CM: Colts Neck • Holmdel • Lincroft - February 2019

C O LT S N E C K • H O L M D E L • L I N C R O F T

FEBRUARY 2019 EDITION

PETE HEGSETH

Fighting the War for

American

Values

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ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS $635,000 HOLMDEL $549,900 45 E. Highland Avenue 135 Crawfords Corner Road 6 Red Coach Lane 76 Asbury Avenue 12 Maacka Drive Nina Decker - 732.720.9335 Thomas Connors - 732.673.2836 HOLMDEL | $1,249,900 FREEHOLD | $619,900 HOLMDEL | $1,799,000

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COVER STORY

Pete Hegseth: Fighting the War for American Values

Tel: 848.456.1071 | Fax: 732.852.2571 CommunityMagazineNJ.com editor-in-chief

C A R O LY N B U R T N I C K

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L O R I D O N N E L LY

graphic designers

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E R I C A PA R K E R OLIVIA MAZANEC

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L I L I A N N PA R A S C AT H Y PA D I L L A

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MARIA CONNORS

contributing editors

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SUSAN MURPHY SHANNA POLIGNONE HOPE DANIELS G E N A A N S E L L-L A N D E DONNA BERIONT M I C H A E L B AT E M A N

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Meet Your Neighbor: Mary Ellen Pahira - Heart, Soul and Grit, a Real Love Story with Delicious Eats and a Second ‘I do’ to Ring in the New Year!

Shirley Anderson Reflects on Her 20+ Years as former Principal; Conover Road School in Colts Neck Turns 50

photography

MELISSA AMORELLI TOM ZAPCIC

publisher

V I C T O R V. S C U D I E R Y be a part of CM We accept pet photos, local event listings, fundraiser & important life announcements (engagement, wedding, baby) and more!

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26

One Child Gives Life to Many Monmouth County Couple Uses Grief to Found The Kortney Rose Foundation MONTHLY FEATURES

30 54

COVER PHOTO: FOX NEWS

Meet Your Neighbor: Ann Pennington Mrs. New Jersey United States 2018

Pet Celebrities Divorce Talk

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Eventful

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Note from the Editor It may be the shortest of the months, but February is always full with chocolate hearts, football, snow days, Mardi Gras, and the hope that spring isn’t too far off with a groundhog that often sees his own shadow. George Washington’s Birthday celebration will fall on Monday, February 18 and marks the last Federal holiday until we unofficially kick off summer with Memorial Day in May. I was surprised when I realized all the other celebratory days in between aren’t considered national holidays. And it got me thinking how many things there are that we unofficially celebrate, and how often we find ways to mark our years and lives with parties and gatherings. We enjoy having special days to look forward to, breaks in the hectic pace of our everyday.

FEB 22

An Intimate Evening with Rickie Lee Jones

In this issue of CM, we’re taking a deeper look into a few of the things we celebrate or honor. Our cover story, Pete Hegseth: Fighting the War for American Values on page 43, shares our exclusive interview with one decorated American hero turned news broadcaster and helps to mark our appreciation to our American soldiers. Each year the week of February 14 is set aside as the National Salute to our current veterans of the U.S. armed forces, especially those cared for in veterans affairs hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. We think you’ll enjoy learning more about Pete’s journey in Cuba, Afghanistan, and Iraq, and encourage you to find ways to interact with veterans in our community.

A Man and His Prostate with Ed Asner

MAR 23

MAR 22

Hairspray Sing-Along with host Jeremy Grunin!

Robert Eric’s Piano Man: A Tribute to Billy Joel

MAR 30

MAR 31

Introducing Alexis Morrast Béla Fleck and Abigail Washburn

Group discounts available P For the complete 2018-2019 performance schedule, visit

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Box Office Hours P Mon.-Fri. P 10:00am-5:00pm 732.255.0500 P College Drive P Toms River P NJ

APR 5

On February 23 and 24 there will be a local celebration of a life cut short that still manages to inspire lasting changes for the children in our area. On page 33, you will find the story of Kortney Rose and the Foundation named for the 9-year-old who died from an untreatable form of cancer.

Her parents have turned their grief into action and are changing the way the dreaded disease is researched. You can help by meeting some friends for breakfast or lunch during the 10th Annual Great Food for a Great Cause at any Turning Point Restaurant.

Inside you’ll find articles on local alumni being honored, a feature on Mrs. New Jersey who happens to be a neighbor, as well as several other stories on events and happenings in Monmouth County. We at CM hope you find a way to celebrate each day in February, even if it’s just coffee with a friend. After all, every day is special in some way.

-EDITOR IN CHIEF

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Holmdel Hornets D14 Competitive Cheer Team Scores Big

By Susan Murphy

Members of the Holmdel Hornets D14 competitive cheer team were ecstatic with their recent wins in October and November, 2018. The team consists of 23 girls ranging in age from 11 to 13 years old. Head Coach Jennifer Baker, who has been coaching as an assistant or head coach for seven years, said the team is extremely motivated and determined to do well in the competitions.

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top spot by a mere two-tenths of a point,” said Baker.

The girls competed in a Jersey Shore competition for New Jersey teams only on October 21, 2018 and placed first in their division. The top teams in each division moved on to a multi-state competition known as the Big East. On November 17, 2018, at the Sun Bank Arena in Trenton, the Holmdel Hornets D14 Large White Team competed in the American Youth Center (AYC) Big East Competition. They had the highest score of 47 teams in their session – 70.5. “This meant that the team won the Grand Champions award as well as first place in their division. The top three teams in each division then moved on to compete at the AYC National Competition in Florida – and the Holmdel Hornets was one of those teams,” explained Baker.

Baker shared that in order to be ready for these competitions the team began a fourday a week practice at Holmdel High School, starting in July. The girls began conditioning and learning a half-time dance and sideline cheers for football games; attended a three-day choreography camp in August at Premier All Stars where they worked with a professional choreographer to learn their competition routine; and once school started, they worked on fine-tuning their routine every Saturday morning for two hours at Premier with Coach Janee and Coach Tabatha. They also practiced twice a week at Holmdel High School or Premier. She noted that the team has four high school “demonstrators” who volunteered their time to create and teach the girls’ game-day routines and cheers. The demonstrators also helped them practice their competition routine.

“Theirs is a very intense season, and the girls have to be extremely committed and disciplined, spending countless hours learning and perfecting their competition routine,” said Baker.

At the December AYC National Competition at Silver Spurs Arena in Kissimmee, Florida, the Holmdel Hornets scored 140.3 as first runners-up. “They were extremely close to winning first place in their division, with the first place team nudging them out of the

The team also cheers-on the football team every Sunday during the season, and many of the girls have taken additional tumbling lessons to improve their skills. “Although we had a few obstacles this year with girls who had to miss practices and competitions

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due to injuries, this team had the strength and ability to adapt and change their routine for competition to accommodate injured girls (whether they were missing or returning),” Baker noted. She remarked that the girls are extremely competitive and really shine when they “hit the mat.” Baker emphasized, “There’s a strong feeling of camaraderie and support among the girls, and they are always there to pick each other up, both literally and figuratively. Our team is well-rounded and many of the girls were honored by AYC for their academic achievements. They are also involved in numerous other activities, such as dance, gymnastics, basketball, softball, Girl Scouts, acting, singing, field hockey, lacrosse, and many others.”

With the Florida competition now over, Baker said, “The girls get a well-deserved rest! We will not start practicing together as a team until late July or early August.

Our D14 members would not have been so successful without the support of their wonderful families, my assistant coaches Renee Pescatore, Cara Masucci, Dora Hancock and Mary Rice, and our High School demonstrators Nikki, Victoria, Katie and Riley.”

Baker noted that the Holmdel Football Association provides a great opportunity for girls and boys to participate in youth football and cheer with a strong sense of community.

Congratulations HOLMDEL REGIONAL OFFICE’S 2018 NJ REALTORS® CIRCLE OF EXCELLENCE SALES AWARD® RECIPIENTS We applaud your outstanding achievements and commitment to excellence!

Gold Level

Doreen DeMarco

Silver Level

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Bronze Level

Rhonda Beck-Edwards

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Colts Neck Architecture Review Committee Presents Three Awards

By Susan Murphy Colts Neck Architecture Review Committee (ARC) Chairman Freeholder Lillian Burry and committee member Paul Gassert presented three awards on December 18, 2018. The presentation was held at the home of committee member Jan Anania.

The Excellence in Architectural Design awards were not given for some years as they were not funded by the Township.

They were started again in 2016. Burry initiated the Architecture Review Committee during her tenure as Mayor in Colts Neck.

The Committee has assisted many homeowners with design ideas and provides guidelines for new construction, additions or renovations in town. In the past, the Architecture Review Committee rewarded

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one business and two residences that stood out for architectural design.

124 Cedar Drive. This was the inspiration of George Dittmar who was then Mayor. He sent his architect to Williamsburg, Virginia to study the buildings. The Colts Neck Town Hall is fashioned after the Court House in Williamsburg. Frank Rizzuto was the Township Committee’s Liaison to the Architecture Review Committee.

Subcommittee members Lillian Burry, Paul Gassert, and Michael Taeschler determined this year’s winners. The Excellence in Architectural Design awards were given to three winners. The residence of Jack and Marissa Dugo, 6 Scobeyville Drive, was a custom home built in 2016 on two acres “This was a wonderful ending for an

by Architect, Mike Munroe. The owners outstanding year for the Colts Neck wanted a French style home with great at- Architecture Review Committee. I wish to tention given to detail. Secondly, the Colts express my gratitude to the hosts, Jan and Neck Stillhouse located at 304 Route 34 Joe Anania for a fitting start to the holiday is a business owned by Geoff Karch. This season. I would also like to thank my rebusiness was an exceptionally attractive markable committee for their dedication piece of architecture with a barn-like theme and their hard work throughout the years,” which has a contemporary flare. The final said Burry. site chosen was Colts Neck Town Hall at

Left to right: Frank Rizzuto (ARC Liaison), Eric Oberer, Marilyn Gentile, Paul Gassert, Lillian Burry (ARC Chair), Jan Anania, Joan Norkus, Michael Taeschler, Michele Battista (ARC Secretary), and Charles Tappen.

2018 Architecture Review Committee Awardee: The residence of Jack and Marissa Dugo, 6 Scobeyville Drive in Colts Neck.

2018 Architecture Review Committee Awardee: The Colts Neck Stillhouse located at 304 Route 34 is a business owned by Geoff Karch.

2018 Architecture Review Committee Awardee: The Colts Neck Town Hall at 124 Cedar Drive.

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MEET YOUR NEIGHBOR

Mary Ellen Pahira, Owner of Colts Neck General Store Heart, Soul and Grit, a Real Love Story with Delicious Eats and a Second ‘I do’ to Ring in the New Year!

By Jeanne Wall

Publisher and Editor, TAPinto Holmdel, Colts Neck, and Middletown Sign-up for free daily online news for Holmdel & Colts Neck at TAPinto.net/enews.

Mary Ellen Pahira – owner of the Colts Neck General Store The town of Colts Neck is often referred to as the ‘Jewel of Monmouth County’. When one becomes very acquainted, it is soon realized that it’s much more than the charm of sprawling farmland and large homes nestled deep on multiple acres of tree lined properties.

It’s a town carefully preserved in more ways than the open wide fields perfect for viewing sunsets. It’s more than the uninterrupted landscape, horse farms and parks. There are pockets in the town where you find the grit, the heart and soul of ‘the jewel’, and it takes you back to a time when there were the ‘regulars’ and they welcomed the strangers. One of those pockets is the Colts Neck General Store, built in 1849, a time when they still used tree trunks in basements as support beams to hold up the building. The grit is Mary Ellen Pahira, the 28 year-young owner who puts her heart and soul into preserving human connectivity while delivering delicious homestyle cooking served in an atmosphere much like ‘going back home’ to visit with family.

“I fell in love with the town and with this store and I gave it my everything.”

2018 Colts Neck Mayor JP Bartolomeo, a regular at the General Store comments, “The Colts Neck General Store is the

quintessential Colts Neck Business. It’s a throwback to yesteryear, feel good food. Everyone knows everyone.” The General Store’s ‘sandwich of the month’ on the menu board recently was called “The Mayor’s Sandwich,” one of JP’s healthy creations: turkey on whole wheat wrap with egg whites, swiss and avocado.

TAPinto sat down with Mary on one of her sofa’s in the T.V. nook of her store. From the moment you walk up the front steps onto the painted wood floor of the front porch and open the door that squeaks and slams shut behind, many realize ‘this is different...and familiar’. It can feel like going to visit close family, where you feel comfortable to relax and unwind.

Mary Ellen says, “I grew up in Holmdel my entire life and I graduated from Holmdel High School in 2008. I started working at Delicious Orchards in Colts Neck in the bakery while I was in high school and continued working there while I took classes at Brookdale. On our breaks at Delicious Orchards, we would always order food from The General Store, like pork roll, egg and cheese, and the food was so good! Then I started going in the store and really enjoyed it because not only was the food great, but the people were the reason that I quickly grew to love the store. I wanted to be a part of it. So, one day the owner Glen Asher asked me if I would work there and offered to pay me one dollar more than what I was getting paid at Delicious Orchards, and I took the job in 2009. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I fell in love with the town and with this store and I gave it my everything. The clientele was mainly male when I started to work here. I began CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE >>

CommunityMagazineNJ.com FEBRUARY 2019

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decorating and asking the owners Glen and his wife Jill to buy new furniture and paint the walls. I brought in cloth and flowers to decorate. I started to change the look and feel of the store to attract more women and families and the best part of it was that the former owners (Glen and Jill) supported all my suggestions and it worked. We started to get more and more families in.”

Mary became a manager of the store, sometimes taking over completely for a couple weeks at a time when the Ashers went on vacation. They entrusted her with everything from ordering the food supplies to day-to-day management. Mary continues, “The Ashers lived in the house attached to the store and when they were away, I would stay here and manage everything, and I mean everything; the store, the house and their dogs.”

Mary wanted a ‘piece of the pie’ and she wasn’t shy about it. She expressed her wishes to the owners several times. She had been working at the store about six years when one day in 2016, the owner Glen told her that he and his wife were going to sell the store and that they would give her first right to buy if she wanted it, and that she had one year to figure it out. Long story short; a year later in 2017, Mary bought the business.

Something else amazing and life changing happened in 2017 as well. In a spontaneous

Mike and Mary Ellen Pahira had a spontaneous Halloween-themed wedding held at the Colts Neck General Store.

show up for the most fun wedding ever and they did. Our ceremony was out back behind the store here, with a lot of pumpkins and fall decor. After the ceremony Mike and I changed into our Guardians of the Galaxy costumes. I was painted green! We had one amazing wedding/Halloween party. Then Mike and I, a couple weeks ago, in December (2018) tied the knot again, this time at St. Catharine’s Church in Holmdel.

It’s a really great way to start the new year for us. My grandmother kept coming to me in my dreams telling me that I needed to get married in the church. So, we made it happen!” Mike comments, “What I love most about Mary is her drive and passion, aside from thinking she’s the most gorgeous girl in the world.”

“What I love most about Mary is her drive and passion, aside from thinking she’s the most gorgeous girl in the world.”

Halloween themed wedding held at The General Store, Mary married Mike, her fiancé of five years, a regular at the General Store. Mary Ellen’s husband, Mike Pahira, also grew up in Holmdel, and is an accountant at the firm WithumSmith + Brown.

Mary comments, “I waited on my now husband Mike for two years before we had a conversation and when we finally did talk that was it, we were engaged shortly after. Then at Halloween time of 2017 we said, ‘let’s do it’ and we called all our close friends, told them to dress in costume and

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Walking into the Colts Neck General Store there is a lot to fill your senses; the aroma of fresh coffee and delicious foods, the various small gift sections with everything from scented candles to local jarred honey, many craft items some made by locals, candies including nostalgic penny candies in jars...but the best part is the down to earth, comfortable country atmosphere that Mary Ellen has created. It’s a nod to the days before the electronic gadget distractions, a visit back to when people walked with their head up (not down looking at their phones) to greet and say hello to others.

Colts Neck General Store is a place to bring

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the family, enjoy a meal, maybe play cards or a board game. It’s a place many locals regularly gather after sports events, shows, etc. Mary Ellen comments, “Every year around graduation time I get very emotional, I’ve seen them come in after their sports games, proms, etc. and then they are off to college. I can’t help getting choked up.”

What’s Mary Ellen’s favorite food at the store? “Personally, for lunch I love the Chicken Delight sandwich. It’s grilled chicken with cole slaw, swiss cheese and bacon all on a delicious roll. I absolutely love it! We have a couple hundred or so people walk in and out every day here. If you haven’t been in stop by to meet us and we know you will love it here. Stay tuned for our 2019 plans for movie and comedy nights, ladies’ nights, and various town events.”

Mary Ellen is a member of the Colts Neck Ladies Auxiliary, a new member of the Historical Preservation, and the Lions Club. She’s been a member of Bridges Out Reach since the time she was a student at Holmdel’s W.R. Satz School, where she began giving food and clothing to the homeless in NYC and has continued those efforts for the past 10 years.

The Colts Neck General Store and Deli is located at 171 Country Road 537 West in Colts Neck. Visit coltsneckdeli.com for more information. The General Store offers discounts for military, police and fire.

Will You Get a Refund or Owe for 2018?

AS A RESULT OF TAX REFORM, most taxpayers will be paying less tax for 2018 than they did in 2017. But that may not translate into a larger refund. Your refund is the amount that your pre-payments (withheld income tax, estimated tax payments, and certain credits) exceed your tax liability, and if the pre-payment also got reduced, you could be in for an unpleasant surprise at tax time.

So, why would the pre-payments, particularly withholding, be less? Simply because the current W-4 form on which employers base the amount of tax to withhold, and the withholding tables provided by the government that employers use to determine the amount to withhold, are not sophisticated enough to deal with the revised tax laws. Congress passed the changes at the 11th hour of 2017, without giving the IRS sufficient time to adjust the W-4 form and withholding tables to account for the changed laws. The IRS did come out with a revised W-4 late in February, but there are serious concerns that the revised W-4 and withholding tables are not coming up with the correct amounts based upon the new tax law and that the form itself is much more complicated for employees to complete than prior versions were. In fact, the government is so concerned about this that the IRS issues almost daily notices cautioning taxpayers to double check their withholding.

Checking one’s withholding does little good, since it is difficult to determine if your withholding will produce near the desired refund result without also projecting what your tax will be for

2018 and then comparing that to your pre-payments, including withholding, for the year. Prior to the tax reform, you generally could use the tax liability from the prior year, compare that against your current year pre-payments, and be pretty confident in what the bottom line would be for the current year.

However, that is not possible for 2018, since the tax computation is significantly different from how it was in 2017 and earlier years.

The IRS is developing a new W-4 form to hopefully do a better job of determining the proper withholding based on your wages but just recently announced that it will continue to use the current W-4 for 2019 and unfortunately won’t be releasing the new one until 2020.

If you count on a large refund to pay other liabilities, such as property taxes, you may want to schedule your tax planning appointment with your CPA to project your 2018 tax and then compare it to your pre-payments to see if you can expect a refund and determine approximately how much it will be.

At the same time, if your pre-payments are short and you end up owing taxes, you could be hit with underpayment penalties.

With the start of the New Year, adjustments to withholding or estimated payments should be made sooner rather than later to produce the desired result at tax time. At H&S Tax and Wealth, we can help you properly plan. Call us today!

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What To Expect at Your Plastic Surgery Consultation You’ll be brought into an examination room where you’ll meet a medical assistant. She’ll ask you questions about your medical history, current medications and supplements and why you chose to come in. Be honest.

If your area of concern is your breasts or body, the medical assistant will ask you to change into a gown in preparation for the exam with the doctor.

You’ve researched your procedure online. You’ve talked with friends who’ve had cosmetic surgery. You’ve found a board-certified plastic surgeon and scheduled an appointment. Here’s what to expect during your plastic surgery consultation.

A consultation is equal parts learning and interview. The actual consultation can last about an hour. While there, you’ll want to evaluate the surgeon, staff, office and outcomes by reviewing before and after photos.

Check in and fill out paperwork if you didn’t do so ahead of time. Some practices mail it or ask you to download it from the website so it’s completed prior to your arrival. This is a great option so you don’t need to deal with it when you get there. Let’s face it, you’re already nervous and excited, at the same time.

When the doctor comes in, he or she will need to know what you want to change about your body and why. Tell the doctor how you feel about yourself now and how you want to feel and look after plastic surgery. Discuss the procedure or set of procedures that would help you achieve your goal. Discuss anesthesia, types of incisions, and recovery time. There are always risks. Make sure the surgeon goes over them.

Ask the surgeon to set realistic expectations. “Every ‘body’ is unique. Your transformation will be based on what you have to start with. You should expect improvement. We can’t make you look like a certain celebrity. We can make you look like a better version of you,” says Dr. Said Samra of Samra Plastic Surgery.

It’s also important to gauge how long the surgeon has been in practice, how many times he or she performed the procedure in which you’re interested as

well as how frequently. Finally, find out where the surgery will take place. It may be a hospital or private surgery center.

If you are interested in more than one surgery or if your outcome requires multiple procedures, you’ll need to discuss if they can be performed at the same time. The other option is to break them up into separate surgeries depending upon time-on-table, recovery time, and finances.

Finally, you’ll meet your patient coordinator. They will go over the costs for your procedure(s). Fees include, operating room costs, anesthesia, devices such as breast implants or compression garments, and follow-up appointments.

They’ll also let you know when deposits and payments are due.

If you choose to book the surgery, the coordinator will schedule pre-op appointments, your surgery date, and postop appointments. They will also go over financing options. There are many zero percent options available if you want to pay off the surgery over time. If you decide to think about it, ask the coordinator how long the quote is valid.

If you’ve been thinking about cosmetic surgery, call Samra Plastic Surgery at 732.739.2100 for a Free Consult during February 2019. It may be easier and more affordable than you think!

CALL FOR ENTRIES INTO JURIED CREATIVE ARTS & MUSIC FESTIVAL Calling all artists! The Monmouth County Park System is seeking entries into its Creative Arts & Music Festival. This juried art show and sale is open to artists of every medium. Those interested in entering are invited to submit images for consideration. The application fee is $15 per person. Entries should be mailed along with a CD of your work, entry form, and fee. Rules and entry form are available at MonmouthCountyParks.com. The entry deadline is February 20.

The Creative Arts & Music Festival will be held from 10:00 am to

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5:00 pm on Saturday, May 4 at Thompson Park, Lincroft. The festival will feature fine art vendors, live music, creative activities, and food vendors. Thompson Park is home to the Park System’s Creative Arts Center, which hosts a variety of fine arts and craft classes throughout the year including ceramics, pottery, jewelry and painting.

To learn more about the Creative Arts & Music Festival or the Park System, please visit MonmouthCountyParks.com or call 732.842.4000.

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Monmouth County Freeholders Hold 2019 Organization Meeting

BUSY PARENTS CHOOSE US For their family’s dental needs!

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Entire Family Seen at Same Time Left to right: Freeholder Director Thomas A. Arnone, Freeholder Lillian G. Burry, Freeholder Gerry P. Scharfenberger, Ph.D., Freeholder Susan M. Kiley and Freeholder Deputy Director Patrick Impreveduto.

Freeholder Gerry P. Scharfenberger, Ph.D. was sworn in to a one year term and Freeholder Susan M. Kiley was sworn in for a three year term by Monmouth County Clerk Christine G. Hanlon. Both Freeholders were issued the oath of office by the Honorable Joseph Oxley, Judge Superior Court Monmouth County.

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“It’s easy to say that you shouldn’t be afraid to go to the dentist. In reality, overcoming dental anxiety can be difficult — but it is possible. I know because I’ve seen it happen time and time again at our practice.”

Changing Lives One Smile at a Time is available on Amazon in paperback and Kindle. For a limited time, Dr. Friedman is providing free copies at his office located at 539 Newman Springs Road in Lincroft.

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MEET YOUR NEIGHBOR

Mrs. New Jersey United States 2018,

Ann Pennington

Photo Credit: Edward Gebel 26

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE www.CommunityMagazineNJ.com

M EET YOU R N EIG H B OR

WHERE I LIVE: I reside in the gorgeous town of Sea Girt. It’s where the cedar meets the sea and our town sign says “Smile You’re in Sea Girt”. The minute you drive in and see that sign you can only feel happy.

myself that was crazy because I didn’t see myself like those women I watched on TV. I competed a few weeks later and won a title, I was in my early 20s. A decade later I am Mrs. New Jersey 2018. So if you believe, you can achieve.

WHAT I DO: I am Mrs. New Jersey United States for 2018. My position is about showing people that we are uniquely brave women with confidence, not only to celebrate and display our beauty and intellect, but bring light to our lives as mothers, wives, and business owners. We have the opportunity to share our platforms for helping those in our community locally and on a national level.

MY NEXT GOAL: To have a program I started called “Style with a Purpose” reach more outlets.

I created this to help young women competing in pageants to be sponsored through my company, Eye for Style, and help them with clothes, photos, mentorship, and more. It’s been so rewarding working with young women and helping them achieve their dreams. I look forward to doing this on a much larger scale in the near future.

MY PURPOSE AND MAIN FOCUS: To bring light to what I find near and dear to my heart, which is bringing awareness to homeless youth. I am a product of homelessness and by holding this title it has helped shine a brighter light and open doors to show people that homelessness can end.

We can help get these amazing humans off the street and help them achieve their purpose. It’s been truly rewarding teaming up with HABcore and Covenant House where I am team captain of a project called Sleepout. We literally sleep on a street to raise funds to support the programs at Covenant House. I hope some of the readers will come join my team this spring and grab a sleeping bag and help us raise funds.

THE BEST PART OF WHAT I DO: I’d have to say I love having my son be part of my journey. He comes to almost all of my appearances and sees what I am doing to make his future better. I hope he’s learning to be aware and why we need to give back.

“Be fearless, and go for it.

It’s not about your outer beauty, it’s about how big your heart is and how you will be a role model in the community.”

WHAT SETS ME APART FROM OTHERS DOING WHAT I DO: Honestly there could only be one Mrs. New Jersey for 2018, and I was lucky enough to have this title bestowed upon me, but every woman I competed with is worthy of the title and would have made a remarkable Mrs. New Jersey.

I am grateful the judges believed in me and gave me this opportunity. I wish I had more than one year because it has been magical. And having my son and husband be part of my journey has made this one of the best years of my life.

WHAT GOT ME STARTED IN PAGEANTS: Many moons ago I used to sit glued to the TV set watching Miss Universe and thinking to myself they were like princesses from a Disney movie. And then one day a women walked up to me and said I’d be perfect to compete at a pageant. I remember thinking to

THE MOST CHALLENGING THING ABOUT WHAT I DO: I wish I had more than 24 hours in my day. Balancing my work of being a fashion stylist dressing the Hamilton cast, a mother, a wife, and being Mrs. New Jersey, I have had to find the right amount of time to dedicate to each area of my life.

It has taught me more about time management.

BEST TIP ABOUT WHAT I DO: Be kind, and have a lot of passion and a mission so fierce nothing will stop you. Be fearless, and go for it. It’s not about your outer beauty, it’s about how big your heart is and how you will be a role model in the community.

We need strong women to look up to at any age. So if you are a married women in New Jersey and are passionate about helping others, reach out to our organization and bring a little more sparkle to the Gorgeous Garden State.

CommunityMagazineNJ.com FEBRUARY 2019

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Families Affected by Cancer Awarded Free Cruises

By Susan Murphy Three families and one honeymoon couple who have been affected by cancer were recipients of free cruises at the annual Kick Cancer Overboard (KCO) Holiday Party held on December 30, 2018. At the premiere event, KCO teamed up with the Count Basie Theatre’s Rockit Academy to give the families a special afternoon to remember. Rockit Academy is a non-profit organization where young musicians perform live at the Count Basie Theatre and other local community events.

Church Cultural Center in Ocean Township. During the afternoon, the group of talented students from Rockit, who ranged in age from eight to eighteen, played and sang classic rock songs and Christmas songs. They kept the audience entertained and encouraged them to join in with the singing and dancing.

The four families will head out on their cruise in June of 2019. They will be joining several other families that Families Awarded Cruises to Bermuda (Salerno, Richert, Fortier & Honeymoon Couple Jillian Hanson and Max Allegretti) get together with Rockit Academy Musicians and Kick Cancer have been awarded vacaOverboard Committee Members. Photo Credit: Tom Zapcic Photography tions this year in a cruise to Bermuda, enjoying the many Kick Cancer Overboard is a non-profit organization that has awarded amenities of a cruise with their family and friends. free cruises to Bermuda for eight years on the Royal Caribbean’s Anthem “Our tireless and talented volunteer team of go-givers has granted more of the Seas. Co-Founders of KCO DonnaLyn Giegerich and Ted Friedli, organize events and fundraisers throughout the year in an effort to raise than 300 ‘to sea for free’ cruises in 8 years,” said Giegerich. awareness and funds for these cruises.

Kick Cancer Overboard (KCO) is a local 501(c)3 not for profit organization “Thanks to a full house and the generosity of all the people attending, that gives away free cruises to people whose lives have been affected by Kick Cancer Overboard was able to surprise 17 people affected by can- cancer. It organizes various local fundraisers throughout the year to supcer with a free cruise to Bermuda,” said Friedli. Guests enjoyed an after- port a specific family or individual on a free cruise for a few days. For more noon at the Buona Sera Palazzo located at the St. George Greek Orthodox information, visit kickcanceroverboard.org.

Colts Neck Business Association Hosts First Meeting of 2019 with Guest Speaker Frank Somma Colts Neck Business Association (CNBA) kicked off 2019 with its first general meeting on January 9, which featured motivational speaker Frank Somma.

The group announced it will be holding its 11th Annual CNBA Luncheon on March 26, 2019 at Trump National Golf Club in Colts Neck.

The mission of the Colts Neck Business Association (CNBA) is to be a dynamic regional organization striving to promote growth, prosperity, and quality of life for our members and community and to be the voice for entrepreneurs, representing, advocating, and working to enhance the business environment in Colts Neck Township. If you are interested in becoming a member of the CNBA, the cost to join is $50 per year, which includes free admission to the Business Card Exchange events, listing in the quarterly mailers, and company listing on the CNBA website. For more information on upcoming events, membership, or general inquiries, visit coltsneckbusiness.org.

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE CommunityMagazineNJ.com

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CM'S Pet Celebrities Your Pets can be celebrities too. Send in a photo to info@communitymagazinenj.com!

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Lucy of Holmdel

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One Child Gives Life to Many Kortney and her dog, Snowball. She loved to put his head on a pillow, cover him with a blanket, and then read to him.

Monmouth County Couple Uses Grief to Found The Kortney Rose Foundation

By Cathy Padilla

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our child has cancer.”

They are words that form one of the most dreaded sentences a parent can hear or imagine. Most try to not think about such things, and for the vast majority, they remain only words and stay tucked in the recesses of the mind where fear and dark thoughts dwell. That wasn’t true for the Gillette family of Oceanport whose lives were forever altered by the reality of the disease in 2005.

Kristen and Rich were married and had been living a busy life working and raising their two daughters, Kasey and Kortney.

Life had its usual challenges, but the holidays were ongoing, the kids were happy, and things were good. On one December day, Kortney, who had just turned nine, wanted to play outside in her energetic, happy way.

There wasn’t anything unusual about the day until Kristen noticed her daughter’s eye looked odd, crossed almost. Days later an MRI revealed a tumor in Kortney’s brainstem. And just like that, in a moment, life for the Gillettes had forever changed.

Pediatric brain tumors are the #1 cause of death by all disease in children. About 43 children per day, or 15,780 children per year, are diagnosed with cancer, with the average age for diagnosis being six. Survival rates have improved, but those who survive often experience many physical setbacks throughout their lives. And for children like Kortney, who are diagnosed with a diffuse intrinsic

pontine glioma (DIPG), there is no effective treatment. DIPG is always fatal.

Your child has cancer, that wasn’t bad enough. Always fatal. What does a parent do with those words? If you’re Kristen Gillette, you make your daughter’s brief life have lasting, far-reaching significance by starting a foundation to impact research for pediatric cancer and help save lives.

While Kortney underwent treatment at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) under the care of Dr. Peter Phillips, Director of CHOP’s Division of NeuroOncology, Kristen and Rich were faced with the frustrations and feelings of powerlessness that come from pediatric cancer, but also the reality of a staggering funding gap.

“When Kortney was diagnosed with the brain tumor we were essentially told that there is absolutely no effective treatment or cure for this tumor, it was about making Kortney comfortable and giving her quality of life for the time she had left,” shared Kristen. “That is never what parents want to hear once their child has been diagnosed with cancer. Then the doctors told us the terrible fact that less than 4% of all federal funding is spent for pediatric cancer research. These two things, and trying to make a negative into a positive, were my reasons to start the Kortney Rose Foundation. I wanted a way to remember Kortney, but also to help other children and families never experience what we did.”

The federal government funds nearly 98% of all cancer research in the U.S. through

the National Cancer Institute (NCI), a federal agency under the National Institutes of Health (NIH) umbrella. The NCI allocates less than four percent of its $5 billion annual budget ($178 million) to all forms of pediatric cancer. Meanwhile, according to the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation, pharmaceutical companies fund only a fraction of a percent of childhood cancer research because they see little financial incentive for investment in such a small patient population. Since 1980, fewer that 10 drugs have been developed for use in children with cancer, only three of which have been approved for use.

Despite children’s brain tumors and other forms of cancer requiring specific research and different types of treatment than are used on adults, little funding, insufficient drug and treatment development, and research that lags nearly two decades behind its adult counterparts, places children with cancer in the shadows. Children like Kortney, who died on April 27, 2006 just four months after being diagnosed.

Kristen and Rich used their grief to fuel them into action, founding The Kortney Rose Foundation (KRF) in 2006. An outpouring of support from the community made their first event in September of that year, Kortney’s challenge 2-Mile Fun Run/Walk in Oceanport, both a success and a reason to go on. The money raised was used for playground equipment at Kortney’s elementary school where the playground was renamed in her honor. But Kristen wanted more than continued on next page

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only to remember her little girl, she wanted her life to have impact and meaning.

After KRF became a full 501(c)3 tax-exempt charity and started raising money to fund research for all types of pediatric brain tumors, Kristen and Rich met with Dr. Phillips at CHOP to discuss how the Foundation could better support research and asked, somewhat naively, why all doctors and hospitals don’t work together to find better solutions.

“Dr. Phillips explained that hospitals, like academic universities, give more money, tenure, and recognition to researchers who make discoveries and then publish them,” said Kristen. “This model has been fueled by the NIH, which rewards researchers with more grants based on previous success. Since it can take up to two years for a researcher to get published, kids could die from DIPG while researchers wait to get credit.

Foundations like ours have become very vocal about this and are driving change by funding only researchers who work collaboratively and share their findings immediately.”

In 2009, the Gillettes learned from Dr. Phillips and his colleague, Dr. Tom Curran, about the Children’s Brain Tumor Tissue Consortium (CBTTC), a new collaborative research initiative between CHOP and three prominent pediatric hospitals. KRF immediately stepped up to help fund this effort and became an original research partner.

KRF’s funding has been instrumental in the expansion of the CBTTC into 17 institutions worldwide.

“The past decade has witnessed the emergence of entirely new technologies in biomedicine that provide for the first time the opportunity for new precision medicine approaches to treat cancer. However, applying these discoveries towards cures for children with brain tumors faces numerous challenges ranging from limited funding for research to the need for increased advocacy and education of patients and families,” said Dr. Adam Resnick, Director of Data Driven Discovery in Biomedicine at CHOP. “The Kortney Rose Foundation, through an unparalleled grass roots effort, has served to uniquely empower the discovery of new precision medicine approaches for kids with brain tumors through their support of the Children’s Brain Tumor Tissue Consortium, a collaborative network of pediatric hospitals dedicated to open access, data-driven discoveries in pediatric cancer.”

Kortney doing one of her favorite things in life, a water slide at Animal Kingdom Lodge in Disney World, 2003.

How You Can Help 10th Annual Great Food for a Great Cause Saturday, February 23 Sunday, February 24 Turning Point Restaurants Volunteers and Patrons Needed!

Kristen and Rich Gillette with The Kortney Rose Foundation stand in front of the glass ingot that was placed in the entry wall at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia when the Foundation was inducted into the Chairman’s Circle for donors who have donated $1 million or more to CHOP in 2015

KRF is responsible for nearly $1.7 million dollars donated to pediatric brain tumor research in the past 12 years. In 2015 the group was inducted into CHOP’s Chairman Circle for donors of $1 million or more. The Foundation’s next goal is to hit the $2 million mark.

“The journey of Kortney’s illness has allowed our family to meet so many wonderful people we would never have met otherwise. It’s been a wonderful testament to the good in the world. It’s rewarding for me when I have the opportunity to speak to students and get them excited to help other kids,” shared Kristen. “It has taken me many years to figure this out, but I finally believe that Kortney was put on this earth to touch the many people she did when she was alive and also to inspire me to create The Kortney Rose Foundation to help effect change through research funding and advocacy in the lives of other children with brain tumors. This is how we have created Kortney’s legacy.”

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE CommunityMagazineNJ.com

The Kortney Rose Foundation partners with the Turning Point Restaurant organization to raise significant funding for pediatric brain tumor research. During the past 9 years the patrons of the Turning Point Restaurants, through this fundraiser, have helped donate more than $328,000 for research. Last year, a phenomenal $74,000 was raised with a goal to meet or exceed that amount this year.

Kortney’s Challenge 2 Mile Fun Run/Walk at Monmouth Park August 4, 2019 14th annual event to get everyone moving for a great cause! The two-mile distance allows people of all ages and fitness levels to participate.

For more information, visit The Kortney Rose Foundation at thekortneyrosefoun-

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Conover Road School in Colts Neck Turns 50 Shirley Anderson Reflects on Her 20+ Years as former Principal

BY SUSAN MURPHY

T

heir principal drove up in a royal blue corvette, a sight former Conover Road Students remember fondly. Mrs. Anderson, a Colts Neck resident, was the first principal of Conover Road School when it opened 50 years ago, remaining there for 21 years before she retired. “I came to Colts Neck in 1965 and became the principal of Atlantic Elementary, which has since closed. I was blessed to be in on the ground floor when they built Conover. I loved my job and today everywhere I go I frequently see my former students, who are now grown up.”

When the school opened, it housed grades Kindergarten through fifth, and as the town grew fifth grade moved to Cedar Drive Middle. The original name of the school was Conover Road School. It is now called Conover Road Elementary School and houses grades third, fourth and fifth.

During her 21 years as principal, Mrs. Anderson recalled some funny and her most enjoyable moments. “I especially looked forward each year to the Kindergarten Pet Show. The children would bring in their pet and if they didn’t have a live pet they brought in a stuffed animal. My funniest memory was one day looking through the office window into the parking lot and a car pulled up. The door was opened and a goat stepped out! It was such a fun activity. And the students received certificates for their pets such as the pet with the longest whiskers or the longest tail. It was a wonderful time for the students and for me.” She also loved the musical performances.

her by saying she had a run in her stocking.

The memories shared by Mrs. Anderson included dressing up for the school’s Halloween Parade; being able to watch the birth of baby chicks which had been one teacher’s project; and on April Fool’s Day she enjoyed how the little ones tried to fool

Mrs. Anderson recalled the teachers using success cards to acknowledge how well the children were doing in their class work and in their interaction with one another.

She said they always wanted to emphasize the positive. “I believe that even just a gen-

“I always said I had the best job in town," said Mrs. Anderson. “From Kindergarten through fifth grade the changes in a student are incredible. They are so innocent and they tell you the way it is and just how they see things. They were just honest and open and it was fun. I would meet them all at the buses in the morning and then see them again at the end of the day. I knew each child by name, which was helpful in maintaining discipline. They were a well-behaved group of children and their parents were so supportive. It was a wonderful life at Conover.”

continued on next page CommunityMagazineNJ.com FEBRUARY 2019

37

tle pat on the shoulder says something positive to a student. I am a hugger and feel that a hug is a profound form of communication.

It’s a message being sent that you care.”

She said the teachers showed so much kindness and offered special attention to those who needed it. “One young boy who came to us from another state was a bit rough around the edges but we worked together as a school, from his peers to teachers to the staff, and he turned himself around. He turned into the most wonderful child. At one point during a chat we had in my office, he looked at me and said, ‘You really do believe in me don’t you Mrs. Anderson.’ It was so emotional!”

when I see a former student they still ask ‘Do you still have the ‘vette Mrs. A?’ And I do. In fact, I drive it in the Colts Neck Memorial Day Parade. When I pass a former student on the parade route they yell out to me how happy they are I still have it. I suppose if I did sell the car it would ruin my image!” she laughed.

During Anderson's time at Connover she drove a 1973 Corvette. She recalled how much the children loved her car. “To this day

“When I was principal at Conover Road School we had a fabulous group of teachers. We worked together, we enjoyed one

“

I’m 84 and I grew up in the best of times; I had my career during the best of times; and I have nothing but happy memories of my time as principal at Conover Road School.”

another’s company, and the kids were always our main focus. We truly were one big family.” She added, “I’m 84 and I grew up in the best of times; I had my career during the best of times; and I have nothing but happy memories of my time as principal at Conover Road School.” The birthday celebration for Conover Road School will bring back wonderful memories. “This will be an opportunity to reminisce with others whom we haven’t seen in a long time. There will probably be a lot of ‘do you remember when?’ during the evening,” said Mrs. Anderson. “Those of us who began working at the school 50 years ago have strong sentiment about the building.” She shared that she sometimes goes to lunch with her former students. “It’s so nice to see my little kids all grown up! I do miss them all terribly!”

Event open to former & Current Employees

Event Open to the Public

On March 8, former and current employees of Conover Road Elementary School will celebrate the school’s 50th Birthday with a buffet dinner at the Colts Neck Inn. Carolyn Yosaitis, a former teacher at the school, is chairing the event. Shirley Anderson, the first principal of the school emphasized, “We are organizing a private reunion for the faculty and staff who worked at Conover from its opening to today. That includes custodians, substitute teachers, staff, and faculty. This event is not being funded by the Board of Education. Each person who attends is paying his or her own way.”

On March 9, the second event of the weekend will be an Open House held by the Board of Education. This event is open to the public.

The event details are as follows: Friday, March 8, 2019 from 6:00 to 10:00 pm at the Colts Neck Inn. Cost is $55 per person. A buffet dinner will be served and there will be a cash bar. Checks should be made payable to Carolyn Yosaitis and mailed to 19365 Cypress Ridge Drive, Unit#1101, Lansdowne, Virginia 20176. Checks must be received by February 11. Carolyn’s contact information is cyosaitis@aol.com or 703-723-3213.

Tours of the school will be held during the event which runs from 11:00 am through 2:00 pm This is completely separate from the private celebration being held at the Colts Neck Inn on March 8.

Photo taken of Conover Road School in early 1990's.

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Pete Hegseth Fighting the War for American Values

By Cathy Padilla

Valentine’s Day has traditionally been set aside to celebrate romantic love, or puppy love, or the love we have for our friends and families. But each year the week of February 14 is also a time to show love through appreciation to a special group of men and women, the more than 98,000 Veterans of the U.S. armed services who are cared for every day in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers, outpatient clinics, domiciliaries, and nursing homes. To celebrate the National Salute, we caught up with one of our most recognizable veterans living in Monmouth County - Pete Hegseth.

Photo Credit: Fox News continued on next page

H

e’s a patriotic guy, going as far as having the words “We the People” tattooed on his arm. But his patriotism goes beyond ink and crosses into action and sacrifice. Pete Hegseth not only wore the uniform, he holds two Bronze Stars and a Combat Infantryman Badge for his time in Iraq and Afghanistan.

A co-host on FOX & Friends Weekend and now a contributor on FOX Nation, Hegseth hosted the special Ace of Spades: The Hunt for Saddam Hussein. A former guest military analyst for CNN, MSNBC, and the FOX News Channel, Hegseth has written editorials in The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, New York Post, and The Washington Times. He’s run for Senate in his home state of Minnesota, worked for Veterans advocacy groups, and has authored the book In the Arena. In 2013, Hegseth completed his Master in Public Policy from the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University, and his career has taken him to the pinnacle of interviewing the President of our country.

Having graduated Princeton, and now living in Monmouth County, Hegseth has made the Garden State home where he and his significant other, Jen, are raising their children.

Here’s our exclusive interview with an American hero, Pete Hegseth.

CM: Was there something in your childhood that prompted you to join the military?

Hegseth: I grew up in Minnesota in a very patriotic community filled with family, faith, love of country, and basic decency. We used to go back to my parents’ hometown in southern Minnesota, Wanamingo, often for the Memorial Day parade. It is a very small town, so the parade was very short, but it was always meaningful. We would stand on the side of the wide boulevard, the big main street in Wanamingo, and the veterans of every generation would walk down that street. I remember rising to my feet with the whole community, saluting, clapping, thumbs up. It wasn’t Veterans Day, but the reverence, the respect, that community showed to that handful of men who had fought in World War II and the Korean War and Vietnam, it impacted me.

I felt like someday I would serve, someday I would give back to this country. I wanted to be willing to defend and fight for the freedoms

44

Hegseth in Samarra, Iraq 2006

that we cherish. I didn’t really come from a military family. Both my grandfathers were in World War II, but mostly post conflict.

That’s why I’m such a believer in civic rituals.

I’m a believer in ceremonies, and parades, and pledges, because sometimes those small things reinforce our inner-prompting to want to serve.

CM: How did you come to choose Princeton, here in N.J., as your choice for college?

Hegseth: One word: basketball. My dad was a basketball coach. I grew up obsessively playing basketball as a child and teenager. I wanted to play college basketball, it was always a goal of mine. It was between going to West Point or Princeton. I did want to serve, but it turns out Princeton had a better basketball team. While I wasn’t a highly touted recruit, they did hope I would come. Princeton had ROTC, so I realized I could play on a big-time basketball team and get a chance to serve. It was a good school, and I knew that, but coming from a small town in Minnesota, I had no understanding of the Ivy League and I didn’t know anything about New Jersey. But it turned out to be a wonderful four years.

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE CommunityMagazineNJ.com

CM: Was this area (NJ) a major transition for you from life in Minnesota? Or did you find them similar?

Hegseth: It was a major transition. In fact, it’s one of the things I want to change about how I parent my kids. I love everything about how I was raised. I’m grateful for my parents, and my community, my coaches, my teachers, my pastor – the things like that. But, I was utterly unprepared for that transition (from high school to college). Almost comically so – emotionally unprepared. To be away from home, to be on my own, to not be near my girlfriend – and as a result it was a really difficult transition. It had nothing to do with Princeton, or the community, it was a wonderful place and I met the best of friends, but I think I was in a bit of a cocoon and when that cocoon burst, it took me a while to get my footing. But I did, ultimately. Princeton was a very different place, with a very different set of priorities than where I came from and that’s why I got involved with The Princeton Tory, which is the conservative magazine at the college. I became the publisher. It was a big part of the cultural and political debates on campus at that time, of course that was right after 9/11.

There was a lot going on.

But I’ve learned a lot about human nature, a lot about what you can actually accomplish in war CM: Did you get involved with the military through ROTC? Hegseth: I was ROTC at Princeton. I actually joined the spring before 9/11 and then 9/11 was the ultimate validator of the decision to serve. Balancing school, service, summer training, basketball, and The Princeton Tory publication was an exercise in multitasking.

The leadership, organizational management, and the toughness that ROTC and the military taught me is one of the most valuable lessons I’ll ever learn. The military officers at ROTC, they were great and they prepared us as well as we could be prepared.

CM: As an infantry officer you were sent to Cuba, did you serve at Guantanamo?

Hegseth: When I graduated Princeton I went to Fort Benning. In fact, I believe it was two days after I graduated. So I graduated college I think on June 3rd, and I believe it was on June 5th I was boots on the ground at Fort Benning for four months of Infantry Officer Basic Training. When I got back from Fort Benning I started my job at Bear Stearns, which is the job I got when I was a senior at Princeton. Just a couple of months into the job I got a call at my desk from my commander

saying I was being ordered into active duty and deployment to Guantanamo Bay. Oh and then I got married that February. So I was newly married, just out of college, new job – now out of nowhere, headed to Guantanamo Bay to guard detainees for a year. It was a long year. An important mission, but a long year.

CM: You volunteered to serve in the war zones of Baghdad and Samarra, what led you to that decision?

Hegseth: I’ve written about it a little bit in my book, In The Arena. I came back from Guantanamo Bay, took a brief break, then went back to work at Bear Stearns. I’ll never forget this series of events. I was reading about a suicide bomber in Iraq, the Iraq war was really heating up, and the suicide bomber had killed a bunch of women and children and civilians. I was watching the war coverage and the war was dragging on and not getting better. And I remember just sitting there at my banking desk thinking that I needed to be a part of this. Like I was going to regret it if I didn’t contribute, so I started emailing people I knew were on active duty. One was Captain Dan Hart, he had been my platoon trainer at infantry school, so he had trained me. I emailed him saying by any chance did he need a platoon leader? Turns out he did. But I had to get to the unit within eight weeks to join them and go. And that’s when it started a flurry of bureaucratic maneuvering, if you will, trying to get out of the National Guard unit and transferred specifically to a specific unit deploying to Iraq.

We were in Iraq, in Baghdad, for the latter part of 2005 and then in Samarra through the first half of 2006 and that’s when – some folks will remember the Mosque bombing that triggered a lot of the sectarian violence when al-Qaeda blew up the Mosque in February in Samarra. I woke up to that explosion and then that night meeting the city leaders. I was both a platoon leader and a civil military operations officer. Basically I was our unit’s liaison between the local government and tribal leaders. And that turned into a big, strong relationship that led to a lot of intelligence and dismantling, at least in the near term of the insurgency in Samarra.

CM: You received several medals and honors while stationed in Iraq and Afghanistan. Can you share why you won the medals?

Hegseth: Probably the one that I’m most proud of I can share, it’s hanging on my wall as the first award I ever got in combat, an Army Commendation Medal. I was the first lieutenant. The mission was at midnight on

December 9th, 2005 and the award was for exceptional performance as a platoon leader.

It was an air assault raid that led to the capture of two high value targets with ties to al-Qaeda in Iraq and effectively marked the end of an insurgency, etc. So it was the first night air assault combat mission. As a platoon leader you don’t really earn the trust of your men until you show them in the field. And I feel like the Army Commendation medal did that. A lot of guys have Army Commendation Medals, it’s not like a silver star or anything like that. But to me it was validation I could do the job that I was there to do, fight alongside my men.

CM: What can you share about your time in Iraq and Afghanistan?

Hegseth: Yeah. You know, especially in Iraq, you see sheer humanity. Everything is stripped down to a basic level - human needs, desires, clans, tribes, fighting for your brothers, showing courage, managing fear. All of those things are real. You’re driving down a street that you know is controlled by al-Qaeda, you’re in a Humvee, and you’re blaring nasty messages because you’re trying to provoke them.

You’re sort of thinking, OK when’s the RPG going to hit? Ya know. There are moments like that you certainly remember forever. But I’ve learned a lot about human nature, a lot about what you can actually accomplish in war, and how it should be conducted if we want to win.

Hegseth (left) at Guantanamo

A true love for our country and great appreciation for our country. Love of the other men and women who are willing to put their lives on the line and give up everything because they believe in the freedoms that we have.

You start to viscerally respect and understand and appreciate those freedoms. And when you come home you feel empty. You feel it. And it all feels frivolous, and not meaningful, and that is a big thing you have to overcome when you transition back home…finding that sense of purpose and meaning in a world where we’re told to care about a lot of meaningless stuff. It’s actually a real challenge.

CommunityMagazineNJ.com FEBRUARY 2019

45

have influence and impact other than being a member of Congress or running for office. So if that were to be a calling, someday maybe, but I’m happily not even thinking about or calculating or speculating about when or how or where. I gave up that mindset a long time ago.

CM: You now live in the hills of Holmdel.

What are your impressions of Monmouth County?

Hegseth: I love Monmouth County. It reminds me - it’s different and it has different impulses because it’s more the culture of New York but the goodness and the decency is there just like I’m used to in Minnesota. So Monmouth County is a great place and Holmdel is a great place. And we’re excited to be here.

CM: I’m told you chose your daughter’s preschool because the American flag was displayed outside. It that a true story?

So I learned radical Islam is a huge threat to humanity and our future. I also learned that there are a lot of good Muslims, and I helped some of them come to this country, so you can believe both at the same time. And you can also believe that America is a force for good but also that America, what we can actually accomplish, it’s more limited than we think.

You can’t remake a whole country or society.

In Afghanistan, it was like biblical times with AK-47s and cellphones, and we were in the most modern place of all in Kabul. My job was to instruct units coming in about the geopolitical… I was an instructor…American units, International, NATO units, Afghan units would come through and my job, which is supposed to be for a colonel but they gave it to me as a captain, I was in there talking to them about counterinsurgency strategy and the application in different parts of the country. So I got to learn a lot about what we were doing, whether it was good work or not, and quickly came to the belief that what we are attempting to do there is never going to happen. And that’s why, even though I went there saying we had to win, that we have to do this right, and going there after 9/11 was important – I think we need to recalibrate what we can accomplish in the long term.

CM: So where does your desire to be involved in broadcasting come from? Did you study journalism at Princeton?

Hegseth: I did not study journalism. I studied politics. My senior thesis was about presidential speechmaking. I’ve always had a thing for rhetoric. What rhetoric works and why.

I never had the thought of being on TV. My first appearance was on Hardball with Chris Matthews (on MSNBC) getting yelled at and cut off like fifty times. I got advice from my

buddy, he said lean forward in your chair and don’t let him cut you off. Well I did lean forward, but he cut me off the whole segment.

I was totally thrown into the fire from day one.

I learned how to handle it, but I always come at television from the perspective of being an advocate. I only do it because I believe in it. I have no desire to be a broadcaster for broadcasting’s sake. I have no desire for my mug to be on TV for the sake of it. I got to be on TV because I was fighting for things that I believed in and then that moved into broader commentary as I think folks recognized that it wasn’t just the military or national security or foreign policy or vets that I could talk about.

That I had run for office myself, that I had a background in politics and I’ve been involved in advocacy and I knew people on Capitol Hill, I’d been a part of national PACs and running ads and strategizing with candidates and helping candidates win and things like that.

So as more of that was made known, I got a chance to comment on a wider set of issues.

That just kind of was what it was for many years. Then FOX & Friends one day asked if I’d ever thought about trying to host. And they gave me a shot. But I think if I was ever asked to just do straight news, or whatever, then I wouldn’t be on TV. But FOX & Friends gives me a chance to be a part of shaping the opinion and the debates of the day. And for that I’m grateful. Obviously, I still have a heart toward all the military national security stuff that I’ve talked about for a long time.

CM: You have a Master’s in Public Policy from Harvard, is a political career your ultimate goal?

Hegseth: No, I think at one point maybe I thought it was. But then you go through and you realize there’s a lot of other ways to

Hegseth: It is my significant other’s daughter Kenzie, and it’s Home Away from Home Academy. I don’t know that it’s because there were flags but we did check and they say prayers before their meals, they say the pledge every day, they are very proud and patriotic.

And that is a prerequisite for me. We live in an era where they feel it’s okay to not reinforce patriotic and traditional American values.

And they don’t have to emphasize civics and history. So when I’m looking at the kinds of places I want my kids, kids under my stead, to go, you better believe that’s what I’m looking for and Home Away from Home is wonderful and they do a great job. So we’ve got two there, Gwen will go there eventually I’m sure, and then we’re closely watching the Holmdel public schools. I think like any parent you have to pay attention to what’s in the curriculum because even the best schools have some of the PC notion that we’ve seen move into education especially in the 21st century. So we’ll be watching.

The Department of Veterans Affairs invites individuals, veterans groups, military personnel, civic organizations, businesses, schools, local media, celebrities and sports stars to participate in a variety of activities at the VA medical centers.

The activities and events include special ward visits and valentine distributions; photo opportunities; school essay contests; special recreation activities and Veteran recognition programs. For more information, visit www.volunteer.va.gov/ NationalSaluteVeteranPatients.asp

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Come Visit Us at Our New Location at 340 Route 34, Suite 112 in Colts Neck!

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Serving Staten Island, Brooklyn, and New Jersey

Licensed in NY & NJ Broker/Owner

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Holmdel | $1,150,000

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5 Bedrooms, 3 Full & 2 Half Baths

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Welcome to the ultimate Colts Neck Estate that is located in one of the most sought-after areas. Enjoy the sense of serenity & privacy in the four-season solarium that overlooks the expansive patio with salt water pool, hot tub, and cabana along with stunning views of the 6-acre paddock with run in sheds.

Majestic Custom Colonial located in the heart of beautiful Holmdel in the highly sought after Vineyard! Sits on over 1 acre, finished lower level, plenty of storage and 4 car garage. Come tour this beauty, which will please the most discriminating buyer.

This magnificent custom colonial home will capture your heart! This home features a spectacular detached bonus entertainment room/In-law suite, via a beautiful breezeway, which includes private bath, ample sets of French sliders leading to outdoor balcony and 4+ car garage with a custom car lift - a car collectors dream!

Sitting on .92 acres and located in the Clover Hill section surrounded by larger homes. Large family room with wood burning fireplace that opens with French doors to the sunroom. Large deck outside with awning. Newer septic system with two 1500-gallon tanks replaced in 2000. This home is being sold AS-IS. Hurry this one will not last!

FOR SALE

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Freehold | $379,000

Manalapan | $579,000

Freehold | $509,900

Hazlet | $429,000

4 Bedrooms, 3 Full & 1 Half Baths

4 Bedrooms, 2 Full & 1 Half Baths

4 Bedrooms, 2 Full Baths

4 Bedrooms, 2 Full Baths

Spacious center hall colonial sitting on almost an acre. Up grades include: newer windows, newer central air, furnace, HWH, solid modern interior doors, high end hydrostatic sump pump, water filtration system and more. Huge backyard for summer entertaining.

Motivated Seller! Homeowner can accommodate a spring closing.

Colonial sits on 1.8 wooded acres.

There is a beautiful landscaped fenced yard, Inground pool with outdoor shower/changing room.

Beautifully remodeled home with brand new everything. Sliders that lead you to your resort-like backyard! Custom landscaping, pavers, and Grecian in-ground pool with new liner, filter and cover. Home has its own detached ''mancave'' or ''she-shed''!

Priced to sell! Completely renovated, everything brand new!

Welcome to this beautiful High ranch in Freehold. Walking distance to town for restaurants, shopping, and easy commute via train to NYC. Large fenced in yard.

Elaine Kong

Licensed Real Estate Associate NJ Realtors® Cir. of Excellence Winner 2016-2017 732.241.7509

Debra Annunziata

Licensed Sales Associate Cert/Lic Appraiser 2014 Award Winner NJ Realtors® Cir. of Excellence 2015 - 2017 Award Winner Bronze 718.757.9979

Janice Rizzo

Licensed Sales Associate 2014 Chairman's Award NJ Realtors® Cir. of Excellence 2016 & 2017 Award Winner Bronze 732.757.7949

Connie DeMaio

Licensed Sales Associate NJ REALTORS® Cir. of Excellence Award 2017 Award Winner - Silver 631.747.7048

Lillian LoRusso

Diane Mitchell

Nancy Galatro

Licensed Licensed Licensed Sales Associate Sales Associate Sales Associate Elite Presidents 2008-2016 Resident of Holmdel Resident of Colts Neck NJ Realtors® Cir. of for 20 years 732.859.5997 Excellence Sales Award 908.489.1005 2013, 2016-2017-Bronze CommunityMagazineNJ.com FEBRUARY 2019 47 917.975.5212

You want the best for your child.

What’s not to LOVE about

Valentine’s Day!

Who needs a holiday to celebrate an emotion we should express every day for the important significant person(s) in our life? It should be one of the top priorities of the day to share your love and sentiment with those closest to your heart!

Help them to aim high and reach further.

Ranney’s Maymester offers our Upper School students a chance to engage in unique experiential immersion programs— from travel to Iceland to explore STEAM or a theatre experience in London’s West End to designing a golf course leveraging advanced mathematics and professional internships.

Learn more at a School Day Open House:

Feb 13 at 9 a.m.

ranneyschool.org/visitus

Perhaps in a perfect world, there are few that have made such wonderful expression a daily ritual. But for those of us who seem to get caught up in the day-to-day functions of life, allowing that feeling or expression slip through the day without mention, let’s take a moment of gratitude for Valentine’s Day! Letting the one you love should not require a holiday, but it’s nice to know that every February 14th we get a chance to express our love. How cool is a holiday set aside solely for the soulmate who completes you - your Valentine, if you will.

This year, celebrate this Valentine’s Day with the ultimate symbol or should we say symbols of love with the Forevermark Diamond Tribute Collection. A new collection featuring elegant designs with multiple Forevermark diamonds. Perfect for symbolizing your own distinct traits of the woman you adore.

Begin your collection with stackable rings or dazzle her with the top trend of layering diamonds with necklaces or earrings. Every look showing a rare and beautiful Forevermark diamond for each unique quality she has.

Forevermark Tribute Collection Gift Guide

1

Diamond Hoops

2 3

Tribute Studs

Collection Necklaces

Ranney School

Lead / Create / Contribute 48

Independent Education for Age 3 - Grade 12 Tinton Falls, NJ

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4

Stackable Fashion Rings

For more information about the diamond jewelry buying event and to book an appointment, call 732.256.4410 or visit J. Vincent Jewelers at 420 Route 34 in Colts Neck. www.jvincent.com � 732.256.4410 | � info@jvincent.com | � jvincent.com

Your Exclusive Connection NJ REALTORS® Circle of Excellence Sales Award ® 2015 & 2016 - Silver

Motivated buyers are always looking, no matterSRES the® time Gloria Zimmerman, SRS ® of year.

Broker Associate Letext.191 me | help you!cell 732.946.3200 908.227.7379 gzimmerman@glorianilson.com | GloriaZimmerman.com

Holmdel Regional Office | 963 Holmdel Road, Holmdel Gloria Zimmerman Office: 732.946.3200 | www.glorianilson.com

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Holmdel Regional Office 963 Holmdel Road, Holmdel Holmdel Regional Office | 963 Holmdel Road, Holmdel 732.946.3200 Office: 732.946.3200Office: | www.glorianilson.com GloriaNilson.comFEBRUARY 2019 CommunityMagazineNJ.com

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Winter is Here - Where to Go!

By Hope Daniels

It’s just about that time in winter when you have absolutely nothing more to talk about with your family. Your husband’s jokes are no longer funny, you’re tired of listening to the in-laws complain about their couch sores from binge watching, and you’re on the verge of giving a consequence to the next kid who asks you to read, sing, or play with them. You are even annoyed with the amount of times you tell yourself you are no longer eating carbs after placing a pizza and garlic knots order. In other words, the family has cabin fever and you all need a fun escape. Desperately! Check out some Monmouth County excursions that will get the gang moving, laughing, and enjoying each other’s company once again.

Gravity Vault It’s time to put your foot down and order your couch potato cadets to reach for the sky instead of the chips. Get the family in tip top shape by heading over to an indoor rock gym. Rock climbing is a great sport for beginners and thrill seekers. From learning the ropes to scaling the walls, it’s a great workout and time for all.

37 Kanes Lane, Middletown | GravityVault.com

Snapology Have you ever met a child or adult who doesn’t like Legos? Me neither. Snapology of Monmouth County provides junior scientists with an open play space and lab to expand their knowledge in STEAM programs, Robotics and Video Game Design with the help of Legos. Children can take a private class or be accompanied by an adult in its public Discovery Center where they can bond, brainstorm and build.

980 Shrewsbury Avenue, Tinton Falls | Snapology.com

Trap Door Escape Room Escape rooms are all the rage for birthday parties, teamwork events, date nights and NOW a cure for winter blues. The goal of the space is to solve clues and challenging puzzles as a group. There are a variety of storylines and rooms that can be explored keeping the family out of the house for hours.

60 White Street, Red Bank | TrapDoorEscape.com

Painting With A Twist Need a chance to express yourself? Display your creative eye on canvas. Whether you want to have a fun night out or share a new experience with your family, schedule a painting date to show off “hue” you really are.

2145 NJ-35, Holmdel | PaintingWthATwist.com

The Melting Pot Turn your family into a bunch of experienced foodies for the day. Whether you are a meat and potatoes type or a fancy fondue sampler, enjoy selecting and cooking your own apps and entrees. The kids will love the chance to play chef for brunch, lunch or dinner.

2 Bridge Avenue, Red Bank | MeltingPot.com/red-bank-nj/

TopGolf It’s a bit of a hike but well worth it! Each venue features fun and competitive golf games for all ages, climate-controlled playing bays for year-round comfort, an impressive food and drink menu, private spaces for groups of any size, HDTVs, and a music selection that will make every visit feel like a party.

1013 U.S. Route 1, Edison | TopGolf.com/us

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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE CommunityMagazineNJ.com

GIVE THE GIFT OF EXPERIENCE A gift card for the craft beer lover

An outing with friends to try something new

More than 15 different styles of craft beer brewed fresh on premises. Stop in for a tasting or grab some beer to go!

Craft Beer ◉ Gift Cards ◉ Apparel ◉ Hats ◉ Glassware

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Elizabeth (Liz) Dritsas Realtor Associate

cell: 732.567.1610 Elizabeth.dritsas@sothebysrealty.com

Visit LizDritsas.com Today!

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20 Chestnut Drive, Colts Neck | $699,000

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27 W Larchmont Drive, Colts Neck | $527,000

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

CommunityMagazineNJ.com FEBRUARY 2019

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MuckleyEye Spirits Bring Cheers!

Story LiliAnn Paras Exuberant congratulations and toasts to good health rang throughout the new Colts Neck StillHouse at its official grand opening on January 16, with live bagpipe music greeting each visitor. Colts Neck resident, Geoff Karch, is the founder of this warm and welcoming local craft distillery located at 304 Route 34 South in Colts Neck. County and local officials, business owners, friends, and family gathered to welcome only the second distillery to begin in Colts Neck - the first being Laird’s, host to President George Washington!

Under the new MuckleyEye label, visitors enjoy bourbon, rye, gin, rum and vodka straight up or in the imaginative drink recipes created there. Why “MuckleyEye?” Geoff explained to the crowd, “My grandfather, George Karch Sr. used to exclaim in a hearty booming voice ‘Holy Muckleyeye’ at moments of exclamation, pride and enthusiasm. It’s an expression that has been inside me all these years and how appropriate that it comes out now in this way, with this venture.”

And what a venture it is. Geoff left a long career in advertising and is one of the rare people who embraced his vision and brought it to fruition. “It’s been a long, crazy road to get to this point,” noted Geoff in his opening remarks.

He graciously acknowledged that this was not

Left to right: Monmouth County Sherff Shaun Golden, Monmouth County Clerk Christine Hanlon, Freeholder Director Tom Arnone, Colts Neck Committeeman Frank Rizzuto, Freeholder Lillian Burry, Freeholder Gerry P. Scharfenberger, Ph.D, Maryann Karch, Geoff Karch, Colts Neck Committeeman Michael Viola, and Colts Neck Business Association President Glen Dalakian.

a solo effort, and had a lot of people to thank.

He joked, “Let’s start with my wife, Maryann, who, let’s just say wasn’t convinced of my idea – putting up with me throughout this process was stressful – still is.” He continued, “I owe a deep gratitude to my mother – and a couple of bucks.” He also thanked other family members, partners, investors, his staff and patrons.

The Stillhouse was also on the receiving end of some gratitude. At the ribbon cutting, Geoff was presented with a proclamation from the Monmouth County Freeholders. They expressed their full support for the Stillhouse and mentioned especially their appreciation that Geoff will be using locally sourced products in the distilling processes. The Colts Neck Township Committee similarly expressed how pleased it is to welcome this exciting new business to the town.

CM joins in wishing all good things to the StillHouse and we are confident these closing words by Geoff will prove prophetic: “We’ve put together a team that will propel this distillery to one of the premiere distilleries on the east coast.”

Be sure to put The Colts Neck StillHouse on your list of places to go. It is a great place to enjoy a tour, tastings, private events, drinks by the outdoor firepits, and to purchase bottles for home or for gifts. Food is not sold there, but there are often food trucks on premises and guests may bring their own food, but please contact the distillery to find out the details.

Learn more about Geoff in CM’s previous article, Move Over Kentucky, MuckleyEye Spirits Are Here and by visiting coltsneckstillhouse.com or its Facebook page.

Newcomers & Neighbors Club to Celebrate Valentine’s Day

Left to right: Activity leaders Clare Goscienski, Lynn Klappholz, Helene Kalkay, Lois LaSalle, Denise Denk, Linda Kudler, Dorene Elmquist, Agnes Duffy, Cindy Rose and Sue Quincannon were honored at the Newcomers and Neighbors meeting on January 10th.

On January 10, The Newcomers and Neighbors Club of Colts Neck, Holmdel and surrounding areas, held its first meeting of the new year. President Dee Mollema honored and awarded gifts to the leaders of all the club’s activity groups, thanking them for all the hard

52

work they do. The meeting was held at Colts Neck Firehouse #2 and featured Lisa Laird from the historic Laird Applejack Distillery in Colts Neck. Members and guests enjoyed a social hour with refreshments and then were treated to the amazing story of the creation of

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE CommunityMagazineNJ.com

the very first distillery in the US. Lisa recounted many other tidbits about the Colts Neck Inn, horse racing and the role of her family in the Revolution! Rumor has it that the only person (besides the Laird family) that ever had the recipe for Laird’s Applejack was George Washington!

The Club’s next meeting will be held on February 14 at Colts Neck Firehouse #2 at 9:30 am. The members and guests will celebrate Valentine’s Day with prizes, special treats and games.

You are invited to attend a general meeting as a guest of the club. New and long-time residents are all welcome. For more information on the Club or to join, call 732.577.0875 or 732.309.1602.

Specializing in the Elegant Country Home Sweetheart deals in real estate don’t happen by chance.

Call us for details.

No one knows Colts Neck better.

179 R oute 5 37 • Colt s Neck Li l l ia n G Bu r r y, Broker O f f ice: 7 32. 462.6888 cltn rea lty@aol.com

OU R E X PE RT ISE IS OU R SIGNAT U R E

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More than 85 years of dedication, passion, integrity and professionalism.

Areas of Practice: Bankruptcy Civil Litigation Commercial Litigation Commercial Real Estate Community Association Law Construction Defect Creditors’ Rights Criminal Defense

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DUI Employment Law Finance & Banking Intellectual Property Land Use & Zoning Matrimonial & Family Medical Malpractice Mortgage Banking

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A commitment to excellence. A commitment to people.

Ocean, NJ 732.922.1000

Princeton, NJ 609.751.5551

Woodland Park, NJ 973.247.9000

Newtown, Pa. 267.757.8792

www.ansellgrimm.com White Plains, NY 800.569.3886

CommunityMagazineNJ.com FEBRUARY 2019

53

DI VORCE TA LK

BY PET ER C . PA R A S , ESQ.

The Appeal of Appeals PEOPLE OFTEN THINK that if they are dissatisfied with a family court judge’s ruling they will just take an appeal and everything will be straightened out quickly and inexpensively. But is that really the case? Are appeals really that appealing?

In order to appeal a judge’s ruling, the order must be a final order. If there are any unresolved issues, e.g., issues that are reserved pending some future occurrence, a right to appeal does not exist. This is to prevent piece meal presentations to the Appellate Division. Only when a case is fully adjudicated in the trial court is there a right to appeal any or all aspects of the order.

An appeal begins by filing a Notice of Appeal, a Transcript Request, and other documents, paying a filing fee, and paying a deposit for the transcript. Transcripts can cost hundreds or even many thousands of dollars, depending on the length of the family court proceeding.

Peter C. Paras

is a shareholder in the Family Law Firm of Paras, Apy & Reiss, P.C.

Once those documents are filed and the transcript is received (this can take several weeks), the lawyer must file a brief setting forth the factual and legal reasons the appellant thinks the judge was wrong.

This often requires much legal research and many drafts before the brief is ready to be filed. The other party then has the right to file a brief in opposition, setting forth the factual and legal basis for his position.

The appellant is then allowed to file a reply brief. This process can take six months or more.

Once the briefs are filed, the court will schedule oral argument, usually several months later, in one of many possible venues throughout the state. At oral argument the attorneys try to highlight the strengths of their cases, but are often interrupted by questions from the judges (either two or three depending on the complexity of the case) to which they must respond without hesitation.

Selected as "Super Lawyer"

by NJ Monthly 2006 - 2019.

Included in Best Lawyers in America 2015 - 2019.

At the conclusion of oral argument, the presiding judge will usually thank the lawyers for their presentations and close by saying the panel will take the matter under advisement. And then… you wait for the court’s written decision. They can vary greatly in length (again, the complexity of the case will dictate the length) and may take several days, or even several months, to receive.

Appellate decisions generally fall into three categories or a combination of them.

The court can affirm the trial judge, i.e., the trial judge was correct. It can reverse, which means he was wrong. Or it can remand, sending it back to the trial court for further proceedings.

This process is time consuming, time intensive, and expensive. And we haven’t even discussed going to the Supreme Court. So, is an appeal the answer? Is it really that appealing? Are there alternatives? That’s next month’s article!

For more information please see the firm’s website at www.par-law.com.

The information in this article is not intended as legal advice. For legal advice you should consult your attorney.

Celebrating 22 Years of Professionalism *Named by peer selection to the 2017 - 2019 list of “Best Law Firms” in U.S.News-Best Lawyers, family law, Metro Tier 2.

Bonnie M.S. Reiss

Selected as “Super Lawyer” by NJ Monthly 2006 - 2019

Peter C. Paras

Selected as “Super Lawyer” by NJ Monthly 2006 - 2019 Included in Best Lawyers in America 2015 - 2019

Patricia E. Apy 2015 ABA Grassroots Advocacy Award recipient

Michael J. Fleres Elissa A. Perkins

A Professional Corporation For The Practice of Family Law 2 Bridge Avenue • The Galleria • Suite 601 • Red Bank, NJ 07701 • Tel: 732.219.9000 • Fax: 732.219.9020 • par-law.com

BESPOKE Service Without Compromise

Laurie Friedman Broker Associate

CRS, ABR, GRI, SFR Cell Phone: 732-310-1227

Laurie.Friedman@longandfoster.com NJAR® Circle of Excellence Sales Award® 1998, 1999, 2002 & 2004 (BRONZE) Quarter Century Club

COLTS NECK OFFICE 174 Route 537 Colts Neck, NJ 07722 Office: 732.252.2460

Ranka Vucetic Realtor Associate

Cell Phone: 732-610-7010 Ranka@comcast.net

NJAR® Circle of Excellence Sales Award® 2000 (GOLD), 2001 (SILVER), 2003-2005, 2011-2012, 2014, 2016-2017 (BRONZE)

FAIR HAVEN OFFICE 623 River Road Fair Haven, NJ 07704 Office: 732.530.6300

Congratulations to our 2016 NJ REALTORS ® Circle of Excellence Winners! www.kilbrideandcagnina.com

Fresh Farmers and Makers Market

WEDNESDAYS IN FEBRUARY 1:00- 6:00 PM Bell Works, Holmdel Shop weekly from over 30 local farmers, food purveyors, local artisans and more. Lots of family activities, food & craft demos, live music, libations and more. This event is FREE and open to the public. Visit bellworksfresh.com

The 22nd Annual Orchid Show

FEBRUARY 7 THROUGH FEBRUARY 10 Dearborn Market, Holmdel Orchid Societies as well as other local and commercial growers will be presenting landscaped exhibits that are sure to delight all who attend. During the show on Saturday, February 9th, - they will hold the annual evening benefit for The Francis Foundation to raise funds so they can bring happiness to kids fighting cancer. Enjoy wine and cheese, hors d’oevres for this wonderful cause. More info, dearbornmarket.com

Asbury Park’s Songwriters Showcase

FEBRUARY 13 - 7:00 TO 10:00 PM The Saint Asbury Park A showcase of six powerhouse songwriting talents, live at The Saint-- the legendary music venue of the Jersey Shore - Strumberry Pie (7:30 pm), Samantha Louise (8:00 pm), Phil Robinson (8:30 pm), Rory D’Lasnow (9:00 pm), Mike Rocket (9:30 pm), & Deirdre Forrest (10:00 pm)

6th Annual Vacation Expo

FEBRUARY 23 FROM 11:00 TO 3:00 P.M. Hosted by Excel Travel, NJ 101.5 & Dearborn Market Bringing you a wide range of trusted travel operators under one roof. The fun, casual informative, free event will be held in the award-winning Dearborn Market’s state-of-the-art greenhouse, visit njvacationexpo.com for more info.

10th Anniversary Hometown Heroes Gala and Awards Show

FEBRUARY 7 FROM 5:30 TO 9:30 PM Brookdale Community College Performing Arts Center Honoring four amazing heroes in our local community – Carol Stillwell, Mychal Mills, Jackeline Mejias-Fuertes and Rick Brandt.

Special performance by Sugar Hill Gang and Pam McCoy and Familiar Faces. Tickets: $50 Email: info@usahometownheroes. org

THEO

FEBRUARY 23 THROUGH MARCH 24 Two River Theater, Red Bank When a family’s matriarch, Margaret, is forced to acknowledge that her health is deteriorating and that her death is imminent, her son Theodore (Theo) returns to their Catskills home after many years away. For tickets, visit tworivertheater.org.

Highlands Annual Chili Cookoff

3rd Annual Irish Film Festival

FEBRUARY 9 – MIDDLETOWN ARTS CENTER, MIDDLETOWN Shorts/Documentaries at 1:00 pm | Feature Films at 7:00 pm Middletown Arts Center Presented by Claddagh nan Gael, conveniently located adjacent to the Middletown Train Station (NJ Transit - North Jersey Coast Line) with ample parking available. Admission $10, more info at irishfilmfest.org

Donna Beriont social strategist

FEBRUARY 24 FROM 3:00- 7:00 PM Bahrs Landing, Highlands All proceeds to benefit the 2019 St. Patrick’s Day Parade. $30 donation includes: chili tasting, two beer tickets and ballots.

More info at 732.291.4713 or email HBP@highlandsnj.com. Visit highlandsnj.com

WhistlePig Dinner Pairing

FEBRUARY 27TH FROM 6:30 TO 9:30 PM B2 Bistro + Bar Red Bank Presenting 5 courses prepared by Executive Chef Cesare “Chez” DeChellis, paired with a line up from the award winning WhistlePig Whiskey, hosted by Nate Woodruff. B2’s expert bartenders will also be presenting a custom cocktail to accompany the meal. Tickets $125 pp, more info at b2bistro.com.

Donna Beriont | DNB Events

Happy Valentine’s Day to all of you from your social strategist and event consultant! I provide public relations, event consulting and strategy, as well as promotions and partnering for local businesses. Enjoy the local events happening in our area.

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Highlands 6th Annual Guinness Run/Fundraiser

MARCH 10 STARTING AT 2:00 P.M. Registration is $30.00 and includes a commemorative t-shirt, a pint glass and access to the Post-Race Party at Chubby Pickle. There will be a Post-Run Pub Crawl from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., $10 registration and $3 Imported Beer specials at participating restaurants.

Count Basie Events Tickets: thebasie.org

Best of the Eagles FEBRUARY 16 8:00 PM

E. Murray Todd Half Marathon

MARCH 10 AT 8:30 AM Brookdale Community College Forty-two years of racing tradition returns to one of New Jersey’s most attractive courses. Run 13.1 miles on a beautiful course through Lincroft, Holmdel and Colts Neck. Pre-registration is suggested and closes on February 28, 2019. More info, visit MonmouthCountyParks.com.

Legally Blonde FEBRUARY 21 8:00 PM

Women of Distinction & Community Partners Gala

MARCH 22 FROM 6:00 TO 11:00 PM Eagle Oaks Golf and Country Club, Farmingdale Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore will host its annual gala to honor a group of outstanding community role models who inspire girls to become leaders of tomorrow. More info, visit jerseyshoregirlscouts.org.

Cheap Trick FEBRUARY 28 8:00 PM

Garden State Film Festival

MARCH 28 THROUGH MARCH 31 – ASBURY PARK A weekend full of current independent films that you can’t see anywhere else! Weekend passes are $50 in advance, Day Passes are also available - the Saturday Day Pass is $30 and Sunday Day Pass is $20. Tickets are available at gsff.org and at festival box offices.

Made in Monmouth

APRIL 13 AT 10:00 AM TO 4:00 PM Monmouth University, West Long Branch Made In Monmouth is a program for both vendors to create useful new products that the public will want to buy and for visitors to find the best Monmouth made products to enrich their lives. Free to the public. More info at madeinmonmouth.com

SAVE THE DATE - Saint Patty’s Day Parades Belmar/Lake Como St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Keyport’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Rumson St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Highlands St. Patrick’s Day Parade

SUNDAY, MARCH 3

SUNDAY, MARCH 10

Donna Beriont social strategist

SATURDAY, MARCH 23

SATURDAY, MARCH 23

Donna Beriont | DNB Events

Happy Valentine’s Day to all of you from your social strategist and event consultant! I provide public relations, event consulting and strategy, as well as promotions and partnering for local businesses. Enjoy the local events happening in our area.

THE REAL ESTATE LEADERS J U S T LI S TE D

J U S T LI S TE D

J U S T LI S TE D

J U S T LI S TE D

1 Bluebell Road Colts Neck Offered at $3,000,000

222 Kettle Creek Road Toms River Offered at $1,999,000

237 Bay Shore Drive Barnegat Offered at $434,900

1301 Boulevard #4 Seaside Heights Offered at $425,000

Sarah Findel 908-229-3000 Patricia Ronca 732-812-0558

Salvatore Ventre 732-232-6005

Jason Patel 973-919-7011

Robert Seaman 732-963-7905

J U S T LI S TE D

U N D E R CO NTR AC T

U N D E R CO NTR AC T

J U S T S O LD

55 Ocean Avenue, 12D Monmouth Beach Offered at $389,000

108 Monmouth Avenue Naveink Offered at $675,000

5 Jessica Place Monmouth Beach Offered at $1,499,000

6 Josephine Court Hazlet Closed at $357,500

Laura Quinn 732-233-2303

Lindsey Elliot 732-284-1906

Donald Hughes 732-881-1246

Expands Into Holmdel

Middletown Office 113 Tindall Road

Middletown, NJ 07748

732.933.0200

Holmdel Office 670 N Beers Street, Building 1

670 N o r th Be e r s St Suite 130, Holmdel, B ldg #1, SuiNJ te07733 130, 732.812.3700 Ho lmde l , NJ 07733 732- 812- 3700

Each office independently owned and operated.

Brian Walsh 732-778-0600

Colts Neck Office 5 Professional Circle, Suite 101 Colts Neck, NJ 07722

732.933.0200

CBA AWARDS PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARSHIPS TO INCOMING STUDENTS Christian Brothers Academy presented 13 Presidential Scholarships on January 17 to eighth graders who scored exceptionally high on the Academy’s entrance exam.

The Presidential Scholarships are part of CBA’s Scholarship Initiative, making it possible for highly qualified students to attend CBA, regardless of financial background.

It was CBA’s first president, Brother Andrew O’Gara, who made it his mission to make CBA affordable for any qualified student. Brother Andrew’s vision continues on with the Scholarship Initiative, as CBA now awards more than 50 full and partial scholarships to deserving students.

One of the three President’s Scholarships bears Brother Andrew’s name. The second scholarship honors St. John Baptist de La Salle, the founder of the Brothers of the Christian Schools, which has operated CBA since its opening in 1959. The third scholarship, the Founders’ Scholarship, is in memory of the three laymen founders of the Academy: John Henderson, Peter Fleming, and Dr. George Sheehan.

The Academy awards a combined $1.5 million in scholarships and financial aid to its current students.

“I congratulate these young men who have distinguished themselves and received these awards,” President Brother Frank Byrne ’75 said. “The De La Salle Scholarship, Brother Andrew Scholarship, and the Founders’ Scholarship are a great way to recognize the achievements of these incoming freshmen. It is our hope that their academic success continues throughout their time at CBA.” Thirteen of the 20 winners of the Presidential Scholarships were in attendance at a short award ceremony in CBA’s Quinn Library.

The students were invited to bring their parents and their middle school administrators with them to share in the special moment: Jack Butler, Manasquan Elementary; Hunter DelGuercio, Millstone Township Middle

Left to right: CBA Principal Ross Fales, Matthew Herman from Cedar Drive Middle School in Colts Neck, and CBA President Brother Frank Byrne. Photo Credit: Larry Levanti/CBA.

School; Thibaut Fabricant, Oak Hill Academy, Lincroft; Samuel Ferro, St. Jerome, West Long Branch; Daniel Grosso, St. Bartholomew School; Sean Healey, Forrestdale School, Rumson; Matthew Herman, Cedar Drive Middle School, Colts Neck; Stephen Makin, Holy Cross School, Rumson; Ryan Manley, St. Mary, New Monmouth; William Ribon, St. Leo the Great School, Lincroft; Robert Schweikert, Oak Hill Academy, Lincroft; Quinn Walsh, Holy Cross School, Rumson; and John Woolf, St. Aloysius, Jackson During the ceremony, Brother Frank and Principal Ross Fales spoke about the 25 Advanced Placement courses, nearly 50 clubs and activities, and the 18 varsity sport programs currently offered at CBA. They also touched on the focus CBA has on its students’ preparation for college. The Class of 2018 was awarded more than $31.5 million in merit-based, academic scholarships. Not including athletic scholarships or grants, 70 percent of the students were awarded college scholarships.

OAK HILL ACADEMY REPEATS AS TOP SCHOOL AT MATH CONTEST Congratulations to the Oak Hill Academy Math team for winning the St. Joseph (Metuchen, NJ) High School Mathematics Competition that was held on January 12. Mrs. Palamara took a group of eight 7th & 8th graders up to the high school in Metuchen for Oak Hill’s third annual trip to the Middlesex County High School’s competition. The team consisted of eighth graders: Michael Gao (Holmdel), Robert Schweikert (Atlantic Highlands), Thibaut Fabricant (Red Bank), Aaron Lee (Morganville) and Saujun Christie (Toms River) and seventh grader, Daniel Fiskin (Morganville).

After all of the scores were tabulated, the Monmouth County private school, Oak Hill Academy, emerged victorious as the champion amongst all competing schools. Congratulations were also in order on the individual side as Robert Schweikert finished 4th and Michael Gao 5th to anchor the team win. This was the school’s second consecutive team victory, and third in four years, at the Middlesex County High school.

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2 Clinton Court, Holmdel Proudly offered at $620,000

79 Plum Street, Tinton Falls Proudly offered at $324,900

Colts Neck Library Happenings

WE OFFER

• Early (Interceptive) Orthodontics • Orthodontics for Adolescents & Adults • Free Initial Consultation or Second Opinion • Flexible Payment Options

Calm & Go Yoga with Sharon | February 21st at 2:00pm The Clear Alternative to Braces

Voted by his peers “Top Orthodontist” in NJ Monthly, Survey of Dentists

Pleasant Valley Shopping Center 273 Route 34 | Colts Neck, NJ 07722 732.761.9700 | DrYoungOrtho.com

Colts Neck Center for

NJ Spec. Permit #3855

Yoga creates a sense of peace as we move our bodies into a beautiful slow flow sequence leading to a meditation. Join us as Sharon Calder, a registered yoga teacher with the Yoga Alliance, teaches you the ability to gain the union between movement and breath. You will feel inspired and energized, along with a sense of calmness and peace.

Please bring a yoga mat, water bottle, and small towel. Registration is required as each session can only hold 10 participants.

February Special Children’s Events Registration Required | All Ages Welcome Chinese New Year Dragon February 6th at 4:00pm

Make a dragon and hear a story about this holiday

Happy Valentine’s Day February 13th at 4:00pm

Create a pretty valentine for someone you love

Read to Peaches, Our Therapy Dog! February 20th at 4:00pm

Improve your reading skills and make a new friend by reading aloud to our therapy dog. Bring your favorite book or choose one from our shelves.

LEGO® Club | February 27th at 4:00pm

Listen to a LEGO® story and then construct your own creation. Save a memory of it by taking a photo on Mom's or Dad’s smartphone.

The Library will be closed Monday, February 18th for Presidents’ Day. Colts Neck Library is located at 1 Winthrop Drive in Colts Neck and can be reached at 732.431.5656. All programs are free and open to the public. Be sure to “like” Colts Neck Friends of The Library on Facebook to stay up-to-date with the latest.

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Holmdel Library Happenings Are you trying to get through the cold winter months? Come to the library to catch up on some magazines, take your toddler to a story time on either Monday or Thursday, or grab a book to snuggle up with on the long winter nights. We are pleased to offer the following programs to help you survive the season.

Let me help you make the right move.

For the Love of Food Wednesday, February 13 from 7:00 - 8:00pm

In time for Valentine’s Day, discover the ways in which food and love are intertwined. Join us as we explore myths and facts about chocolate, honey, and some historic romantic foods that just might surprise you. Vanessa Young, founder of Thirsty Radish, will discuss the art and science of romantic meals and provide inspiration for creating your own. Vanessa is a writer, recipe developer, poet, and educator focused on the intersection of food and culture.

FOR SALE

200 Farm Bridge Road, Marlboro Presented at $2,999,999

FOR SALE

21 Embry Farm Road, Marlboro Presented at $2,650,00

FOR SALE

10 Bradford Drive, Old Bridge Presented at $339,000

Deer Resistant Gardening Tuesday, March 26 from 2:00 - 3:00pm

Bernard Dickman of the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Monmouth County will give a talk on Deer Resistant Perennials. While no flower is truly deer proof, there are a number of flowers that grow every year that deer avoid. Mr. Dickman will discuss a number of perennials that have grown for a number of years without injury by deer, rabbits, or woodchucks in his Middletown garden. Questions will be welcomed.

Book Club

Book Club continues on Monday nights at 7:15 pm. The book for discussion in February is Mumbai Mornings by P.A. Chawla. The book for discussion in March is On Mystic Lake by Kristin Hannah.

Holmdel Library is located at 101 Crawfords Corner Road, Suite 2110 in Bell Works in Holmdel and can be reached at 732.946.4118. All programs are free and open to the public.

Chaitali “Chai” Amin Realtor Associate Cell - 847.736.3947

HomesByChai@gmail.com

YOUR FULL SERVICE REALTOR! STAGE, SELL, AND BEYOND!

THE REAL ESTATE LEADERS

670 N. Beers Street, Bldg. 1, Suite 130, Holmdel, NJ 07733 Office: 732.812.3700

PLAN YOUR VACATION WITH THE EXPERTS AT THE 6TH ANNUAL VACATION EXPO Stop dreaming and start planning your getaway at the 6th Annual Vacation Expo hosted by Excel Travel, NJ 101.5 and Dearborn Market. Vacation Expo brings you a wide range of trusted travel operators under one roof! The fun, informative, free event will be held in the award-winning Dearborn Market’s state-of-the-art greenhouse on Saturday, February 23, from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm.

The award winning, time-tested Excel Travel - celebrating 25 years in 2019 - has hand-selected more than 30 of its favorite vacation vendors, operators and owners of top-notch travel destinations. These experts will provide first-hand information about your next travel destination. The possibilities are limitless whether you desire an exotic safari, a fun-filled, family cruise, a romantic getaway or simply a resort within a day’s drive, you will find it at Vacation Expo.

No matter what your idea of a dream vacation is you will find it at Vacation Expo. There will be an infinite variety of journeys available with the lowest prices possible (even compared to Expedia, Travelocity, etc.)

At Vacation Expo the only limit to your next adventure will be your imagination. Here is just a sampling of tour representatives who will be present: Beaches and Sandals Resorts - Crystal Cruises – Celtic Tours World Tours – Club Med – Elegant Hotels – Holland America Line - Kick Cancer Overboard - Jamaica Tourist Board - Viking River Cruises - Micato Safaris - Cayman Islands –- AMA Waterways - Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines – MSC Cruises, and many more.

Come and build your dream vacation with the experts. For more information, visit NJVacationExpo.com.

You can gather loads of information from the experts or book a vacation on the spot and save hundreds of dollars! In fact, if you book a trip using Excel Travel, you will get $100 off (or shipboard credit) vacation packages or cruise bookings. Attendees at this year’s event will be able to explore a trip to Asia on land or by sea, or discover a romantic wedding and honeymoon destination on a Caribbean island, or plan a once-in-a-lifetime African safari, or an action-packed, family ski trip to the Rockies, or an over-the-top luxurious river cruise for two, or simply a girls’ indulgent spa week getaway. The options are limitless!

“Official tour company representatives will be present and are excellent resources for ensuring memorable journeys,” says travel expert Ted Friedli, owner of Excel Travel, Long Branch and Founder of Kick Cancer Overboard Foundation providing free cruises to people affected by cancer. “We have personally selected our favorites for this event.”

MONMOUTH COUNTY PARK SYSTEM RELEASES SPRING PARKS & PROGRAMS GUIDE This spring go Wild for Bats, discover Spring Tales and Garden Fun, and set off on a Star Talk and Hike with the Monmouth County Park System. Other upcoming offerings include Hula Hoop Dance and Fitness, Wiggles & Giggles, and Kayak Birding. Check out the spring issue of the Park System’s Parks & Programs Guide for those and other exciting arts & crafts, nature, recreation and sports programs planned for March, April, and May. Copies of the spring issue of the Parks & Programs Guide are available at most county parks and online. Registration starts at 8 a.m. on

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Wednesday, February 6. Registration is available online 24/7; by phone by calling 732.842.4000, ext. 1, Monday-Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm; by mail using the Registration Form found at the back of the Parks & Programs Guide; or in person by visiting Park System Headquarters in Thompson Park, 805 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, Monday-Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.

For more information about the Park System or to receive a copy of the Parks & Programs Guide, please visit www.MonmouthCountyParks.com or call 732.842.4000, ext. 4312.

Thinking of selling your home this spring?

Now is the time to get your home ready for sale!

Please give me a call to help you in developing a home enhancement plan so you can obtain the best price in the shortest period of time.

Alice Houston, CRS Realtor Associate

Cell: (732) 673-6246 alicehouston@monmouth.com www.alicehouston.com

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4 Bdrm 2.5 Colonial w/full basement located in Meadwood Estates

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15 Marion Drive, Holmdel

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Closed 12/20/2018 - $1,899,000

NJ REALTOR® Circle of Excellence Sales Award® 1995-2016

NJ REALTOR® Circle of Excellence Sales Award 1995-2017

GOLD LEVELMove 2004, 2012, 201525 Years!

Helping Families For2014, Over

SILVER LEVEL 1997, 1998, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2016, 2017

Helping Families Buy & Sell Homes for Over 25 years!

2016 Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. If your property is listed with a real estate broker, please disregard.

It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers. We are happy to work with them and cooperate fully. ©

EQUAL HOUSING O P P O RT U N I T Y

© 2016 Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker logo are registered service mark s owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. If your property is listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers. We are happy to work with them and cooperate fully.

SO

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12 Wellington Court, Holmdel Sought after Chardonnay Model with full walk-out basement Cedar Village Adult Community

Closed 7/09/2018 - $525,000

LD

93 Banyan Blvd, Holmdel

Wonderful End Unit Townhouse in The Woods @ Holmdel

Closed 6/06/2018 $448,900

Lee M. Lichtenstein, DMD PA DENTIST & ANESTHESIOLOGIST WHAT SETS US APART? Dr. Lichtenstein is a Dentist Anesthesiologist offering the best level of care, backed by a gentle touch and the understanding that can only come from years of experience working with apprehensive patients.

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• Local Anesthetic Management • Intravenous Antibiotics • Nitrous Oxide (“sweet air”/“laughing gas”)

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CommunityMagazineNJ.com FEBRUARY 2019

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B Monmouth Museum B

Welcomes New Executive Director

THE MONMOUTH MUSEUM announced that its Board of Trustees has unanimously appointed Donna R. Kessinger of Atlantic Highlands to be the Museum’s next Executive Director. Daniel Fenski, Board of Trustees Chairman said, “We are pleased to announce Donna’s appointment. We are impressed with Donna’s leadership experience and skill sets and how well they align with the goals of the Monmouth Museum for its next chapter, and feel her energy and enthusiasm for our mission and community is exactly what we need at this time.”

Kessinger comes to the Museum from ChaShaMa, International Center of Photography, ICP, and MoMA PS1, bringing with her a connection to the artist community that thrives along the New York and New Jersey corridor.

She has a Bachelor of Fine Art from Kent State University, and a Masters in Arts Administration from the University of Kentucky. Donna has produced several independent curatorial projects in New York and New Jersey since 1999 including the Guggenheim Museum and the emerging artists residency programs and related exhibitions at the Bronx Museum of the Arts.

With her experience as a fine arts administrator and educator, an Adjunct Professor at the University of Kentucky teaching the Arts and Artists in Society online courses, and recently the Arts Program Director for the Therapeutic Recreation Division, at Monmouth County Parks and Recreation, she will introduce new engaging educational programs to the Museum for the adult and MMKIDS audience. At Aljira, A Space Center for Contemporary Art, in Newark, NJ she developed the Young Curators Program an educational outreach and youth development initiative with the Newark Public Schools. “I am honored to be selected as the Executive Director of the Monmouth Museum. The museum is a place for families to learn and have fun together, a place for children to dream about a bigger, brighter future,” said Kessinger. The Museum presents thought-provoking rotating exhibitions in the areas of arts, culture, science and history, and nationally renowned talent along with the work of New Jersey artists, providing a destination that is multi-generational.

Her impressive intellectual and artistic credentials pair well in serving

artists for the New Jersey Emerging Artists Series at the Monmouth Museum as well as National and International artists for the various Main Gallery and Juried Art Exhibitions and the daily STEAM, science, art, and history programs offered in both children’s wings of the Museum.

Monmouth Museum is at an important juncture in its 55-year history as it continues as a regional art museum and a center that enriches the lives of children through exploration of science and technology. Kessinger brings the right skills we need to move forward. She will work with the Board of Trustees to create and implement a strategic plan, provide leadership to the museum team, and elevate fundraising efforts including The Next Big Idea fundraising campaign recently kicked off by the Board to ensure the museum is making a lasting impact on children, families, and artists in the years to come.

“Donna’s ten years of experience as an Arts leader in both an educational and curatorial capacity has enabled her to produce public programs that are compelling, inclusive, innovative, and mission-driven.

We are excited to have her join us at the Monmouth Museum,” said Kathy Pojawa, a trustee who led the search.

“I am thrilled to be coming to the Monmouth Museum and look forward to working with the incredible staff, board, and artist and family members to advance the museum, which is a beloved cultural focus for the community and region and which continues to expand its offerings,” said Kessinger.

The Monmouth Museum, founded in 1963 as a Museum of Ideas, is an independent, non-profit organization, entirely supported by individuals, foundation, corporate, county and state grants, income from special events, membership dues, and admissions.

The Museum is located in Lincroft, at 1 Museum Drive, on the campus of Brookdale Community College, parking lot #1. The Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday 10:00 am -5:00 pm, Friday until 9:00 pm and Sunday 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm. Admission is $8. For more information about programs and exhibitions please call 732-747-2266 or visit the website monmouthmuseum.org.

CommunityMagazineNJ.com FEBRUARY 2019

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Mater Dei Prep to Honor Gerry Harper and John Cahill at Seraph Strong Gala

On February 9th, Mater Dei Prep will hold the Seraph Strong Gala at the newly renovated Sheraton Hotel in Eatontown and honor two men who have made lasting contributions to both the school and Monmouth County. The annual Seraph Strong Gala is Mater Dei Prep’s signature event to honor alumni, community leaders, and others who support the high school’s mission of a tradition of excellence in education and commitment to Catholic values.

Gerry Harper One of seven siblings who attended Mater Dei, Gerry was President of the Student Council and a statewide champion in debate and extemporaneous speaking. He graduated as a Henry Rutgers Scholar with honors from Rutgers College, after which he attended N.Y.U. Law School, where he was Editor-in-Chief of its Law Review and received the Benjamin Butler Award for Academic Excellence. Following a clerkship on the U.S. D.C. Circuit Court, he joined Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison, as a trial lawyer and was made a partner in 1986, a position he held until his retirement 30 years later.

Gerry currently chairs the N.Y. State Bar’s Committee on Ethics, having previously chaired a like committee for the N.Y. County Lawyers. By judicial appointment, he served six years on the committee overseeing lawyer discipline. For three years, he was an Adjunct Professor on Ethics at N.Y.U. Law School. From 1987 until 2010, he was general counsel of the N.Y.S. Democratic Party, a Presidential Elector in 1988, and a member of the DNC Rules Committee in 1996, 2000, and 2004.

In the spring of 2015, Gerry was asked to help save Mater Dei Prep. With many others, Gerry made Mater Dei Prep a mission for which, he said, failure was not an option. With these many others, including six-figure pro bono help from his firm, he worked to assure the school’s survival and success. He remains a founding member of the Board of Trustees. Gerry is the proud father of daughters Amanda and Julia.

C E a

John Cahill Having graduated from Georgetown University in 1977 with a degree in government, John earned an MBA from Rutgers in 1980. His professional career spans 40 years in the fixed income market, first as a portfolio manager for the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and later in sales at financial services powerhouses Shearson American Express, Paine Webber, BNP Paribas and Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group. Over the years John recruited and mentored countless individuals in their careers.

John’s first effort to support his alma mater was inspired by loyalty and friendship. In 1994, as a way to honor the memory of his classmate and brother-in-law Mike Lawless, John, with his lifelong friend Mike Corley, set up a golf outing for a few friends to raise money for a scholarship to help Mater Dei students in Lawless’s name. Initially, the outings were grassroots efforts that culminated with a BBQ in the Cahill backyard. Twenty-four years and $250,000 later, the Mater Dei Prep Golf Outing and Picnic is a popular annual fundraiser that supports students in need.

In 1998, he led the effort to establish the Mater Dei Prep Hall of Fame, a body that has honored five dream teams and more than 100 individuals -- graduates, boosters, and benefactors -- for athletic prowess, career achievement, and service. The 2018 dinner was the most successful with 250 alumni, parents, and friends in attendance.

As founder and president of the Mater Dei Prep Alumni Association, John has leant his talents and financial support to many projects, including the track renovation, Save the Seraphs effort, refurbishment of the Frank Outwater Field House, and the Dr. John J. Cahill Scoreboard, dedicated by his family in his father’s honor. Due to his leadership, the alumni association provides steadfast support of all co-curricular programs, athletics and the performing arts. John is a member of Mater Dei’s Board of Trustees and chair of its Development Committee.

In addition to his work for Mater Dei, John served on the Board of Governors for Navesink Country Club and is a former president of the Rumson Fair Haven Pop Warner. John and his wife Suzann celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary last year. Together they have three boys, James, John and Billy.

CILU TO HOST A HOT TOPICS DISCUSSION Citizens For Informed Land Use (CILU) will host a Hot Topic discussion on February 18 at the Holmdel Senior Community Center on Crawfords Corner Road at 7:30 pm. This discussion will include an update of issues related to open space and land development in Holmdel. Current topics include the status of New Jersey Natural Gas’ appeal to the Board of Public Utilities for a Major Gas Regulator Station on Holmdel Road, the township’s plan for building more than 300 affordable housing units in different sections of town, and the town’s plan to swap 100 acres of land at Cross Farm with the County for 14 acres on Crawford Corner Road in order to build sports fields.

CILU events are free and open to the public. For more information, contact Jenni Blumenthal at 732.264.8482 or at jblumenthal@comcast.net. Citizens for Informed Land Use promotes thoughtful land use and the protection of natural resources, our land and our water. Visit us on Facebook or see our website at holmdel-cilu.org.

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COLTS NECK PTO PRESENTS ‘MARDI GRAS’ ON APRIL 11TH Mardi Gras-themed cocktails, fabulous food, and swinging music to dance the night away.

Let the good times roll at Colts Neck PTO’s Annual Spring Gala with a night of Mardi Gras!

Indulge in the best of the Big Easy at this year’s ladies’ night, taking place Thursday, April 11th from 6:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. at Eagle Oaks Country Club in Farmingdale. The event will embrace the bold, colorful spirit of Carnival with

Guests can kick the party up a notch and try their luck at bringing home one of the fabulous prizes in the gift basket raffle. The raffle features a dazzling array of desirable items, from beautiful jewelry and bags to the latest in electronics and home items. Local businesses and PTO supporters in the community generously donate many of the sought-after gifts. The evening traditionally concludes with a much-anticipated 50/50 drawing.

Funds raised by the Spring Gala support the programs of the Colts Neck PTO, which serve approximately 1000 children in Pre-K through 8th

grade in three schools in the Colts Neck community. The organization funds programs and activities that extend and enrich the educational and social experiences of the children, and provides new and innovative educational tools and technologies that would not otherwise be possible due to budgetary constraints.

Tickets for the Spring Gala are $75 per person and will be available for sale later this month, visit coltsneckpto.org for more information.

Advertising space in the event program and a limited number of sponsorship opportunities are still available. Donations for the gift basket raffle are also being accepted. To participate, please contact Spring Gala Chairs Crystal Kaplan or Courtney McCormick at gala@coltsneckpto.org.

MARTHA MARY GUILD’S FEBRUARY MEETING TO FOCUS ON SPUR Martha Mary Guild will hold its next monthly meeting on February 13 at 12:30 pm in Madonna Hall at The Parish of Saint Mary in Colts Neck. The focus of this month’s meeting will be on ‘SPUR/Special People United to Ride’, a non-profit established in 1981 in partnership with the Monmouth County Park System, supports the therapeutic equestrian programs at Sunnyside Recreation Area known as ‘The Equestrian Center’, located on Middletown-Lincroft Road in Middletown. ‘The Sunnyside Recreation Area’ is comprised of 135 acres. The Equestrian Center facility opened in 2002 as a resource for all types of riders, and horse owners.

With more than a dozen horses, the facility specializes in equestrian programs for people with physical and cognitive disabilities includ-

ing: ADD, ADHD, Autism, Bipolar Disorder, Blindness, Brain Injury, Cerebral Palsy, Cystic Fibrosis, Developmental Delays, Downs Syndrome, Epilepsy, Multiple Sclerosis, Muscular Dystrophy, Scoliosis, Spinal Cord Injuries, and Tourette Syndrome. The freedom of riding and handling a horse can provide improved physical, emotional, and psychological benefits.

Sunnyside’s professional team and trained volunteers help students work to improve self-esteem, social skills, balance, muscle tone and posture, and to process sensory messages sent to the brain. Riding a horse provides a variety of physical, emotional, and psychological stimuli. Students meet weekly and work to achieve personal goals with a tailored program of equestrian activities. Participants may begin

riding at age 4 and continue through adulthood.

When not working in lessons, the horses can be found outside in herds. All the horses are ‘barefoot’ (shoeless) and slow feeder hay bags are used. The varied terrain and a turnout track help create the most natural living environment possible. Why not take a drive and visit with family, children, grandchildren to see this special place?

DANIELA’S WISH GRANTS GREAT WOLF LODGE PACKAGE TO LOCAL GIRL Daniela’s Wish recently granted Grace, a resident of Wall Township, a two-night stay for her and her entire family to Great Wolf Lodge. In addition, they surprised her with a $500 gift card for her family to use on their stay.

Grace was diagnosed with a brain tumor in October, 2017. After surgery to remove the tumor, the doctors informed Grace’s parents it was cancerous. Her father said, “As a Marine, I thought I knew what being tough was; through this unfortunate situation, I have learned the real meaning of being a 'Warrior'. Our Grace has gone through surgery, recovery and now radiation treatment with a smile on her face.

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ing little girl who loves her dog Rosie, is a loyal friend and has a loving soul. Grace has shown our family that she is a warrior and will not let this terrible disease get the best of her. With the support of her family, faith in God, and her grit, cancer does not stand a chance!”

Left to right: Daniela’s Wish Board Member Anthony Ursino, Daniela’s Wish Board Member Diane Grieco, Daniela’s Wish Founder Daniela Olt, Grace, and Carley from Jersey Freeze

Her toughness through this has left me flabbergasted and she is my HERO. Grace is an amaz-

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE CommunityMagazineNJ.com

The mission of Daniela’s Wish is to help every child have comfort and safety during times of sadness. The foundation grants wishes to children who are ill or who have suffered a tragedy. By granting these wishes they are creating smiles and memories that can last a lifetime. For more information on Daniela’s Wish, visit danielaswish.org and their Facebook page.

THE CENTER OF BALANCE 273 NJ 34 Colts Neck, NJ 07722 732 740-­6171 www.thecenterofbalancenj.com

W O R L D

P R E M I E R E

T H E O By Directed

Ma r t i n M o r a n B y Ca r o l y n Ca n t o r

Fe b 23 - Ma r 24

Circle BMW President, Tom DeFelice (right), presented Kenneth N. Sable, (left) M.D., MBA, FACEP, regional president, southern market, Hackensack Meridian Health with a donation earmarked for the Perricone Center for Women’s Cancer at Hackensack Meridian Health Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune

Circle BMW Donates to the Perricone Center for Women’s Cancer at Jersey Shore University Medical Center Circle BMW made a donation of $10,000 to the Perricone Center for Women’s Cancer at Hackensack Meridian Health Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune. During the month of October, in conjunction with National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Circle BMW pledged to sell a minimum of 100 cars and donate $100 per car. The goal was achieved and Circle BMW’s President, Tom DeFelice, presented a check to Kenneth N. Sable, M.D., MBA, FACEP, regional president, southern market, Hackensack Meridian Health, on December 14, 2018.

“Circle BMW’s continued generosity will benefit our oncology patients and their families and help to raise awareness about the services available at Hackensack Meridian Health Jersey Shore University Medical Center,” said Dr. Sable.

The Perricone Center for Women’s Cancer is located in the new HOPE Tower, a state-of-the-art outpatient facility featuring leading experts in more than 15 specialties, an academic and research center to teach and pioneer lifesaving medical breakthroughs and a state-of-the-art cancer center with sophisticated technology all in a warm and welcoming environment that fosters healing and patient-centered care.

“It was wonderful to see the staff at Circle BMW, and our customers, embrace this campaign and commit to raising funds that will benefit women’s breast cancer care for members of our local community. We are proud to make this donation and hope it positively impacts many patients,” explained DeFelice.

CALL 732.345.1400 TWORIVERTHEATER.ORG 21 BRIDGE AVENUE, RED BANK

Monmouth County Invites Charities to Join Employee Giving Campaign The Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders is inviting charitable organizations to join the 2019/2020 New Jersey Employee Charitable Campaign.

Saint John Vianney High School

“Independent charitable organizations are invited to join the County’s annual charitable campaign,” said Freeholder Director Thomas Arnone who is the Monmouth County 2019/2020 campaign chairman. “We know that there are many local not-for-profit organizations in our community doing phenomenal work that may not know about this fundraising opportunity. This is a chance for local charities to connect with public employees here in Monmouth County.”

Interested charities must submit a completed application by 5:00 pm on Monday, March 4, 2019. To be eligible to participate, organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) and have raised at least $15,000 each year for the past two years.

For more information, please contact Maria Wojciechowski, Monmouth County NJECC coordinator, by email at njecc@ co.monmouth.nj.us or by phone at 732.303.2888. Applications and instructions may be found at njecc.net/charity-applications/.

Last year, public employees in Monmouth County and its partners throughout the state donated more than $747,000 to support the work of more than 800 charitable organizations right here in Monmouth County and around the globe.

“I am extremely proud of the County’s ongoing commitment to the annual charitable campaign,” said Freeholder Lillian G. Burry, who was the 2018/2019 campaign chairman. “I strongly encourage any qualified charity to join the upcoming New Jersey Employee Charitable Campaign. This is a wonderful demonstration of how the caring employees of Monmouth County give back to the community.”

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Celebrating 50 years of outstanding education!

We will be celebrating all year with activities and events including a Fall Festival on October 5, 2019 and our 50th Anniversary Gala in June 2020!

To sponsor or attend an event please contact Julie Pasquale pasquale@sjvhs.org or 732-739-0800, Ext. 121

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540A Line Rd., Holmdel, NJ 07733 732-739-0800 - www.sjvhs.org

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Connie Wilson recently

returned to New Jersey and Colts Neck Realty after a four-year corporate transfer to Illinois.

She is happy to be back on the East Coast and we are delighted to have her back on the roster of professionals at Colts Neck Realty.

Connie’s vast experience in both residential and commercial real estate will ensure that her clients and customers achieve their goals in finding the perfect home or site to fulfill their dreams and business requirements.

Please join us in welcoming Connie back to New Jersey!

Give her a call at 224.250.0787.

OU R E X PE RT ISE IS OU R SIGNAT U R E

Holmdel’s Inaugural Kids Mega Challah Bake

Lillian G Burry, Broker www.coltsneckrealty.com • 179 Route 537, Colts Neck Office: 732.462.6888 • cltnrealty@aol.com

Take a room full of beautiful kids, add some ingredients, mixing utensils and a hefty dose of fun, and what do you get? A Kids Mega Challah Bake!

Holmdel history was made in January when more than 75 parents and children gathered together in the Holmdel Community Center for Holmdel’s Inaugural Kids Mega Challah Bake. The event was a huge success, and kids and parents are already looking forward to next year’s event.

“We had such a great time at the Challah bake,” said Yael Menkin, Chabad of Holmdel Hebrew School mom. “My daughter and her friends and keep asking when we can do it again!”

The event began with the children decorating a gift bag with a personal note to be used for their “Loaf of Love” that each child was to give away after baking their Challah. Participants then made their way to their seats. From the Challah ingredients all premeasured and packaged in small individual containers on the tables, to the chef hat and Challah apron, each child felt proud and excited to be taking part in this important tradition. The rising Challah was then shaped, and some decorated with fun colored sprinkles or chocolate chips.

The Kids Mega Challah bake was co-sponsored by Chabad Jewish Center of Holmdel & Chabad of Holmdel Hebrew School.

CommunityMagazineNJ.com FEBRUARY 2019

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