June 2024

Summer’s About to Rock at Pier Village in Long Branch

Monday night tribute concerts return for 2024

What Pride Means to Me

BY LAUREN ALBRECHT

Pride means something different to everyone, but for me, Pride means solidarity, opportunity and responsibility. These are a few words that apply, but they hardly do justice to the brilliant and beautiful depth and spectrum of emotions that Pride evokes. No community is monolith; the LGBTQ community is no exception. The common threads that unite us are the need for solidarity, for community support, and for shared experience. It’s been my experience that allies are integral and important in the fight for lived equality, but that it is our collective resolve as a community that sustains us generation after generation. We are stronger together and stronger every day. There is something so essential and visceral about queer people supporting and protecting other queer people.

I see Pride as an opportunity to educate. It’s an opportunity to continue the discussion about the continued, lived inequality of the LGBTQ community. It’s an opportunity to gather together all over the state, and every Pride gathering is as meaningful as the next. Whether it’s a flag raising, a picnic with 20 people, a parade or a festival with thousands, each observation is an opportunity to share with the world what the LGBTQ community needs, wants and has already achieved. Above all, I see Pride as an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who came before us and the sacrifices of those who live out loud and unapologetically, even when it’s not safe or comfortable to do so.

And most integrally, Pride feels to me like responsibility. The responsibility to ensure that our LGBTQ youth have better outcomes than any generation previous, the responsibility to continue pushing equity forward, the responsibility to uplift my community, the responsibility to create and support safe and affirming spaces, the responsibility to honor our forebears. This part is inescapable, it will always continue to inform my advocacy work for as long as I live, and I’m lucky enough to do this work with an incredibly dedicated team.

About the author:

Since 2019, Lauren Albrecht has served as Garden State Equality’s Policy Consultant before transitioning to the role of Director of Advocacy & Organizing in 2023. Lauren holds a B.A. in English and Art History and serves in a leadership capacity for several local and statewide political organizations. Lauren is also the Co-owner/ Co-editor of TAPinto Neptune. A lifelong resident of New Jersey, Lauren resides in Wall Township with her family and her dog Shelby.

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Summer’s About to Rock (again) at Pier Village in Long Branch Monday night tribute concerts return for 2024

BY PAMELA DOLLAK

If you’re reading this, you already know that summers down at the Jersey shore rock – especially come the weekends. But Mondays? Not as much.

However, at Pier Village, the multi-mixed-use facility in Long Branch, Mondays in the summer reeeeally rock – AND roll.

Because Mondays at Pier Village are when the best tribute bands in New Jersey -- that cover the best bands in rock ’n’ roll history -- hit the Carousel Stage to strut their stuff and get people on their feet.

Nicole Guilford, Pier Village’s director of leasing and marketing, is the person responsible for this festive night of excellent music and family fun.

She said that when she came on board in 2017, there was entertainment practically every night in the summers at Pier Village, except Mondays. So she implemented a schedule of

tribute bands for each Monday in July and August that has become (almost) as legendary as the bands that these groups represent.

“This has been a very successful music series. The residents, guests, shoppers … everyone loves it,” Guilford said.

“It brings life to Pier Village on a Monday. And what a great way to support the retailers on a quieter night.”

Mondays at a multi-mixed-use facility

Pier Village is a multi-hyphenate property, on which are an apartment building (with 500 units), two hotels, a bowling alley, pool tables, mini golf, arcades, an array of retailers and restaurants and much more.

Shops and retailers are open all year round and, in addition to the summer concerts, there are slew of other events, including but not limited to, movies on beach, artisan mar-

The E Street Shuffle

kets, festivals, holiday tree and menorah lightings, and more music.

For Pier Village’s Monday Night Summer Concert Series, Guilford said that she works very closely with the city of Long Branch, which also hosts a weekly night of music at Pier Village in the summer called “Thursdays by the Sea.”

Both concert series are free to the public. The difference between the two is that the city focuses more on original rock ’n’ roll bands, while Pier Village sticks with tributes of many genres, which can bring 100 to as many as 500 people there on any given Monday, depending on the weather or band.

“We have all different types of music. “We like to keep it complementary to the city’s series,” she said, adding that guests can expect tributes for Tom Petty, The Grateful Dead, David Bowie, and, of course, New Jersey’s own, Bruce Springsteen.

A tribute to The Boss

Dave Turner plays piano for The E Street Shuffle, a Springsteen tribute band who will perform as part of the concert series at Pier Village. This will be the fourth summer there for E Street which, according to Turner, has become a favorite venue for the members.

“It’s a cool place … we set up right by the water. It’s just beautiful – very picturesque,” said Turner, whose show with E Street at Pier Village takes place 7 p.m. July 15. “The concerts are really for everybody. They’re very family friendly. Plus, I’ll be home by 10 (p.m.).”

That bedtime is unusual for Turner and the rest of the group, as The E Street Shuffle generally plays between 60 and 80 shows a year, traveling anywhere from New England to Virginia, mostly between St. Patrick’s Day through summer, each band member with a full-time day job on top. Turner, who works in compliance for a medical device company, is a self-proclaimed “nerd from 9-5 who pretends to be a rock star at night.”

He’s always a little surprised when people outside of New Jersey take to The Boss.

“A lot of time you think it won’t work when you take a ‘Bruce band’ out

for the Pier Village Monday Night Summer Concert Series

JULY 1

Live Summer Music Tribute

JULY 8

Bell Bottom Blues

An Eric Clapton Experience

JULY 15

The E Street Shuffle

Bruce Springsteen Tribute

JULY 22

Chicks that Rock the 80s

A Tribute to all the ‘80s Rock Chicks!

JULY 29

Damn The Torpedoes

A Tom Petty Experience

AUGUST 5

Starman

A Tribute to David Bowie

AUGUST 12

Black Dog

The Ultimate Led Zepplin Experience

AUGUST 19:

Captain Jack

Billy Joel Tribute

AUGUST 26

Splintered Sunlight

Grateful Dead Experience

Damn the Torpedos

of New Jersey,” he said. “But it does, because people everywhere really love his music.”

Turner explained that the band likes to mix up the setlist based on the venue. So if you plan to attend E Street’s show at Pier Village, expect to hear mostly Springsteen classics like “Born to Run” and “Rosalita.” However, every once in a while, Sean Loughlin, lead singer and co-founder of the band, will call an audible if someone in the audience requests something special.

“This is a fun night out for families, so we’ll do a lot of the hits. They don’t want to hear the obscurities,” he laughed.

As for Guilford, she’s a big fan of The E Street Shuffle, but she’d really love to see the real Boss appear one night.

“I’m hoping we get Bruce here,” she admitted. “He’s in the area. Why hasn’t he shown up yet?”

— PHOTOS PROVIDED —

Bell Bottom Blues

Sean Loughlin, The E Street Shuffle

Music has always been a part of the fabric of Asbury Park. But an inundation of floodwater back in September 2023 put one venue on the shelf.

Some believed the House of Independents, - the 500 capacity concert venue that sits along the main downtown drag of Cookman Avenue – was shuttered for good. In the aftermath of the storm, extensive damage remained, as the space was heavily impacted by the overflow of water from nearby Wesley Lake. But after months of closed doors, Concert Crave, a New Jersey based promoter, has resurrected the venue with plans to expand its offerings.

House of Independents, which attendees enter from the top floor and descend a set of stairs to arrive at the main viewing area, needed complete rehabilitation. The original announcement from House of Independents in the days following the historic rainfall blindsided some residents. A slow leak of semi-ominous posts began showing up on their social media, including announcements about shows originally scheduled for HOI being moved to other local venues such as Asbury Lanes in order to honor their ticket sales.

It was clear from videos and pictures that made the rounds on the news that Lake Avenue, which sits one block over from Cookman, had been under several feet of water. The torrent of water came like rapids down a mountain pass, inundating the businesses on the block with several feet of water, sludge and debris. Although the rise from Lake Ave to Cookman Ave spared most businesses on the latter, House of Independents took on water, as a portion of the property actully resides on Lake Avenue.

Greg Diamond, Talent Buyer for Concert Crave, said that when the company first toured the space they realized how extensive the damage was. Walls, bathrooms,

The Reboot House of Independents Rises Again from the Flooded Streets of Asbury Park

BY BILL CLARK

backstage areas and other components needed to be demolished and rebuilt. Once the basics were established, they got to work planning to reopen an all new version of HOI, complete with the kind of Asbury Park flair that would make the venue part of the city, not just a staid, corporate space.

“We’re definitely going to start bringing in some new elements,” he said.

Diamond’s history is written on the canvas of the New Jersey music scene. Shows in packed VFW halls with air as thick as the basslines driving the sound are his roots, and serve as a critical point in how he plans to move forward with this next venture. Nobody will mistake House of Independents for an understated event hall that is more apt to host spaghetti dinners than a circle pit of flailing arms and legs. But the feel of those grassroots shows and venues are what Concert Crave hopes to imbue into the new House of Independents, while also providing more conventional events as well.

“We understand the importance of having a great venue where you can do local shows, and then also the national acts as well,” he says.

The former House of Independents hosted larger bands, dance nights and viewing parties. Diamond emphasizes that the new House of Independents is not going to be a metal, punk or hip-hop centric venue.

“It’s going to be everything under the sun. That’s a very important thing. We really want it to be all encompassing,” he says, hoping that the new iteration of the club becomes just as eclectic as the city itself.

But as any rock historian can attest, any conversations about the Asbury Park music scene all start across town on Ocean Avenue. The Stone Pony, Convention Hall

and Wonder Bar along with since-shuttered spots like The Fast Lane are historic and serve as the heart and soul of the town’s musical heritage. But House of Independents is separate from that scene in both a physical and historical sense. Instead of merely being another “house that Bruce built,” HOI is looking to cut its own path, while still respecting the musical legacy of the storied arts-centric city.

Diamond says that in addition to concerts, House of Independents will host corporate events, fitness classes, and markets with local vendors. Whereas other clubs might come to life after the sun sets, House of Independents wants to take advantage of its locale from morning through night.

First, the new operators have to establish their credibility as a premier music venue. Quickly after announcing the purchase, Concert Crave whet the appetites of former patrons with a stacked and diverse summer calendar. Kicking things off in a big way, on Saturday, June 1, the first show at the new House of Independents will be a solo performance from Brian Fallon, lead singer of legendary NJbased rockers The Gaslight Anthem.

Concert Crave is happy to have an established venue added to its repertoire. The company operates the Webster in Hartford, CT and the Crave Cave in Elizabeth, NJ and also books acts nationwide, a business practice that established their relationship with the former owners back in 2017.

The new House of Independents,

dubbed 2.0, will have the same community-driven mindset. Rebel Supply, a neighboring retailer on Cookman Avenue, will still serve as the building’s box office.

The building is well-situated for the company to become a prominent offering of downtown Asbury Park. The three block stretch from Main Street to Grande Avenue serves as the pulse of the city, with shops, restaurant and nightlife venues lining the street. Ocean Avenue and the boardwalk may be the main artery of recreation, but downtown brings in visitors year-round, its magnatism radiating onto surrounding streets as well. Mattison and Bangs Avenues are quickly rivaling the corridor with restaurants and shops that catch the attention of visitors. A robust and successful House of Independents could be the gravitational pull that benefits all in its orbit.

The city already pulls concertgoers from all over the tri-state area, but Diamond hopes to create a feeling of home for those that frequent the establishment. He wants people to walk in and know who is selling tickets, checking IDs, and slinging the drinks while connecting with people they have seen at other shows. Walking into the new House of Independents should feel comfortable, eschewing the tones that a larger concert promoting company may foster in one of their venues. More local haunts, less Disney theme parks.

“Sometimes we see bigger corporations that come in and buy venues in certain areas and they’re not really in touch with the scene and they just buy the mar-

ket they would deem necessary or what they think would work elsewhere,” he said. “But I think we’ve been able to reconnect with everybody.”

The concerts that they would host prior to the flooding and COVID-19 pandemic were able to allow them to get the feel for the city and the space. Moving forward, local artists will be invited in to decorate the walls with murals that will help the venue become undeniably Asbury Park.

The new owners also have to reinforce the infrastructure to protect from future extreme weather events. The layout leaves the building vulnerable to floods, so preventative measures have been taken, including the addition of hurricane doors.

Diamond says that as the months progress, more will be added to the venue to craft the right experience. The reopening of House of Independents has been welcome news for local musicians. The Foes of Fern, an Asbury Park-based band, graced the stage of the venue several years ago. Fern, the frontman of the prolific local performers welcomes the next iteration.

“Asbury Park has an exciting,  expansive, and diverse music scene, and we are very grateful for all of the venues that have given us - and other local artiststhe opportunity to perform,” says Fern. “I think I can speak for many members of the community when I say we felt the loss of the House of Independents last year as it supported both national and local acts, and allowed us to expand music farther into Asbury Park. We are looking forward to seeing a cool collection of touring acts and our contemporaries get back on that stage in the near future.”

Feedback and critique from patrons will also be sought and accepted, Diamond said. As a concert goer himself, Diamond knows what works for certain spaces and what might be changed. He’s always taking notes.

The key component though is simple: at a great venue, the music should sound great.

“A big thing for us is [putting together] the best sound, the best production and the best show you can possibly put on in the whole state. And we’re going to really drive that forward,” he promises.

Natalie Farrell (Photo credit: Kenny Bieber)

Rock’n Music Academy Rocks Wonder Bar

Students from Middletown’s Rock’n Music Academy performed live at a recent concert event held at Wonder Bar in Asbury Park on Sunday, April 14. Parents, fans and friends of the young aspiring rock stars gathered throughout the afternoon and were treated to a variety of songs performed by various groups, including both covers and original compositions written by the students.

Rock’n Music Academy was founded in 2005 and has seen more than 1,000 students pass through its doors over the past two decades, many of whom have gone on to play music professionally.

— PHOTOS BY TOM ZAPCIC —

Exploring Monmouth County’s Most Pleasant Spots for an Afternoon Stroll

BY RYAN LOUGHLIN

After a mentally exhausting week at work, nothing works better to reset the brain and body than a nice relaxing walk in the fresh air. And with the warm weather firmly in place, June makes for a perfect time to get out and enjoy the more picturesque spots in and around Monmouth County. From nature hikes and lakeside treks to a brisk walk on the boardwalks, there is no excuse to stay cooped up indoors. Here are a few of the top spots to go for a stroll in Monmouth County.

TURKEY SWAMP PARK (FREEHOLD)

Those looking to take a break from the bustle of downtown Freehold need not travel far in order to immerse themselves in nature, as a walk through the serene landscape of Turkey Swamp Park can be found right here in town. Miles and miles of picturesque trails await and offer a chance to observe local wildlife and various species of birds you might not run into in your own backyard. The 17-acre lake which serves as one

of the grand features of the park also offers opportunities for fishing as well as kayak, rowboat and canoe rentals, should you choose to partake. MonmouthCountyParks.com

THE BOARDWALKS (Asbury Park, Ocean Grove, Bradley Beach, Avon, Belmar and Spring Lake)

While a walk along the boardwalk is an obvious choice for a summer activity, it can also

make for a serious workout. Ambitious athletes can start as far north as Asbury Park and continue on through the towns of Ocean Grove, Bradley Beach, Avon, Belmar and Spring Lake without a break as each boardwalk connects to the next, offering miles of brisk exercise for those looking to sweat a bit while enjoying the gorgeous oceanfront scenery. On the way back, you can reward yourself with a frosty treat at the finish line in Asbury, as some of the tastiest shave ice creations can be found at Betty’s Ice Box inside Convention Hall.

MOUNT MITCHELL SCENIC OVERLOOK (Atlantic Highlands)

At 12 acres in size, Mount Mitchell Scenic Overlook may not be the largest area on this list, but it’s easily one of the most beautiful. Boasting the impressive status of being the highest natural elevation on the Atlantic seaboard, the park offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, New York City and Sandy Hook. In addition to fabulous views, the space also serves as the site of Monmouth County’s 9/11 Memorial, which serves as a tribute to the 147 men and women from Monmouth County who lost their lives in the terrorist attack. MonmouthCountyParks.com

DOWNTOWN RED BANK (Red Bank)

Who says a walk has to be based solely around natural elements? After all, few activities are more enjoyable than a leisurely saunter through a vibrant downtown shopping district, and Red Bank’s is one of the best in all of Monmouth County. Boost your step count as you pop in and poke around the various shops that line Broad Street, and be sure to head down to the Navesink River to take in a few laps and enjoy the lovely views at Riverside Gardens Park.

— PHOTOS PROVIDED —

EVENTS CALENDAR June

Saturday, June 1

18th Annual Avon 5K Run/Walk

8:30 am – 12 pm at Ocean Ave. & Norwood, Avon by the Sea

Come out and participate in a seaside race on a flat course through town. All proceeds benefit the Avon Volunteer First Aid Squad. For more information, visit www. runsignup.com.

Saturday & Sunday, June 1 – 2

Boujee Foodie Con at Fort Monmouth

12-6 pm Saturday; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, 1000 Sanger Ave. Oceanport

Experience some of the hottest restaurants and food trucks in New Jersey. Tickets are $15 on Eventbrite or $20 at the door. For more information, visit www.boujee-foodie.com.

Saturday, June 1

2nd Annual Pride Fest in the Park

12-6 pm, Huddy Park, 329 Bay Ave. Highlands

Featuring live music, food vendors, and entertainment. For more information, visit www.highlandsnj.com.

Wednesday, June 5

Wine Walk Around

5:30-7:30 pm, Piccola Italia, 837 W. Park Ave, Ocean Twp

Sample wines to try before you buy. $25 For more information, go to PiccolaItaliaNJ.com

Thursday, June 6

Trolley Boutique Bop

5-9 pm, Asbury Hotel, 210 5th Ave. Asbury Park

Take a beautiful trolley ride along the Jersey Shore while connecting with other women in business. Meet at the Asbury Hotel - $75 per person. For more information, visit www.tourism.visitmonmouth.com.

Thursday, June 6

Annual Spring Lake Historical Society

House Tour

10 am–3 pm, Spring Lake Train Station, Spring Lake

Come see historic homes on a self-guided tour. Begin at the Spring Lake Train Station where tickets and maps will be available for purchase. For more information, visit www.springlakehistoricalsociety.org.

Friday, June 7

Colts Neck Community Band –Concert in the Park

7:30 pm, 805 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft

Enjoy an evening of music and fun with the Colts Neck Community Band at Thompson Park Activity Barn in Lincroft. For more information, visit www.co.monmouth.nj.us.

Friday, June 7

Long Branch Ocean Swim

6-7 am, (meet at lifeguard stand on the beach at Chelsea Ave in Long Branch)

Led by Coach Brian Shea, this is an open water ocean swim, up to 1-hour in duration over a 600-meter (+/-) loop, off the beach in Long Branch. $10 per swim or $20 for three swims. For more information, go to JSMSwim.com

Saturday, June 8

Keansburg Amusement Park Car Show

12-5 pm, 275 Beachway, Keansburg

Classic cars and family fun are on the menu at this special event which will also feature famous cars from TV and movies courtesy of the Pop Culture Museum of New Jersey. For more info, go to Facebook.com/classicmetalproductions

Friday, Saturday and Sunday, June 7, 8 & 9

AsburyFest

Friday – 5 pm, Saturday and Sunday- 11 am 1300 Ocean Ave. Asbury Park

The annual AsburyFest is back and a great way to spend a summer weekend. Enjoy great food, music, and crafts. This three day culinary event supports the Coastal Habit for Humanity. For more information, visit www.asburyparkchamber.com.

Saturday, June 8

Aberdeen Food Truck & Music “Feastival”

11 am–8 pm, Veteran’s Memorial Park - Ocean Blvd. & Lakeshore Drive, Keyport

Enjoy a plethora of unique food trucks and craft vendors. For more information, visit www.meetup.com.

Sunday, June 9

The 51st New Jersey Irish Festival

12–4 pm, 175 Oceanport Ave, Oceanport

A lucky day of live racing, Irish foods, and music with plenty of family activities. For more information, visit www.monmouthpark.com

Friday, June 14

Limoncello Night

6 pm at Rustic Roots, located at 336 Everett Road - Lincroft, NJ. For $120, your ticket includes dinner, dancing, learn the art of limoncello making and much more. To RSVP or learn more, please call 732-933-8330

Saturday, June 15

Atlantic Highlands Classic Car Show

10 am– 4 pm, First Ave. Atlantic Highlands

Come see over 100 unique vehicles and vendors. For more information, visit www.tourism.visitmonmouth.com.

Saturday, June 15

The Red Bank Classic 5K

Race begins at 8:30 am, Broad Street, Red Bank

Be part of the 3rd Annual Red Bank Classic 5K running through downtown. The race starts and ends on Broad Street. Stop by Robinson Ale House for the after party. For more information, visit www.redbankclassic.com.

Saturday, June 15

41st Annual Giant Craft Show

9 am-4 pm, Ocean Pathway, Ocean Grove

Over 300 artisan vendors and crafters pack the Ocean Pathway between Ocean and Central avenues in Ocean Grove. Purchase unique handmade gifts and more. For more information, go to OceanGrove.org

Saturday and Sunday, June 15 and 16

North to Shore Festival Market

12-5 pm, Convention Hall, Asbury Park

Asbury Park Bazaar’s North to Shore Festival Market will feature shopping from a curated market of makers from the Jersey Shore & beyond, kids activities, flower bar, photo ops, and delicious food, libations and entertainment.

Saturday and Sunday, June 15-16

Annual Reenactment of the Battle of Monmouth

9 am, 20 State Route 33, Manalapan

Travel back in time to the 1770’s for this reenactment of the Battle of Monmouth.

Hundreds of troops encamp at the park and recreate scenarios of the battle over the weekend. For more information, visit www.friendsofmonmouth.org.

Sunday, June 16

Freshwater Fishing Derby at Turkey Swamp Park

2–5 pm, 200 Georgia Road, Freehold Township

Join the annual fishing derby open to all and a get “hooked” on a new hobby. For more information, visit www.monmouthcountyparks.com.

Sunday, June 16

Father’s Day at the Track

11 am-5 pm, Monmouth Park, Oceanport

Enjoy a Father’s Day brunch in the Dining Club, or pack a picnic to celebrate the dads in your life with a day at the races. Plus, don’t miss a Father’s Day drawing. All gentlemen receive FREE admission.

Sunday, June 16

Annual Cruise to the Jersey Shore Car Show

9 am-3 pm, Long Branch Promenade

This annual event by the city of Long Branch brings out a variety of classic cars and hot rods on the Promenade. Donations to benefit Ronald McDonald House.

For more information, go to CruisingProductions.com

Saturday, June 22

The Jersey Eats: NJ Pizza Festival

12–6 pm, 175 Oceanport Ave. Oceanport

The festival offers delicious food, live entertainment, and activities for the entire family to enjoy. For more information, visit www.njpizzafestival.com.

Saturday, June 22

13th Annual Taste of Highlands

12-5 pm, Huddy Park, 72 Waterwitch Ave. Highlands

You won’t want to miss this spectacular event with five hours of scrumptious samplings and cocktails at over 20 great Highlands restaurants and establishments. The event will take place rain or shine. Tickets are $45.00 and include a map and free parking.

For more information, go to HighlandsNJ.com

Friday, June 28

Jockey Bartender Night

6-8 pm, 175 Oceanport Ave. Oceanport

Come to the Beer Garden at the Blu Grotto and raise money for Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund. All of your favorite jockeys will be serving drinks and all the tips go toward the charity. For more information, visit www.monmouthpark.com.

Can You “Outrun” a Bad Diet?

KEITH STICKEL, MS, CSCS, CISSN

D1 TRAINING STRENGTH COACH/NUTRITIONIST

Have you ever heard the phrase, “you can’t outrun a bad diet”? It’s certainly tempting to think that we can simply “out-exercise” poor nutrition choices. However, the relationship between diet and exercise is complex, and the simple answer to whether you can outrun a bad diet is, in most cases, no.

The concept of balancing food intake with physical activity is rooted in the basic principle of energy balance: the calories you consume versus the calories you burn. Physical activity does increase the number of calories your body uses, which theoretically could offset the calories obtained from a poor diet. Yet, the quality of those calories matters significantly.

low in nutrients can lead to decreased energy levels, reduced endurance, slower recovery times, and overall poorer performance. In contrast, a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains can boost your fitness levels and help your body recover and repair after exercise.

It’s important to understand that not all calories are created equal. Calories from nutrient-rich foods not only supply the energy you need but also provide your body with vital nutrients to function effectively. On the other hand, calories from sugary snacks, fast food, and processed meals are often referred to as “empty calories” because they provide little to no nutritional benefit.

The idea of outrunning a bad diet also overlooks the metabolic impacts of poor nutritional choices. Foods high in refined sugars and unhealthy fats can

lead to increased risks of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers. Moreover, exercise alone is a relatively inefficient method of losing weight or maintaining a healthy weight. For instance, running a mile might burn approximately 100 calories; the equivalent of a small cookie. Therefore, it becomes clear that an hour of exercise can easily be undone by a few minutes of indulgent eating. This is not to discourage physical activity, which is vital for maintaining muscle strength, improving heart health, and enhancing mental well-being, but to highlight that it should not be viewed as a rationalization to eat whatever you want.

Nutrition also plays a critical role in how effectively you can exercise. A diet that is high in processed foods and

A practical approach to maintaining health is not to choose between diet or exercise, but to integrate both into your lifestyle. The synergy between a nutritious diet and regular physical activity can lead to better health outcomes than either would alone. For instance, regular exercise can help moderate blood sugar levels and improve your cholesterol profile, while a healthy diet can provide the necessary nutrients and energy to fuel your physical activities.

So, while exercise is indispensable for overall health, it is not a license to disregard the quality of your diet. You cannot simply outrun a bad diet. Instead, aim for a balanced approach where nutritious eating and physical activity go hand in hand, reinforcing each other to help you achieve and maintain optimal health. Embrace this dual approach not as a temporary fix but as a permanent lifestyle change that can lead to lasting wellness and vitality.

Can Dental Implants Protect Your Overall Health?

WAYNE A. ALDREDGE, DMD

Dental implants are replacement tooth roots that fit into the jawbone where natural teeth have fallen or been taken out. Implants, usually paired with a dental crown, improve your oral health so you can chew, smile and speak with confidence. But when the space left behind by a missing tooth doesn’t receive an implant, consequences including bone loss, premature aging, even malnutrition can lead to poor health.   Damage from a missing tooth first shows up in the jaw, which might surprise you. We know our jawbone holds our teeth in place. It turns out teeth return the favor, keeping the bone strong just by eating.

Like all bones, the jawbone periodically renews itself. When we chew, contact between our upper and lower teeth creates a force that pushes down to the roots. That pressure signals the bone to release new cells to reinforce its strength.

Without a root prompting regeneration, the bone disappears, or resorbs, compromising the structure of the jaw and the health of remaining teeth.

On either side of the now-empty space neighboring teeth move in, sometimes leaning or turning in the process. Once moved, these teeth will no longer line up with the opposite tooth. Again, bone under the teeth is not stimulated and begins to dissolve. The cycle of bone and tooth loss could be avoided with placement of a dental implant. Performing the same job

as a tooth root, it stimulates bone regrowth, preventing future damage.

If the jaw continues to lose bone, the consequences are more dramatic. Bone and gums shrink and visibly alter the face. The lower jaw noticeably recedes, pulling the chin inwards and drastically changing the profile. In the upper jaw, deteriorating bone means no support for facial skin and muscle. These tissues sag, spreading wrinkles and creating a sunken, aging look.

At this stage, pain in the jaw can make eating uncomfortable, while missing teeth can make eating some foods impossible. Failure to chew adequately can disrupt digestion, resulting in other health problems such as acid reflux.

The National Institutes of Health report that tooth loss negatively impacts nutritional intake. People with more tooth loss ingest significantly less fiber, vitamin C, and other necessary nutrients than those without tooth loss. They’ve named severe tooth loss a significant health issue, especially among the elderly.

Half the adults in this country are at risk of effects from lost teeth. NIH estimate that 50% of US adults aged 20–64 years have lost at least one tooth, and one in six adults aged 65 and over have no teeth.

You can avoid or reduce the dangers listed when you choose to have a dental implant placed where a tooth has been lost.

Dental implants are made of titanium or cubic zirconium, materials

chosen for their durable strength and biocompatibility with gum and bone tissue. An implant is screwed into place, covered and allowed to fully integrate with the jaw. After the implant is securely embedded it is ready to support a crown, bridge or dentures.

In function and appearance, a dental implant perfectly mimics a natural tooth. More importantly, it stops the dominoes of bone loss and tooth loss. Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime so will always provide that protection.

Whether you have recently lost a tooth due to periodontal disease (the number one cause of tooth loss) or dislodged one in a past hockey game, a dental implant may save your remaining teeth, your jawbone and your face. Dental experts suggest you speak with a board-certified dental implant surgeon to see if this treatment will be beneficial to you.

Dr. Wayne A. Aldredge is a periodontist and board-certified dental implant surgeon. He practices in Holmdel, NJ

PLASTIC SURGERY -

Do I qualify for insurance coverage for my surgery?

Many individuals are surprised to hear that their plastic surgery may be covered by insurance. One of the biggest myths out there is that plastic surgery is purely cosmetic in nature and there is always significant outof-pocket cost associated with a procedure. However, depending on the condition that is being treated, one may be eligible for partial or total insurance coverage.

Common procedures that are covered by insurance are the following:

Reconstruction after breast cancer - Breast cancer is mainly treated with surgery. This entails a lumpectomy which is removal of the tumor from the breast or a mastectomy where the entire breast is removed. Following any of these surgeries, women often require reconstruction to restore the breast. There are state and federal laws that mandate that insurance covers reconstructive surgery following treatment of breast cancer. This is true, even if someone has had breast cancer in the past and never got reconstruction or if a revision reconstruction needs to be performed.

Breast reduction - Women who have large pendulous breasts, which are causing symptoms such as back pain, neck pain, inability to exercise, grooving from the bra straps, problems with posture, and macerating skin rashes underneath the breast folds, which are worse in the summer months may be eligible to have a breast reduction surgery covered by insurance. This largely depends on the size of the breasts, and specific requirements based on one’s insurance plan.

Body contouring after weight loss - With the popularity of weight loss achieved through surgery and weight loss drugs, such as Ozempic; many people are living healthier lives after weight loss. One side effect of this is having excess skin in several areas of the body such as the abdomen, and breasts. When certain conditions are met, surgery to remove this excess skin may be covered under insurance.

The first step in figuring out if your procedure will be covered by insurance is to call the office of a plastic surgeon. For example, our staff will review your insurance benefits, and have you come in for a consultation. At the consultation a full health history is obtained and a physical examination is completed. These factors help us determine if your procedure will be covered by insurance.

Dr. Rahul Vemula completed his plastic surgery training in New Orleans, LA at Tulane University. He later returned to the Jersey Shore to practice plastic surgery in August 2016. After working in the area for a few years, Dr. Vemula founded V Plastic Surgery in West Long Branch, NJ in 2020. He believes that patient safety is of utmost importance and every procedure should be approached with precise attention to detail and an aesthetic sense. Dr. Vemula employs the latest techniques & technologies available in both aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgery. He resides on the Jersey Shore with his wife, children and their pug, Bourbon. You can reach his office at (732) 936-7369.

Why Yoga Should Be a Part of Your Healthcare Routine

Abalanced state of the body and mind, the practice of yoga has increasingly become recognized as a valuable component of healthcare. With a shift in recent years to a more comprehensive approach to wellness, yoga’s holistic attributes integrate both the physical and mental components of health.

We all know that physical activity is proven to help in the prevention and management of chronic diseases. Physically, yoga promotes flexibility, strength and balance through the combination of postures and breathing techniques. These physical benefits can help prevent and manage a myriad of health conditions including musculoskeletal issues, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory disorders and chronic pain. Additionally, yoga has been shown to improve overall physical function and quality of life, making it a valuable addition to traditional medical treatments.

Mentally, yoga provides stress relief, relaxation and enhanced mindfulness. The practice encourages present-moment awareness and fosters inner peace and a sense of tranquility. This aspect of yoga is particularly beneficial for managing stress-related disorders, such as anxiety, depression and insomnia. By incorporating mindfulness and meditation practices, yoga offers tools for coping with the daily stresses of life and promoting emotional well-being.

Mary Wilde, Certified Yoga Instructor at Genesis - The Atlantic Club in Manasquan, has spent years promoting the benefits of yoga for overall health and wellbeing and how the practice teaches us use our breath to control the state of our bodies - “The breath and the mind body connection is so significant, as we begin to understand through the practice that we can regulate the nervous system, we can move from a stressful interior environment to a relaxed peaceful, interior environment just by slowing the breath down creating some movement and balance, alignment and posture, and really focusing on our interior self.”

Christina Brooks serves as Marketing Manager, Genesis – The Atlantic Clubs

HEALTHCARE DIRECTORY

HOSPITALS/MEDICAL CENTERS

Monmouth Medical Center

Long Branch

732-222-5200

HMH Jersey Shore University

Medical Center

Neptune 732-775-5500

HMH K. Hovnanian Children’s

Hospital

Neptune 732-775-5500

Meridian Health Systems

Ocean Grove

732-776-8473

HMH Bayshore Medical Center

Holmdel

732-739-5900

Unterberg Children’s Hospital

Long Branch

732-923-7250

HMH Riverview Medical Center

Red Bank

732-741-2700

Meridian Health Foundation

Wall Township

732-751-5100

CentraState Medical Center

Freehold Township

732-431-2000

RWJ Barnabas Health

Eatonton

732-935-1590

Memorial Sloan Kettering

Middletown

848-800-5913

URGENT CARES

Carbon Health Urgent Care

Ocean

732-455-8444

Carbon Health Urgent Care

Eatontown

732-515-5111

Hackensack Meridian Urgent Care with Behavioral Health

Neptune 732-455-5800

Hackensack Meridian Urgent Care

Eatontown 848-309-4911

Family First Urgent Care

Eatontown

732-380-5456

Family First Urgent Care

Oakhurst

732-531-0100

AFC Urgent Care

West Long Branch 732-222-8000

CityMD Wall Urgent Care

Wall 732-280-2600

Immediate Care Medical Walk-In Red Bank 732-933-4100

Immediate Care Medical Walk-In

Hazlet

732-264-5500

Optum Urgent Care

Wall

732-449-1352

Optum Urgent Care

Howell

732-886-7342

IMA Urgent Care

Shrewsbury

732-542-0002

Carbon Health Urgent Care

Howell 732-366-3377

IMA Urgent Care

Middletown 732-471-0400

Hackensack Meridian Urgent Care

Freehold 732-414-6850

Hackensack Meridian Urgent Care

Hazlet 848-308-4600

Hazlet Family Care

Hazlet 732-888-7646

PM Pediatric Urgent Care

Holmdel 732-706-5437

AFC Urgent Care

Aberdeen 732-583-5100

CityMD Urgent Care

Middletown 732-226-8582

CityMD Urgent Care

Freehold 732-226-8580

If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident in New Jersey, you need a law firm with a proven k record and the experience to essively fi i ght to get you the maximum compensation for your personal injur y lawsuit.

For more than 75 years, Drazin and haw has worked tirelessly, treating y client like a member of the family ake sure they get the justice they ve. Clients matter. Results matter. t matters. When you need help, call in and Warshaw.

d razi na ndwa rshaw.com

V PLA GERY V PLASTIC SURGERY

“I can not thank Dr Vemula and his staff enough During the darkest time of my life, they have been the shining light The professionalism, caring, and genuine support they have shown me has been amazing From the smiles I am greeted with walking into the office to the gentle touch of concern, the open and honest conversations and thorough education about reconstruction I received is beyond measure He is a true artist and I now feel like a woman again The results from my surgeries are phenomenal!!! “ -verified patient review

Parent’sCorner

Community Magazine is pleased to introduce this new monthly section which will include things for Monmouth County Parents to do with their kids – as well as different features and advice column! This month, we want to tell you about the Brooklyn Children’s Museum! We asked many Monmouth County parents who did not know such a museum was just an hour away so wanted to tell you about it!

Founded in 1899 as the world’s first children’s museum, Brooklyn Children’s Museum (BCM) is New York City’s largest cultural institution designed especially for families. Proudly based in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, BCM serves 300,000 children and caregivers annually with exhibits and programs grounded in visual arts, music and performance, natural science, and world cultures.

The Brooklyn Children’s Museum exhibits and programs are rooted in the following:

• Interdisciplinary & inquiry-based learning grounded in our collection and encouraging children to explore their world from multiple perspectives.

• Sensory learning through hands-on, physical experiences.

• Appreciation of culture and community, with a focus on socio-emotional learning and interpersonal relationships.

• Stimulating parent-child dialogue and providing family resources.

• Empowering children to think of themselves as agents of community change and inspire responsible and civic engagement.

The museum is located at 145 Brooklyn Avenue and is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10am to 5pm. Check out their website at BrooklynKids.org to plan your visit!

Parents - what are some hidden gem activities to do with your kids? Send us ideas at info@communitymagazinenj.com.

TEACHER FEATURE

NAME Bryan Hackett

YEARS TEACHING 17

SUBJECT TEACHING Guidance Counselor

PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT

Asbury Park School District

What do you love about teaching, and what keeps you coming back each day? I absolutely love being able to help a student and their family in academics and life demands.  It’s so exciting to guide them in education, after graduation plans and future opportunities.

What is the most challenging thing about working with kids? Limited resources, lack of staff, changes of postCovid

What was your own school experience like as a kid? Did you enjoy school? My own experience as a kid was challenging and I did not have much (if any) support available. Due to this experience, I did not like school growing up.

If you could add one new subject that every kid would have to take in school, what would it be and why? Entrepreneurship. It would be a great asset for every student to take in school. This will provide a foundation and understanding of commerce, the fluidity of the modern economy, and importance of multiple streams of income and knowledge base.

What is the most important thing that your students have taught you? Resiliency, persistence and the need to utilize available resources.

Are you a teacher? Do you want to be featured in Community Magazine? Email us at info@communitymagazinenj.com for a questionnaire!

NJ Leaf in Freehold is Central Jersey’s premier destination for exceptional craft cannabis products and service!

NJ Leaf is pharmacist-owned, women-owned, and, most importantly, locally-owned. We don’t just serve the community, we’re part of the community, supporting local causes and o ering generous discounts to military veterans, medical patients, seniors, first responders, and more.

With our ever-expanding product selection, elegant design, highly-trained Wellness Advisors, and a sta pharmacist available for consultation, NJ Leaf provides a unique experience from start to finish!

IN MONMOUTH COUNTY to Cut Carbs

(while still indulging in a fabulous meal)

BY RYAN LOUGHLIN

With summer fast approaching, the realization that bathing suit season is upon us is not lost on anyone. And though it’s been fun spending all winter gorging ourselves on noticeably unhealthy meals while hiding under bulky sweaters and heavy coats, it’s officially time to snap out of that state of mind.

Low carb and no carb diets can be effective ways to shed a few pounds quickly, but who wants to sacrifice the enjoyment of going out to eat? Nobody. Luckily, you don’t have to, as Monmouth County is ripe with restaurants that offer up protein-heavy dishes without the carbs. Here are a few of our favorite dishes to order when bread is the enemy.

The Greek Spot (Ocean/Red Bank)

Mediterranean food has a reputation for being healthy in general, but at The Greek Spot, (which has locations in both Red Bank and Ocean) you can expect it to be delicious as well. Chicken, lamb or pork souvlaki skewers work as a fabulous pairing for a Greek salad, and they become downright addicting when dunked in either a bit of tzatziki or their amazing spicy feta dip (which also works brilliantly when spread on a pita if carbs are not a problem for you). The Ocean location mostly does take-out, but The Greek Spot in Red Bank is a gorgeous restaurant, perfect for a lovely night out. TheGreekSpotNJ.com

Mutiny BBQ Co. (Asbury Park) ▶

Easily one of the most brilliant American culinary contributions, barbecue can be as fantastic option for those looking to limit their carb intake. And since the slow smoked meat is supremely flavorful and moist all on its own, you really can skip the sugary bbq sauces altogether. One of the best spots to take on this meaty mission is at Mutiny BBQ. Options are plentiful here at this Asbury Park smokehouse, as you can choose from such classics as brisket, pulled pork, carved turkey or sausage links, all of which can be ordered on their own or mixed into a combo plate for those looking to sample them all. Pair with a side of homemade collard greens for the win. MutinyBBQ.com

The Chapter House (Howell) ▶

While classic pub grub might not be the first thing that pops in your head when you are thinking of eating healthy, if lowering your carb intake is the goal it can actually be pulled off fairly painlessly at a spot like The Chapter House in Howell. The answer to your prayers sits right in the midst of their menu in the form of the humble buffalo wing. Chapter House’s kitchen puts out some of the best in all of Monmouth County and while you can choose from a selection of sauces, the standard buffalo is our pick. Wings are available in single and double orders or if you really want to feel like you are being healthy, you can opt for the buffalo chicken salad, which features grilled buffalo chicken, romaine lettuce, celery, shredded carrots and cherry tomatoes all topped with their homemade blue cheese dressing. ChapterHouseNJ.com

◀ Red Horse by David Burke (Rumson)

Possibly the most obvious (and indulgent) option for those looking to cut carbs is a big juicy steak. And at Red Horse by David Burke, you can sink your teeth into a variety of them, including an 8-ounce filet mignon or American Wagyu strip, a 12-ounce NY strip or a 22-ounce bone-in dryaged ribeye. Those looking to share can opt for the 38-ounce dry-aged porterhouse or the 40 ounce dry-aged tomahawk ribeye, each of which are meant to be split. But the carb-free options here don’t end with beef, as Red Horse also offers a full sushi menu. Why not start your meal with a few pieces of yellowtail or salmon sashimi and a seaweed salad before the main course arrives? Sounds like a plan. RedHorseByDB.com

Your pets can be celebrities too. Send in a photo to info@CommunityMagazineNJ.com!

AXL OF LONG BRANCH GIDGET OF BRADLEY BEACH

JOHN OF ASBURY PARK RAIDER OF LONG BRANCH

HERMES OF ASBURY PARK

Pet Celebrity Spotlight: Hermes of Asbury Park

We spoke with Hermes’ owner Maria to get the inside scoop on her fabulous bull terrier, Hermes. Here is what she had to say:

How did you end up getting Hermes? We found our breeder, Delicious Bull Terriers online. We singled this breeder out because they followed the Puppy Culture training technique, which starts conditioning puppies at 4 weeks. The only weird thing was that we didn’t get to pick our puppy. The breeder decided which dog we would get. We lucked out with this guy.

How old is he? Hermes is 5 years old.

How did he get his name? We liked the name Hermes because it comes from Greek mythology and it’s a bit unique. Some people think he was named after Hermès of Paris, but he’s not that fancy.

What are some of Hermes’ favorite things to do? Hermes is a big snuggler, and a 74lb lap dog. He loves tennis balls and sticks, but mostly he enjoys meeting people on our walks around Asbury Park and getting lots of pets from his adoring fans.

Bradley

(Photo Credit: Bradley Beach Elementary School)

Beach Rescue Squad hosts Pre-K students

Belmar Hosts Flag-Raising Ceremony for First Responders’ Month

Awonderful time had by all at the flag-raising ceremony to commemorate our inaugural First Responders’ Month. A very special thanks to all our firefighters, police, water rescue team, lifeguards and EMTs — and of course, to Maria Rondinaro and John Walsh for organizing the day!

30th Annual Monmouth Beach PTO Run a Success

Congratulations to all who turned out to run and support the Monmouth Beach School!

Commissioner Somers (MBS Class of 76’ and daughter Maddie (MBS Class of 2014) made the race. MBFD firefighter Kevin King made his annual run in full turnout gear! Recreation Committee Chair Darren Weinstein, MB First Aid Captain Ellen Marowitz also participated. Great Job by the PTO! Keep on Swimmin Dolphins!

(Photo/Caption Credit: Borough of Monmouth Beach)

(Photo/Caption Credit: Belmar Councilwoman Caitlin Donovan)

Dinner Show

Saturday, June 1

Restaurant: Colts Neck Inn Steak House in Colts Neck

The Cozmix Band – 8 pm ColtsNeckInnSteakHouse.com

Sunday, June 2

Restaurant: Tim McLoone’s Supper Club in Asbury Park

The Sixties Rock N Roll Revue - 7 pm TimMcLoonesSupperClub.com

Thursdays, (June 6, 13, 20 and 27)

Restaurant: The Cabin in Freehold Country Night 5 pm-10 pm (Live music begins at 7 pm) TheCabinNJ.com

Thursdays, (June 6, 13, 20 and 27)

Restaurant: The Columns in Avon Lobsterpalooza – 5 pm. Live music and chances to win lobster dinners. TheColumnsNJ.com

Tuesday, June 18

Restaurant: Donovan’s Reef in Sea Bright

Tie Dye Tuesday (Grateful Dead and Jam Band show) - 6-10 pm. DonovansReefBeachBar.com

Tuesday, June 18

Restaurant: 9th Avenue Pier N&D Electric Duo – 6:30-9:30 pm. 9thAvePier.com

Sunday, June 23

Restaurant: St. Stephen’s Green in Spring Lake The Bantry Boys - 6 pm. SSGPub.com

Are you a local restaurant which has live music or a special event coming up? Email us at info@ communitymagazinenj.com. For a small price ity will be included in all of our zones – more than

Four-legged Fun!

A roundup of pet-friendly events

DOGS NIGHT OUT WOOFSTOCK

A night to dine, shop + stroll with your dog. Over 20 vendors and 13 rescues attending. There will be a splash park, free dog leash training session, dog contests and live music by Madison Avenue. 5 pm, Thursday, June 6

Keyport Mini Park, 31 Butler St., Keyport

RESCUE RIDGE’S HOLLYWOOF 2024

Annual fundraiser featuring vendors, food, pet products, live music, petting zoo, magicians, impersonators, wildlife show, wag bags and more. 2-7 pm, Saturday, June 22 (rain date June 23)

ShoreTown Ballpark, 2 Stadium Way, Lakewood

PAINT YOUR PET

Paint a forever memory of your adorable animal. 11 am - 1 pm, Saturday, June 22

Doggie Sweets, 15 Morris Ave. Unit 119, Long Branch

FRIDAY NIGHT BITES

A free event for dog owners and their furry friends. Bring your pup and your friends to this double-gated dog park, where you can relax and listen to music while mingling with other pet parents. Enjoy complimentary snacks, soft drinks, and treats from a sponsoring pet food manufacturer. This event is BYOB.

4-7 pm, Fridays through October

The Hungry Puppy, 1288 Rt 33, Farmingdale

Know of upcoming community pet events? Send to us at info@communitymagazinenj.com

No one plans on having

heart valve disease.

But you should have a plan for it.

Make a plan with New Jersey’s top TAVR program.

RWJBarnabas Health offers the state’s most innovative valve replacement procedures—our patients experience less pain, fewer complications, and quicker recovery time, often returning home the day after the procedure. Managing your heart health is a lifelong journey; know that TAVR is equally an interventional cardiology procedure as it is a surgical procedure. Trust the health system with the largest network of providers, hospitals, and adult and pediatric cardiac surgery programs in the state for all of your heart’s needs. Your heart’s in the right place at RWJBarnabas Health. Make plans at rwjbh.org/tavr

Community Commentary

What were #MonmouthCounty residents doing during the Solar Eclipse of 2024?

Solar Eclipse Crafting! #SpartanLegacy

(Photo credit: Ocean Township School District)

Asbury Park Police Department Teaching the L.E.A.D. (Law Enforcement Against Drugs & Violence) Program

School Resource Officer (SRO) Chenice Wesley Is Instructing Almost 100 Third Graders in Asbury Park on the Harms of Drugs and Violence

The L.E.A.D. (Law Enforcement Against Drugs & Violence) program is currently being taught to 44 third grade students at Thurgood Marshall Elementary School and 55 third grade students at Bradley Elementary School. L.E.A.D. is a nationwide nonprofit that works with communities to help students understand the dangers of drugs and violence.

School Resource Officer (SRO) at Asbury Park Police Department, Chenice Wesley, was trained by L.E.A.D. to teach the program’s proven effective curriculum. Now, during the school day, she’s giving almost 100 students in the third grade in Asbury Park age-appropriate lessons on the dangers of drugs and violence as well as teaching them how to set goals, manage their emotions and make wise decisions.

“We know that SRO Wesley is doing an excellent job teaching our evidence-based program,” said Nick DeMauro, CEO of L.E.A.D. “We look forward to seeing the impact that she has on her third grade students, given that the curriculum implemented by our organization not only emphasizes the importance of drug and violence prevention but helps children to build skills pertaining to effective communication and conflict resolution as well.”

L.E.A.D. provides services “On The Street” and “In The Classroom” as it brings law enforcement and communities closer together. The “In The Classroom” program is taught by more than 5000 trained instructors in 45 states. L.E.A.D. has a proven effective, law enforcement-focused anti–drug, anti–violence curriculum for K-12 students in the U.S. The L.E.A.D. curriculum is taught over the course of a 10-week program to educate youth on how they can make smart decisions without the involvement of drugs or violence.

Commentary for Next Month: What is your favorite Jersey Shore beach and why? Send us a photo and community commentary to be featured. E-mail info@communitymagazinenj.com

SRO Wesley says that the most rewarding part about being a L.E.A.D. instructor is getting to see the excitement on the students’ faces when she sees them in their classes and in the hallway.

“It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that the kids are joyful to see me both inside and outside of the classroom, due to the material that I’m teaching them and the time I’ve been spending with them,” said SRO Wesley.

“Also, it’s been a pleasure getting to witness the moments of

Middletown resident - New Jersey First Lady Tammy Murphy and her staff watching the eclipse!

(Photo Credit: Tammy Murphy)

light bulbs going off in the children’s heads when they connect the information from the lessons in the program with how they’re going to keep themselves away from alcohol, drugs and violence,” she added.

The activities incorporated into the L.E.A.D. curriculum reinforce the information from the units while breaking up the graveness that can come with the topics, says SRO Wesley.

“The fun games and skits that follow

each of the lessons are not only a favorite aspect of mine about the program, but they’re easily the students’ favorite part about the curriculum as well,” she said. “They allow the kids to bond more closely with me as well as with their peers. Additionally, they help them to understand the material on a deeper level and let them take a break from the seriousness of the subject.”

SRO Wesley is certain that a stronger

relationship between the police officers of Asbury Park and the rest of the folks in the town will continue developing when the children complete the L.E.A.D. program.

“With the students’ confidence of having a familiar face and a trusting person in law enforcement once having gone through the ten weeks, they’re likely to influence the rest of the community in Asbury Park to believe that we can all be one unit,” said SRO Wesley.

RWJBarnabas Health’s The Institute for Nursing Excellence Sets New Standard for Nurse Education, Professional Development

New facilities open at the Eisenhower in Livingston and Squier Hall in Oceanport

RWJBarnabas Health’s The Institute for Nursing Excellence is elevating education and professional development for its nurses. Through hands-on training, utilization of AI, and active simulations, RWJBarnabas Health nurses now have access to two state-of-the-art training facilities focused on supporting them in the nursing journey. The newly opened Eisenhower facility in Livingston, and Squier Hall at Fort Monmouth in Oceanport, is also headquarters for the Center for Professional Development, Innovation and Research (CPDIR). These facilities are strategically located to accommodate the entire system throughout the state, and in addition to boundless educational and training opportunities, they are also being used by several cross-functional teams.

The Institute for Nursing Excellence offers a wide range of educational programs and training led by experienced nurse educators that are designed to support nurses at all levels by providing opportunities to grow, develop new skills, and reach their full potential.

“I truly believe RWJBarnabas Health nurses and the outstanding care they provide every day sets our health system apart from others and is a reason why our patients continue to choose us to be their partners in health,” said Mark E. Manigan, RWJBarnabas Health President and Chief Executive Officer. “I am proud of the extraordinary team of world-class physicians and world-class nurses, and I will add there is no better place to be a nurse leader, a nurse, or a nurse educator than this health system.”

The two facilities offer large, spacious classrooms and hightech simulation labs that host regional orientation programs for newly hired nurses, as well as specialty courses and other educational opportunities to the RWJBarnabas Health nursing workforce to help them expand their knowledge and improve their practice, which translates into better, more streamlined care for patients. The Institute’s role is also to ensure RWJBarnabas Health nurses are providing care that reflects the latest industry best practices as the nursing profession, like many industries, is constantly evolving with new innovations and research.

Additionally, nursing education has a significant impact on patient outcomes, according to multiple studies, which show

that having better educated nurses results in better patient outcomes, lower mortality, lower readmission rates and shorter lengths of stay. The findings indicate that nurses who are not only skilled but also engaged and satisfied are more likely to keep practicing, which leads to greater nurse retention and lower turnover rates.

Developed over a period of years, The Institute builds upon RWJBarnabas Health’s CPDIR, which serves to advance clinical excellence and was created to align nursing practice across the entire health system, foster professional development, innovation, and research, promote interprofessional education, and enhance collaboration with academic partners and across teams of providers—nurses, physicians, physician assistants, and other ancillary personnel.

Implementing and educating nurses on systemwide protocols helps to promote consistency in care and reduce redundancy across the RWJBarnabas Health system. Bridging the gap between the classroom and real-life experience through consistent orientation programs for nurses and assistive personnel, standardized specialty training, and simulation-based education programs ensures that no matter where patients enter the system, they will receive the same level of outstanding, coordinated care.

Certification courses are available for nurses’ pursuing careers in emergency care, pediatrics, critical care, intensive care, neonatal intensive care, perinatal care, oncology, the operating room, and medical and surgical units. The Institute also offers registered nurse graduate residency programs, leadership training, and workshops for those who wish to serve as preceptors or bedside nurses who mentor and oversee recent hires.

Combined with RWJBarnabas Health’s training facility located at Squire Hall at Fort Monmouth in Oceanport, the Institute for Nursing Excellence at the Eisenhower in Livingston allows nurses across the system greater access and the ability to take certification support classes and pursue professional growth opportunities closer to home or where they work.

For more information, visit the Institute for Nursing Excellence at:  www.rwjbh.org/thenursinginstitute

The Long Branch Elks Lodge #742 Annual Charity Ball Thursday, May 9, 2024 • 6PM

150 Garfield Avenue

2024 Honorees:

POLICE OFFICER OF THE YEAR: Christian DeFazio

FIRE FIGHTER OF THE YEAR: David Phillips

VOLUNTEER FIRE FIGHTER OF THE YEAR: Miguel Guarda

EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIAN OF THE YEAR: Kevin King

ELKS COMMUNITY HERO OF THE YEAR: Lance Fanning

(Photo Credit: Long Branch Police Department)

FIRST RESPONDERS

Q & A

NAME: Will Peterpaul

YEARS AS A FIRST RESPONDER: 3 years

TYPE OF FIRST RESPONDER: Firefighter

PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT OR VOLUNTEERING: Wanamassa Fire Company

TOWN OF RESIDENCY: Interlaken, NJ

What initially made you want to be a first responder? I’ve always been interested in public service, more so law enforcement, since I was a little kid. Then, in high school, I was looking for more ways to work within the community and saw Wanamassa advertising coincidentally, looking for more firefighters.

What do you find to be most rewarding about this kind of work? The most rewarding aspect is making a positive difference in the community. It’s great to be able to build trust and help others within the community. Most jobs don’t provide that opportunity.

What is the hardest aspect of the job? The hardest aspect is the irregular hours. I work part-time and am a full-time student pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Homeland Security at Monmouth University, so sometimes I find it difficult to manage my time.

Do any aspects of the job ever scare you? Dangers come with the job, but I’ve never been scared. You cannot be scared when people are relying on you to do the job you’ve signed up to do.

What was your most memorable experience on the job so far? The most memorable experience for me is becoming a part of the water rescue team. I love to surf, swim, and really anything that has to do with the water, so the water rescue team is something I’m very passionate about. Are you a first responder? Do you want to be featured in Community Magazine? Email us at info@communitymagazinenj.com for a questionnaire!

West End Farmers Market

9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursdays from June 6-Oct. 17 West End Park, Long Branch

Asbury FRESH Farmers & Makers Market

9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sundays through Oct. 27 Press Plaza (between Cookman and Lake Avenues), Asbury Park

Bell Works FRESH Farmers & Makers Market

11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays Bell Works, Holmdel

Broadwalk FRESH

5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursdays from June 6-Sept. 26 Broad Street, Red Bank

Bradley Beach Main Street Market

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the first Saturday of each month Riley Park, Bradley Beach