HELPING CUSTOMERS TO BOTH SAVE MONEY AND PRESERVE THE ENVIRONMENT IS FOCUS OF NEW JERSEY ENTREPRENEUR

 Dec 14, 2011

Chris Beyer of Technician X Says Inkjet Refill Business
Continues To Grow & Connect With Customers

SKILLMAN, NJ- December 11, 2011– A New Jersey entrepreneur is seeing a significant increase in his Inkjet Refill business which is saving his customers money and preserving the environment. The owner of Technician X, Chris Beyer, indicates that consumers are excited to get a bargain while still supporting a pressing social cause.

The ink used for Inkjet printers is one of the most expensive liquids on earth-- more expensive per milliliter than the finest French champagne, liquid nitrogen or even blood.

"I recently read that if an Olympic sized swimming pool was filled with ink from one of the top major brands, the cost would approach $5.9 billion (with a B) dollars," said Mr. Beyer, owner of Technician X in Skillman, New Jersey.

A single, inkjet cartridge can take up to 1000 years to be broken down and decomposed by nature. Every year, more than 375 million of these empty inkjet cartridges are thrown away and eventually end up in landfills or incinerators.
The good news is that the percentage of recycled inkjets rises each year as Americans are looking for ways to save money in a down economy and are becoming more environmentally conscious. Refilled inkjet cartridges cost about 50% less than new inkjet cartridges.

To ensure quality, TECHNICIAN X refills all ink jet cartridges to the highest quality standards using a state-of-the-art, digital inkjet refilling machine. Every ink cartridge is cleaned, tested and inspected for damage or wear, then precisely refilled and tested again to ensure performance.
Inkjet printer manufacturers maximize their profits when customers replace their empty ink cartridges with brand new ones. That is why they sell their printers at low prices, sometimes lower than the cost of production or even lower than the cost of replacement ink. According to The Wall Street Journal, Hewlett Packard makes two thirds of its corporate profits from selling inkjet ink cartridges.

By using these refilled inkjets, the cost of printing can be reduced dramatically. Choosing ink and toner refills helps businesses and home users save thousands of dollars every year, while the recycling benefits of ink and toner refills keep the planet green. Using printer cartridge refills is easy, simple and safe. To ensure that the refills are made as per professional standards, it is recommended to make use of reliable refill technologies and reputable companies.

Technician X is a local New Jersey company that specializes in printer cartridge ink and toner refill services. It also collects empty inkjet cartridges from end users and recycles them properly, so that they are not thrown in the trash. Technician X is highly conscious about environmental safety. It helps the environment through its inkjet cartridge refill services and through inkjet cartridge recycling.

ABOUT TECHNICIAN X
Located in Skillman, New Jersey, TECHNICIAN X provides expert computer service and repair for both residential and business clients. The company services clients in its shop, onsite or remotely via the web. TECHNICIAN X operates using a philosophy of doing business through local alliances that benefit all levels of the community. For additional information please visit www.technicianx.com or call 609-681-8324.
 

Salon Azzurro – Business Profile Jan 2012

Lisa Neeld  Dec 15, 2011

In 2006, brothers David and Joe Maccarone had been styling hair for 11 and 9 years, respectively, and wanted to open their own salon and work together. They bought what was Peppi’s Salon in Rocky Hill and turned it into Salon Azzurro, a friendly, upscale salon where men, women and children all come to the same salon for the latest in expert styling and coloring and all feel completely comfortable. The brothers are happy to be in business together after working separately for so many years.

“How much better can it be to work next to your best friend,” asks David Maccarone. “It couldn’t get any better!”

“We have tried to create the friendliest and warmest atmosphere,” says Joe Maccarone. “People like coming here. It feels like family.”

David Maccarone had been working for Peppi’s for ten years and Joe worked in Princeton before the two decided to join forces. The brothers’ vision was a high quality salon for both men and women, staffed with expert stylists and offering top-of-the-line services using only the best products.

“We have a great staff,” says David. “They’ve been trained at the prestigious Vidal Sassoon Academy and are hair-cutting educators, as well as national competitors.”

In addition to their high level of training, the ten stylists at Salon Azzurro are attentive, experienced and a true international mix, with French, Italian, Spanish and German all spoken. All are involved in on-going education so they are always current on the latest trends and techniques. They are Wella color specialists and proficient in the Ouidad cutting technique, a special way of cutting, handling and styling curly hair.
“Hair coloring is our specialty,” explains David. “We use Wella professional products and half of our staff are educators for the company,” says Joe.

The Maccarones are aware that some clients prefer men stylists and some prefer women; they make it a point to ask up front so clients always feel comfortable. To take it a step further, they have completely separate areas for men and women including separate entrances. The area for men has a separate waiting area too with a big screen television tuned into ESPN. But it’s not totally men-only – for those preferring a woman cutting their hair, Salon Azzurro has women barbers too. The barbers do neck clean-ups with a straight-edge, the “old school way,” explains David. Salon Azzurro offers facial waxing for men and women in a separate and private room, as well as manicures and pedicures by their award-winning manicurist and pedicurist, both at great pricing.
“We are great at what we do,” says David. “We have created a relaxed atmosphere like an upscale New York salon, but without the attitude.”

For the month of January, Salon Azzurro is offering 15% off Keratin hair smoothing treatments. The treatments reduce frizz and increase shine, and since they fill the cuticle, hair is smoother, shinier and dries more quickly. Keratin treatments are for all hair types and the results last for three to four to months.
“The Keratin treatment is very popular,” says Joe. “It dramatically improves the quality of damaged hair and gives you the hair you’ve always wanted.”

Salon Azzurro carries Pureology, Kenra and Wella products for women and American Crew for men. There is convenient parking and the salon has a handicapped accessible entrance.

Salon Azzurro is located at 133 Washington Street in Rocky Hill. They are open Tuesday 9am-6pm, Wednesday and Thursday 9am-7pm, Friday 9am-6pm and Saturday 8am-3pm. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 609-924-1200. Look for their website to be up and running soon.
 

COLDWELL BANKER RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE ANNOUNCES TOP SOMERSET COUNTY AGENTS FOR OCTOBER

 Dec 6, 2011

Patricia Deseno and Michelle Lee honored as the Somerset County Associates of the Month

Six Agents honored for top production in their offices

Somerset County, N.J. – (December 6, 2011) – Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage is proud to announce its top agents in Somerset County for the month of October. The sales team of Patricia Deseno and Michelle Lee was jointly was named the Somerset County Associate of the Month, ranking #1 in sales production in the Bedminster sales office and among all Coldwell Banker agents in Somerset County.

Four additional agents were honored as Associates of the Month, ranking #1 in sales production in their respective sales offices:

Marie Young, Basking Ridge
Margaret “Peggy” Oblack, Bernardsville
Steven Lebedin, Hillsborough
Cynthia Pagnotta, Warren
 

BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP TO OFFER WORKSHOP ON IMPLEMENTING A CLOUD COMPUTING ENVIRONMENT

 Feb 1, 2012

Thursday, February 9, 2012

BRIDGEWATER, NJ – The Somerset County Business Partnership, in collaboration with the Morris County Chamber of Commerce and Morphlabs, will present “How to Implement a Cloud Computing Environment for Your Business,” a workshop focusing on the future of cloud computing. The workshop will take place on Thursday, February 9, 2012 from 8:00 A.M. to 11:30 A.M. at the Hyatt Morristown, 3 Speedwell Avenue, Morristown, New Jersey.
Cloud Computing provides users with shared resources, software, and information through a paid service over a network.
Presented by seasoned professionals in the information technology industry, the workshop will address the latest cloud computing practices, providing a deeper understanding of the tools and platform choices available to businesses. The experts will provide tips that will help to mitigate risk and potential pitfalls and strategies to decrease costs and optimize performance. Also to be addressed are planning practices for design, deployment, and efficiently scaling applications in the cloud.
The panel will include Winston Damarillo, CEO and Co-founder of Morphlabs; Lee Thompson, CTO of Morphlabs; Bill Ingersoll, CTO and Vice-president, Service Delivery for The Casey Group; and Dhiraj Pathak, Director, PwC. The panel will be moderated by Darryl. S. Brown, General Manager, Cloud & Digital Media, Telx.
“Cloud computing, powered by affordable high bandwidth access to the Internet on computers, tablets, and cell phones, facilitates real-time shared access to data anywhere, any time.” stated Bill Blum, chair of the Business Partnership Technology Special Interest Group. “Understanding of the full potential of the cloud is essential for maximizing communication, productivity, and profitability.”

Fee for the morning session is $45 for Business Partnership and Morris Chamber members and $70 for non-members. Pre-registration is recommended and may be accomplished at http://events.SCBP.org or by calling the Business Partnership at 908-218-4300. Continental breakfast will be served. The session is sponsored by Morphlabs and The Casey Group.
 

Advantage Nassau Tennis! GeoPeak Energy Serves a Solar ACE

 Jan 11, 2012

Nassau Tennis Club has flipped the switch on its newly installed solar system at its Skillman, New Jersey tennis center. GeoPeak Energy was chosen to design and install the system, engineering it as one of New Jersey’s highest efficiency solar systems.

The electricity generated from this system is set to eliminate up to 99% of Nassau’s electrical needs from conventional energy sources and allows the facility to operate on clean, renewable solar power.

The solar energy system is comprised of high-efficiency SunPower 318 watt photovoltaic modules, Sharp photovoltaic modules, and SatCon Inverters. With further energy efficiencies, the 15 court facility will qualify as part of GeoPeak Energy’s list of “Zero Emissions Buildings in 2011”.

“We installed this new generation high efficiency photovoltaic system on a single building and supplied electricity for all buildings and outdoor play areas on site” said AJ Javan, Chief Strategy Officer of GeoPeak Energy. “The SunPower high efficiency modules produce up to 50% higher output than conventional solar panels, which, combined with GeoPeak Energy’s engineering and installation, made it possible to nearly eliminate Nassau Tennis’s dependence on conventional electricity”.

Nassau Tennis has also taken advantage of the GeoPeak Energy Alliance Program, which offers members and employees of the club a discounted solar installation cost, priority service, and additional financial incentives for them to install a solar energy system on their home or business.

A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on Friday, December 16 at the club, and featured Skillman township Mayor and newly elected New Jersey Freeholder Mark Caliguire.
 

COLDWELL BANKER RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE ANNOUNCES TOP SOMERSET COUNTY AGENTS FOR NOVEMBER

 Jan 18, 2012

Joanne Liscovitz honored as Somerset County Associate of the Month

Five Agents honored for top production in their offices

Somerset County, N.J. – (January 17, 2012) – Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage is proud to announce its top agents in Somerset County for the month of November, 2011. Joanne Liscovitz was named the Somerset County Associate of the Month, ranking #1 in sales production in her Hillsborough sales office and among all Coldwell Banker agents in Somerset County.

Four additional agents were honored as Associates of the Month, ranking #1 in sales production in their respective sales offices:

Bruce Yeager, Basking Ridge
Benny “Kevin” Yento, Bedminster
Susan Felter, Bernardsville
Cynthia Pagnotta, Warren

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in New Jersey and Rockland County, New York, a leading residential real estate brokerage company, operates more than 55 offices and more than 3,200 sales associates serving all communities from Rockland County, N.Y. to Monmouth County, New Jersey. Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in New Jersey and Rockland County, N.Y. is part of NRT LLC, the nation’s largest residential real estate brokerage company. Visit www.coldwellbankermoves.com for more information.

KOKO FITCLUB RANKS AMONG BEST IN ENTREPRENEUR MAGAZINE'S 2012 FRANCHISE 500

 Jan 19, 2012

Locally owned "automated personal training studio" part of fast growing national trend

Koko FitClub Greater Princeton, with locations in Hillsborough and Skillman, NJ made its debut this month in the 33rd Annual Entrepreneur Magazine Franchise 500 rankings. On newsstands now, the ranking is regarded as a listing of the very best in the franchise industry, based on a range of objective, quantifiable measures. The company ranked #38 among "Top New Franchises" less than 5 years old, #101 in the "Fastest Growing" category and #399 overall.

Koko FitClub Greater Princeton, owned by Jennifer and Todd Kole is part of a fast-growing community of Koko FitClubs opening across the United States. Franchising since 2008, the company currently has 59 franchised clubs open nationwide and will grow that number into the hundreds by the summer of 2012. In the Greater Princeton area, the first club opened in Hillsborough during October, 2011 and construction is underway in Skillman. The Kole's are planning additional locations in Princeton and West Windsor .

Driving the growth of this innovative fitness company is its one-of-a-kind mix of technological efficiency and completely personalized guidance, providing members with results they used to only see from expensive personal training regimens. The difference? With Koko's patented Smartraining System -- high tech, automated personal training -- Koko FitClub members realize "personal training" level results through highly efficient, customized 30 minute workouts at a fraction of the cost of hiring a personal trainer.

Todd Kole says he isn't surprised to see Koko FitClub ranked in the Franchise 500, considering the company's growth. "What attracted me to this business is what continues to draw new owners and members alike: Koko Smartraining technology. It's truly ingenious and designed to overcome every major obstacle people face when trying to getting fit. And it's proprietary to Koko FitClub, so you can't get it anyplace else." That growth can also been seen locally, according to Todd. "Word about Koko FitClub is spreading like crazy around here because Koko really works. Members love it, and they are raving about their results."

Todd sums up the Koko experience: "Even people who hate 'the gym' love Koko FitClub. Every workout is new and engaging, and there's no "gym scene". Our members stay motivated by what they are now able to achieve - leaner, healthier, stronger bodies. They know that they are always getting the best workout for them, without ever having to think about what to do."

To learn more about Koko FitClub or to schedule a consultation and complimentary Koko Smartraining session, call 908-829-3624 or find them on the web at Hillsborough.kokofitclub.com.

About Koko FitClub
The world's first and only automated personal training studios, Koko FitClub franchises are locally owned and operated with locations across America. Entrepreneur Magazine ranked Koko FitClub among the best franchise companies in their 2012 Franchise 500, Fox Business News featured Koko as a "Booming Franchise" and BusinessWeek hailed Koko as "what the fitness industry needs." Koko is a completely unique take on the personal training studio. Instead of human trainers, Koko FitClub features Koko's patented Smartraining System Technology, developed with assistance from the Founding Director of the MIT Center for Sports Innovation. The personalized, progressive Smartraining programs are simple, efficient and highly engaging with proven results rivaling those of elite personal training at just a fraction of the cost. For additional information visit www.kokofitclub.com or franchise.kokofitclub.com.

About Koko FitClub Hillsborough
Koko FitClub Hillsborough is located at the corner of Route 206 and Amwell Rd adjacent to Five Guys Burgers N Fries, with additional locations opening across the Greater Princeton area in 2012. Drop by or sign up on the web at [Hillsborough.kokofitclub.com or contact Koko by phone at 908-829-3624.
 

IRS Offers Top 10 Tax-Time Tips - IRS TAX TIP 2012-01

 Jan 3, 2012

The income tax filing season has begun and important tax documents should be arriving in your mailbox. Even though your return is not due until April, you can make tax time easier on yourself with an early start. Here are the Internal Revenue Service’s top 10 tips to ensure a smooth tax-filing process.

1. Gather your records Round up any documents you’ll need when filing your taxes: receipts, canceled checks and other documents that support income or deductions you’re claiming on your return.

2. Be on the lookout W-2s and 1099s will be coming soon; you’ll need these to file your tax return.

3. Have a question? Use the Interactive Tax Assistant available on the IRS website to find answers to your tax questions about credits, deductions, general filing questions and more.

4. Use Free File Let Free File do the hard work for you with brand-name tax software or online fillable forms. It's available exclusively at www.irs.gov. Everyone can find an option to prepare their tax return and e-file it for free. If you made $57,000 or less, you qualify to use free tax software offered through a private-public partnership with manufacturers. If you made more or are comfortable preparing your own tax return, there's Free File Fillable Forms, the electronic versions of IRS paper forms. Visit www.irs.gov/freefile to review your options.

5. Try IRS e-file IRS e-file is the safe, easy and most common way to file a tax return. Last year, 79 percent of taxpayers - 106 million people - used IRS e-file. Many tax preparers are now required to use e-file. If you owe taxes, you have payment options to file immediately and pay by the tax deadline. Best of all, the IRS issues refunds to 98 percent of electronic filers by direct deposit within 14 days, if there are no problems, and some may be issued in as few as 10 days.

6. Consider other filing options There are many options for filing your tax return. You can prepare it yourself or go to a tax preparer. You may be eligible for free face-to-face help at a volunteer site. Give yourself time to weigh all the options and find the one that best suits your needs.

7. Consider direct deposit If you elect to have your refund directly deposited into your bank account, you’ll receive it faster than a paper check in the mail.

8. Visit the official IRS website often The IRS website at www.irs.gov is a great place to find everything you need to file your tax return: forms, publications, tips, answers to frequently asked questions and updates on tax law changes.

9. Remember this number: 17 Check out IRS Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax, on the IRS website. It’s a comprehensive resource for taxpayers, highlighting everything you’ll need to know when filing your return.

10. Review! Review! Review! Don’t rush. We all make mistakes when we rush. Mistakes slow down the processing of your return. Be sure to double check all the Social Security numbers and math calculations on your return as these are the most common errors. Don’t panic! If you run into a problem, remember the IRS is here to help. Start with www.irs.gov.
 

What To Do If You Are Missing a W-2 IRS Tax Tip 2012-20

 Jan 31, 2012

Make sure you have all the needed documents, including all your Forms W-2, before you file your 2011 tax return. You should receive an IRS Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement, from each of your employers. Employers have until Jan. 31, 2012 to issue your 2011 Form W-2 earnings statement.

If you haven’t received your W-2, follow these four steps:

Contact your employer If you have not received your W-2, contact your employer to inquire if and when the W-2 was mailed. If it was mailed, it may have been returned to the employer because of an incorrect or incomplete address. After contacting the employer, allow a reasonable amount of time for them to resend or issue the W-2.
Contact the IRS If you do not receive your W-2 by Feb. 14, contact the IRS for assistance at 800-829-1040. When you call, you must provide your name, address, Social Security number, phone number and have the following information:
Employer’s name, address and phone number
Dates of employment
An estimate of the wages you earned, the federal income tax withheld, and when you worked for that employer during 2011. The estimate should be based on year-to-date information from your final pay stub or leave-and-earnings statement, if possible.

File your return You still must file your tax return or request an extension to file by April 17, 2012, even if you do not receive your Form W-2. If you have not received your Form W-2 in time to file your return by the due date, and have completed steps 1 and 2, you may use Form 4852, Substitute for Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement. Attach Form 4852 to the return, estimating income and withholding taxes as accurately as possible. There may be a delay in any refund due while the information is verified.

File a Form 1040X On occasion, you may receive your missing W-2 after you file your return using Form 4852, and the information may be different from what you reported on your return. If this happens, you must amend your return by filing a Form 1040X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.

Form 4852, Form 1040X and instructions are available at www.irs.gov or by calling 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).

Sotheby’s International Realty Brand Strengthens Presence in Central New Jersey

 Jan 31, 2012

PARSIPPANY, N.J. (Jan. 10, 2012) – Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC today announced that Henderson Sotheby’s International Realty in Princeton, N.J., has merged with N.T. Callaway Real Estate, LLC to create Callaway Henderson Sotheby’s International Realty with its headquarters in Princeton.

The newly combined firm will operate five offices located in Princeton, Pennington, Cranbury, Montgomery and Lambertville. Pete Callaway, Norman Callaway, Karen Callaway Urisko, Jud Henderson, Matt Henderson and Jane Henderson Kenyon all will maintain leadership roles.

“Callaway Henderson Sotheby’s International Realty is built on two longstanding traditions of integrity and service,” said Philip White, president and chief operating officer, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. “Both firms are family-owned businesses that have a deep understanding of Princeton real estate and a combined 100 years of experience.”

According to Judd Henderson, both firms share the same core values, and the merger was a natural step that creates one united, powerful presence in the market. “The sharing of all resources will allow each agent to better serve their customers,” he said. “Callaway Henderson Sotheby’s International Realty clients will benefit from our uniquely intimate local market knowledge and the Sotheby’s International Realty network’s global reach among the world’s most prestigious clientele.”

The Sotheby’s International Realty network currently has nearly 12,000 sales associates located in approximately 590 offices in 44 countries and territories worldwide.

“This merger offers us the cutting-edge marketing resources and global exposure of the Sotheby’s International Realty network,” said Callaway. “We are proud to have the distinction of having been one of the brand’s first affiliates in 1976 and are thrilled to rejoin this global network. The greater Princeton market is an extraordinary area that benefits from having one of the world’s top academic institutions in our own backyard. Titans of industry, the world’s most intelligent thinkers, award-winning theatre and easy commuting routes to both Manhattan and Philadelphia provide a quality of life in Princeton not found anywhere else in the world. We are proud to come together to offer our market the very best service and expertise.”

Callaway Henderson Sotheby’s International Realty listings will be marketed on the sothebysrealty.com global website. In addition to the referral opportunities and widened exposure generated from this source, the firm’s brokers and clients will benefit from an association with the Sotheby’s auction house and worldwide Sotheby’s International Realty marketing programs.
 

Top 10 Helpful Features on IRS Website - IRS Tax Tip 2012-05

 Jan 9, 2012

Navigate your way through the tax season online and skip waiting in line. All you need is a computer and Internet access because the IRS website has a wealth of free information and online tax support. Here are the top 10 reasons to visit www.irs.gov.

1. Unlimited access - get answers 24 hours a day, seven days a week If you find yourself working on your tax return over the weekend, there’s no need to wait to get a form or an answer to a question. Visit the IRS website; it's accessible all day, every day. You'll find answers to many frequently asked questions, and the helpful Interactive Tax Assistant is a tax law resource that takes you through a series of questions and provides you with responses to tax law questions. Much of the website and many forms and publications are also available in Spanish.

2. Use Free File Let Free File do the hard work for you with brand-name tax software or online fillable forms. It's available exclusively at www.irs.gov. Everyone can find an option to prepare their tax return and e-file it for free. If you made $57,000 or less, you qualify to use free tax software offered through a private-public partnership with manufacturers. If you made more or are comfortable preparing your own tax return, there's Free File Fillable Forms, the electronic versions of IRS paper forms. Visit www.irs.gov/freefile to review your options.

3. Try IRS e-file IRS e-file is the safe, easy and most common way to file a tax return. Last year, 78 percent of taxpayers - 112 million people - used IRS e-file. Many tax preparers are now required to use e-file If you owe taxes, you have payment options to file immediately and pay by the tax deadline. Best of all, the IRS issues refunds to 98 percent of electronic filers by direct deposit within 14 days, if there are no problems, and some may be issued in as few as 10 days.

4. Check the status of your tax refund Whether you chose direct deposit or asked the IRS to mail you a check, you can check the status of your refund through Where’s My Refund?

5. Make payments electronically You can authorize an electronic funds withdrawal, use a credit or debit card, or enroll in the U.S. Treasury’s Electronic Federal Tax Payment System to pay your federal taxes. Electronic payment options are a convenient, safe and secure way to pay taxes.

6. Find out if you qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit EITC is a tax credit for many people who earned less than $49,000 in 2011. Find out if you are eligible by answering some questions and providing basic income information using the EITC Assistant.

7. Get tax forms and publications You can view and download tax forms and publications any hour of the day or night.

8. Calculate the right amount of withholding on your W-4 The IRS Withholding Calculator can help ensure you don’t have too much or too little income tax withheld from your pay.

9. Request a payment agreement Paying your taxes in full and on time avoids unnecessary penalties and interest. However, if you cannot pay your balance in full you may be eligible to use the Online Payment Agreement Application to request an installment agreement.

10. Get information about the latest tax law changes Learn about tax law changes that may affect your tax return. Special sections of the website highlight changes that affect individual or business taxpayers.

Remember the address of the official IRS website is www.irs.gov. Don't be confused by Internet sites that end in .com, .net, .org or other designations instead
 

Stonebridge at Montgomery’s Skilled Nursing Center Among Nation’s Top 10 Percent for Employee Satisfaction

 Nov 11, 2011

SKILLMAN, NJ — November 11, 2011 — When it comes to a great place to work, employees in the skilled nursing center at Stonebridge at Montgomery say their community is tops. That is the finding from national research firm My InnerView, which says Stonebridge at Montgomery’s nursing center ranks in the nation’s top 10 percent for employee satisfaction.

My Innerview recognized Stonebridge’s achievement with an “Excellence in Action” award and said the community is one of only 263 in the nation with superior employee satisfaction.

“We know that employees who have a chance to meet new challenges and develop new skills are happier in their jobs,” said Thomas Wright, Executive Director of Stonebridge at Montgomery.

“Employee satisfaction is good for us and good for our residents — happy employees tend to give better care,” said Jay Whiteman, Health Care Administrator.

Lincoln, NE-based My InnerView-OCS is a division of National Research Corporation. The company provides applied research and quality-improvement solutions that span the entire post-acute healthcare continuum.

Stonebridge at Montgomery is affiliated with Princeton-based Springpoint Senior Living, New Jersey’s leading provider of senior housing and services. To learn more, please visit www.stonebridgeatmontgomery.org.

December Business profile - InSmile Dentistry – Dr. Purvi Desai

Lisa Neeld  Nov 17, 2011

Following her childhood dream to become a dentist and serve the community, Dr. Purvi Desai has set up a warm, friendly atmosphere for one-stop family dentistry right in the heart of Montgomery.

“I always knew I wanted to do something to serve my community,” explains Dr. Desai. “I was nine when I first visited our new family dentist, a woman. I liked the way she balanced both home and professional duties, and I knew I had found my calling.”

Dr. Desai specializes in family general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, Invisalign orthodontics and dental implant restoration. Patients can come to her for regular check-ups, veneers, most root canals and extractions, regular crowns, bridges and dentures.

Dr. Desai offers her patients two teeth whitening systems: Zoom which is done right in the office, and Nitewhite, which patients can do themselves at home. Nitewhite, explains Dr. Desai, is a great system that is more easily tolerated than most home teeth whitening products, and Zoom is the fastest and strongest teeth whitening system. All it takes, she says, is a morning or afternoon in the office and lasts a very long time. Because of the barrier material Dr. Desai applies to the gums, Zoom is a much better choice for patients with sensitivity in that area.

The office is conveniently located in the First Constitution Bank building at the intersection of Route 206 and 518. It is bright and airy with a comfortable atmosphere, yet modern, clean and offers all the most up-to-date equipment and services, such as digital x-rays and computerized records. There is handicap access to the office through the bank.

Dr. Desai and her staff at InSmile Dentistry pride themselves in the personalized attention they give their patients. When patients enter the office, they are greeted at the front desk by Jigna. She is an expert in helping patients through the complicated maze of insurance coverage, flex planning, payment plans and GE care credit. Olesya, Dr. Desai’s highly-trained and experienced dental hygienist, is as gentle as she in knowledgeable. She performs thorough exams, deep cleanings and gum treatments. Olesya can also give expert advice to patients about which products to use and the proper techniques to use them, and she is great at finding potential problems so they can be treated early.

Energetic, personable and friendly, Dr. Desai has an enthusiasm for dentistry that is contagious. She has been in practice since 1995, lives in the area with her family, and continues to study and take courses to broaden her expertise to serve more of her patients in more ways.

InSmile Dentistry is located at 995 Route 518, at the intersection of Routes 518 and 206 (in the First Constitution Bank building), in Skillman. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 609-683-5651 or visit www.nyfamilydentist.com.
 

Wanted: Hot Yoga Teachers

 Nov 22, 2011

Princeton Center for Yoga & Health is offering Hot Yoga Alignment Based Teacher Training

(November 2011: Skillman, New Jersey) In this economy, many are thinking of new ways to earn an income. Why not get a jump start on the New Year this holiday season and explore a possible new career? Or if you’re already a yoga fan, learn how to deepen your practice. The Princeton Center for Yoga & Health (PCYH) is offering a free introductory class on Hot Yoga Alignment Based Teacher Training on December 10th from 2 to 4 pm and again on January 8, 2012. The actual training begins January 20, 2012-- and meets Friday through Sunday one weekend per month through June 2012. A 500-hour Advanced Alignment-Based Teacher Training begins on July 20, 2012. The Center’s teacher training program is a designated Yoga Alliance Registered Yoga School (RYS®). A detailed schedule and price information visit www.princetonyoga.com.
 

Chez Alice Catering Company and Café Toys for Tots drop off

 Nov 28, 2011

Pennington, NJ - Chez Alice Catering Company and Café is proud to announce they have partnered with Toys for Tots as a drop off location for new, unwrapped toys that will be donated to needy children this holiday season.
Kelly Hamdan, the owner, commented “We are so excited to be a part of the Toys for Tots program and know that the community will assist our efforts to provide toys for needy children in the area. Since we opened in July, our staff has donated all tips to different charities. In August we donated $165.00 to the Susan G Komen Foundation, in September Carrier Clinic received $172.00 and in October we sent $240.00 to Toys for Tots.”
The Chez Alice Catering Company & Café, located at 7 Tree Farm Road, Suite 100 is open Monday through Friday from 7 am – 4 pm and on Saturday from 11 am to 4 pm. The Café serves a variety of breakfast items and lunch options that include soups, salads, quiche and specialty sandwiches. The catering office is also on site to discuss your upcoming parties and special events. Please call Chez Alice Catering Company at 609-737-1199 with any questions or if you need further information.
 

Special Pricing on Early Delivery Homes at Popular 55+ Community in Montgomery Township

 Nov 30, 2011

Montgomery Township, NJ, November 2011: Award-winning builder Sharbell Development Corp.’s luxurious Tapestry at Montgomery community is offering special reduced prices for early delivery homes that can close in as little as 90 days. And there is still time to select most of the interior finishes to truly create a dream home.

Right now, homebuyers aged 55+ can own one of these early delivery luxury single-family homes for as low as $482,500 or $399,000 for a duplex style home. And they can still select flooring; including hardwood, tile and carpet; all kitchen choices, such as cabinetry, countertops and appliances and more.

The special pricing is available on select “early delivery” home sites in this elegant active adult community that includes homes with 2 to 3 bedrooms, 2.5 to 3 baths, and range in size from 2,119- to 2,861-square-feet. Included in these homes are two-car garages and full basements (excluding certain duplexes), some of them walk-outs!

“These homes are perfect for those who want the comfort of selling their current home first before purchasing a new one. The homes can typically be ready 90 days from contract signing, but the buyer can still choose the interior items to suit their tastes,” says Bobbe Britton, community manager. “And with our special pricing, these homes are an unbelievable value.”

This is a great opportunity to become a part of the Tapestry community at a fantastic price. Not only is Tapestry at Montgomery just minutes from downtown Princeton, but it offers homeowners a wealth of social and recreational activities. Inside the clubhouse is a cozy community room with an elegant stone fireplace, as well as a grand multi-purpose room with adjacent catering kitchen – ideal for parties and other social gatherings. The sports lounge has a bar area, pool table and large-screen TVs. There’s also a card room, fitness center, and library. The outdoor pool is also open.

The appealing home designs, convenient location and numerous in-home and onsite amenities, make this community a favorite for active adults who want low-maintenance living in a spacious home.

Visit Tapestry at Montgomery, tour the clubhouse and the three beautiful model homes, and discover this great opportunity to buy into a sophisticated new way of life. The special pricing is available on select “early delivery” homes only and does not apply to all homes.

Directions: From the Princeton area: Take Rt. 206 North and make a left onto Rt. 518. Make a right onto Vreeland Drive and a left onto Acadia Lane. Follow signs to sales center and models. From Pennsylvania: Take Rt. 202 North to Rt. 31 South. Turn left onto Rt. 518 and then make a left onto Vreeland Drive and a left onto Acadia Lane. Follow signs to sales center and models. From the North: Take Rt. 287 South. Take Exit 17 to Rt. 206 South. Continue for approx. 13 miles to traffic light at Rt. 518. Make a right onto Rt. 518. Make a right onto Vreeland Drive and a left onto Acadia Lane. Follow signs to sales center and models.

For more information on Tapestry at Montgomery, please call (609) 688-6833; or visit www.sharbell.com. The Tapestry at Montgomery Sales Center is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., except Wednesdays and Thursdays.
 

MG Estate Sales – Business Profile

By Lisa Neeld  Oct 13, 2011

In the 30 years Maria Gage and her husband Brian ran Brian Gage Antiques in Hopewell, they garnered a great reputation with their clients and in antique and auction circles because of their knowledge, expertise and the quality of their merchandise.

Three years ago after a short illness, Brian passed away. Maria found herself in the difficult position of running the business on her own. She also embarked on a process to reinvent herself after such a devastating loss. Out of that process, MG Estate Sales was born, with a new, yet familiar, point of view that grew out of what she already knew and extended it in another direction.

“When we lived in northern New Jersey, we always went to estate sales,” explains Gage.
In her estate sales business, Gage works with many local realtors and estate administration attorneys to help their clients. Most of her business is from referrals because of her reputation and experience. Gage goes on to explain that there are several reasons an estate sale may take place – a death in the family, job transfer, downsizing or moving to an assisted living facility or nursing home. Any kind of change or transition can bring up difficult feelings, she says, even if it’s a positive change.

“People feel vulnerable,” she says. “They’re in a transition – and I am too. I have knowledge and experience with loss. I can approach the sale more compassionately. And while I’m helping them, they are helping me too.”
There is a common misconception that an estate sale has to be made up of antiques and rare items, when in fact it can be any combination of them or even only everyday household items. Everything can be sold, says Gage, even things that are contemporary and not considered high end.

“Estate sales are an easy and efficient way for people to realize profits quickly,” she says.

The first step is to call Gage for an in-home consultation. She will assess what a person wants to sell and advise what to sell and how to sell it. For example, some things might do better at an auction house than at an estate sale, and it is easier for her to place these items in an auction than the average person. Since she’s been in the business so long, she has numerous connections and various outlets in which to sell any kind of item.

“There are lots of different avenues for specialty items,” she explains. “And there is a buyer for everything.”
After the initial consultation and evaluation, Gage will price items, stage the house, and run print and internet ads for the sale. After the sale, which typically runs two days, she will take care of the clean up and advise about donating options if anything remains. She also offers a clean-out service.

“I’m in a position where I can be more compassionate and use my knowledge to help people in an efficient and profitable way,” says Gage. “My husband was very generous with his knowledge and expertise, and I see this as an extension of his legacy.”

Her many loyal customers will be glad to know Gage has not given up her beloved antiques business. Maria Gage Antiques shares space with a group of dealers in Umbrella on the second floor of the Tomato Factory in Hopewell.

Maria Gage Antiques is located at Umbrella on the second floor of the Tomato Factory, 2 Somerset Street, Hopewell. For more information or to set up an appointment for an estate sale, call 609-468-6769