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Happy New Year 2025!

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ll across Monmouth County, residents are celebrating the New Year and making their resolutions. Here’s what some of our readers are looking forward to in 2025…

Leesha Floyd, Asbury Park I’m looking forward to traveling, good food, and good drinks.

Margaret Wheeler, Asbury Park I’m looking forward to finally going to Europe.

Joann Boos, Asbury Park Looking forward to a less stressful year.

Daniel Pickelny, Ocean In 2025, I’m looking forward to finishing my classes and making big steps in my career.

ChrisAnn DeGenaro, Asbury Park I’m looking forward to better health, fitness, and making new friends.

Michele Alonso, Asbury Park I’ll be making more time in 2025 for friends and family.

Sarah Neczesny, Fair Haven I’m looking forward to graduating college!

Anthony Cucci, Asbury Park In 2025, I’ll be continuing my goal of visiting all the national parks, as well as visiting every diner in New Jersey!

Michele Burrell, Asbury Park Looking forward to new beginnings.

Sylvia Sylvia-Cioffi, Ocean I’m really excited about going on a family vacation to Spain and Portugal this year.

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE TO YOU! Jamie Eckhoff, Rumson I’m looking forward to my sister’s wedding, and for new film opportunities in New Jersey.

Cassandra Dickerson, Asbury Park Great health and continued love for my family.

Morgan Astorino, Asbury Park Traveling! And hopefully going back to my favorite city, New Orleans.

Meg Ryan, Ocean In 2025, I’m looking forward to starting my first full time job and potentially starting graduate school.

Vinny Mangano, Asbury Park Looking forward to going to more concerts.

John Hayes, Asbury Park Looking forward to my 20th wedding anniversary.

The Community Magazine staff celebrates 2025 as well! Here’s what some of us are looking forward to…

Emma Sylvia, Ocean I’m looking forward to another year of actually sticking to my New Year’s resolutions. In 2024, my goal was to watch more movies and go to the gym - both of which I accomplished. In 2025, my goal is to write more and practice art.

Roseanne Sofia, Lincroft I’m excited to get into the best shape of my life and take more walks in the park in 2025.

Ryan Loughlin, Asbury Park I am looking forward to doing more outdoorsy things this year. Hiking at Yosemite and finally snowboarding again after a 22-year hiatus are both at the top of my list.

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ost-holiday blues got you down?

With the short days and long winter ahead, it’s easy to get the blues around this time of year. But although it’s admittedly not the most thrilling month of the year, January is the perfect time to enjoy cozy indoor activities.

Here are some ideas for indoor fun: 1. Board Games or Card Games Gather your family or friends for a fun game night. Classic board games like Monopoly, Scrabble, or newer ones like Codenames can keep everyone entertained. Card games like Poker, Uno, or Go Fish are also great options.

2. Indoor Movie Marathon Set up a cozy spot with blankets and pillows, and watch a series of movies or binge-watch a show. You can even make it a themed movie marathon (e.g., holiday movies, superhero films, or nostalgic 90s flicks).

5. Puzzles Tackle a large jigsaw puzzle, which can be a calming and satisfying activity. You can also try crosswords, Sudoku, or other brain teasers.

4. Crafting Try your hand at crafting projects like knitting, painting, scrapbooking, or even

12

making homemade holiday decorations.

It’s a creative way to spend time indoors and you might even have something to show for it!

5. Baking or Cooking Winter is a great time to bake. Try making cookies, cakes, or bread. You could also cook a hearty winter meal or soup.

The warmth of the oven and the smell of freshly baked goods can make the house feel extra cozy.

6. Reading Curl up with a good book and enjoy the winter silence. You could also join a virtual book club or listen to audiobooks for a different experience.

7. Indoor Gardening If you miss nature in the winter, you can bring the outdoors in by starting an indoor garden. Try growing herbs, small vegetables, or indoor plants like succulents and ferns.

8. DIY Home Spa Turn your bathroom into a relaxing retreat with a DIY spa day. Light candles, use essential oils, take a long bath, and do skincare treatments.

9. Virtual Events Many events like live concerts, theater

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

performances, or museum tours are available online. Check out virtual experiences for a fun, cultural escape from the cold.

10. Home Workouts If you want to stay active, try an indoor workout like yoga, Pilates, or a dance party. Many apps or YouTube channels offer free classes for all levels.

11. Indoor Obstacle Course or Hide-and-Seek If you have kids or are looking for something active, create an indoor obstacle course with pillows, chairs, and other furniture. Or, play hide-and-seek throughout the house.

12. Learn Something New Winter is a great time to pick up a new hobby or learn a skill. Try learning a new language, taking an online course, or teaching yourself to play an instrument.

13. Building a Fort Sometimes, the simplest activities are the most fun! Build a fort out of blankets and pillows, and hang out in your cozy hideaway. You could even have a picnic or watch a movie inside.

These activities are great for keeping the winter blues at bay while staying cozy and entertained indoors!

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January EVENTS CALENDAR

EVERY SUNDAY Beats & Crafts with DJ Ghost Gardner Join Ghost Gardener Studios for a lo-fi, lowkey craft night at The Asbury Hotel every Sunday.

The Asbury Hotel, 210 5th Ave, Asbury Park 7pm - 10pm For more information, visit theasburyhotel.com

SATURDAY, JANUARY 4 Magic of Lights Visit the PNC Bank Arts Center for the final night of their Magic of Lights drivethrough holiday lights experience.

PNC Bank Arts Center 116 Garden State Pkwy, Holmdel 5pm - 11pm For more information, visit magicoflights.com

TUESDAY-WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31-JANUARY 1 New Year’s Eve Party w/ Friend Zone Celebrate the New Year at Marina Grille in Belmar.

Belmar Marina, 905 NJ-35, Belmar 8pm - 1am For more information, visit marinagrillenj.com

SUNDAY, JANUARY 5 Luminocity Holiday Lights Festival Head to Freehold Raceway Mall for the final night of the 2024 Holiday Lights Festival, “Wonder of Journey”.

Northwest Parking Lot (Rt 33 Entrance), Freehold Raceway Mall, Freehold 4:30pm - 10pm For more information, visit freeholdracewaymall.com

NYE Celebration at Ocean Place Resort & Spa Head over to the Ocean Place Resort and Spa to celebrate the New Year.

Ocean Place, 1 Ocean Blvd, Long Branch 8pm - 12:15am For more information, visit oceanplace.com New Year’s Eve at McLoone’s Have delicious food, a champagne toast, and watch fireworks this New Year’s Eve. McLoone’s Pier House One Ocean Ave, Long Branch 11am - 12am For more information, visit mcloonespierhouse.com FRIDAY, JANUARY 3 Open Mic Night Head to Twin Lights Brewing to participate in their monthly Open Mic Night, hosted by Tim Enny.

Twin Lights Brewing 4057 Asbury Ave, Tinton Falls 6pm - 10pm For more information, visit twinlightsbrewing.com

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Kringle Cove Holiday Festivus Celebrate the holiday season at Whitechapel’s Holiday Pop-Up, Kringle Cove.

15 2nd Ave, Long Branch 5pm For more information, visit whitechapelprojects.com SATURDAY, JANUARY 11 The Mountain Jam Band Head to the Wonder Bar for a celebration of the music of The Allman Brothers Band.

Wonder Bar 1213 Ocean Ave N, Asbury Park 7pm - 11pm For more information, visit wonderbarasburypark.com THURSDAY, JANUARY 16 Monmouth Park Corporate Center Pop Up Support local vendors every third Thursday of every month, in a vibrant space of treats, clothing, jewelry, candles, and more.

185 NJ-36 Building D, West Long Branch 11am - 4pm For more information, ymcanj.org/mlk

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THURSDAY, JANUARY 16 - SUNDAY, JANUARY 19 Light of Day Winterfest 25th Anniversary Celebrate the power of music to raise money and awareness to fight Parkinson’s Disease, ALS and PSP. Various venues, Red Bank, Asbury Park For more information, visit lightofday.org FRIDAY, JANUARY 17 YMCA’s 36th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Breakfast Celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with the YMCA of Greater Monmouth County’s annual commemorative breakfast.

Ocean Place Resort & Spa 1 Ocean Blvd, Long Branch 7:30am - 9:30am For more information, ymcanj.org/mlk SATURDAY, JANUARY 18 Candice Guardino’s Italian Bred Head over to Two River Theater for this must-see comedy special, starring Candice Guardino.

Two River Theater 21 Bridge Ave, Red Bank Showings: 2pm, 8pm For more information, visit tworivertheater.org 2025 LADACIN Plunge Make a splash at the LADACIN Plunge and have post-plunge fun at Leggett’s Sand Bar and Restaurant.

Leggett’s Sand Bar 217 1st Ave, Manasquan 10:30am - 3pm For more information, visit ladacin.org FRIDAY, JANUARY 24 The Tempest Watch Two River Theater’s Little Shakespeare production of The Tempest.

Two River Theater 21 Bridge Ave, Red Bank For more information, visit tworivertheater.org

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Dream Weddings in the Park

Weddings and Special Events

To the bride and groom…

Community Magazine’s Guide to Weddings and Special Events

BY EMMA SYLVIA

G

etting engaged is the fun part. Seeing the ring, telling friends and family and fantasizing about the wedding of your dreams and the life you and your spouse will build together is all a part of the fuzzy afterglow of a perfect engagement. You are on cloud nine, and that’s where you should be!

But then there is the realization that in order to

Charlie's of Lincroft ­— The Great Room

16

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

have the wedding of your dreams, you need to PLAN the wedding of your dreams. Yikes!

And it’s not just weddings — for any special event to be memorable and run smoothly, you need to have the right pieces in place. That’s why we created this list of resources and recommendations in order for you to make sure the visions you have in your head for your special day turn out to be the reality as well.

GUIDE

JUST MARRIED

WEDDINGS AND SPECIAL EVENTS GUIDE

Charlie's of Lincroft ­— The Wine Room

The Venue…

When choosing a venue for a wedding or special event, obviously the options are going to seem endless — because they are! And there are many spaces that offer a fabulous experience, whether you are looking for upscale fanciness or rustic charm.

But if we had to go with just one spot, we think that Charlie’s of Lincroft is the perfect all-around venue to make your wedding day a memorable one. Charlie’s is renowned for their award-winning menu, exquisite decor, and mouth-watering cuisine. Charlie’s of Lincroft offers fine contemporary American fare in a casual, but elegant setting.

Charlie’s offers two spectacular settings to choose from for your perfect wedding: • The Great Room — With its exquisite interior design, The Great Room can accommodate up to 75 guests. The centerpiece of the space is a gorgeous, handcrafted stone fireplace and wood-beamed Cathedral ceiling that delivers an unmatched charm.

• The Wine Room — The Wine Room is set beneath

the building, a spectacular old-world wine cellar with an arched stone ceiling and rustic, hand-forced metal chandelier, all surrounded by the world’s finest wines. The Wine Room is an intimate setting that can serve up to 40 guests.

Charlie’s of Lincroft is also a fabulous choice for bridal showers, baby showers, holiday parties, rehearsal dinners, anniversaries, engagement dinners and more.

To schedule a visit or for more information on hosting your wedding or special event, contact the Events Department of Charlie’s at 732-276-1214 The Drinks…

Tipsy Saddle is the perfect accent to your already perfect day. A Monmouth County-based mobile bartending service, Tipsy Saddle elevates your wedding (or other special event) with their trailer, portable bars, or utilizing your athome bar. Sam Marchetti of Tipsy Saddle supplies all mixers and materials and works with clients to craft their perfect cocktail menu.

MonmouthCommunity.com JANUARY 2025

17

WEDDINGS AND SPECIAL EVENTS GUIDE “It’s the overall experience, not just for the wedding party, but for the guests as well,” Marchetti says.

Using a flipped horse trailer converted to a bar, Marchetti ensures a vibrant and cool aesthetic that can match any wedding’s color scheme. Serving indoor and outdoor weddings, Tipsy Saddle travels all over New Jersey.

Tipsy Saddle also offers easily customizable packages: • The Derby - Beer, Wine, Champagne Service Flat Rate + $3 per person • The Stallion - Beer, Wine, Champagne Service, Cocktail Service, and 1 Signature Cocktail Flat rate + $5 per person • The Stud - Beer, Wine, Champagne Service, Cocktail Service, and 2 Signature Cocktails Flat rate + $5 per person • The Trifecta - Beer, Wine, Champagne Service, Cocktail Service, and 3 Signature Cocktail Flat rate + $8 per person Find out more at TipsySaddle.com The Flowers …

Pantano Outdoor Supply, a retail garden center in Holmdel, provides perfect tips about floral arrangements for your upcoming wedding. We sat down with Floral Design Manager, Travis Baez, to fill you in on all you need to know.

CM: What type of floral arrangements are trending this season?

TB: We are seeing lots of airy, organic, asymmetrical types of floral arrangements trending still.

Outside of bridal party work, when it comes to tables, especially with the long, farm table-like setting, many brides lean away from a traditional larger arrangement and prefer multiple bud vases with single or small groupings of stems, mixed in with smaller arrangements.

CM: What are the main differences of arrangements between seasons?

TB: We try our best to buy local products, and we are very fortunate to have many wonderful local growers. So, the largest difference is going to be the materials available in each season. When it comes to fall, you will see lots of the natural muted tones, dried flowers, or foliage of the season, whereas in winter we incorporate more winter greens and stems. Into spring is when we see a lot more color, as tulips or hellebores begin to bloom. Spring is a great opportunity to add seasonal branches, especially items such Pantano Home and Garden 18

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

props. Our goal is to create your vision. Trust your florist WEDDINGS AND with that. When it comes to SPECIAL EVENTS GUIDE wedding planning, there is a lot that goes on, so trust us with the details!

CM: Anything else the bride and groom should know?

TB: With 30 years of experience, my favorite part of this work doesn't just start or end at the wedding. Many of the brides I have worked with for their engagement parties, showers, and continued with baby showers through 1st birthdays.

It's the best feeling to be entrusted in creating an atmosphere for special occasions throughout their growing lives.

The Caterers …

Opting to have the food brought into your event space?

Monmouth County has some of the best of the best when it comes to caterers. For your wedding, consider the following: Falco’s — For more than 25 years, Falco’s Catering has provided catering for weddings across Monmouth and Ocean Counties. They’ve worked with some of the most popular venues for weddings, including The Renaissance, The Asbury Hotel, The Stone Pony, Bayonet Farm, and many more.

Head to FalcosCatering.com for more information.

Pantano Home and Garden

as cherry blossoms or other locally budding stems. This is a great way to add height to a room while still keeping that airy look. Summer is prime time for our native wildflowers, which is perfect for the trending wild "from your garden to table" look that is desired. We also can get more into brighter colors and tropical florals, which work perfectly for summer shore weddings.

CM: What’s your personal favorite floral arrangement?

TB: While I truly love creating one-of-a-kind bouquets for a bride's special day, my favorite work is outside of the bridal party. Large floral installation is my true passion. Whether it is creating a large installation for an altar, where vows are going to be exchanged, or setting the tone with a large arch as guests enter the venue's entrance, or a stunning, show stopping ceiling installed over the dance floor, is where we can truly create the romantic atmosphere.

CM: Do you have any advice for soon-to-be newlyweds about their floral arrangements?

TB: Make an inspiration board – Pinterest is great, as you can share it with your wedding party, vendors, and anyone else invested in creating your special day. Don't just source pictures from your exact venue, as a lot of importation can come from everywhere. And add all the details – your wedding dress style, color palette, florals, linens, invitation, etc.

All of this will help your florist create the overall vision you're striving for. Also — remember that a florist's support doesn't just involve flowers. Many florists will assist in creating your overall vision, which includes candles, linens, silverware, and

La Dolce Vita — Celebrate your wedding with authentic Italian cuisine, catered by La Dolce Vita in Belmar. For more than a quarter century, La Dolce Vita has provided tailored menus for your one-of-a-kind wedding.

Contact La Dolce Vita at 732-749-3177 The Memories …

You are going to want to remember all the fun and silly moments from your big day. What better way to do just that than to have a photo booth onsite?

Pop Shop Photobooth — Pop Shop Photobooth both enhances your wedding experience and gives you the coolest, best way to remember your wedding night. Their retro cameras bring an old-school charm to your special night. Pop Shop Photobooth also comes with: • On-site printing • Premium and custom backdrops • Digital sharing options • Retro props • Customizable Templates • Guestbooks • Fantastic customer service and attendants Call Pop Shop Photobooth at 732-301-4339 or visit PopShopPhotoBooth.com for more information.

NJ Wedding Pros — Based in Fair Haven, NJ Wedding Pros is New Jersey’s one-stop wedding and event center.

They offer streamlined, all-inclusive offerings, including floral arrangements, day-of coordination, photography, videography, entertainment and more!

NJ Wedding Pros was awarded the 2023 Winner in The Knot Best of Weddings, representing the highest-rated wedding professionals as reviewed by real couples on The Knot.

Get a quote at njweddingpros.com

MonmouthCommunity.com JANUARY 2025

19

WEDDINGS AND SPECIAL EVENTS GUIDE

Community Magazine Venue Recommendations IPLAY AMERICA 104 Schanck Rd, Freehold, NJ (732) 577-8200 www.theeventcenteratipa.com The Event Center at iPlay America is the most versatile convention destination in the Northeast. Conveniently located just minutes from most major highways in Central New Jersey, and with over 45,000 square feet of premium event space, every meeting and event will exceed your expectations.

618 618 Park Ave, Freehold Borough, NJ (732) 577-0001 www.618nj.com THE BANQUET ROOM — A stunning, unique rustic space for weddings, 618 easily transforms into the perfect setting for your special day. All you have to do is say “I do.” Seating up to 170 guests, this large room is ideal for weddings, showers, Sweet 16s, large rehearsal dinners, birthdays, bat/bar mitzvahs, corporate events, non-profit fundraisers, alumni events and so much more!

THE ALL SEASONS ROOM — This (private) space is comprised of large windows, brick walls, lots of greenery, beautiful large chandeliers and a gorgeous fireplace. This room gives off a romantic, yet modern vibe. Perfect for ceremonies, cocktail hours, showers, birthday & anniversary parties, corporate events and more.

MEXIMODO 5 Pearl Street, Metuchen, NJ (732) 395-7767 www.meximodo.com THE ROSE ROOM — The Rose Room is ideal for hosting a variety of events, including private dinners, cocktail parties, and corporate events. It offers a unique and memorable setting that is sure to impress guests and create a sense of exclusivity and sophistication. With its mix of vintage charm and modern amenities, the Rose Room at Meximodo is a truly special event space. Seats up to 50 THE PATIO — The outdoor seating area is situated in a spacious plaza in the heart of Metuchen surrounded by classic brick walls. The overall effect is a modern and vibrant outdoor dining experience that transports guests to the lively streets of Mexico. Plus, you get a beautiful view of the Metuchen residents passing through the plaza. Seats up to 60 CATERERS IN PARK/PARK CHATEAU For dream wedding in a park setting check out the following: • NANINA'S IN THE PARK 540 Mill Street, Belleville, NJ • 973-751-1230 www.naninasinthepark.com

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• PARK CHATEAU ESTATE & GARDENS 678 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick, NJ • 732-238-4200 www.parkchateau.com • THE PARK SAVOY ESTATE 236 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park, NJ • 973-377-7100 www.theparksavoy.com TRIUMPH RESTAURANT & BREWERY 1 Bridge Avenue, Red Bank, NJ (732) 852-7300 info@triumphbrew.com www.triumphbrewing.com Triumph Brewing offers a unique venue for weddings and rehearsal dinners as well as for business meetings, presentations, and private parties.

MCLOONE'S RESTAURANTS The Rum Runner 816 Ocean Avenue, Sea Bright, NJ • (732) 842-2894 www.mcloonesrumrunner.com CJ McLoone's Pub & Grille 560 Shrewsbury Ave., Tinton Falls, NJ • (732) 268-7802 www.cjmcloones.com THE RUM RUNNER offers a multitude of accommodations for events of any size. All event spaces have breathtaking views of the Shrewsbury River and Atlantic Ocean. Contact their banquet coordinator today to schedule a walk through!

For more information please email rrbanquets@mcloones. com, call 732-383-8155, or visit mcloonesrumrunner.com.

CJ MCLOONE'S — To inquire about an event, please contact them by phone 732-268-7802 or email at cj_banquets_ fwd@mcloones.com, or visit cjmcloones.com.

CHARLIE'S OF LINCROFT 700 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, NJ 732-812-4500 www.charliesoflincroft.com Make your private event a memorable one at Charlie’s of Lincroft, with two spectacular settings to choose from.

THE GREAT ROOM — With its exquisite interior design, The Great Room can accommodate up to 75 guests. The centerpiece of the space is it’s hand-crafted stone fireplace & wood-beamed cathedral ceiling, a perfect environment for you to host an intimate wedding, bridal or baby shower, or any other special event.

THE WINE ROOM — Set beneath the building they have created a spectacular old world wine cellar with a stone arched ceiling and rustic hand-forged metal chandeliers. All of this is surrounded by the world’s finest wines. The Wine Room is a unique and intimate setting that can serve up to 40 guests.

Fly Like an Eagle

Monmouth County’s Eagle Scouts work to improve their communities

BY EMMA SYLVIA

E

agle Scouts across the country aim to improve their communities, and the Eagle Scouts in Monmouth County are no different.

Eagle Scouts have projects that focus on improving one aspect of their community, often an environmental concern. One Eagle Scout, Edward Stuart of Freehold, is aiming to preserve agricultural history at the Oakley Farm Museum in Freehold Township.

Stuart researches and displays information about 82 tools and implements from the 19th century. His cataloging includes photographing, naming, displaying, and safely restoring each implement. Stuart attends Freehold High School, with aspirations to become a high school history teacher or a museum curator. Stuart also is involved in concert and marching bands, drama club, and serves as a lector at St. Rose of Lima Church.

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Another Scout working at Oakley Farm is Samuel Fung of Manalapan, who aims to construct a drainage ditch at the farm’s woodshed. Intending to increase safety and reduce structural hazards around the woodshed’s foundation, the project overall enhances the landscaping at Oakley Farm. Fung, of Manalapan, is in several AP classes at Freehold Township High School. He is a CPR-certified member of Manalapan’s Teen CERT (Community Emergency Response Team), and the Language Department Volunteer Supervisor at Monmouth Fidelity Chinese School in Marlboro.

A Junior at the Christian Brothers Academy in Lincroft, Colin Pinguelo focuses on the outdoor trail at Colts Neck Fire Co. #1. Pinguelo is part of numerous AP classes at Christian Brothers Academy as well as taking part in SADD (Students Against Drunk

MonmouthCommunity.com JANUARY 2025

23

Driving) and working on the school’s yearbook. Pinguelo lauds CBA, saying: “The way CBA works, there’s a spot for everyone. They foster your education and have offered me chances to grow as a student and a person.”

Pinguelo attributes his own personal growth not only to CBA but to his time as an Eagle Scout. Initially inspired to become an Eagle Scout by his brother’s involvement in the program, Pinguelo saw an opportunity to leap at the chances given to aid his community.

“My brother was a Boy Scout and then became an Eagle Scout. He was a big motivator for me. I saw the opportunity he was given and the chances he had to help the community – and I never looked back,” he says.

Pinguelo’s Eagle project entails clearing, cleaning up, marking and enhancing the outdoor trail at Colts Neck Fire Company #1. The trail provides the fire department personnel with a functional green space that is utilized for meetings. Cleaning up this trail provides social, physical, and mental ben-

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efits to Colts Neck’s firefighters. “And the town uses it for their yearly Halloween event, which helps raise money for the fire department,” Pinguelo notes.

With this kind of dedication to the

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community, Eagle Scouts like Pinguelo, Fung and Stuart give residents in Monmouth County a reason to see the potential that lies within the next generation.

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Breakfast + Lunch = Happiness 5 Spots for the Tastiest Brunches in Monmouth County

BY RYAN LOUGHLIN

T

hose who love breakfast but also love sleeping in on the weekends are often stuck in a dilemma, as by the time you get around to rolling out of bed, breakfast time is a thing of the past, and most people in your home will likely have lunch on the brain. This is where the ever-popular hybrid meal of brunch comes to the rescue every time! A perfect solution for late sleepers (or simply those indecisive folks who can’t choose between breakfast and lunch), brunch offers the best of both worlds, solving one of Sunday morning’s trickiest conundrums. Here are some of the best spots to brunch in Monmouth County:

R Bar Charlie's of Lincroft

R Bar, Asbury Park R Bar sets itself apart within Asbury’s much-celebrated restaurant scene by NOT being located on either Cookman or Ocean Avenues, instead, this New Orleans-themed spot takes up residence on Main Street, away from the trendiest spots in town. But R Bar is worth walking a few blocks for, as the gorgeously designed space is a visual pleaser, and the Sunday brunch is one of the most unique in town.

The drink menu is as fun as it gets (yes, another of brunch’s big advantages is that it’s somehow socially acceptable to drink your way through it) and standouts like the Erin Rose’s Frozen Irish Coffee — a delicious tip of the cap to the much-loved version from the Erin Rose bar in New Orleans — provide a fine start to the meal. Apps like the Crab Beignets and Broiled Oysters continue the Big Easy theme, but our pick is the Cacio e Pepe Deviled Eggs, which come topped with a blizzard of parmesan and a side of bread and oil for mixing and dipping when you are done.

Standout entrees include the fabulous Blackened Shrimp & Grits, Bananas Foster French Toast or the ultimate indecisive eater’s go-to, Chicken and Waffles.

R Bar is located at 1114 Main St. in Asbury Park.

ItsRBar.com Charlie’s of Lincroft, Lincroft Brunch is one of the few meals that can both take place early in the day and somehow be fancy as well. For those seeking the most elegant and classy of brunch experiences, Charlie’s of Lincroft is one of the best options in all of Monmouth County.

A full drink menu loaded with wines, martinis and signature cocktails sets the tone, with our current pick being the wonderfully-seasonal “Cranberry Sauced” — a mix of Tres Agaves tequila, Bogg’s Cranberry Liqueur, Cointreau, cranberry syrup and lime juice, with a rosemary sugar rim.

Apps skate from straightforward options like sticky buns to

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their Asian-themed Spicy Tuna Rainbow, a playful dance of spicy tuna, crispy sushi rice, hamachi, jalapeño, sriracha aioli, wasabi aioli, and ginger soy. For main courses, you can lean toward breakfast with their Crab Cake Benedict, Huevos Rancheros, Bacon, Chorizo and Baked Egg Pizza or the utterly divine Tiramisu Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks (get the latter for the table to share no matter what) or opt for savory lunchstyle dishes such as Chalie’s House Burger or the Grilled Chicken Naan.

Charlie’s of Lincroft is located at 700 Newman Springs Road in Lincroft.

CharliesOfLincroft.com

Zoe’s Emilio’s Kitchen, Atlantic Highlands At most spots in our area that specialize in brunch dishes, the menus lean heavily toward American-style cuisine.

But the Mexican culinary influence is what makes a trip to Zoe’s Emilio’s Kitchen in Atlantic Highlands such a fun experience for a weekend breakfast or brunch.

There is no better way to kick off any Mexican meal than with a cinnamon-y

Zoe's Emilio's Kitchen

glass of horchata, and the one at Zoe’s is all but perfect. From there, exploring the menu is a delight, but a difficult one, as each dish sounds more mouthwatering than the next and picking just one will always be a difficult task. The less adventurous can play it safe with stand-

bys from the griddle, but even there the creativity shines, as options like the Blue Loaded Pancakes with blueberry batter, homemade blueberry jam and maple syrup; and the Flamed Banana French Toast with flamed bananas, vanilla, cinnamon and a drizzle of caramel can’t help but entice. The Mexican options for both breakfast and lunch are extensive too and include Chilaquiles, Huevos Rancheros, Tortas, Tacos, a Calamari Burrito and a lovely Beef Birria soup, but perhaps our favorite dish is the Costra de Queso omelet, which comes topped with queso sauce, salsa verde, and the ultimate secret weapon — a crispy blanket of cheese wrapped around the entire omelet. Picture the delightful burnt-orange crust on a southern baked mac and cheese bear-hugging an omelet like a taco shell.

That’s what this is. Order it.

Zoe’s Emilio’s Kitchen is located at 77 Center Ave. in Atlantic Highlands.

ZoesEmiliosKitchen.com.

Tatum's Table

Tatum’s Table, Lincroft Twenty-year old Tatum Manake launched Tatum’s Table earlier this year and the spot has quickly become a favorite for those in the area seeking the full package when it comes to brunch options. “I kept going out for breakfast or lunch in the area, and there was nothing that suited what I wanted,” said Menake of what inspired her to open Tatum’s Ta-

MonmouthCommunity.com JANUARY 2025

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Turning Point

ble. “Either the food would be good, but the coffee would be lacking, or vice versa. Nothing had the whole package.”

Tatum’s Table offers guests the whole package in the form of a massive (and frankly unmatched) menu of coffees, lattes and tea-based beverages, as well as a full lineup of skillets, omelets, breakfast sandwiches and tasty and one-of-a-kind dishes such as Tatum’s A.M. Party Mix — a mashup of quinoa with sautéed garden vegetables, fresh herbs, sautéed spinach, lemon juice, garlic oil and two eggs any style, which can be boosted by the addition of shrimp, chicken or NY Strip steak.

Those looking for brunchtime decadence will enjoy the griddle options, which feature such over-the-top choices as Fried Oreo Pancakes and Crème Brulee French Toast among others. Lunch comes in hot with fab apps like the Homemade Mac and Cheese Flight as well as a massive menu of main courses, which can be anything from paninis and burgers to bowls and salads. For a perfect brunch item- try the Rise & Shine Breakfast Burger — a

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prime beef patty served with a sunnyside-up egg, sausage patty, hash brown, pepper jack cheese and their own spicy maple aioli served on an English muffin.

Mmmmm …

Tatum’s Table is located at 650 Newman Springs Road in Lincroft.

Go to TatumsTable.com.

Turning Point, various locations: What started as one simple 12-table restaurant in Little Silver has transformed into a small army of eateries, and a staple meal of any great weekend at the Jersey Shore. That’s right, we are talking about Turning Point.

When the Turning Point launched in 1998, their mission was simple: “To serve the best breakfast, lunch and brunch we know how from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.” And that motto holds strong today, as this hotspot continues to crank out some of the best dishes in those categories, without fail.

We love to start things off with a New

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Orleans Cold Brew, a fab blend of roasted chicory with an oversized coffee ice cube.

From there it’s on to a pile of Warm Cinnamon Rolls for the table (something that has yet to get anything short of a roar of approval from everyone).

Entrees depend on mood. You can’t go wrong with the Key West Shrimp Omelet, with its all-star lineup of shrimp, avocado, bacon, tomato, cilantro and jack cheese; the Roadhouse Bacon Stack — a triple-stacked grilled cheese sandwich with thick-cut bacon, caramelized onions, tomato, and baby spinach topped with a smokehouse aioli on griddled sourdough bread; or one of the current seasonal specials like the Cannoli Pancakes — a trio of chocolate chip pancakes topped with cannoli cream, powdered sugar and a mini cannoli.

Turning Point has Monmouth County locations in Ocean Township, Holmdel, Little Silver, Manalapan, and Sea Girt.

Go to TurningPointRestaurants.com

FUTURE READY AT RCDS School unveils three state-of-the-art learning spaces for 21st century skills

L

earning has gotten even more hands-on and exciting at The Rumson Country Day School since the independent, N-8 school opened three state-of-the-art learning spaces in September: an innovation lab, a newly renovated woodshop, and a brand-new library.

Library and Innovation Lab Director Lisa Fallon said the spaces are designed to inspire future thinkers, creators, and problem solvers. “There is no project too big or too small,” said Mrs. Fallon. “If our students can envision it, plan it, and prototype it, they now have the resources at their fingertips to bring their ideas to fruition.”

The innovation lab is fully equipped with tools for building, coding, invention-making and more. From Nursery to Grade 8, and across the curriculum, classroom and specialist teachers are collaborating on projects that enrich the existing curriculum and develop 21st century skills. Kindergartners, for instance, expanded their civics study on voting by designing and building an operable voting booth. “It was amazing,” said Beginners teachers Carly Conley and Melissa Macaluso, who each lead a kindergarten class of 14 children. “The innovation lab transformed the civics study into something much bigger and better. It turned

into a really empowering experience for five-and-six-year-olds.”

Additionally, first graders created 3D maps of the school for an in-depth study on cartography while fourth graders mastered graphic design software to create monochromatic self-portraits connected to a visual arts study on the works of Shepard Fairey.

When RCDS seventh graders became immersed in the world of Greek mythology, they used the new learning spaces to bring timeless stories to life.

Each project, which encompassed podcasts, coded robots, and game boards, reflected a perfect blend of research, imagination, and teamwork.

Woodshop, a distinctive class offered at RCDS since 1928, continues to inspire students to explore design thinking and engineering in a newly updated room where craftsmanship

35 Bellevue Avenue • Rumson, NJ 07760 732.842.0527 • www.rcds.org/learnmore

meets modern technology. The new library creates an inviting space for reading and research that complements the teaching and learning happening in the woodshop and innovation lab. Its design blends the charm of the school’s original architecture with a contemporary twist and provides access to quiet study areas, collaborative workspaces, and a diverse selection of books and digital resources.

“We invest in facilities and learning spaces that serve the best interests of our students,” said Head of School Carson Smith, noting that plans for Phase II enhancements to the campus are underway. “The physical transformation of these key parts of our campus represents a significant step in our goal to equip students with essential 21st-century competencies while still emphasizing the importance of traditional skills, including reading, writing, public speaking, and mathematics.”

Join us! RCDS will host Coffee and Conversation for interested families on Thursday, Feb. 6, 10:15 a.m., at Oak Hill Farms. Visit www.rcds.org/ learnmore to RSVP or to learn more about the school.

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Plan your own funeral and make a difficult time a little bit easier for your loved ones.

We’re here to help you every step of the way. Call or stop by today.

BIZBEAT

BY RYAN LOUGHLIN

A quick roundup of what’s new and happening at local businesses in Monmouth County.

New Barnes and Noble location at Monmouth Mall opens

The Monmouth Mall has been mostly a construction site for the better part of the last year, with much of it being demolished outright, but one exciting new development is the relocation of the Barnes and Noble bookstore. Now located in a brand-new space slightly eastbound of their previous spot, the new store is open and bright and ready to serve bookworms everywhere! The new store is located at 180 Rt. 35 in Eatontown. BarnesAndNoble.com

Benchmark Breads opens first retail location in Little Silver

Benchmark Breads has been a popular staple at farmers markets throughout Monmouth County since the pandemic, but at the end of 2024 they finally opened their first retail location in Little Silver. The shop sells a variety of some of the most delicious sourdough breads you will find anywhere.

Benchmark Breads is located at 141 Markham Pl. in Little Silver. BenchmarkBreads.com

Rolling the dice at Barrio Costero’s Taco Tuesday

Anyone who has enjoyed a meal at Barrio Costero can attest to it being one of the best Mexican restaurants in the area. Though unquestionably delicious, the spot can be a bit pricey at times. That’s why their new Taco Tuesday deal is one of the best we have come across anywhere. Every Tuesday, patrons can now enjoy 3 tacos and a house margarita for $15. Not sweet enough of a deal for you? At the end of the meal, one person from your group gets the chance to roll the Barrio dice. Roll a 6 and your meal is on the house! Barrio Costero is located at 610 Bangs Ave. in Asbury Park. BarrioCostero.com

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HEALTH CORNER

Prioritizing

HEART HEALTH in the New Year

BY MAIA FRANCO

T

he New Year is the perfect time to set new goals and get healthy! While we tend to focus on health for aesthetic reasons in the new year, we need to begin focusing on one of the most important organs in the body: the heart. Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) is the leading cause of death in both men and women in New Jersey. In 2020, more than 19,700 residents of the state died of complications caused by CHD. Make 2025 the year you prioritize heart health and are aware of the signs and symptoms of a heart disease.

Signs of a heart attack: • Chest pain • Pain in other areas, such as the jaw, arm, shoulder, and neck • Rapid or irregular heartbeat • Shortness of breath • Heavily sweating (without exercising or being in a hot environment) • Nausea and vomiting • Overwhelming anxiety Atrial Fibrillation and Bradycardia: Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a heart condition that causes the upper chambers of the heart to beat irregularly and often rapidly. AFib can be triggered by drinking too much alcohol, smoking, being overweight, drinking too much caffeine, and taking illegal drugs. Someone may be at a risk for AFib if they are over 50, have heart failure, have high blood pressure, are obese, or have sleep apnea.

Bradycardia, also known as bradyarrhythmia, is a condition where the heart beats slower than 60 beats per minute (BPM) while at rest. A normal resting heart rate for adults is be-

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tween 60 and 100 BPM. Bradycardia can be caused by a number of things, including Cardiovascular conditioning, electrolyte imbalance, obstructive sleep apnea, inflammatory autoimmune diseases, and certain medications. Bradycardia can be a serious problem if the heart rate is too slow for the heart to pump enough oxygen-rich blood to the body. This can cause someone to feel dizzy, very tired or weak, and short of breath.

Advances in treatment: An implanted defibrillator is a battery-powered device inserted below the skin and has a vein that connects it to the heart for monitoring. The implanted defibrillator has the ability to change a person’s heartbeat when an abnormal rhythm is detected and can even send a shock, if needed. The implantable device treats conditions such as bradycardia atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, atrial tachycardia, ventricular tachycardia, and ventricular fibrillation. Physicians may recommend an implanted defibrillator to patients who have previously experienced a heart attack, or may be a risk for cardiac arrest. A Middletown resident, Jose, chose the implanted defibrillator because it gave him peace of mind. “When I experienced AFib, I was constantly worried about the next time I would go into it. With the implanted defibrillator, my heart rate is monitored constantly, my doctor has all of the data, and I know the AFib can be corrected if it happens again.”

If you feel you may be at risk for any of the following conditions, consult a cardiologist and discuss your options as soon as possible. If you experience any of the symptoms described in the conditions listed above, you may be having an emergency. Seek assistance from 911 immediately.

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Our picks for some fun nights out at local bars and restaurants this month MONDAYS (JAN. 6, 13, 20 AND 27) • 7-10 p.m.

Pat Guadagno Jamian’s Food and Drink, 79 Monmouth St. Red Bank JamiansFood.com

Food Fight

FRIDAYS (JAN. 3, 10, 17, 24 AND 31) • 6 p.m.

Live music Rooney’s Oceanfront Restaurant, 100 Ocean Ave N., Long Branch RooneysOcean.com FRIDAY, JAN 10 • 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Vinyl Traction Charley’s Ocean Grill, 29 Avenel Blvd. Long Branch CharleysOceanGrill.com

SATURDAY, JAN. 25 • 9 p.m.

Steve Reilly Band St. Stephen’s Green Publick House, RT 71, Spring Lake SSGPub.com FRIDAY, JAN. 31 • 8 p.m.- midnight Nine Deez Night The Proving Ground, 56 Shrewsbury Ave, Highlands TheProvingGround.com

NOVEMBER

2024

• OCEANPORT • LITTLE SILVER FAIR HAVEN • SEA BRIGHT RUMSON • SHREWSBURY

Purpose Yoga Headstands for Hunger

and the Currency of Karma

PLUS:

most Gobbling up the delectable donuts Yoga with a Purpose NOVEMBER

2024

• BRADLEY BEACH SEA • BELMAR BEACH • AVON BY THE • ASBURY PARK BRANCH • MONMOUTH ALLENHURST ARBOUR • LONG COMO • LOCH DEAL • LAKE

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Planting a Seed Cardinale Enterprises

Creates ‘The Disney of the Northeast’ While Fighting for a Cure

PLUS: l for 5 Things to be Thankfu in Monmouth County Four-legged fun!

NOVEMBER EATONTOWN

2024

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Bringing Dinosaurs to Life

um’s Monmouth Museres Exhibit Captu Ages of All Imaginations

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THURSDAY, JAN. 16 • 7 p.m. (Doors at 5:30 p.m.)

The Jersey Shore Medium Linda Shields Tim McLoone’s Supper Club, 1200 Ocean Ave., Asbury Park TimMcloonesSupperClub.com FRIDAY, JAN. 24 • 5-8 p.m.

Quincy Mumford Deal Lake Bar + Co,600 Main St. Loch Arbour DealLakeBarCo.com

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MONDAY, WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY, FRIDAY AND SATURDAY, ALL MONTH LONG • 6 p.m.

Live music Bar Anticipation, 703 16th Ave., Lake Como Bar-A.com THURSDAYS, FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS, all month long Live music The Cabin, 984 NJ-33, Freehold Thursday, 6-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 8:30-11:30 p.m.

TheCabinNJ.com

PLUS:

ntha Farrugia, 16 year-old Sama Lunch Break , for who volunteers e healthy meals battles to provid to those in need

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NOVEMBER ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS

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Rescue Ridge Animal Rescue

A Sanctuary for Animals in Need

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PLUS: l for 5 Things to be Thankfu in Monmouth County Heartstrings Makes

Beautiful Music NOVEMBER

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BOROUGH •

2024

HOWELL

Pick up a copy of our latest edition in these locations!

Zone 1 (Colts Neck/Holmdel Area): Atlantic Eye (Holmdel) Dearborn Market Pantano Home & Garden Giannis (Colts Neck) Rustic Roots Zone 2 (Rumson/Fair Haven Area): Atlantic Eye Shrewsbury Volkswagen Shoprite Foodtown (Red Bank) Gianni’s (Red Bank) Allaire Lounge and Liquor Zone 3 (Jersey Shore Area): Foodtown (Sea Girt) Shoprite (Belmar) Shoprite (Neptune) Asbury Park City Hall Asbury Park Book Cooperative Purpose Yoga Zone 4 (Ocean Township Area): Blue Swan Sunset Diner Pop’s Bagels Gianni’s (Ocean) All Seasons Diner Zone 5 (Middletown Area): Shoprite (Middletown) Booskerdoo (Middletown) Foodtown (Atlantic Highlands) Atlantic Bagel Co (Atlantic Highlands) Foodtown (Port Monmouth) Brookdale’s Monmouth Museum Zone 6 (Freehold Area): Lomurro Law 618 Restaurant Shoprite (Freehold) Manhattan Bagel (Freehold) NJ Leaf

Check out our digital editions online at monmouthcommunity.com

MonmouthCommunity.com JANUARY 2025

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L-R: Jessica Zwerin, Rotem Peretz, Rebecca Bernstein, Ronald H. Carlin, Michele Crupi, Frank J. LaRocca, Elissa A. Perkins, Joseph F. Defino

LAROCCA HORNIK ROSEN GREENBERG & CRUPI LLC in Freehold, New Jersey, is a team of experienced family law counselors and advocates. We guide people through the divorce process, resolve related issues involving children, property and support, and provide services that address other family law problems. Certified in Matrimonial Law by the Supreme Court of New Jersey, LaRocca is a founding partner of the LaRocca firm. The firm unites attorneys with substantial experience in family, business and lending law, who share a bedrock commitment to serving clients. LaRocca represents clients across New Jersey in state and appellate court, in arbitration and mediation. LaRocca’s career in family law to brings together his skills to help people through challenging times. Above all, he aims to be a counselor who guides clients through to their new lives.

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MonmouthCommunity.com JANUARY 2025

35

Ditch the Mess!

Got Clutter built a business around the joy of keeping things tidy

BY EMMA SYLVIA

J

udith Horowitz of Got Clutter cannot believe how far her company has grown since its inception.

Celebrating their 18th anniversary this upcoming May, Horowitz looks back on the early days and how the business began organically.

“It sorta fell in my lap,” she remembers.

“I joined a woman’s networking event, and from there I got my first client — I just had to help someone with renovation. From there, it went from unpacking and reorganizing homes to architectural plans, space planning, closet design and more.”

Got Clutter itself is a professional home and office organizing service, offering fullhome organization for their clients. “We work from everywhere in New York — including Long Island and Staten Island — to New Jersey, Connecticut, and Florida. We do jobs where we declutter, unpack, organize, and maintain.”

Helping to re-organize roughly 40 to 45 homes a year, Horowitz and her company are able to complete 99% of homes in just one day. “We’re a full-service business. We cater to each person and their personal needs. We really listen to our clients and what they want. We’re always there to make them happy. If they don’t like something, we’ll change it,” Horowitz says.

With 2025 here and spring-cleaning nearing, Horowitz answers questions about Got Clutter, and provides tips on how to organize your home.

Q: How did the business start? Did you imagine it would grow so much?

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

A: Definitely not. It fell in my lap. It started with my husband being in the stock market, and after the market crashed, I thought that I should get a job. I was always organized. It’s a funny thing; I had a friend that would make fun of me with how organized and lined up my house was. One person asked me to organize their pantry, and then, it grew naturally.

I never thought I would still be doing this 18 years later. It was trying to help with the family income — we were always busy with having five kids. But the company just slowly, naturally grew.

Q: What makes Got Clutter unique?

A: Got Clutter is me and my daughter. I have other employees who come when we have big jobs, but 90 percent of the time, it’s the two of us. Most of the time, the clients do want me to physically be there. My daughter is like my clone — she does everything exactly like I do. I might go to one job, and she goes to the other; we split up. I know there’s other organizers out there, but we do things the way we do them. We really do things our way, and we don’t try to copy anybody. I try to do things differently because each house is unique.

One thing I’ve learned over the years is how to deal with all different kinds of personalities. Decluttering itself, too, is almost like therapy. A lot of the time, the clutter is consuming these houses, and people don’t know what to do with it.

For most people, something like this might be a luxury, but to some people, it’s not. It’s a necessity. It’s really helping with their daily lives.

Q: How was 2024 for Got Clutter? What are you looking forward to in 2025?

A: 2024 was a great year, thank goodness. We’ve been busy every year.

We average around 40 to 45 moves a year. We already have bookings for January, February, and March. We had a few requests for more jobs out of New York, so in 2025, I’m looking forward to traveling to other states and more travel in general. We’ll actually be traveling to the Caribbean to do some organizing out there.

Got Clutter’s Top 10 Tips For Organizing Your Home Whether your New Year’s Resolution is to declutter your life, or you want to get a jump start on your spring cleaning, Got Clutter has the perfect guide for you to get started…

• Keep what you use and love • Don’t keep things just because you spent money on them — you’re not getting the money back • Put things away right away • If it’s damaged, get rid of it • If you’re going to store it away forever,

you don’t need it • Do a clean out every season • Just because it’s on sale doesn’t mean that you need to buy it • Just because it’s free, doesn’t mean that you need to take it • Give everything a home so that you know where to put it back • Ask yourself: If you were to move today, would you take those items with you?

For more information, visit @gotclutter on Instagram.

MonmouthCommunity.com JANUARY 2025

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PARENT'S CORNER

Playing it Safe Preventing Childhood Sports Injuries

BY MAIA FRANCO

M

ore than 3.5 million children ages 14 and younger suffer from a sports-related injury each year. It's important for parents, coaches, and young athletes to recognize the signs of injury early to prevent longterm damage. Here are some common types of injuries and what to look out for: Acute Injuries Acute injuries happen suddenly, often as a result of a fall, collision, or improper movement.

Sprains and Strains: • Sprain: Injury to a ligament, such as an ankle sprain.

• Strain: Injury to a muscle or tendon, such as a hamstring strain.

• Signs to watch for: Pain, swelling, bruising, and limited range of motion Fractures: • Common in contact sports, especially when bones are subjected to direct impact.

• Signs: Immediate pain, swelling, deformity, and inability to use the limb Dislocations: • Often occurs in the shoulder, elbow, or fingers.

• Signs: Visible deformity, intense pain, and limited movement Concussions: • A head injury caused by a blow or jolt to the head.

• Signs: Headache, dizziness, confusion, memory loss, nausea, sensitivity to light or noise, and changes in behavior.

Prevention Methods: • Proper Technique: Learning proper techniques for throwing, jumping, running, and other sports movements can significantly reduce injury risk.

• Equipment: Wearing properly fitted and sport-specific equipment (shoes,

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helmets, pads, etc.) can help prevent injuries, especially in contact sports.

• Hydration and Nutrition: Proper hydration and a balanced diet support muscle and bone health, reducing the likelihood of injuries.

Overuse Injuries Overuse injuries are caused by repetitive stress on a part of the body without adequate rest. These are becoming more common as young athletes specialize in a single sport.

Little League Elbow and Little League Shoulder: • Overuse injuries typically seen in young baseball players due to repetitive throwing motions.

• Signs: Pain on the inside of the elbow or shoulder, decreased range of motion, and tenderness.

Stress Fractures: • Common in high-impact sports, particularly in sports like running, gymnastics, and basketball.

• Signs: Gradual onset of pain that worsens with activity, tenderness over the affected bone, and swelling.

Tendinitis: • Inflammation of a tendon, such as the Achilles tendon in runners or the patellar tendon in athletes who jump frequently • Signs: Pain, swelling, and stiffness in the tendon, which worsens with activity and improves with rest Prevention and What to Look Out For: • Proper Warm-up and Cool-down: Ensuring athletes warm up before and cool down after activities helps prevent muscle strains and ligament injuries.

• Rest and Recovery: Overuse injuries often stem from not giving the body enough time to rest. Avoiding exces-

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

sive training, cross-training in different sports, and ensuring regular rest days can reduce the risk of overuse injuries.

Signs of Overuse: • Persistent pain that doesn’t improve with rest.

• Swelling or bruising that doesn’t go away.

• Decreased performance or reluctance to participate in the sport.

• Limping, stiffness, or discomfort in a joint or muscle.

Growth Plate Injuries Children and adolescents have growth plates, areas where their bones are still growing. These are vulnerable to injury, especially during intense physical activity.

Signs to watch for: • Pain near a joint or bone (especially in the wrists, knees, or elbows).

• Swelling and tenderness in a localized area.

When to Seek Medical Attention: • Immediate, severe pain that doesn’t improve • Signs of a concussion, such as confusion, nausea, and dizziness • Swelling or bruising that doesn’t subside with rest • Difficulty moving or using a limb • Visible deformity To keep young athletes safe and healthy, it’s essential to encourage safe play practices, monitor for signs of overuse, and ensure that they receive appropriate medical care when needed. Proper training, rest, and awareness of potential injuries are key to maintaining a child’s long-term health in sports.

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Kick off the New Year with Positive Training for a Well-Behaved Dog

Four-legged fun!

Barktastic places to hang out with your pets this month and beyond Smokey’s Doggy Café, Keyport — OK this place is truly for the dogs! Smokey’s Doggy Café offers dogs a fabulous place to hang with their humans and features an all-natural treat bar, Puppaccinos, Pawgaritas, Barkuterie boards, dog ice cream as well as a play yard! Humans are welcome to BYO food and drinks or have the option to order delivery from local restaurants. Smokey’s Doggy Café is located at 30 West Front Street in Keyport. SmokeysDoggyCafe.com.

The Hungry Puppy, Farmingdale — The Hungry Puppy may be a pet supply store first and foremost, but they also offer lots of fun events for your et throughout the year. But one of our favorite things is their on-site free dog park, a great place to bring your dog to get those zoomies out in a fun and fenced environment. The park features two separate play areas as well as dog playground equipment for extra waggy tails! The Hungry Puppy is located at 1288 Highway 33 in Farmingdale. The HungryPuppy.com.

Convention Hall, Asbury Park — A great option for a chilly day, dogs are welcome inside the Grand Arcade at Convention Hall in Asbury Park, where you and your pup can peruse the shops, check out the Springsteen Archives pop-up shop and maybe even pick up a few treats at Paws Barkery & Boutique.

Cookman Avenue, Asbury Park — Winter is always a tough time for outings with your doggo, as much of the outdoor dining and fun warm weather activities are no longer available. But Asbury Park manages to be a particularly dog-friendly destination, with many of the stores on Cookman Avenue welcoming well-behaved four-legged friends. Go for a winter stroll through Kennedy Park and if you find yourself getting chilly, just head inside one of the dog-friendly shops, such as Rebel Supply Co., Foolish Ginger, or stop in and pick up a doggie cupcake at Confections of a Rockstar. Pets are even allowed inside Asbury Park Brewery and the Shoppes at the Arcade, which offers multiple fun stores for you and your canine companion to poke around in.

The Jersey Shore Premium Outlets, Tinton Falls — With the holiday shopping madness in the rear-view mirror, January is an excellent time to take in a more relaxing trip to the mall. But that usually means leaving your pets at home.

But that’s not the case at the Jersey Shore Premium Outlets!

Since the area is outdoors, dogs are welcome in all of the outdoor spaces, many of which are covered from rain. While the stores themselves may only allow service animals, it’s a great spot to go with the whole family. Let Mom run into one store while Dad and the kids hang with the hound. They even have a Starbucks onsite for extra good dogs to get their Pup Cups!

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our dog is more than just a pet—they’re a cherished member of your family. But sometimes, miscommunications and behavioral challenges can strain even the strongest bond. The solution? Professional dog training! It’s an investment in your dog’s happiness, your peace of mind, and your relationship together. Here’s why dog training is a game-changer for both you and your furry friend – and with the New Year upon us, a perfect time for a fresh start!

1. Enhanced Communication — Dogs thrive when they understand what’s expected of them, and training provides the tools for clear communication. By learning commands and responding to cues, your dog becomes more confident, and you’ll enjoy a stronger bond rooted in trust and understanding.

2. A Well-Behaved Companion — Imagine a dog that greets guests calmly, walks politely on a leash, and listens even in distracting environments. Proper training transforms good dogs into great companions, making everyday activities—from strolls in the park to family gatherings—more enjoyable for everyone.

3. Safety First — Training is about more than good manners; it’s about keeping your dog safe. Teaching commands like “stay,” “come,” and “leave it” can prevent accidents and keep your dog out of harm’s way, whether it’s avoiding traffic or steering clear of harmful substances.

4. Reduce Problem Behaviors — From excessive barking and chewing to leash pulling and aggression, training helps address and correct these behaviors. Certified trainers work with you to understand your dog’s unique needs and create tailored solutions that work in your home environment.

5. A Happy, Stimulated Dog — Dogs love to learn! Training engages their minds, satisfies their need for mental stimulation, and reduces boredom-related behaviors. An active, engaged dog is a happy dog, and a happy dog makes for a happy owner.

6. Socialization Skills — Well-trained dogs are more confident in social settings. Whether you’re at the dog park or hosting friends, training ensures your dog knows how to behave, interact, and stay calm around people and other pets.

7. Strengthened Bond — Dog training is a team effort, and it deepens your connection. Working together toward shared goals fosters mutual respect and enhances the relationship between you and your furry companion.

Investing in professional dog training isn’t just about teaching tricks—it’s about building a life full of joy, trust, and harmony with your pet. Whether you’re dealing with puppy basics or more complex behavioral issues, the benefits of training are undeniable.

Ready to experience the transformation? Let’s get started today and unlock the full potential of your four-legged friend.

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MonmouthCommunity.com JANUARY 2025

41

Home Sweet Holmdel Holmdel Mayor Impreveduto looks forward to the future of the town he loves

BY EMMA SYLVIA

A

s 2024 came to a close, I had a chance to chat with Holmdel Mayor Rocco Impreveduto to recap some of the highlights of last year and what residents and visitors have to look forward to in the New Year. As someone who grew up in town and has family roots deep in the community’s leadership, you could say Impreveduto’s enthusiasm for Holmdel is without question.

“I graduated from Holmdel High School in 1995, and I moved back here 12 years ago,” Impreveduto notes. “I have three kids — a senior, freshman and eighth grader. I’ve been on the township committee now for three years and was selected this past year to serve another term.”

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

With Mayor Impreveduto’s father also previously serving as mayor, they are the only father-son duo in Holmdel’s mayoral history. With plenty of time and history in Holmdel, Impreveduto explains the appeal of his town: “We anchor three tenants, which are based upon why people move to Holmdel. One — we keep our taxes low. Two — we support our school district. And Three — we preserve as much open space as possible.”

2024 was a crucial year for achieving and sustaining each of these tenants. Holmdel kept their tax rate flat and introduced their Stay at Holmdel Address, which was “a whole strategic overview, not only for revenues and budget, but also what [the

town’s] approach would be to spending for the year.” Impreveduto lauds this address, saying: “That was a first for us — it was extreme transparency. People want to understand where their money is being spent, and how and why.”

In order to support the school district, the town absorbed the cost of school security, as well as contributing thousands of dollars to put lights on the new turf field. These two endeavors cost nearly half a million dollars, all operating expenses that go back to the students.

In terms of preserving Holmdel’s history — as well as its open space — 35 acres atop Crawfield Field have been preserved in order to build a park around the Holmdel Horn Antenna. A piece of Americana, the Holmdel Horn Antenna is a device that astronomers Robert Wilson — a Holmdel resident — and Arno Penzias utilized 60 years ago to discover cosmic background radiation, winning them both the Nobel Prize for Physics. Impreveduto says, “We committed to naming the park after Dr. Robert Wilson, and we’ll honor Dr. Penzias as well. We preserved Holmdel history, and, you could argue, world history.”

Alongside this advent, the town also purchased 11 acres on Middletown Road to keep as a farm. Holmdel’s goal is to prevent needless development, preserve nature and have a positive impact on the environment.

Another infrastructure that the town is investing in is the land where Vonage’s former headquarters once stood. “The owner wants to put in a Continue Care retirement community,” Impreveduto explains.

“The benefits to the town are obviously revenues coming in, but also low impact infrastructure, no impact to the schools, and low impact on the first responders.” Green space in the property will be increased by about 20 percent. “We try to keep things as aesthetically pleasing as possible,” he says.

The Vonage property is a particularly large piece of land that Impreveduto is glad to see repurposed in order to benefit the community, especially Holmdel’s seniors.

Other improvements to residents’ daily lives include five new pickleball courts, as well as volleyball, basketball and tennis courts.

Additionally, Impreveduto says, “With the help of Senator O’Scanlon, we received a state grant to improve conditions on Crawfords Corner Road, to widen the road and ease congestion.” With this road being in the heart of Holmdel, the mayor is ecstatic to improve traffic conditions for residents and business owners alike.

In 2025, Holmdel will be continuing some of their staple events. “We brought back Harvest Fest this year; that’ll come back again. The Christmas Tree and Menorah Lighting, Memorial and Veterans Day ceremonies. We do Trick-or-Treat at Bayonet Farm, and there’s a Howl-o-Ween costume contest. Our recreation team, too, is amazing; they do a ton of stuff for the seniors.”

Some of the hidden gems of Holmdel happen to be its historical landmarks. “The unsung part of Holmdel is how many landmarks we have in town. Many Monmouth County and New Jersey residents are aware of the famous PNC Bank Arts Center, an amphitheater home to many [events] across the year, from summer concerts to a Christmas lights drive. There’s the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial and Museum, which ensures the enduring legacy of American soldiers — the first museum of its kind in the United States. There also Bell Works, a unique destination that allows residents to connect in a center full of advancing technology, as well as dining, fitness, retail and more.

For a smallish town, we have quite a bit to see. When you look at

Holmdel, you see how we bridge our history with our reputation for education and innovation. You go from living history at Long Street Farm, to the Holmdel Hornet Antenna –which speaks to world-changing innovation and knowledge, to Bell Works, which is a landmark in and of itself.”

Mayor Impreveduto is looking forward to continuing the great traditions within the community that Holmdel has established during its existence.

“We are an exceptional town with a ton to offer for anyone that wants to visit or move here. Everything we’re doing here is to preserve and amplify the reasons people move to our town to begin with, and what makes our town great. We’re on a great path. We’ve got a great future ahead of us and we are making sure to preserve the culture here as best as possible.”

MonmouthCommunity.com JANUARY 2025

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FIRST RESPONDERS

Q&A

Q: What initially made you want to be a first responder?

A: I always wanted to be a firefighter, and decided at the age of 45, it was now or never. I just turned 60 and I never want to stop doing this. I like giving back to the community and felt this was the best way for me to do so.

Q: What do you find to be most rewarding about this kind of work?

A: When someone is having what could possibly be their worst day ever, we’re there to make things right and literally and figuratively ‘come to the rescue’ Q: What is the hardest aspect of the job?

A: The constant training that is required so that we can provide the residents with a first-class, well-equipped and well-trained fire department.

Q: Do any aspects of the job ever scare you?

A: No, never. I have a healthy respect for the job and recognize the dangers inherent in it, but I rely on my training to keep fear at bay.

Name: Kevin Keane Title: Volunteer Firefighter Place of Employment: Freehold Township Town of Residency: Freehold Township

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

Q: What was your most memorable experience on the job so far?

A: Probably our annual Santa Run. We bring Santa Claus around town on the truck and the kids come out of their homes to greet him and take pictures. I also have a thing for dogs. I love dogs and I always make sure the rigs are stocked with dog treats, so our fourlegged friends are taken care of.

Bell Works Tower to Go Pink for Team Vienna in Honor of 10th Heavenly Birthday

I

n 2017, healthy Vienna Carly Savino tragically died at 2.8 years of age. She fell asleep while watching TV at home in Holmdel, NJ and never woke up again. Her death was categorized as Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC), which is SIDS Part 2, but in kids 1 – 18 years old. As a result, Dr. Denise Wunderler, DO, FAOASM, Vienna’s mother, founded 501(c)(3) non-profit Team Vienna 4 SUDC Awareness. She, her family, and Team Vienna work hard to remember Vienna in unique ways, while raising funds for research and educating the world about SUDC, a virtually unknown entity in the medical community.

Bell Works in Holmdel will continue to support Team Vienna, by lighting their iconic 60 foot tower pink — Vienna’s favorite color— on Friday, January 17, for her 10th heavenly birthday. This will be the fifth consecutive year that the famous structure will be lit for the inspiring toddler, and Vienna’s actual birthday of January 19 will also mark 6 years Team Vienna is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

In addition, Vienna’s family and an award-winning film crew out of NJ and NYC have completed an independent, short documentary film about Vienna. They are hoping it will be accepted in the Garden State Film Festival in March 2025. Wunderler said, “We are very grateful for the generous support and caring heart of Carol Stillwell and Stillwell-Hansen in making our dream of creating a film, a reality”.

“We miss Vienna so much and can’t believe this will be another birthday we will celebrate without her. Child loss is a devastating journey that continues for life. We are thankful for all the support and love shown to us by the community,” Wunderler said.

For more information or to donate to Team Vienna/Robert’s Program, please visit: https://vienna.team/

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Colts Neck Seniors Head to PA

O

n Nov. 19, several of the Colts Neck Senior Citizens club members boarded the bus for a twoday trip to Lancaster, PA. Upon arrival, they enjoyed a buffet lunch at the Shady Maple Smorgasbord and then went to Sights & Sounds Millennium Theater for a magnificent performance of “Daniel”. Next stop was the Fulton Steamboat Inn, where they had a family-style dinner and spent the night. Breakfast was at the Inn’s Huckleberry Restaurant, followed by a performance of “Joy to the World” at the American Music Theater. Before departing for home, they had a wonderful meal at the Joseph Ambler Inn, which is famous for its delicious contemporary American cuisine.

If you are interested in such enjoyable events and are a Colts Neck resident, 55 or older, call President, Ed Piotrowski at 732-946-3474 for more information.

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

Student Successes

A spotlight on the milestones and achievements of young people in Monmouth County

of Red Bank | Est. 1968

MODELING & PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT Winter Sessions

Editor’s note: Welcome to the first edition of our brand-new Student Successes column in Community Magazine! Each month we will be printing a roundup of the crowning achievements of local students from around Monmouth County. We will shine the spotlight on a variety of accomplishments, including academic based milestones, college acceptances, post-grad achievements, artistic endeavors, sports-related highlights and goals and all points in between. Know a standout student that has done something extraordinary? Tell us about it! Submissions can be sent to Emma@ communitymagazinenj.com The University at Albany — SUNY has accepted Kevin Jordan of Matawan, who intends on majoring in Electrical and Computer Engineering; as well as Olivia Franco of Middletown, who intends on majoring in Childhood Education.

They are two of the 5,430 students that were accepted as Great Danes this fall.

The University at Albany is one of the nation’s leaders in educational equity. A diverse institution that spawns bright leaders and launches great careers, UAlbany offers many fields and opportunities for its incoming students and postgraduate Great Danes.

Samuel Fung of Manapalan has become a CPR-certified member of Manalapan’s Teen CERT (Community Emergency Response Team). He also is a Department Volunteer Supervisor at Monmouth Fidelity Chinese School in Marlboro.

Fung is a senior at Freehold Township High School, taking several AP and Honors Classes.

Outside of class, Fung is an Eagle Scout, enhancing the landscaping of Oakley Farm for his Eagle Scout Project.

Gabriella Sorrentino, a class of ’21 alumni of Trinity Hall in Tinton Falls, has been selected as a recipient of the 2025 Rhodes Scholarship. Only 32 students from across the nation are selected for this honor, which provides full funding for postgrad studies at the University of Oxford in England. Sorrentino, a senior at West Point, was one of the few that made the cut. An outstanding student at both West Point and Trinity Hall, Sorrentino is a dual major in philosophy and American history. At Trinity Hall, Sorrentino was a varsity athlete across several sports, a contributor to the school’s newspaper, leader of the chess and speech and debate clubs, and winner of the Poetry Out Loud Competition.

Trinity Hall Head of School Theresa Kiernan stated, “Trinity Hall proudly congratulates Gabriella Sorrentino on being named a Rhodes Scholar. Gabriella’s accomplishment is a testament to the core values of leadership, respect, perseverance and faith that are at the heart of a Trinity Hall education. Her dedication to service and unwavering commitment to excellence inspire our entire community. Congratulations, Gabriella, on this incredible honor!”

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Compass RE is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions.

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Ring the Dinner Bell

Mabel opens as the first sit-down restaurant experience at Bell Works

BY BILL CLARK

L

aura Brahn and Grace Crossman just couldn’t keep their excitement contained this past summer. The business partners behind the popular Asbury Park restaurant Cardinal Provisions were ready to open their new venture, Mabel at Bell Works in Holmdel.

Only trouble? Mabel — which is notable as being the first full service sit-down restaurant at Bell Works — was still months from being ready to fully open for business.

Though the interior was still under construction, the summer sun and warm air was perfect for the patio that they had set up outside, which meant excited diners hungry for a sneak preview could experience a hint of the menu that was to come, along with some adventurous cocktails.

Brahn referred to it as “ripping the band aid off.” It was important that they got their name out around their new home, and the outdoor set up was perfect for the traffic that came in and out of Bell Works.

Every member of the team came together during that time. Food was prepped at Cardinal Provisions and brought in for customers. Wine and other mixological creations were served up and Brahn and Crossman started to push through the difficulties of operating one restaurant while doing everything they could to make sure the new business took off as smoothly as possible. They weren’t going to let a perfectly good outdoor space go to waste as they formed and molded the inside to perfection.

The patio sneak peek concept held Brahn and Crossman over until the indoor seating had a proper opening in November, where people were able to pull up a chair and enjoy the dining

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room with its classic, comfortable and elegant style. Perhaps the most comforting feature is the shelving that holds books, records, plants and figurines that anyone could mistake for the contented nature of their own dining room.

The two had utilized every inch of their space for Cardinal on Bangs Avenue in Asbury Park. The spot caters to the breakfast, brunch and lunch crowd. Once in a while they would open for dinner, but the logistics were difficult with the limited kitchen space. With only four burners to use, it’s not easy to scale up a downtown business that just didn’t have the room to expand.

“We’ve maxed out the space to the gills,” Brahn said during a few minutes of downtime. She had just finished family dinner for her staff and was preparing for a Thursday service where she and Crossman would be managing and participating in the controlled chaos of a professional kitchen.

Bell Works offered space, parking and a kitchen fit for a crew that produces shellfish, pastas, and an eclectic mix of entrees.

“This was a way for us to have more space to do more things, be creative and have fun in a big playground,” she said.

The duo wanted to create a worldly menu that wouldn’t be boxed into any one specific category of cuisine. If there was a dish that spoke to them, it had the chance to be featured.

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

“We kind of like to do what we want, but this way it’s the best part of the cuisines we know how to make really well,” Brahn said. “French, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, and beyond. It’s food that lends itself to drinking and creates a great atmosphere.”

The partners also keep a straightforward ethos: simple food, full of flavor. The seasons dictate what makes up the menu, but each time a person visits Mabel they can expect to have a perfect dish, whether they are looking for meat, fish or pasta.

“We try to fill all of those slots while still honoring our style and how we like to cook,” Brahn said. “Just real food done well with real ingredients that taste really good.”

Crafting the feel of the restaurant meant working with what was already in the space and building around it to form an environment that best suited Brahn and Crossman’s vision.

“We have a beautiful, handmade mural, and lots of natural elements like woods and stones to soften it up and

make it a little more natural and cozy.” she said.

Both wanted to feminize the space, perfect for a restaurant that is owned by two women and an appropriate foil for the rigidity that comes with the history of the building (Bell Works was originally a research laboratory, and despite being reimagined as a fabulous shopping and entertainment mecca, portions of it maintain a somewhat sterile visual tone). Mabel helps shed the sense that visitors are walking into the harsh, unforgiving building seen in the hit AppleTV show “Severance” which uses the building as a setting.

The name even connects to their new home, honoring Alexander Graham Bell’s wife, Mabel. Mabel was an avid outdoorswoman and gardener and, according to Brahn, often gets overlooked in the story of the man who invented the telephone, as much of his interest in communications stemmed from his wife’s inability to hear.

“We thought it made sense because, as female chefs, we’re often overlooked

or breezed over,” Brahn said. “Our industry is not the kindest to women in the kitchen. So, we thought she was an interesting part of his story.”

The fact that both Crossman and Brahn are mothers adds to the sense of family and comfort that Mabel brings.

Brahn referred to Bell Works as multigenerational as it houses a school among the businesses.

“We’re definitely passionate about having a space that welcomes families,” Brahn said.

Despite the bar, Brahn said that Mabel is a family friendly atmosphere where parents and children can enjoy time together. Both have families of their own and spend as much time with each other as they do with anyone else in their lives.

Their connection goes back to childhood. Both went to Spring Lake Heights Elementary and Manasquan High School, each majored in Literature and spent time living in Brooklyn.

But they didn’t meet until their time working at the trendy pizzeria/nightlife

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hotspot Porta in Asbury Park.

Brahn welcomed the chance to work at Porta after not being content with a sedentary lifestyle. She wanted to both be active with her body and her artistry. The kitchen seemed a perfect combination of both.

That creativity she craved could become a physical manifestation, while the boundless energy she felt wasn’t being used to its fullest extent could find an outlet.

Though titles like “chef” and “partner” have heirs of importance to them, there seems to be no sense of egotism with the owners, as they rotate through the different stations of the kitchen, full participants in the process they care so deeply about. It gives them a chance to control the quality they take such pride in, while assuring things are running smoothly. During the rush, Brahn or Crossman may take the lead, calling out orders and keeping the operation moving. Being so early in the journey, Brahn knows that there’s always room

54

for improvement.

“We’re constantly tweaking things and tasting things and working on how things are and what they look like and how they can be better,” she said.

But they can’t do it all by themselves. Those that work within the restaurant are chosen because they are capable, but they also have an even

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

more important quality.

“We have a lot of trusted people who we can really lean into and do a great job,” Brahn said.

The current menu has options for the conventional as well as the curious.

Brahn recommends the oysters, a personal favorite of hers, and certainly the scarpariello wings.

“It’s our play on a buffalo wing, but it’s with a sauce that’s of the classic Italian-American chicken scarpariello,” she said.

“It’s got bell pepper, cherry pepper, hot Italian sausage, rosemary, and white wine in it, but it reads like a buffalo sauce.”

Brahn also toted the house made pastas as well with their rich, flavorful sauces.

The restaurateur hopes that Mabel gains traction so that in the future patrons can expect dynamic, creative meals. But she desires a much simpler sign of success.

“At the end of the day, we are here because we like to see people have a good time,” she said. “We just want everyone to feel good. This is a people pleaser’s paradise.”

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T

Holmdel High School Football 2024 — A Season to Remember

he 2024 Holmdel High School football season marked an exciting chapter for the Hornets under the leadership of first-year head coach Noel Kavanagh. Building on the program’s reputation for strong defense and physicality, Kavanagh introduced a more dynamic offensive style, elevating the team’s performance on the field. Most notably, Holmdel achieved back-to-back division championships, marking the first time in program history this feat has been accomplished.

A New Offensive Era Junior quarterback Jack Cannon emerged as a standout leader for the Hornets, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities. Cannon’s arm strength and field vision allowed Holmdel to transition from its traditionally run-heavy approach to a balanced attack. Wide receiver Frankie Serini and running back Matt Iulo were instrumental in the offensive success. Serini’s athleticism and ability to stretch the field complemented Cannon’s passing game, while Iulo powered through opposing defenses with his physical running style, often bulldozing defenders and fighting for extra yards. His strength and durability made him a crucial piece of Holmdel’s offense, helping them control the tempo in tight games.

Cannon’s versatility earned him recognition as one of the top quarterbacks in the Shore Conference, and his chemistry with Serini delivered several highlight-worthy plays. The offense proved capable of adapting, alternating between pounding ground drives and explosive passing plays.

Defensive Dominance Holmdel’s defense continued its tradition of excellence, despite starting the year with seven new starters. State wrestling medalist Alex Reyes transitioned seamlessly to football, delivering critical tackles and contributing to a defense that remained one of the most formidable in the conference.

Senior Cipriano “Cip” Bodnar was a dominant force on the defensive line. Known for his grit and relentless energy in the trenches, Bodnar excelled at disrupting opposing offenses by generating pressure on quarterbacks and shutting down the run.

His physicality and ability to control the line of scrimmage made him one of the most impactful players on Holmdel’s defense.

Bodnar’s high motor and leadership set the tone for the rest of the unit, inspiring teammates to rise to his level of intensity.

Sophomore Mike Todisco made key contributions on both offense and defense, stepping up in important moments and playing with relentless energy. His ability to make impactful plays throughout the season highlighted his potential as a critical player for the program’s future.

The Hornets opened the season with a thrilling victory over Long Branch and built momentum with a six-game winning streak, showcasing their resilience and adaptability. Their post-

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

Photo from Holmdel Public Schools website.

season journey ended in the semifinals of the South Jersey Group 3 tournament with a loss to Mainland Regional, but their determination and growth left an indelible mark on the program.

Training and Preparation A significant part of the team’s success can be attributed to its rigorous preparation, both in and out of season. For several years, the Hornets have trained with Iron House Performance Center. The program’s focus on strength, speed, and resiliency has elevated the athletes’ performance on the field, ensuring they were not only physically prepared but also mentally tough throughout the season. Additionally, the athletes’ commitment to offseason workouts and their relentless work ethic laid the foundation for their success this year.

Coach Kavanagh’s Impact Coach Kavanagh’s influence extended beyond game strategy. Players and fans praised his ability to maintain Holmdel’s hardworking culture while injecting fresh energy and tactical innovation. “We’ve got a big job to do to keep it [at this level],” Kavanagh said early in the season, highlighting his commitment to long-term success. His focus on preparation and fostering confidence in his players paid dividends throughout the year.

Looking Ahead The 2024 season set a strong foundation for the Hornets as they continue to develop their talent under Coach Kavanagh.

In addition to back-to-back division championships, the team’s growth in both depth and skill set a new standard for the program. While the team will miss key seniors like Bodnar, their leadership and contributions will leave a lasting legacy. With players like Cannon, Reyes, Iulo, and Todisco poised to return, Holmdel is well-positioned to build on this season’s achievements and remain a competitive force in the Shore Conference.

Holmdel’s journey in 2024 demonstrated the power of adaptability, teamwork, and leadership in achieving success, and the Hornets have much to look forward to in the seasons ahead.

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Teacher Feature

Name: Margaret Rispoli Title: Head Montessori Primary Teacher Place of Employment: Freehold Montessori School Town of Residency: Marlboro

Q: What do you love about teaching, and what keeps you coming back each day?

A: I specifically love teaching in a Montessori school because I get to remain with the same children for a three-year period. I guide them from ages three to six, and that allows me to really get to know them and their families well. When former students come back to visit five, 10, or 15 years later because they still remember their time here, it reminds me what a special bond we created together.

Q: What is the most challenging thing about working with kids?

A: Children in a Montessori class range from three to six years. Preparing the classroom environment with materials and activities that will serve the needs and requirements of each developmental, emotional, social, and academic level can be challenging. Guiding them during these crucial years is both challenging and rewarding.

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A: I attended schools in the Matawan school district from first grade through high school. I look back fondly at the whole experience. I enjoyed school, the teachers, and the friendships I made along the way. I’ve always felt you take away from an experience what you put into it, and I always wanted to do my best in my classes. As a result, I feel I received a quality education. I still enjoy reciting poems today that I memorized in my 8th grade reading class!

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A: When working with children, it’s important to follow the child. Teachers may have a plan for a particular lesson or activity, but we need to constantly monitor how that lesson is being received. If it’s not working, we need to be able to switch to Plan B and try another approach. We need to be flexible and not allow our ego to force us to continue on a path that is not working.

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

Newcomers and Neighbors Club Enjoys Holiday Celebration

O

n Thursday, December 5, the Newcomers and Neighbors Club of Colts Neck, Holmdel and surrounding areas kicked off the holiday season with a celebration at Eagle Oaks Country Club. Members and guests enjoyed a delicious lunch, entertainment and lovely gifts. The club provides a social network for women of all ages, as members participate in educational and social events, a myriad of activities and community service. For information on the club, contact newcomers.neighbors@gmail.com.

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A Spark of Light from the Darkness

Local author details inspirational battle with cancer in new memoir

BY RYAN LOUGHLIN

C

olts Neck resident Glen Dalakian is a leader in both his church and in his professional life as the Founder and CEO of CSAV Systems, a rising AV integration company, but perhaps his most inspiring work has come in the form of “Everything to Stand,” a new memoir he has written detailing his battle with cancer. We spoke with Dalakian recently to hear about his journey and life after diagnosis.

Community Magazine: Your book “Everything to Stand” focuses on your battle with an aggressive form of cancer. What made you want to share such a personal story with the world?

Glen Dalakian: There are things that I learned and blessings I received that people need to hear about. Hope can be hard to find when you’re hit with a devastating diagnosis, but there are reasons to be encouraged, even at the darkest hours.

CM: You have been involved in a variety of businesses, from dry cleaning to electronics. What made you start writing?

GD: I always enjoy telling a good story and have been asked again and again for tips on how I have been able to succeed in a variety of areas in my life. I was helped by people who mentored me directly and some through books they wrote. More than 10 years ago I started writing a busi-

ness column and sharing things I have learned in the hope that others might benefit. Over the years some of my most rewarding moments have been hearing from people about inspiration they may have received from my writing and so I continued.

CM: What is the most important advice you would give to someone who just received a similar cancer diagnosis?

GD: Pray, get and stay focused on healing and be diligent in finding a path that is most likely to lead you to remission. There is much more in the book I’ve been inspired to write.

CM: You obviously faced a myriad of treatments on your journey. Was writing this book a form of therapy in itself?

GD: Yes and No. I wrote this book after I had been given the great news of remission. But every cancer patient has much to contend with after remission and beyond.

Writing helped me to count my blessings and to have a positive perspective on the days ahead. Since I completed the book, I continue to be very aware of the changes in my body and the potential for what lies ahead. Scans, extensive blood work and exams with my oncologist every 4-5 months continue and are a regular reminder of my past and present condition. I look forward to the days when they are no longer needed.

CM: What is next for you? Any more books on the horizon?

GD: I have written a booklet called “The Greatest Prescription” that will be published soon. It can be kept in a pocket and be a constant encouragement to anyone struggling with serious illness. I also am well into another book that focuses on God’s key role and the miracles I witnessed in the battle for my life. I continue to write my monthly column “Business Matters” and look forward to doing my best to share hope and encouragement with as many people as possible. I hope people will follow my progress and benefit from everything I share at www.AuthorGlenJD.com

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