Scott's NJ Blog - Luxury Homes/Top Towns

Fanwood Christmas House 2021

December 3, 2021 by Scott Gleason

On Sunday, December 5th, the Borough of Fanwood lights its Christmas tree. Santa even promises to make a stop beforehand. But, on Saturday, December 4th, he puts in a quick trip to the Fanwood Christmas House. He would love to see you there.

The Fanwood Christmas House is lit up and ready for the 2021 Christmas holiday season and ready for viewing through the end of the year. Santa plans a visit on Dec 5th. All they ask in return is for you to make a donation to the New Jersey Institute for Disabilities (NJID).

Fanwood Christmas House 2021

Yes, the Christmas House is back! While the house lit up for the season on the day after Thanksgiving, Santa could not make it until this weekend. And he promises presents for good little boys and girls who visit him between 4:30 pm and 7 pm. The Fanwood Policeman’s Benevolent Association donated refreshments for the event as well. But if you miss the festivities tomorrow, you can still enjoy the light show through the end of the year.

Lights for a Cause

While homeowner Greg Roser loves entertaining the community, the motives behind his holiday efforts run to a more charitable cause. The years of work put into each holiday display are to encourage people to donate to the New Jersey Institute for Disabilities (NJID). When you come to see the display in person, please drop off a donation in the secure lockbox located right next to the front door of the house at 83 Paterson Rd. Any amount is welcome. (No donation is too small.) If you wish to write a check, make it out to the NJID. Cash can be securely deposited in the lockbox as well. Mr. Roser accepts checks made out to NJID by mail, too. Every donation he receives during the holiday season goes directly to the NJID. You may also donate directly by visiting the NJID website here.

Another NJID Fundraiser

On December 15h, Fabio’s Bistro on South Ave. hosts a fundraiser for the NJID. The owners pledge to donate a large percentage of lunch and dinner sales on that day to the NJID. This includes both dine-in and take-out. So, instead of cooking that day, maybe you should have Fabio’s take care of it for you.

Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Realty – East, NJ Luxury Homes

Fanwood Tree Lighting Ceremony and Holiday Celebration 2021

November 26, 2021 by Scott Gleason

I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Now that it is over, it’s time to get ready for the next big holiday: Christmas. We only have four more weeks until Christmas Eve. So, to kick off this part of the holiday season, make plans to come to the Fanwood tree lighting ceremony and holiday celebration.

The Christmas season doesn't officially start until the Fanwood tree lighting ceremony and holiday celebration take place.

What: Fanwood Tree Lighting Ceremony & Holiday Celebration 2021
When: Sunday, December 5th, 3 pm to 5:15 pm
Where: North Ave Train Station parking lot
Admission: FREE
Contact: Fanwood Recreation (908) 370-7092

Fanwood Tree Lighting & Holiday Celebration

This year’s holiday celebration and tree lighting take place completely outdoors no matter what kind of weather we see that day. Starting at 3 pm, enjoy free refreshments while listening to holiday music play in the background. Partake in one of the contests scheduled for the day. You might win a prize! The tree lighting itself takes place at the end of the day’s events (5 pm). But that part of the celebration only takes about 15 minutes. So, you do not want to be late or you will miss it.

Santa Claus is Coming to Town!

As a special treat, Santa decided to take a quick holiday away from the North Pole. He plans on flying in just for the afternoon of December 5th. He wants to visit with as many boys and girls as possible. To do so, you need to reserve a time with the big guy ahead of time. To make your reservation, visit the Fanwood Community Pass website here. Sign in to your existing account or create a new one. (It’s free.) Then, click “Browse Activities” to find the “2021 Fall Camps and Programs” tab. Once you click on that, scroll down until you find the tree lighting ceremony tab. Register using your name, not your child’s name. One registration time accommodates your entire family. Happy holidays!

Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Realty – East, NJ Luxury Homes

Scotch Plains Kindsgiving 2021

November 19, 2021 by Scott Gleason

‘Tis the season of giving: thanks, time, a helping hand. Last year, in the midst of a pandemic, several local organizations got together to help those in need during the holidays. They managed to raise $7000 for local food pantries and delivered 75 meals to people for Thanksgiving. This year, they hope to surpass that and help even more people in need. You can assist them with their goal by contributing what you can to Scotch Plains Kindsgiving 2021.

Help your neighbors experiencing food insecurity get through the holidays by donating to the Scotch Plains Kindsgiving. The deadline to donate is Nov 22nd.

What: Scotch Plains Kindsgiving 2021
Where: Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA (1340 Martine Ave, Scotch Plains)
When: Now through November 22nd
Contact: FSP YMCA (908) 889-8880

Scotch Plains Kindsgiving 2021

How You Can Help

First, go grocery shopping. When you do, include some extra food items to help create Thanksgiving meals for our less fortunate neighbors. Then, take these items to the Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA and drop them off in the designated bins in the lobby. Second, donate a grocery store gift card in any denomination. Most stores conveniently keep these near the register when you check out. You may also donate online if you prefer. All of the money received gets used for buying more gift cards to distribute to those experiencing food insecurity this holiday season. Finally, consider volunteering your time. Donations need to be separated, organized and delivered to our local food pantries.

What Foods to Donate

Broth (canned or boxed)
Cereal (boxed)
Corn bread mix (boxed)
Cranberry sauce (canned)
Evaporated milk (canned)
Foil pans (disposable for baking turkey)
Juice (boxed)
Gravy (can or jar)
Mac & Cheese (boxed)
Mashed potatoes (boxed)
Pie crust (ready-made)
Pie filling (pumpkin or apple, canned)
Pumpkin (canned)
Rice
Soup (canned or boxed)
Stuffing (boxed)
Vegetables (canned)
Yams (canned)

Scotch Plains Toy Drive

Now that the bellies are taken care of, let’s turn our attention to some Christmas joy for the kids. Joint Motion Physical Therapy hosts a toy drive between now and December 15th. Simply drop off new, unwrapped presents, socks, hats, scarves, or hats at their office (373 Park Ave.) between 8 am and 8 pm every Monday through Thursday except for Thanksgiving Day. Please donate what you can to make sure all of our kids experience a very merry Christmas this year. Thank you.

Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Realty – East, NJ Luxury Homes

November 2021 Market Update

November 18, 2021 by Scott Gleason

Please click below for the market update of interest to you:

Westfield by Grade School:

Scott Gleason scott@luxuryhomesnj.com

Cranford Thanksgiving Food Drive 2021

November 12, 2021 by Scott Gleason

Last month was all about scarecrows and the Addams Family. This month, we give thanks for the many blessings we received over the last year. Unfortunately, some people may not have been as blessed as you. To help them through this holiday season, please add a few items to your grocery shopping list and bring them to the Cranford Thanksgiving Food Drive 2021.

What: Cranford Thanksgiving Food Drive 2021
Where: Cranford United Methodist Church (201 Lincoln Ave E)
When: Saturday, November 13th, 10 am to 1 pm

Cranford Thanksgiving Food Drive 2021

Giving to others not only helps them but it makes you feel good, too. Consider donating food to Cranford UMC’s food drive this Saturday, November 13th. Just bag up the items you want to donate. Then, place them in the trunk of your car or bed of your truck. After that, drive to the church parking between 10 am and 1 pm. Volunteers will then take the items out of your vehicle without you ever having to physically interact with them. All donations received go directly to local organizations like St. Joseph’s Social Services and Cranford Family Care.

Can’t make it to the donation site on Saturday? Drop them off in the bins located just outside the church near the Little Free Pantry. The Little Free Pantry located in the church’s parking lot accepts donations 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. People experience food insecurity year-round, not just during the holidays. So, if you can give a little something every so often, it helps.

Items Requested

Shelf-stable non-perishable food items requested for donation include:

Apples
Applesauce
Broth
Cookies
Cranberry sauce
Fried onion packets
Garclic
Gravy
Green beans
Mashed potatoes
Onions
Pie filling
Potatoes (bagged)
Pudding
Salad dressing
Seasonings (salt, pepper, spices)
Stuffing
Sweet potatoes (bagged)
Yams

After you drop off your food for the food drive, head over to First Presbyterian on Springfield. Get started on your Christmas shopping or find interesting decor for your Thanksgiving table this year at their craft Fair from 9 am to 4 pm. Thanksgiving arrives in less than two weeks. Then, just 29 days of shopping left until Christmas after that. You don’t want to dally or you may miss out on great gifts to give.

FEATURED WESTFIELD AREA LISTING

Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Realty – East, NJ Luxury Homes

Cranford Craft Fair: Start Christmas Shopping Early

November 4, 2021 by Scott Gleason

Did you take advantage of the wonderful fall scenery of downtown brought to you by the Cranford Scarecrow Stroll? If not, you now have to wait 11 more months to see it again. I highly suggest that you add it to your calendar so as not to forget. Now that Halloween is over, it is time to look forward to the next big end-of-year holidays. In three weeks, we celebrate Thanksgiving. But you might want to focus on Christmas. Even with 49 shopping days to go, kinks in the supply chain mean that you might run into availability issues for gifts on your Christmas list. Fortunately, the Cranford Craft Fair promises plenty of gift ideas so you can begin to start checking off names on your list.

What: Cranford Craft Fair
Where: First Presbyterian Church (11 Springfield Ave)
When: Saturday, November 13th, 9 am to 4 pm
Contact: First Presbyterian (908) 276-8440

Cranford Craft Fair

Do you have hard-to-shop-for people on your Christmas list? Looking for something unique to give as hostess gifts this year? Or do you just want to make your home cozy and beautiful for the holidays? Dozens of local artists and artisans set up shop at First Presbyterian Church to sell their wares. You will find everything from handmade jewelry, blankets, and clothing to artwork, kitchenware, and decor.

In addition to arts and crafts, First Presbyterian Church hosts a bake sale. So, pick up some delicious bread, pies, cakes, or other goodies for your friends or guests. And make sure that you keep some to enjoy for yourself.

Organizers request that all guests wear masks while walking around the fair. Social distancing will also be enforced while on the grounds. Please keep your health in mind as well as others around you while visiting. If you feel ill, please stay at home.

End of Daylight Savings Time

Just a reminder. This Sunday, November 7th, Daylight Savings Time ends. That means that we turn our clocks back one hour on Sunday. Get ready for that early evening sunset. Happy holidays!

Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Realty, Luxury Homes

Cranford Scarecrow Stroll 2021

October 22, 2021 by Scott Gleason

Westfield gets their Addams Family Fun throughout October. But they are not the only ones enjoying the season. The Cranford Scarecrow Stroll 2021 takes place from now through Halloween. And organizers need your help to decide on who wins prizes.

The annual Halloween favorite Cranford Scarecrow Stroll is going on right now. Take a walk and take a vote for your favorites.

What: Cranford Scarecrow Stroll 2021
Where: Downtown Cranford
When: Now through October 31st
Contact: Downtown Business & Economic Development Office (908) 709-7208

Cranford Scarecrow Stroll 2021

The Scarecrow Stroll originated in 2008. At that time, 111 scarecrows lined the streets of Downtown Cranford. Last year, more than 100 unique scarecrow creations showed passersby a spooky/silly time. And that took place during the heart of the pandemic. This year, the township hopes that we see the biggest turnout than ever before from our local business owners and families.

Registration for creating these scarecrow scenes already closed earlier this month. But you still play a crucial part in this beloved event. Anytime between now and the end of the month, visit any of our downtown boutiques and restaurants. When you happen upon a scarecrow on the street, make note of its location. If you like it, write it down on the ballot you received in the mail and deposit it in the Eastman Plaza mailbox. If you need a ballot, pick one up at the Cranford Library, the local community center, or any of the businesses located in Downtown Cranford. Winners in each category receive $100.

We see so much creativity in these scarecrows. Past strolls included Lego scarecrows, Harry Potter scarecrows, the Stay-Puft marshmallow man scarecrow, a Sharknado-themed entry, and a Back to the Future scarecrow scene. The imagination and effort put forth from participants in the Scarecrow Stroll truly amazes us all each and every year. Take a walk, shop a little, eat a little, and make sure to vote for your favorite entries in the Cranford Scarecrow Stroll. Winners will be announced after October 31st.

Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Realty, Luxury Homes

October 2021 Market Update

October 15, 2021 by Scott Gleason

Curious about your home’s value?

Please click below for the market update of interest to you:

Westfield by Grade School:

Scott Gleason scott@luxuryhomesnj.com

Coldwell Banker RealtyLuxury Homes for Sale in Westfield

Addams Family Fun Day 2021

October 15, 2021 by Scott Gleason

The calendar says “October”. In Westfield, that means just one thing: AddamsFest! COVID tempered last year’s AddamsFest event. But this year’s event promises to be as big and bold as ever. Earlier this month, the Mask-erade Ball kicked off the 2021 AddamsFest festivities. This weekend belongs to Addams Family Fun Day 2021.

What: Addams Family Fun Day 2021
Where: Quimby St, Downtown Westfield
When: Sunday, October 17th, 10 am to 5 pm

Addams Family Fun Day 2021

Organizers outdid themselves this year. First, do some pumpkin decorating with the docs at Atlantic Medical on Central from 10 am to 12 pm. Then, once an hour (starting at 10:30 am), local author Peter Lyons provides a live reading of his illustrated children’s book “Tonight, Tonight is Halloween” on Quimby St. The Maniacs Pumpkin Carvers create amazing carvings live before your very eyes all day long. This is definitely one of the sights that you should definitely put at the top of your Family Fun Day “must-see” list.

Wonder sponsors the Quimby St. game area. Try your hand at skeeball or cornhole. Use the claw to grab yourself a neat prize. Watch live entertainment on the main stage all day long. For bonus fun, wander over to the corner of Broad and Central to see local artist Norman Kirby’s latest art installation set into the chainlink fence lining the street.

Other AddamsFest Festivities This Month

Charlie’s Ale Garden has been postponed to October 17th (5 pm to 10 pm) in the Westfield Armory. The James Ward Mansion hosts a lecture on the origins of Charles Addams’ work called “The Hidden Addams” at 7 pm on October 20th. Tickets for Dudley’s Drive-In go on sale today for the screenings of The Addams Family 2, Scream, and Night of the Living Dead. Spaces are limited to just 100 cars. So, make sure you buy your tickets now. Finally, the Rialto hosts special screenings of cult classics The Rocky Horror Picture Show (October 22nd) and The Blob (October 29th). Tickets are on sale now.

Bike MS NYC 2021

While Addams Family Fun Day takes place in Westfield this Sunday, me and Team Guys and Dolls will be in Manhattan participating in Bike MS NYC. We almost reached our fundraising goal. But, as of the writing of this post, we are still a bit short. Please, please help us meet our $12,000 goal. Click the Donate Today! button on the left or visit our Team Guys and Dolls fundraiser page here. No donation is too small and it all goes to a fantastic cause. Thank you!

Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Realty, Luxury Homes

Bike MS NYC 2021 – Help Us Reach Our Fundraising Goal

October 6, 2021 by Scott Gleason

We are back. Team Guys and Dolls has been participating in Bike MS NYC for two decades now. In the past, we did so in support of my sister-in-law, Diane, who valiantly fought Multiple Sclerosis (MS) for years. Unfortunately, she also fought a battle against COVID last year and lost. So, now we ride to honor her memory. But the good news is that events like this raise much-needed funds to find medication to help treat this debilitating disease. In fact, the medications have been successful enough to warrant advertising on TV. But we need your help to reach our Bike MS NYC 2021 fundraising goal.

Bike MS NYC 2021

The Ride

This ride provides one of the most incredible routes any cyclist could ever experience. For one day a year, some of the streets around Manhattan completely shut down to motorized traffic. The 30-mile route takes you around the outer edge of the City and through Battery Park. NYC landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and the George Washington Bridge keep us motivated to continue to the finish line. If you find yourself out there when the ride takes place on October 17th, give the cyclists a cheer.

How to Donate

Team Guys and Dolls likes to set the bar high for our fundraising goals. After all, this subject is very near and dear to our hearts. Right now, we are over halfway to our $12,000 goal. But we need your help in this final stretch to go all the way. Please visit our team fundraising page here or click on the donate button above. Every bit helps. And all donations go directly to the National MS Society to fund research into MS and its treatments as well as support and services to those living with MS. Thank you so much for your help. By the way, we welcome riders of all ages and experience levels to join the Guys and Dolls Team for Bike MS NYC 2021. It is not too late. Contact me today.

Scott Gleason, CRS at Coldwell Banker Realty, Luxury Homes