CM-Zone 1-0426DIGITAL

Check Out Our

HOME SERVICES & DESIGN GUIDE

Pantano

Outdoor Supply Spruces Up Your Home

PLUS: 5 Places to Donate for Spring Cleaning Local Hero — Christopher Trischitta Pet Celebs APRIL 2026 Colts Neck • Holmdel MonmouthCommunity.com APRIL 2026

1

BROCK FARMS — HOME & GARDEN WORLD —

Let us add some

COLOR

to your life...

NJ’S LARGEST SELECTION OF VARIETIES IN ALL THESE CATEGORIES

Annuals, Perennials, Vegetables, Herbs, Fruits, Tropicals, Houseplants, Trees and Shrubs

Stone Structures Tri-State’s Largest Selection

Koi & Pond Superstore Colts Neck Location Only

— We do not charge extra on credit card purchases — Open 7 Days a Week COLTS NECK LOCATION FREEHOLD LOCATION BrockFarms.com 375 Route 34 4189 Route 9 (732) 462-0900 (732) 462-2700

Pascale Coppola

Sales Associate C. 908.902.0404 Pascale@PascaleCoppola.com www.PascaleCoppola.com pascale.coppola

Ranked #1 in Colts Neck 2013, 2015-2016, 2019-2024 Ranked #5 in Monmouth County Ranked #9 in NJ Among 61,000 Agents Company-Wide Top Producer 2021-2024 NJR® Circle of Excellence Sales Award® 2014-2024

Visit my website

AVAILABLE

157 Route 520 • Marlboro • $4,325,000 OVER 26 ACRES

UNDER CONTRACT

6 Concord Court • Colts Neck • $2,075,000 5 Bedrooms • 4.5 Baths • 1.39 Acres • Quiet cul-de-sac

SOLD

SOLD

38 Main Street | Holmdel, NJ 07733 | o. 732.946.9200 .

39 Mountainside Drive • Colts Neck

3 Colts Gait Lane • Colts Neck 38 Main Street | Holmdel, NJ 07733 | o. 732.946.9200 MonmouthCommunity.com APRIL 2026

.

3

DID DID YOU YOU KNOW...

KNOW...

Saker Saker ShopRites ShopRites have have over over 4,000 4,000 Health Health && Wellness Wellness items items inin the the Nutrition Nutrition Center Center Aberdeen Aberdeen Bayville Bayville Belmar Belmar Bordentown Bordentown Bound BoundBrook Brook Branchburg Branchburg Brick BrickTwp Twp

East Hamilton Pennington Wall EastBrunswick Brunswick HamiltonMarketplace Marketplace Manahawkin Manahawkin Pennington WallTwp Twp East Hamilton Manchester Rt EastWindsor Windsor HamiltonSquare Square Manchester Rt37, 37,Toms TomsRiver River Waretown Waretown Edison Hazlet Marlboro Sayreville West Edison Hazlet MarlboroTwp Twp Sayreville WestLong LongBranch Branch Ewing Howell Middletown Shrewsbury Woodbridge Ewing Howell Middletown Shrewsbury Woodbridge Fischer Montgomery FischerBlvd, Blvd,Toms TomsRiver River Jackson Jackson MontgomeryTwp Twp Somerville Somerville Middletown Middletown Freehold Lacey Neptune South Freehold LaceyTwp Twp Neptune SouthBrunswick Brunswick Freehold Freehold Neptune Hadley Lawrenceville North HadleyCommons Commons Lawrenceville NorthBrunswick Brunswick South SouthPlainfield Plainfield Neptune

2170 2170Highway Highway35 35Holmdel HolmdelNJ NJ Ph: Ph:732-264-0256 732-264-0256dearbornmarket.com dearbornmarket.com Hours: Hours:Sunday Sunday--Saturday Saturday7am 7am-8pm -8pm

Easter & Spring Flowers Arriving Daily Dearborn DearbornMarket Marketisisaaspecialty specialtygrocery grocerymarket, market,garden gardencenter center&&farm, farm,owned owned&&operated operatedby bythe theSaker Saker family. family.Dearborn Dearbornstarted startedas asaaroadside roadsidefarm farmstand standin in1925 1925&&has hasgrown grownover overtime timeto toinclude includeaa5,000 5,000sq sqftft delicatessen, delicatessen,aagourmet gourmetcatering cateringkitchen, kitchen,aafresh freshin-store in-storeBakery, Bakery,an anold oldworld worldbutcher, butcher,&&an an11,000 11,000sq sqftft area areaof ofgreenhouses greenhouses&&garden gardencenter. center.

FEATURED PROPERTY

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY

396 Monmouth St., East Windsor Presented at $375,000

JUST LISTED

6 Lamb Lane, Manalapan • Presented at $2,950,000

128 Tulip Lane, Freehold Presented at $399,900

HOLMDEL OFFICE 38 MAIN STREET o. 732.946.9200

LEANNE LUCARELLI Sales Associate, ABR , PSA ®

M: 917.596.2772 E: leanne.lucarelli@sothebysrealty.com NJ REALTORS® Circle of Excellence Sales Award® 2011-2025 NJ REALTORS® Distinguised Sales Award® 2020

ELIZABETH ‘LIZ’ DRITSAS

Sales Associate, ABR®, PSA

M: 732.567.1610 E: elizabeth.dritsas@sothebysrealty.com SERVICING MY CLIENTS SINCE 2004 NJ REALTORS® Circle of Excellence Sales Award® 2021, 2022

Sotheby’s International Realty™ is a licensed trademark to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. An Equal Opportunity Company and Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

CONTENTS

27 37 Pantano Outdoor Supply Spruces Up Your Home

Local Hero Christopher Trischitta

10

5 Places to Donate for Spring Cleaning

16-23

Home Services & Design Guide

34

Health Corner

39

Pet Celebs

41-42 Around Town

44

Dinner and a Show

49

Calendar of Events

55

Biz Beat

SALES DIRECTOR AND GENERAL MANAGER ROSEANNE SOFIA ASSOCIATE EDITOR E M M A S Y LV I A OFFICE MANAGER PA M R O G E R S ACCOUNTS PAYABLE S H I R L E Y S T. C L A I R REPORTERS BILL CL ARK M AIA FRANCO WILLIAM GARDELL REBECC A KING DESIGN DIRECTOR DEBBIE MCKENNA PHOTOGRAPHERS ANDREI JACK A ME T S J O E LY P O W Y JOHN VITOLLO ANDRE A PHOX PUBLISHER AND OPERATOR D I R E C T C O M M U N I C AT I O N S & C O N S U LT I N G , L L C

Do you know someone extraordinary that lives in our community? Tell us about them and why you think they should be featured in Community Magazine.

No story is too big or small.

BE A PART OF CM

We accept pet photos, local event listings, fundraisers & more!

We are always looking for contributing writers. If interested, email info@communitymagazinenj.com

EMAIL US

info@communitymagazinenj.com

FOR OUR MEDIA KIT & RATES EMAIL advertising@communitymagazinenj.com

Community Magazine takes no responsibility for the content of any advertisement nor does it guarantee the accuracy, veracity or truthfulness of any statement made in any advertisement. Any and all liability for any claims resulting from the content of any advertisement published by Community Magazine is solely the responsibility of the advertiser. Community Magazine is owned and operated by Direct Communications & Consulting, LLC.

Community Magazine features profiles on our community and features various advertisers throughout the region. Our magazine features the incredible products and services of our advertisers. We are not a news publication and do not report news.

MonmouthCommunity.com 6

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

MADE IN NJ Servicing All of New Jersey LICENSE# 13VHO2549000

Measured & Installed in One Week!

Precision Touch Collection ALL STANDARD Starphire Ultra-Clear Glass

USA Made 1/2” Clarvista-Starphire Glass

Clarvista Permanent Non-Stain

Precision Touch Collection 250 lbs. per set capacity patented Italian made “soft close” hinges.

Custom Finish to Match Hardware

LARGE SELECTION OF INCLUDED HARDWARE

For a quick quote call (732) 389-8175 or visit us online at

PrecisionShowerDoors.com

Come Experience Our Designer Showroom located at 89 Highway 35 North in Eatontown, NJ (Opposite Lowe’s Home Center)

The Morro Castle Incident

A

BY WILLIAM GARDELL

sbury Park is best known for its beach, boardwalk, and music scene to most people here in New Jersey. However, the town became a tourist destination for a rather macabre reason in the late summer of 1934. The SS Morro Castle was a passenger liner on its way to New York from Havana, Cuba, when it suffered a devastating fire at sea just off the coast of Monmouth County in the early morning hours of September 8th, 1934. This incident is largely forgotten today, but at the time, the tragic fire on this crowded ship made national headlines.

Tourists specifically came to Asbury Park Beach to see the doomed vessel, which had run aground just offshore.

The summer season was extended into late September, with hotels still packed long after the end of the routine summer tourism season. The charred hulk of the once beautiful Morro Castle was still smoldering days after the fire had caused the ship to be abandoned, and 137 people tragically lost their lives.

The Morro Castle was a 508-foot luxury cruise liner owned by the Ward Line. Many wealthy Americans enjoyed going to Havana to gamble in casinos, which were legal there in the first half of the 20th century. At this time, Las Vegas and Atlantic City had not been built up for gambling tourism yet, so Havana was the place to go, being only 90 miles from Florida.

The ill-fated vessel was carrying some 316 passengers and 230 crew members under the command of Captain Robert Willmott. Mysteriously, during the previous night, Willmott was not feeling well and elected to take his dinner in his cabin rather than dine with the passengers as was customary for a captain to do. He was found dead in his room by the crew.

8

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

The ship’s doctor theorized that it was possibly a heart attack or stomach issue that led to the captain’s death.

Some would later claim that the captain was poisoned as part of a wider, nefarious scheme. Sadly, this would not be the only problem faced by the crew of the Morro Castle that day.

Every mariner’s worst nightmare, a fire at sea, would break out aboard the vessel. It is believed that the fire started in the ship’s library, of all places.

Stored paint added fuel to the fire, which spread rapidly throughout the ship. Some would theorize that there may have been multiple fires set at different locations throughout the boat.

This was compounded by a terrible storm in the area.

The ship’s radio operator, George Rogers, is suspected of having started the fires and possibly even murdered the captain using poison in order to maximize chaos. Rogers had a checkered past that included being around multiple known fires when they occurred. He later served time in jail for attempting to murder a police officer in Bayonne, NJ, using a fire-bomb, and then was convicted of murdering his 2 neighbors after getting involved in an investment scam.

Rogers died in prison in 1958. He gained some fame after the fire because he had stayed at his post and issued an SOS signal despite being burned by the fire. He was hailed as a hero and even went on a speaking tour regarding the incident. But he was soon accused of setting the fire and fell out of the public’s favor.

He was never convicted of starting the fire aboard the Morro Castle, but at times, he spoke about the incident and seemed to know more information regarding the fire than he should have had he not been responsible for it.

Laser Guided Navigation Sinus Procedure One of NJ’s first centers to own and utilize Brainlab’s infrared optical tracking device for pinpoint sinus surgery accuracy.

Are Your

SINUSES SUFFERING from:

1. More than two sinus infections per year?

2. Frequent trips to urgent care for endless antibiotics?

3. Chronic facial pressure and headaches?

4. Post nasal drip?

5. Runny nose?

6. Stuffy obstructed nose?

7. Chronic fatigue?

8. Snoring and or Sleep Apnea?

9. Allergy treatments not working?

10. Had balloon sinuplasty and it did not help?

If you answered yes to any of these questions we may be able to help with one of our many state-of-the-art surgical and non-surgical treatment solutions.

Frank J. Scaccia, MD FACS • Top Nasal Surgeon NJ Monthly Magazine 2026 • American Board of Otolaryngology (ENT) • American Board of Facial Plastic Surgery • Top NYC Metro Doctor 2006-2025 • In-office NJ state licensed accredited Ambulatory Surgery Center • Jack Anderson Prize award for highest score on the Facial Plastic Surgery board certifying exam

RIVERSIDE NASAL & SINUS CENTER

70 E. Front St., 3rd Floor Red Bank, NJ

732-747-5300 www.riversideface.com

ank J Scaccia, Accepts MD FACS most out of network insurance plans including

Horizon Blue Cross, Cigna, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare and others.

RIV E R SIDE Please call our office for details. We are here to help make your health insurance work for you.

ACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY & SINUS CENTER

Five Places

to Donate For Spring Cleaning

BY BILL CLARK

W

ith spring on its way, it’s time to open the windows and let in the fresh air. After being stuck inside through this frigid winter, people may be looking to refresh their outfits, furniture and other belongings. But bulk trash day and the town refuse center don’t need to be the first choices when it comes to parting with that threadbare sweater or worn-out couch. Here are several places in Monmouth County that will gladly take what you no longer need.

The Center Square Thrift Shop 800 Main St., Belmar The Center Thrift Shop supports the mission of The Center in Asbury Park, which connects “at-risk community members to comprehensive health care, safe and supportive housing, and wellness through education, collaboration and advocacy.” Reviewers frequently praise the shop’s selection of dress clothing, making it a great place to donate collared shirts, dresses and even furs. Visit their website at thecenterinap.org.

Goodwill Store and Donation Center 1 N. Mall Dr., Ocean, NJ “Our motto is donate to us what you would give to a friend,” the organization’s website reads. Clothes, fitness equipment and household supplies are all welcome at Goodwill. The Ocean location is open seven days a week and can help find a new home for linens, electronics and even medical equipment. Donors are encouraged to review the full list of accepted items at goodwillnj.com

Calico Cat Thrift Shop 96 Kings Highway, Middletown The thrift shop accepts games, linens, clothing and household goods, which are sold to support the organization’s mission. The shop does not accept electronics, baby equipment or books but can make good use of many other donated items. Visit their website at monmouthcog.org.

Monmouth County Habitat for Humanity ReStore 1105 Memorial Dr., Asbury Park The inventory at ReStore is constantly changing based on community donations. Appliances, furniture and certain building materials such as cabinets, doors and windows are welcome. ReStore can also arrange for larger furniture donations from your home.

New Legacy Books Various locations A robust library is a wonderful feature in any home, but books that no longer fit on an overstuffed shelf can find a second life through New Legacy Books. Donation bins are located throughout Monmouth County, including Eatontown, Freehold and Red Bank. Books with a clear ISBN number are accepted, including many older textbooks. For donation bin locations, visit newlegacybooks.com

10

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

119 East River Rd.

Rumson NJ

732.660.7848

TheLondonSpa.net

Gift Certificates Available

NOW Tightening sagging skin, fine lines OPEN & deep wrinkles on face and neck

MICRONEEDLING RADIO FREQUENCY SKIN TIGHTENING TREATMENT

20% OFF 1st Treatment Non-Surgical Facelift & Anti-Wrinkle Facial

Used by Jennifer Lopez, Jennifer Aniston, Kate Middleton and Many More

Diminishes SCARS & STRETCH MARKS

20% OFF

1st TREATMENT ONLY

Our New Boutique

With mention of ad.

Cannot be combined.

Expires 5/31/26.

20%

With mention of ad. Cannot be combined. Expires 5/31/26.

Introductory FREE

OFF

MICRODERMABRASION ($100.00 value) ADD-ON

to Intracecutical Hydration Facial or CACI Non-Surgical Facelift Facial

Anti-Cellulite Treatment

BEFORE

AFTER 3 SESSIONS

Firming | Inch Loss | Fat Deposit & Stretch Mark Reduction

$90!

With mention of ad. Cannot be combined. Expires 5/31/26.

With mention of ad. Cannot be combined. Expires 5/31/26.

ANTI-AGING MEDICAL TREATMENTS √ Proven to reduce signs of aging, stretch marks, wrinkles & cellulite √ Immediate visible results √ Quick & painless √ Great alternative to surgery

1st TREATMENT ONLY

AFTER 5 SESSIONS

First Treatment Only

After 7 treatments

$175

YOUR FIRST TREATMENT With mention of ad. Cannot be combined.

Expires 5/31/26.

EXPERIENCE THE ULTIMATE IN OUTDOOR LIVING

American Made Quality Structures for Outdoor Living A New Jersey Based, Family Owned & Operated Business

Pavilions • Pergolas • Gazebos • Pool Houses • Sun Rooms • Sheds • Garages

513 Route 36, Belford, NJ 07718 | 732.327.0160 | Residential and Commercial backyardstructuresnj.com

ROBERT DEFALCO REALTY YOUR NY - NJ CONNECTION

Offices in NYC, Brooklyn, Staten Island, Holmdel and Colts Neck

FOR SALE • PRICE UPON REQUEST 7 McCampbell Road, Holmdel NJ 5 Bedrooms • 6 Full Baths & 1 Half Bath • 8,322 SF Heated Pool • USTA Tennis Court • Multi-Generational Living Space

Lillian LoRusso

Institute for Better Living Specializing in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-drug treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain and treat a variety of conditions.

Broker Realtor Top Producer of the NJ Office E lorussolillian@gmail.com C 908.489.1005 O 732-845-3200

Deep TMS has been FDA-cleared in the USA and effectively treats: The Board of Elections approved redistricting maps for 2026 as indicated below.

DISTRICTS IN MONMOUTH COUNTY 2026 Aberdeen Township Allenhurst Borough Allentown Borough Asbury Park City Atlantic Highlands Borough Avon-by-the-Sea Borough Belmar Borough Bradley Beach Borough Brielle Borough Colts Neck Township Deal Borough Eatontown Borough Englishtown Borough Fair Haven Borough Farmingdale Borough Freehold Borough Freehold Township Hazlet Township Highlands Borough Holmdel Township Howell Township Interlaken Borough Keansburg Borough Keyport Borough Lake Como Borough Little Silver Borough Loch Arbour Village

15 1 2 9 4 2 5 4 4 8 1 9 2 4 1 7 28 17 4 10 38 1 6 6 1 5 1

Long Branch City Manalapan Township Manasquan Borough Marlboro Township Matawan Borough Middletown Township Millstone Township Monmouth Beach Borough Neptune City Borough Neptune Township Ocean Township Oceanport Borough Red Bank Borough Roosevelt Borough Rumson Borough Sea Bright Borough Sea Girt Borough Shrewsbury Borough Shrewsbury Township Spring Lake Borough Spring Lake Heights Borough Tinton Falls Borough Union Beach Borough Upper Freehold Township Wall Township West Long Branch Borough

17 31 4 34 7 52 7 2 4 20 19 5 9 1 6 2 2 3 1 4 5 15 5 5 23 6

Monmouth County Board of Elections 300 Halls Mills Road • Freehold, NJ 07728

732-431-7802 x7150

• Depression • OCD • Smoking Addiction • Anxious Depression • Late-Life Depression We are also suboxone certified and specialize in reproductive psychiatry.

We treat psychiatric conditions including ADHD for adolescents 12 and up, adults and geriatric patients.

Now offering ADHD Testing

Licensed provider for NJ, NY, and PA for both telehealth and in-person visits

We accept major insurances including Medicare and Medicaid.

440 Route 34, Unit 1B Colts Neck, NJ

info@institutebetterliving.com

(646) 883-0734

www.institutebetterliving.com

MonmouthCommunity.com APRIL 2026

13

ES

BE

COLLEG ST 2025

Cougars Climb HIGHER At Kean University, you get the world-class education you need to climb higher in life. Explore your passions, gain real-world experience and build the knowledge and skills to succeed in your career and beyond. Your path to lifelong success starts at Kean.

R2

intercollegiate varsity sports teams

Institution

I

UNION

•

TOMS RIVER

university in NJ

30 MINS TO NYC

NCAA DIVISION III

HISPANIC-SERVING

AFFORDABLE

70+ graduate options 7 doctorates

Competitive

Designated

The most

undergraduate programs

Best College Campus in NJ by Niche.com

Research University

KEAN UNIVERSITY

50+

#1

A Proud

FREE TUITION for qualified NJ students

via train station on campus

•

LINCROFT

•

CHINA

kean.edu/ktp

•

ONLINE

I

kean.edu

214 BRIGHTON AVENUE, LONG BRANCH

LONG BRANCH

JUST LISTED

I’M SOLD

Luciana Dias Lourenco 201-966-1894 MIDDLETOWN

Robert Shirvanian 732-768-3546 OLD BRIDGE

April Brings New Opportunities!

Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply exploring your options, I’m here to help guide you every step of the way.

HomeValuesWithJanice.com

JUST LISTED

JUST LISTED

Stephanie Rizzo 732-687-7674

Mary-Jo Hart 732-241-6691 HOLMDEL

OAKLAND

Janice Troiano Broker Associate

732-306-6397

Search Listings JaniceT@EXITRealtyEC.com www.JaniceTroiano.REALTOR Facebook: @JaniceTroianoRealEstate Instagram: @Real_Estate_With_Jan ice

JUST LISTED

JUST LISTED

Roy Eisen 732-804-2443

Gerine A. Skamarak 908-902-4778

Ask Adrienne Adrienne Marcigliano 908-601-3766

28 ALPINE ROAD, HOLMDEL

127 HEULITT ROAD, COLTS NECK

RENTED

I’M SOLD

EXIT REALTY EAST COAST • 877-778-3948 • 57 E Main Street, Holmdel, NJ • EXITREALTYEASTCOAST.com

COM M U N I TY M A G A Z I N E

HOME SERVICES & DESIGN GUIDE Whether you’re planning a full home renovation, refreshing a single room, or seeking advice on design, materials, and project management, all of the experts you need are right here in Monmouth County.

This Home Services & Design Guide connects you with trusted professionals ready to bring your vision to life. Explore your options, connect with local experts, and take the next step toward creating your dream home.

Reach out today to begin transforming your space with confidence.

HOME SERVICE S & D E S IGN G U ID E

Renovation Without Hesitation When it comes to installing frameless shower enclosures, quality products and skilled technicians make all the difference

P

Expertise

urchasing a frameless shower enclosure is often the most expensive part of a bathroom renovation. For that reason, it is important to understand the differences among the many products on the market today. Tom Basile of Precision Shower Doors, an industry veteran with more than 40 years’ experience, offers advice and great tips to help you be an educated consumer.

Q) It seems everyone is selling frameless shower enclosures. Are they basically all the same?

A) Great question. The simple answer is no, frameless shower enclosures are not all the same. In fact, there is a great disparity between products.

Education is the key to getting value for your money. A frameless enclosure consists of glass and hardware, but quality can vary greatly. Hiring someone with the right experience and expertise in the measurement, manufacture, and installation is just as important as finding the right product.

Glass Durability

Clarvista® glass is patented specifically for shower enclosures. It is nonporous and will not stain. Clarvista® is permanent.

Less expensive glazing quality glass is porous, and once stained, it is permanently discolored and will always look dirty.

Caution! After-market coatings are mostly temporary and often sold with exorbitant markups. If you purchase the correct glass, you will have no need for costly add-ons.

Glass Clarity Fact: “Clear glass” is green, and depending on its origin, it can be very green. Starphire® ultra-clear glass

by Vitro Glass is the industry’s clearest choice. Unlike conventional clear glass, which gets darker and greener as it becomes thicker, the clarity of Starphire® glass actually intensifies with greater thickness. Because of its unparalleled clarity, Starphire® glass also offers exceptional color fidelity.

Glass Thickness

1/2” glass is the preferred thickness for structural stability. 3/8” glass is often used to compensate for low-capacity hinges, and is inferior. All factors being equal, the cost difference between the two is negligible, so 1/2” is recommended.

Hinges + Hardware

While most shower door hinges look similar, the true measure of a quality hinge is in its weight capacity and function. Soft closing hydraulic hinges with capacity of 250 pounds are the best in the industry, allowing for the widest doors (up to 40”).

The soft close feature prevents damage to the enclosure caused by slamming with low quality spring-loaded hinges.

Even the best materials will not compensate for poor craftsmanship. From accurate measurement to precise manufacture to final installation, each step is crucial to ensure your shower remodel will live up to your expectations for years to come.

It’s important to use a reputable, reliable company. Remember, after-sale service can and will be needed throughout the life of the product. A professional will stand behind the product and make themselves available for maintenance in a timely manner.

When possible, visit the vendor’s showroom and test the displays.

Ask questions. Demand answers.

Make sure all necessary costs are included in the quote — glass, hardware, installation, and removal of your existing shower door. Leave nothing to chance.

We hope these tips will help you make the most educated decision when purchasing your shower door. Be diligent about making an apples-to apples comparison, because false comparisons are useless. In the end, satisfaction is the only metric of the true cost and value of the product. Be more suspicious of a cheap price, as no one sells something for less than it is worth.

Basile welcomes all those seeking a quality frameless shower enclosure to call, email or visit Precision for the facts.

The team at Precision will answer your questions free of obligation, review and critique any competitors’ quotes and offer a free comparative quote. Whether you decide on a Precision manufactured product or not, you can do so with all the facts.

Story by Precision Shower Doors For more info, visit their showroom at 89 Rt. 35 N in Eatontown.

Call 732-389-8175, email Tom@precisionshowerdoors.com or go to PrecisionShowerDoors.com.

MonmouthCommunity.com APRIL 2026

17

HOME SERVICE S & D E S IGN G U ID E

I

Five Essential Tips Before Installing a Home Generator

n today’s world, storms are becoming more frequent and severe, leading to unexpected power outages that disrupt daily life. To safeguard your home and maintain comfort during these times, installing a reliable generator is becoming a necessity. Mike Chambers, a trusted local contractor since the 1980s and owner of Mike Chambers’ Oakhurst Electric (MCOE), advises five essential points to keep in mind when purchasing a generator.

Assess Your Power Needs.

Choosing the right generator starts with understanding your home’s electrical requirements. MCOE offers a free calculation of your electrical usage to determine whether it is more practical to purchase a smaller generator that supplies power to select essential circuits — such as your refrigerator, heater, and garage door opener — or a larger, full-house system capable of running everything in your home, including air conditioning. An additional cost decision is whether to add an automatic transfer switch to enable seamless startup during power outages. This assessment helps you balance equipment and labor costs wisely.

Secure Surveys and Permits While the property survey is the homeowner’s responsibility, Mike Chambers’ Oakhurst Electric’s experienced office staff will handle the application for permits and research your town’s specific requirements. These regulations vary by location and often impact both the timeline and total cost of your installation. Proper permitting ensures the generator installation meets all local codes and safety standards.

Choose Your Fuel Most residential generators run on natural gas or liquid propane. As part

18

of the installation preparation, MCOE will determine which fuel source is most readily available at your home and feasible to install near your desired generator location. Natural gas is connected directly to your home’s existing gas line, while propane will require a dedicated tank. We will help you evaluate the safest and most efficient option.

Consider Generator Placement Generators must be installed outdoors, away from windows and doors, and positioned on a sturdy concrete pad. Placement must consider proximity to existing electrical meters, gas lines, and other home features. Location requirements vary significantly by town and can become especially complex in communities governed by homeowners associations (HOAs). Working with a local, knowledgeable contractor like Mike Chambers’ Oakhurst Electric ensures this step is handled smoothly with safety, property value, and aesthetics in mind.

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

Plan for Cost and Maintenance Beyond the initial purchase and installation expenses, regular servicing is essential to keep your generator functioning reliably. Like a car, a generator requires routine maintenance, including oil and filter changes, to operate optimally. MCOE can service your generator twice a year to ensure reliable performance year-round.

Keeping these five critical points in mind and partnering with the experienced professionals at Mike Chambers’ Oakhurst Electric, you can confidently prepare your home for modern storm protection. Their comprehensive approach ensures that your generator installation is safe, efficient, and tailored to your needs, providing peace of mind and comfort when you need it most.

Mike Chambers’ Oakhurst Electric is located at 105 Union Ave. in Long Branch.

For more information call 732-229-9400, email service@mikechamberselectric.com, or visit their website at www.MikeChambersElectric.com

HOME SERVICE S & D E S IGN G U ID E

Comeback Kids

How to spruce up your garden with low-maintenance perennials

F

or gardeners seeking low-maintenance, resilient blooms that provide maximum beauty with minimal effort, perennials are the answer.

The key is in their name.

“Perennial” means “regularly repeating or renewing,” which is exactly the magic of these plants. Once planted, perennials will bloom, die, and bloom again for several seasons.

Brock Farms, an 80-yearold Monmouth County institution with locations in Colts Neck and Freehold, offers a huge selection of perennials that thrive in Monmouth County.

“While Brock Farms offers all the tried and true varieties, the main attraction is the number of new varieties we carry, as well,” said owner Eddie Brock, Jr., whose father founded the company.

“Our selection is incredible.”

Those “tried and true” include bright purple bee balm and varieties of catmint like Walker’s Low. “I look up every new variety,” said Brock. “We try them all out.”

The experienced team at Brocks Farms is also trained to know the soil, moisture, and sunlight conditions suited for each perennial. They help customers select the plants that will work best in their yard.

Looking to grow your perennial expertise? Here are four tips to ensure their success.

Choose Plants that Thrive in Our Area.

New Jersey has plenty of native perennials that can beautify your garden and benefit the state’s ecosystem. Plants are considered native when they occur naturally in a specific area, without human introduction.

Plants like vibrant orange butterfly weed, soft Joe-Pye weed, rich purple aster, tall great blue lobelia, and bright red

cardinal flower are all native perennials.

Along with sprucing up your garden, these plants provide pollen, seeds, and other environmental assets that support the birds, bees, and butterflies that live in our area.

Optimize Your Soil.

Though perennials are known for tolerating various soil conditions, optimizing your soil can help them thrive.

Perennials prefer well-drained, nutrient-rich soil, typically with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. (The pH of a soil describes how acidic or alkaline your soil is. A pH of 7.0 is considered neutral.)

According to Brock, incorporating various additives into your soil, such as guano, earthworm castings, and crushed shellfish, can take your garden to the next level.

If mixing organic materials and balancing acidity sounds too complicated for you, don’t worry. The staff at Brock Farms can help.

“We have a team that can tell you exactly what to do with your soil and how to do it,” Brock said.

Don’t Be Afraid to Cut Perennials Back.

Taking a pair of clippers to your plants may seem daunting, but Brock assures it’s one of the best ways to maximize perennial blooms.

“Once they’re done blooming, you can cut them back hard while it’s still spring or summer,” he explained. “You can get them to bloom several times in one season that way.”

Perennials will naturally bloom, die, and bloom again the following year. However, if you notice your flowers are starting to fade, you can cut them down early to get them to bloom a second or even third time in one season. Some perennials only require a bit of deadheading (snapping off the wilted flowers). Others can handle their stems being cut back to about two inches above the ground.

Shop for Perennials at Different Times Throughout the Season.

Most folks prefer their gardens to have something in bloom at all times during the spring and summer. The key to achieving this is choosing perennials that bloom at different times, so when one dies, another is reaching its peak.

Brock recommends shopping for your perennials at different times throughout the season. He is big on selling what’s in color that week. Head to Brock Farms at the beginning of the season, and you’ll see certain types of perennials in bloom to add to your garden. Come back each week and there will be an entirely new selection of plants to pick from.

“We turn our merchandise a lot, so there’s something new, fresh, and exciting every week,” said Brock.

Buying and planting perennials at different times will help ensure your garden is in bloom throughout the warmer months.

Brock Farms has two locations: 375 NJ-34, Colts Neck, and 4189 US-9, Freehold. Go to brockfarms.com for more information.

MonmouthCommunity.com APRIL 2026

19

HOME SERVICE S & D E S IGN G U ID E

Extending Your Home Beyond Its Walls How Amish American-Built Outdoor Structures Elevate Lifestyle and Property Value

F

or many homeowners, the backyard has become more than open space — it is an extension of the home itself. Thoughtfully designed outdoor structures can transform a property into a functional, beautiful retreat that enhances daily living while increasing long-term value.

At Backyard Structures, we work with homeowners who see their outdoor space as an opportunity. Whether it is an Amish pavilion overlooking a pool, a handcrafted pergola defining an outdoor dining area, or a detached studio designed as a private office or wellness space, each structure is tailored to complement the architecture of the home and the lifestyle of the family.

properly, a pavilion or pergola becomes a natural extension of the home’s footprint rather than an afterthought.

Creating Purposeful Outdoor Living Today’s homeowners are seeking defined outdoor “rooms.” A covered pavilion can anchor an outdoor kitchen and lounge area. A pergola can create shade while maintaining openness. An Amish shed can become a climate-controlled home office, art studio, fitness space, or guest retreat.

These Amish American-built structures allow families to entertain more comfortably, work more privately, and relax more intentionally — all while enjoying the outdoors.

Architectural Harmony Matters One of the most overlooked elements of adding a backyard structure is proportion and design integration. A structure should feel intentional — as if it were always meant to be there.

Roof pitch, materials, trim detail, and color selection must coordinate with the existing home. For higher-end properties, this often means custom sizing, upgraded materials, and careful placement to preserve sight lines and landscaping. When executed

20

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

Built for Longevity Quality craftsmanship is essential.

Materials must withstand changing seasons while maintaining structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. From pressure-treated framing and premium siding options to metal or architectural shingle roofing, durability plays a central role in every build.

Equally important is professional installation. Proper site preparation, foundation work, and permitting considerations ensure that each structure performs beautifully for years to come.

A Thoughtful Investment Well-designed outdoor structures do more than add square footage. They elevate how a property feels and functions.

For many homeowners, they also contribute to curb appeal and resale value by creating distinctive, usable outdoor living areas that stand apart in today’s market.

When design, craftsmanship, and lifestyle come together, a backyard becomes something more — a private destination just steps from home.

Backyard Structures is located at 513 Route 36 in Belford.

For more information call 732-327-0160 or visit their website at backyardstructuresnj.com

HOME SERVICE S & D E S IGN G U ID E

Design Line Kitchens Cabinets That Combine Style, Function, and Longevity

A

t Design Line Kitchens, we design and build cabinets that are as functional as they are beautiful. Thoughtful planning, quality materials, and custom solutions create kitchens that work for daily life, entertain with ease, and stand the test of time.

Features Homeowners Love Some of the most appreciated cabinet features are initially overlooked.

Deep drawer storage instead of traditional lower cabinets, integrated or smart appliances, large workstation sinks, hidden utensil storage, and lux multi-metal finishes enhance convenience, organization, and style. These features make daily cooking and entertaining more efficient and enjoyable.

Avoiding Common Design Mistakes Designing a kitchen around appearance rather than workflow is a frequent misstep. Other common issues include insufficient storage, oversized islands that disrupt circulation, poorly placed appliances, too many upper cabinets that make a space feel heavy, and failing to invest in quality cabinetry. We can help you design your kitchen around how you cook, move, and live in the space to ensure both efficiency and comfort.

The Benefits of Custom Cabinetry Custom cabinetry allows kitchens to be tailored specifically to the home and its residents. Perfectly fitted cabinets, personalized storage solutions, high-quality materials and construction, and architectural details create a kitchen that feels intentional, cohesive, and uniquely suited to the homeowner’s needs. Creative solutions such as hidden charging stations, pull-out cutting

boards, functional coffee stations, and concealed appliance garages maximize space and convenience. We can utilize every inch of small spaces, making you feel organized and stylish.

Efficiency and Zones Well-designed cabinetry creates distinct zones for cooking, prep, beverages, and entertaining. Placing items where they are needed ensures smoother workflows, whether preparing meals or hosting guests.

Value and Long-Term Investment Investing in high-quality cabinetry enhances the home’s long-term value.

It improves daily functionality, creates a timeless look, and often influences buyers’ perception of the entire home.

Trends in Kitchen Design Homeowners are increasingly choosing warm, personalized kitchens with natural wood cabinetry, mixed finishes, hidden storage, integrated pantry walls, minimal hardware, and soft organic palettes like olive, sand, and warm white. These designs move away from stark, impersonal kitchens and toward spaces that feel warm, lived-in, and timeless.

Design Line Kitchens is here to help you design and build a space that is both beautiful and highly functional, tailored to your lifestyle, and built to last for years to come.

Design Line Kitchens is located at 2127 Highway 35, Sea Girt, NJ 08735.

For more information call (732) 449-6760 or visit their website at designlinekitchens.com

MonmouthCommunity.com APRIL 2026

21

HOME SERVICE S & D E S IGN G U ID E

Home Improvement Directory Indoors or outdoors, big projects or small, you don’t need to look further than Monmouth County for the experts you need to bring your home improvement project to life.

ARCHITECTS

RENOVATION & DESIGN

M.B. Hearn Architecture, LLC 1007B Main St., Belmar 732-556-9055 mbhearn.com

Captivating Construction 21 Driftwood Ln., Colts Neck 732-365-4039 captivatingconstruction.com

Parallel Architecture Group 65 Monmouth St., 2nd Floor, Red Bank 732-842-3132 494 Broadway, Suite #3, Long Branch 732-229-4400 parallelgrp.com

Closettec 203 Woodward Rd., Manalapan 732-792-0088 closettecnj.com

PLM Architect 630 Broad St., Suite H, Shrewsbury 732-567-1728 plmarchitect.com Zimbler Architecture 30 South St., Freehold 732-780-8850 zim-arch.com FURNISHINGS & DECOR

HV Design Group 174 County Rd., 537, Colts Neck 732-252-9900 hvdesigngroup.com Majestic Exteriors 420 NJ-34, Colts Neck 732-577-9813 majesticexteriors.com

British Cottage 126 Shrewsbury Ave., Red Bank 732-530-0685 britishcottage.com

Renewal Solutions Kitchen, Bathroom & Basements 740 Lloyd Rd., Aberdeen Twp. 732-724-0474 renewalsolutionsinc.com

Coastal Decor & Interior Design 36 Beach Rd., Suite 5, Monmouth Beach 732-842-8244 coastaldecoranddesign.com

MARINE & DOCK SERVICES

Home Warehouse of NJ 912 Highway 35, Ocean 732-807-4440 thehomewarehouseofnj.com Platypus Home 89 Newman Springs Rd., East Shrewsbury 732-758-0100 platypushome.com Seaside Furniture 300 Brick Blvd., Brick Twp. 732-262-8788 seasidefurniture.com

22

Garden State Renovations NJ 317 Norgrove Pl., Long Branch 848-667-1400 gardenstaterenovate.com

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

EZ Docks Unlimited Marine Construction 556 NJ-36, Belford 732-328-6638 ez-docks.com Twin Rivers Marine Construction Long Branch 732-403-6010 twinriversmc.com Hicks Marine Red Bank 908-902-0658 hicksmarine.com Monmouth Doc Works Monmouth County Area 732-982-6714 monmouthdockworks.com

HOME SERVICE S & D E S IGN G U ID E MATERIALS & SUPPLIES Appliance Brokers 1001 Asbury Ave., Asbury Park 732-807-7342 ablsales.com Builders’ General Supply 15 Sycamore Ave., Little Silver 732-747-0808 buildersgeneral.com Middletown Trailer Supply 550 Highway 36, Belford 732-787-6502 middletowntrailer.com Monmouth Building Center 777 Shrewsbury Ave., Shrewsbury 732-898-0761 monmouthbuildingcenter.com Precision Glass Solutions 89 Highway 35 N., Eatontown 732-389-8175 precisionglassnj.com OUTDOOR DESIGN Backyard Structures 513 NJ-36, Belford 732-495-8866 backyardstructuresnj.com Fencing by Excellence Middletown 732-400-5426 fencingbyexcellence.com Millenium Stone Works 57 Beaver Dam Rd., Colts Neck 732-510-1112 milleniumstoneworks.com S.A.M. Decks & Home Improvement Freehold & Surrounding Area 732-683-9709 samdecks.com Shoreline Hardscaping 275 Spring St., Red Bank 908-309-0378 shorelinehardscapingllc.com PLUMBING & HEATING Belmar Plumbing & Heating 1008 Main St., Belmar 732-462-0205 belmarplumbing.com Caballero & Sons Plumbing & Heating 71 Bannard St., Freehold 732-294-7971 caballeroplumbing.com

Navesink Plumbing & Heating 162 Avenue D., Atlantic Highlands 732-673-3704 navesinkplumbing.com Neil Slattery Plumbing Heating & Cooling 116 Main St., Farmingdale 732-223-8320 neilslatteryplumbing.com Tilton Pump & Plumbing, LLC Neptune 732-918-0092 tiltonpumpservice.com SPECIALTY CONTRACTORS Gemini Spray Foam Systems 182 Washington St., Long Branch 732-263-2858 geminisprayfoam.com Heron’s Masonry LLC 2513 Asbury Ave., Ocean Township 732-918-7214 heronsmasonry.com Louis & Sons Drywall, Inc. 182 Washington St., Long Branch 732-229-4500 louisandsonsdrywall.com Monmouth & Ocean County Awning Co. 508 Main St., Asbury Park 732-775-4881 monmouthandoceancountyawning.com Roman’s Painting & Improvements 12 Jeanne Dr., Neptune Township 732-676-0250 romanspaintingimprovements.com WINDOWS & DOORS Factory Direct Windows and Doors 82 Stream Bank Dr., Freehold 973-834-0204 windowsdoorsnewjersey.com HM Doors 3350 US-9, Freehold 732-558-3815 hmdoorsnj.com Monmouth Millwork 3535 NJ-66 #4, Neptune 732-774-5441 monmouthmillwork.com Prown’s Windows & Doors 669 State Highway 35 N., Middletown 732-741-7500 prowns.com

MonmouthCommunity.com APRIL 2026

23

Monmouth Medical Center Again Named Top Teaching Hospital by The Leapfrog Group Highlighting its nationally recognized achievements in patient safety and quality, Monmouth Medical Center (MMC), a Regional Medical Campus of Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, has been named a Top Teaching Hospital by The Leapfrog Group for a fourth time.

The Leapfrog Top Hospital award is widely acknowledged as one of the most competitive honors American hospitals can receive. The Top Hospital designation is awarded by The Leapfrog Group, an independent hospital watchdog organization.

Among thousands of hospitals in the country, MMC was one of just 156 of the nation’s hospitals recognized as a Top Teaching Hospital, and among just seven in New Jersey, and the only hospital in Monmouth and Ocean counties to be included on the Leapfrog list. The Top Hospital Award comes on the heels of MMC’s 26th overall “A” Hospital Safety Grade, also from the Leapfrog Group.

“This impressive achievement is a testament to our respected reputation as a university-level medical center that attracts the top physicians to our teaching faculty,” said President and CEO Eric Carney. “Our resident physicians and medical students are an integral part of our RWJBarnabas Health mission to partner with our communities to build and sustain a healthier New Jersey as an academic health system. This recognition also speaks to our vision to be the premier health care destination providing patient-centered, high-quality academic medicine in a compassionate and equitable manner.”

MMC is a member of the Council of Teaching Hospitals of the Association of American Medical Colleges, a status held by only 400 of the nation’s 6,000 hospitals, and

To learn more about MMC, visit rwjbh.org/Monmouth

trains residents and fellows in Dental Medicine, Internal Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Orthopaedic Surgery, Pathology, Pediatrics, Pharmacy, Diagnostic Radiology and General Surgery.

Medical education has long played a key role at MMC. In fact, in 1945, the hospital established its first residency program in orthopaedics – the first such program in New Jersey – to meet the needs of physicians returning from World War II trained in treating battlefield trauma. In June, the hospital celebrated the 80th anniversary of its Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program as it graduated its class of 2025.

“As a teaching hospital, Monmouth Medical Center prides itself not just on providing quality health care, but on preparing the physicians of tomorrow,” said Chief Academic Officer Dr. Joseph Jaeger. “Widely recognized for the quality of their programs, teaching hospitals are responsible for training new generations of physicians and are the frontrunners in medical research and technology.”

Performance across many areas of hospital care is considered in establishing the qualifications for the award, including infection rates, maternity care, and the hospital’s capacity to prevent medication errors. To qualify for the Top Hospitals distinction, hospitals must submit a Leapfrog Hospital Survey and achieve the highest performance scores in its category.

Your care, your birth, your way.

Moms-to-be, you have many maternity care choices. But according to U.S. News & World Report, our name stands out. We’ve received their highest rating for best maternity hospitals for four consecutive years, demonstrating our dedication to the very highest quality in maternity care. The latest example of our belief that caring for women’s health starts with caring about women. Visit rwjbh.org/maternity

NOW OPEN IN HOLMDEL

Come try our cooked-to-order steakburgers made with lean 100% ground beef, all-beef hot dogs, crispy shoestring fries and frozen custard treats made with freshly churned chocolate or vanilla frozen custard.

Psychotherapy Haven for Healing is a psychotherapy practice dedicated to supporting people in exploring, understanding, and pursuing change to enhance their quality of life We are committed to providing compassionate and empowering care in the following areas: Pregnancy | Postpartum | Parenthood Anxiety & Depression | Life Transitions | Trauma Chronic/Acute Health Concerns | Relationship Changes 174 Patterson Ave., Suite 4 | Shrewsbury, NJ 07702

732.305.0454

2136 Route 35 South, Unit 200 • Holmdel, NJ

www.HavenforHealingNJ.com

Online Ordering and Delivery Available

www.Freddys.com

info@havenforhealingnj.com

JERSEY MIKE’S OPENING THIS MONTH — CALL FOR LEASE SPECIALS!

.5 11 ES MIL

I-195 INTERSTATE LEGEND PROPOSED TRAFFIC MOVEMENT EXISTING TRAFFIC MOVEMENT TO BE REMOVED EXISTING TRAFFIC MOVEMENT TO REMAIN

MEDICAL RESEARCH & EDUCATION CAMPUS

AFFORDABLE HOUSING

MONMOUTH ROAD SFGA WATER PARK EXPANSION

ACCESS EASEMENT TO SIX FLAGS

AIR DOME RECREATION & CONVENTION CENTER

RESIDENTIAL TOWNHOMES

JACKSON PREMIUM OUTLETS

PARKING GARAGE

MIXED USE WAR

EHOU SE #1

AR EH #2 OU S W

ES

IL M

ES MIL

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

19

26

.5

E

11

ADVENTURE SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT

The Shining Outdoors Pantano Outdoor Supply Spruces Up Your Home

BY EMMA SYLVIA

I

t can’t be “home sweet home” without your own personal touch. With the dreary and dull grays of the winter finally receding behind us as the snow melts and the sun finally peaks above the horizon, a nice day in April is nearly enough to convince you that it’s summertime in Monmouth County. No matter the weather, it’s definitely the time to host your friends and family at your house — a house that just says “you.”

DJ Luccarelli, a Holmdel resident and General Manager of Pantano Outdoor Supply of Holmdel, talks about not just the home decor that Pantano is known for offering, but the garden hardscape, large indoor greenhouse, and new unique outdoor products that are perfect for the upcoming summer season.

The Summer Season Pantano is home to a full supply of home and gardenscape goods for both contractors and homeowners. With flowering plants and annuals, evergreens and more, their indoor greenhouse is home to a large variety of indoor and outdoor plants,

as well as pottery and giftware. “We try to source more unique [and] higher quality products that you can’t find in your everyday home goods store,” Luccarelli explains.

Pantano also works hand-in-hand with contractors, being the largest distributor of Tech-Bloc, a premier landscape manufacturer company, not just in the county or state, but the entire country. Whatever a contractor needs for their project, Pantano supplies — alongside their knowledgeable and trained professional staff.

In terms of homeware, Pantano provides sustainably produced products with exceptional quality. “One of our standout brands, Linnea and Co., epitomizes luxury home fragrance with its Swedish-inspired design and impeccable craftsmanship,” Luccarelli expresses. “Explore our selection of candles, diffusers, and room sprays, featuring delightful garden scents like Crushed Mint and Heirloom Tomato, as well as our best-selling Cashmere, with notes of chamomile, amber wood, and patchouli.”

MonmouthCommunity.com APRIL 2026

27

This spring, Pantano is thrilled to expand their products to body care offerings with small, family and female-founded brands like, My Neighbors, based in Hudson, New York, and McEvoy Ranch Ode Olive Body Oil. “These products are perfect for gardeners who work with their hands in the sun and need that extra care,” he notes.

What Pantano is eager to present to Monmouth residents, however, is their outdoor accessories. Monmouth and the Jersey Shore at large are just the places to be in the summer, with days of eighty degrees and sunshine being perfect for the everyday host who is finally ready to move the party from the den and into the backyard.

“This year, we’re getting more involved in outdoor accessories for your

28

What Luccarelli and the team at Pantano know well is the hassle and ache that designing and decorating a home can bring. They aim to eliminate some of that strife by being the one-stop shop for contractors and homeowners to go to.

“We want to have the product here so they don’t have to go to multiple places to purchase,” Luccarelli says. “When it comes to the outdoors of your home, we’re trying to find areas where we can supply you with everything: lighting, hardscapes, gravels, decorative stones, walkways, firepits — you name it, and we have pretty much everything that a homeowner would need to complete the entire landscape package of their home.” home,” Luccarelli says. “That includes high-end grills, refrigerators, and anything that you would need to set up an outdoor kitchen.”

Also selling custom structures, from pool houses to storage sheds or outdoor offices, Pantano is proud to be the new destination for the homeowner looking to embrace the sun. “There’s only so much you can do with plants and certain accessories. We’re always looking to expand in that area,” he states.

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

The Extra Mile Aside from the summer season, Pantano is looking forward to the rest of the year ahead — and beyond. 2026 was home to Pantano’s first-ever winter market, which they held in January to great success. Aiming to bring the community together and highlight the store during a slower season, the winter market features Monmouth vendors right at Pantano’s Holmdel location.

The event was so lauded, in fact, that Pantano will be hosting smaller vendor

markets throughout the year.

This April, they’ll continue to host the NJ Native Plant Society Pollinator Day. Additionally, they host educational and DIY programs throughout the year, such as their popular wreathmaking class and Plant Bingo at Source Brewery in Colts Neck.

Luccarelli, overall, encourages peo-

ple to take that first step into Pantano.

“A lot of people say they drive by, and they don’t really know what’s in here until they come in. We’re more than a greenhouse or a nursery; we have a lot of things to offer,” he describes. “I highly suggest for people to give us a try… We have a lot to offer, and we have a very professional staff that’s helpful

and accommodating. We go that extra mile and give that extra effort.”

To find out more about Pantano Outdoor Supply, visit pantanooutdoorsupply.com, or visit @pantanohomeandgarden on Instagram and Pantano Home & Garden on Facebook.

MonmouthCommunity.com APRIL 2026

29

Pantano is here to help you find the perfect addition to your outdoors.

Check out these high-end grills to give your outdoor kitchen that much needed upgrade.

The TrueFlame grill redefines value with premium cra�smanship. Available in 40”, 32”, & 25” models, each is packed with all the features you could hope for in a grill. Interior and exterior ligh�ng, square stainless steel cooking grates, heat separators for op�mal control make gourmet grilling easy. With the Gold Standard Warranty, this is a commercial grade quality grill you can trust.

Beauty & durability come together to create this truly high performance grill.

32” TrueFlame Grill

The Atlas Grill is a high-performance, luxury grill line made en�rely in the USA. Elevate your outdoor lifestyle with the seamless design and superior performance of the Atlas Grill. #304 stainless steel construc�on, interior and exterior ligh�ng, and a dual posi�on warming rack system are just a few of the features that ensure you get the most out of your outdoor kitchen in both style and func�onality. The flame-taming burner covers vaporize flare ups and add grilling essence, while the all-new square cooking grates increase the contact surface with food, adding beau�ful grill marks and unparalleled flavor.

36” Atlas Grill

FEATURES • #304 Stainless Steel Construc�on 00 • 18-Gauge Double-lined Hood • #304 Stainless Steel Full-Width Hood Handle • 18,000 BTU U-Tube Burners • Heavy-Duty 8mm Square Cooking Grates • Flame Thrower Igni�on • Interior Halogen Cooking Lights • LED Lights Over Each Knob • Two Mul�-Posi�on Warming Racks • Easy-Clean Brique�e System MADE IN THE USA

If you want to spend more quality �me outdoors, WeatherStrong Outdoor Cabinetry is perfect for you. Made in the USA, these cabinets are built with 3/4” All-Weatherboard® composite material to withstand harsh weather condi�ons. Cabinet doors and drawer fronts are made from High Density Polyethylene (HDPE). Whether it’s pounding rain, hot summers, or cold, snowy winters, WeatherStrong cabinets are tough enough to handle it all.

40” TrueFlame Grill

FEATURES

• Exterior Ligh�ng Behind Each Knob Indica�ng On / Off Burner State • Full Length Exterior LED Bar Above Knobs • Halogen Interior Ligh�ng • Heat Zone Separators • #304 Stainless Steel Flame Tamers / Burner Covers • Square Stainless Steel Cooking Grates • Constructed with #304 Cast Stainless Steel • 14,000 BTU Burners #304 Cast Stainless Burners • Flame Thrower Igni�on • 10,000 BTU Infrared Back Burner (32” & 40” Only) • Balanced, Mul�-Posi�on Hood Hinge • Knurled Heat Resistant Handle • Warming Rack with Inset, Removable Cooking Tray, perfect for basing • ETL Cer�fied

FEATURES

• Lighter Than Tradi�onal Masonry Kitchens • Marine Grade Construc�on • Dozens of Designs Available for Op�mal Flexibility • Installs on Exis�ng Pa�os with No Masonry Work • Proudly Made in the USA • Made from All-Weatherboard Composite Material • Designed to Accommodate Most Grills • 25 Year Limited Warranty • Easy-to-Follow Instruc�ons • 2 Popular Door Styles • 4 Best Selling Colors **Must Supply Your Own Countertops

30

• Built-In and Cart Models Available • Weather-Proof Vinyl Grill Head Cover • Removable, Dishwasher Safe Drip Tray • Warming Rack Storage • Built, Factory Tested and Serviced in the USA • 853 sq in. Total Cooking Surface • 54,000 Total BTUs • Gold Standard Warranty

WEATHERSTRONG

TRUEFLAME

25” TrueFlame Grill

ATLAS

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

Celebrating Earth Day & Arbor Day as a Family

PARENT'S CORNER

BY MAIA FRANCO

S

pring is a season of renewal, and Earth Day and Arbor Day in April offer families meaningful ways to celebrate the natural beauty that surrounds us. From coastal cleanups to tree plantings and hands-on environmental workshops, there are engaging opportunities for children and adults to learn, serve, and connect outdoors.

tainers with non-toxic paint or recycled paper collage. Plant basil, parsley, or wildflower seeds.

Earth Day — April 22 Founded in 1970, Earth Day is a global call to environmental stewardship. Here in Monmouth County, it’s also a chance to explore our parks, beaches, and conservation spaces.

Park Cleanups & Nature Walks — The Monmouth County Park System frequently hosts Earth Day-themed events, including guided nature walks, invasive species removal projects, and shoreline cleanups.

Family-friendly options often include: • Short, stroller-accessible cleanups • Educational talks about native wildlife • Junior ranger-style activity booklets Children learn firsthand how litter impacts waterways like the Navesink and Shrewsbury Rivers — and how small actions protect local ecosystems.

Coastal Stewardship at the Shore — Communities such as Long Branch and Asbury Park typically organize beach sweeps in partnership with environmental nonprofits. Kids can: • Sort collected debris for data tracking • Learn about marine wildlife protection • Earn community service hours for school It’s a powerful way to teach environmental responsibility while enjoying our beautiful coastline.

DIY Compost Jar Demonstration — Layer soil, leaves, and fruit scraps in a clear jar. Watch decomposition begin over time. This visual science experiment helps children understand waste reduction.

Environmental Learning Centers — The Monmouth Conservation Foundation and NJ Audubon Society often hold family programs in April focused on: • Pollinator gardens • Bird identification • Composting basics • Native plant education Recycled Bird Feeders — Materials: Toilet paper rolls, peanut butter or seed butter, birdseed, and string. Spread seed butter on the roll, coat it in birdseed, and hang it from a backyard tree. Learning tie-in: Discuss how native birds rely on healthy ecosystems.

Upcycled Planters — Use yogurt containers, tin cans, or old mugs to create mini herb gardens. Let kids decorate the con32

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

Beach Litter Art (After a Cleanup) — If you participate in a cleanup, set aside safe, clean items (like bottle caps). Create a collage shaped like a fish or sea turtle. Conversation starter: “What would happen if this plastic stayed in the ocean?”

Arbor Day — April 24 Arbor Day emphasizes the importance of trees for clean air, stormwater management, shade, and wildlife habitat — especially critical in coastal counties vulnerable to flooding.

Community Tree Plantings — Many towns, including Red Bank, Freehold, and Middletown Township, host Arbor Day ceremonies with: • Tree dedications • Student essay contests • Hands-on planting demonstrations • Children can participate in mulching, watering, and learning about root systems and tree life cycles.

Visit Deep Cut Gardens — A spring visit to Deep Cut Gardens offers a living lesson in horticulture. Families can: • Explore blooming spring trees • Discuss native vs. ornamental species • Encourage kids to sketch or photograph trees for a home nature journal Start a Backyard Tree Project — If local events don’t fit your schedule, consider planting a tree at home. Native options well-suited for Monmouth County include: • Red maple • Eastern redbud • Flowering dogwood • Making It Meaningful for Kids Living in Monmouth County means living alongside beaches, bays, forests, and farmland. Environmental awareness isn’t abstract — it’s local. Our coastline faces erosion.

Our communities manage stormwater challenges. Our wildlife habitats require protection. Earth Day and Arbor Day provide a structured opportunity to model civic engagement for our children while strengthening community bonds. Small hands can make a big difference — especially when guided by families committed to protecting the place we call home.

Grow Memories This Mother’s Day This Mother’s Day, gather in the garden and grow something beautiful together. Pantano Home & Garden has everything you need — from stunning blooms to the tools that bring them to life.

Upcoming Events APRIL 11 Lawn Revival Seminar with Jonathan Green APRIL 25 Pollinator Day with Native Plant Society of NJ MAY 20 Plant Bingo & Trivia Night JUNE 10 Herb Dish Garden at Source Farmhouse Brewing

Visit our website

Host Your Next Gathering or Birthday With Us! Visit our website for more details

161 NJ-34 | HOLMDEL, NJ 07733 | 732-946-3804 www.PantanoOutdoorSupply.com

HEALTH CORNER

Nourishing Women from the Inside Out

BY MAIA FRANCO

H

olistic health emphasizes interconnected systems: endocrine balance, gut health, metabolic stability, and inflammation regulation. Many common concerns — fatigue, PMS, irregular cycles, mood fluctuations, brain fog — are influenced by nutrition. These recipes are built around key nutrients that support women’s physiology.

1. Iron & Folate Power Bowl Supports: Energy, menstrual health, pregnancy planning Iron deficiency remains one of the most common nutritional gaps among women of reproductive age. Folate supports cellular repair and is critical during childbearing years.

Ingredients: • Baby spinach • Quinoa • Roasted sweet potatoes • Chickpeas • Pumpkin seeds • Lemon-tahini dressing Why it works: Spinach and chickpeas provide plant-based iron; pumpkin seeds add zinc and magnesium; quinoa delivers complete protein. Pairing iron-rich foods with vitamin C (lemon juice) enhances absorption.

2. Omega-3 Salmon with Roasted Cruciferous Vegetables Supports: Hormonal balance, inflammation reduction, heart health Omega-3 fatty acids are linked to improved mood stability and reduced inflammatory markers — especially relevant for PMS and perimenopause.

Ingredients: • Wild-caught salmon • Broccoli and Brussels sprouts • Olive oil • Garlic • Fresh herbs (of choice) Why it works: Salmon provides EPA and DHA, crucial for cardiovascular and neurological health. Cruciferous vegetables assist in estrogen metabolism through compounds like sulforaphane and indole-3-carbinol.

3. Seed Cycling Smoothie Supports: Menstrual cycle regulation Seed cycling is a functional nutrition strategy some women use to support hormone rhythms.

Blend: • Ground flaxseed • Pumpkin seeds • Frozen berries

34

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

• Unsweetened almond milk • Cinnamon Why it works: Flax and pumpkin seeds provide lignans and zinc, nutrients associated with estrogen and progesterone modulation.

4. Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup Supports: Immune resilience, gut health Chronic low-grade inflammation can influence autoimmune risk, joint pain, and metabolic concerns.

Ingredients: • Red lentils • Turmeric • Ginger • Coconut milk • Carrots • Vegetable broth Why it works: Turmeric’s active compound, curcumin, has studied anti-inflammatory properties. Lentils offer fiber for microbiome support — critical because gut bacteria influence estrogen recycling.

5. Dark Chocolate & Walnut Energy Bites Supports: Mood and magnesium levels Magnesium deficiency is common in women and may contribute to cramps, headaches, and sleep disturbances.

Ingredients: • Rolled oats • Almond butter • Crushed walnuts • Dark chocolate (70%+ cacao) • Honey Why it works: Walnuts supply omega-3s; dark chocolate contains magnesium and flavonoids that support vascular health.

A Holistic Framework Beyond the Plate Nutrition is foundational — but holistic health also integrates: • Sleep hygiene • Strength training for bone density • Stress regulation practices • Community connection Monmouth County offers yoga studios, walking trails, and coastal spaces that encourage movement and mindfulness.

Whether it’s a sunrise walk along the beach in Long Branch or a quiet afternoon at Hartshorne Woods Park, local access to nature enhances overall well-being.

Why It Matters Women often prioritize caregiving, careers, and community roles before their own health. Nourishment is not indulgent—it is preventative care. Moving forward, consider preparing one new recipe each week that supports your physiology.

New Tennants Feature

Broadway Chicken is bringing its bold, crave-worthy flavors to Oceanport, NJ! Known for its perfectly seasoned fried chicken, signature sandwiches, and comfort-food favorites, Broadway Chicken has built a loyal following for food that hits every time.

The new Oceanport location will offer the same mouthwatering menu that fans love.

Whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite or grabbing dinner for the family, Broadway Chicken delivers big flavor and quality you can taste.

StoneFitt Performance is bringing a results-driven approach to fitness and wellness to Oceanport.

Known for personalized training, strength and conditioning programs, and a supportive community, StoneFitt is designed for all fitness levels — from beginners to seasoned athletes.

The new location will offer expert coaching in a motivating, high-energy environment focused on long-term performance and healthy living.

Whether your goal is to build strength, improve mobility, or elevate your overall fitness, StoneFitt delivers.

Follow them on Instagram for classes and updates.

707 Oceanport Ave. | Oceanport, NJ 07757 www.broadwaychicken.com @broadway_chicken

705 Oceanport Ave. | Oceanport, NJ 07757 www.stonefittperformance.com @stonefitt.performance

Round Dough With A Hole is serving up handcrafted bagels made fresh daily in Oceanport, NJ. Known for perfectly baked bagels, creative flavor options, and classic favorites, this local spot is quickly becoming a go-to for breakfast and lunch.

Round Dough With A Hole is the perfect stop for morning coffee, a hearty sandwich, or a grab-and-go bite.

Whether you prefer a traditional everything bagel or a specialty creation, there’s something for everyone.

Follow them on Instagram for menu highlights and updates.

703 Oceanport Ave. | Oceanport, NJ 07757 www.rounddoughwithahole.com @rounddoughwithahole

My Thai Massage and Wellness has expanded and opened its second location in Oceanport, NJ, bringing its trusted approach to holistic healing to the community. Specializing in traditional Thai massage, the practice focuses on restoring balance through mindful movement, assisted stretching, and therapeutic touch rooted in holistic medicine.

Designed to support both physical and mental well-being, My Thai Massage and Wellness offers a calming environment where relaxation and renewal come together. Visit the new location to experience personalized care that promotes flexibility, stress relief, and overall wellness.

713 Oceanport Ave. | Oceanport, NJ 07757

A Night with the Stars: Where Futures Shine Brookdale’s 2026 Scholarship Bash

T

he Brookdale Community College Foundation invites the community to A Night with the Stars: Where Futures Shine on Friday, April 24, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at Branches in West Long Branch. The evening will bring together friends and champions of Brookdale to celebrate generosity and invest in the success of students across our community.

Brookdale is the #1 community college in New Jersey and ranks in the top 10% of community colleges nationally. Its Cyber Defense and Nursing programs are designated Centers of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the National League for Nursing. With 130 nurses graduating annually, many of us, or our loved ones, will benefit from their care at some point. Yet more than 50% of Brookdale students rely on financial aid.

“We hope the community will join us for a wonderful eve-

ning that celebrates Brookdale students and helps ensure their futures continue to shine,” said 2026 Scholarship Bash Co-Chairs Carol Stillwell, Candy Langan-Sattenspiel, and Tracey Abby-White Guests will enjoy an elegant evening featuring dinner, dancing, an open bar, and both live and silent auctions, all in celebration of the bright futures made possible through scholarship support. Proceeds from the evening directly fund scholarships that remove financial barriers and help Brookdale students pursue and complete their academic goals.

Join us for a night where generosity shines and futures rise.

For more information or to purchase tickets and sponsorships, visit 26BASH.givesmart.com or email foundation@ brookdalecc.edu

A N I G H T W I T H T H E S TA R S , W H E R E F U T U R E S S H I N E

rookdale’s

SCHOLARSHIP BASH

JOIN US F R I D AY, A P R I L 2 4 , 2 0 2 6 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM

SCAN QR TO R SVP

H O S T E D AT B RA N C H E S I N W E S T L O N G B RA N C H

36

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

Local HERO Tell us about yourself and your role in the community.

I am a proud lifelong resident of Holmdel. I was born and raised here, and I’m still dedicated to the town I call home. My volunteer career in public service started 22 years ago when I joined the Holmdel First Aid Squad as a 15-year-old cadet. Following my time at Rutgers University, I returned to Holmdel to step into leadership, and I have proudly served as your elected Chief for the last 10 years.

By day, I am a scientist, and that analytical mindset naturally carries into my role as Chief. Balancing a demanding career with the 24/7 responsibilities of leading a volunteer first aid squad, while prioritizing family and friends, requires discipline. My wife, Jessica, is also a dedicated EMT and educator, so even our “family time” often reflects our shared commitment to serving the community.

As Chief, my priority is the safety and well-being of every resident. I manage daily emergency operations and work alongside agencies like the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office, Hackensack Meridian Health, and other Holmdel Emergency Services to ensure our 911 response is seamless, professional, and reliable.

What inspired you to pursue this path?

My path into volunteering wasn’t sparked by a single moment, but by a sense of responsibility to the place that raised me. Joining the squad as a cadet introduced me to the power of community. I was taught that in a person’s most vulnerable moment, the face they see shouldn’t just be a technician—it should be a neighbor.

What do you find most rewarding about your work?

After 22 years of service, what I find most rewarding is the ability to protect the community that raised me. There is a unique fulfillment in growing from a cadet into the Chief who now mentors the next generation. Knowing that when someone calls 911, we’ve built a team that is prepared, professional, and compassionate is incredibly meaningful. Ensuring residents receive high-quality care from people who truly care about them is a responsibility I don’t take lightly.

Name: Christopher Trischitta Title/Role: Chief Organization: Holmdel First Aid Squad Town: Holmdel Township Share a memorable experience or moment in your journey so far.

When I was first elected Chief, I was significantly younger than my predecessors, but I had over a decade of experience responding to emergencies in Holmdel. I was mentored by the best, and I knew not just the protocols, but the streets and families. I understood that leading a veteran squad required earning respect through work ethic and vision, not just a title.

How has your work impacted the local community?

My work has helped professionalize a volunteer service to meet the standards of a high-tier EMS agency.

Beyond the thousands of calls we answer, our Cadet program has created a pipeline of local talent, sustaining volunteerism in a time when many communities struggle to find help.

Is there anything unique about your position or journey?

I was the youngest individual elected Chief in our squad’s history, yet I stepped into the role with nearly a decade of experience. I see myself as a bridge between Holmdel’s longstanding volunteer tradition and a modern era of high-tech emergency medicine.

What advice would you offer to others in the community?

Don’t wait for the “right time” to get involved. I started as a 15-year-old with simple curiosity and found a lifelong purpose. Whether you’re a student, professional, or retiree, this community thrives because people show up for one another.

Are there any upcoming events, initiatives, or projects you’d like readers to know about?

The Holmdel Volunteer First Aid Squad is a 100% non-profit volunteer agency, and we do not bill for our services. When we respond to your home, you will never receive a bill. We provide professional emergency care free of charge and rely on community support. Donate via www.HolmdelFirstAid.com or look out for our annual fund drive.

What’s the best way for readers to learn more or support your work? www.HolmdelFirstAid.com

MonmouthCommunity.com APRIL 2026

37

Divorce Is Difficult.

The Right Team Makes It Easier.

The lawyer you choose — and the team behind them — can shape the outcome of your case. With three decades devoted to family law, Frank J. LaRocca has built a firm grounded in preparation, strategic thinking, and disciplined advocacy.

Each case is managed with experienced oversight and supported by a coordinated legal team committed to protecting your parental rights, financial security, and long-term stability.

When the stakes are personal, seasoned leadership and teamwork make a meaningful difference.

Protect Your Future. Call Today!

LAROCCA HORNIK ROSEN GREENBERG & CRUPI LLC

252 South St. | Freehold, NJ 07728

WWW.DIVORCELAWNJ.COM

DEXTER of Colts Neck

BANE of Colts Neck

BERNIE of Colts Neck

CALIE of Holmdel

COCO of Colts Neck

MS. KITTY and SAM of Holmdel

PEONY of Colts Neck

Your pets can be celebrities too.

Send in a photo to info@CommunityMagazineNJ.com

Four-legged Fun!

BY BILL CLARK

2ND ANNUAL SPRING FLING FUN DAY

AUTISM Awareness Event

Saturday, April 25th Raindate Sunday, April 26th 12 PM - 4 PM Bucks Mill Park 135 Bucks Mill Road, Colts Neck, NJ

EVERYONE WELCOME!

Bounce Houses, Touch a Truck, Petting Zoo, DJ, Vendors, Food Trucks, Classic Car Display, Face Painting, Balloons, Characters and More!!!

Adults & Kids Admission $5 Buy Online

by April 8, 2026 or at door on day of.

NEURODIVERGENT CHILDREN & ADULTS ADMITTED FREE Must Register by April 8 www.autismharmony.org VENDORS / CRAFTERS BUSINESS TABLES / FOOD TRUCKS Email for application: autismharmonynj@gmail.com For Information about Sponsorhips / Donations Email: autismharmonynj@gmail.com

40

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

Jersey Shore Premium Outlets 1 Premium Outlet Blvd., Tinton Falls premiumoutlets.com With plenty of walkable areas, visitors can bring leashed dogs while strolling through the Jersey Shore Premium Outlets in Tinton Falls. As the weather warms, the outlets offer a great place to enjoy a spring outing with your pup.

If the weather turns rainy, there are also plenty of overhangs to provide cover from those April showers.

Asbury Park Distilling Company 527 Lake Ave., Asbury Park apdistilling.com With handcrafted cocktails made from their premium liquors, Asbury Park Distilling Company is a great place to enjoy warmer evenings with your pup on the outdoor patio. Located on Lake Avenue, the tasting room sits across the street from Wesley Lake, offering plenty of space for a walk before or after enjoying a selection of gin, bourbon or vodka specialties.

Thompson Park Lincroft 805 Newman Springs Rd., Lincroft monmouthcountyparks.com With more than 14 miles of trails, Thompson Park in Lincroft is an ideal spot for long walks with a high energy pup. The park also features an off leash dog area where pets can roam freely within a secure 1.5 acre fenced space.

A separate area is available for smaller dogs weighing under 35 pounds.

10th Ave Burrito 801 Belmar Plaza, Belmar tenthaveburrito.com 10th Ave Burrito’s covered outdoor seating area is a great place to enjoy tacos, burritos or nachos while your pup relaxes beside you. With bars both inside and outside, guests can enjoy specialty margaritas made with a wide selection of tequilas, along with a variety of draft beers.

It is also a festive spot to gather ahead of Cinco de Mayo celebrations.

AROUND TOWN » COLTS NECK | HOLMDEL

8

Cedar Drive Middle School Celebrates Read Across America Week

th graders from Cedar Drive Middle School brought the joy of reading to Conover Road Primary School classrooms during Read Across America Week! Over 60 volunteers shared stories with younger students, continuing this beloved tradition. A special thank you to Ms. Carrie Sullivan for coordinating this wonderful experience for students!

Photo credit: Colts Neck Township Schools Facebook page

Holmdel Residents Show Off Their History Knowledge

T

he Holmdel 250 Committee continued its commemoration of America’s founding by hosting a trivia night at Texas Roadhouse. Questions focused on the township’s role in the American Revolution, and the top teams took home certificates celebrating their victory.

Photo credit: Holmdel Township Facebook page

Expert Day-of Event Coordination for Any Special Occasion

nettaroseevents.com Netta Rose Events

SCAN TO LEARN MORE

Enjoy the Event You Planned, Worry-Free.

MonmouthCommunity.com APRIL 2026

41

AROUND TOWN » COLTS NECK | HOLMDEL

improve your

SMILE Dr. Sezer Olcay NJ Specialty #5167

✓ University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine ✓ Monmouth Medical Center General Practice Residency ✓ Montefiore Medical Center Albert Einstein College of Medicine Orthodontic Training

Tip MONTH OF THE

Don’t forget to brush above and below your braces!

COMPLIMENTARY OFFICE EXAMINATIONS CONVENIENT OFFICE HOURS • FLEXIBLE PAYMENT OPTIONS

732.847.3065 • HolmdelOrtho.com 723 North Beers Street • Suite 2A • Holmdel Also visit Dr. Olcay at Ocean Orthodontics (Ocean, NJ)

P

Student Successes

reeti Parmar and Julia Yanney of Colts Neck were named to the Dean’s List for the Fall 2025 semester at Tufts University.

Ping Lin of Holmdel graduated from The University of Texas at Austin in December with a Master of Science in Computer Science.

Jessica Widom of Holmdel was named to the President’s List for the Fall 2025 semester at Kennesaw State University.

Do you want to send us a student success tip?

Please e-mail to info@communitymagazinenj.com

Need an Electrician?

We’re Just a Call Away!

When it’s time to sell your gold or silver, we’re there to help.

From quick repairs to complete wiring, we handle it all!

Serving Jersey Shore homes and businesses for more than two decades.

14k Gold Mother of Pearl & Diamonds $1,495

Jewelry Repairs & Watch Batteries Done on Premise

85 First Ave., Atlantic Highlands • 732-872-8222

shermanjewelersah.com

42

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

Services:

Residential & Commercial Lighting | New Home Wiring Renovations | Electrical Maintenance | Generator Installations Indoor/Outdoor Lighting | Emergency Service

(732) 229.9400

www.mikechamberselectric.com

SPRING REAL ESTATE MARKET Is Your Home Ready to Sell?

Spring is historically the strongest time of year to sell a home.

More buyers enter the market, homes show better with natural light, and competition among buyers can drive stronger offers and higher sale prices.

If you are considering selling this year, preparing your home properly can make a significant difference in the final sale price.

Top 5 Things To Do Before Selling Your Home 1 Boost Your Curb Appeal - Freshen up landscaping & create an inviting entry.

2 Declutter & Depersonalize - Remove personal items and excess clutter.

3 Fresh Paint & Minor Repairs - Touch up paint and fix small issues.

4 Deep Clean Everything - Make your home sparkle from top to bottom.

5 Professional Pricing Strategy - Price it right to attract more buyers.

Why Sell This Spring?

Low Inventory in the Market Strong Buyer Demand More Activity in Spring Interest Rates Below 6%

Tom Connors

Enda Keegan

Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Agent

732-673-2836

917-439-0986

thomasconnors15@gmail.com

endakeeganrealestate@gmail.com

www.thomasconnorsrealestate.com

www.endakeeganrealestate.com

Weichert, Realtors 43 E. Main St., Holmdel, NJ 07733 732-946-9400

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

Dinner Show — AND A —

Zone 1 (Colts Neck/Holmdel Area): Atlantic Eye Dearborn Market Pantano Home Prima Pizza Zone 2 (Rumson/Fair Haven Area): Atlantic Eye Fair Haven Diner Family Tavola Shoprite (Shrewsbury) Shrewsbury Volkswagen Zone 3 (Jersey Shore Area): Asbury Park City Hall Shoppes at the Arcade (Asbury Park) Shoprite (Belmar) Shoprite (Neptune) Zone 4 (Ocean Township Area): All Seasons Diner (Eatontown) Atlantic Eye Blue Swan Diner (Ocean) Ocean Township Library Pop’s Bagels Zone 5 (Middletown Area): Atlantic Bagel Co.(Atlantic Highlands) Circus Liquors (Middletown) First Cup (Atlantic Highlands) Foodtown (Atlantic Highlands) Shoprite (Middletown) Zone 6 (Freehold Area): Cafe 360 NJ Leaf Romeo’s Pizza Shoprite (Freehold)

Check out our digital editions online at monmouthcommunity.com

44

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

Our picks for some fun nights out at local bars, restaurants and concert venues this month

BY BILL CLARK Character Brunch Sunday, April 12 @ 10:30 a.m.

The Bistro at iPlay America, Freehold thebistronj.com Lucy Kaplansky with Special Guest Dave Vargo Saturday, April 18 @ 8 p.m.

Jersey Shore Arts Center, 66 S. Main St., Ocean Grove Tickets starting at $37.84 jerseyshoreartscenter.org 90s Night Dance Party Friday, April 24 @ 9 p.m.

House of Independents, 572 Cookman Ave., Asbury Park General admission $15.98 houseofindependents.com Yacht Lobsters Friday, May 1 @ 8 p.m.

Wonder Bar, Asbury Park $20 advance, $25 at the door wonderbarasburypark.com Jazz Brunch Every Saturday (April 4, 11, 18, 25) @ 11:30 a.m.

Jack’s By the Tracks, 703 10th Ave., Belmar jacksbythetracks.com Trivia Every Tuesday (April 7, 14, 21, 28) @ 7 p.m.

B2 Bistro, 141 Shrewsbury Ave., Red Bank b2bistro.com

A Safe Haven for All

Monmouth Residents Talk New Psychotherapy Practice

BY EMMA SYLVIA

K

elly Dyckman, LCSW, and Andrea Cernero, LPC, ACS, PMH-C both Monmouth residents, opened their new psychotherapy practice, Haven for Healing in Shrewsbury in July of 2025. Before opening the practice, Dyckman gained extensive experience working in community mental health, intensive outpatient programs, and oncology outpatient facilities, among other clinical settings. For Dy-

46

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

ckman, the concept of opening her own practice was always “later on” – an epilogue to time spent at hospitals, oncology, and more. Her connection with Cernero was nearly serendipitous, as they related on both ethical and clinical levels.

“The stars aligned with us wanting to do our own thing,” Dyckman recalls.

The “thing” in question? A practice that allows them to

balance traditional therapy with the behind-thescenes work of running a practice—management, administrative leadership, workshops, and collaboration with other wellness providers—while creating the best possible environment for each individual client.

Both Dyckman and Cernero have distinct but complementary specialties that they use together in order to maximize their joint knowledge of the mental health field.

“What’s really nice about the partnership with Andrea is that we overlap in some areas but divide and conquer in others,” elaborates Dyckman.

Dyckman specializes in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, trauma, chronic or acute health concerns, and relationship and identity changes, including the transitions into and throughout adulthood.

In her therapeutic work, Dyckman incorporates several evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Internal Family Systems (IFS), which she is particularly passionate about for trauma-focused work.

“Internal Family Systems” (IFS) centers on the idea that each individual is made up of different parts derived from our unique life experiences. “I have a more anxious side; I have…my rebellious teenager,” Dyckman explains.

“Where the work comes in from an IFS perspective is understanding these parts and learning how they can be more effective and supportive of the individual.” It’s also about reconnecting with your trauma to allow healing across the whole system. Dyckman herself has found this profound train of thought more effective than any other teaching

approach she has implemented.

Meanwhile, Cernero most often uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), as well as incorporating skill-building and psychoeducation.

Her specialties include perinatal mental health, anxiety, depression, trauma, and supporting individuals through the many transitions of parenthood.

Her main clients are pregnant women, those trying to conceive, those who are postpartum, and parents in the early stages of parenting. “That’s my bread and butter: Helping people navigate those transitions.”

Home Sweet Home Finding their home in Shrewsbury, the Haven for Healing co-founders have been ecstatic to both serve the community and be welcomed by it. Cernero and Dyckman have spent their careers in Monmouth County, leading them to already having established a level of trust both in networking and with their existing clientele. Located next to New

Mom School of Shrewsbury, the pair frequently collaborate with the organization as mental health experts—Cernero speaking on postpartum depression and anxiety, and Dyckman addressing the relational changes couples often experience after welcoming a baby.

After being open for less than a year, Cernero and Dyckman look forward to their one year anniversary, as well as expanding the help that they are able to provide the residents of Shrewsbury and beyond. “[We want to make] the best of 2026 and get these workshops off the ground and show up for our community the best way to know how to,” Dyckman says.

Haven for Healing aims to offer different workshops alongside their therapy, including an upcoming Body Acceptance Workshop with River Yoga on April 27 and additional workshops in development based on trends and needs they see emerging among their clients.

“I think really there’s excitement in the fact that we’ve been able to do this,” Dyckman says. “I’m fortunate to have a partner that I respect professionally and personally. I’m also so privileged to sit with people in their journey to heal every day. I don’t take for granted what I do for a living. I’m very fortunate to be a part of someone’s changed experience. To connect the dots and get to where they want to be. To be able to create our own practice and continue the work we’re so passionate about is the best thing.”

One Small Step Taking that first step is sometimes the hardest thing for someone to do.

Haven for Healing understands this.

Cernero especially speaks from per-

MonmouthCommunity.com APRIL 2026

47

life is change – and it’s up to an individual to be proactive and not reactive in the face of change. Dyckman and Cernero have also learned about what not to do in their practice, truly being able to evolve as mental health providers and as practice owners.

Taking that first leap into a mental health journey might seem like a long tumble – but when that first step is made, you’ll realize there is no limit in ways that you can better your mental health and your life.

sonal experience: “We are one piece of the ‘overall wellness’ puzzle for someone. It’s why I got into this field. I had a traumatic loss in my early twenties; I sought therapy for the first time. It helped me so much that I changed my major [and] went into the counseling field. That’s what I think most people think of with therapy, that you have to wait for that big, traumatic moment to seek therapy…But you don’t have to wait until there is some huge stressor…You go to the gym for your physical health, but you’re not waiting for something [bad to happen]; therapy can be the same.”

As Dyckman puts it, one of the constants in

To learn more about Haven for Healing, visit havenforhealingnj.com and @havenforhealingnj on Instagram.

WE SPECIALIZE IN LANDSCAPE RENOVATION PROJECTS

As wealth accumulates, so does your risk exposure.

Get Protection Against

The Unexpected BE PROACTIVE - NOT REACTIVE

Contact a Personal Risk Manager Today FRPPrivateClient@FoundationRP.com FRPPrivateClient.com

• BRICK PAVERS/RETAINING WALLS • COMPLETE LANDSCAPING • SPRING/FALL CLEAN-UPS • WEEKLY LAWN MOWING • STONE/MULCH INSTALLATION • DRAINAGE SYSTEMS

We accept all credit cards

Certified contractors for BELGARD HARDSCAPES Certified ICPI (Pavers) • NCMA (Walls)

FREE ESTIMATES FULLY INSURED JOE & BILL LAMBERTSON NJ HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTOR NJHIC# 13VH00349200

732.566.1955 LAMBERTSONSLANDSCAPING.COM Like us on

48

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

April EVENTS CALENDAR Bell Works Fresh Farmers and Makers Market Holmdel Every Wednesday, April 1, 9, 15, 22, 29 @ 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Bell Works 101 Crawfords Corner Rd. Free to attend, asburyfresh.com Bingo and Brews Tinton Falls Every Wednesday, April 1, 9, 15, 22, 29 @ 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Twin Lights Brewery 4057 Asbury Ave. twinlightsbrewing.com Trivia Night Asbury Park Every Wednesday, April 1, 9, 15, 22, 29 @ 7 p.m. - 9 p.m Wild Air Beerworks 801 2nd Ave. Free to attend, wildairbeer.com

Candlelight: Coldplay vs.

Imagine Dragons West Long Branch Friday, April 3 @ 7 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Pollak Theater at Monmouth University Center for the Arts 400 Cedar Ave. Buy tickets at monmouth.edu/mca/ event/coldplay-vs-imagine-dragons

Asbury Park Spring Disco + Night Market Asbury Park Friday, April 17 @ 6 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Grade Arcade of Convention Hall 1300 Ocean Ave. N Tickets $25 advance/$30 at door, buy tickets at asburyparkbazaar.com/spring-disco

Play Readings Freehold Monday, April 6 @ 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

The American Hotel 18 E Main St. Free! Donations suggested. centerplayers.org/play-reading

2nd Grade World Fair Lincroft Friday, April 24 Oak Hill Academy 347 Middletown-Lincroft Rd.

Jersey Shore Restaurant Week Jersey Shore April 10 - 19 @ 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Find out more: jerseyshorerestaurantweek.com

First Fridays Arts & Sounds at the Station Asbury Park Friday, April 3 @ 5 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Asbury Park Transportation Center 1213 Ocean Ave. N Free, learn more at overthemoonartstudios.com/ first-fridays

Company: The Musical Lincroft April 10 - 26 Fri. & Sat. @ 7 p.m.

Sat. & Sun. @ 2 p.m.

Brookdale Performing Arts Center 765 Newman Springs Rd. Get tickets at brookdalecc.edu/ event/company-the-musical

Flock of Seagulls Asbury Park Friday, April 3 @ 7 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Asbury Lanes 208 4th Ave. Buy tickets at asburylanes.com

Sandy Mack’s Wonder Jam Asbury Park Sunday, April 11 @ 3 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Wonder Bar 1213 Ocean Ave. N wonderbarasburypark.com

Vaultboy Asbury Park Friday, April 3 @ 7 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Wonder Bar 1213 Ocean Ave. N Tickets $27.80, buy them at wonderbarasburypark.com

Music Bingo Asbury Park Thursday, April 16 @ 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Asbury Lanes 208 4th Ave. Buy tickets at asburylanes.com

2nd Annual Spring Fling Fun Day Autism Awareness Event Colts Neck Saturday, April 25 @ 12 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Bucks Mill Park 135 Bucks Mill Rd. Free! Register at autismharmony.org DIY Whiskey Keyport Sunday, April 26 @ 3 p.m. - 5 p.m.

3BR Distillery 7 Main St. $150/station (1-2 people/station), Register at 3brdistillery.com 5th Annual Mustaches for MS Farmingdale Sunday, April 26 @ 12:30 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Eagle Oaks Golf and Country Club 20 Shore Oaks Dr. Buy tickets at eventbrite.com/ e/5th-annual-mustaches-for-mstickets-1980789368322

MonmouthCommunity.com APRIL 2026

49

TRIUMPH & BREWERY BREWERY RESTAURANT & RED BANK

SEASONAL MENU MENU & & CRAFT CRAFT BEER BEER •• SEASONAL FULL BAR BAR || WINE WINE & & COCKTAILS COCKTAILS •• FULL SATURDAY & & SUNDAY SUNDAY BRUNCH BRUNCH •• SATURDAY HAPPY HOUR HOUR || WED-SUN WED-SUN 4-6 4-6 •• HAPPY LIVE MUSIC MUSIC || THU–MON THU–MON || NO NO COVER COVER •• LIVE MON: 4:00-9:00PM 4:00-9:00PM MON: WED & & THU: THU: 4:00-11:00PM 4:00-11:00PM WED FRI & & SAT: SAT: NOON-MIDNIGHT NOON-MIDNIGHT FRI SUN: NOON-10:00PM NOON-10:00PM SUN:

TRIUMPH TRIUMPH

XXX

EST. EST.

1995 1995

30 YEARS YEARS 30

BRIDGE AVENUE AVENUE 11 BRIDGE RED BANK, BANK, NJ NJ RED (732) 852-7300 852-7300 (732)

VISIT OUR OUR 33 LOCATIONS LOCATIONS VISIT

triumphbrewing.com triumphbrewing.com

BANQUETS AND EVENTS Celebrate all of life’s joyous events at The Shore Club in our premier Jersey Shore banquet hall. Let us make your next event special, from anniversaries and family reunions to wedding rehearsals and proms. Find everything you need with party venues for groups up to 350 and on-site catering.

AMENITIES THAT MAKE IT ALL YOURS • Professional event planner • On-site catering • Seating arrangements and design • Station, plated, or buffet dining options • Table accents, décor, linens, and silverware • Grand ballroom holding up to 350 guests • Smaller spaces with capacities of 40 to 150

700 State Hwy 71 Spring Lake, NJ 07762 732.449.3666

50

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

www.theshoreclubnj.com

Brock Farms

This Monmouth County Institution Puts Selection and Service at the Forefront

BY REBECCA KING

I

n the late ‘60s, Route 34 was “nothing but roadstands,” said Eddie Brock, Jr., owner of Brock Farms in Freehold and Colts Neck.

That was how his family’s home and garden center started, selling lush Jersey produce to day trippers headed down the shore. At the time, Brock, Jr. explained, fewer people had shore houses and would take the trek back up Route 34 after a full day at the beach.

“Road stands were open all hours of the night,” he said, meaning his father, Ed Brock Sr., would often stay out until 1 a.m., giving shore-goers the chance to stock up before heading home.

“He had that kind of drive,” said Brock, Jr. of his father.

“He kept going with it.”

Now, the over 80-year-old Brock Farms locations are Monmouth County institutions. Locals flock to them for garden plants and outdoor statuary in the spring and summer, pumpkins and mums in the autumn, Christmas trees in the winter, and home decor year-round.

From Blueberries to Bulbs Born in 1933, Ed Brock, Sr. grew up where Naval Weapons Station Earle currently stands. His interest in plants and produce began early. When he was eight years old, he would

MonmouthCommunity.com APRIL 2026

51

often pick wild blueberries in his backyard, encouraged by his parents to explore his love of the land.

“That’s how it started,” said Brock, Jr. “It was built up to be two retail markets, farming over 700 acres, and shipping everywhere.”

Ed Brock Sr., who has passed the daily operations of the farm to his children, Eddie and Linda, has seen the business through many phases. In 1958, he expanded the original Colts Neck location to include an outpost in Freehold on Route 9. He started selling nursery products in the early ‘60s in addition to his farmstand produce.

ther work seven days a week during the spring, summer, and fall. And during the winter, when the garden centers closed, he began working at an electric company for the season.

“It’s a tough industry,” said Brock, Jr. “The weather gets in the way of every plan you have. Holidays don’t exist.

You either love it or you don’t. Luckily,

Growing Strong Brock Farms now grows nursery products across farms in Freehold, Smithburg, Deerfield, Bridgeton, and Colts Neck, where Eddie Brock, Jr. has lived his whole life.

“I love that town,” said the New Jersey native. “Honestly, I love the county and the state. We have everything to offer here.”

Brock, Jr. grew up seeing his fa-

52

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

my sister and I love it.”

Brock, Jr. credits his sister Linda for making the business a one-stop shop for homeware and garden items. “We try to find stuff that you don’t see in a normal mall or home goods store. It makes us stand out a little more,” he said.

Linda also built up Brock Farms’ Christmas selection. The Freehold

shop has a 40,000-square-foot holiday section full of trees, lights, lawn decorations, and festive decor.

“In everything we do, our selection is over the top,” said Brock, Jr. Selection & Service That commitment to an “over the top” selection doesn’t stop with the Christmas decor.

“Other people have two types of salvia. We have 25.

We have 50 types of eggplants,” said Brock, Jr. “That’s what we’re known for.”

Brock Farms guarantees its plants, “because we stand by them,” Brock, Jr. said. He’s careful to only sell what’s healthy and fresh, he said, ensuring each plant is in the correct container for its size and is thriving, from its roots to its flowers.

Along with its extensive collection of nursery items, houseplants, perennials, and annuals, Brock Farms offers other items and services for outdoor areas. Its pond selection ranges from live koi to aquatic plants to UV light systems. For a bit of decoration, Brock Farms has statues and fountains. Looking to make your backyard a haven for birds? Look through Brock Farms’ array of birdfeeders, birdbaths, and seed.

Beyond the merchandise, Brock, Jr. speaks with pride about the many generations of locals his family has employed over the years, often giving local kids their first jobs.

“People who worked here have gone on to become prosecutors. Another is a chief of police. But they all come back to me and say that working for me was the first job they had,” said Brock, Jr. “It instilled a sense of responsibility in them.”

Brock, Jr. says he emphasizes to his staff a brand of customer service that goes above and beyond what you’ll find at a typical store.

“I’m really trying to bring back the kind of store you would see on ‘Leave it to Beaver’ or ‘The Andy Griffith Show,’” said Brock, Jr. “We like to have something for everybody. We want people to leave with a smile.”

Brock Farms has two locations: 375 NJ-34, Colts Neck, and 4189 US-9, Freehold.

Go to brockfarms.com for more information.

MonmouthCommunity.com APRIL 2026

53

BIZBEAT

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

Drazin and Warshaw P.C. When negligence causes serious injury, the path forward can feel overwhelming. For more than 70 years, Drazin and Warshaw, P.C. has helped New Jersey victims and their families pursue justice and the compensation they deserve. Led by brothers Dennis, Ronald, and Brian Drazin, the firm continues the legacy of founder and renowned trial attorney Louis M. Drazin, with third-generation attorney Justin Drazin joined the team in 2019, carrying on the family’s longstanding commitment to serving clients. The team represents clients in cases involving motor vehicle accidents, medical malpractice, defective products, workplace injuries, and wrongful death. With decades of courtroom experience, skilled investigation, and deep medical insight, Drazin and Warshaw P.C. fights tirelessly to protect victims’ rights and hold negligent parties accountable. Offices are conveniently located in Red Bank, Hazlet, Brick, and Westfield.

For more information, call (732) 333-8141 or visit us at drazinandwarshaw.com.

Dr. Julie Molin: Whole-Body Wellness in Red Bank For more than 30 years, Dr. Julie Molin has cared for generations of families in Red Bank with thoughtful, personalized dentistry.

Last year, she and her team moved into their new “forever home” in the Courts of Red Bank, a space designed for comfort, technology, and patient wellbeing.

While offering comprehensive preventive, restorative, and orthodontic care, Dr. Molin believes oral health is deeply connected to overall wellness. Her practice now features advanced, FDA-approved technology that supports TMJ therapy and natural facial rejuvenation without needles, toxins, or downtime. At VIP Smiles by Dr. Julie Molin, dentistry supports whole-body health while helping patients feel confident and cared for.

Schedule your appointment today at our Red Bank, NJ office by calling (732) 741-8040 or visiting juliemolin.com.

LEAF

by Dr. Dana Spada PSYCHOTHERAPY COLTS NECK | LITTLE SILVER | HAZLET | SEA GIRT LEAF Psychotherapy is more than a therapy practice; it’s a place where transformation begins. We offer holistic, personalized therapy for adults, teens, and children, supporting clients through every stage of life. From individual and couples therapy to family work, every session is grounded in presence, connection, and purpose. Our serene, sanctuary-like spaces invite you to exhale and feel truly seen. Blending timeless therapeutic wisdom with innovative approaches, our clinicians bring skill, dedication, and heart to every interaction.

Whether you seek clarity, healing, or someone to walk beside you through life’s challenges, there is a therapist here for you. At LEAF, therapy is not only about feeling better—it’s about becoming more fully yourself.

Experience a Sense of Calm and Clarity

BOOK A SESSION TODAY!

732-947-4777 info@leafpsych.com www.leafpsych.com @LeafPsych

MonmouthCommunity.com APRIL 2026

55

Home Sweet Home Away Team Property Watch and Concierge Gives Homeowners Peace of Mind

BY EMMA SYLVIA

I

magine returning home from a tropical vacation to discover your attic air conditioning unit frozen solid—ice coating the exterior and water filling the drain pan. It sounds like a nightmare scenario for any homeowner, but it was nearly a reality for one New Jersey resident. Fortunately, the situation was caught before it turned into a major disaster, thanks to the watchful eye of Away Team Property Watch and Concierge.

Away Team monitors your home while you’re away, identifying potential issues before they become costly problems. For example, they can catch something like a malfunctioning AC unit before it freezes your home while you’re out of town.

Allison Francis, a Long Branch resident, is the co-owner of Away Team Monmouth along with her husband, Patrick. She explains what property watch is and how it has rapidly grown in popularity across Monmouth County in recent years.

Up, Up and Away In 2024, Allison and her husband became interested in the concept of home watch after being introduced to it by their now business partner, Kathleen Kuhn. She and her husband Mike own Away Team LBI. “As a Realtor and real estate investors ourselves, moving into property watch and home concierge services just made sense,” Allison explains. “It all ties back to protecting homes and giving homeowners the confidence to leave their property for an extended period knowing that we have everything handled in their absence.”

When you’re away from your property, any number of things can go wrong: plumb-

56

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

ing leaks, roof damage, HVAC system failures, or other issues that can quickly escalate if left unnoticed. Away Team identifies potential problems while homeowners are away and addresses them quickly and efficiently, saving time, stress, and money.

In March of 2025, Away Team relocated from Middlesex County to Monmouth County.

“We pivoted our focus to really lean into the second homes at the Jersey Shore,” Allison explains. “Some of our clientele may own multiple properties that they visit throughout the year, and they’re in New Jersey sprinkled throughout the seasons.”

With homes sometimes vacant for portions of the year, Away Team operates year-round, not just during the win-

ter season.

“We’ve found there’s more of a need for these services here because there are a lot of second homes right on the ocean,” Allison says. “The salt air and other coastal conditions can create issues. Even if the house is winterized, we’re still on the property doing checks and making sure there are boots on the ground when the homeowner can’t be there.”

As Away Team has grown in Monmouth County, Allison and Patrick have also developed a network of trusted local service providers.

“We’ve built our team of service providers that we work with in Monmouth County,” Allison explains. “We’re able to get issues solved quickly and refer trusted providers to our clients.”

In addition to vendor coordination,

Away Team offers a variety of home concierge services, including preparing the home for the homeowner’s return, grocery stocking, package management, and other personalized requests to make every arrival seamless.

A Smart Home Some clients have Away Team visiting their property as often as every week, performing a comprehensive visual inspection tailored to each home.

“If there’s anything we find in the home that is of concern,” Allison explains, “we include pictures, video, and an explanation of what we found in our property visit report. We stay in contact with the homeowner about any issues we come across so they know exactly what’s happening. Then we can step in and re-

MonmouthCommunity.com APRIL 2026

57

solve the issue on their behalf.”

Problem-solving is the heart of what Away Team does. The team can coordinate quotes and repairs for services like plumbing, HVAC, and more.

The last thing someone wants to face when returning home from a vacation or business trip is a surprise repair. Away Team can often have issues resolved before the homeowner even returns to their property.

Additionally, when a home issue becomes an insurance matter, the documentation provided by Away Team can offer protection that a friend or family member stopping by cannot provide.

Building Relationships After a year in Monmouth County, Away Team is excited to continue growing.

“Since we’ve been living here, my husband and I do a ton of networking, organically meet-

58

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

ing people and sharing information about our services,” Allison says. Word of mouth has become one of the biggest drivers of the company’s growth.

Meeting people and building relationships is central to Away Team’s mission.

“Homeowners want to work with somebody they know, like, and trust,” Allison explains.

“We’re really in the business of selling peace of mind and helping homeowners.”

“We love the Jersey Shore community. We love where we live, and we love helping homeowners know their home is in good hands. We take care of their homes the same way we would take care of our own.”

Learn More: Website: AwayTeamMonmouth.com Instagram: @awayteammonmouth Facebook: Away Team Monmouth Email: cnj@awayteamservices.com

Creative Arts Festival

Saturday, May 9 10:00 AM-4:00 PM

Thompson Park, Lincroft Spend the day perusing gorgeous fine artwork crafted by talented local artists, including pottery, jewelry, photography, and paintings, just to name a few.

Plus, enjoy live music from local bands, fun activities and demonstrations, and delicious food vendors.

Free Admission & Free Parking www.MonmouthCountyParks.com

MonmouthCommunity.com APRIL 2026

59

iPlay America

New Jersey’s Ultimate Indoor Destination for Family Fun

W

hen it comes to finding family-friendly entertainment in New Jersey, few places offer the variety and excitement of iPlay America in Freehold. This indoor amusement park combines the nostalgia of the Jersey Shore boardwalk with the energy of a lively city street, creating an immersive entertainment experience for visitors of all ages. With rides, games, attractions, and dining all under one roof, iPlay America has become a go-to destination for families looking to spend quality time together while enjoying nonstop fun.

Spanning nearly four acres of indoor space, iPlay America features a wide variety of attractions designed to keep guests entertained for hours.

Visitors can enjoy thrilling rides, go-karts, laser tag, virtual reality experiences, Topgolf Swing Suite, and more than 200 arcade games throughout the park. The vibrant indoor setting makes it an ideal destination year-round, whether families are escaping the heat of summer, looking for indoor activities during the winter months, or simply searching for a fun day out on the weekend.

Beyond rides and games, iPlay America also offers several dining options and entertainment experiences that allow families to turn a quick visit into a full day of fun. Parents can relax while kids explore the park’s attractions, and with so many different experiences available in one place, it’s easy to create a day that everyone in the family will enjoy.

One of the most popular reasons families visit iPlay America, however, is for its unforgettable birthday parties. Planning

60

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

a birthday celebration can often feel overwhelming for parents, but iPlay America takes the stress out of the process by handling all of the details.

Party planners help customize each event, while trained staff members manage the setup, activities, and clean-up so parents can focus on celebrating with their child.

Birthday party packages at iPlay America are designed to deliver an exciting and memorable experience for kids of all ages. Guests can enjoy access to rides and attractions, arcade games, laser tag, and more, depending on the selected package. Almost every celebration includes a private party space, a dedicated party host, food and refreshments, and special perks for the birthday child, such as game cards or prize tickets.

What truly sets iPlay America apart is the balance between fun and convenience. Instead of worrying about decorating, coordinating activities, or cleaning up after the celebration, parents can relax and enjoy the moment while kids explore the park with their friends. With customizable themes, exciting attractions, and a team focused on creating memorable experiences, birthday parties at iPlay America turn a special day into an unforgettable celebration.

Whether visiting for an afternoon of rides and games or hosting a milestone birthday celebration, iPlay America continues to be one of New Jersey’s most exciting destinations for family entertainment. iPlay America is located at 110 Schanck Rd., Freehold. For more information call 732-577-8200 or visit iplayamerica.com.

Warehouse 100 Networking Event Held at iPlay America

W

arehouse 100 in Freehold recently hosted an unforgettable evening in iPlay America’s premier venue and events center. Spanning more than 30,000 square feet, the space set the stage for a lively night of professional networking. Guests enjoyed curated cocktails, signature menu items, live entertainment, and a guided tour of Warehouse 100, as the venue welcomed business leaders and professionals from across Monmouth County for an evening of connection and community.

Coming up for The Bistro at iPlay America: • Sunday, April 12: Winnie the Pooh Character Brunch at The Bistro at iPlay America • Sunday, April 26: Mario & Friends Character Brunch at The Bistro at iPlay America • Sunday, May 3: Star Wars Character Brunch at The Bistro at iPlay America For more information visit www.TheBistroNJ.com/happenings.

MonmouthCommunity.com APRIL 2026

61

OA K HI L L A C AD E M Y

DISCOVER THE DIFFERENCE A PERSONALIZED APPROACH TO EDUCATION MAKES

OPEN HOUSE Grades PreK - 8 Friday, May 1 at 9 am Private Tours Available by Appointment Merit Scholarships & Tuition Assistance Available admissions@oakhillacademy.com 732-530-1343 ext. 205 www.OakHillAcademy.com

62

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

50 YEAR 50 YEAR CHURCH CHURCH ANNIVERSARY ANNIVERSARY

Join us as we celebrate 50 years of God’s faithfulness at Colts Neck Community Church in the Great Auditorium in Ocean Grove on May 17th, 2026. Following the 11AM service we will have food, fellowship and family fun!

Date MAY 17, 2026 Time 11:00AM The Great Auditorium 21 PILGRIM PATHWAY, OCEAN GROVE, NJ 07756 Sponsorship opportunities available www.coltsneckchurch.com SCAN QR CODE FOR MORE INFORMATION

REDEFINING THE CANNABIS EXPERIENCE

NOW DELIVERING! OPEN DAILY FROM 8AM - 10PM

WWW.VIGORDISPENSARY.COM 732-510-0400 1082 Route 34, Matawan, NJ 07747 New Jersey State License RE000448