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Finding His Purpose

Charitable Pharmacist Ritesh Shah Talks New Book

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

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of 250 pounds are the best in the industry, allowing for the widest doors (up to 40”). The soft close feature prevents damage to the enclosure caused by slamming with low quality spring-loaded hinges.

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

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

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

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

Glass Durability

Clarvista® glass is patented specifically for shower enclosures. It is nonporous and will not stain. Clarvista® is permanent. Less expensive glazing quality glass is porous, and once stained, it is permanently discolored and will always look dirty.

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

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

by Vitro Glass is the industry’s clearest choice. Unlike conventional clear glass, which gets darker and greener as it be-

Expertise

comes thicker, the clarity of Starphire® glass actually intensifies with greater thickness. Because of its unparalleled clarity, Starphire® glass also offers exceptional color fidelity.

Glass Thickness

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

Hinges + Hardware

While most shower door hinges look similar, the true measure of a quality hinge is in its weight capacity and function. Soft closing hydraulic hinges with capacity

Even the best materials will not compensate for poor craftsmanship. From accurate measurement to precise manufacture to final installation, each step is crucial to ensure your shower remodel will live up to your expectations for years to come. It’s important to use a reputable, reliable company.

Remember, after-sale service can and will be needed throughout the life of the product. A professional will stand behind the product and make themselves available for maintenance in a timely manner.

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

Ask questions. Demand answers.

Make sure all necessary costs are included in the quote — glass, hardware, installation, and removal of your existing shower door.

Leave nothing to chance.

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

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

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

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FOR DETAILS CONTACT: Business Administrator, Matt Doherty 908-675-9051 ba@bradleybeachnj.gov

MonmouthCommunity.com SEPTEMBER 2025

5

CONTENTS

10

16

ON THE COVER

MONTHLY GUIDE

Charitable Pharmacist Ritesh Shah Talks New Book

Pet Guide

8

Upscale Meets Approachable at Charlie’s of Lincroft

25

Events Calendar

28

Red Bank’s Canopy Crossroad Aims to Educate the Public on Cannibis

36

Pet Celebs

41

5 Environmentally Friendly Businesses in Monmouth County

42

Freehold High Schooler Starts Soccer Initiative for Special Needs Kids

44-45

Around Town

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 BILL CL ARK M AT T D O H E R T Y REBECC A KING L I L I A N N PA R A S DESIGN DIRECTOR DEBBIE MCKENNA PHOTOGRAPHERS JOHN ARCARA ANDREI JACK A ME T S ANDRE A PHOX J O E LY P O W Y 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 features profiles on our community and features various advertisers throughout the region. Our magazine features the incredible products and services of our advertisers. We are not a news publication and do not report news.

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MonmouthCommunity.com

Upscale Meets Approachable at Charlie’s of Lincroft

BY BILL CLARK

W

8

made from scratch in the kitchen. Each night, diners can expect new appetizer, entree and dessert specials. Even the bartenders will create weekly cocktail specials to keep the options fresh for frequent patrons.

Though the menu is solid from top to bottom, Bernard has his personal favorites, like the Spicy Tuna Rainbow that is served on crispy rice. But perhaps the best part of the menu is that it offers a dish for everyone. The seafood lover can choose from octopus, calamari, or oysters, while those in the mood for lighter fare have salads like the Beet and Pistachio or the Burrata Panzanella.

And, of course, simple classics like burgers and pizzas are always popular as well.

hether it’s a special occasion, a major celebration or just a simple night out, Charlie’s of Lincroft has the table set. And with a main dining room and two private areas to cater to large groups, Charlie’s has the versatility to host a variety of functions all under one roof.

Although its menu features some truly outstanding gourmet dishes, nothing about Charlies feels stuffy. It boasts a sense of class without pretentiousness.

“It’s upscale, but it’s still approachable,” said Mark Bernard, Director of Operations for Charlie’s of Lincroft.

Charlie’s isn’t just a restaurant for birthdays, anniversaries and holidays. Bernard revealed one of the highest compliments he has received was from a patron that came in for a night out and left feeling as if it had been a special evening.

“That’s what I want. Every time you walk in the door, it should be special,” Bernard insists.

That’s also a testament to the ethos of Charlie’s staff.

From the person greeting you when you first walk through the doors all the way to the crew working the kitchen, everyone is there to make it a memorable evening.

The staff is ready to pivot when they must, as each day brings new surprises and challenges. It might require increasing a party’s size at the last minute or recognizing a life event that just popped up. For those times, Charlie’s staff is prepared, and the guests always come first.

“Everything is guest forward. Everything is inviting,” Bernard said. “That’s how I want my staff to treat everybody — as if they are guests here in our home.”

The pack of friends coming in for beers and burgers at the bar are treated to the same hospitality as the family celebrating a baby shower in the Great Room. Great service for all who enter is a must.

The vibe The interior at Charlie’s channels the perfect aesthetic for a restaurant so near to the agrarian and equestrian nature of central Monmouth County.

“The building has sort of a farmhouse look to it,” Bernard said of the dark wooden bar tops, exposed beams and stone walls. “We wanted to have that old tavern feel.”

Charlie’s may feel timeless from January to October, but the holiday season is when the decorations are taken to the next level. The tradition started at Charlie’s of Bay Head and continued when the Hesse family opened the Lincroft location. In 2024, Charlie’s of Lincroft had 48 Christmas trees throughout the building, many of which hung upside down from the ceiling as the wreaths, garland, ornaments and other decorations left such little room on the floor.

“People love it, and the guests love it. If guests walked out last year believing there was no way to top those decorations, more are coming for this year. There’s not an inch of the restaurant that’s left untouched,” Bernard promises.

Until then, Charlie’s of Lincroft will remain a spot to visit for any reason (or any season).

Digging in The menu changes seasonally and boasts upscale favorites including a variety of steaks and a rack of lamb. Pastas are

Charlie's of Lincroft is located at 700 Newman Springs Rd in Lincroft.

For more info, go to CharliesOfLincroft.com

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

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Finding His Purpose Charitable Pharmacist Ritesh Shah Talks New Book

BY EMMA SYLVIA

R

itesh Shah is a local Freehold pharmacist and the pioneer behind New Jersey’s first – and only – charitable pharmacy. Elaborating on his work with the Ritesh Shah Charitable Pharmacy, Shah is publishing his first book, “Pills to Purpose: A True Story of a Pharmacist.” He sat down with us to discuss its contents, the writing process and what he hopes people garner from reading it.

A Charitable Effort Shah has been a community pharmacist for more than two decades, owning more than six drug stores in that time. Alongside his wife, Asha, he became the CEO of Legacy Pharmacy Group, which operates in more than 15 states and works in tandem with many community pharmacies. He’s received multiple accolades, including being on the cover of America’s Pharmacists Magazine. Notably, Shah was the first to work with the state of New Jersey in order to accomplish Covid specimen collection.

Shah is primarily inspired by a loss that he faced during the pandemic. In October of 2021, he visited his sister, Rena,

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

in India to celebrate Diwali. Tragically, Shah later lost his sister to Covid-19.

“That drastically changed my life,” Shah recollects. “How do you express that? How do you get that piece back that no one understands? We thought the best way to honor Rena was to provide medications to those who have no means of receiving them.”

And thus, New Jersey’s first and only charitable pharmacy was born.

Asha Shah put her white coat back on in order to run the Ritesh Shah Charitable Pharmacy – all in honor of Rena. Just over three years later, the married pharmacist duo has dispensed almost $2 million worth of medication.

“My daughter calls me POTUS: Pharmacist of the United States,” Shah jokes, and he presents to me a backpack donning the moniker. Proud of the humorous title, Shah is ensuring that his sister’s light never fades, sparking a promise in New Jersey to ensure that everyone, especially the disenfranchised, have access to life-saving medication.

A Book’s Prologue Ritesh Shah began writing his book in 2017 and especially began focusing on it during the pandemic. One day, his daughter encouraged him, saying: “Dad, you need to finish this and publish it.”

Unsure, Shah replied, “Really? I’m a pharmacist,” to which she remained steadfast: “You’re going to be an author.” That claim proved true, as “Pills to Purpose: A True Story of a Pharmacist” is set to be published on September 13.

Shah’s book tells stories of his career, from filling prescriptions when he owned a drug store, to delivering medications personally, to being a leader in supplying the Covid-19 vaccination.

“It’s a pharmacist’s story. It’s a story of resilience. It’s a story of service,” he says.

Shah describes the book’s contents as featuring some of the cruxes of his character: the calling of a pharmacist, the events of the pandemic, what grief and

resilience does to someone – and how he turned that into power and purpose.

A Close Testimony President of the pharmacy, Joseph Howe, calls his role an honor. Originally meeting Shah when he was the superintendent of Freehold Schools, he attributes the school’s success (and being open in general) to Shah.

“We were in a situation where we couldn’t reopen without Covid testing, and there was no one offering. On a whim, the borough manager said, ‘I know this pharmacist that lives in Freehold Township that might be able to help,” Howe recollects. “The rest, as they say, is history. Ritesh is singlehandedly the reason we could open school up at the time.” Keeping his lab open overnight in order to accomplish the impossible, Shah was responsible for thousands of kids returning to school.

Notably, Howe recalls a somber mo-

ment in the school district, wherein a few staff members were crying because a student who had a genetic disorder couldn’t get access to the medication she needed to live. “I said, ‘I might know a guy who could help us out.’ And it wasn’t even a question. Ritesh said, ‘No problem.’ It was just miraculous.”

“This organization became bigger than anyone imagined,” Howe says. “We provide thousands of medications across the state. I don’t think there’s a county we don’t serve. It’s become a movement.

They want it in their backyard.”

Howe has nothing but praise for Shah and the path he’s taken to get where he is now. “He undersells the journey it took to get here,” Howe says. The day the pharmacy opened, Howe, Shah and the rest of the staff stood outside the building and understood that the reason the pharmacy was the first of its kind was due to the simple fact that it took so much work to get to where they were.

MonmouthCommunity.com SEPTEMBER 2025

11

Shah discusses the concept of Seva, a Hindu practice that involves selfless service to others. “I got to learn a lot about the principle of Seva and what that means. It’s that level of care and commitment you don’t see everywhere.”

The pharmacy has made a tremendous impact on the lives of Monmouth County residents and beyond, being more than just a pharmacy but a health center as well.

“That’s what this book does: It tells that story,” Howe says. While Shah says the book will primarily resonate with pharmacists and other healthcare professionals, Howe attests that there’s the broader market of those that have faced tragedy and channeled their grief into purpose.

Giving Back For every purchase of Pills to Purpose, the money goes right back to the pharmacy. As Shah elaborates, “If you buy this book, you help someone get medication. You’re giving the gift of life.”

Shah is nothing but thankful the people that have remained by his side, like his family and Howe. “I’m honored to have these people in my life.”

Shah recalls that when he went to the pharmacy earlier in the summer for his regular volunteering, he heard someone who was one of his customers in Holmdel. “‘Ritesh,’ he said when I walked in. He said, ‘[I knew] one day I’d meet you again.’ And he was just so thankful.” Sometimes at the pharmacy, they have customers who do not speak

English, or others that aren’t sure how the process works – and Shah and his staff are always there to ensure everyone understands how to take their medication correctly.

“There’s no ‘i’ in ‘team.’ This book is a collection of my experiences for the last 20 plus years in the pharmacy, with

Asha and so many staff members. I want to say thank you to pharmacists for doing what they do,” Shah says.

“Pills to Purpose” is available for pre-order now at www.pillstopurpose. com, Amazon, and Barnes and Noble with the release set for September 13 at the pharmacy’s gala, which will include keynote speakers and a book signing taking place at the Moghul Ball Room in Edison, NJ. Shah is excited for readers to discover the work of a pharmacist, and how to turn a tragedy into something greater for your community.

“This is how I’m giving back.”

To find out more, visit rscprx.org and pillstopurpose.com

Visit the Ritesh Shah Charitable Pharmacy at 224 Shrewsbury Ave, Red Bank

12

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Teacher Feature Name: Jacqueline Colley Title: 4th Grade teacher Place of Employment: Laura Donovan Elementary School Town of Residency: Freehold Q: What do you love about teaching, and what keeps you coming back each day?

A: What I love most about teaching is the ability to make a meaningful impact on students' lives. Seeing their growth, both academically and personally, is incredibly rewarding. What keeps me coming back each day is the relationships I build—with students, colleagues, and the school community.

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

A: One of the most challenging things about working with kids is meeting their diverse needs while keeping them engaged. Every child has a unique learning style, background, and set of challenges, and balancing those differences in a classroom can be tough. That said, these challenges also make teaching so rewarding.

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

A: There were subjects I loved and teachers who inspired me, making learning exciting and meaningful. Those positive experiences helped shape my passion for education. At the same time, like many students, I faced challenges—whether it was tough subjects, social dynamics, or just the pressure to do well. But overall, I enjoyed school because of the friendships, the sense of curiosity it fostered, and the teachers who made a difference in my life.

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

A: If I could add a new subject, it would be a “Practical Knowledge and Life Skills” style class. The class would cover real world skills needed like problem solving, emotional intelligence, budgets, taxes etc. School prepares kids well for academic, but not always the practical challenges of adulthood that could help kids become more independent and responsible.

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

A: The most important thing my students have taught me is the power of adaptability and patience. Every student learns differently, faces unique challenges, and brings their own perspective to the classroom. They’ve shown me that being a great teacher isn’t just about delivering content, it’s about listening, adjusting, and finding creative ways to connect with each individual.

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FIRST RESPONDERS

Q&A

Name: David Phillips Title: Firefighter Place of Employment: Long Branch Fire Department Town of Residency: Long Branch Q: What initially made you want to be a first responder?

A: My late father. I was introduced to the emergency services at a very early age. My dad was a Deal police officer for 30 years, as well as a volunteer firefighter and first aid member. I remember him getting dressed for work and leaving when there was a call for service over the radio. As I got older and understood what he did, I was completely hooked. Being able to make the difference, if only for one person if only for one minute – that’s where I wanted to be and what I wanted to do.

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

A: Most of us, including myself, are a pretty humble breed. It’s not about the rewards, per se. We do a lot of good, and at times, do not get to see the best things in life. You take the good times or rewards and keep them close. Being able to help our fellow people in their time of need is the most rewarding part of the job.

Q: What is the hardest aspect of the job?

A: Time away from home. Missing holidays and events. Having a solid support system is key to surviving this career.

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

A: We work in a dangerous and challenging environment. You cannot be fearless. Being scared is ok, it keeps you on your toes.

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

A: The one that changed the course of my career was in February of 2024. It was just before midnight, and there was someone banging on the fire house doors screaming for help. After running to find out what was wrong, I was handed a 6-day old infant who was not breathing. I was able to perform lifesaving back blows to relieve the obstruction. Shortly thereafter, I felt her breathing again. This was something I had never experienced in my 20 plus years in emergency services.

MonmouthCommunity.com SEPTEMBER 2025

15

P E T GU ID E

New Jersey Animal Shelters Are on the Precipice of Reaching “No-Kill” Status

BY REBECCA KING

Y

ou may not know it, but New Jersey is in a fierce competition right now. And this time, it’s not to decide whether a certain breakfast meat is called pork roll or Taylor Ham. Animal lovers around the state are vying for New Jersey to reach no-kill status this year, meaning no shelter will have to kill a cat or dog because of a lack of space, time or resources.

“New Jersey has been making really great progress,” said Aurora Velazquez, a New Jersey native and the East Region Director of Best Friends Animal Society. “That’s thanks to really progressive shelters and rescues across the state. As a New Jerseyan, I know we have a competitive nature. We want to be at the front of the pack. And we’re really close.”

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

Progress for Our Pets Best Friends Animal Society, which was founded in Utah in 1984, has grown to become a leading national animal welfare organization dedicated to ending the killing of dogs and cats in American shelters. New data from Best Friends shows that 89.5% of cats and dogs in New Jersey shelters were saved in 2024. Only 1,700 more pets need to be saved for the state to achieve no-kill.

The organization’s efforts in New Jersey are part of a larger pledge. In 2016, Best Friends CEO Julie Castle announced the organization’s mission to end the killing of dogs and cats in shelters by 2025. To achieve this, Best Friends set out to work with shelter and rescue groups across the country. At the time,

P E T GU ID E around 2 million dogs and cats had been killed in U.S. shelters because of a lack of resources. The organization has managed to lower that number to about 425,000 dogs and cats per year.

To be considered “no kill,” a shelter must reach a save rate of 90% of its cats and dogs. Velazquez makes the distinction between “euthanasia” and “no-kill,” explaining that shelters still may euthanize animals if they have untreatable medical problems or other issues that make them unsuitable for adoption.

Reaching “no-kill” means that shelters won’t need to kill perfectly adoptable cats and dogs due to a lack of space or resources.

Of New Jersey’s 70 animal shelters, 53 maintained or reached no-kill status in 2024, and 13 others had fewer than 1,100 animals to save to achieve no-kill status, according to Best Friends data. Velazquez explained that this progress is due to several factors. Many shelters have been engaging in effective marketing and have created programs that increase awareness, socialize their animals, and get people involved.

Velazquez notes the Associated Humane Societies of Newark’s “Adventure Tails: Dog Day Out” program, which allows community members to pick up shelter dogs to take with them on hikes or walks.

“It’s an incredibly impactful program for the dogs in the shelter,” she said. “It gets the dogs out and socializing, and for the community, it’s a low-stakes, low-commitment way to get involved.”

Taking on the Lion’s Share Many of New Jersey’s shelters are also engaging in trap-neuter-vaccinate-return (TNVR) programs for outdoor cats. This is a particularly important aspect of the no-kill movement, as, according to Best Friends, nearly 95%

time community cats must stay in a shelter. Currently, shelters are required to hold stray cats picked up for seven days. The bill aims to reduce that period to two days so cats accustomed to living outside can quickly get back to the environment they’re most comfortable in. The twoday hold time also reduces the amount of money shelters need to care for them, allowing them to allocate that money to animals that have to stay in the shelter, said Velazquez.

of pets dying unnecessarily in New Jersey are cats.

Cats tend to be more at risk, Velazquez explained, because many families don’t seek out their missing cats in shelters.

“There’s a cultural perception that cats will probably just come back on their own,” she said.

Cats are also more likely to experience immune-compromising stress in shelters, leading to infections and other illnesses.

“Even the best shelters can be a pretty stressful place to be for a cat,” added Velazquez.

Best Friends is currently working to pass the Compassion for Community Cats Act (A3635, S261), which would remove barriers and expenses that hinder shelters from operating TNVR programs.

“There are laws on the books that were created 50 years ago and don’t make a lot of sense today,” said Velazquez.

The bill creates a fund to help shelters fund TNVR programs and purchase vaccines and medications, all of which can have prohibitively high costs.

The bill also alters the amount of

How You Can Help Closing the 6% gap that separates New Jersey from reaching no-kill will be a state-wide effort.

“A misconception is that shelters that are not yet no-kill are somehow inherently wrong,” said Velazquez. “A vast majority of them want to be no-kill, and more are reaching that goal every year. These shelters need their communities to get involved so their animals can reduce their stress and show better when potential adopters come to visit. The more resources these shelters have, the more they can support their animals and the faster they can achieve no-kill.”

And once shelters become no-kill, said Velazquez, data shows they tend to stay no-kill. She encourages New Jerseyans to contact their local legislators and advocate for the Compassion for Community Cats Act, along with, of course, adopting pets when they can and volunteering and donating to their local shelter.

“There are all these little ways we can contribute,” said Velazquez. “People think there’s a really long way to go for New Jersey to become no-kill, but really, we’re right there.”

Go to bsaf.org/nj25 to learn more about the Compassion for Community Cats Act.

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P E T GU ID E

Unusual Pets Which One is Right for You?

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onmouth County is home to thousands of pet lovers. Walking down the streets of Asbury Park, you’ll be remiss if you don’t run into a puppy to pet, and driving down the long roads of Colts Neck, you might see horses grazing on their owners’ property. However, in New Jersey, you don’t just have to stick to the basics, you can legally care for an eclectic set of animals that you might not have ever considered. Here are a few of our faves: Ostrich Owning an ostrich in the State of New Jersey is a bit of a loophole – because they’re considered livestock, they’re legal to own. Farmers and those with large plots of outdoor space might be best able to take advantage of this, as ostriches require plenty of room to roam around. Birdwatching is becoming an increasingly popular hobby among millennials in particular. With an ostrich in the yard, you can brag to all your friends that you’ve got the largest bird around.

Kinkajou The kinkajou is a tropical rainforest mammal native to Mexico, Central America and South America. Owning one just requires a permit, but it’s encouraged to research how to take care of this unique animal. These highly energetic animals require tons of space, and are smarter than the average human toddler.

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Llama Like ostriches, Llamas are legal to own because they’re considered livestock animals. They’re very sociable animals, so getting them a buddy (or several) is encouraged. However, they’re lauded as great pets and companions. If you have the space and commitment, a pet llama might be in the cards for you.

Boa Constrictor These big, scaly creatures might be considered by some to be too creepy and potentially dangerous to keep as a pet; but, for many, these large reptiles are the perfect companions. Boas are relatively docile but also active, and of course you need to remember that a snake bigger than six feet long might be a difficult manage to those unfamiliar with them.

Typically, they’re gentle, and males tend to run on the smaller side. If you’re a snake whisperer yourself, this gentle giant might be the perfect pet for you.

Miniature Pigs

Pigs were popularized as pets after the debut of Charlotte’s Web, following everyone’s favorite pig, Wilbur. Pigs are curious creatures and love to dig with their noses. Like the commonplace puppy, they require toys and enrichment in order to thrive. Able to fit in your grasp (unlike a pig you might see at a farm), these pigs are still plenty to care for. Intelligent and emotional, make sure that you have the means to take care of mini pig before you consider giving one a new home.

P E T GU ID E

Let ’em Run Wild!

5 Fab Dog Parks for Tail-Wagging Fun

BY RYAN LOUGHLIN

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alking your dog is an important and enjoyable part of any daily routine for pet owners, but sometimes to really get out all that pent up energy, a well-behaved dog needs to run free, untethered by the leash. Dog parks offer this freedom for well-behaved and well-socialized dogs, and Monmouth County has some of the best around.

1) Wolf Hill Off Leash Dog Park, Oceanport — Many dog parks consist of relatively small, confined spaces that can quickly get overcrowded. But Wolf Hill Dog Park in Oceanport offers canines a massive, sprawling four-acre space to run off-leash with their four-legged friends. The larger, circular space is for dogs 35 pounds and up, but there is also a smaller fenced area should you need a place for your petite breeds to run free. Parking is plentiful and both water and pet waste stations are available. Wolf Hill Off Leash Dog Park is located at 2 Crescent Pl. in Oceanport.

2) 8th Ave. Dog Beach, Asbury Park — While it’s not technically a dog park in the traditional sense (there are no fences keeping the dogs in a specified area), the dog beach in Asbury Park is one of the most unique and enjoyable scenes a dog owner can stumble into. Watching the canines frolic in the sand with the waves crashing just beyond them serves as a clear reminder of just how fabulous life at the Jersey Shore can be. During the summer months doggos are only allowed on the beach before 8:30 a.m. or after 6 p.m., but from Sept. 15-May 15 they are welcome any time of day. Those dates also coincide with when dogs are allowed on the Asbury boardwalk, meaning you and your pup can run around in the sand, dry off and then hit the boards for a stroll and a snack. 8th Ave Dog Beach is located at 8th avenue and the beach in Asbury Park.

3) Liberty Park II, Tinton Falls ­— This fully enclosed off-leash dog park in Tinton Falls comes stocked with a few features you don’t always see in the dog park universe.

Astroturf makes for a unique play surface and various doggy obstacles and play structures give your pooch plenty of new ways to race and chase their way through the day.

Benches are there for you to have a front row seat to all the action. Liberty Park II is located at 1420 W. Park Ave in Tinton Falls.

4) Bark Park, Howell — Tucked off the beaten path in a wooded setting within Oak Glen Park, the Bark Park in Howell is seldom overcrowded, which makes it a fun spot for those looking to not completely overwhelm their furry companions. Packed with shade and benches and split into both small and large dog zones, this is a relaxing and comfortable space to spend a little time throwing the stick. Just make sure to check your pup for ticks after playing, as they are plentiful in wooded areas like these.

The Bark Park is located at 379 Old Tavern Road in Howell.

5) Thompson Park, Lincroft — Thompson Park in Lincroft is yet another fab spot to hang with your hounds. This 1.5 acre off-leash area is big enough that your canines can run out all of that pent up doggie energy, but not so large that you can’t keep a close eye on them the entire time without tiring yourself out. The site features water for your tired pups and is split into zones — one for large breeds and one for their smaller siblings. Thompson Park is located at 806 Newman Springs Road in Lincroft.

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P E T GU ID E

Pet Needs Directory A list of local shops and facilities for pet owners PET SUPPLY STORES: Pet’s General Store 732-345-1200 507 Prospect Ave, Little Silver The Hungry Puppy 732-938-4470 1288 NJ-33, Farmingdale All About Pets 732-223-4530 2204 NJ-35, Sea Girt Paws Barkery & Boutique 732-449-5000 658 Cookman Ave, Asbury Park Shampoochies Grooming and Pet Supplies 848-303-8665 179 Locust Ave, West Long Branch

24-HOUR EMERGENCY VET CLINICS: Garden State Veterinary Emergency Services 732-481-1040 246 Industrial Way W, Eatontown Red Bank Veterinary Hospital 732-747-3636 100 Schulz Dr, Red Bank PET GROOMERS: Shampoochies Grooming and Pet Supplies 848-303-8665 179 Locust Ave, West Long Branch Green Leaf Pet Resort (Ocean) 732-272-0800 1602 NJ-35, Oakhurst

Doggie Sweets 609-426-1900 15 Morris Ave Unit 119, Long Branch

The Dog Spaw 732-747-9744 8 Fairview Ave, Little Silver

Jade Pets 973-826-9113 290 Norwood Ave, Deal

The Dawg Joint 732-455-3145 513 Bangs Ave, Asbury Park

Cosmopawlitan 732-275-1905 1837 NJ-35, Middletown Township

Golden Paws Boutique and Grooming Salon 732-440-4385 269A E Main St, Oceanport The Prince & The Pawper 732-695-0095 889 W Park Ave, Ocean Township

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

BOARDING/DAYCARE FACILITIES: Green Leaf Pet Resort (Ocean) 732-272-0800 1602 NJ-35, Oakhurst Happy Tails Kennel 732-938-4740 42 Yellowbrook Road, Howell Camp Bow Wow 732-728-9663 284 Old Deal Rd, Eatontown K-9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel 732-655-6372 889 NJ-35, Middletown All Seasons Pet Resort 732-431-4425 276 Jackson Mills Rd, Freehold Township Dogtopia of Shrewsbury 732-440-9080 980 Shrewsbury Ave, Shrewsbury Dogs on the Farm & Cats Too 732-872-7543 790 Kings Hwy E, Atlantic Highlands Purr ’n Pooch 732-842-4949 86 Gilbert St W, Tinton Falls

OPENING SOON IN JERSEY CITY

25 Christopher Columbus Drive | Jersey City

A Little Slice of Heaven Family Tavola Offers Fresh Pizza, Italian Classics and the World’s Best Meatballs — Right Here in Little Silver

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lthough their heritage is clearly Italian, there is something so wonderfully American — and particularly Jerseyan — about a great local pizzeria. Growing up in this state, the concept of enjoying a killer slice from a nofrills, hole-in-the-wall pizza joint is practically melded into the fabric of the culture. And of course, all the locals have their favorite place that they are fiercely loyal to.

One spot that regularly inspires that kind of loyalty is Family Tavola Pizza and Restaurant in Little Silver.

Family Tavola sits just opposite the train station, making it a great place to grab a slice or a fresh pie on your way home from work (they even have a section on their website where you can order based on when your train is scheduled to arrive and they will have everything ready when you get there).

They also have a location in Point Pleasant should you find yourself in that neck of the woods.

After at least a year of having this spot recommended to me by various friends and coworkers, I finally stopped in at the Little Silver location on a recent Sunday evening for dinner with my wife and quickly realized I had been missing out on something great.

The Space Family Tavola offers exactly what you want from your local pizzeria — it’s casual, but unlike some of the more wellworn slice shops you may encounter at the shore, it distinguishes itself with a bright, inviting atmosphere, presented in clean lines of whites and grays. Subway-tiled walls peppered with portraits of Al Capone and other gangsters add a

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touch of Italian-American whimsy to the dining room, which is more spacious than what you might expect from a place like this. A large, flat-screen TV features a loop of a charming street in an Italian village, just for fun. Up front, those in a hurry can grab slices at the counter and be in an out in minutes, but we opted for the full dining experience.

Chowing Down If you are craving Italian, you’ll find all the classics here and then some. Pizzas, pastas, a variety of parms, alfredos and the like are all scattered throughout the impressive menu at Family Tavola. But they also manage to work in quite a bit of creativity, offering fun apps like the Italian Egg Rolls, which are available in a rotating lineup of varieties. We opted for the utterly delicious cheesesteak version, which featured a wonton wrapper fully loaded with thin-sliced steak, cheese, onions and a side of ketchup to dip in.

For our second app, we sampled the Grandma Goldbergiani Meatballs, which were possibly the single best version of the dish either of us have ever had. All beef meatballs covered in tomato sauce and topped with both mozzarella and ricotta cheeses, these were an absolute highlight of the meal.

They also offer another meatball variety — the Nana De’Luca which serves as a direct rival to the Grandma Goldbergiani in what their menu describes as “Meatball Wars.” The Nana De’Luca is made with a beef/pork/veal blend, but sadly, we didn’t have the chance to sample that. Next time we will for sure, but it’s going to take a near miracle to unseat Grandma Goldbergiani as the winner in this war.

From there, we dove headfirst into a variety of slices, sampling everything from their standard plain slice with its perfect ratio of cheese to sauce, to the Nonna — an excellent square slice topped with cheese, sauce and pesto that sits somewhere between a grandma and a Sicilian-style slice. Perhaps the most unique of the pile was the Frangelica, a gourmet pie with a thin, almost bar pie-style crust topped with grilled chicken, bacon, onions and a creamy tomato sauce that was unlike any we have tried prior. It’s anything but traditional, but it’s a more than worthwhile effort.

After hemming and hawing a bit over which pasta to choose, we ulti-

mately went with the tortellini with vodka sauce, which was flavorful and cooked to a perfect al dente. One nice thing at Family Tavola is they allow you to mix and match pastas and sauces.

Choose from spaghetti, linguini, penne, capellini, fettucine, rigatoni, cavatelli, tortellini or gluten free pasta and you can pair it with sauce options, including oil and garlic, vodka sauce, alfredo, cacio e pepe or either red or white clam sauce. And if you want to add a protein to your pasta dish, chicken, meatballs, sausage, shrimp or scallops are all available to add on as well.

After our feast we were too stuffed to pile on any more, but even with all we ate, we still barely scratched the surface

of the menu at Family Tavola. Intriguing main courses like Seafood Alfredo in a bread bowl; Salmon Wellington or the slightly intimidating “Flaming Cheese Wheel of Death” (Shrimp flambeed in a wheel of parmesan prepared tableside and served over pasta) piqued our interest enough to plan a return trip, as did the long list of sandwiches, many of which I will be sampling on my future lunch hours.

Family Tavola Pizza and Restaurant 24 Ayers Lane, Little Silver Rating: HHHH For more info, go to EBFamilyTavola.com.

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Caring with Karaoke is an annual charity fundraising event hosted by the Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Young Professionals Group (YPG).

Each year the YPG proudly partners with a local 501(c)(3) non-profit organization to benefit from a majority of the event’s net proceeds. This year’s beneficiary is the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore (GSJS). Girl Scouts are changemakers — courageous, confident young leaders who work to make the world a better place.

They discover their strengths, embrace new challenges, and are empowered to be themselves, regardless of background or ability. With the support of dedicated volunteers and mentors in our community and a network of millions of alumnae worldwide, Girl Scouts are building a brighter future for everyone.

Event Highlights:

Join us on

Karaoke Singing Competition with a panel of judges!

Open Karaoke • Networking Opportunities Delicious Food • Gift Auction • 50/50 Raffle

Thursday, September 25 7:00 – 10:00 pm

The Wonder Bar • Asbury Park, NJ Scan Code to Become a Sponsor, Purchase Tickets, or to Place an Ad in Our Event Program

TO SUPPORT THIS EVENT

Scan Code to Donate Gifts to Our Gift Auction from our Amazon Wish List

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CALL US TO SCHEDULE YOUR PRIVATE TOUR GOVERNOR’S CROSSING 848.400.4389 Englishtown, NJ

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REFLECTIONS AT COLTS NECK 609.552.8253 Colts Neck, NJ

Visit our website at bit.ly/Family_CM or scan the QR for more information.

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

SEPTEMBER EVENTS CALENDAR WEDNESDAYS (SEPT. 3, 10, 17, 24) Holmdel Farmers Market Shop farm-fresh at Holmdel’s weekly farmers market Bell Works, 101 Crawfords Corner Road, Holmdel 11am - 4pm For more information, visit asburyfresh.com/markets/2025-bellworks-fresh-farmers-makers-market EVERY FRIDAY (SEPT. 5, 12, 19, 26) Funky Fridays Gazebo Concert Series Visit Downtown Freehold for an evening of local music Gazebo, 10 E Main St, Freehold 7pm - 9pm For more information, visit downtownfreehold.com EVERY SATURDAY (SEPT. 6, 13, 20, 27) Asbury Park Farmers Market Head down to Sunset Ave. for Asbury’s weekly farmers market Sunset Ave @ Main Street, Asbury Park 8am - 1pm For more information, visit asburyfresh.com SEPTEMBER 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 18, 19, 20 Rooftop Outdoor Movies Spend a night on the Asbury Hotel rooftop for a drive-in style movie The Baronet, 210 Fifth Ave, Asbury Park 8pm - 10pm For more information, visit theasburyhotel.com MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 BBQ & Craft Beer Festival Head down to Monmouth Park for a mouth-watering weekend with over 40 craft beers Monmouth Park 175 Oceanport Ave, Oceanport 11am - 5pm For more information, visit monmouthpark.com Bands on the Sand Enjoy a night of music on the beach West End Beach 1 West End Ave, Long Branch 7pm - 8:30pm For more information, visit longbranch.org FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 Atlantic Highlands Farmers Market Shop fresh and local at the Atlantic

Highlands Farmers Market Veterans Ave, 111 First Ave, Atlantic Highlands 10am - 3pm For more information, visit ahchamber.org SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 Bugs, Birds and Beyond A free outdoor festival for children of all ages, including nature-inspired activities, educational displays, and Remarkable Raptor shows 4000 Kozloski Road, Freehold 12pm - 4pm For more information, call 732-303-7614 Fall Flea Market Visit Ocean Grove for a market of vintage, antique, handmade and new items.

21 Pilgrim Pathway, Ocean Grove 10am - 4pm For more information, visit oceangrovenj.com Food Trucktemberfest Monmouth Park hosts a day of some of the best food trucks and music.

11am - 5pm Monmouth Park, 175 Oceanport Ave For more information, visit monmouthpark.com SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 CNBA Polo Classic Delicious Orchards and Huddy’s Inn face off in a day of fast-paced polo, filled with a halftime show and great prizes.

Bucks Mills Park (Upper Polo Field), 137 Bucks Mill Road, Colts Neck For more information, visit coltsneckbusiness.org WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 Fall Wreath Workshop Join Pantano in Holmdel for a Fall Wreath Workshop by Amber & Earth Pantano Home and Garden 161 Rt 34, Holmdel 6:30pm - 8pm For more information, visit pantanooutdoorsupply.com/events-2/ SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 The Minisink Trail Historical Marker A celebration for the 250th anniversary of our country, a walk on the Minisink Trail with refreshments following the ceremony

24 Mill Road, Matawan 11am For more information, visit nj.gov/state/ historical/historical-markers.shtml SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 2nd Annual Arts & Artists of Shrewsbury A showcase of the talented artists of different mediums that reside and create in Shrewsbury 419 Sycamore Ave, Shrewsbury 11am - 3pm (Rain date: Sunday, September 28) For more information, visit ShrewsburyBoro.com SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 Signature Golf Outing Join the Eastern Monmouth Area Chamber of Commerce for a day of golf, prizes and dinner Jumping Brook Country Club 210 Jumping Brook Rd., Neptune 3pm For more information, visit emacc.org WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 Pints and Plants Join Pantano for a night of pints, plants, bingo and trivia.

Source Farmhouse Brewery 300 NJ-34, Colts Neck 6:30pm For more information, visit pantanooutdoorsupply.com/events-2/ SATURDAY-SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27-28 Fall Fest Harvest Season Join Pantano Nursery in celebrating the fall season with face painting, pony rides and a petting zoo Pantano, 161 Rt 34, Holmdel For more information, visit pantanooutdoorsupply.com/events-2/ SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4TH 5th Annual Freehold Knights of Columbus Car Show Head down to Freehold for an Autos and Car show, with food, music, games, raffles and more Co-Cathedral of St. Robert Bellarmine, 61 Georgia Road, Freehold 11am - 4pm For more information, visit RSPepe.Events

MonmouthCommunity.com SEPTEMBER 2025

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

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BIZBEAT

BY RYAN LOUGHLIN

A quick roundup of what’s new and happening at local businesses in Monmouth County. schoolers achieve their college dreams. This company will meet the needs of the student and parents by meeting oneon-one and working on choosing colleges to apply to, writing and refining the college essays, applying to the college, and helping to find and apply for scholarships that fit the student.

To start, they provide a free 30-minute consultation and put together a plan that fits your student’s needs. Contact them today at uniboundcc@gmail.com or (732) 684-0044

Mental health is the focus at The Institute for Better Living

Modern Web Design in Long Branch creates custom websites for all Long Branch-based web design company Modern Web Design creates websites that do more than just look good — they work hard for your business. Whether you need a site that brings in more customers, an online system to manage your services, or a better way to show what you do, they build it custom for your needs. Owner Mark Btesh focuses on clear design, fast loading, and making sure your site helps your business grow.

From small businesses to growing brands, Modern Web Design can turn your ideas into powerful online tools that save time, attract clients, and make your business stand out.

Call 917-648-0846 or email mbsoftdesign@gmail.com

The Institute for Better Living in Colts Neck provides compassionate, patient-centered psychiatric care with advanced treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) a non-invasive, drug-free FDA approved option for depression, OCD, anxious depression and late-life depression.

They specialize in comprehensive reproductive psychiatry, supporting mental health during pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause.

Beyond ADHD, they treat mood, anxiety, adjustment, and impulse-control disorders; PTSD; obsessive-compulsive, personality, psychotic, and neurocognitive disorders; seasonal affective disorder; grief; and substance-related disorders. They also provide thorough psychiatric clearance evaluations.

The Institute for Better Living offers in-person and telehealth appointments and accepts major insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, ensuring accessible, high-quality care for all. www.institutebetterliving.com

New business UniBound College Consultants launches With the new school year starting, UniBound College Consultants, LLC, is your relief from the stress of college planning with your student. As a new business, they help high

MonmouthCommunity.com SEPTEMBER 2025

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Breaking the Stigma Red Bank’s Canopy Crossroad Aims to Educate the Public on a Much-Misunderstood Plant

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BY EMMA SYLVIA / PHOTOS BY JOHN ARCARA

ear of the unknown is nearly universal—which is why even positive new experiences can feel intimidating.

Caryn Cohen, a long-time Red Bank resident, knows this feeling well. She’s used that insight as a foundation for Canopy Crossroad, a locally owned dispensary and certified New Jersey Women-Owned business devoted to educating the public about cannabis and its wellness benefits.

Cohen moved to Red Bank in 1998 and has been a medical marijuana patient since New Jersey launched its program—using cannabis to help manage ulcerative colitis and rheumatoid arthritis. Her personal experience, combined with the scientific expertise of her husband, Andy Zeitlin, a chemist with decades of pharmaceutical experience creating life-saving drugs in oncology and neuroscience, inspired them to open Canopy Crossroad. Their goal: to bring thoughtful, evidence-based cannabis education and products to the local community.

A Science-Based, Human Approach “We wanted to bring a different perspective to cannabis,” says Cohen. “Our mission is to deliver the healing power of the plant—backed by science—to our community and help dismantle the stigma surrounding cannabis.”

The closest dispensary to downtown, Canopy Crossroad is the only Red Bank dispensary that is fully locally-owned and operated. Cohen and Zeitlin are joined by two other local couples as partners, all contributing their unique ideas and perspectives. Unlike corporate chains, Canopy Crossroad is a small, independent business deeply rooted in the local culture.

“We’re not interested in becoming the McDonald’s of cannabis,” Cohen adds. “We care about healing, education, and making this experience comfortable and welcoming.”

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Replacing Intimidation with Education What truly sets Canopy Crossroad apart is its commitment to education.

Cohen knows that for many, cannabis can feel overwhelming—whether due to outdated perceptions, stigma, or simply not knowing where to start.

“Education is our top priority,” she explains. “That’s why our team isn’t called budtenders—we call them Canna-Coaches. Think of them like sommeliers. They offer a consultative, individualized experience, helping each customer find the right strain, form, and dosage for their needs.”

Whether someone is seeking help with sleep, pain, or simply looking to explore recreational use, the Canna-Coaches are there to offer support, insight, and guidance in a calm, welcoming environment. The dispensary itself is designed more like a wellness boutique than a typical head shop—encouraging comfort and curiosity over confusion.

“I’ve personally felt overwhelmed in large, corporate dispensaries,” Cohen admits. “We designed our space and our experience to be the opposite—warm, friendly, and informative, with some of the best products in the state.”

Power of the Plant Cohen is a firm believer in cannabis and its healing properties—and she’s not alone. Her passion is backed by her husband’s scientific background, offering a rare blend of personal conviction and professional credibility. “It’s about natural healing,” she says. “Cannabis has been unfairly stigmatized for far too

long, and people are missing out on its benefits. We’re here to change that. I once heard someone say: when five guys share a six-pack, they start a fight. When five guys share a joint, they start a band.

That says it all.”

Part of removing that stigma is educating consumers about safe, regulated cannabis. Cohen points out the risks of unregulated Delta-8 products found in gas stations, convenience stores and even pharmacies. Although Delta 8 is sold in these retail stores, it is not approved by the FDA, is 25% the strength of Delta 9 (natural in the plant), can contain unknown contaminants, and is not tested or regulated. Canopy Crossroad actively works to inform customers about the differences and risks.

Community-Driven Education As part of its mission, Canopy Crossroad has partnered with the Red Bank Mayor’s Wellness Campaign, offering educational speaker events at the Red Bank Senior Center. Speakers have included a Rutgers University professor specializing in plant pathology, an Ayurvedic practitioner who shared insights on cannabis’ long-standing use in traditional medicine, and a talk about understanding medical cannabis and how health insurance might help.

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“We’re trying to educate the community as much as we can,” Cohen emphasizes.

The Red Bank Connection Canopy Crossroad proudly embraces its Red Bank identity. All residents receive an automatic 5% discount, with additional savings for medical patients, and other available discounts. But it goes beyond discounts—the dispensary was designed with the town’s artistic soul in mind.

“Red Bank is a town of arts and culture, so we infused that spirit into our store,” says Cohen. Inside, you’ll find a wall of natural moss and mushroom elements (also the company’s logo), and a stunning outdoor mural by local artist Michael White that reflects the brand’s ethos and aesthetic.

“We told Michael our vision for the mural, and he brought it to life,” she says.

“We’re locals, and we took care to make our store feel like it

truly belongs in Red Bank.”

Since opening in October 2024, Canopy Crossroad has quickly become an active part of the community—joining the Count Basie Theatre, participating in Pride in the Park, supporting local nonprofit Lunch Break, and getting involved in upcoming events like the Mac & Cheese Festival (Sept.

27, benefiting JBJ Soul Kitchen) and Red Bank Octoberfest (Oct. 11). October will also mark the dispensary’s one-year anniversary.

A Warm Welcome from the Community Since their doors opened in October of 2024, Canopy Crossroad has experienced a wonderful reaction from the community in and around Red Bank, which Cohen attributes greatly to their amazing staff.

“I love reading our reviews,” she shares. “They validate everything we’re working to build.”

For more information, visit Canopy Crossroad at 9 West Street, Red Bank, at the corner of West Front Street. www.canopycrossroad.com Call 732-438-5880, or find them on Instagram at @canopycrossroad and Facebook at Facebook.com/canopycrossroaddispensary

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Institute for Better Living 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!

Specializing in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

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

Deep TMS has been FDA-cleared in the USA and effectively treats: • Depression • OCD • Smoking Addiction • Anxious Depression • Late-Life Depression

Student Successes

N

icholas Craft of Freehold graduated with an MS in Engineering from the University of Arkansas.

Kayla Grimshaw of Freehold, majoring in Criminology and Criminal Justice, was named to York College of Pennsylvania’s Spring 2025 Dean’s List.

David Navarro of Freehold earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Do you want to send us a student success tip?

Please e-mail to info@communitymagazinenj.com

We are also suboxone certified and specialize in reproductive psychiatry.

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

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440 Route 34, Unit 1B | Colts Neck, NJ info@institutebetterliving.com (646) 883-0734

www.institutebetterliving.com

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Redefining Wealth How Geeta Brana is Helping Women Build Confidence, Clarity, and Financial Freedom

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eeta Brana exudes poise, grace, and quiet strength. It’s easy to imagine that her life is defined by steady success – a thriving business, two fantastic children, financial achievement, growing influence, and a local community of loyal, supportive friendships. Yet when you dive deeper into Geeta’s story, you see that her success was built on grit, resiliency, and a passion to revolutionize how women approach finances.

By any measure, Geeta Brana is a trailblazer. With over 28 years in global markets, she has built a career that blends technical expertise with personal purpose. But Geeta isn’t just navigating wealth management — she’s reshaping it for women. Her firm, Geeta Brana Wealth – Financial Services for Women, was founded to eliminate financial barriers and empower women to take charge of their economic futures.

At the core of her work is a belief that financial literacy isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity, especially for women often underserved by traditional models and impacted by transitions like divorce, caregiving, or widowhood.

“My goal is to reignite optimism and build a future where women feel fully equipped and empowered to pursue their financial goals,” says Brana.

Her story is one of global insight, local impact, and personal reinvention — a powerful reminder that wealth is about more than numbers. It’s about security, dignity, and self-determination.

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From Global Finance to Grassroots Empowerment Geeta’s professional journey began far from the U.S. — in a small town outside London, born to Indian immigrant parents. In the 1970s and 80s, few women — especially women of color — worked in high finance. But Geeta was an exception. She became one of the first British-Indian women in the UK to break into capital markets, earning a spot in a prestigious five-year financial training program. She began her career at Lloyds Capital Markets in the mid-1990s before moving into global investment banking.

At Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, she structured complex debt deals across Eastern Europe, Japan, and the U.S. In 2003, she joined Smith Barney’s Wealth Management division (now part of Citigroup), working under future Ellevest founder Sally Krawcheck.

“I always had a passion for economic systems and how they impact people’s lives,” she recalls. “But I also saw early on how few women were given a seat at the table — especially in wealth management.”

After nearly two decades in global banking roles across London, Washington DC, and New York, Geeta relocated to New Jersey, where she launched her own boutique practice — focused exclusively on serving women.

A Personal Turning Point In 2015, Geeta experienced a transformation that reshaped not only her personal life but the direction of her career. After enduring years in a toxic marriage, she made the courageous decision to leave, becoming a single mother and stepping into the unknown. It was a period of uncertainty and emotional upheaval — but also one of deep clarity.

“That moment changed everything,” she says. “It gave me a new understanding of the vulnerability many women feel when they don’t have full control over their financial lives. And it inspired me to help others reclaim their independence through education and action.”

This experience became the foundation of her firm’s mission: to help women navigate financial transitions with support, strategy, and strength.

The Power of Specialized Support Geeta’s commitment to women in transition led her to become a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® (CDFA®) — a credential that positions her uniquely to serve both clients and attorneys in the collaborative divorce space.

Unlike traditional advisors, a CDFA brings a deep understanding of how divorce settlements impact long-term financial health. Geeta’s role often includes analyzing proposed asset divisions, forecasting future cash flow, evaluating tax consequences, and ensuring that each client has a sustainable post-divorce plan in place. Geeta is also qualified to testify in court as a financial expert.

“Divorce is not just an emotional and legal process — it’s one of the most financially consequential decisions a woman can make,” Geeta explains. “I work with attorneys and mediators to ensure that women are not left vulnerable, but walk away with clarity and confidence.”

This work, while highly technical, is also deeply human. Many clients come to her feeling overwhelmed and uncertain.

Her job is to demystify the process, uncover blind spots, and help women make informed decisions that align with their values and future goals. As a result, her clients have gone on to escape bad marriages, run successful businesses, pay off debts, plan for retirement, buy their own homes, and more.

Holistic Services with a Human Touch In addition to divorce financial planning, Geeta Brana Wealth offers a comprehensive suite of services, including investment management, retirement planning, insurance consulting, and financial education. What sets her apart is the way she integrates emotional intelligence into every interaction.

“We don’t just talk about numbers — we talk about life,” she says. “We talk

about what matters most, what keeps you up at night, and what your future looks like if you’re empowered to make choices without fear.”

Each client receives a custom strategy tailored to her lifestyle, goals, and challenges — whether she’s navigating the financial fallout of a divorce, preparing for retirement, recovering from loss, or simply learning how to manage money for the first time.

Community at the Core Geeta’s work is rooted not just in personal service, but in community impact. In 2018, she founded W.H.E.E.L. (Women Helping to Educate & Enhance Life), a volunteer organization supporting women through life transitions.

WHEEL’s free workshops bring together expert voices across law, healthcare, grief, mindfulness, and finance to offer holistic support for women rebuilding their lives.

“WHEEL was born out of the realization that women in transition don’t just need financial advice — they need a full circle of support,” Geeta explains.

She also contributes consistently to community organizations such as MANAVI NJ, Stephy’s Place (a center for grief support), the Anne Vogel Family

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Care & Wellness Center, and the New Jersey State Bar Association. Geeta regularly speaks at Rutgers Law School, sharing insights on financial planning with aspiring legal professionals.

Recognized for Excellence In 2023, Geeta was honored as one of New Jersey’s Best 50 Women in Business, a recognition that celebrated her leadership, vision, and contribution to both her industry and community.

The award was especially meaningful because it acknowledged not just her financial acumen, but her impact as a mentor and advocate for women.

“It was a full-circle moment,” she says. “To be seen and acknowledged not just for what I’ve built, but for the mission behind it — to lift up other women and guide them through life’s toughest transitions.”

Her firm has also been spotlighted in national publications and media segments for its innovative, women-focused model.

Lessons in Liberation Geeta’s personal growth continues to inform her philosophy as an advisor and leader. One of the core principles she shares with her clients is the power of forgiveness — not as a passive act, but as a powerful form of liberation.

“Forgiveness doesn’t alter the past, but it expands the future,” she says. “It’s about choosing freedom over resentment, action over fear.”

Her favorite quote, which she often shares with clients, reflects her belief in nurturing the right environment for growth:

“

When a flower doesn’t bloom, you fix the environment in which it grows — not the flower.

”

— Alexander den Heijer

Changing the Way Women Experience Wealth Through every challenge she’s faced — whether breaking into international finance, rebuilding after divorce, or launching her own firm — Geeta Brana

has remained focused on one mission: helping women thrive.

While her heart and roots are in Holmdel, NJ, she has recently opened an additional location in Manhattan, NY, with expectations of serving a larger and expanding base.

She understands that wealth is more than assets. It’s the ability to choose your future. It’s the freedom to walk away from harmful situations. It’s the confidence to start over at any stage of life.

“My mission is to help women live their best lives — with clarity, control, and financial peace of mind.”

With every client she advises, every workshop she leads, and every woman she empowers, Geeta Brana is redefining what wealth means — and proving that when women are financially strong, families and communities grow stronger too.

For more information, visit www.GeetaBrana.com • Instagram: @Geeta_Brana_Wealth • Email: GBrana@fcmadvisor.com Phone: 732-546-9315 Address: 960 Holmdel Road, Building 1, Suite 201, Holmdel NJ 07733

Securities and investment advisory services offered through Osaic Wealth, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC. Osaic Wealth is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced here are independent of Osaic Wealth.

Images courtesy of: Carmela Caracappa Photography, carmelacaracappaphotography.com and 3 Chicks That Click, 3chicksthatclick.com

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A Quick Back-to-School Health Checklist for Parents

1) Check immunizations and school paperwork first Before the first day, make sure your child’s immunizations and health forms are up to date with New Jersey school requirements (kindergarten and grade-entry vaccines, TDAP for adolescents, meningococcal where required, etc.). Schools may require proof of immunizations or a valid exemption for enrollment — plan ahead to avoid delays. For local guidance and school-nurse forms, check your district’s health services page and New Jersey’s official immunization requirements.

2) Prioritize sleep Adolescents and school-age children need consistent, sufficient sleep for attention, behavior, mood, and learning.

Research and major pediatric organizations link later school start times for teens with longer sleep duration and better outcomes; for younger kids, consistent bedtimes and wind-down routines improve readiness and classroom functioning. If your child struggles with early wakeups, gradually shift bedtimes and morning routines 10–15 minutes each day in the two weeks before school. Additionally, aim for screens off 60 minutes before bed at night. The blue light from screens is disruptive to the natural circadian rhythm.

3) Teach handwashing hygiene Simple habits reduce both respiratory and gastrointestinal illness. Reinforce handwashing after bathroom use, before meals, and after recess; supply a small hand sanitizer for backpacks when soap and water aren’t available.

4) Nutrition and physical activity Kids who eat a balanced breakfast and get regular physical activity focus better and are less likely to gain unhealthy weight.

Policies that improved school-meal quality have been associated with small but meaningful population-level improvements in BMI; out-of-school programs (aftercare, Y camps, sports) also

PARENT'S CORNER

BY MAIA FRANCO

boost activity and healthy eating opportunities. Pack simple, balanced lunches (protein + fruit/vegetables + whole grain) and limit high-sugar drinks. If your child has allergies or special dietary needs, notify the school nurse and teacher ahead of time and bring any needed medications (EpiPen, inhaler) with an action plan.

5) Mental health & transitions Returning to school can bring excitement — and anxiety.

Watch for sleep changes, appetite shifts, withdrawal, or new irritability. If your child shows persistent anxiety or mood changes, contact your pediatrician or school counselor early.

Local pediatric services (for more specialized care or urgent concerns) include pediatric behavioral health providers in the RWJ Barnabas network.

6) Movement and screen time Encourage daily activity — even 20–30 minutes of active play before homework can improve mood and sleep. Limit recreational screen time (create phone-free dinner or homework zones) and model healthy use: kids mirror adult habits. For child care, after-school activities, and safe places to be active, YMCA branches and other local programs offer convenient options in Monmouth County.

7) Know where to go when you need care — and when it’s urgent For routine care and school physicals, use your child’s pediatrician. For urgent issues during the school year (fevers that don’t respond to meds, breathing trouble, suspected concussion, severe allergic reactions), know your closest pediatric urgent care or emergency department: Unterberg Children’s Hospital at Monmouth Medical Center provides pediatric urgent and emergency services in Long Branch. Keep important phone numbers (pediatrician, school nurse, poison control 1-800-222-1222) programmed in your phone.

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BUDDY of Freehold

BUOY and JETTY of Freehold

DR. JEKYLL and MR. HYDE of Morganville

JOJO of Howell

NUGGET and KIP of Freehold

CASEY of Freehold

ELEANOR of Freehold

RUBY of Freehold

Your pets can be celebrities too.

Send in a photo to info@CommunityMagazineNJ.com

Gameday Mascots:

Bruce & Bandit — Your Hormone Optimization Hype Team

M Four-legged Fun! Barktastic places to hang out with your pets this month and beyond Wheelhouse Distilling Company, Neptune City — Located near the corner of 6th Avenue and Memorial Drive in Neptune City, Wheelhouse Distilling Company is a new spot that is entirely dog friendly. Known for their house made craft sprits and menu of mixed drinks, Wheelhouse Distilling Company offers great outdoor and indoor spaces to kick back and enjoy some time with your canine companion. www.wheelhousedistillingnj.com Beach Tavern, Monmouth Beach — If you are looking for a place to do some dining with your pooch, Beach Tavern in Monmouth Beach is the place. Located adjacent to the Channel Club Marina, Beach Tavern offers a rich menu with unbeatable views of the Shrewsbury River. Dogs are welcomed at the outdoor eating area near the water’s edge. It’s a perfect spot if you are looking for someplace special. www.beachtavernnj.com Purple Gaze Donuts, Asbury Park — This donut shop in downtown Asbury Park serves up freshly made handcrafted donuts with a huge selection for humans and dogs alike! Their menu includes vegan and gluten free options and doggie treats as well. Purple Gaze is a great way to start the day with a coffee and Fido! www.purpleglazedonuts.com Popamora Point Beach, Highlands — To enjoy the local’s summer and to enjoy the waves, check out the Popamora Point Beach located along the Henry Hudson Trail in the Highlands. One of the only public dog beaches in Monmouth County, the Popamora Point Dog Beach is a great place to relax and cool off with your four-legged friend! Please be sure to check all the rules and regulations on the Monmouth County Parks website. www.monmouthcountyparks.com/index.aspx

eet the two fabulous pups greeting all who enter Gameday Men’s Health in Holmdel: Bruce — Adopted just 3 months ago, Bruce is the extrovert of the crew. He’s a professional mood booster who greets every patient like an old friend. Whether you’re low on energy, confidence, or testosterone, Bruce is here to remind you you’re doing the right thing by walking through that door. He will demand pets—think of it as emotional support for your hormone journey.

Bandit — Our seasoned vet, Bandit’s been with us for from Day 1. He’s selective with his attention (unless you have snacks), but don’t be fooled—he’s a silent guardian of men’s health. Bandit specializes in giving you the judgment-free stare you need when discussing the awkward stuff like libido, stamina, or performance. Earn his trust, and you’ll never feel judged again.

From low T to weight loss to sexual health, Bruce and Bandit are here to support the mission: Helping guys take back their strength, confidence, and edge—one tail wag at a time. gamedaymenshealth.com/holmdel-nj/

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HEALTH CORNER

September Is

HEALTHY AGING MONTH

BY MAIA FRANCO

S

eptember marks Healthy Aging Month, a nationwide observance encouraging older adults to embrace meaningful and health-supportive lifestyles. For adults 45 and older, this is the perfect opportunity to align science-backed wellness strategies with local programs and events designed to uplift and empower.

Insights from Recent Research: • Volunteering slows aging: A Social Science & Medicine study found that volunteering 1–4 hours per week correlated with slower biological aging in adults aged 62+, likely due to reduced stress and increased social engagement.

• New learning strengthens cognition: Engaging in mentally challenging activities, such as digital photography, arts, or crafts, has been shown to improve memory and executive function in older adults.

• Strength and balance prevent falls: Adults lose about 2% of muscle per year after age 50. Resistance and balance training, including Pilates or structured programs like Otago, significantly reduce fall risk.

• Proactive eye care supports independence: The National Eye Institute notes that many age-related vision issues (ex. cataracts, glaucoma) are manageable if detected early, helping maintain safety.

Local Community Resources: • Division on Aging, Disabilities & Veterans Services / ADRC The ADRC connects older residents (60+) and caregivers to health services, housing, nutrition, transportation, and more through a trusted, centralized resource. monmouthadvs.com • Monmouth Arts “Creative Aging” Program This initiative offers free, weekly visual arts workshops at local senior centers—building social connection, mental stimulation, and creative expression. monmoutharts.org • SCAN (Senior Citizens Activities Network) A nonprofit offering reduced-cost classes and workshops— ranging from art to yoga—as well as benefit enrollment assistance for older adults. scannj.org • Ocean Township Senior Services Events this September include a “Visiting Angels Lunch & 38

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Learn” (Sept 18), a Monmouth County Listening Session (Sept 26), and a regular Bingo event (Sept 29), held at Don & Marie Curtis Senior Center in Oakhurst. oceantwp.org

Upcoming September Events for Older Adults • September 18: Visiting Angels Lunch & Learn Oakhurst’s Don & Marie Curtis Senior Center — an opportunity for seniors to engage, learn, and enjoy a shared meal. oceantwp.org • September 26: Monmouth County Listening Session Oakhurst senior center — a chance to share ideas, concerns, and connect with county representatives. oceantwp.org • September 29: BINGO for Seniors Social fun and community interaction continues with BINGO at the same senior center. oceantwp.org • Ongoing: Creative Aging Art Workshops Weekly visual art programs hosted by Monmouth Arts at local senior centers (Red Bank, Long Branch, Eatontown, Keyport, Asbury Park). monmoutharts.org Tips for a Health-Supporting September • Volunteer weekly — Even a few hours can enrich your sense of purpose and slow aging.

• Try new classes — Join a SCAN art, wellness, or language workshop for mental stimulation and socializing.

• Stay active and balanced — Look into fall-friendly programs focusing on strength and balance, potentially via senior centers.

• Protect your vision — Schedule an eye exam if you haven't in the past year.

• Connect and engage — Attend the Senior Center “Lunch & Learn,” “Listening Session,” or fun programs like Bingo.

• Explore creativity — Join Monmouth Arts’ Creative Aging series and socialize while expressing yourself artistically.

Healthy Aging Month is about blending evidence-based wellness with community support. In Monmouth County, you don’t just grow older—you grow healthier, wiser, and more connected. Take a step into September by attending an event, learning something new, or picking up a paintbrush!

Local History

Joseph Murray — a Middletown Patriot

BY WILLIAM GARDELL, MA

A

t Poricy Park in Middletown you can still visit and tour a sturdy red farmhouse that was built in 1770 by a largely forgotten patriot named Joseph Murray.

Murray came to New Jersey with his mother Elizabeth in 1767. Not unlike many ScotsIrish immigrants who left Northern Ireland in the 18th century and came to the New World. The Scot-Irish were the descendants of Scottish Protestants, mostly Presbyterians, who left Scotland after being encouraged to settle in the largely Catholic Ireland (which was ruled by England at the time). The Scots-Irish were generally considered a rebellious lot (which is why they were encouraged to leave Scotland in the first place).

They tended to be the largest group of settlers in the British Colonies in North America that settled in what was the frontier of the 1700s. The land was cheap, but life was dangerous along the frontier. These hardy people formed a buffer between the more “civilized” cities such as Boston and New York and the Native Americans who still controlled the interior.

Murray was a stone mason by trade and he settled in Middletown on a 40-acre farm with his wife Rebecca Morris.

They had a daughter and three sons, the first of which was born in 1771. Murray, like many Scot-Irish immigrants had no love for the British Crown and joined the Monmouth County Militia when the American Revolution began, fighting on the Patriot side for the newly formed United States. In 1779 his home was raided by Loyalists, (Americans who stayed loyal to the British Crown), and Murray was imprisoned in New York City. He was released by the British in 1780 and he was reported to have walked across the then frozen New York Bay from Manhattan back to Middletown. An impres-

sive feat during any time period. He resumed his militia duties and at one point commandeered at least one horse from a local prominent Loyalist named Edward Taylor, the owner of what is now known as the Marlpit Hall on Kings Highway in Middletown. Taylor’s son, George Taylor, was serving as a colonel of a group of Loyalist raiders operating out of British-controlled Sandy Hook. The horses were taken to be used by Washington’s Army and of course Taylor was not thrilled about this.

On June 8th, 1780 Murray was tending to his own farm when he was shot in the back and then bayonetted by three men and died of his wounds. These men almost certainly worked for Edward Taylor and had targeted Murray for “stealing” Taylor’s horse, a very valuable asset in the 1700s. Later on, Patriot friends of Murray, including Mathias Conover, would track down and shoot one of the men suspected of killing Murray.

This was an example of the low-level civil war that characterized the American Revolution in Monmouth County. It was really neighbor against neighbor, particularly in Middletown which had a sizable Loyalist population. Many used the war as an excuse to settle old scores and perceived offenses. Some men, both Loyalists and Patriots would raid and rob their neighbors and take what they could in the name of whichever cause better suited them.

Murray is buried in the Old First Church in Middletown.

He was a brave American who served his new nation. The war was fought not in a distant land but literally on his homestead, putting both his life and family at risk. He ultimately paid the ultimate price for the exploits that he performed during the American Revolution. And, for that reason, he deserves to be remembered.

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5 Environmentally Friendly Businesses in Monmouth County

M

onmouth County, New Jersey, has a growing network of businesses that combine economic success with environmental responsibility. From breweries in repurposed buildings to refill shops reducing plastic waste, these local enterprises are redefining what it means to be sustainable in the Garden State. Here are five environmentally conscious businesses in Monmouth County that are not only serving the community but also serving the planet.

1. The Whitechapel Projects – Long Branch Situated in a reclaimed warehouse in downtown Long Branch, The Whitechapel Projects is a chef-founded, farm-totable restaurant that personifies green transformation. Marilyn Schlossbach turned a historic structure into a modern culinary space by preserving original bricks, reclaimed timbers, and tin ceilings—minimizing demolition waste and construction emissions. Inside, the restaurant uses LED lighting and Energy Star-rated appliances, and grows its own herbs, mushrooms, and berries to slash food miles.

The Whitechapel was among the first restaurants in New Jersey to eliminate plastic straws, opting instead for compostable or reusable alternatives. It carefully sources from local farms and vendors and sends nearly all food scraps—including peels, bones, and even latex gloves—to a local composting firm, Un-Waste. Proceeds support the nonprofit Food for Thought by the Sea, which educates area youth about sustainable agriculture and culinary practices, furthering the restaurant’s environmental mission. www.WhiteChapelProjects.com 2. Wild Honeysuckle General Store – Long Branch Located just two blocks from the Atlantic Ocean, Wild Honeysuckle General Store champions zero-waste living. Certified by the City of Long Branch as a green business, it stocks refillable household items, clothing from recycled textiles, and eco-conscious crafts. The store encourages patrons to bring their own jars, streamlining packaging waste. It offers shampoo bars, toothpaste tablets, laundry powders, cloth produce bags, and beeswax wraps—products vetted for sustainability, biodegradability, and clean ingredients.

The adjoining café features herbal teas, vegan snacks, gluten-free baked goods, and dairy-free ice cream, reinforcing their eco-friendly ethos. The shop hosts workshops—from DIY cleaners to composting tips—cultivating a community passionate about reducing waste. By combining everyday essentials with educational programming, Wild Honeysuckle is fostering a resilient, low-impact local habitat for eco-minded shoppers.

Find Wild Honeysuckle General Store on Facebook.com.

3. Carton Brewing – Atlantic Highlands Carton Brewing’s Atlantic Highlands location occupies a restored red-brick warehouse, showcasing the brewery’s commitment to adaptive reuse and its region. Established in 2011 by Augie and Chris Carton, the brewer honored historical archi-

tecture and reduced its construction footprint by renovating rather than rebuilding.

Sustainability runs through brewing operations: spent grain is donated to local farms as livestock feed, recycled or composted instead of landfilled. The company also prioritizes water and energy conservation with a carefully tuned brewing system, while their cans and kegs are recyclable—minimizing pollution.

Their tasting room doubles as an educational hub, where visitors can learn about craft brewing sustainability and the ecological care that goes into every pint. www.CartonBrewing.com

4. Frank’s Market & Refillery – Asbury Park Frank’s Market & Refillery, located in downtown Asbury Park, is a zero-waste beacon on Cookman Avenue.

Founded by Frank Giardino, the shop opened in December 2023 to provide accessible green alternatives in a city starved for refill options.

It offers eco-friendly cleaning solutions, personal-care items, and household goods—allowing shoppers to reuse containers and dramatically reduce single-use packaging.

Frank curates only sustainable, toxin-free, fair-trade, and plastic-free products—ranging from spice mixes, dried fruit, and oatmeal to laundry strips and shampoo bars. The refill bar is central, enabling patrons to weigh out exactly what they need—herbs, seasonings, detergents—minimizing waste and cost. www.FranksMarketRefillery.com 5. Delicious Orchards – Colts Neck A Monmouth County institution since 1911, Delicious Orchards has quietly followed sustainable principles. Situated on 125 acres in Colts Neck, this market farm produces apples, peaches and a variety of locally sourced produce and pantry goods. With many items grown on-site or by nearby farms, their supply chain significantly shrinks food miles and fossil-fuel emissions.

The orchard sells directly to consumers, bypassing largescale distributors and reducing packaging waste. Its store includes gluten-free, non-GMO, and organic lines, with energy-efficient facility upgrades and recent composting initiatives. Beyond commerce, the orchard hosts educational events, offering field trips and farm workshops for children— blending agricultural heritage with environmental stewardship. www.DeliciousOrchardsNJ.com

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Just for Kicks Freehold High Schooler Starts Soccer Initiative for Special Needs Kids

BY EMMA SYLVIA

T

here’s nothing like sinking the final ball into the basket, shooting it into the net, sinking it into the hole. Student athletes across the county know this better than anyone – especially Zack Dabby, a 16-year-old resident of Freehold and incoming junior at Freehold Borough High School. Playing sports throughout his life, he found an affinity for soccer at a young age. Beginning his recreational career at age three and joining his first travel team at age seven, Dabby excels with team sports and loves winning with his friends beside him.

At the start of seventh grade, Dabby joined a program called Challengers Sports, which pairs kids with special needs with a buddy in order to play sports. “That’s where I met my friend Jack,” Dabby elaborates. “He’s a player with autism. We have a very special bond, and we still play today.”

Inspired by this friendship, Dabby wanted to do more in order to give back to his community. He began Every Kick Counts, Every Kick Counts is a new initiative that is raising funds to support New Jersey Youth Soccer’s TOPSoccer Program, which provides soccer programming to nearly 1,000 players with mental or physical disabilities.

“I wanted to do more for the community and help kids get

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the same kind of bond that I got with Challengers. It’s really important to me,” Dabby says.

Play by Play On July 11, NJ Youth Soccer hosted Dabby’s event, where more than 50 participants and volunteers took to the FootGolf course at Bel-Aire Golf Course in Wall Township. The event was sponsored by some heavy hitters, including RWJBarnabas Health, the New York Red Bulls, Wegmans, and more, with the Monmouth County Parks System being a key partner to the event as well.

The event itself featured FootGolf, a sport with the rules of golf wherein you kick a soccer ball into a larger hole. “We wanted to do something new,” Dabby says. “Footgolf is a unique growing sport – it’s fun, and not many people know about it.”

Justin Edelman, Senior Vice President, External Communications & Corporate Partnerships for RWJBarnabas clearly saw the value in partnering with Every Kick Counts. “New Jersey Youth Soccer delivers programming such as TOPsoccer that aligns perfectly with RWJBarnabas Health’s commitment to compassionate care and supporting community-based ini-

tiatives where individuals from underserved populations have an opportunity to enjoy recreational activities. FootGolf is such a fun activity, it was truly inspiring to see so many kids with special healthcare needs participate in Every Kick Counts, and I’m thrilled RWJBarnabas Health had an opportunity to support such a worthy cause,” Edelman said.

Footgolf is also more accessible to some players with disabilities. “There was one boy who needed a wheelchair and assistance with walking, but he could participate with help,” explains Evan Dabby, Zack’s father. “It’s adaptable. Every player with different abilities can play at their own speed and skill set.”

“Collaborating with organizations like Every Kick Counts is truly rewarding for us, as they leverage FootGolf’s inclusive nature to raise awareness and facilitate meaningful partnerships,” said Laura Balestrini, CEO of US FootGolf.

“It’s heartening to see FootGolf used as a tool for outreach and bonding, fostering a sense of community and connection for individuals facing challenges.”

Pairing kids with special needs in groups of eight, they went through the course with their buddies interacting with them and helping them.

“They’re friends,” Dabby says. “They went through the course together – and I know I enjoyed it.”

This is the first year for Every Kick Counts, and Dabby intends on making it an annual event. After a heavy social media campaign, reaching out to potential donors, collaborating with the Monmouth County Parks System, and recruiting many of his friends as donors,

Dabby considers the event a success.

“My hope and vision for the future is to increase participation, increase the fundraising for TOPSoccer and share this opportunity with other organizations so that this event can be replicated with other state associations across the country.”

“The event was wonderful,” says Bill Ross, a US Youth Soccer East Regional Representative. “The athletes I was with had a great time. They were so enthusiastic about Every Kick Counts. I would like to see how we can take this blueprint and use it elsewhere. And between what it is doing for the program and the enjoyment that the kids are having, it is just a great day.”

He Shoots, He Scores!

The event wasn’t just thrilling for Dabby. It attracted soccer players far and wide, including Tab Ramos, the former US Men’s National Team Captain, who played and signed autographs after each round.

“Being here for Every Kick Counts was a great experience,” Ramos says.

“What matters is not the experience I had but the experience the kids had. I think you could see on their faces that being out on the course, running around and kicking the ball into the holes was

really exciting for them. It made my day, and I’m sure it was a special day for them as well. I always look at these sorts of events and compare them to my childhood. I feel like I didn’t have a lot growing up, and I always want to give back to kids that may not feel complete and help them have the experience I had.”

The event was transformative for players and buddies alike. “Every Kick Counts was such a blast!” lauds Jonathan Yee, NJYS TopSoccer Chair and buddy volunteer. “We had so much fun all around, and I look forward to participating in this event again.”

“Every Kick Counts was really, really fun,” says participant Jack Constantino, a 16-year-old from Howell. “I got to run like my favorite football player on the Eagles, Saquon Barkley, and I love soccer since I started playing many years ago with Challenger Sports in Freehold.” Constantino’s mother, Michelle Constantino, lauded the buddy system, which allowed her son not only to gain a mentor, but a friend.

“They enjoyed each other’s company, and that is really special,” she says.

The event itself raised close to $10,000, proving that truly, every kick counts, and Dabby is excited to bring this show of camaraderie and play back to Monmouth County next year.

You can follow along with Every Kick Counts on Instagram @everykickcounts25

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AROUND TOWN » FREEHOLD

Freehold Borough Hosts National Night Out

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n August 5, Freehold Borough hosted National Night Out, an annual community-building event organized by local first responders and law enforcement officers with the goal of building community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. This year’s event took place at the Hall of Records in downtown Freehold Borough and was a huge success. The fair-like event featured games, food trucks, and rides. Thank you to the Borough of Freehold and Freehold Police Department for organizing and bringing the community together for a night of fun!

Photo and editorial credit: Borough of Freehold Facebook page

Freehold Township Intermediate Little League Team Plays at World Series

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his summer, Freehold Township Little Leaguers made history. The Intermediate level team, consisting of 11–13-year-olds, won the East Region Championship to qualify for the World Series in Livermore, California. The boys won a game in California before their extremely successful and inspiring season came to an end. Congratulations to the players, coaches, parents, and families who made Freehold Township so proud!

Photo and editorial credit: Freehold Township Little League Facebook page

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

AROUND TOWN » FREEHOLD

Sour Sips for a Good Cause in Freehold Township

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n August 10, Mayor Maureen Fasano and Committee Member Anthony Ammiano teamed up with the Freehold Township Police and DPW to visit the “Sour Power” Liv Like a Unicorn Lemonade Stand at the corner of Three Brooks Road and Apache Trail. Cool drinks and fun times were had by all, and every sip sold went to support Liv Like a Unicorn, which raises funds to help pediatric cancer patients.

Photo and editorial credit: Freehold Township Facebook page

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Check out our digital editions online at monmouthcommunity.com

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE MonmouthCommunity.com

Dinner Show — AND A —

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

Every Monday (September 1, 8, 15, 22, 29) What: Quizzoholics Trivia Where: Deal Lake Bar + Co, Loch Arbour When: 7:30pm - 9:30pm deallakebarco.com

Every Wednesday (September 3, 10, 17, 24) What: Trivia Night Where: Chubby Pickle, Highlands When: 7pm thechubbypicklenj.com

Every Monday (September 1, 8, 15, 22, 29) What: Live Jazz Music Where: Triumph Restaurant & Brewery, Red Bank When: 6 pm – 8pm TriumphBrewing.com

Saturday, September 4 What: DJ Craig Habs Where: The Anchor Tavern, Belmar When: 9 p.m. www.anchortavernnj.com

Every Tuesday (September 2, 9, 16, 23, 30) What: Live Irish Music Where: St. Stephen’s Green Publick House, Spring Lake When: 6 p.m.

SSGPub.com Every Wednesday (September 3, 10, 17, 24) What: Country Night - Live Bands & Line Dancing with Rachael & DJ Mike Nice Where: Bar Anticipation, Lake Como When: 6pm - 10pm bar-a.com Every Wednesday (September 3, 10, 17, 24) What: Boozy Bingo with DJ Lunique Where: Deal Lake Bar + Co, Loch Arbour When: 7pm - 9pm deallakebarco.com

Monday, September 6 What: Howl Where: The Columns, Avon-by-the-Sea When: 8 pm thecolumnsnj.com Tuesday, September 9 What: Bob Egan’s ‘Piano Party’ Where: Tim McLoone’s Supper Club, Asbury Park When: 6:30pm timmcloonessupperclub.com Wednesday, September 17 What: Jade Bird Where: Wonder Bar, Asbury Park When: 7pm wonderbarasburypark.com Saturday, September 20 What: God Street Wine Where: Wonder Bar, Asbury Park When: 7pm wonderbarasburypark.com

CentraState’s 24th Annual Multiple Sclerosis Benefit

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entraState Healthcare Foundation will host the 24th Annual Multiple Sclerosis Benefit at CentraState Medical Center in the Star and Barry Tobias Ambulatory Campus, Freehold Township, on Friday, September 19 from 5:30pm-10pm.

Co-hosted by Vito Cardinale, Carol Stillwell, Barry and Star Tobias. The annual event features food, auctions, fine wine, spirit, craft beer, non-alcoholic wine and mocktail tasting as well as raffles, games and photo booths. More than forty wines from around the world will be poured by the distributors of Max’s Beer Wine and Liquor, along with cuisine provided by the Metropolitan Café and Great Restaurants Catering, both of Freehold.

Guests may upgrade their general admission to include the Gordon Stillwell Tasting Experience hosted by Carol Stillwell, which will offer tastings of opulent Napa Valley wines.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Linda E. Cardinale Multiple Sclerosis Center at CentraState Medical Center. The goal of the MS Center is to provide comprehensive, high-quality care to patients with MS through accurate diagnosis, education, establishment of an appropriate plan of care, and executing an individualized treatment plan. Also offered at the center is a 12-week comprehensive wellness program that is the first of its kind on the East Coast. This life-affirming program is designed to address the physical and psychological challenges associated with MS, and helps strengthen one’s mind and body through education, aquatics, and exercise.

For more information, call 732-294-7030, email foundation@centrastate.com or visit http://www.centrastatefoundation.org/special-events/msbenefit

Kean University Celebrates with a Day at the Beach

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n Wednesday, July 23, at the beach in Long Branch, faculty, students, friends and family celebrated Kean University’s “Kean Day at the Beach.” Dedicated to the wellness of those that make Kean University one of Forbes’s top ranked workplaces in New Jersey, school President Lam-

ont Repollet said, “The vibe is incredible. We talk about a sense of belonging and community, and nothing says that more than being able to bring your family to your workplace. We have numerous activities throughout the year that support wellness.

The work gets done. Why not have a day at the beach?”

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SUPPORTS LOCAL COMMUNITIES

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East Brunswick East Windsor Edison Ewing Fischer Blvd, Toms River Freehold Hadley Commons

Hamilton Marketplace Hamilton Square Hazlet Howell Jackson Lacey Twp Lawrenceville

Manahawkin Manchester Marlboro Twp Middletown Montgomery Twp Neptune North Brunswick

Pennington Wall Twp Rt 37, Toms River Waretown Sayreville West Long Branch Shrewsbury Woodbridge Somerville Middletown South Brunswick Freehold South Plainfield Neptune

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FRESH Cheese Counter Dearborn Market is a specialty grocery market, garden center & farm, owned & operated by the Saker family. Dearborn started as a roadside farm stand in 1925 & has grown over time to include a 5,000 sq ft delicatessen, a gourmet catering kitchen, a fresh in-store Bakery, an old world butcher, & an 11,000 sq ft area of greenhouses & garden center.