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BOARDWALK & SUMMER EVENTS

GUIDE

A Shining Example Colts Neck’s Dino Nicoletta Blazes a Path as Both a Business Owner and Community Leader

PLUS: Three of the Tastiest Burgers in Monmouth County Monmouth County Fair Celebrates 50 Years of Family Fun Monmouth Nonprofit Brings Community to Those with Special Needs JULY 2025 Colts Neck • Holmdel

CONTENTS

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16 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF R YA N L O U G H L I N SALES DIRECTOR AND GENERAL MANAGER ROSEANNE SOFIA ASSOCIATE EDITOR E M M A S Y LV I A

ON THE COVER

MONTHLY GUIDE

Colts Neck’s Dino Nicoletta, Business Owner and Community Leader

Boardwalk & Summer Events Guide

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Local History and the Revolutionary War

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Three of the Best Burgers in Monmouth County

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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 AT T D O H E R T Y REBECC A KING L I L I A N N PA R A S DESIGN DIRECTOR DEBBIE MCKENNA PHOTOGRAPHERS JOHN ARCARA ANDREI JACK A ME T ANDRE A PHOX J O E LY P O W Y

Parent’s Corner

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

Monmouth County Fair Celebrates 50 Years

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Monmouth Nonprofit Brings Community to Those with Special Needs

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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.

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UNDER CONTRACT

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4 Sandra Court #2743, Old Bridge 2093 Crestwood Dr., Forked River Offered at $555,000 Offered at $469,000 — Represented Buyer —

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211 Schooner Circle, Neptune Presented at $859,000

36 Russel Avenue, Oceanport Offered at $1,199,999

3 Countryview Road, Holmdel Offered at $668,990

— Represented Buyer —

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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.

JULY EVENTS CALENDAR EVERYDAY TUESDAY (JULY 8, 15, 22, 29) Tuesdays on Broadway Visit Long Branch weekly for a night of arts and culture.

3rd Ave & Broadway, Long Branch 7pm - 8:30pm For more information, visit longbranch.org EVERY THURSDAY (JULY 3, 10, 17, 24, 31) Thursdays Rock Concert Series Head to Downtown Freehold for their annual Thursdays Rock Concert Series, a night of favorite local bands.

Hall of Records, 1 E Main St, Freehold 7:30pm - 9:30pm For more information, visit downtownfreehold.com EVERY FRIDAY (JULY 4, 11, 18, 25) Funky Fridays Gazebo Concert Series Go to Freehold every Friday night for a night of local artist performances.

Hall of Records, 1 E Main St, Freehold 7pm - 9pm For more information, visit downtownfreehold.com THURSDAY, JULY 3 Colts Neck Independence Day Celebration Celebrate Independence Day with the Colts Neck Community Band and CN ROTC Color Guard for a night with food, music and more.

Bucks Mill Park 147 Bucks Mill Rd, Colts Neck 6pm - 10pm For more information, visit coltsneckbusiness.org Big Bang Baby Bar Anticipation hosts live music with Big Bang Baby.

Bar Anticipation, 703 16th Ave, Lake Como 10pm - 1am For more information, visit bar-a.com FRIDAY, JULY 4 Oceanfest Celebrate Oceanfest in Long Branch, with a night of food, rides, sand sculpting, live music and the biggest fireworks display in NJ.

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Long Branch Promenade 1 Cooper Ave, Long Branch 1pm - 10pm For more information, visit longbranchchamber.org SATURDAY, JULY 5 Spring Lake Art Walk Walk down in Spring Lake for a self-guided tour of local artists and their work.

Main Shopping Area, Spring Lake 10am - 2pm For more information, visit springlakechamber.org SUNDAY, JULY 6 Classic Car Show & Oldies Day Take a drive down memory lane at this classic car show.

Monmouth Park 175 Oceanport Ave, Oceanport 11am - 5pm For more information, visit monmouthpark.com MONDAY, JULY 7 The E Street Shuffle A tribute To Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band — live in concert!

Pier Village Concert Series Promenade at Pier Village, Long Branch 7 pm THURSDAY, JULY 10 - SUNDAY JULY 20 Summer Shakespeare Ensemble Brookdale Performing Arts Center presents a summer of Shakespeare on their Lincroft campus.

Brookdale Performing Arts Center 765 Newman Springs Rd, Lincroft For more information, visit brookdalecc.edu SATURDAY, JULY 12 Christmas in July Santa Paddle Grab your paddle board and best Santa outfit for a paddle day on Spring Lake.

Spring Lake, Spring Lake 10am - 11:30am For more information, visit visitspringlake.com

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

SUNDAY, JULY 13 Bands on the Sand Head down to Long Branch for a free concert series on the beach.

West End Beach, 1 West End, Long Branch 7pm - 8:30pm For more information, visit longbranch.org 3rd Annual Highlands Pride Fest in the Park Celebrate Pride in July with a day of live music, vendors and a wine and beer garden.

Huddy Park, 329 Bay Ave, Highlands 2pm - 8pm For more information, visit facebook.com/HighlandsNJ SATURDAY, JULY 19 Arts and Crafts Fair There are more vendors than ever at the 51st Atlantic Highlands Arts and Crafts Fair.

Veterans Park 51 Bay Ave, Atlantic Highlands 10am - 4pm For more information, visit ahhistory.org WEDNESDAY, JULY 23 - SUNDAY, JULY 27 Monmouth County Fair Head down to Freehold for a county-wide event with exhibits, rides, fireworks, garden competitions and more entertainment.

East Freehold Showgrounds 1500 Kozloski Rd, Freehold For more information, visit monmouthcountyparks.com SATURDAY, JULY 26 Navesink 4 Mile Run - 2 Mile walk Stay fit at the end of July with a Run/Walk hosted by the Jersey Shore Running Club.

Jersey Shore Running Club 120 Market St, Red Bank 8:30am - 10am For more information, visit runsignup.com/ Race/NJ/Middletown/Navesink4 SATURDAY, JULY 26 - SUNDAY, JULY 27 Italian Festival & Wine Taste Enjoy a classic Italian summer on the Shore with great wine and food.

Monmouth Park 175 Oceanport Ave, Oceanport 11am - 5pm For more information, visit monmouthpark.com

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

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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,

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.

Expertise

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

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.

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM 89 Highway 35 North • Eatontown, NJ • (732) 389-8175

PrecisionShowerDoors.com

Local History

Captain Joshua Huddy — a Monmouth County Folk Hero of Revolutionary War Time

BY WILLIAM GARDELL, MA

C

aptain Joshua Huddy was a patriot who served during the American Revolution and participated in battles and events in Monmouth County and elsewhere. Born in Salem County, NJ to a Quaker family in 1735, Huddy moved to Colts Neck after his second marriage to a widow named Catherine Applegate Hart. Together they operated the Colts Neck Inn, which still stands to this day. Huddy was not the typical Quaker. He was known to enjoy his drink, was quick to fight and was expelled from the Quakers “Community of Friends”. As the American Revolution came to New Jersey, Huddy quickly distinguished himself as a capable soldier and leader of men. He served as an officer in the Monmouth County Militia as an artilleryman. He would participate in several battles throughout the war, including Germantown in Pennsylvania in 1777 and the Battle of Monmouth which took place in Freehold, on June 28, 1778. It was at Monmouth that Washington’s Continental Army made its first successful stand against British regulars in the traditional European style of fighting.

He also served as a privateer — essentially a pirate authorized to commit piracy against the enemy in wartime. He captained the Black Snake, a14-man whaling boat with a single cannon.

In addition to raiding British shipping and generally being a thorn in the side of the British forces Joshu or “Jack” Huddy as he was known, also took part in some controversial exploits. He participated in the hanging of Philip White, the adult son of a wealthy Freehold Farmer and supporter of the British Crown. He also helped capture and execute a man named Stephen Edwards of Shrewsbury in 1777. Edwards was accused of serving as a spy for the British. These men were hanged without proper trial, and this would come back to haunt Huddy.

In September of 1780, Huddy was at his home in Colts Neck when it was attacked by a group of Loyalists led by Colonel Titus Tye. Tye was an African American slave from Monmouth County who escaped and joined Lord Dunmore’s Ethiopian Regiment, a unit made up of slaves who would serve the British cause in exchange for their freedom. Tye’s men surrounded the house, but Huddy fought back, moving from window to window firing multiple muskets, attempting to make it seem like he had other men helping him. In fact, he was only aided by his servant, a woman named Lucretia Emmons. Tye’s men set fire to the building and Huddy agreed to surrender if they let his servant go and they extinguished the flames. They agreed and Huddy was taken prisoner. En route back to Sandy Hook via the Shrewsbury River in canoes, Tye’s men were ambushed

by Monmouth Militiamen and Huddy jumped out of a canoe and swam to safety. Huddy suffered a bullet wound to his thigh but survived. Col. Tye was wounded in the wrist and died of his wound soon afterwards.

However, fate would catch up with Huddy, as he would be captured by the British a second time in 1782, this time while commanding the defense of the Blockhouse or small fort in Toms River. His 25 men were forced to surrender to 80 British troops. Huddy would be brought to a spot by Loyalists in what is now Highlands on April 12 1782. He was executed by the friends of Philp White and Stephen Edwards in the same fashion as Huddy executed them. Captain Huddy was a folk hero even in his own lifetime in Monmouth County and is still remembered as such to this day.

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A Shining Example Colts Neck’s Dino Nicoletta blazes a path as both a business owner and community leader

BY WILLIAM CLARK / PHOTOS BY ANDREA PHOX

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ino Nicoletta is not only passionate about the community he lives in but about community as a concept.

The Brooklyn native turned Colts Neck resident is President of the Colts Neck Business Association and fell in love with the bucolic nature of the township after he moved to the Garden State. But when he is not out enjoying the simple pleasures of his adopted hometown, Nicoletta spends his time deep in the suds at his own business, the Asbury Circle Car Wash in Neptune, making sure every customer drives away with a sparkling vehicle and a smile on their face.

As the President of the CNBA, Nicoletta helps provide opportunities for business owners and others in the industry to gather and connect with one another in order to grow their networks. Monthly meetings allow the members of the CNBA to catch up and find connections. Businesses may be competitive, but the community allows them to lift each other up. In turn, the benefits that members find personally and professionally from the organization create opportunities for families and friends to engage in experiences of all types. But it’s not all business. In fact CNBA hosts a popular polo match each September, a fitting tradition for a town with the makeup of Colts Neck.

“It’s an old school thing that was done in Colts Neck years ago and then we brought it back because it’s an equestrian town,” Nicoletta said.

Each summer they sponsor a fireworks show during Fourth of July celebrations, bringing another long tradition back after several dormant years.

“It’s really incredible when we’ll have almost three thousand cars parked in Bucks Mill,” Nicoletta said. “It’s a free event to the community, but we have had to start charging for parking because the cost has skyrocketed.”

The fireworks are paid for by sponsorship money from businesses within town that want to support an event that will provide lasting memories for local families.

The CNBA also works with the township itself to produce concerts in the park. Nicoletta said the organization tapped Brian Kirk and the Jirks and footed the bill so that the concert would be a draw for residents.

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

“We decided to get a popular band so that people could come out of the house and listen to some music and have a good time,” Nicoletta said.

Typical meetings are varied. Networking, exchanging of business cards, discussions of finances and upcoming events all take place. Like any business, the perfunctory is an important foundation so that the extraordinary can take place.

Business owners, employees, and members of other organizations are welcome to attend. Nicoletta said no one industry dominates the meetings. Real estate, finance and insurance are represented, but the CNBA will welcome any industry.

“We have all walks of life. You don’t have to be a business owner. It’s open to business people,” he said.

Those hoping to start a business or find themselves in times of uncertainty regarding their career path are taken in. Through connections made, neophytes can learn from people with years of knowledge.

Nicoletta said one program that is up and coming is the connection with the Earle Naval Base. During a conversation with an officer, Nicoletta said that he was informed that service members were looking to secure employment after their commitments to the military were up.

“These people are looking for work or looking to start something and one of our business owners will typically grab them and say, ‘Come with me. I’ll show you the ropes’,” he said.

No formal structure has been set up so far, but the wheels have been moving to provide more mentors to soon-to-be veterans.

One young man asked Nicoletta about the car wash industry.

He extended an offer to shadow him through a day, which Nicoletta said could be 10 to 12 hours long. The tough truth was that there’s no shortcut to success and a significant amount of upfront investment is needed, but that candor helped inform the young man of what he could expect.

Wax on, wax off Nicoletta has been around cars his entire life. Starting in his father’s mechanic shop in Brooklyn, he first opened a car wash

MonmouthCommunity.com JULY 2025

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in Jersey City with a few partners before moving operations down the shore by himself.

“I loved the business,” he said. “I was very successful with that first one.”

Even now, Nicoletta states that his success is in part because he doesn’t forget the smaller parts of the operation. It’s a piece of advice he would give anyone who asked during a CNBA meeting. He may have an office and more responsibility, but he wants to be out there greeting customers, running the equipment, washing the towels and overseeing the point of sale. For Nicoletta, improving his business is impossible if he isn’t experiencing it firsthand himself.

“You have to know what your employees are doing,” he said. “You have to experience what you pay employees for,” he said.

Nicoletta points back to his first car wash. He and the partners didn’t start it from scratch. They scraped together the money and took over an existing operation. Soon he learned that there was more to running the business than just water and soap. Like anyone else starting out, he began his journey simply greeting customers. He was both leading by example and becoming aware of the specifics of the day-to-day operations. If something needed to be changed, he understood better than he would if an employee had come into the office and told him.

“When you fix their issues, your business grows faster,” he said. “You can see where the inefficiencies are since you are working with them side by side.”

That keeps employees happy and productive.

The universal truth to it, he says, is that it goes for anybody who would ask him for advice during a CNBA event.

“You have to know exactly what’s happening underneath you,” he said.

A mentor of sorts Nicoletta has fostered the burgeoning careers of the young people that have worked for him. Emboldened by the industriousness that he shows in his own work, several former employees of Nicoletta have gone on to have valuable careers both in the car wash industry and outside.

“This is a steppingstone job,” he said. “They’re just coming out of either graduating high school or college and

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they are here for a year or so to get their feet wet. I’ve seen a couple of guys grow up and get a good job.”

Nicoletta spoke about a young man that came from a halfway house. A former drug addict, Nicoletta hired him and guided him to a life away from devastating decisions. The young man attended school to learn the HVAC trade and now operates a business himself.

“That made me happy to see,” he said.

“You see kids grow up and make something of themselves, which is very nice.”

His time acting as mentor to oth-

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ers extends to his two sons as well. His oldest, now 19, helps Dad out with the family business, but Nicoletta doesn’t pressure him to take up the mantle.

“He can come in anytime, but I’d rather see him do something else first,” he said.

Regardless of what path his kids choose; they can take some simple but imperative lessons from their father’s work ethic.

“You have to take care of your customers, give them what they expect and go above and beyond.”

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

Teacher Feature

FIRST RESPONDERS

Q&A

Name: Scott Cascone Title: Superintendent Place of Employment: Holmdel Town of Residency: West Orange Q: What do you love about your job, and what keeps you coming back each day?

A: As the superintendent, what keeps me coming back each day is knowing that through my efforts, I am playing a part in creating a safe and supportive environment where both students and staff can be at their best.

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

A: The most challenging thing about working with kids is ensuring that we meet each student where they are and structure the school and classroom environment to align with their learning styles. This premise of differentiation is a hallmark of 21st-century education but requires the utmost skill and focus.

Q: What was your own school experience like as a kid?

Did you enjoy school?

A: By and large, I enjoyed my schooling experience as a child. However, at that time, the educational system was not nearly as focused on meeting the individualized needs and interests of students or challenging them. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the humanities and world languages, working collaboratively with my classmates, and demonstrating my knowledge to my teachers.

Q: If you could add one new subject that every kid would have to take in school, what would it be and why?

A: The subject I think every student should take in school is computer science and coding. Regardless of the profession a student ultimately chooses, being fluent in a programming language will facilitate their success and marketability.

Q: What is the most important thing that the students have taught you?

A: The most important thing that students have taught me is that their voice matters. Including them in the planning and implementation of initiatives is integral to their success.

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

Name: Eric Hernando Title: Emergency Mgmt. Coordinator Place of Employment: Holmdel Town of Residency: Holmdel Q: What initially made you want to be a first responder A: When I graduated from Holmdel High School in 1987, I had a friend that was a member of the Holmdel First Aid Squad. He convinced me to join and attend EMT school. When I began responding to emergencies, I knew that being a first responder was my calling. Through the first aid squad, I met officers from the Holmdel Police Department, who suggested that I become a Police Officer.

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

A: The biggest thing is knowing that I was able to help somebody in their time of need. Otherwise, it’s all the amazing friendships and bonds formed with other officers. It’s a truly special camaraderie.

Q: What is the hardest aspect of the job?

A: The hardest part of the job was high stress and pressure. Police work is inherently stressful, requiring quick decision making in high pressure environments. It was also sometimes difficult responding to situations involving violence, death and serious injury.

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

A: No, not really.

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

A: My most memorable experiences involved the arrests and successful prosecutions of offenders that committed murder or other violent crimes. It was a great feeling to tell victims and/or their families that justice was served.

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BOA R DWA LK & S U MME R E VE N TS G U ID E

Hot Spots to Make Your Summer Stupendous!

BY EMMA SYLVIA AND BEN MILLER

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veryone knows that nothing beats summer down the shore. Residents from across the state – and even the tristate area – flock to Monmouth County to spend a day at the beach, peruse the seasonal fairground, and soak in the rays while secretly wondering if Bruce might show up. But should you find yourself looking for a few fun things to check out between now and Labor Day, here’s a list of things that you have to look forward to this summer…

Oceanfest The Fourth of July this year has no shortage of festivities occurring up and down the shore. You can head down to the Long Branch promenade on July 4th, 1pm - 10pm for live music, family-friendly activities and fireworks after dark.

Learn more at longbranch.org Monmouth County Fair A county-wide event that’s perfect for all ages, the Monmouth County Fair celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2025.

Monmouth residents and visitors alike can flock to the East Freehold Showgrounds at 1500 Kozloski Road in Freehold Wednesday - Sunday, July 23-27. There will be free entertainment, from stunts and live music, to pro wrestling, wildlife, vendors, historical exhibits – and much more.

Learn more at monmouthcountyparks.com Belmar Sandcastle Contest Nothing says “summer” like getting crafty at the beach.

Competitors will gather on Wednesday, July 16, at the beach between 17th and 19th avenues in Belmar for the annual Sandcastle Contest. Divided into different age groups, judges will evaluate each contestant for their originality, creativity, resourcefulness and use of accessories.

Learn more at vacationinbelmar.com

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

Downtown Freehold events Freehold may be a few miles from the beach, but it is still thriving this summer. And in downtown Freehold events, parades, festivals and concerts are frequent throughout the season.

“We’re super excited for our summer events schedule. The public has a lot of events to look forward to, from our Summer Rocks concert series to our farmers market and all of our gazebo events,” says Jeffrey Friedman, Director of Downtown Freehold. “As always in Downtown Freehold, there’s always so much going on, and we hope people have a great time.”

Learn more at downtownfreehold.com Manasquan Fireman’s Fair From Tuesday to Saturday, July 29 - August 2, Manasquan residents and beyond will enjoy the 2025 Fireman’s Fair, partaking in an annual tradition of rides, games, food, beer gardens, and a $25,000 super 50/50 raffle.

Learn more at squanfiremansfair.com Belmar Friday Night Concert Series Belmar’s Friday Night Concert series returns to its downtown for summer 2025. Attendees can enjoy music every Friday through August 29. Admission is free – just bring your own lawn chair, refreshments, and sit back and relax to some of NJ’s best local talent.

Learn more at vacationinbelmar.com Whale Watching in Highlands It’s easy to take the beauty of the ocean for granted when you live just a short drive away. This summer be sure and get out on the water with friends and family to get a chance to see some of the most magnificent creatures in the North Atlantic.

Learn more at seastreak.com

BOA R DWA LK & S U MME R E VE N TS G U ID E Historic Longstreet Farm From Memorial Day to Labor Day, enjoy extended hours at Holmdel’s Historic Longstreet Farm. The space has been transformed to transport visitors back to the 1890s, to witness an accurate representation of daily activities from the 19th century. The farm features a plethora of free events throughout the summer, sure to please any history fan.

Learn more at monmouthcountyparks.com

alike. This summer, head down to their 2025 Concerts and Events series, with some of the best local talent around.

Featuring Bands by the Beach, Bands on the Sand, Thursdays by the Sea, and Tuesdays on Broadway, there’s sure to be a sound for everyone.

Staff pick: Stop in on Monday, July 7, to catch Asbury Park’s own Springsteen tribute The E Street Shuffle perform a live concert at 7 p.m.

Learn more at longbranch.org

Pier Village Concert Series Pier Village is always one of the premier places to visit for tourists and locals

New Asbury Park Boardwalk Businesses Asbury Park is one of the most vis-

ited towns in Monmouth County – and for good reason. Whether you’re downtown or on the boardwalk, there’s always a plethora of shopping and sights to experience. This summer, the boardwalk welcomes a swathe of unique new businesses for you to check out: • • • • • •

Mutiny Beach (not to be confused with their downtown location, Mutiny BBQ) It’s Taffy Palmetto Restaurant Promised Land Sweet Tooth Unwind Records + Comics

Heading to the beach? You’ll need a badge for that.

Here’s what it’ll cost you to get your toes in the sand this summer.

Allenhurst Daily (Weekdays): $12 Weekends & Holidays: $15 Daily (Children / 12 & under): Free Parking: free street parking Asbury Park Daily (Weekdays): $7 Weekends & Holidays: $10 Seasonal (Adult): $70 Seasonal (Senior / 62+): $20 Seasonal (Teen / 13-17) +$20 Seasonal (Military & Veterans): Free Seasonal (Children / 12 & under): Free Parking: metered lot and street parking Avon-by-the-Sea Daily: $12 Seasonal (Adult): $100 Seasonal (Senior / 65+): $55 Seasonal (Youth / 12-18): $55 Seasonal (Children / 11 & under): Free Parking: free street parking

Seasonal (Youth / 13-15): $35 Seasonal (Children / 12 & under): Free Seasonal (Active-duty Personnel): Free Parking: Metered street parking & free parking Deal Daily (Weekdays): $12 Weekends & Holidays: $15 Seasonal: $200 Parking: permit parking & free street parking Loch Arbour Daily (Mon – Thurs): $10 Fridays, Weekends, & Holidays: $15 Seasonal (Adult): $150 Seasonal (Senior): $100 Long Branch Daily (Weekdays): $6 Daily (Weekdays / ages 14-17): $3 Weekends & Holidays: $9 Seasonal (Adults): $70 Seasonal (Senior / 62+): Free Seasonal (Children / 13 & under): Free Seasonal: Active Military: Free Parking: Metered street parking & free parking

Belmar Daily: $12 Seasonal (Adult): $80 Seasonal (Senior / 65+): $32 Seasonal (Children / 13 & under): Free Parking: Metered street parking & free parking

Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park, Long Branch Daily: $10 Seasonal (Adult): $75 Seasonal (Senior / 65+): $30 Seasonal (Military & Veterans): Free Parking: $10 / vehicle; $25 / bus

Bradley Beach Daily: $12 Seasonal (Adult): $90 Seasonal (Senior): $35

Manasquan Daily: $12 Weekly: $50 Seasonal (Adults): $90

Seasonal (Youth / 12-16): $45 Seasonal (Seniors / 65+): $35 Seasonal (Children / 11 & under): Free Seasonal (Military / Veterans): Free Parking: street Ocean Grove Daily: $13 Seasonal (Adult): $100 Seasonal (Youth / 12-17): $52 Seasonal (Senior / 65+): $52 Seasonal (Children / 11 & under): Free Parking: Free and metered street parking Sandy Hook Daily: $20 (per vehicle) Seasonal: $100 (per vehicle) Parking: Free throughout park Sea Bright Daily: $8 Seasonal (Adult): $100 Seasonal (Senior): $35 Parking: metered lot and street parking Sea Girt Daily: $12 Seasonal (Adult): $115 Seasonal (Senior): $115 Seasonal (Children / 12 & under): Free Seasonal (Active Military): Free Parking: Free street parking Spring Lake Daily: $110 Seasonal (Seniors): $80 Seasonal (Active Military): Free Parking: Free street parking

MonmouthCommunity.com JULY 2025

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BOA R DWA LK & S U MME R E VE N TS G U ID E

The Lights Go Down on Summer Nights at the Count Basie

T

Live from Exit 116

he lawn’s about to get packed as another summer of concerts returns to the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel. Here are our picks for some must-see performances for the months of July and August.

Thomas Rhett: Better In Boots Tour, July 10 Don’t miss Thomas Rhett live July 10th—get your boots on for a night of chart-topping country hits and unforgettable summer energy!

Toto, Men At Work and Christopher Cross, July 25 Experience a legendary night of rock and ’80s nostalgia with Toto, Men At Work, and Christopher Cross on July 25. Secure your tickets now!

Goo Goo Dolls and Dashboard Confessional, Aug. 1 Catch Goo Goo Dolls and Dashboard Confessional on August 1st for a night of iconic alt-rock and emo anthems.

Don’t miss this unforgettable show!

The Doobie Brothers, Aug. 7 Jam out with The Doobie Brothers on August 7! Enjoy timeless hits and legendary harmonies live under the summer sky.

James Taylor, Aug. 30 Spend an evening with James Taylor on August 30 and experience the magic of his timeless songs live. Reserve your seat now for a night to remember.

FULL LINEUP: • Thomas Rhett: Better In Boots Tour, July 10 • Kidz Bop Live: Certified Bop Tour, July 12 • Styx and Kevin Cronin and Don Felder, July 20 • Big Time Rush: In Real Life Worldwide, July 22 • Summer of Loud with Parkway Drive, Killswitch Engage, I Prevail, Beartooth, July 24 • Toto, Men At Work and Christopher Cross, July 25 • Nelly with Ja Rule and Eve, July 26 • Pantera, July 31 • Goo Goo Dolls and Dashboard Confessional, Aug. 1 • The Offspring, Aug. 2 • The Doobie Brothers, Aug. 7 • Volbeat, Aug. 10 • Dierks Bentley: Broken Branches Tour, Aug. 15 • Steve Miller Band, Aug. 26 • Coheed and Cambria and Taking Back Sunday, Aug. 29 • James Taylor, Aug. 30 • Wille Nelson’s “Outlaw Music Festival” with Bob Dylan, Sheryl Crow, Sept. 13 18

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

R

ed Bank’s Count Basie Center for the Arts has put together a diverse and entertaining summertime lineup with over 25 shows at both venues during July and August. Between comedians, rock and roll bands, and a musical there is something for everyone this summer.

Here are a few of our faves: Dawes, the American folk-rock band from Los Angeles, brings their “Oh My Brother Tour” to Red Bank on July 11. The band’s powerful live performance will be one not to miss.

During the first 3 days of August, Phoenix Productions, a theater company based out of Count Basie Center for the Arts, puts on their rendition of “Legally Blonde: The Musical”.

This high-energy, feel-good show will be a hilarious and fun night out for all.

“Saturday Night Live” star and host of Weekend Update Colin Jost takes the stage for a night of sharp and biting wit on August 7.

FULL SCHEDULE: • Todd Rudgren: STILL ME (STILL WE), July 2 • Diana Krall, July 5 • Graham Nash, July 8 • David Cross, July 11 • Dawes: Oh Brother Tour, July 11 • Sam Morril: The Errors Tour, July 12 • Buddy Guy: Damn Right Encore, July 14 • Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, July 16 • Dave Koz and Friends, July 17 • Jimmy Dore, July 18 • The Moody Blues’ John Lodge, July 19 • Satsang, July 23 • Emily Compagno: live 2025 Book Tour, July 24 • Lisa Sherman’s Disco Connection, July 25 • Femi Kuti & The Positive Force, July 26 • Chris Pinnella, July 27 • Enjoy Every Sandwich: The Music of Warren Zevon, Aug 1 • Phoenix Productions Presents: Legally Blode: The Musical, Aug 1-3 • Colin Jost: Aug 7 • Esperanza Spalding, Aug 8 • Twin Peaks: A Conversation with the Stars, Aug 9 • The Weight Band, Aug 9 • Straight to Hell: The Clash Tribute, Aug 15 • Yacht Rock Gold Experience, Aug 16 • Michael Franks, Aug 23 • Anthony Rodia: Laugh Til it Hurts Tour, Aug 23 • Tinsley Ellis, Aug 24 • Alan Cummung; Uncut, Aug 27 • UpDating, Aug 29

BOA R DWA LK & S U MME R E VE N TS G U ID E

Bored? Hit the Boards!

S

o it’s the heart of the summer, and you are looking to indulge in the kind of seaside fun that can only be had right here at the Jersey Shore?

Whether it’s the rides, the slides, the games, the funnel cakes or a simple peaceful trek down the boards to take in the sights, sounds and smells, here’s a list of some of our favorite boardwalks to spend a few hours at (and what you’ll find at each).

Long Branch: Long Branch’s boardwalk and pavilion is built around its centerpiece, Pier Village, a modern, multi-use space housing everything from oceanfront apartments and The Wave hotel to surf shops, pizzerias, bookstores, both casual and high-end dining options and so much more.

Asbury Park: Years ago, Asbury Park’s boardwalk was a fairly traditional mix of bumper cars and tilt-a-whirls, all accented by a not-so-typical backdrop which featured the jaw dropping architecture of the Carousel House, Convention Hall and the Casino. While the rides may have been torn down long ago, the rebirth of Asbury Park has brought with it a more grown-up board-

walk, which now features a collection of trendy restaurants and shops alongside classic options like giant pizza slices at Maruca’s and foot-long hot dogs at Mayfair. The Silverball Pinball Museum tips its cap heavily to your favorite arcades of the ’70s and ’80s, while the splash park gives the kiddos a place to run wet and wild on a hot summer day.

Ocean Grove: The boards are not made of actual wood on Ocean Grove’s boardwalk, which makes them both more durable and easier to walk on. Note: the town’s constructed pier sustained damage during a recent storm, which has limited access to it temporarily.

Bradley Beach: Mostly boards, save for the occasional food truck or mini golf course, Bradley Beach is very much a local’s town – with a local’s boardwalk. What does that mean?

Well, let’s just say you have virtually no chance of bumping into any member of the cast of “Jersey Shore” here, and that is one of the best things about it.

Avon-By-The-Sea: Nothing but gorgeous sand and sea to look at on this short stretch that runs through

the length of this short (but beautiful) beach town. A great place to go for a quick and picturesque jog without a ton of crowds in your way.

Belmar: Gorgeous direct views of the ocean that are visible both from the boardwalk and Ocean Avenue thanks to the lack of any dunes on Belmar’s beach. Unlike many boardwalks, the shops, bars and restaurants are mostly located across the street, giving Belmar’s boardwalk a clean and unobstructed vibe, perfect for exercising or just casually moseying down.

Point Pleasant: A magnet for almost anyone who visits the Jersey Shore on vacation, Point Pleasant’s boardwalk checks just about every box there is, with everything from classic midway and kiddie rides to arcades, mini golf courses, iconic bars like Jenk’s and Martell’s Tiki Bar as well as plenty of spots to grab a Kohr’s custard. This is the fabric of childhood memories and even if you have been a thousand times or roll your eyes at the tourists, it’s worth the trip every single time.

MonmouthCommunity.com JULY 2025

19

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Summer Sizzlers Taking a big bite out of three of the tastiest burgers in Monmouth County

BY RYAN LOUGHLIN

I The Patty Melt, Bond Street Bar

t’s officially summer, and firing up a charcoal grill and loading it with burgers is without a doubt an absolute must-do at every given opportunity. That said, there will be days when the backyard BBQ method is simply not possible, nor practical, yet your burger craving will persist nonetheless. The solution is obviously to head to a local dining establishment and let the chef handle the grill sergeant duties for the moment.

But you don’t want to end up eating just any burger, you want a great burger, a fabulous burger, maybe even THE BEST burger. And I’m here to steer you down the right path. Here are my picks for three of the tastiest burgers in all of Monmouth County.

1. The Patty Melt, Bond Street Bar — Bond Street Bar oozes Asbury hipster cool vibes so forwardly that they can easily be picked up on from a block away or more. But don’t let that scare you away, as this is easily one of the best bars in town. Look for the sign with the giant eye on it and head in. Order up a beer and a shot and the Patty Melt — a fabulous take on this much-loved classic that feels like a tightrope walk between a burger and a grilled cheese sandwich. Two slices of the bread of your choice (go with the sourdough) get griddled in butter and serve as the walls containing a burger patty topped with bacon, fried onions and melted American cheese. It all melds together like the kind of dream you’ll never want to wake up from.

Bond Street Bar is located at 208 Bond St. in Asbury Park. Go to BondStreetAP.com Bistro Burger, The Bistro at Red Bank

Burger, Mabel

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

2. Bistro Burger, The Bistro at Red Bank — While I may never forgive them for retiring their fabulous sushi menu (seriously, it was the best in the state), The Bistro still manages to knock it out of the park every time I visit with an eclectic Mediterranean-slanted menu that nails everything from Rigatoni Sausage Bolognese to Saganaki. I have been visiting this spot for more than a decade, and despite them boasting an array of other tempting dishes, the Bistro Burger has been a must-order more times than I can count. The impressively thick patty is almost always cooked perfectly (I’m a stickler for medium-rare) and it pairs fabulously with the sharp cheddar cheese that comes whimsically melted upside down on the bun and the layers of lettuce, tomato and crispy onions that round things out.

The Bistro at Red Bank is located at 14 Broad St. in Red Bank. Go to TheBistroAtRedBank.com.

3. Burger, Mabel — The first sit down restaurant at Bell Works in Holmdel, Mabel has been wowing guests since opening last year. They won’t be winning any awards for creative titling with their simply monikered “Burger,” but whatever they lack in snappy naming, they more than make up for in sheer deliciousness with this one. A gorgeously sesame seeded bun holds together a custom-blend 8-ounce beef patty that gets dressed tastefully with sharp cheddar, red onion, pickles, gem lettuce and a tangy aioli that brings it all together. Add in the side of particularly addictive fries and a winner is born.

Mabel is located at 101 Crawfords Corner Rd. in Holmdel. Go to MabelAtBell.com.

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BIZBEAT

BY RYAN LOUGHLIN

A roundup of new things happening at Monmouth County businesses.

Canopy Crossroad unveils new mural in Red Bank

Canopy Crossroad, a women-owned, locally operated, independent cannabis dispensary, recently unveiled a new mural on the side of its store in Red Bank. Created by local artist Michael White and partially funded through the Red Bank RiverCenter’s dedicated mural program, the artwork was officially revealed during a public event on Wednesday, May 28.

Canopy Crossroad’s mural is the latest project supported by the Red Bank RiverCenter’s mural program, which provides public art installations throughout the downtown district. The vibrant composition features a canopy of trees — a nod to the dispensary’s name and a visual metaphor for its mission to create a safe, welcoming space for those looking to explore natural health and wellness remedies.

“We’ve always envisioned the West Front Street-facing wall

of the building as a canvas for something beautiful and meaningful,” said Caryn Cohen, co-founding partner of Canopy Crossroad. “This piece is an opportunity to help beautify the town we call home and was inspired by our commitment to natural healing and our love for the Red Bank Art and Entertainment Community.”

Visitors are invited to stop by and take in the beauty of the mural up close, before heading into the dispensary!

Canopy Crossroad is located at 9 West St. in Red Bank. For more info, go to CanopyCrossroad.com

Cheessteaks opens up shop in Belmar

As if Belmar Plaza wasn’t enough of an incredible foodie destination already, this local strip mall just got a big boost in the form of Cheessteaks (yes, that’s how they spell it for some reason), which has taken the space of the former Sonny’s Grill.

Cheessteaks is the second location for Antonio Delgado and James Haines, a pair of high school friends who opened their first shop in Camden County to rave reviews and have now branched out to the Jersey Shore. Cheessteaks specializes in (you guessed it) cheesesteaks as well as six varieties of wings and a selection of loaded fries to make your mouth water.

Cheessteaks is located at 821 Belmar Plaza in Belmar. For more info, go to Cheessteaks.com

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

HEALTH CORNER

July is

Umbilical Cord Blood

AWARENESS MONTH

BY MAIA FRANCO

E

very July, Cord Blood Awareness Month sheds light on a unique and potentially life-saving resource—umbilical cord blood. Once considered medical waste, cord blood is now known to be rich in hematopoietic stem cells—the building blocks of our blood and immune systems. These powerful cells can treat many serious diseases, and ongoing research continues to reveal new therapeutic possibilities. More and more families are choosing to store this resource for personal and public use.

What Is Cord Blood?

Cord blood is the blood that remains in a baby’s umbilical cord and placenta after birth. It’s rich in stem cells that can develop into various types of blood cells and help regenerate the immune system.

Unlike embryonic stem cells, cord blood collection is painless, safe, and poses no risk to the baby or mother.

Medical Uses of Cord Blood Cord blood stem cells are already used to treat a variety of life-threatening conditions, including: • Leukemia and lymphomas • Sickle cell anemia • Aplastic anemia • Inherited immune system disorders • Metabolic disorders

In many cases, cord blood transplants offer an alternative to bone marrow transplants — often with fewer complications and a higher tolerance for mismatched donor cells.

Emerging Therapies Beyond current uses, cord blood stem cells are at the forefront of clinical research in regenerative medicine.

Scientists are exploring treatments for conditions like: • Cerebral palsy • Autism • Type 1 diabetes • Stroke recovery • Heart disease • Spinal cord injuries While these treatments are still investigational, early results are promising, fueling interest in preserving cord blood for possible future therapies.

Why Store Your Child’s Cord Blood?

1. A Lifeline for Your Family: Stored cord blood can potentially be used for your child, their siblings, or other close family members. It’s a form of insurance—something you hope never to need, but could be invaluable in the event of a medical crisis.

2. Quick Access in Emergencies: Having cord blood readily available in a private bank means faster treatment if a transplant is ever needed, avoiding the long search for a compatible donor.

3. Ethically Sound and Painless: Unlike some other stem cell sources, cord blood collection is non-invasive and ethically non-controversial.

Public vs. Private Storage Public Cord Blood Banking: Donating to a public bank makes the stem cells available to anyone in need and contributes to research. It’s free, but you won’t have access to the sample for personal use. Cords for Life offers mail-in collection for umbilical blood samples.

Private Cord Blood Banking: For a fee, your child’s cord blood is stored exclusively for your family. This option ensures access but may not be necessary for every family depending on medical history and financial considerations. Atlantic Health hospitals offer blood collection and transportation for private blood banking.

Learn about your options and make an informed decision. Storing your child’s cord blood may never be needed—but if it is, it is an invaluable resource to have!

MonmouthCommunity.com JULY 2025

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Bugging Out!

Monmouth Exterminator Talks the Ins and Outs of Pest Control

BY EMMA SYLVIA / PHOTOS BY ANDREA PHOX

D

ean White grew up, as many kids do, observing and lauding their parents for their career. White’s path was a bit more unique than others, however: He grew up in the extermination business. While some kids shy away from crawly critters, White helped his father’s business during the busy summer season, leading him to where he is today, the owner of Bee-Gone Termite & Pest Control in Middletown.

Originally from Staten Island, White and his family

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

moved to Lakewood when he was around 10 years old. After a time in the navy, White attended technical school, and found a career in IT. It was also through this that he met his wife and business partner, Doreen Fromage. Fromage, originally from the Bronx, met White while she worked for IBM, which was working with the New York Department of Education to install network infrastructure in the city, and White was hired on as a consultant for the Department. The two now live in

Middletown, where their office is based.

White’s father sold his own extermination business in 2016 – but White had value in the company through his own clients. When he attempted to sell his own piece of the business, as he describes it, his customers “went up in arms.”

“I didn’t want to lose that,” White recalls.

He decided to do pest control while continuing with IT. Originally, he took on both roles at once – and then the company exploded in popularity. “I had to decide what direction to go, because I couldn’t do both anymore. In the beginning of 2024, I put both feet into BeeGone Termite & Pest Control to make it a full company.”

Originally, White’s father didn’t want him to pursue the extermination industry. However, as Fromage puts it: “He enjoys it. He’s very personal and outgoing. He enjoys meeting all these people, and there’s also a family connection. For a few summers, he had his father working for him this time around. Dean knows his customers.”

To which White adds, “I treat my customers how I want to be treated. All my customers are family.”

While White handles the actual exterminations, Fromage is at the helm of all administrative work. Their daughter, Lilyanne, a college student, helps with bookkeeping when she’s home from school, and Fromage’s daughter, Melissa, also aids them. Even the grandchildren get involved. “It’s truly a family-run business.”

It’s with this personal touch and family atmosphere that truly separates Bee-Gone from the rest – and not only that, White will ensure that the entire property – interior and exterior – is

covered under warranty. “That’s why a lot of customers want us,” White says.

“They know our response time is just as important the next time and not just the first time. When we do a job, we do it right.”

Bee-Gone is proud to be a Monmouth County company, as well as working with local beekeepers to save honeybees. “We’re one of the best in the area for saving honeybees,” White says.

Creepy crawly tales When asked about the most prominent exterminator stories he has, White laughs and says, “I’ve got so many.”

One night, at 11 o’clock, a customer called White to let him know that something had happened in their master bedroom. “There was a big ruckus, and they were afraid to go in.” The next morning, White arrived promptly at 8 a.m. “I went into the room, and it looked like a tornado went through it.”

White and his father discovered two little raccoons beneath the dresser – they fell in from the attic, while two more raccoons remained in the attic. “It was a whirlwind – he caught the mother and safely removed the family.” (Bee-Gone goes out of their way to save raccoons, White informs.) With the attic nearly destroyed by the droppings of raccoons, White says, “I went to the customer and said, “How could you not smell it? This is bad for your health.” The customer retorted, “I’ve got bad sinuses!” White ended up helping him out in fixing the ceilings and repairing the attic.

“I was on my way to a customer,” White recalls, “when another customer called me in a panic.” He attended to the emergency and was greeted with quite a sight: A woman’s 10-year-old son was

attempting to swat European hornets with a tennis racket. “She had a maintenance contract with another company,” White explains. “They came out, took a quick look, told her there was nothing he could do – and that he was running late for his next appointment – and left.”

White, however, instantly tended to the hornets’ nest, nestled 15 feet up the woman’s chimney. “I took care of it in 15 minutes”, he says. “The mother didn’t want me to leave. That’s how fast you can take care of something when you know what you are doing.”

A top fear for many — and for myself, after hearing this story — is getting caught in a swarm of bees. “A family called me in a panic because they couldn’t get into their house — there were hundreds of bees.” White went over to the house and quickly realized they weren’t just bees — they were yellow jackets! “It took about three hours to get them all down”. He recounts, “There were well over 500.” Fromage, laughing, adds, “Dean never made it to our ballroom dancing lesson that night!

Afterwards, I waited for him at a restaurant, and when he finally showed up, he had one wild story to tell — with a battle scar or two. The bartender felt so bad, he treated him to a drink!”

These stories could have ended without laughter if it weren’t for the services at Bee-Gone. Their mission is simple: To treat every customer like family and every job like it matters – because it does.

To learn more about Bee-Gone Termite & Pest Control — or to schedule your free estimate — visit beegonepests.com or call 908-468-2841 (908-GOT-BUG1).

MonmouthCommunity.com JULY 2025

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Check out our digital editions online at monmouthcommunity.com

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

Dinner Show — AND A —

Every Monday (July 7, 14, 21, 28) What: Quizzoholics Trivia Where: Deal Lake Bar + Co, Loch Arbour When: 7:30pm - 9:30pm deallakebarco.com Every Tuesday (July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29) What: Live Irish Music Where: St. Stephen’s Green Publick House, Spring Lake When: 6 p.m.

SSGPub.com Every Wednesday (July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30) What: Country Night - Live Bands & Line Dancing with Rachael & DJ Mike Nice Where: Bar Anticipation, Lake Como When: 6pm - 10pm bar-a.com Every Wednesday (July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30) What: Boozy Bingo with DJ Lunique Where: Deal Lake Bar + Co, Loch Arbour When: 7pm - 9pm deallakebarco.com Every Wednesday (June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30) What: Trivia Night Where: Chubby Pickle, Highlands When: 7pm thechubbypicklenj.com Every Thursday (July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31) What: High Standards Trio Where: R Bar, Asbury Park When: 6pm - 9pm ItsRBar.com

Our picks for some fun nights out at local bars and restaurants this month Every Friday and Weekend What: Live Music Where: The Columns, Avon-bythe-Sea When: Evenings, times vary thecolumnsnj.com Every Friday and Saturday What: Live Music Where: The Anchor Tavern, Belmar When: 6 p.m. www.anchortavernnj.com Every Weekend What: Live music Where: Triumph Restaurant & Brewery, Red Bank TriumphBrewing.com Sunday, July 6 What: HERE’S ELTON Tribute Show Where: Tim McLoone’s Supper Club, Asbury Park When: 7pm timmcloonessupperclub.com Thursday, July 10 What: Waiting on Mongo, The Hip Snacks Where: Wonder Bar, Asbury Park When: 7pm wonderbarasburypark.com Sunday, July 20 What: GYPSY: A True Stevie Nicks Experience Where: Tim McLoone’s Supper Club, Asbury Park When: 7pm timmcloonessupperclub.com Thursday, July 24 What: Bandits on the Run Where: Wonder Bar, Asbury Park When: 7 p.m. wonderbarasburypark.com

SUMMER SAFETY:

PARENT'S CORNER

Precautions for Jellyfish, Bee & Wasp Stings

BY MAIA FRANCO

S

ummer at the shore means long, hot beach days and plenty of time outdoors. But as we enjoy the sunshine, it’s important for parents to stay prepared for some seasonal nuisances, particularly jellyfish stings, bee and wasp encounters, and the rare but dangerous risk of anaphylaxis. Here’s a guide to help you prevent and treat these stings and know when it’s time to seek emergency care.

Treatments: 1. Remove the stinger (for bees) by scraping gently with a card or blunt object.

2. Wash the area with soap and water.

3. Apply ice packs to reduce swelling.

4. Use oral antihistamines (like Benadryl) for itching, and acetaminophen/ibuprofen for pain.

Jellyfish Stings: Common at the Shore From Sandy Hook to Cape May, Jersey beaches are popular summer destinations for people and for jellyfish, which can turn a fun day into a painful one. Common species like moon jellyfish and sea nettles are often spotted along the Jersey Shore, especially from late June through August.

Signs of Anaphylaxis While most stings are mild, some children can have a severe allergic reaction — known as anaphylaxis. This is a medical emergency and can occur within minutes.

Symptoms of a Jellyfish Sting: • Immediate sharp or burning pain • Red, raised welts or rashes • Swelling or itchiness What To Do: 1. Rinse with salt water (not fresh water — it can worsen stings).

2. Pluck out tentacles with tweezers (wear gloves if possible).

3. Soak in hot water for 20–45 minutes to reduce pain.

4. Apply hydrocortisone cream or antihistamines to reduce itching and swelling.

5. Avoid urinating on the sting — it’s a myth and may make things worse!

If symptoms spread, breathing becomes difficult, or the child has a known jellyfish allergy, call your doctor immediately!

Bee and Wasp Stings Bees and wasps are essential for pollination but can become aggressive in late summer, especially during dry spells.

Teach kids not to swat — calmly moving away reduces the chance of multiple stings.

Bee Stings: • Leave behind a stinger • Cause localized pain, redness, and swelling Wasp Stings: • Do NOT leave a stinger • Tend to be more painful and can sting multiple times

Warning Signs: • Swelling of the face, lips, or throat • Difficulty breathing or wheezing • Hives or widespread rash • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea • Dizziness or fainting What to Do: 1. Use an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) immediately if available.

2. Call 911.

3. Lay the person down with legs elevated unless they’re having trouble breathing (then keep them upright).

If your child has a known allergy, talk to your pediatrician about carrying an EpiPen Jr. and developing an Anaphylaxis Plan for camps, daycares, and schools.

Safety and Prevention Tips for Parents: • Avoid strong fragrances and brightly colored clothing when outside — they attract stinging insects.

• Wear water shoes at the beach to avoid jellyfish tentacles in the surf or on the sand.

• Shake out towels and clothes left on the ground.

• Keep food and drinks covered when eating outside.

• Educate children on staying calm around insects and recognizing early symptoms of allergic reactions.

Resources: • NJ Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222 – Free 24/7 guidance • Hackensack Meridian Health Urgent Care: Locations across NJ • Pediatric Allergy Specialists: Consider visiting one if your child has had a prior reaction to stings MonmouthCommunity.com JULY 2025

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Monmouth County Fair Celebrates 50 Years of Family Fun

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he Monmouth County Fair returns this summer to commemorate a remarkable milestone—50 years as a cherished joint venture between the Monmouth County Park System and Monmouth County 4-H. A staple summer tradition for residents, the Fair promises five days of family-friendly fun, entertainment, and community spirit from July 23-27 at East Freehold Showgrounds, 1500 Kozloski Road, Freehold.

An Exciting Lineup for All Ages This year’s Fair will feature a dynamic mix of live entertainment, thrilling rides, delicious food, 4-H shows and exhibits, Home & Garden competitions and exhibits, and interactive nature and historic exhibits from the Park System. Longtime favorites will return, including: • Robinson’s Racing Pigs • Mutts Gone Nuts • Hilby the Skinny German Juggle Boy • Bwana Jim Wildlife Show • Tommie Turvey’s Stunt Horses and Dogs Joining the excitement are new performances, including DAWG Pro Wrestling’s “DAWG Days of Summer,” Andrew’s Big Show, Wacky Quacky Duck Derby, FAM JAM Family Dance Parties, and Wonderzone Dinosaurs—sure to delight audiences of all ages.

Special Events and Musical Performances To help celebrate a half-century of Fair fun, opening night on Wednesday, July 23, will feature hot air balloon rides from 6-9 p.m., a callback to the Fair’s early years, and a dazzling 50th anniversary fireworks display. Both the hot air balloon rides and fireworks are weather-dependent.

The Main Stage lineup offers something for every music lover: • Wednesday – Yasgur’s Farm from 8:15-9 p.m. & 9:30-10:15 p.m.

• Thursday – Mission Dance Band from 8:30-10 p.m.

• Friday – Nicole Atkins from 8:30-10 p.m.

• Saturday – Yellow Brick Road – A Tribute to Elton John from 8:30-10 p.m.

• Sunday – Rockit Academy from 2-2:45 p.m. followed by Jackson Pines from 4:15-5:30 p.m.

Show Off Your Talents in the Home & Garden Competitions Whether you’re a skilled painter, master gardener, or talented baker, the Home & Garden competitions are your chance to shine. Submit your finest creations—from cakes to crafts to homegrown produce (and so much more)—and see how they measure up! Entry information can be found in the Home & Garden Competition brochure, available online at www.MonmouthCountyFair.com.

Rides and Admission Details Reithoffer Shows will provide thrilling amusement rides for all ages, including a special Kids’ Zone just for younger children. Ride wristbands will be available daily: $30 each on Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday $35 each on Friday and Saturday Fair Hours: Wednesday through Friday, July 23-25: 4 p.m.–11 p.m.

Saturday, July 26: 11 a.m.–11 p.m.

Sunday, July 27: 11 a.m.–6 p.m.

General Admission: • $10 per person • Half price entry for the first two hours of each day (4-6 p.m.

Wednesday-Friday; 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday & Sunday) • Children 12 and under enter free • Veterans and Active Military with ID enter free • Seniors age 65 and older enter free on Sunday, July 27 • Parking is free Join your neighbors in celebrating half a century of summer excitement at the Monmouth County Fair—an event where memories are made, traditions thrive, and fun never ends. For more information about this year’s Monmouth County Fair, visit www.MonmouthCountyFair.com, email info@monmouthcountyparks.com, or call 732-842-4000, ext. 4312.

MonmouthCommunity.com JULY 2025

35

THEO of Holmdel

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MIDNIGHT of Holmdel

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BARBIE and KEN of Colts Neck

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Your pets can be celebrities too.

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com Send in a photo to info@CommunityMagazineNJ.com

pet resort & hotel Don’t Leave Your Dog Home Alone This Summer — Let Them Join the Fun at Doggy Daycare

S Four-legged Fun! Barktastic places to hang out with your pets this month and beyond The Sandbox at Seastreak Beach, Highlands — A casual beach bar with stunning views of the New York City skyline, The Sandbox offers an amazing setting to unwind and enjoy amazing food and drinks with your favorite K-9 companion. Located at the Seastreak Ferry Terminal, 326 Shore Drive, The Sandbox welcomes guests all summer long. sandbox.seastreak.com Wolf Hill Recreation Area, Oceanport — Adjacent to Monmouth Park in Oceanport Wolf Hill offers pleasant paths and an off-leash dog park so Fido can exercise and socialize! monmouthcountyparks.com Luna Verde Vegan Mexican Restaurant, Bradley Beach — Located in the heart of the bustling Bradley Beach, this family-owned restaurant which opened in 2018, is a great spot for foodies who enjoy made-fromscratch, flavorful, and innovating cooking. With its outdoors eating, it is a perfect spot for you and your pup to relax and dine just blocks from the beach! veganlunaverde.com Kim Maire’s Eat n Drink Away, Asbury Park — This Irish American pub just a block from the beach offers a friendly neighborhood vibe for locals and visitors to enjoy a good meal and drink within a short walk of Asbury’s most popular spots. With summertime outdoor seating available, be sure to ask to see the doggy menu when you bring your four-legged friend!

KimMariesEatnDrinkAway.com Bell Works Farmers & Makers Market, Holmdel — On a day that is too hot or rainy for you and your furry friend, make the trip up to Bell Works in Holmdel! The reimagined site of historic Bell Labs, Bell Works is a public co-working space with much space to walk and shop.

To make the most of the summertime feeling, join their Farmers & Makers Market which is on Wednesdays and Saturdays. This offers a great way to shop fresh and local despite the weather! bell.works

ummer in New Jersey is all about beach days, boardwalks, and spontaneous adventures—but what about your fourlegged family member? While you’re off enjoying summer fun, your dog doesn’t have to stay home alone. At Green Leaf Pet Resort in Ocean Township, NJ, doggy daycare offers a safe, enriching, and fun-filled environment where dogs can play, socialize, and stay active. So, whether you’re planning a day trip, running errands, or heading to the shore, give your dog a day of excitement too—with all the care and attention they deserve.

Q: Why should I bring my dog to daycare instead of leaving them at home during summer outings?

A: Dogs thrive on stimulation and companionship. Leaving them home alone while you’re out for hours can lead to boredom, anxiety, and destructive behavior. Doggy daycare at Green Leaf gives your pup the chance to play, socialize, and stay engaged in a safe, supervised setting. While you’re enjoying your day trip, your dog is having one of their own!

Q: What does a typical day at Green Leaf’s daycare look like?

A: Your dog’s day will be filled with group play sessions, rest breaks, toys, games, and lots of attention from trained caregivers. Green Leaf offers spacious indoor and outdoor play areas designed to keep dogs active and happy in any weather.

Dogs are grouped by size and temperament to ensure a positive experience for all.

Q: My dog has a lot of energy. Can daycare help with that?

A: Definitely. Daycare is perfect for high-energy dogs who need a healthy outlet. Rather than bouncing off the walls at home, your pup will burn off energy playing with friends and engaging in structured activities—so they return home tired, happy, and relaxed.

Q: Is there an evaluation process before my dog can attend daycare?

A: Yes, Green Leaf Pet Resort conducts a temperament evaluation to ensure daycare is a good fit for your dog. This helps staff create a safe, enjoyable environment for all dogs in their care. Once approved, you can schedule daycare days as needed—whether it’s once a week or every day!

Q: How do I get started with doggy daycare at Green Leaf Pet Resort?

A: Getting started is easy. Call (732) 272-0800 or visit greenleafpetresort.com/oakhurst/ to schedule a daycare evaluation and give your dog a summer full of tail-wagging fun.

While you’re soaking up the sun, your dog will be doing the same—with new friends, expert care, and a day full of joy at Green Leaf Pet Resort.

MonmouthCommunity.com JULY 2025

37

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The County That Gives Local nonprofits react to Monmouth County’s proven overwhelming generosity

BY EMMA SYLVIA

A

nyone who reads Community Magazine knows that Monmouth County is the home to a number of amazing nonprofits, all of whom work tirelessly for the betterment of their communities. When I sit down to talk with directors or staff of nonprofits, they tend to never talk about themselves. Instead of discussing how they got to where they are or any of the countless of their own achievements, they instead prefer to talk about the people around them, the work their nonprofit does, and what help Monmouth needs to make it even better.

It speaks to the selflessness of the people in our area.

That’s why it’s no surprise that a study, conducted by SmartAsset analyzing IRS data, found that Monmouth County residents rank among the most generous in all of New Jersey.

Monmouth’s Charitable County Index is a whopping 51.02, putting us at the top of the list of NJ counties. Vanishaa Doshi of SmartAsset explains how the Most Generous Counties ranking was created: “We looked at two key metrics: Charitable contributions as a percentage of net income, and the proportion of tax returns with any charitable deduction.”

“While income plays a role in the study, the index is designed to capture relative generosity, not just total dollars given,” Doshi further explains. “That’s why we looked at donations as a share of net income, regardless of amount. Some high-income counties do rank highly, but the study also surfaced less-wealthy areas where a significant portion of residents give generously relative to their means.”

Though the findings are good to hear, leaders and mem-

40

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

bers of local nonprofits weren’t surprised to see how Monmouth County ranked amongst their neighbors.

Kara Grimes of Mercy Center, which aims to end hunger in Asbury Park and beyond, said: “We’re not surprised to see Monmouth County ranked among the most generous in New Jersey. At Mercy Center, we are incredibly blessed to have a compassionate and committed donor base that consistently steps up to support our neighbors. Whether it’s funding programs for women and children, helping us stock our food pantry, or supporting educational opportunities through the Sisters Academy of New Jersey, the generosity we see from individuals, families, and local businesses is both humbling and inspiring. There are many worthy nonprofit organizations in Monmouth County, and we regularly connect with donors who are passionate about supporting several local missions. That is part of what makes philanthropy in Monmouth County so special. Especially now, as federal spending priorities have led to cutbacks in vital services, our donors are more priceless than ever. The collective giving spirit in this community truly makes a difference in the lives of so many in need, and it makes all of our work possible.”

Bailey Taft of ShoreHouse, which provides wellness to those living with mental illness, says, “It’s incredibly motivating to see our Monmouth County community step up so generously — knowing that people care this deeply reminds me why Shore House does this work.”

Bob Heugle of the Frances Foundation For Kids Fighting Cancer reacts, “The study confirms what I have personally witnessed for the last 25 years: The Monmouth County Com-

munity truly cares about each other.

We rally in tough times with kindness, compassion and generosity. We stand together, giving what we can, whenever we can, however we can, helping those in need. The donations from the generous kind hearts of Monmouth County have helped the Frances Foundation gift more than 5 million dollars to hurting pediatric families.”

Sue Monteiro of the Covenant House, which aids youth facing home-

lessness, says, “Throughout my years of working with the Monmouth County community, I’ve consistently been moved by their generosity and kindness.

They truly stand out among the most compassionate people I’ve known.”

I commonly tell people that my favorite part about my job is all the people I meet and all the stories I hear.

More often than not, I’m meeting people like Grimes, Taft, Heugle and Monteiro, who laud only the work they do

and the residents of Monmouth that make this possible. It’s shown me – and I hope, readers across the county – that Monmouth County isn’t just special for its beaches and closeness to the city, but for the people who make the DNA of the county one of compassion, selflessness and love.

If you have a nonprofit organization that you think should be highlighted in Community Magazine, reach out to emma@communitymagazinenj.com

MonmouthCommunity.com JULY 2025

41

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County Commissioners Recognize Colts Neck High School Spring Interns

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he Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners recognized and thanked seven students from Colts Neck High School who completed internships in various County departments during the spring of 2025.

The recognition took place at the Commissioners Workshop Meeting on May 22.

“Internships offer students valuable hands-on experience as they begin to explore potential career paths,” said Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone. “These opportunities allow students to gain insight into a professional work environment and learn how County offices operate. We are grateful to the Colts Neck High School administration for continuing to part-

ner with us and to the students for their dedication and commitment to being part of the Monmouth County team this spring. We wish them all the best in their future endeavors.”

The Colts Neck High School interns honored were: Samuel Gershon – Sheriff’s Office Isabella Giovanniello – Benefits and Workforce Wellness Matthew Harder – Public Works and Engineering Brenna Kaplan – Sheriff’s Office Jordyn Sankovsky – Department of Public Information Siddharth Shastri – Monmouth County Park System Kyla Uniglicht – Department of Human Services

Greek Orthodox Church Opens in Holmdel During 2025 Bayshore Greek Festival

J

une 7th marked the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly built Kimisis Tis Theotokou Greek Orthodox Church on Hillcrest Road in Holmdel. The opening, attended by local officials and esteemed clergy, helped kick off the 2025 Bayshore Greek Festival which was held from June 7–8. The festival had Greek food vendors with live music and other actives for the families.

Photo and editorial credit: Holmdel Township Facebook page

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

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AROUND TOWN » COLTS NECK | HOLMDEL

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Colts Neck Middle Schools Display Work in Art Show

he talent of the students at Cedar Drive Middle School in Colts Neck was on full display on the evening of May 28. Students of all grade levels showcased their incredible skills in the annual exhibit. Congratulations to all the students for creating such amazing art pieces and thank you the wonderful teachers for supporting and developing Cedar Drive students!

Photo and editorial credits: Colts Neck Township Schools Facebook page

Student Successes M

ichael Portegello of Holmdel was named to Champlain College’s Dean’s List for the Spring 2025 semester.

Mia Smith of Colts Neck was awarded a BA in American History degree at Salve Regina University’s 75th Commencement ceremony.

Ao Cheng of Holmdel was named the recipient of The Darling Prize in American History, The Senior Prize in Economics, and The Tompkins Prize in Mathematics at Hamilton College's annual Class & Charter Day. The ceremony features an address by a historian, trustee, graduate, or faculty member whose topic is related to Hamilton's history and traditions. Academic and scholarly achievement prizes are awarded to students and faculty.

The Darling Prize in American History is awarded to the senior having the most distinguished record in at least four courses in American history.

This prize is awarded annually to an outstanding senior economics major.

The Tompkins Prize in Mathematics is awarded to two juniors who excel in mathematics. The award is based on an examination near the close of the junior year, involving three years of work in mathematics.

Cheng, a senior majoring in economics and mathematics, is a graduate of Stony Brook School.

Do you want to send us a student success tip? Please e-mail to info@communitymagazinenj.com

46

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

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Closettec Builds on 36 Years of Passion and Legacy

N

ot many companies can boast that they’ve been in the game for nearly four decades. That kind of longevity is a true testament to the stellar quality of the business itself and the level of service it provides customers, and such is the case with Closettec, the premier custom closet design and storage solutions company in Monmouth County. Founder Mike Adelfio sat down with Community Magazine to talk about their longevity and just what makes them different from the competition.

Adelfio originally moved from Lakewood to Closetec’s homebase of Freehold 30 years ago to be closer to family. Living just ten minutes from his office, he aimed to be as involved in the community as possible, with his children playing in Little League and basketball. As it turned out, his company grew as fast as his children did.

“I started 36 years ago, when I was 25, as a very small operation,” Adelfio explains. Starting with just two employees and growing to now having 15, the company has expanded from

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a focus on kitchen cabinets to closets, laundry rooms, home offices and more. Many of the employees have been around for years, with one saleswoman having worked there for more than 22 years.

“I feel like everyone that works with me is an extended family,” Adelfio says. “I’ve seen them grow and evolve through the company. It’s nice to see that evolution.

A company within a community Something else that Adelfio treasures is being at the heart of Freehold – and, ultimately, being a Monmouth County business owner. “I live here, and I love it. I go to dinner once or twice a week and see people I’ve done business with. I go to Gus’s Diner or another place I frequent, and I see people I’ve done work for. They know who I am; it’s very nice, it’s nice to have those relationships. It’s a big community.”

Closettec’s stamp is all over this big community. Robert Padovano, Business Development & Designer of Closettec,

says, “We’ll see the Closettec logo, and people say, ‘You did our whole house. It’s very organic, and it happens more often than not.”

Unlike many businesses, Closettec handles everything in-house.

“We’re a full operation here,” Padovano explains. “The designer goes out on-site, we put the designs together, and it goes through production. We don’t deal with kits or packages, and we’re not ordering from China or Canada. It’s homebred from the United States. We get that true custom fit.”

It doesn’t matter what a customer requests – Closettec is there to achieve a homeowner or business owner’s vision.

“Everything we do is completely custom.

We’re able to do it because of the recruitment we have. All of our installers work for us. It’s all in-house.”

Something that Adelfio holds dear is the fact that this business he started from

scratch is staying in the family. Padovano is Adelfio’s son-in-law, and he and Adelfio’s son, Ryan, make up the second generation for Closettec. “They’re learning from me, which is great. The kids like doing it. I look forward to getting up every morning. At this stage in the game, I don’t need to do this, but I like it. Seeing everyone here, interacting with customers and my employees – it’s fun.”

Throughout the day-to-day, Adelfio works as the support system for Closettec. “I go through the production, and check if anyone has any questions or any needs.” With a staff as experienced as Closettec’s, though, Adelfio is part of a well-oiled machine. Amy Klar, Closettec’s Office Manager, has been there for 7 years, and designer Patty Jagermann has been with the company for nearly three decades.

their competitors is their showroom.

“People can see exactly what we do and what everything looks like. Sometimes, people need to see the product to make decisions. By having a showroom, people have the opportunity to do just that.

Competitors might just have a website; we have an entire showroom.”

Outshining the competition What truly separates Clossetec from

If you would like to learn more about Closettec, visit closettecnj.com

Everything Closettec does is guaranteed for 10 years.

“It’s kind of amazing that people can call us [about work we did] 10, 15, 30 years ago, from when we were a young company, and we go out and fix it,” Adelfio explains. “The fact that they can call the same number from 30 years ago and we’re there to answer; it’s amazing. It’s a testimony to who we are and why we’re still here. It’s been 36 years of not just work, but passion and legacy.”

MonmouthCommunity.com JULY 2025

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That’s What Friends Are For

Monmouth nonprofit brings community and camaraderie to those with special needs

BY EMMA SYLVIA

S

ometimes, your family isn’t simply the one that you’re born with, but the one that you make. No one knows that better than Friendship Circle, a Monmouth County nonprofit organization that aims to connect volunteers with individuals with special needs – all to cultivate not just a community, but friendships that last a lifetime.

Though their main office is in Manalapan, Friendship Circle operates all over Monmouth County, with teen volunteers from Manalapan, Colts Neck, Marlboro, Freehold – in addition to Ocean County and even Staten Island.

“We accept everyone and anyone,” says Mikayla Schultz, Volunteer Coordinator at Friendship Circle.

Friendship Circle dates back to 2001. “There was a need,” Schultz explains. “There was a gap with programs and resources, particularly friendship. Friendship is a necessity, not a privilege.” The nonprofit started off small, with just about 20 participants during its inception. Now, in 2025, the group has grown and evolved, with members that had joined the program all the way back in 2001 still participating. Participants range from young to old, with the youngest being seven years

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old, and the oldest being 55.

“When individuals with special needs turn 21,” Schultz elaborates, “there’s a lack of resources available. You graduate and go, ‘Now what?’”

Across the programs that Friendship Circle runs, they have over 150 teen volunteers, and over 110 participants. Each volunteer is paired with an individual with special needs, with the pairing lasting every week. “It creates a form of connection and friendship.” The duos participate in many activities, including yoga, dance and fitness – “You name it; we do it,” Schultz says.

“Friendship Circle has profoundly shaped who I am,” says Leeya Gabay, a senior high school volunteer. “Through the incredible people I’ve met and the unforgettable moments we’ve shared, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the world and my place in it. Being part of a community that embraces individuals of all abilities has opened my eyes to the beauty in our differences and the strength in our shared humanity. It has given me purpose, perspective, and a second family. I truly don’t know where I would be without it!”

Local businesses are more than eager to partner with Friendship Circle.

Many contact the nonprofit, asking to be a part of the activities, fostering a sense of collaboration. “A lot of people contact us, saying things like, ‘I have this fitness business, and I’d love to be a part of what you’re doing.’ What we typically see happen is that they come in, have an idea, and then they end up being a part of our family. We have a really strong community.”

Friendship Circle’s 25 programs run throughout the scholastic school year, typically beginning in September or October, and ending in the beginning of May. Not only are the programs for socialization – they also have educational value. Understanding that their volunteers are teens that might not have all of the knowledge necessary for work, they aim to expand their understanding so that they may truly connect with their partners. “We host three seminars a year, where we bring in BCBAs, speech therapists and sign language interpreters – we really provide these seminars to give them more tools and understanding.”

Friendship Circle isn’t just transformative for the participants – it also changes the lives of its staff. Schultz herself worked as an ABA therapist with a

colleague who also worked with Friendship Circle as a leader (akin to a teacher).

The group needed a substitute for Sundays, and Schultz applied – and has now been working with the group for more than two years.

“It was an instant connection; I just fell in love. I went into this field wanting to make an impact and change in others’ lives, but I couldn’t imagine the change and impact it’d make in my life. I learn something new all the time. It’s this sense of community and connection. I think in the world, where sometimes so many people feel alone, you want to feel like somebody. Here, we say, ‘Everybody is somebody.’”

“When I was in the 8th grade, Friendship Circle started a program for siblings with special needs siblings,” says Rebecca Josephson, current Staff Leader and former volunteer. “It was a time for all of us to get together, talk and really relate to each other. Once we got a little more comfortable and confident, we got paired with our very own buddy. I immediately fell in love. It gave me a purpose. I never stopped loving Friendship Circle. When they offered me a job, I was so honored and excited – and here we are today!”

At the end of the year, the nonprofit

has their annual celebration, their biggest event. Throughout the scholastic year, however, they have other events, like a Moms Day Out, as well as summer and winter camps in order to provide community while school is out.

The group is growing rapidly, with a goal to grow more programs and events as the nonprofit expands. “We’re in the works of doing a day program that’s once a week, starting in September. That’s where we want to expand. We want to get a bigger space and really expand our programs.”

Other goals include a sensory room, as well as expanding upon the Sunday programs and having more staff. “We’re always looking for new individuals.”

“At Friendship Circle, we believe that every step we take together brings us closer to a world where everyone belongs,” says Muka Pewner, Director of Operations.

Schultz emphasizes just how truly necessary friendship is in our daily lives.

“We have teen volunteers that come in, and they’re nervous – but then they leave the program with connections beyond our walls.”

To learn more about Friendship Circle, visit friendsnj.com MonmouthCommunity.com JULY 2025

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