spent years as a DJ and former banquet manager. “What makes us different is a level of polish, class and charisma, that we put forth based on our experience and how selective we are in who we hire and how we train.”
In addition to its DJs, its talent pool includes MCs, dancers, and live musicians. Behind the scenes, experienced technicians handle the lighting and sound and help make the magic happen.
Xplosive also offers a fun inventory of games. “There’s everything from air hockey and foosball to ping pong tables,” he says. But, there are many unique custom-built items such as giant-sized versions of these standard games, like a 20-person foosball table or an LED illuminated pong table.
The company’s Photo-tainment is also a hit, and uses the latest technology to produce high-quality photo booth experiences. Audio guest books are also hot right now. “Imagine a voice recorder disguised as a retro rotary telephone to record guests messages which are shared with the hosts later on.”
Novelty food kiosks are another unique offering. These may include fun foods from the venue itself, or favorites from popular chains.
For bar and bat mitzvahs, having a nationally-recognized magician, or mentalist, during the cocktail hour is a highlight for both kids and adults. Xplosive also offers what’s called a “Silent Disco” where guests wear provided headphones. “We always jump on the trends of what’s cool, but this is also a great solution for two different scenarios,” says Michael. “One is outdoor parties with noise ordinances, and two, for parents who may have very different musical interests than their kids.”
Xplosive provides entertainment all over the tri-state region as well as out of the area. “We’ve found ourselves in around 15 different states and three countries so far.”
Every detail is tailored to the preferences of the host or guest of honor. Michael and his extraordinary staff consider themselves industry experts, as they host a podcast with over 100 episodes called “Mastering Mitzvahs” and they’re often asked to present at conferences and trade shows.
Its upcoming event expo is NJ’s largest mitzvah party showcase taking place on Sunday February 11th in North Brunswick at B’nai Tikvah. “It’s a live, interactive opportunity for families to come and try the games, experience the photo booths, win prizes and join a live mock mitzvah.” Register at SuperBowlShowcase.com
Whether your party is for 50 or 500, Xplosive Entertainment guarantees to elevate expectations.
A place for delicious food, great conversation and a commitment to community
By Sue Baldani
Gregory Kay and Ronnie Vojka, owners of Fabio’s Bistro on South Avenue in Fanwood, believe in more than just serving a good pizza or a plate of chicken parmesan. “Our recipes are made with love,” says Greg. “It’s a place where friends become family.”
In business for seven years, the casual, homey atmosphere makes it a fun place to hang out, eat delicious food, and have great conversations with family and friends. Or, walk in to pick up some take out and be greeted by a warm and friendly staff who will often greet you by name.
“I want to believe Fabio’s stands out because of the quality of food, the quantity of food and the people customers meet while dining here,” he says. “We use the finest of ingredients in all of our menu items, and take pride in our dishes so we won’t change our flavor. Our pizza is a big hit – we make several different styles. In 2023, we were voted #1 on the Slice app in the country which consisted of over 18,000 pizzerias.”
The amazing pizza varieties include the Thin Crust Brooklyn Square pie, a Broccoli, Zucchini and Mushroom pizza, a Margarita and Fresh Mozzarella, a Buffalo Chicken and a Taco pizza. There’s even a gluten-free option for those who desire.
For dinner, start off with some mouth-watering appetizers such as the fresh and flavorful Bruschetta, Sweet Mussels Marinara, Hot Fried Calamari, or Meat Rice Balls. Then, move on to the entrees which range from the traditional Fettuccine Alfredo and Chicken Marsala to an Italian Surf and Turf and Shrimp Oreganata. Meat lovers and vegetarians alike will find many things to love about the menu. And bring the kids – there’s a great children’s menu with all their favorites.
Of course, there are also salads, soups, hot and cold subs, wraps, calzones, stromboli, chicken fingers and so much more available. You’ll never be disappointed in the number of options.
Fabio’s is also a wonderful local place to hold small celebrations such as birthday parties, graduation celebrations, and anniversaries. “In the summer, we also have outdoor seating which enables us to have a few more guests,” says Greg. And, if you’re having a private party at home or a large event at a venue, Fabio’s Bistro can provide catering for those affairs too.
Feedback from customers has always been very positive, but if anyone does express a concern, Greg and Ronnie will do their best to make things right. “We take their input to heart because ultimately that’s what keeps us going,” says Greg. “What makes owning a business in Fanwood special is that Fanwood and Scotch Plains are really remarkable towns. They are smaller in size and families are involved in local events, organizations and town happenings. Everyone seems to know everyone.”
He and Ronnie also enjoy speaking and keeping in touch with the people who keep the towns operating, such as those in the town hall, local dignitaries, and mayors, and those who ensure the safety of the community like the police officials and officers, fire chiefs and firefighters, and EMTs.
“Everyone is always stopping in and checking on us,” says Greg. “Anytime we need anything, we know we’re a phone call away from assistance or direction. It doesn’t get better than that.”
The Bistro is also a big believer in giving back. “We try to be involved with the community as much as possible and support Scotch Plains/ Fanwood’s organizations, events and teams,” he says. “We know the hard work our local clubs, sport teams and organizations put in to make our town even better.
“We get approached by many and do as much as possible to make everyone happy. Since all of our customers are like family to us, we do all we can to help them out. We love doing for our community – our community is our family.”
He and Ronnie also help feed veterans on an ongoing basis. “Since they opened their doors, Fabio’s has provided ongoing support to these brave men and women, and because many of them experience food insecurity, it’s a lifeline and a safety net,” says veterans advocate, Steve Hackenberg. “Ronnie and Greg, and the customers who put their dollars into the donation jar, have made a tremendous impact in these veterans’ lives.”
The owners are very excited for the future and have big plans in the works. “We’ve purchased the former Sheelen’s Crossing [located right across the street],” says Greg. “Because of the support from the community, we’ve outgrown our footprint at our current location. We have been planning this for some time and now it’s time to make it happen.” They hope to have the new location up and running by December 2024.
To revisit, discover and enjoy all that Fabio’s Bistro has to offer, go to FabiosBistroMenu.com, call (908) 274-2038 or order on the Slice app. Whether you dine in, take out, or have it delivered, you’ll be in for a real treat.
Buon appétito!
Written for Scotch Plains Lifestyle magazine in New Jersey.
While Jill Fordyce loves being a lawyer, she always wanted to write a novel one day. On January 30, that goal was realized when her book, Belonging, was released.
What drew you to writing?
For me, story is the most powerful thing we have as far as understanding each other. To be able to create a story from things I’ve either observed or experienced and be able to put that out there just always felt really, really important to me.
Describe your style of writing.
I feel like I learned more about writing from listening to music and lyrics than I did from studying literature. When I was first writing this book, I wanted it to feel the way a favorite old song makes you feel, and for it to feel universal so people could connect their own experiences to it.
What inspired you to write Belonging?
My original inspiration for the book was this idea of a childhood friendship that was so deep that it kind of guided each of the parties throughout their lives, across distance and time, and even death. And, I wanted to tell that story from Jenny’s [the protagonist] point of view because it was also important for me to write a book that conveyed the experience of growing up in a home with an alcoholic mother in a very intimate and realistic way.
Since I have experienced alcoholism in my own family, when I recognize a young girl who has those same types of traits as the character – being very independent but also needing a type of nurturing she maybe did not receive as a child – I wanted to be able to speak to her through story and character.
How do you want people to feel when they read Belonging?
My biggest hope is that they feel less alone by really being immersed in Jenny’s life and finding her as somebody they can relate to. One of the themes of the book is forgiveness and this ability to forgive the alcoholic in your life and move forward with grace and peace in your own way. I hope that the book itself conveys a sense of warmth and hope.
You live in California, but bought a home in Leiper’s Fork in 2018. Why was that?
We just love it here – it’s so beautiful and peaceful. It also has accessibility to all the arts with the music and great literary communities nearby. I love the village and being close to downtown Franklin as well. It’s such a friendly place.
My next book, which I’m working on now, will actually take place in Middle Tennessee.
You can find Belonging at Barnes & Noble and wherever books are sold. Jill will also be at Bound Booksellers in Franklin on February 10th from 1:00 pm to 2:00 p.m.
A small group of volunteers is making a big difference in the lives of animals, and now you can help too. Best Friend Dog and Animal Adoption, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is holding its annual Tricky Tray on Saturday, April 20, 2024, from 12:00 pm to 4:30 pm at the Shackamaxon Country Club in Scotch Plains.
Attendees will enjoy a delicious brunch that includes an assortment of muffins, bagels and croissants, farm-fresh scrambled eggs, brioche French toast, and fruit platters, along with mimosas, coffee, tea, fruit juice, and hot chocolate in a lovely, upscale atmosphere. Ticket holders will also get to try their luck at winning some exciting prizes. And, to be entered into a Mystery Prize Raffle, just bring some cat food to donate.
Come out for a fun day with friends and family. You might leave with a basket full of goodies or a treasured item, but if nothing else, you’ll know you made a difference in an animal’s life.
Tickets, which must be purchased in advance, are available through the mail and online. Please email bestfriendadoptnj@gmail.com to learn more.
Also, be sure to visit Best Friend’s cute little thrift store on East 2nd Street that’s chock full of wonderful merchandise for shoppers of all ages.All funds raised are used to help the pets in their care with spaying and neutering, boarding, food and veterinary bills. The shop is also a drop off spot for much needed cat food, litter and dog food.
When you walk into Prezzo Restaurant in Warren, which has been a staple in town since 2011, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled to a lovely Italian village. In fact, the restaurant is named after Prezzo, a small, picturesque town in Northern Italy. Once you taste the food, you’ll really feel like you’ve been transported there.
The experienced and talented chefs design and create authentic Tuscan dishes, and can bring joy to any palate. If someone has a dietary preference or restriction, such as gluten-free or vegetarian, they will gladly accommodate those needs too.
Some of the restaurant’s most popular dishes include the Branzino Picante, Osso Bucco, and the Pappardelle with Short Ribs. The antipasti includes such delights as Balsamic Marinated Portobello, Clams Posillipo, Insalata Caprese and Calamari Fritti. Pasta dishes include Fusilli Puttanesca and Penne Arrabbiata, and the Caesar, Beet and Prezzo salads are full of freshness and flavor. There are also daily specials that showcase the different regions of Italy.
“Prezzo Restaurant uses fresh produce,” says its owner, Remi, who has an extensive restaurant background. “During the summer months, it’s grown locally, so the tomatoes, basil and everything else put into the dishes is very fresh. In the winter, we pay for the best in the market.” Its seafood, chicken, veal and beef are also of the highest quality.
The restaurant encompasses a large space, so tables are not crowded together and diners can enjoy a wonderful, quiet dinner with family and friends. “Beyond our main dining area, Prezzo Restaurant proudly offers an exclusive party room, catering to an array of celebrations, from delightful baby showers, vibrant birthday parties and elegant bridal rehearsals to intimate weddings and various social gatherings,” he says.
“Moreover, this versatile space transforms seamlessly for corporate luncheons, boasting amenities like flat-screen TVs ideal for impactful presentations during professional meetings.”
If a party is being held outside of the restaurant, Prezzo will also provide catering for both large and small affairs. Customers can pick up trays of food, or for larger events, it will provide the entire set up with steamer trays and servers. For those who want to enjoy a flavorful Italian dinner at home, the restaurant also offers takeout.
The building in which Prezzo Restaurant is located has undergone a major renovation over the past four years. “It was a huge disruption to business, and I want to thank our customers for a lot of support and patience,” says Remi. “But I’m happy to inform them that all the construction is now finished. The facelift of the building is really very nice and we now have plenty of parking.”
With its warm earthtones and tasteful artwork, and linen-covered tables with sparkling crystalware, diners love to linger and savor the experience, and are made to feel like a member of the family. As they like to say at Prezzo – Grazie e Benvenuto (Thanks and Welcome!)
For more information, go to PrezzoNJ.com or call 908-755-0032 to make your reservation.
An artist who brings his creations to life and celebrates the magic of coming together
By Sue Baldani
For Ricardo Roig, being creative is a way to make sense of the world and at the same time make it a more wonderful place to live. “Art really has the power to uplift and bring people together, and so not only do I do that authentically by being an artist, it’s just who I am,” he says. “It has always been a part of me.”
Growing up in Westfield, he loved to sketch people he knew, including his fellow students. In 2006, one of his professors introduced him to the technique of cutting shapes out of paper to create depth in his works. “Using that technique, I created The Room, and it unlocked something inside of me. It was like falling in love or into a new universe.”
Today, Ricardo is well-known for his hand-cut stencil-layered paintings. “I don’t define myself; I always find myself, but I can say that my style is modern, innovative and vibrant,” he says. “I didn’t want to be just another artist – I wanted to provide something new to the world so that it could inspire people in new ways. And I love doing it. It brings me to life and is a physical manifestation of my spirit.”
Many of his creations depict people and places from his hometown, like the Rialto theater, as well as other places he’s visited and people he’s met throughout his life. While his work The Room was his first love, another piece that has a special place in his heart is The Trumpeter. “In 2017, I created The Trumpeter after visiting Nick’s, a jazz club outside of Boston. While there, I could see this trumpeter blasting away and doing what he loved. When I created this piece, I developed color, but I also wanted people to hear and feel the instrument.”
Depicting this musician made him realize that as an artist, his style and talent will always evolve. “The Room was my first piece, but then every piece I’ve done since then has been an evolution of it.”
Now living in Scotch Plains with his wife, Michelle, and children, 5-year-old Ricardo and 2-1/2-year-old Matias, he was honored to be asked to do the artwork for the February cover of Scotch Plains Lifestyle magazine. “For this issue, I wanted to have a new piece that I was inspired to do specifically for my children’s hometown. I’m so proud and blessed to live and raise my kids here.”
His goal was to depict the image of downtown, and include places where he and his family spend time. Black Drop Coffee, where he stops regularly, is there, as is the steeple of the church where Ricardo attends daycare.
While many artists are solitary, Ricardo believes in the power of people coming together. “When you can come together, it’s just magic, and that’s what this cover is all about. The magic of people coming together and what they’re trying to do here.”
In addition to owning and running two galleries with his wife in Hoboken at the W Hotel and in Westfield, he’s also the artist-in-residence at Kean University. He’s excited to be holding a show there on January 25.
“I’m half Cuban and half Dominican, and I grew up with good values and I’m happy to share myself and my talent with others,” he says. “When you share your heart with the world, the world grows smaller as your heart grows bigger.”
Ricardo receives commissions for his talent from all over the country, and would love to make a special piece for your home or business. To see his unique and exceptional works of art, make an appointment to visit one of his galleries, and also check out his Instagram page.
“Allowing myself to put myself in other people’s shoes, sharing kindness, showing up for the moment, and being mindful – all of that goes into my art.”
RoigCollection.com
Written for Scotch Plains Lifestyle magazine in New Jersey.
A young woman overcoming adversity one card at a time
By Sue Baldani
“I hope my cards bring a little bit of happiness to each person that gets one,” says Janey Carter, founder of Paper by Janey. “I hope when people hear my story, I encourage them and show them that, no matter what, anything is possible!”
She definitely has proven that anything is indeed possible. In 2017, Janey was in a car accident that damaged her spinal cord, causing her to be partially paralyzed from the neck down. She was only 17 years old. Instead of sinking into despair, she found a way to bring joy not only to herself, but to others as well.
“What I love most about making cards is the opportunity to create something meaningful that will bring a smile to someone’s face,” she says.
It all started in 2020, when COVID shut down the world. Using watercolor paints, Janey decided to make Mother’s Day and other cards people could order online to spread some cheer. “I made little cards with Bible verses on them and I sold more than I expected,” she says. “People were excited to have a card made by me! So next I made Father’s Day cards and birthday cards. Things continued to be successful so I just kept going.”
Janey’s ideas are inspired from the world around her, and she also loves doing custom work to make other people’s ideas come to life on paper. In addition to cards, she makes invitations, announcements and anything else customers desire.
Subscription Boxes, which arrive every January, April, July, and October, are another fun offering. “Each one contains 20 cards (worth $60) for just $30 each time,” she says. “They’re a convenient way to keep a ready-to-use supply of cards on hand, making it easier to send cards whenever you need to.”
There’s also a bonus surprise included in each package such as bookmarks, coupons for her website, tags for presents and very unique plantable cards. “A plantable card is a greeting card made from biodegradable paper embedded with seeds,” says Janey. “They can be planted instead of discarded. The paper decomposes and the seeds grow.”
In addition to creating beautiful keepsakes, she also shares information and tips about living life with a spinal cord injury. “By sharing my own experiences, I aim to connect with others as they go through challenges as well,” she says. “Inspiring others to live their best lives despite challenges is important to me because I believe in the incredible strength that lies within each person.”
This is her way, she explains, of bringing positivity to the world. “When people embrace their resilience, they not only improve their own lives but also impact the lives of those they touch. Plus, seeing someone embrace their potential and find strength in adversity is incredibly fulfilling and, in turn, inspires me to continue supporting and uplifting others.”
What makes her cards so special, she explains, is the story behind them. “With time, perseverance, and a shift in perspective, I discovered ways to adapt, discovered new passions, and found alternative ways to contribute and make a difference in the world. And I think that is what people appreciate the most.”
While many of Janey’s cards can be found on her website, they’re also available in stores in over 18 states across the country, including Tennessee, New Jersey, Alabama, California, Texas and Wyoming.
To give your special someone a very special card this Valentine’s Day, go to PaperByJaney.com, and check out more of her lovely creations on the sites below.
Instagram: @PaperByJaney Instagram.com/PaperByJaney/ & @JaneyCarter_ Instagram.com/JaneyCarter_/ Facebook: Paper by Janey YouTube: @JaneyCarter1036 Channel/UCVlbsg7C_DKyoIOKd_cWHwg TikTok: @JaneyCarter Tiktok.com/@JaneyCarter
Written for Franklin Lifestyle magazine in Tennessee.
Enjoy great food, win fun prizes and meet your neighbors
The Scotch Plains Rescue Squad’s 14th annual Pancake Breakfast will take place on Sunday, February 25, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at its building located at 1916 Bartle Avenue. This event is hosted by the Scotch Plains Rescue Squad Auxiliary, which raises funds for the volunteer squad.
All-you-can-eat pancakes and sausage, along with coffee and juice, will be offered for just a $7.00 per person entry fee (children 5 and under eat free). There will also be a raffle for baskets, which are filled with gifts and goodies donated by the community and area businesses.
It’s clear by the number of people who attend that it’s something the community looks forward to every year. So, come out with your family and friends and enjoy a hearty, delicious breakfast along with good conversation. It’s a nice way to spend a Sunday morning and give back at the same time. And for those with mobility issues, downstairs dining will be available.
The Scotch Plains Rescue Squad Auxiliary meets once a month, and its grass roots function is to assist the Squad in many capacities – from holding fundraisers and providing meals during crises to performing outreach to squad and fellow auxiliary members. Members also attend town functions, such as fairs, concerts and holiday events, in order to connect with the community and promote Squad interests.
When Silk Road opened in Warren in 2004, most people in the area weren’t familiar with Afghan cuisine. “Some people like to put us in the same category as Indian, but it’s nothing like that,” says Mohamed Sidiqee, whose parents, Hashim and Naomi Sidiqee, founded the restaurant.
Hashim, a longtime Warren resident, immigrated to the U.S. from Afghanistan in the early 80s and later wanted to share his love of the food from his native country with his new community. The recipes used in the restaurant have been passed down from Hashim’s family.
In the beginning, many of their customers were those who were familiar with the food because they had lived in that area of the world. But then they started coming back and bringing their friends, who had no knowledge of the cuisine.
“They were really surprised by our food and the ambience, and then those new customers started bringing in their family and friends,” says Naomi. These people eventually became not just customers, but friends of the family. “That is how we survived in this business. It’s our loyal customers. We are so thankful they keep coming.”
She says Hashim is a perfectionist. Every part of the restaurant – the kitchen, dining room, and restrooms – are always kept clean and sanitary. “And the food is prepared from his heart – that’s how he does it.”
Customers’ favorites include lamb chops and shanks, and salmon, lamb, and chicken kabobs. “All of them are marinated and they’re so flavorful, but none of the spices are hot,” says Mohamed.
The food is also very fresh and prepared in a healthy way. The family cuts its own meat and makes the yogurt, cheeses and flat bread served in the restaurant. The bread is baked fresh in a tandoor oven for every customer and is accompanied by Hashim’s homemade condiments.
Entrees come with a salad and a variety of unique rice medleys. The most popular is the Naringe Palow with orange peel, saffron, pistachio and almonds. Others include the Kabli Palaw, made with brown rice and topped with carrots and raisins, the Ladam Palaw with spinach, and the Chalaw, a lightly seasoned rice with Afghan spices. Vegetarians can order these rice dishes as entrees and add in vegetables grilled to perfection.
After dinner, customers can choose baklava, rice pudding, custard or elephant ears for dessert.
The atmosphere of this Afghan and Mediterranean restaurant is very warm and comfortable. “It’s like you’re walking into someone’s house,” says Mohamed. “Once someone comes in, they always want to come back. Plus, we serve a lot of food, so they usually take some home to have the next day.”
Adds Naomi, “We raised our children here and they learned the business. This is a family legacy that we would like to pass down to our three children.”
Silk Road is also a great place for private celebrations such as anniversaries, birthdays, and weddings. Catering is available as well.
To make reservations, call (908) 561-8288, and for more information, go to SilkRoadRestaurantNJ.com.
Something So Write 