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

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Check out our digital editions online at monmouthcommunity.com

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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 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 G E N A A N S E L L- L A N D E BILL CL ARK M AT T D O H E R T Y PA M E L A D O L L A K REBECC A KING L I L I A N N PA R A S R AY S C H W E I B E R T DESIGN DIRECTOR DEBBIE MCKENNA PUBLISHER AND OPERATOR D I R E C T C O M M U N I C AT I O N S & C O N S U LT I N G , L L C

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

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from

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Michele Burrell, Asbury Park Looking forward to new beginnings.

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

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Howell Students Sing for Seniors

A

merry and bright afternoon was had by all last month, as a group of students from Howell High School came out to sing holiday favorites to the seniors at the Freehold Township Senior Center.

Photo credit: Freehold Township Facebook page

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www.shrewsburyvw.com | (732) 945-5634 MonmouthCommunity.com JANUARY 2025

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Freehold Regional Students Take on Team Challenge

S

tudents at Freehold Regional High School recently participated in a Team Challenge hosted by the Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce. Colts Neck High School won 1st Place, Marlboro High School won 2nd Place, and Freehold High School won 3rd Place.

The purpose of the Team Challenge is to provide high school students with hands-on experience in team building, creative problem-solving, and dealing with the ethical decision-making process of real-world business problems. Using the Markkula Center for Applied Ethics framework from Santa Clara University, teams from the high schools explore business issues that have complex ethical implications. Over several weeks, the teams work together to develop solutions that show their understanding of the issues, demonstrate their use of the Markkula decision-making framework in working through the conflicts, and illustrate evidence of their teamwork and presentation skills. Each team presents its findings and solutions to a panel of judges from the local business community.

Photo and editorial credit: Freehold Regional High School Facebook page

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for Everyone P

ost-holiday blues got you down?

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

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

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

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

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

12

making homemade holiday decorations.

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Virtual Events Many events like live concerts, theater

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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January EVENTS CALENDAR

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

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

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

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

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

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

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Weddings and Special Events

To the bride and groom…

Community Magazine’s Guide to Weddings and Special Events

BY EMMA SYLVIA

G

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

But then there is the realization that in order to

Charlie's of Lincroft ­— The Great Room

16

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

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

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

GUIDE

JUST MARRIED

WEDDINGS AND SPECIAL EVENTS GUIDE

Charlie's of Lincroft ­— The Wine Room

The Venue…

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

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

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

• The Wine Room — The Wine Room is set beneath

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

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

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

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

MonmouthCommunity.com JANUARY 2025

17

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

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

CM: Anything else the bride and groom should know?

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

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

The Caterers …

Opting to have the food brought into your event space?

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

Head to FalcosCatering.com for more information.

Pantano Home and Garden

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

CM: What’s your personal favorite floral arrangement?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Get a quote at njweddingpros.com

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WEDDINGS AND SPECIAL EVENTS GUIDE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Silver Anniversary

Freehold Montessori Celebrates 25 Years of Unique Learning

BY EMMA SYLVIA

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ore than 150 years ago, Dr. Maria Montessori developed and expanded upon a new type of learning for the classroom. Rather than having children delve into a textbook, the newly founded Montessori method championed hands-on activity, collaboration, and observation. This is exemplified today at Freehold Montessori School (FMS). Head of School, Yogeeta G. lauds the methodology, and how this approach has led the school to celebrate its 25th anniversary this year.

Yogeeta – who goes by Ms. Yogi at the school, explains her love for the Montessori method after sending her own two children to FMS. “I love how it’s more hands-on and that there are no screens or electronic devices in the classrooms.

All the children are so engaged that they don’t even realize that they’re learning.” One of the cruxes of Montessori pedagogy is the multiage classrooms. FMS enables this approach for its 70-plus students with three separate buildings at the campus. Building 1 is for 18-month-olds to three-year-olds, also known as the Toddler Room, while Buildings 2 and 3 are for three to six-year-olds, or the Primary Classrooms. Ms. Yogi explains, “The multiage classroom is the biggest factor. The third year in the Primary classroom is the student’s Kindergarten year. In other childcare centers, you have a 1-year-old room, a 2-year-old room, etc. Here, students move up from the Toddler Classroom when they’re three years old

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and go into either of the Primary Classrooms. In the Primary classrooms, the veteran students in their second or third year, often become role models for the younger students in the classroom.” The goal of preparing the learning environment is the development of the whole child and developing the love of learning. This means that grace and courtesies are just as important as academic achievements, according to Ms. Yogi.

Ms. Yogi celebrates the fact that the school’s waitlist has grown without much advertising due to the word-of-mouth referrals from parents regarding their love for the unique education system and their trust in the administration and the long-term faculty at FMS. “The parents love it here; they love the multiage classroom, the certified teachers and the long-term staff. It’s the fact that there’s a lot of continuity and that the children are engaged at all times.”

“We are so lucky to be on a campus that is almost 3-acres of property, affording us the opportunity to observe nature year-round. Dr. Montessori said, ‘We must study the correlation between life and its environment. In nature, everything correlates. This is the method of nature.’ FMS is always incorporating the outside world into our classroom.”

Many of the teachers at Freehold Montessori gave their insight into their methods in teaching.

Margaret R. and Evie H., the school’s two Primary head

teachers, explain some of the origins of the methods. Students are naturally curious and eager to discover things, a concept that Dr. Montessori recognized over 150 years ago. As a scientist, she faced barriers to becoming a teacher at a time when men dominated the profession. Dr. Montessori observed the child and prepared the environment – her classroom – to guide each child to their full potential. They explained that this individualistic approach to teaching allows students to both learn from each other and learn at their own pace.

Ms. Margaret, a teacher who has been with FMS for all 25 of its years in existence, remembers the early days of the school.

“When we first started, we only had two children. As new housing developments were built, our enrollment increased, requiring the renovations of all three buildings to accommodate additional students. Twenty-five years in, I’ve been able to keep in touch with these families. Because of Montessori,

the children develop in the same room for three years; they develop a kinship like this is a second home. I feel like this is my second home; I’ve been in this classroom for 25 years.”

Ms. Margaret seems particularly proud of the community that the children foster within the school. “We try to give them the love of learning. By fostering a love of learning, the school creates an environment where students not only thrive academically but also develop emotional and social bonds that endure long after they graduate.

Former students, even those in college, often return to visit, which suggests that these connections are meaningful and important to them. This attachment reflects the positive and supportive atmosphere the school provides, which goes beyond just education.”

Ms. Evie notices that the students at FMS learn to be respectful to themselves and to their friends. “This is their community. They help, support and encourage one another. In our class-

rooms, we have many hands-on learning materials that help children grasp abstract concepts through concrete experiences. Montessori math materials, for example, the Golden Beads, help children develop a deep understanding of numbers and the decimal system.

These concrete learning experiences ensure that children are not just memorizing facts but are comprehending the underlying concepts. Additionally, we place a strong emphasis on language development. At an early age, children develop rich vocabulary through storytelling, reading, and conversation.

Montessori materials like Sandpaper Letters and Moveable Alphabet help children develop phonemic awareness and early writing skills. Furthermore, I plan to continue peace education lessons inside the classroom, so that the students can go out into the world and be mindful of others.”

Toddler teachers Millie B. and Rachel N. discuss their experiences at Freehold Montessori. Ms. Millie says,

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“I’ve been with FMS for almost 15 years. Previously, I had never experienced a Montessori classroom, and then I fell in love with the teachings of the Montessori philosophy. I’ve been here since.”

Ms. Rachel agrees, saying, “I just love coming to FMS and watching these kids grow, helping them to be independent, and moving on to the next building.

I enjoy watching the students engage in the Practical Life area. Practical Life activities include pouring, buttoning, and using tweezers, and are integral to a Montessori classroom.

These activities develop fine motor skills fundamental for writing and other classroom tasks. Additionally, we incorporate activities that build gross motor skills, ensuring that children are physically ready for the demands of more advanced learning environments.”

Teachers aren’t the only ones that laud Freehold Montessori. Melanie Ghaw has her children enrolled in the school and says, “Freehold Montessori is truly an extension of family – under the compassionate care of the team, I have seen my children grow from crawling toddlers to kind, courteous, and able kindergarteners.

Words cannot express my joy and gratitude in seeing my children – and their classmates – thrive under their evolving program, tailored each year for each individual child and the collective student body to create the optimal educa-

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tional ecosystem for all.”

Victoria Passarelli concurs. “Freehold Montessori has truly been a home away from home for our family. Since my older daughter started here at just 18 months old, we’ve felt an incredible sense of support, warmth, and care that’s helped her grow in ways I never imagined.

Now, she has progressed to a primary classroom and my younger daughter has joined the FMS Family, and it’s beautiful to see them both thriving. The teachers guide our children with patience, kindness, and a deep commitment to each child’s unique development. Freehold Montessori has become a special part of our lives, and I am so grateful for everything they’ve given my girls.”

2025 looks to be a bright year for Freehold Montessori. Ms. Yogi is looking forward to seeing continued growth, as the Toddler classroom is expanding to accommodate additional students and there is a potential to start a new first grade classroom. She knows that the Montessori approach, with its unique blend of childled learning and hands-on activities, is often lauded for its effectiveness in preparing children for the academic and social challenges after they graduate. She is ecstatic about the 25th anniversary of the school and the overwhelming support from the families as they go into the new year.

“It’s nice. It’s humbling. It’s great to see something I believe in moving forward.”

BIZBEAT

BY RYAN LOUGHLIN

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

New Barnes and Noble location at Monmouth Mall opens

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

Benchmark Breads opens first retail location in Little Silver

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

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

C

Rolling the dice at Barrio Costero’s Taco Tuesday

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

Bombers Win Gobbler Games!

ongrats to the Freehold Bombers on winning the 2024 Gobbler Games Championship, which was their first tournament and their first championship. Keep up the good work!

Photo and editorial credit: Freehold Township Little League Facebook page

Your Local Printer Based in Little Silver (Monmouth County)

✚ Brochures, Flyers and Direct Mailers ✚ Business Cards and Letterhead ✚ Signs and Banners ✚ Embroidery and Screenprinting ✚ Custom Mugs and Promotional Products

E-mail us at support@tworiverprinting.com for more information on any product!

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

BY RYAN LOUGHLIN

T

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

R Bar Charlie's of Lincroft

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

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

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

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

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

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

Apps skate from straightforward options like sticky buns to

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

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

CharliesOfLincroft.com

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

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

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

Zoe's Emilio's Kitchen

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

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

That’s what this is. Order it.

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

ZoesEmiliosKitchen.com.

Tatum's Table

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

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Turning Point

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

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

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

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

Mmmmm …

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

Go to TatumsTable.com.

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

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

We love to start things off with a New

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

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

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

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

Go to TurningPointRestaurants.com

Tenacious

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Neptune’s Derek DeAngelis braves the ups and downs of entertainment industry success

BY RAY SCHWEIBERT

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n the sports world, it is not uncommon to see athletes brush off personal milestones as insignificant during interviews, asserting that the focus instead always remains on the future and the bigger picture, such as bringing home a championship ring, a title trophy or coveted cup.

The Neptune-born Derek DeAngelis puts things into that sort of perspective in the world of entertainment, where he is best known as Derek D, has landed gigs that have literally taken him to the far corners of the globe, and has had a significant impact on many levels of the industry for about the past 20 years.

His is a career that started on a sort of whim while a college student at William Paterson University. It has since led to many opportunities and awards in multiple entertainment facets, due largely to a high degree of confidence, an outgoing nature, a keen sense of humor and – probably more than anything else – a fierce determination to succeed.

Perusing his resumé (on his website at DerekD.com) might make one wonder how it was possible to fit all this activity into a career, even one spanning nearly two decades thus far. He has hosted scores of live events and TV shows, acted in and did voiceovers for many TV commercials, performed stand-up comedy and acted in films and live theater in both comedic and dramatic roles.

He is perhaps best known for hosting a daily automotive-industry newscast with a comical spin called “Fast Lane Daily” that ran from 2007 to 2016 on multiple Internet platforms, setting records for longevity and Internet-episode counts along the way, and garnering two Webby Awards for Internet excellence.

“I always say I’m kind of a Swiss Army knife – what do you need, I’ve got you,” he says. “I’m a song-and-dance man and I love doing that kind of stuff, but I don’t label myself a singer but as an actor who can sing. I don’t say I’m a dancer but I’m an actor who can dance. I’m aware of the work that strictly dancers and strictly singers put in, so I never say that I’m specifically one or the other, but they’re in my wheelhouse.”

Among DeAngelis’ more recent projects was creating and producing all facets of a live talent competition called “Asbury Park Monologues,” which he emceed for the third time in five years at Asbury Park’s House of Independents in November.

The shows are structured similarly to “American Idol,” and divided into comedic, dramatic and musical theater categories that are judged by a panel of industry professionals. DeAngelis banters with the audience between acts, and local sponsors donate prizes, tickets and gift cards that get raffled off to show-goers between performances.

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“I always wanted to do a show like the ‘Monologues’ at the House of Independents because the venue is perfect for it,” he says. “It can be a delicate dance getting it all together and making it work, but it’s an interesting, fun and different kind of show that a lot of people really enjoy.”

A career unfolds unconventionally Derek DeAngelis, morphed into Derek D the entertainer after seeing an MTV spoof while still a college student.

“I was always outgoing, but I caught the acting bug late, as a sophomore in college,” says the lifelong Monmouth County resident. “I saw this stupid made-for-TV movie called ‘2gether’ about a fake boy band (an MTV parody of such ’90s groups as NSYNC and New Kids on the Block). I thought ‘what the hell, I can do that,’ and it literally ended up being my dumb aha moment.

“I’d find out where auditions were happening, and I would go to the auditions. At first I was not getting anything – nothing – but I kept at it. I told my parents ‘I think I want to be an actor’ and just kept plugging away. I kept my major because I knew it could help me in other facets of the industry (he designed the

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logo, posters and website for ‘Asbury Park Monologues’ using his graphic-arts skills), then started taking acting classes and comedy classes. I would book stuff that didn’t pay just so that I could build up my resumé, and just kept doing that.

“You’re going to get discouraged, you’re going to be broke, you’re going to have many rejections,” he adds. “People have that happen a couple of times and say ‘I’m out of here,’ and if so, it’s

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not meant for you. You have to have the mental fortitude and the gumption to do it. For me, there was no Plan B. I’m never going to be a graphic designer. I never will and never was. But I use the skill set to help me in other ways.”

Talent agencies help DeAngelis and other actors locate potential work.

Today actors can create video clips of themselves at home to be distributed for possible auditions – a byproduct at least in part prompted by the pandemic.

If casting directors like what they see on the videos, actors are then summoned to audition in person for various roles.

“I used to be in New York City for anywhere from three to five days a week auditioning,” he says. “Now I don’t have to spend the money on the train or any of that stuff, which is great. I can make video clips at home, my agents distribute the clips for potential auditions, and we go from there.”

As a seasoned professional, some of the opportunities that went his way over the years included shooting two Heineken beer commercials in Taiwan, four commercials in Spain for a Volkswagen model only marketed in Europe, and a three-part series for Formula E Racing in Monaco sponsored by Swiss luxury watchmaker Tag Heuer.

The Tag Heuer series won DeAngelis a Telly Award (honoring creativity across all TV mediums), and he received another Telly Award for a motorsports-related series called “Sidetracked with Derek D.” Both of those latter opportunities, he surmises, were likely re-

lated to the popularity he gained in the auto industry from his nearly 10 years as host of “Fast Lane Daily,” which included more than 2,300 episodes. “(‘Fast Lane Daily’) was a daily show about car news, but funny,” he says. “In the beginning I was just the host, mainly just a talking head, but as time went on, I became one of the producers and one of the main comedy writers.

“I love cars too, but one of the great things we were able to do with that show was to draw people together through a common thread. We’d get emails from wives and girlfriends who would say ‘I’m not really into cars, but my husband loves cars, so I watch the show with him since Derek is funny and makes me laugh. But I also learn some cool stuff along the way that I can later talk with my husband and other people about.’ That was the gist of it. You could watch, learn something cool, and laugh along the way.

“That show was such a great experience,” he adds. “Alan Kaufman is my writing partner and also one of my best friends. He and I wrote a sitcom together that’s based on ‘Fast Lane Daily’ that we’re currently pitching.”

Speaking from the heart The rocky road that the entertainment industry can be prompted DeAngelis to put together an unvarnished video clip of the potential pitfalls of trying to navigate it. The industry is certainly not for the faint of heart, and in the video he essentially states – in a passionate way – that for every part of the iceberg seen above the surface representing success, there is much more unseen below the surface that represents rejection, hardships and failure.

Entitled “Dear Entertainment Industry,” the clip is just over 10 minutes long and can be seen in the New Videos link at DerekD.com. It is slated to be shown in March at the 23rd annual Garden State Film Festival (see GSFF.org). DeAngelis wrote the content and Kaufman was the script supervisor.

“I’m talking to the main camera (three cameras were used at different angles) as if that camera is the Entertainment Industry personified,” he says. “It’s what I would say to you after working for you for 20 years. We released it in August and I’m super proud of it.

“It’s gotten some great feedback. I have friends who are musicians, singers or dancers who are like ‘I’m watching it, and you’re saying what I’m thinking.’ You know you’re hitting the right strings when people say that. It felt good.”

The video is a kind of passionate summary pointing out that for every yes to an audition, there are usually several noes to others.

“I didn’t want to come across like I’m complaining, or like I’m angry, but I wanted to get the message across that there are frustrations, and that, Entertainment Industry, you need to do better. You’re very hypocritical about a lot of things, and while you claim to be the most inclusive, it’s wrought with the opposite.

“I mention in there that people often tell me, ‘Hey, you made it. You’re doing what you love and you do it for a living,’ which is true. But I don’t feel that way yet. I feel like I constantly have to try to move forward, and every time I fail, I’ve fail forward.”

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For more information, please call 201-400-6386 or e-mail admin@communitymagazinenj.com

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MonmouthCommunity.com JANUARY 2025

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HEALTH CORNER

Prioritizing

HEART HEALTH in the New Year

BY MAIA FRANCO

T

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

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

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

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

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

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

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

Student Successes

Dinner Show — AND A —

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

Pat Guadagno Jamian’s Food and Drink, 79 Monmouth St. Red Bank JamiansFood.com MONDAY, WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY, FRIDAY AND SATURDAY, ALL MONTH LONG • 6 p.m.

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

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

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

Vinyl Traction Charley’s Ocean Grill, 29 Avenel Blvd. Long Branch CharleysOceanGrill.com THURSDAY, JAN. 16 • 7 p.m. (Doors at 5:30 p.m.)

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

Quincy Mumford Deal Lake Bar + Co,600 Main St. Loch Arbour DealLakeBarCo.com SATURDAY, JAN. 25 • 9 p.m.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MonmouthCommunity.com JANUARY 2025

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Freehold Township Administrator Valesi Presented with Award

T

he Freehold Township Committee is thrilled to announce that the New Jersey Municipal Managers Association has awarded our Township Administrator, Peter Valesi, the 2024 Outstanding Managers Award for his exceptional work on shared service agreements.

In 2024, Freehold Township is expected to benefit from $2.1 million in shared service revenue through 61 agreements, 24 of those involving 58 employees across various departments working in other municipalities on a daily and ongoing basis. Congratulations to Peter Valesi on receiving this prestigious award! The Township Committee is grateful for your 16 years of dedicated service to Freehold Township.

Editorial and photo credit: Freehold Township Facebook page

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FIRST RESPONDERS

Q&A

Name: Ryan Dullea Title: Deputy Fire Marshal Place of Employment: Westfield Fire Department, Monmouth County Fire Marshal Office, Manasquan Hook and Ladder Fire Company Town of Residency: Brielle

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

A: I actually joined as a volunteer firefighter when I was still in high school. I had just completed playing football and basketball and was looking to serve my community. One of my teammates and one of my football coaches had convinced me to look into it and join the fire service. From there, I was entered into the Monmouth County Fire Academy and the rest is history. I am still a volunteer for the Manasquan Hook & Ladder Fire Company and a career firefighter/EMT for the town of Westfield. Things have come full circle, as I am now an instructor at the Monmouth County Fire Academy. I am also a Deputy Fire Marshal for Monmouth County, and a Municipal Technical Advisor for the Department of Community Affairs.

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

A: The most rewarding part of being a firefighter is being able to provide an essential service and help people in a time when they are faced with uncertainty and stress. Those challenges require you to make decisions in dynamic environments with incomplete information.

Q: What is the hardest aspect of the job?

A: The hardest aspect of firefighting is that it is not only mentally and physically exhausting, but in a moment's notice you may be tasked with one of the most difficult scenarios without much context or details and have to make a decision that could be the difference between life and death. Another hard aspect is the commitment that your family has to make. For example, in a moment's notice we have to abandon plans or holidays due to a call or a required shift. I am very fortunate to have a

very supportive and compassionate support system with my wife and children.

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

A: I would be lying if I said that nothing scares me about the job as a firefighter. We have the potential to face many different risky scenarios, and in the world we live in, those types of calls are evolving and expanding daily. To combat that fear, I try to take every opportunity to learn about new trends, previous trends and to try to better my fellow firefighters and myself daily. As I said before, we are required to make decisions in split seconds, and in terms of fire behavior within seconds fire can double and conditions can change rapidly creating more hazardous situations. It is important to learn why, and how we make decisions to better improve your thought process and decision making.

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

A: There are often times where I look back on my career thus far and ask myself how I ended up where I am. I have had the privilege and opportunity to contribute to many successful operations and experience many amazing events. One recently that comes to mind is a call where we were called to a middle-aged male in cardiac arrest. After a quick response and assessment, our team was able to regain pulses by utilizing a AED and performing CPR. A few months later, that patient returned to our firehouse for lunch with the responders, and he had made a full recovery. To be able to be part of a team that was able to perform at a high level and have a successful resuscitation is amazing, but what is an even better feeling is that this husband/father gets to continue raising his family after a scary encounter.

MonmouthCommunity.com JANUARY 2025

35

Ditch the Mess!

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

BY EMMA SYLVIA

J

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

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

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

Q: What makes Got Clutter unique?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information, visit @gotclutter on Instagram.

MonmouthCommunity.com JANUARY 2025

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PARENT'S CORNER

Playing it Safe Preventing Childhood Sports Injuries

BY MAIA FRANCO

M

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

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

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

• Swelling or bruising that doesn’t go away.

• Decreased performance or reluctance to participate in the sport.

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

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

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

• Swelling and tenderness in a localized area.

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

Teacher Feature

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

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

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

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

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

Q: What was your school experience like as a kid? Did you enjoy school?

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

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

A: I think music appreciation classes would benefit each child’s emotional development. Music can lighten our spirits, comfort us in hard times, and be the friend we need when we are lonely. What is more exhilarating than having your whole body bursting with excitement at the sound of a live overture?

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

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

MonmouthCommunity.com JANUARY 2025

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BIGGIE SMALLS of Freehold

COOPER of Freehold

RASCAL B. JONES of Freehold

ZENTON, FLOWER, PUGSLY, FLAIR, MAC, CHEESE, RICHARD STILLMAN, S'MORES, and ROMEO of Freehold SNOOPY of Morganville

ZIGGY of Freehold

Your pets can be celebrities too.

Send in a photo to ryan@CommunityMagazineNJ.com

pet resort & hotel

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

Four-legged fun!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your journey to a happier, better-behaved dog begins now!

To learn more, visit https://www.greenleafpetresort.com/ oakhurst/ or give us a call at (732) 272-0800.

MonmouthCommunity.com JANUARY 2025

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Fly Like an Eagle

Monmouth County’s Eagle Scouts work to improve their communities

BY EMMA SYLVIA

E

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

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

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

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

With this kind of dedication to the

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

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

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The 2024 ATHENA Awards Honors Women Across New Jersey

BY EMMA SYLVIA

T

he Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual ATHENA Awards this past November, and the Chamber is already getting ready for their 2025 season.

Executive Director of the Monmouth Regional Chamber, Terese Rölke, delves into the Chamber’s origins, the impact of the ATHENA Awards, and the 2025 calendar year.

Rölke began in the Chamber in March of 2013 as a member.

After volunteering and adoring the people that she met through various chamber events, she became the face of the Chamber and was elected to the Board. Realizing she was already volunteering ample amounts of time, Rölke threw her hat in the ring after the executive stepped down in 2019. “This past December was my fifth anniversary,” Rölke says. “I started right before Covid, and now here we are, five years later – and we’re thriving. I just love what I do. I love helping people, I love connecting people, I love supporting people. It’s not a job if you love what you do.”

In January of 2016, the Monmouth Chamber merged with the Freehold Chamber, permitting it to be a county-wide resource. “It was a really good combination of groups,” Rölke lauds.

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“We had most of our members from the Bayshore area and covered most of the eastern part of the county; and Freehold covered the center and western part of the county.” After Covid, the Monmouth Regional Chamber went virtual, and has been extremely active and successful since. “We are a very active chamber. We have anywhere from eight to 12 events a month, which is a lot for a small staff.” The Chamber hosts a Friday morning breakfast meeting, lunches for their Strong Women in Business group, and hosts a young professionals group. Another major event the Chamber hosts is ChamberCast, a podcast run out of Bell Works in Holmdel, where different panels discuss various topics, from inspirational to educational.

Perhaps the cornerstone of the Chamber’s work is the ATHENA Awards. ATHENA International is a nonprofit that amplifies and celebrates girls, women and their allies throughout the world. Rölke explains further: “ATHENA recognizes people in the community who excel in their business or their job, give back to their communities, and support women to become the best leaders that you can

be. That’s what sets this award and these people apart – you have to be helping women to excel.”

The Monmouth Regional Chamber is the only licensed organization in the state of New Jersey that is able to host the ATHENA Awards, with this being their 39th consecutive year hosting the awards.

The ATHENA Awards accepts nominations for two distinct categories: the Leadership Award, and the Young Professional Leadership Award, specifically for those 40 years of age or younger (this being the most recent award to be celebrated, beginning in 2015). After the calculation of nominees’ information, five finalists in each category are determined.

BMW of Freehold has been the Diamond sponsor of the ATHENA Awards for well over a decade. The finalists of the awards are honored at a dinner reception at BMW Freehold. “These are top quality people,” Rölke says. “They get connected to each other, which is great.” The award winners are honored at a luncheon at Jumping Brook Country Club in Neptune. “We had 260 people at the event this year. It’s a testament to the finalists, and to the sponsors we have, as well.”

This year, the ATHENA Leadership Award was presented to Jacklyn “Jackie” Atkins. Atkins is the founder and President of New Jersey Give a Kid a Dream (NJGAKAD), which empowers at-risk

youth through boxing (Atkins herself was inducted into the New Jersey Boxing Hall of Fame (2014), the New Jersey Martial Arts Hall of Fame (2018), and the National Boxing Hall of Fame (2023)). Atkins also established Girls in Gloves, which is a program that teaches young women “self-defense, self-awareness, and self-love.” Atkins has also served as the President of the NJ Association of USA Boxing since 2015, is the Chair of the USAB National Commission for Women, and is a certified USA Boxing Level 3 coach. NJGAKAD reaches children in communities in New Jersey, Chicago, Las Vegas, Ohio, and Ghana.

The 2024 Young Professional Award went to Brianna “Bri” Lindia, lead singer of the award-winning band “The Nines”. Lindia holds the title of Miss New Jersey for America Strong 2021. The singer teamed up with the Applaud Our Kids Foundation as an ambassador to ensure that all children have access to art and music lessons, despite financial barriers. An advocate for small, women-owned businesses, Lindia has used her New Jersey “legacy queen” status to uplift dozens of businesses.

Rölke explains that this event begins in January of each year, and they’re eager to expand. “Not all nominations come from Monmouth County – they can come from all over the state,” she explains. “We’re looking to grow it. We want people from all over to submit their nominations.”

The ATHENA Awards have an extensive history in New Jersey – 39 years worth – which celebrates their “goddesses,” named after the original Athena of Greek mythology.

“This year, we had about 20 goddesses that came to the event, and we want to reengage them,” Rölke says. “We want them to be mentors to future leaders, and we want them to be there at the event. We want this program to go beyond the luncheon, and we want these relationships to be created to empower women even more.” International ATHENA goddesses include many notable female figures, including Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Billie Jean King, Condoleezza Rice, and many more.

2025 will mark the 40th consecutive year of the Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce hosting this program, and Rölke couldn’t be more excited. “In 2024, we put up these bigger-than-life-sized banners that tell the history of ATHENA International. It was a whole different feeling.” Rölke credits chairwoman Ivy Jacot for the innovation of the event, running it for the past five years with extensive drive and passion. “We took it up a notch this year,” Rölke says. “We try to take it to the next level, and we really wanna shine for the 40th anniversary awards.”

To learn more about the ATHENA Awards, head to monmouthregionalchamber.com/athena

MonmouthCommunity.com JANUARY 2025

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