Colts Neck’s
Dr. Marisa Dailey Brings Her Lifelong Dream Home to Monmouth County
PLUS: October Events Calendar Holmdel Hornets Score Big 12th Annual Hop Harvest Fest at The Fir Farm in Colts Neck
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CONTENTS
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46 Dr. Marisa Dailey Brings Her Lifelong Dream Home to Monmouth County
Holmdel Hornets Score Big
SALES DIRECTOR AND GENERAL MANAGER ROSEANNE SOFIA ASSOCIATE EDITOR E M M A S Y LV I A OFFICE MANAGER PA M R O G E R S ACCOUNTS PAYABLE S H I R L E Y S T. C L A I R
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REPORTERS K AT H Y C H A N G BILL CL ARK WILLIAM GARDELL REBECC A KING
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DESIGN DIRECTOR DEBBIE MCKENNA
Local History
Events Calendar
PHOTOGRAPHERS ANDREI JACK A ME T S J O E LY P O W Y JOHN VITOLLO
Five Places to Catch the Games
PUBLISHER AND OPERATOR D I R E C T C O M M U N I C AT I O N S & C O N S U LT I N G , L L C
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Pet Celebs
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Parent’s Corner
42
Health Corner
46-47
Around Town
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Biz Beat
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The Wreck of the New Era BY WILLIAM GARDELL
W
hen you visit the beaches of Monmouth County in the summer, you might expect fun and relaxation. For many, the greatest hazards are getting a sunburn or having your French fries stolen by seagulls. However, that wasn’t always the case. Hundreds of shipwrecks lie off the Jersey Shore, and many in Monmouth County in particular. In the fall of 1854, a tragedy played out at sea just off the coast of what is now Asbury Park, NJ. A passenger ship carrying 415 souls ran aground and eventually broke up and sank within sight of the shore during a terrible storm. The New Era was a ship built to carry immigrants to the New World. She carried German emigrants from Bremen, Germany, to New York City. Over one million people left the port of Bremen for America in the mid-19th century, following political upheaval in what is now Germany. Sadly, many passengers on the New Era did not reach their destination alive. The New Era was a brand-new ship. She was built in Bath, Maine, in 1854, and her first voyage across the Atlantic to Germany began on September 28th, 1854, without incident; this trip to New York was the return leg. As the doomed three-masted sailing ship approached New York Harbor at 6 am on November 13th, she ran aground onto the shoals of Deal Beach, off of what is now Asbury Park. A terrible storm blew the ship onto the shoals, and many of the crew were relatively inexperienced sailors. The ship had been experiencing leaks, and the crew and even the passengers were forced to work the pumps to try to pump the water out. What made things even worse was that there
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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com
had been a cholera outbreak amongst the passengers on their voyage, and 43 people had died and been buried at sea before reaching the Jersey Shore. With the ship stranded by wind and crushing waves, local volunteers from the lifesaving station tried to assist the New Era. Abner Allen, the lifesaving station keeper, led them. Allen, born in Shrewsbury in 1817, is considered the earliest settler of Allenhurst, named in his honor. Other volunteers arrived throughout the day. Some 200 men from as far away as Red Bank and Manasquan tried to help. Some of the crew made it to shore in the ship’s lifeboats during the storm, but most of the passengers and crew were still aboard the vessel, which was still being pounded by waves, and many of them were washed overboard and drowned. He and his men fired rescue lines with launchers. They tried a new invention called a life-car, an encapsulated metal lifeboat to rescue the desperate passengers, but it was only partially successful because the waves were too powerful. They worked day and night, lighting bonfires to let those onboard know they were still there. By daybreak the next day, the waves had calmed enough for regular surf boats to reach the New Era and rescue the remaining 143 survivors. This disaster was a national tragedy that is now largely forgotten. The anchor was the only part of the ship that was recovered. Public outcry over this shipwreck and others finally led Congress to formally establish the Life Saving Service, a precursor to the Coast Guard, in 1878.
The Dailey Difference Colts Neck’s Dr. Marisa Dailey Brings Her Lifelong Dream Home to Monmouth County BY EMMA SYLVIA
F
or Dr. Marisa Dailey, the path to oral and maxillofacial surgery began early. At just 17, she started an internship with an oral surgeon in Red Bank. This experience set in motion a career that would take her from Monmouth County to intensive surgical training in the Bronx and, ultimately, back home. Today, Dr. Dailey and her husband, Michael, are raising their two young children in Colts Neck, with a third on the way, as they prepare to open The Dailey Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in nearby Wall Township. For Dr. Dailey, the practice represents more than the culmination of a professional goal. It is an opportunity to build something lasting in the place she and her family call home. From Holmdel to Colts Neck Dr. Dailey grew up in Holmdel. “I had a wonderful childhood there,” she says. “I learned to be involved in school and to be a leader; Holmdel gave me a lot. I wouldn’t want anything less for my kids. It’s a beautiful town with great people in it.” During her internship, Dr. Dailey remembers thinking, “This has to be the coolest thing in the world. I never wanted to leave that office.”
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Dr. Dailey pursued an accelerated seven-year program through Ramapo College and NYU College of Dentistry. She entered dental school at just 20 years old, living on her own in New York City and studying alongside classmates who were often considerably older. On her first day of dental school, she walked into the oral surgery clinic with a question: “I’m going to be an oral surgeon — what do I have to do?” The answer would require years of demanding training. After dental school, Dr. Dailey completed a one-year surgical internship — an experience she describes as “the year-long interview.” The workload was relentless, the competition was fierce, and the experience tested her in ways she had never encountered before. She went on to secure the sole available position in the oral and maxillofacial surgery residency program at Lincoln Medical Center in the Bronx. Her four years of maxillofacial surgical training included rotations in anesthesia, general surgery, internal medicine, emergency medicine, otolaryngology and surgical intensive care. She ultimately served as chief resident, helping lead 17 residents through their surgical training. “It was an incredibly rewarding and humbling experience,” Dr. Dailey says. The contrast between the quiet
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I hope this practice becomes an institution in the community — a place where people can receive exceptional surgical care and feel truly known by their surgical team. — Dr. Marisa Dailey communities of Monmouth County and the violent trauma she encountered during her Bronx residency became clear almost immediately. One case from her first week remains particularly vivid. Her team cared for a pregnant 17-year-old patient who had suffered gunshot wounds to the face and abdomen, resulting in a severely fractured jaw. “My team treated her comminuted jaw fracture using a technique called external fixation. We cared for her over several months, and both she and her baby survived,” Dr. Dailey recalls. Those years shaped more than Dr. Dailey’s surgical skills. They also reinforced a principle she continues to
COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com
bring to patient care today: leave the ego at the door. For her, being a good surgeon means continuing to learn, listening to others, and putting the patient’s best interest first. After nine years in New York City, the Daileys were ready to embrace a slower pace and return home. Colts Neck felt like the right place to raise their family. It offered the sense of community they valued, kept them close to family and allowed them to build their future in the part of New Jersey that had always felt like home. Always a planner, Dr. Dailey had been imagining another part of that future for years. “I’ve been drawing the floor plans for my office since I was a teenager,” she says. “I’m lucky enough to take this step now. It’s the right time.” Bringing the Dream Home At the end of 2025, the Daileys began turning those long-imagined blueprints into reality. The Dailey Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery opens its doors this December in Wall Township, just a short drive from the couple’s Colts Neck home. “I’m excited to give the first patient a tour,” Dr. Dailey says. “I want to show them what we’ve built for them. I hope this practice becomes an institution in the community — a place where people
can receive exceptional surgical care and feel truly known by their surgical team.” Michael oversees the business side of the practice, making The Dailey Center a true joint endeavor. “I’ve watched Marisa work toward this for years,” Michael says. “Seeing her vision become a reality — and knowing how much it means to her — is an incredibly proud moment for our family.” Their personal and professional lives are rooted in Monmouth County, where they hope the practice will serve patients for generations. The Dailey Difference At The Dailey Center, Dr. Dailey wants patients to experience oral surgery differently — through thoughtful treatment planning, clear explanations and a genuine emphasis on comfort and recovery. She wants patients to understand not only what treatment she recommends, but why she recommends it. Getting to know the person behind the procedure — and considering what she would want for herself or her own family — is central to her approach to care. Above all, Dr. Dailey understands that the prospect of oral surgery can feel intimidating. Her goal is to create a place where patients feel informed, comfortable, and confident in the care they receive. The Dailey Center is prioritizing its relationship with the VA and caring for veterans who seek treatment at the practice. “Veterans have given so much to our country,” the Daileys say. “We can give back in this way.” The practice will provide comprehensive oral and maxillofacial surgical care while incorporating regenerative techniques such as platelet-rich fibrin, or PRF, when appropriate. Prepared from a patient’s own blood, PRF can support the body’s natural healing process following certain procedures. At The Dailey Center, regenerative techniques will play a role in both surgical healing and select facial aesthetic treatments. Women represent only about 8% of practicing oral surgeons in the United
States. Dr. Dailey stands out even within that small group as one of the youngest women to own and lead an oral and maxillofacial surgery practice. For families raising daughters, her example carries particular meaning: she wants young women to see that they, too, can become surgeons, build practices, and have a family of their own. What began with a 17-year-old intern working in an oral surgery office in Red Bank has now come full circle: a surgeon returning home to Monmouth County, raising her own family in Colts Neck and opening the practice she has
imagined since she was a teenager. For Dr. Dailey, The Dailey Center is both the fulfillment of that lifelong dream and the beginning of something she hopes will become an enduring part of the community. To learn more or schedule a consultation today, visit daileycenter.com. The Dailey Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery is located at 4814 Outlook Drive, Suite 105, Wall Township, NJ 07753.
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October
EVENTS CALENDAR
Bruce Springsteen and Monmouth West Long Branch Friday, October 2 @ 6 - 8 p.m. Powell Soundstage 400 Cedar Ave springsteencenter.org Little Silver Environmental Day Little Silver Saturday, October 3 @ 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. The Little Silver Women’s Club 111 Church St. Email bonw@aol.com Asbury Park Zombie Walk Asbury Park Saturday, October 3 @ 4 - 7 p.m. Boardwalk to Downtown 1300 Ocean Ave N. asburyparkchamber.com Middletown Day Leonardo Sunday, October 4 @ 1 - 7 p.m. 900 Leonardville Rd. middletownnj.org Night of Frights Wall Friday, October 9 Friday, October 30 @ 6 - 9 p.m. The Historic Village of Allaire 4263 Atlantic Ave. eventbrite.com The Joni Project Holmdel Friday, October 9 @ 7:30 - 10 p.m. Bell Theater 101 Crawfords Corner Rd. ci.ovationtix.com/35486/production/ 1273144?performanceId=11799201
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Charlotte Joy Touch-A-Truck Festival Freehold Saturday, October 10 @ 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. East Freehold Showgrounds 1500 Kozloski Rd. ashleylaurenfoundation.org The Witches of Spring Lake Paddle for a Cause Spring Lake Saturday, October 10 @ 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. visitspringlake.com Fall Taste of Highlands Highlands Saturday, October 10 @ 12 - 5 p.m. Huddy Park 329 Bay Ave. #325 facebook.com/events/huddypark/7th-annual-fall-taste-ofhighlands/1026079366955756/ Red Bank Oktoberfest Red Bank Saturday, October 10 @ 1 - 5 p.m. Red Bank RiverCenter 1 Bridge Ave. redbank.org Fall Flavor of Freehold Freehold Tuesday, October 13 @ 5:30 - 8 p.m. Freehold Borough downtownfreehold.com The Huey Reserve Cigar and Spirits Fundraiser Holmdel Saturday, October 17 @ 2 - 7 p.m. New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial & Museum 1 Memorial Ln. njvvmf.org
COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com
Bluemont’s Black Beauty Benefit Freehold Saturday, October 17 @ 6 - 10 p.m. The American Hotel 18 E Main St. bluemontsanctuary.org/events Witches Night Out Red Bank Thursday, October 22 @ 5 - 10 p.m. Red Bank RiverCenter 46 English Plaza redbank.org Halloween Food Truck & Music Festival Asbury Park Saturday, October 24 @ 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Bradley Park 101 - 199 5th Ave. municipalevents.com/mc-events/ asbury-park-halloween-food-truckmusic-festival-3/ Fall Festival Shrewsbury Saturday, October 24 @ 12 - 3 p.m. The Grove 597 Broad St. thegroveatshrewsbury.com Frances Foundation 22nd Annual Gala Long Branch Saturday, October 24 @ 6 p.m. - 12 a.m. The Ocean Place Resort & Spa 1 Ocean Blvd. francesfoundation.net Deal Trick or Trot Deal Sunday, October 25 @ 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. Deal Casino 125 Ocean Ave N. runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Deal/ JSRCTrickorTrot
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Sara’s Smile Swim
Gives Back to the Community at Second Launch
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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com
n July 31, Holmdel native Sara DeCresce, founder of Sara’s Smile Swim, celebrated the launch of the brand’s newest Ballerina Pink and Varsity Blue collection at the iconic Parker House in Sea Girt. Surrounded by friends, family, and members of the Monmouth County community, the afternoon celebrated not only the continued growth of the young swimwear brand, but also the next generation of local female athletes and dancers. A highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of three scholarships to Molly McCann, Sienna Kelley, and Gina Gervase. Created by Sara’s Smile Swim, the scholarships will support each recipient as she continues pursuing her respective sport or dance training.
Two accomplished Holmdel young women presented the awards, showing where dedication to those passions can lead. Sofia Mancino, a former Division I soccer player, presented alongside Bella Luttrell, a professional dancer. Bringing together young women at different stages of their athletic and artistic journeys made the scholarship presentation an especially meaningful part of the celebration. For DeCresce, the initiative was personal. Having grown up in Holmdel as a dancer, she wanted Sara’s Smile Swim to grow and create opportunities to give back to the community that has supported her. Founded by DeCresce in May 2026, Sara’s Smile Swim was created to rethink the way women feel in swimwear. The brand’s signature seamless, bonded designs prioritize comfort, security,
MonmouthCommunity.com OCTOBER 2026
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and movement while maintaining a polished, elevated look. As the company continues to grow, DeCresce hopes to build something that extends beyond the swimsuits themselves by creating a community centered around confidence and supporting women. The Parker House offered a fitting setting for the summer celebration. For DeCresce, having the event in Monmouth County and seeing so many familiar faces from her hometown made the milestone particularly special. The afternoon was made possible with the generous support of Colleen Reilly of Clash Collective in Holmdel, who gifted her services to the event. Standout photographer Starky Morillo captured the celebration and its many special moments. For Sara’s Smile Swim, the afternoon represented an exciting step forward for a brand that remains closely connected to where it began. Between launching a new collection, celebrating alongside the local community, and helping three young women continue doing what they love, the event reflected the kind of impact DeCresce hopes Sara’s Smile Swim can continue to make as it grows.
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Places to Catch ALL THE GAMES this October BY BILL CLARK
Baseline Social
O
ctober is a sports lover’s dream. The MLB playoffs are rumbling towards the World Series. The NFL season is heating up as the top teams start to distance themselves from the rest of the pack. The NHL and NBA kick off their long campaigns towards crowning their next champions. Some of those days even add up to the coveted sports equinox, when all four major leagues have games on the same day. Here are five top-notch sports bars in the area where you can grab a seat and keep the orders coming as you cheer on your favorite squad. Baseline Social 675 Oceanport Way, Oceanport 07757 Baseline Social has become a top-tier sports viewing venue since it opened in 2023. Ample seating, a great selection of beer and cocktails, and massive televisions make it a perfect stop for marquee events or just catching a local team’s game. Need to work off some of that food? Grab a golf simulator bay and swing away before the next game gets underway. Kelly’s Tavern 43 Route 35, Neptune City 07753 Kelly’s Tavern is known for opening early, throwing its doors open at 7 in the morning for fans of English Premier League soccer. But the action really gets going once American football kicks off. Whether you’re at the bar or at a table inside or outside on the patio, Kelly’s has enough televisions that you’ll most likely find the game you’re most interested in. A wide tap selection and one of the finest Reuben sandwiches around will keep you happy, win or lose. Jack’s Goal Line Stand 149 Brighton Ave., Long Branch 07740 Watch your team make a goal-line stand at Jack’s Goal Line Stand. The tap list offers extensive options, from popular do-
Jack’s Goal Line Stand
mestics and European staples to some of the finest from local breweries. Don’t forget the weekly specials on wings, sliders, tacos, or discount pizza if you are there catching a game on Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday, or Monday. Asbury Ale House 531 Cookman Ave., Asbury Park 07712 The menu is big, but the screens are bigger. Whether you want tried-and-true burgers or something a little fancier, Asbury Ale House is the place to be for the game and the grub. Can you multitask? Watch the game while participating in bingo, trivia, or karaoke on Monday, Wednesday, or Thursday. Miller’s Ale House 1603 Route 35, Ocean 07712 Sixty screens, two bars and no limit to the amount of sports you can enjoy at Miller’s Ale House. NFL is their specialty, along with their Zingers, specialty chicken tenders doused with your choice of sauces. Whether it’s college football, the Monday night matchup, or the Thursday tilt, Miller’s will leave you satisfied, whether your team wins or not.
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Red Bank, New Jersey
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A Le Malt Hospitality Group restaurant, from the creators of Le Malt and Meximodo.
A Profile On The Next Chapter Market BY EMMA SYLVIA
N
ino Chomakhashvili arrived in NJ from Georgia at age 19 to pursue an education at Monmouth University. Today, she lives in Eatontown with her husband and two children and is the proud owner and CFO of The Next Chapter Market (NCM), which recently held its grand opening in Ocean Township. Chomakhashvili talks about the journey that took her across an ocean before creating a dispensary that she, her staff, and Ocean can be truly proud of. The American Dream “I had plans at 19,” Chomakhashvili recalls. “I thought I’d help my dad with his wine business.” What Chomakhashvili could never have foreseen was what her career would end up being: one in cannabis. She was first introduced to the world of cannabis via Beth Stavola, a pioneer in the industry. In 2011, Stavola prompted Chomakhashvili to work for her. “I could not have asked for a better mentor in life.” “There was one small problem: I knew nothing about cannabis.” Although she wasn’t a consumer herself, Chomakhashvili says one thing was utterly clear to her: numbers. She began as an accountant before gradually working her way up to CFO of NCM. “It was extraordinary to enter cannabis in 2011. There was no blueprint; we were helping write it.” As an Ocean local,
Stavola also wanted to build a dispensary that Stavola and residents would adore. Thus came The Next Chapter Market. Chomakhashvili was given the opportunity to make NCM from the ground up. “After so many years in the industry, I had collected a long list of ideas.” She immersed herself entirely, from customer flow to menu to the tiny details the average passerby would never imagine had so much thought behind them. “I wanted an experienced user to appreciate the details, while someone new could feel completely at ease.” With this, Chomakhashvili emphasizes the work that also went into their cannabis menu. NCM aimed to make a sometimes overwhelming experience easy for new customers while rewarding experienced ones. This is emphasized in the dispensary’s logo, an owl. It symbolizes knowledge and wisdom — or, as Chomakhashvili puts it, the modern cannabis customer. “[They’re] someone who asks questions.” “You can build the most beautiful dispensary in New Jersey, and if someone walks out feeling bored or intimidated, nothing matters. Customer experience is everything to me.” Chomakhashvili is especially proud that NCM is woman-owned and operated, bringing a feminine touch to the business. “That’s not making something ‘pretty’; it’s the little details.” She emphasizes credit to Beth Stavola, Tenisha Victor, Dale Patterson and Kimberly Wagner. “These beautiful, strong women deserve credit for what The Next Chapter has become.” Alongside Jake Scire, who operates the stores, Chomakhashvili still calls herself a “numbers girl.” She hopes Ocean residents and beyond will look at NCM and not think of it as a dispensary, but “my” dispensary. “That’s earned one customer at a time. By listening, being consistent, offering quality and supporting our community.” 19-year-old Chomakhashvili never would have believed this is where her story would go, and today, she’s glad she didn’t write her life in stone. “You don’t always get to know what the next chapter will be,” she remarks. “You have to be brave enough to turn the page.” You can find more information about The Next Chapter Market on social media @nextchapternj, on www.njdispo.com, or by visiting them at 1808 Brielle Ave., Ocean Township.
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FIXING A STUFFY NOSE AND
SNORING QUESTION: My nose is always stuffy, worse on one side. And not only that... I am told by my spouse that I snore loudly! What can I do? ANSWER: Your best bet is a full evaluation by an ENT specialist who can determine what is causing your nasal obstruction and the most effective treatment. Often, once the nasal breathing is restored, the loud snoring is then diminished or even eliminated. There are several steps necessary for a thorough exam: HISTORY: Questioning the patient about previous trauma to the nose and also anything that may cause chronic swelling inside the nasal cavity, like recurrent sinus infections, allergies, and overuse of intranasal sprays such as Afrin. EXAM: Fiberoptic scope of the nose and throat to look for septal deviations, polyps, abnormal enlargements of other intranasal structures, and draining secretions which can be cultured. Check the external nasal structure for cartilage collapse that can result in a valve obstruction. Also allergy tests, home sleep studies and CT scans may be performed if indicated. TREATMENT: Customized to the patient’s cause of obstruction. Can be as simple as a regimen of intranasal and oral medications or more complex involving surgical procedures. ADVANCED SURGICAL TREATMENT: The latest techniques allow for quick recovery, no bruising, more precise repairs, and open breathing immediately after surgery. Technology has improved with the use of 4K camera/monitors and microscopic visualization, laser- guided infrared navigation, and new methods and instrumentation for septum repair, turbinate reduction, valve collapse reconstruction and sinus blockage. Rhinoplasty techniques have also advanced and can often be performed at the same time if there are external nasal cosmetic concerns.
Frank J Scaccia, MD FACS
RIVERSIDE FACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY & SINUS CENTER
Top rhinoplasty surgeon NJ Monthly Magazine 2026 • American Board of Otolaryngology (ENT) • American Board of Facial Plastic Surgery Jack Anderson Prize award for highest score in board certifying exam. • Top NYC Metro Doctor 2006-2024 • In-office NJ state-licensed accredited Ambulatory Surgery Center
70 E Front St. 3rd Floor | Red Bank, NJ
732-747-5300
www.riversideface.com
These pictures are actual patients of Dr. Scaccia who underwent septal and nasal reconstruction.
Accepts most out of network insurance plans including Horizon Blue Cross, Cigna, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare and others. Please call our office for details. We are here to help make your health insurance work for you.
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IF IT’S OUTSIDE,
Triumph Brewery:
Book Your Next Holiday Party
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riumph Restaurant & Brewery – New Jersey’s oldest continuously operating brewpub - has got your party covered with four unique event spaces in its Red Bank location. Choose from private and semi-private spaces designed for intimate gatherings, cocktail parties, corporate celebrations, and larger holiday events. Spaces can accommodate groups of 20 to 80 guests, with select spaces available to combine for larger celebrations. Guests enjoy Triumph’s house-brewed craft beers, curated cocktails, and seasonal menu offerings. Triumph brews traditional styles from around the world – Germany, New Zealand, Vienna, New England etc. – with a concentration in lagers, eschewing the trendy, the extreme, and the undrinkably weird, according to its menu. “Our beers, neither filtered nor pasteurized, are served directly from lagering tanks and sparkle with a freshness you will find nowhere else.” Guests enjoy live music Thursday to Sunday with no cover, adding an energetic atmosphere to your celebration. Private events include dedicated bartenders, servers, and an event coordinator to help ensure a seamless experience. The Private Event Room includes AV equipment and can accommodate a DJ and live band. Private event spaces are available for three- to five-hour events, with optional early setup access. Private event bookings include three hours of validated garage parking. Need to host a corporate holiday party? Office gathering? Client event? Cocktail party? Birthday? And/or Festive Group Celebration? Book through Triumph Brewery located in Red Bank, 1 Bridge Ave., 732-852-7300. Triumph has a second location in Princeton at 20 Palmer Square East, 609-924-7855. For more information, visit triumphbrewing.com
MonmouthCommunity.com OCTOBER 2026
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Once Bitten Doughnuts 86 Broad St., Red Bank oncebittendonutsredbank.com Unique, fun doughnuts, fresh coffee, and a spot for your dog on the outdoor patio make Once Bitten Doughnuts on Broad St. in Red Bank a great fall spot for you and your pup. Grab a doughnut piled high with sweets, or choose a gluten-free or vegan option. Wash it down with a latte or cappuccino, and you have the perfect combination for any fall day. Melonhead Cafe 101 Oakland St., Red Bank melonheadcafe.com Acai bowls, smoothies, salads, and other fresh fare are perfect to enjoy with your pup on Melonhead Cafe’s patio in Red Bank. Bring your pooch along for breakfast, lunch, or an afternoon snack and enjoy the cooler air.
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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com
Lola’s European Cafe 539 Cookman Ave. Asbury Park lolaseuropeancafe.com With some of the finest cocktails on Cookman Ave., Lola’s also boasts one of the best streetside areas to enjoy the autumn air with your pup. Stop by for a snack, some gelato, or a boozy milkshake that Lola’s staff will craft perfectly for you. Be mindful that Lola’s can be a draw on busier days, and staff will keep you confined to their outdoor space if you bring your cocktail outside. The Galley Pizzeria 1313 Memorial Dr., Asbury Park thegalleyasbury.com The tables along the walkway at The Shops at Sunset Point are necessary, as The Galley is an in-demand restaurant. Your pup can hang out with you outside as you wait for incredible pizza options. You may expect a square, Detroit-style pie or a classic thin-crust round pie from a pizzeria, but the menu offers so much more. Burgers, sandwiches and dinners are worth the wait. Just be mindful that the outdoor seating isn’t on a proper patio, and normal shopping-center foot traffic will pass through.
AUGIE, ARCHIE & OLLIE of Colts Neck
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JUPITER of Marlboro
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Your pets can be celebrities too. Send in a photo to info@CommunityMagazineNJ.com
Middletown Trailer Supply:
A Trusted ‘One-Stop’ Shop for Trailer Needs Family-Owned Located in Belford, New Jersey, Middletown Trailer Supply is more than just a dealership; it is a trusted partner for contractors, homeowners, outdoor enthusiasts, and business owners alike. It has been family-owned and operated since its incorporation in 2015 by brothers-inlaw Buddy Walters and Rick Hibell. This local business has grown from its humble beginnings selling only Load Rite trailers into a trusted name in trailer sales, service and parts. Today, the company is proud to be an authorized dealer for some of the industry’s largest and most respected brands, including Big Tex, BWise, Homesteader, Griffin, Load Rite, Anvil, Liberty, and Spartan. Their inventory covers everything from equipment and landscape trailers to dump trailers, enclosed trailers, utility trailers, and even watercraft trailers. Middletown Trailer Supply takes pride in its commitment to quality and customer care. Whether you are hauling tools or toys, Middletown Trailer Supply has a solution tailored to your needs and budget.
Trailer Supplies and Parts Beyond trailer sales and service, the shop also features a fully stocked parts department. Middletown Trailer Supply is a one-stop shop for all trailer parts and accessories. The extensive inventory offers the latest products for every trailer, including top-quality hitches, durable tires, and even LED strobe lighting.
Full-Service Mechanic Shop Middletown Trailer Supply has an on-premises, full-service repair shop with highly experienced mechanics who can handle anything from hitches to taillights. From quick tire changes to full axle replacements and welding, they handle it all. Middletown Trailer Supply offers unique upgrades and customizations to ensure your trailer is fully equipped for day-to-day use. Whether you need built-in shelving and racks on your enclosed trailer, raised sides on your dump, or routine maintenance to keep your trailer road-ready, Middletown Trailer Supply has you covered.
Great Customer Service and Staff What truly sets Middletown Trailer Supply apart is the people! Their team is knowledgeable and takes the time to understand your needs, helping guide you to the perfect trailer. Whether you are buying your first trailer or you’re a seasoned hauler, they offer transparent pricing, fast service, and a pressure-free atmosphere. With over 200 trailers on site, options for customizable colors and sizes, an expert repair department and a team that treats you like family, it is no wonder Middletown Trailer Supply has become a staple in the community.
Financing Options Available If buying a new trailer for business or personal use feels
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financially stressful, Middletown Trailer Supply can help you weigh your options. Middletown Trailer Supply works with a network of trusted financial lenders that offer options for all types of customers. Whether you’re looking for shortor long-term financing, you can see what lenders offer in just a few clicks. Middletown Trailer Supply carefully vets and selects the lenders it works with to provide the best options for customers. Their goal is to make sure every customer has the convenience, clarity, and confidence to finalize the purchase!
Middletown Trailer Supply is located at 550 Route 36 in Belford, NJ. For more information, call 732-787-6502 or visit www.middletowntrailer.com
Every Kick Counts Brings Players Together Through Soccer, Friendship and Inclusion
F
or many young athletes, playing soccer is about much more than what happens on the field. It is about being part of a team, making friends and experiencing the simple joy of playing the game. That spirit of inclusion is at the heart of Every Kick Counts, a growing New Jersey Youth Soccer initiative supporting athletes with disabilities. New Jersey Youth Soccer recently hosted its second annual Every Kick Counts event at Bel-Aire Golf Course in Wall Township. The FootGolf fundraiser, sponsored by RWJBarnabas Health, brought together 40 players, families and volunteers for a day combining soccer, golf and community while raising funds and awareness for the organization’s TOPSoccer Program. TOPSoccer is a community-based training and team placement program that gives young athletes with mental or physical disabilities opportunities to play soccer. It is one of many programs offered by New Jersey Youth Soccer, a nonprofit organization serving more than 100,000 players ages 5 to 19, along with more than 10,000 coaches and thousands of volunteers statewide. The story behind Every Kick Counts began with high school student Zack Dabby, whose experience volunteering with Challenger Sports — and particularly the friendships he formed there — inspired him to create the initiative. Among those friendships was his connection with Jack Costantino, who has now participated in Every Kick Counts twice. “I love spending time with my friends playing FootGolf,” Costantino said. “I look forward to it every summer now. I am so happy my buddy Zack created this.” That idea of friendship creating greater opportunities for inclusion has helped the initiative continue to grow. This year, New Jersey native and former U.S. Men’s National Team captain Tab Ramos was named the official Every Kick Counts
Ambassador and attended the event. “Soccer has an incredible ability to bring people together, and Every Kick Counts captures that spirit in a very special way,” Ramos said, adding that he hopes to help grow Dabby’s vision and provide more athletes with special needs opportunities to play and connect with the soccer community. The event also received plenty of support from the surrounding community. RWJBarnabas Health returned as title sponsor, while the Jersey Shore BlueClaws provided a free ticket to every player and volunteer. The BlueClaws mascot, Buster, greeted participants and even joined them on the course. The Monmouth County Park System was also a key partner in hosting the event. Additional sponsors and donors included the New York Red Bulls, Ray Catena Auto Group, Johnson & Johnson, Vin Gopal Foundation, Freehold Elks Club and several other local and regional organizations. And Every Kick Counts is already looking beyond New Jersey. With participation and donor support increasing, the initiative plans to expand into Connecticut, Virginia and Massachusetts, bringing its message of inclusion — and the opportunity to play — to even more young athletes.
MonmouthCommunity.com OCTOBER 2026
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MonmouthCommunity.com OCTOBER 2026
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Oak Hill Academy: A New Shared Leadership Model BY KATHY CHANG The updated structure also reflects a broader trend among independent schools nationwide that are evaluating how best to organize leadership in response to the changing needs of education and school communities. “Our goal is to preserve everything that makes Oak Hill Academy special while strengthening every aspect of school life,” Pacelli said. “Each child should have the opportunity to discover their unique gifts, develop confidence, and become the very best version of themselves.”
(from left to right) Miss Patrice Murray, Head of Personnel and Administration, Mr. Joseph Pacelli, President and Founder, Mrs. Gina Misson, Head of Finance and Operations, Mrs. Christina Larkins, Head of Programs and Enrollment
T
he Oak Hill Academy in Lincroft begins its 46th school year with a new leadership model. Approved by the Oak Hill Academy Board of Trustees, the new leadership model reflects nearly three years of planning, discussion, and evaluation. While leadership titles and responsibilities are evolving, the school’s mission and educational philosophy remain unchanged. “…To educate the whole child by developing both academic excellence and personal character,” said Joseph A. Pacelli, president of Oak Hill Academy. “This new leadership structure gives us an opportunity to strengthen that mission while providing even greater support to our students, teachers, and families.” For decades, Oak Hill Academy has challenged students to ask meaningful questions, think independently, solve problems creatively, work collaboratively, and develop strong character. As education continues to evolve, the school is committed to building on its foundational values while preparing students with the knowledge, skills, confidence, and understanding they will need to thrive in a technologically driven world. That commitment to its students remains at the heart of the new model. The collaborative structure builds on a leadership approach already familiar to the school. The team members have extensive experience working together and sharing responsibility for decision-making, providing continuity while allowing each leader to focus on a specific area of school operations.
Joseph A. Pacelli — President His new role allows him to provide overall leadership, vision, and strategic direction for Oak Hill Academy while dedicating increased time to working directly with teachers and students. A long-time advocate for innovative teaching and individualized student development, Pacelli, who founded the Academy 45 years ago, said the new structure will allow him to focus more closely on supporting teachers, developing creative instructional approaches, and recognizing the unique talents of individual students. Christina J. Larkins — Head of Programs and Enrollment Mrs. Larkins leads the school’s academic programs, curriculum initiatives, student experience, admissions, and enrollment growth. Entering her 35th year, Larkins joined the school in 1991. She graduated from Drew University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics. She subsequently earned her teaching certification and received a Master of Science degree in Educational Leadership from Monmouth University, including a Principal’s Certificate. Gina M. Misson — Head of Finance and Operations Mrs. Misson oversees the school’s financial management, facilities, business operations, and long-term organizational planning. Misson is entering her 38th year, having joined the school in 1988. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from The College of New Jersey and a Master of Business Administration degree from Monmouth University. Patrice M. Murray — Head of Personnel and Administration Miss Murray supports Oak Hill Academy’s faculty and staff while overseeing the day-to-day administrative functions that help the school operate effectively and efficiently. Entering her 45th year at Oak Hill Academy, Murray joined the school in 1982. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a Master of Science in Educational Administration, along with a Principal’s Certificate, from Monmouth University. MonmouthCommunity.com OCTOBER 2026
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Breakfast of Champions Turning Point Restaurants Gives Back BY EMMA SYLVIA
F
or nearly three decades, Turning Point has been a staple in Monmouth County culture. With ten locations across the county, including the newest in Old Bridge, it’s a regular go-to for breakfast, brunch, and lunch for Monmouth locals and tourists alike. No one knows this better than Turning Point CEO Kirk Ruoff. Ruoff speaks not only about 28 years of service to the community, but also about how the restaurant gives back to the customers it owes everything to. Three Decades of Difference “For 28 years, we’ve been a part of the community, and for 28 years, we’ve continued to give back in many different ways,” Ruoff says. “We’re part of the community, and we’ve been doing this for a long time. We’re not a big chain; it’s the same people who have been running the restaurant [for 28 years]. We’re growing slowly and steadily.” With this growth, Ruoff says Turning Point can provide greater support to Monmouth. The restaurant’s particular focus is helping local organizations and nonprofits. Every year, Turning Point picks one or two charities to partner with at large galas. However, when a charity asks Turning Point for help, they contribute time or gift certificates at the bare minimum. “Schools, churches, synagogues – you name it, we’ll participate. We’ll never say ‘no’ to a request for charitable purposes.” Their big event this year, held in September, supports LADACIN Network. LADACIN is a nonprofit that provides the “continuum of care, including educational, therapeutic, social, residential and support services to infants, children, and adults with complex physical and developmental disabilities or delay”. Founded in 1949 by parents seeking therapy for their children with cerebral palsy, the nonprofit today serves more than 3,500 individuals and their families across 15 facilities in Monmouth and Ocean Counties. “We look at the families and how challenging it is for them to have a child born with some sort of physical or mental disability,” Ruoff elaborates. “[We want to] inform the public that they’re out there doing this service. They’re well known
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in Monmouth County; they do such a good job supporting the business in our effort to raise awareness. They get involved; it’s very reciprocal.” Ruoff and Turning Points eagerly look forward every year to supporting LADACIN, as they have for the past 19 years. They were a platinum member of their annual “Eat, Drink, and Be Caring” Fundraiser. “This is our biggest event of the year. We’re a platinum member sponsorship level of all the corporate sponsors. It’s part of our ethos; our business is being involved in the community. Helping folks raise money. It’s part of who we are from the beginning.” With summer over, the hectic nature of the Shore calms down, and Turning Point looks forward to serving its greatest base: the locals. The restaurants and menus alike will be decorated for autumn across their ten locations. “We’re excited to see the locals coming back.” You can find out more about Turning Point on Instagram @turningpointrestaurants or at turningpointrestaurants.com You can learn more about LADACIN Network at ladacin.org
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Fifty Years of Designing for the Room For 50 years, Design Line Kitchens has designed cabinetry around the homes and homeowners it serves, then built it in its own Sea Girt factory.
M
ost people walk into a kitchen showroom with a room rather than a cabinet order. They know what isn’t working, how their family uses the space and what they would like to change. The designer turns those ideas into a room that works. At Design Line Kitchens, the process has an unusual advantage: the cabinetry its designers specify is manufactured in the company’s own factory, directly behind its showroom at 2127 Highway 35 in Sea Girt. The designers aren’t limited to selecting predetermined cabinet sizes from an outside manufacturer’s catalog. If a particular space calls for a cabinet 19.5 inches wide and 10 inches deep, Design Line can build it that way. “That’s really what custom means to me,” Steve Egan said. “We measure your kitchen, we design it for that space, and then we build it right here.”
Today’s design team includes Brittany Rizzolo, Rene Costabile, Victoria Birritteri and Ellen Cipriano. Homeowners can work through layouts and see detailed renderings of a proposed space before cabinetry is built. Design Line then handles the manufacturing and installation, keeping the process within one company. A recently photographed Spring Lake project shows how that approach can extend beyond the kitchen. A large marble-topped island anchors the main room, surrounded by white cabinetry designed around the cooking, refrigeration and sink areas. In the adjoining living room, built-in cabinetry surrounds the fireplace and television. The dining and entertaining area continues the design with glass-front cabinetry, wine refrigeration and a beverage area. Kitchens may be the company’s best-known work, but its cabinetry is also used for bars, built-ins, mudrooms, laundry rooms and vanities. Design Line structurally guarantees its cabinetry for as long as the customer owns the home. Matt Egan founded Design Line Kitchens in 1976 after learning the cabinetmaking trade in Ireland. The company moved to the Jersey Shore in 1979 and has operated from its current Sea Girt location since 1986. Today, its showroom and factory encompass approximately 10,000 square feet. Tools, styles and technology have changed considerably over those 50 years. The basic challenge facing the designer has not: understand the homeowner, understand the room, and build the cabinetry to fit both. Design Line Kitchens Showroom & Factory 2127 Highway 35, Sea Girt, NJ 08750 732-449-6760 DesignLineKitchens.com
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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com
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very kiddo’s favorite holiday looms at the end of the month. For Monmouth’s Gen Z population, everyone remembers their least favorite Halloween: 2012. Infamously, Superstorm Sandy struck New Jersey, leading then-governor Chris Christie to “cancel” Halloween. Despite the valid reasons – downed power lines, lost power, generally unsafe conditions – for the cancellation, children across the state lamented their loss of costumes and candy. As everyone knows, in 2026, New Jersey and the tri-state area at large have faced frequent torrential storms and downpours. Hopefully, this Halloween tells a different story than it did more than a decade ago. Though, despite well wishes for sunny weather (or perhaps a bit of cloudy darkness to complement a scary movie marathon), safety precautions should always be taken for young children heading out for perhaps their first-ever Trick-or-Treating adventure. Especially for new trick-or-treaters, parents or a trusted guardian should accompany them, particularly if the weather is less than ideal. Some kids may
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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com
be hesitant to walk with their parents on the big night of the year, so keep a safe distance while letting them have fun. Helping your child pick a fun, easy-to-seeat-night costume is also a practical plan. Stay alert at crosswalks and in heavy traffic as the moon rises, and give your kids a glow stick or flashlight to help them navigate in the dark, especially if they’re without a parent to guide them through the neighborhood. In addition to costumes, be wary of face paint and makeup. Your child may have an allergy you’re unaware of, so watch for itching, burning, bumps, redness, or swelling when the costume is applied to the skin. If you’re the greeter of trick-or-treaters at your own home, make sure your spooky decor poses no fire hazard. Instead of real candles, try battery-operated ones, and keep your walkway clear of hazards with a clearly lit path to the front door. As children celebrate Halloween less and less often, both because of the weather and passing fads, it’s important to keep traditions alive and make sure everyone can celebrate safely, with plenty of scares along the way!
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Our picks for some fun nights out at local bars, restaurants and concert venues this month BY BILL CLARK Shut Up Gus Friday, October 9 @ 7:00 p.m. Red Rock Tap and Grill, 14 Wharf Ave., Red Bank redrockrb.com Troubadours 2026: A Tribute to James Taylor and Carole King Saturday, October 17 @ 8:00 p.m. Bell Theater at Bell Works, 101 Crawfords Corner Rd., Holmdel Regular Tickets $72.50, Premium Tickets $82.50! axelrodartscenter.com Trombone Shorty and Orleans Ave Sunday, October 18 @ 7:00 p.m. Hackensack Meridian Health Theater at Count Basie, 99 Monmouth St., Red Bank Tickets starting at $52.60 thebasie.org Emo Night Karaoke Friday, October 30 @ 8 p.m. Wonder Bar, 1213 Ocean Ave, Asbury Park $24.70 wonderbarasburypark.com Willie Nile Saturday, October 31 @ 8:00 p.m. Jersey Shore Arts Center, 66 S Main St, Ocean Grove $40 advance, $45 day of show jerseyshoreartscenter.org Trivia Night Monday, October 5, 12, 19, 26 Deal Lake Bar & Co, 601 Main St., Loch Arbour Free! deallakebarco.com
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RWJBarnabas Health Earns Top State and National Ranking by U.S. News & World Report in the 2026-27 Best Children’s Hospitals Edition RWJBarnabas Health Children’s Health hospitals have been ranked among the nation’s Best Children’s Hospitals for 2026–2027 by U.S. News & World Report, with The Bristol-Myers Squibb Children’s Hospital (BMSCH) at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital named the #1 Children’s Hospital in New Jersey (tie), ranked #11 in the Mid-Atlantic Region (tie) and earning the highest ranked programs in the state. The three RWJBarnabas Health Children’s Health pediatric specialties to garner the prestigious ‘gold badges’ are: Pediatric Urology (23), Pediatric Nephrology (#38), and Pediatric Behavioral & Mental Health (Top 50). This is the fourth consecutive time that urology has been nationally ranked and the first-ever gold badges for nephrology and behavioral health. RWJBarnabas Health provides New Jersey’s largest and only network of pediatric academic care with Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School at The BristolMyers Squibb Children’s Hospital (BMSCH) at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Children’s Hospital of New Jersey at Newark Beth Israel, Unterberg Children’s Hospital at Monmouth Medical Center, and the McMullen Children’s Center at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center and Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care. In addition, the network also includes Children’s Specialized Hospital, the nation’s leading provider of inpatient and outpatient care for children from birth to 21 years of age facing special health challenges — from chronic illnesses and complex physical disabilities to a full scope of developmental, behavioral and mental health concerns. “These rankings send a simple and clear message to families across New Jersey that the specialized care their children deserve is being delivered across RWJBarnabas Health,” said Mark E. Manigan, president and CEO, RWJBarnabas Health. “Further, they are the result of the dedication of our network of world-class pediatric doctors and nurses, and a broad team who treat every child as they would their own.” “Recognition as a top children’s hospital and New Jersey in achieving the highest programmatic rankings in the state is a meaningful achievement for our children and families,” said Fernando Ferrer, Chief Pediatric Officer for RWJBarnabas Health. “This is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our physicians, nurses, researchers and staff who work across our pediatric network of care every day to provide children and families with highest quality care for serious health conditions and outstanding preventative care.” For the 2026-2027 rankings, U.S. News, together with RTI International, a North Carolina-based research firm, collected and analyzed data from 114 children’s hospitals and surveyed thousands of pediatric specialists. Children’s hospitals awarded a “Best” designation excelled at factors such as clinical RWJBarnabas Health Earns Top State and National Ranking by U.S. News & World Report in the 2026-27
Best Children’s Hospitals Editionoutcomes, compliance with established best practices, and level and quality of hospital resources directly related to patient care. “This recognition underscores our commitment to providing children and families across New Jersey with access to exceptional pediatric care,” said William Faverzani, Senior Vice President, Children’s Services, RWJBarnabas Health. “We are proud to continue advancing our programs and expanding access to highquality, specialized care across our network.” The full 2026-2027 Best Children’s Hospitals rankings can be found at USNews.com. For more information, explore #BestChildrensHospitals on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, TikTok and X. Learn more at rwjbh.org/ChildrensHealth. About RWJBarnabas Health RWJBarnabas Health is New Jersey’s largest and most comprehensive academic health system, caring for more than five million people annually. Nationally renowned for quality and safety, the system includes 14 hospitals and 9,000 affiliated physicians integrated to provide care at more than 700 patient care locations. RWJBarnabas Health partners with its communities to build and sustain a healthier New Jersey. It provides patient-centered care in a compassionate manner and is the state’s largest safety-net provider and leader in addressing the social determinants of health. RWJBarnabas Health provides food to the hungry, housing for the homeless and economic opportunities to those most vulnerable. RWJBarnabas Health’s commitment to enhancing access to care includes a transformative partnership with Rutgers University, including the Rutgers Cancer Institute — the state’s only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, and Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. RWJBarnabas Health is among New Jersey’s largest private employers, with more than 45,000 employees, contributing more than $7 billion to the state economy every year. For more information, visit www.RWJBH.org. About U.S. News & World Report U.S. News & World Report is the global leader for journalism that empowers consumers, citizens, business leaders and policy officials to make confident decisions in all aspects of their lives and communities. A multifaceted media company, U.S. News provides unbiased rankings, independent reporting and analysis, and consumer advice to millions of people on USNews. com each month. A pillar in Washington for more than 90 years, U.S. News is the trusted home for indepth and exclusive insights on education, health, politics, the economy, insurance, personal finance, travel, automobiles, real estate, careers and consumer products and services.
OUR DISCOVERIES BECOME YOUR CARE At RWJBarnabas Health & Rutgers Cancer Institute, the state’s only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, we’re dedicated to conquering cancer with advanced treatment options and groundbreaking discoveries. Visit rwjbh.org/silencecancer
HEALTH CORNER
October is
Breast Cancer
Awareness Month BY EMMA SYLVIA
B
reast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States besides skin cancers, according to the American Cancer Society. October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month. If you do not know someone who has cancer, it is likely that you know someone else who does have a loved one suffering from such a tragic and deadly affliction. In this country, approximately 13% of women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime (and men, as well, count for about 1% of all breast cancer cases). However, hope is not lost. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF), breast cancer death rates in the United States have dropped by 44% in the last four decades. While more than 382,000 women in the US will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, thanks to developments in treatment and technology, more than four million breast cancer survivors live in the US today. Despite this good news, it’s still important to be cautious and protect your health for decades to come. Breast cancer develops most predominantly in middle-aged and older women. It’s impossible to detect just how cancer will react and grow in the body, so routine screenings and early detection are crucial for a woman to attend to ensure her health.
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According to the NBCF, common signs and symptoms of breast cancer include a breast lump, skin changes, changes in the nipple and more. Your breasts may also hurt or ache because of these symptoms. You can do a self-exam, since no one knows your body as well as you do. If you have further concerns or experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to tell your doctor. A doctor or gynecologist will likely perform a breast exam at your well visit or at your request, if you experience these symptoms. If you’re a woman older than 40 years of age – with a higher chance of being diagnosed with breast cancer – then you will undergo a mammogram, or an X-ray of the breast. This is the most effective screening tool for early detection of breast cancer. A diagnosis is not the end of the road today. Early screenings, healthy habits and communication with your doctor can mean the difference between life or death. This October, make sure that the women in your life have the support and comfort they need for their own early screenings and treatment. With groups like the NBCF, breast cancer will soon be a tragedy of yesterday. If you want to learn more about breast cancer and receive your own resources, head to nationalbreastcancer.org
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12th Annual Hop Harvest Fest at The Fir Farm in Colts Neck The Fir Farm in Colts Neck recently celebrated its 12th Annual Hop Harvest Fest. This year, Twin Lights Brewing (Tinton Falls), Source Brewing (Colts Neck), Ship Bottom Brewery (LBI), Varitage Brew Works (Bloomfield) and Twin Soles Brewing (Augusta) all came out to the farm and hand-picked JerseyFresh Fir Farm Hops along with lots of Hop Harvesters. Look out for these special “Wet Hop” Harvest Ales at the Breweries.
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AROUND TOWN » COLTS NECK | HOLMDEL
Band of Brothers Holmdel Hornets Score Big EMMA SYLVIA
A
merica’s favorite pastime has that moniker for a reason. No one agrees with this more than Jennifer Muller. Originally from Brick and a self-described Jersey Girl, Muller and her husband wanted their kids to grow up in the most academically and recreationally advantageous place they could find. So they moved to Holmdel and have had nothing but praise ever since. One of Holmdel’s shining gems is its town travel baseball team, the Holmdel Hornets. This summer, 104 teams from across the United States and Canada took to the pitcher’s mound at Cooperstown Dreams Park – and the Hornets secured a historic performance, advancing to the final 32 in bracket play and solidifying themselves as the best team in Holmdel’s history. History in the Making “I love baseball. It’s always been my favorite sport to watch,” Muller says. From a baseball family, her eldest son went through the Holmdel Youth Activities Association (HYAA), and her youngest followed at age seven, playing with the Hornets at age ten. Muller chose to get more involved with the HYAA and the Holmdel Hornets, helping organize travel, team dinners, and other duties that earned her the nickname “team mom.” For Muller, she credits every single success to the coaches – Head Coach Craig Lowenstein and assistant coaches Joe Barbara and Ken Kosco – and the way they can inspire their players to achieve the best that they can. “[The players] had highs where they won championships, and lows where they didn’t finish as well as they would’ve hoped to. But, altogether, at 12U, this was the culmination of all these things in Cooperstown. All of their hard work and
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dedication really shone through.” The Holmdel Hornets went 5-0 in pool play, beating clubs from Texas, California, Georgia, Kentucky and Maryland. Muller especially highlights the Hornets’ uniqueness as a travel team rather than a club team, an oddity at Cooperstown, where travel teams tend to dominate. “A lot of kids play in club teams, and we proved that you don’t need to spend all that money to go outside. You can stay with your town and really be successful. These kids can hang with the rest of the kids from these different club teams.” Advanced bracket play is the farthest Holmdel has ever progressed as Cooperstown. Though they did not go all the way and win the entire tournament, the tears shed at the team’s conclusion were not out of sorrow but out of sheer joy. “All the kids were hugging each other because it was the last time they played with each other, and they ended on such a high. They didn’t want it to end. They all truly love each other.” Some of the Hornets may move on to other sports, as multi-athletes who may be going to other high schools. Muller is hopeful that the boys will stay in touch, whether they’re playing on the same team or against each other. She strongly encourages any child interested in baseball to pursue their passion, even if they aren’t on a club team. As the Hornets prove, you can go far with your friends and neighbors around you. As one player put it succinctly at Cooperstown: “The other kids were teammates. But we’re brothers.” To learn more about Holmdel’s activities, visit hyaa.teamsnapsites.com/baseball
AROUND TOWN » COLTS NECK | HOLMDEL
Another Great Outing for the Colts Neck Seniors
T
he Colts Neck Seniors reversed the usual schedule: lunch first, then a show. On Thursday, August 20, we boarded a beautiful new bus and were taken to the Surflight Theater in Beach Haven. A wonderful rendition of “1776” was performed, with a terrific cast. Even though it was a compelling, insightful drama, there were moments of laughter too. So much local talent to enjoy! After the show, we were driven to Calloway’s Restaurant, where we had a private room and very accommodating servers. We preordered one of the following: Broiled Atlantic Salmon, Prime Rib of Beef (A real treat for some of us!), Chicken Francaise or Penne alla Vodka. It was a very satisfying dinner for all. Colts Neck residents who have reached their 55th birthday are welcome to join this active group. For more information, call President Ray Shebell at 732-890-0361.
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Student Successes The University of Rhode Island celebrated more than 4,000 of its newest alums during the University’s 2026 Commencement. Among the graduates was Katrina Walier of Holmdel, who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Science. Do you want to send us a student success tip? Please e-mail to info@communitymagazinenj.com
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BIZBEAT
A quick roundup of what’s new and happening at local businesses in Monmouth County.
Get Back to Doing What You Love with Dr. Dhimant Balar Sports medicine isn’t just for athletes. Whether you’re dealing with a nagging knee, shoulder pain, an overuse injury, or a concussion, Dhimant J. Balar, DO, helps patients get back to moving with confidence. Dr. Balar specializes in minimally invasive care for joint and muscle pain, including ultrasound-guided injections and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. His patient-first approach focuses on identifying the source of pain, restoring function, and helping people safely return to work, exercise, sports, and everyday life. Dr. Balar is now seeing patients at Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics’ Freehold location, bringing expert, personalized sports medicine care closer to home. Appointments are available at 901 West Main Street, Building A, Suite 267, Freehold. Call (888) 741-7272 or visit PrincetonBrainAndSpine.com to schedule a consultation today.
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Beyond Surgery
V Plastic Surgery Supports Breast Cancer Patients Through Their Journey
D
BY REBECCA KING
r. Rahul Vemula, the founder of V Plastic Surgery in West Long Branch, remembers a young woman he helped treat early in his career who received a devastating breast cancer diagnosis. The woman was young, in her early thirties, with no family history of breast cancer. She told Vemula, who was on his plastic surgery rotation at the time, that her plastic surgeon gave her hope after her diagnosis. Her breast reconstruction, she said, made her feel whole again. “It was very profound,” he said. “And as I did more research, I just wanted to be part of the journey to help women going through this horrible diagnosis.” Inspired by that experience, Vemula, who initially wanted to pursue cardiology or heart surgery, decided to specialize in plastic surgery. V Plastic Surgery, which Vemula opened in 2020, puts a particular emphasis on compassionate and thorough care for breast cancer patients. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, a time when we’re reminded of the staggering fact that one in eight women is diagnosed with breast cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. “It’s a scary statistic. Everyone knows someone who has had breast cancer. People think that it’s not going to happen to them, but I’ve seen so many women in the prime of their lives who have to stop everything to treat their cancer. It’s devastating,” said Vemula.
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He knows that having a plastic surgeon there every step of the way helps alleviate some of the stress of the diagnosis. “It’s really rewarding,” he added, “seeing people leave the office knowing there’s hope. That they can beat this.”
ber of the support team is a cancer navigator, a trained professional who guides a patient and their family through the challenges of a cancer diagnosis. “It’s a continual process that we’re always trying to improve,” said Vemula.
A Team of Experts Early detection, said Vemula, is key when treating breast cancer. “Most women should start getting mammograms regularly after they turn 40,” said Dr. Vemula. “The vast majority are normal, but if you skip years, you open the door to missing an early diagnosis.” However, if the worst happens and cancer is detected, Vemula stressed that a patient is never alone. After diagnosis, a board of medical professionals, including an oncologist, radiologist and plastic surgeon, comes together to discuss the treatment plan. V Plastic Surgery works with Monmouth County’s local healthcare systems directly, so the option for breast reconstruction is considered from the start. Patients in New Jersey, said Vemula, are fortunate. There’s a wealth of topnotch medical institutions in the state, particularly in Monmouth County, and plenty of collaboration between plastic surgeons and oncologists. Another mem-
Individualized Reconstruction The options V Plastic Surgery offers breast cancer patients are “highly individualized,” said Vemula. Breast reconstruction is an option for women who receive lumpectomies, when a smaller part of the breast is removed, and a mastectomy, when the entire breast is removed. “A lot of women don’t know that they can get reconstruction during a lumpectomy to prevent contour irregularities or even get one months or years after a lumpectomy if the procedure leaves some kind of divet or irregularity,” said Vemula. V Plastic Surgery often performs oncoplastic reconstruction, which combines a lumpectomy with plastic surgery techniques in a single operation to preserve or restore the natural shape of the breast, meaning the tumor is removed and the beginning stages of breast reconstruction are done in one surgery. “Many of my patients are surprised that we work in close conjunction with
the surgical oncologist to plan out their incisions. A lot of the time, we work hand in hand,” said Vemula. There are many options for reconstruction, and most, Vemula explained, require several surgeries. “We have to build the breast back up in stages,” said Vemula. In some cases, Vemula’s team will insert a tissue expander into the breast at the time of the initial surgery and slowly fill it with saline solution over several weekly visits to the office. The skin naturally expands before the tissue expander is exchanged for a breast implant. “The implants that we have now aren’t like the ones that we had in the 1980s,” said Dr. Vemula. “They’re more natural, mimic the feeling of breast tissue, and are more durable.” Another procedure, called natural tissue breast reconstruction, takes skin and fat from one area of the patient. It uses that natural tissue to build the breast and reconnect the blood vessels. Common areas tissue is taken from include the abdomen (DIEP Flap) or the thigh (PAP flap). “It feels like a breast and ages like a breast. The patient often avoids the need for a breast implant with this technique.
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This is one of the things we specialize in, and not all plastic surgeons are trained in this procedure,” said Vemula. Care That’s Covered Of the many misconceptions about breast reconstruction that Vemula encounters, the cost is one of the biggest. “So many people are surprised to find out that their breast reconstruction is covered by insurance,” said Vemula. The Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 is a federal law that requires private health insurance plans that cover breast cancer surgeries to also cover breast reconstruction and related care. The Act mandates that surgery must also be covered on the nonaffected breast if it needs a procedure to create a balanced, symmetrical look. Indeed, Vemula said, many of his patients choose to get both breasts removed at the time of their mastectomy to diminish the chance of breast cancer coming back. “A lot of my patients find going back for mammograms after breast cancer very traumatic,” he said. Those who opt for a double mastectomy can, in most cases, rest easy knowing their insurance will cover both sides of their reconstruction. Most insurance plans also cover revision breast reconstruction. Vemula often performs surgeries for breast reconstructions that were performed elsewhere many years ago and now need a revision surgery. “I’m always happy to get on the phone with doctors, insurance companies, and family members to make sure everyone understands the process,” said Vemula. A Community Effort V Plastic Surgery is also looking ahead to the future of breast reconstruction. The office is involved in a clinical trial for women with breast implants who have experienced capsular contracture, a condition in which tissue around breast implants becomes painful and hard, creating a disfiguring look. The trial, Vemula said, involves placing a mesh around the breast implant to reduce the likelihood of capsular contracture recurring. The practice is also involved in community fundraising and support for breast cancer awareness in Monmouth County. Dr. Manpreet Kohli, one of the breast surgeons that Dr. Vemula works with, is the founder of I Pink I Can, an organization that provides financial assistance to breast cancer patients. “All the money raised goes directly to the patients for things we don’t even think about, like the cost to go to and from the hospital and groceries,” said Vemula. The practice participates in the annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer event in Point Pleasant Beach as well, and the team is often joined by former patients. Vemula also points to Mary’s Place by the Sea in Ocean Grove, which runs wellness retreats and support groups for women free of charge. “There are a lot of resources out there,” said Vemula. “We’re very privileged to live in this area where we have all these resources.” V Plastic Surgery is located at 107 Monmouth Road, Bldg C, Suite 201, West Long Branch. Go to doctorvnj.com for more information. 54
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