CM: Colts Neck • Holmdel • Lincroft - June 2023

SOUTHSIDE JOHNNY

Rocking the Shore this Summer

Dr. Lauren Huntington Launches Dental Practice, Bringing Quality Care to Fair Haven

Dr. Lauren Huntington, a highly experienced dental professional, has unveiled he r latest venture—a women-owned dental practice that aims to provide exceptional care to the residents of Fair H aven. Dr. Huntington's new establishment, named "Smile Studio," represents a p ositive step towards enhancing dental services within the community.

W ith a wealth of experience in the field, Dr. Huntington brings a fresh perspective to the dental landscape in Fair H aven. Passionate about delivering personalized and efficient dental care, she h as invested in the latest technologies and techniques to ensure patients receive the highest standard of treatment.

D r. Huntington's journey in dentistry began at a young age, as she followed i n the footsteps of her father, a retired endodontist. Throughout her educational years, she dedicated herself to assisting various dentists, deepening her k nowledge and honing her skills. After completing her degrees in dental hygiene and dentistry at Lafayette College a nd NYU College of Dentistry, respectively, Dr. Huntington pursued further t raining, including a residency at Hackensack University Medical Center.

B eyond her professional accomplishments, Dr. Huntington is also a devoted family person. Alongside her husband, Brian, and their two young daughters, Hailey and Becca, they embrace a dventure and love exploring the world together.

T he opening of Smile Studio signifies not only Dr. Huntington's personal a chievement but also a positive contribution to the local community. By establishing a women-owned business, she e xemplifies the growing impact of women entrepreneurs in driving economic g rowth and opportunity.

D r. Huntington's commitment to the Fair Haven community goes beyond providing exceptional dental care. Her genuine dedication to the well-being of

her patients, combined with her focus on staying abreast of the latest advances in the field, ensures that residents have access to comprehensive and up-to-date dental services.

T he launch of Smile Studio represents an exciting milestone for both D r. Huntington and the community of Fair Haven. By prioritizing personalized care, embracing modern technology, and fostering a warm and comfortable environment, Dr. Huntington is poised to make a positive impact on the oral health and overall well-being of her patients.

A s Smile Studio opens its doors, Dr. Huntington looks forward to welcoming the Fair Haven community and forging lasting relationships based on trust, compassion, and exceptional den -

tal care. Together, let us celebrate this m omentous occasion and embrace the enhanced dental services now available to us all.

County Commissioners hosted Swimming River Park ribbon cutting ceremony

The Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners, the Monmouth County Park System and local elected officials hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony at Swimming River Park.

“ Today’s ribbon cutting signifies the completion of phase one of Swimming River Park. Phase two, expected to get underway in 2025, will include the construction of a Visitor C enter with restrooms, public gathwering areas, informative exhibits, and a rental shop for kayaks and bait,” said Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone. “I think this is going to be a s ignature park in Monmouth County. It was a team effort. We held tight, we held strong, and we came together to see what we have today.”

“ This is a spectacular park,” said Commissioner Ross F. Licitra, liaison to the Monmouth County Park System. “Everybody collaborated to get things done. I want to thank the volunteers who serve on the Board of Recreation Commissioners a nd the staff of the Monmouth County Park System for all of their work.”

“ This is a big win for Monmouth County. This project prevented development and preserved open space,” said Middletown Mayor Tony Perry. “It is truly amazing to see the partnerships that occur and the results that follow; we already see re sidents out here enjoying this park.”

“ We receive tremendous support from our County Commissioners, and we thank them for it,” said Monmouth County B oard of Recreation Commissioners Chairman Kevin Mandeville. “Our goal, as a board, is to find land for parks and

t o keep them in pristine condition so people throughout the County can enjoy them.”

“ This was an opportunity for us to do something on the river, which we did not have in our park system,” said Monmouth County Board of Recreation Commissioners Vice C hairman Anthony Fiore. “In my wildest dreams, I couldn’t imagine what I see here today. Thank you to all of the staff who have done so much to make this day happen.”

T he County paid $4,605,000 to acquire the two parcels that make up the current park. The little house next to the park entrance has not closed yet. The contract for sale is $377,500. The County expects it to close by the end of May.

V isitors will be able to enjoy fishing, crabbing, birdwatching, walking, picnicking and will be able to launch trailer and c artop boats. The park will be open every day of the year, from dawn to dusk. Trained park rangers will be on site every day to provide assistance to visitors and tend to the facilities

T he site had contaminated soils left over from the fill dirt that was used when Chris’ River Plaza Marina was created. The County worked with environmental specialists from Brinkerhoff Environmental Service, now Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, I nc. (VHB), to remediate the contamination. Some soils were removed, while others were “capped” as part of phase one construction. The cost to clean-up the soils is eligible for reimbursement from New Jersey’s Hazardous Discharge Site Remediation Fund (HDSRF).

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RWJBarnabas Health Field of Dreams Announces 2023 Line-up of Programming for Kids and Adults with Special Needs

Todd Frazier Special Needs Baseball League & Special Olympics Young Athletes Program Headline Spring Activities; Children’s Specialized Hospital Clinical Team to Support Programming

With more than 1,700 special needs families already registered as members, the RWJBarnabas Health Field of Dreams, a o ne-of-a-kind, inclusive recreational complex created for the special needs community, has announced its 2023 line-up of programming for kids and adults with special needs, headlined by the Todd Frazier Special Needs Baseball League and S pecial Olympics Youth Athletes Program.

L ed by two anchor institutions in the local area, Children’s Specialized Hospital and Community Medical Center, RWJBarnabas Health is providing resources, expertise and staffing to support day-to-day operations and annual programming at the complex. To date, 35 school districts in the region and more than 20 organizations that cater to special needs adults (21+) have utilized the complex for programming.

Founded by Christian and Mary Kane, the RWJBarnabas Health Field of Dreams was inspired by the Kane’s 12-year-old son, Gavin, who at 19-months old suffered a traumatic brain injury on July 12, 2012, when a truck hit the car Christian was driving. After living through the frustrations and struggles of finding inclusive facilities to accommodate kids with special needs, the Kane’s w ere inspired to build a recreational complex where Gavin and other children (and adults) can feel typical while enjoying recreational activities alongside f riends and family in a safe and welcoming environment.

“ It is essential for individuals of all abilities to have access to activities and therapy programs beyond our hospital w alls. The diverse line-up of programming validates that the RWJBarnabas Health Field of Dreams is the perfect venue to support the physical, mental and social well-being of children and adults with special health care needs,” said Matthew B. McDonald III, MD, President & Chief Executive Officer, Children’s Specialized Hospital. “This project reinforces RWJBarnabas Health’s commitment to health equity and supporting community-based initiatives where individuals from u nderserved populations have an opportunity to recreate.”

T he RWJBarnabas Health Field of Dreams is equipped with a baseball field, basketball court, 9-hole miniature golf course, bocce, shuffleboard, and a spectacular playground area specially designed to be more accessible for wheelchairs and adaptive equipment. Other features include a walking path with rehabilitative stations, a “quiet corner,” located in a three-sided enclosed pavilion for those with autism, bathrooms with multiple “powered” changing stations to assist c aregivers and fully accommodate the special needs community, a temperature-controlled pavilion with charging stations for powered wheelchairs, a community garden and much more.

W hile the complex is open to the special needs community, families are encouraged to register for FREE membership, w hich offers family members and caregivers’ turnkey access to the inclusive complex Monday - Saturday from 8:00am –8:00pm. Additionally, members receive regular facility news and updates, and have the opportunity to enjoy special events and programming throughout the year.

For more information on the RWJBarnabas Health Field of Dreams, programming and membership, please visit www. RWJBHFieldofDreams.com.

The T. Thomas Fortune Foundation is honored to announce Dr. Khalil Gibran Muhammad, a leading scholar, as the 2023 T. Thomas Fortune Lecturer. Dr. Muhammad is the former executive director of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture in New York. He i s currently the Ford Foundation Professor of History, Race, and Public Policy a t the Kennedy School at Harvard Uni -

Honoring Juneteenth

versity. The event kicks off the Foundation’s Juneteenth celebration, a federal h oliday commemorating Black liberation from the institution of slavery.

T he Foundation will hold a fundraiser luncheon on June 11 at 12 Noon with g uest keynote speaker Dr. Muhammad at Two River Theater. Dr. Muhammad’s address will be followed by the 3 pm matinee performance of Two Sisters and a Piano, by Pulitzer Prize Winning Playwright Nilo Cruz, a play about freedom a nd revolution, in Cuba. Doors for the luncheon will open at 11:30 am.

Dr. Muhammad’s work is broad in its examination of racism and criminal justice, economic inequality, and democracy in United States history. He is the au thor of The Condemnation of Blackness: Race, Crime, and The Making of Modern Urban America . His writings have appeared in national print and broadcast m edia and in filmmaker Ava DuVernay’s Oscar-nominated documentary 13th .

As the T. Thomas Fortune Cultural Center prepares for the Fall opening of the exhibit The Black Press: Stewards of Democracy, Dr. Muhammad’s message on the state of democracy in United States history today is a timely one. The exhibit will underscore the prominence of the T. Thomas Fortune Cultural Center’s designation as a National Historic S ite for Journalism, by the Society of Professional Journalists. The exhibit will showcase Black pioneers in the field of journalism as political and social justice activists, with T. Thomas Fortune a s a leading figure of this movement. It will also explore the shaping of black identity, black firsts in mass media and more. Purchase your ticket, which includes the play, by making your $100 don ation at:

https://secure.givelively.org/ event/t-thomas-fortune-foundation/drkhalil-gibran-muhammad-on-a-sundayafternoon-a-fundraising-event

With The 2023 T. Thomas Fortune Lecture Series Harvard University Scholar Dr. Khalil Gibran Muhammad Addresses the Black Press and the State of Democracy

Navigating the Complexities of Aging is Di cult… We Make it Easier

Steve Clayton Appointed To Brookdale Community College Board of Trustees

Brookdale Community College is pleased to announce Steve Clayton as the newest member of the Board of Trustees. As a former Brookdale student and first-generation college student, Clayton understands the significance of the role that Brookdale plays in Monmouth County and its students’ lives. He graduated with his Bachelor of Arts in History & Sociology from the University of Maryland-College Park and earned his Master of Science in Public Policy & Management from Carnegie Mellon University after a career in financial services.

“I am honored and excited to serve as a Trustee for an institution that is vital to Monmouth County, its students, and its economy,” said Clayton. “As a former Brookdale student, I hope to ensure that today’s students are given the same opportunities as I was fortunate enough to have received.”

C layton’s professional background includes working for industry leaders in the corporate and nonprofit sectors. Additionally, he has experience in local governance, having served on the Ocean Township

Board of Education. Currently, he serves as the Director of Development for Advocates for Children of New Jersey (ACNJ), a statewide nonprofit focused on ensuring that children can grow up safe, healthy, and educated.

“ Steve’s appointment by the Monmouth County Board of Commissioners to the Board of Trustees is a testament to his dedication to service and passion for education,” said Chairman Paul Crupi. Throughout his professional career, Clayton has exhibited the ability to unite people and bring them together toward a common goal by listening to different perspectives and identifying areas of potential agreement and compromise.

“ The success of our community college lies in our ability to collaborate and make progress towards our shared goals,” said President David M. Stout. “We are committed to fostering a culture of teamwork and cooperation, and I am confident that Steve’s contributions will be invaluable to the Board of Trustees as we work towards advancing the mission and vision of Brookdale Community College.”

I n addition to his professional achievements, Clayton is an active member of his community and serves on several boards. As a member of the Alumni Association Board at Carnegie Mellon University’s Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy, he continues to support his alma mater and contribute to developing the next generation of leaders. He is also a member of the Board of Directors for the Elizabeth Coalition to House the Homeless, where he works tirelessly to assist and support those in need. When not working or serving his community, Clayton enjoys running, reading, and learning about history.

IT’S SUMMERTIME! Hot Dog

MCVSD Schools Rank in NJDOE Report

The Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners recently congratulated the students, staff and administration of t he Monmouth County Vocational School District’s (MCVSD) High Technology High School, the Academy of Allied Health and Science, Biotechnology High School, Marine Academy of Science and Technology, and Communications High School for being rated as five of the highest scoring high schools in the state according to the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE).

“ The MCVSD is once again leading the way when it comes to high quality education with High Technology receiving the highest score according to the NJDOE and Academy of Allied Health and Science and Biotechnology High School scoring second and fifth highest respectively,” said Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone. “In addition, the Marine Academy o f Science and Technology (MAST) and Communications High School rated among the top 15. I want to congratulate the students, staff, parents and administration for earning this massive accomplishment.”

• Acupuncture

• Anesthesiology & Pain Management

• Avian & Exotics

• Blood Bank

• Cardiology

• Clinical Nutrition

• Critical Care

• Dentistry & Oral Surgery

• Dermatology & Allergy

• Diagnostic Imaging

• Dialysis

• Emergency Medicine

• General Medicine

• Hospice Care

• House Calls

• I-131 Therapy

• Internal Medicine

• lnterventional Radiology & Endoscopy

• Neurology & Neurosurgery

• Oncology (Medical & Radiation)

• Ophthalmology

• Pain Management

• Pet Loss Support

• Surgery (Orthopedic & Soft Tissue)

• Therapeutic Laser

“ Having five of our County Vocational Schools receive scores in the top 15 of the NJDOE ratings is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the staff, students, parents and administrators,” said Commissioner Deputy Director Nick DiRocco, liaison to the MCVSD. “Congratulations to all of the s chools for this incredible feat and thank you for representing Monmouth County so well.”

T he NJDOE rated every high school’s performance based on test results, graduation rates and other contributing factors. The MCVSD prepares students for an evolving workplace, lifelong learning and further education through specialized academics, career and technical programs and achievement of the New Jersey Student Learning Standards.

To learn more about the MCVSD, visit www.visitmonmouth.com. To learn more about the NJDOE ratings, go to w ww.rc.doe.state.nj.us.

MCVSD takes three of top five spots; five of top 15

Monmouth County Park System’s Deep Cut Gardens

Discover Deep Cut Gardens and all its charms during an open house on Saturday, June 3. From 10am - 2pm Deep Cut Gardens, located on Red Hill Road, Middletown, will offer garden tours, demonstrations, children’s activities and more. Explore the park in its full glory w ith displays and gardens in peak bloom. Admission and parking are free.

D eep Cut Gardens is the Monmouth County Park System’s site dedicated to the home g ardener. Its gardens and greenhouses are a living catalog of cultivated and native plant materials. For more information on Deep Cut Gardens or the Monmouth County Park System, visit www.MonmouthCountyParks.com or call the Park System at (732) 842-4000. The TTY/TDD number for people with hearing impairment is 711. The Monmouth County Park S ystem, created in 1960 by the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners, is Monmouth County’s Open Space, Parks and Recreation agency.

Holmdel Troop 131 Embarks on Adventurous ATV Camping Trip to Allamuchy Scout Reservation

In an exciting outdoor adventure, members of Holmdel’s Boy Scout Troop 131 embarked on an ATV camping trip to the Allamuchy Scout Reservation. The troop, consisting of enthusiastic young scouts, immersed themselves in the thrill of off-road exploration while embracing the natural beauty of Allamuchy’s picturesque landscapes.

A llamuchy Scout Reservation, located in Stanhope, New Jersey, proved to be an ideal destination for this action-packed adventure. The sprawling 1,100-acre reserve b oasts an array of diverse terrain, including wooded trails, open fields, and tranquil lakes. Its reputation as a haven for outdoor adventures attracted the scouts from Troop 131, who sought to test their skills and embrace the spirit of exploration.

A fter a completion of an ATV safe rider training class provided by the scout camp, the troop navigated the scenic trails, taking in the breathtaking views of the reservation. The thrill of maneuvering the ATVs through winding paths and challenging obstacles further fueled the scouts’ enthusiasm, while also testing their off-road driving abilities.

T roop 131’s camping experience was equally remarkable, with scouts setting up their tents amidst the rustic s urroundings of Allamuchy Scout Reservation. Embracing the camaraderie of scout traditions, they engaged in te am-building activities and honed their outdoor survival

skills. From cooking over campfires to learning essential knots and navigation techniques, the young adventurers demonstrated their commitment to personal growth and self-sufficiency.

“ The ATV camping trip to Allamuchy Scout Reservation was a fantastic opportunity for our scouts to connect w ith nature and challenge themselves in a thrilling environment,” said Scoutmaster Darryl Liedel. “We believe in i nstilling a love for the outdoors in our scouts and providing them with experiences that build character, resilience, and a sense of adventure.”

T roop 131’s ATV camping trip exemplifies the Boy Scouts of America’s commitment to fostering the development of young individuals through outdoor exploration and education. By immersing themselves in the wonders of Allamuchy S cout Reservation, the scouts cultivated valuable skills, gained a deeper appreciation for nature, and forged lifelong friendships.

W ith their successful ATV camping trip to Allamuchy Scout Reservation, Holmdel Troop 131 has once again showcased the power of adventure and the transformative impact of scouting. As these young scouts return home, they c arry with them a newfound sense of accomplishment and an enduring passion for the great outdoors. For more information, reach out to scoutmaster131nj@gmail.com.

WE GOT YOUR BACK, HIPS, KNEES & SHOULDERS, TOO.

Our bones and joints are the foundation of every movement. And at Hackensack Meridian Bayshore Medical Center, we’re ready for every knee, hip, shoulder, spine and anything else that can crunch and crack. With a top orthopedic team, innovative and minimally invasive procedures and a will that never breaks, we’re ready to get everyone back on their feet.

Scan the QR code to learn more or find a physician.

Megan’s Mindful Minute . . . The Stigma, and How it Hurts

For many years, seeking therapy has been seen as a behavior done by the weak or crazy. Mental health issues themselves have been dismissed, distorted and rebuked. This mentality is starting to shift, but still has a lingering hold. In fear of being judged, many people in need of help go without, which just compounds the issue. Mental health issues are real, some more serious than others, but regardless of the severity, seeking and receiving help is not a feeble act. Quite the contrary. Accepting that you have an issue and obtaining help is extremely difficult and takes a lot of strength. So, encourage, support and facilitate mental health care! In my opinion, everyone should be in therapy, but I'm a little biased. Stay safe, have fun and love each other.

And remember, in the wise words of my father, "People want to help more than you think, you just have to ask."

Megan Baker, LPC holds a Masters degree in Mental Health and Marriage & Family Counseling. She is a therapist with AbleTo. Have a situation or issue you need help with? Direct message Megan on Instagram INSTAGRAM @megansmindfulminute.

732-306-6397

732-306-6397

JaniceT@EXITRealtyEC.com www.JaniceTroiano.REALTOR Facebook:

JaniceT@EXITRealtyEC.com

SOUTHSIDE JOHNNY

The Grandfather of the New Jersey Sound

Story by Brian O’Malley Photo Danny Clinch

Simply put, Southside Johnny Lyon is New Jersey rock-androll royalty. As much a part of the Jersey Shore culture as saltwater taffy and summer beach badges, Lyon has been dubbed “the Grandfather of the New Jersey Sound”.

If you ask him, he’ll jokingly say that he’s the “great-great-grandfather” of that sound. At 74 years old, however, he’s still rocking his heart out at over sixty shows per year. Southside is hesitant to put a definition on the “New Jersey Sound”, or even admit that there is one, saying, “the real link between all of us is the feeling that we’re privileged to do it, and we know that we better put out the energy and put out our best show night after night.”

Despite his signature song being titled “I Don’t Want to Go Home”, Lyon is immensely proud of having grown up on the Jersey Shore, saying, “for me it was a perfect upbringing; I love New Jersey and I love Monmouth County”.

Born in Neptune at what is now Jersey Shore Medical Center, Southside was raised in Ocean Grove in the 1950s and 1960s. “It was just a magical childhood here and Ocean Grove is a really happening town”, Lyon says, adding, “we may not have realized it as kids, but it’s a pleasure to live here.” The son of musically inclined parents, Lyon grew up listening to blues, jazz, R&B, and Top 40 records, but it was the emerging rock and roll genre that stole his heart.

John began his musical endeavors singing and playing bass with his school friends, performing at area parties “whether they wanted us to or not”. He found a place in a band that was looking for a bass player, and later met local upand-coming musicians Steve Van Zandt, Bruce Springsteen, and Gary Tallent, who helped convince him to make music his career.

“ Steven and Bruce were saying that they were going to be musicians, and I thought, ‘well I am too, darn it’”, John relates, adding “I loved singing and I was getting away with it…I didn’t have any career plans so I thought that maybe I should try this.”

Lyon noted that he considered becoming a writer, but that he lacked the discipline that career required. “I’ve written lots of things, but once music grabbed hold of me, that was the end of that.” Going into the music industry wasn’t a sure thing but, as Lyon points out, “I really didn’t care if I made any money or not, and believe me in the first six or seven years we didn’t make any money”. John was able to scrape by, however, sharing a small apartment with Steve

"John, go play music while you’re young"

Van Zandt and two other musicians to make the rent.

For a brief period, Southside Johnny worked at the post office. After about ten months on the job, his supervisor approached him and advised him to quit his job and dedicate himself to making music, advice that was echoed by his father. As he tells it, “the boss came to me one day and said, ‘John go make music, don’t get stuck at the post office’… and a week later my father said almost the exact same thing, ‘John, go play music while you’re young’”.

A nd so Lyon dove headfirst into his music, linking up with Steve Van Zandt to develop a performing duo. Van Zandt and Lyon had similar tastes, both preferring their rock and roll with a little blues and R&B. The two began adding musicians to their band, all the while experimenting with the kind of sound they wanted to create. “We had an idea of what we wanted to do. We didn’t want it to be strictly rhythm and blues, we wanted a rock and roll element too,” Lyon recalls. “Eventually Steven suggested we add horns, and I said, ‘yeah let’s get horns’ and that was the start of the Jukes”.

Photo Credit Paul Drake

Southside describes the Asbury Park music scene in the late 1960s and early 1970s as a time of great experimentation. A regular feature at the Upstage Club, the Student Prince, and later the Stone Pony, Lyon, Van Zandt, and friends like Springsteen found a receptive audience at the Jersey Shore that allowed them the freedom to refine their sound. “It was the 60s, everybody seemed to want to be in a band,” Lyon says. “There

The Festival Only New Jersey Could Create

The vision of New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and First Lady Tammy Murphy, the North to Shore Festival will take place across the month of June in Atlantic City, Asbury Park, and Newark. New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), which is producing the event, is confident that the festival will provide yet another great reason for tourists to visit the Garden State, as well as provide opportunities for local business and talent in three of the state's iconic cities to shine. North to Shore ’s multi-genre lineup will feature the best of New Jersey’s music, comedy, poetry, theater, film, and technology. According to David Rodriguez, NJPAC’s Executive Vice President and Executive Producer, “A Jersey festival isn’t a Jersey festival unless it’s an authentic reflection of the artists who bring their creativity to work in this state 365 days a year.”

North to Shore ’s publicist Brian McDonough agreed, saying, “It was critical to the true intent of North to Shore that it was community members who selected the performers that best represented the arts in their respective home cities.”

The Monmouth County leg of the tour will run from June 14 to June 18 at several venues including Asbury Park staples Wonder Bar, The Stone Pony, R Bar, and The Asbury.

A mong the festival’s performers and presenters are legendary names like Alanis Morrisette, Santana, Demi Lovato, Bill

were a number of bands that were trying to find their own way of making music and we were in the thick of all that…fortunately for us the audiences in Asbury Park and Monmouth County were open to all that, they wanted to hear different things. For us, that was an education.”

The Asbury Jukes quickly found their rhythm, releasing their first album in 1976. In those early years, the band performed

over two hundred shows a year, a number that now astonishes the 74 year old Lyon. Now in their fifth decade of performing, the Asbury Jukes can claim over 100 musicians who have joined their ranks over the years. And they’re still at it, with a full slate of shows scheduled this year, including headlining the inaugural North to Shore Festival this summer and returning to The Stone Pony Summer Stage in September.

Burr, and Bill Nye “The Science Guy”. W hen asked about the decision to invite Southside Johnny to play, the festival organizers said, “Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes are Jersey legends. When the idea of a statewide festival came up, NJPAC knew Southside Johnny needed to be involved.”

Lyon is excited to be a part of North to Shore and looks forward to his fans having a good time. As to what kind of show we can expect and whether there will be any surprises in store, Southside says, “I usually rely on the night to tell me what I need to

do”. He added, “you know, you make a set list and then you laugh because you know you’re not going to follow it…luckily I have a band that I can shout out songs to and they’re right on top of it”.

NJPAC is hopeful that the festival will also provide opportunities for local business and talent in its host cities to shine. In addition to providing a forum for outstanding entertainment, the goal is that North to Shore will generate economic activity while highlighting the depth of the state’s diversity, creativity, and energy.

Photo Credit Bob Schultz

We’re Havin’ a Party

The home of the Jersey Shore music scene since 1973, The Stone Pony looks forward to the start of its annual Summer Stage Show in the next few weeks. The iconic Asbury Park club was the springboard for musicians like Southside Johnny, Bruce Springsteen, Steve Van Zandt, and Jon Bon Jovi. Summer Stage can attribute a great deal of its success to the album release concert for Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes first record, “I Don’t Want to Go Home”, on Memorial Day weekend 1976. Southside has been a regular performer at the Summer Stage in the decades since.

W ith a performance slated on September 2, Lyon is excited to be a part of this year’s program. “It’s a great place and they do a terrific job,” Lyon says. “People sit on the boardwalk and near the hotels and they watch…I’m happy that they’re happy.” With plans for The Jukes’ setlist still in the works, Southside admits, “once it starts looming on the horizon I’ll start thinking about what I want to do.”

Lyon describes his strategy for designing a show, “basically what we’re trying to do is please ourselves, musically, and find some way to go that’s exciting and gratifying. We hope that the audience likes it, and fortunately for all of us we have found an audience that does,” adding that, “the audience really brings out the best in us and those are the things you live for”.

He is grateful for the support his fans have provided the band throughout the years, saying, “we have an audience that was willing to give us a shot. If you are re -

ally sincere in what you’re doing they will listen to you and they will respond.” John is quick to joke that he can rely on his Monmouth County fans to keep him honest, saying, “nobody ever goes through the motions with a Jersey Shore audience without being, you know, booed…you really have to put it out.”

Southside Johnny’s body of work has become so much so identified with the state that he was inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame in 2019. Lyon never imagined the kid from Ocean Grove would ever be added to the Hall of Fame’s roster, joking, “no, I never thought I would. I thought maybe I’d make it on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted List, but not the Hall of Fame.” Humor aside, Southside is humbled by the recognition, wishing that his parents were still alive to witness the event. “It would have tickled them pink,” he said, adding, “it’s an honor

that seems so over the top for me because I’m a singer, you know, and there are people out there like firemen and all the rest who really deserve that kind of honor”. Lyon noted that he accepted the Hall of Fame induction at the insistence of his good friend, Jon Bon Jovi. “I couldn’t say no...he’s been a really good friend to me for years and years”.

The Monmouth County native still lives in Ocean Grove today and he loves his hometown. In his typical humorous style, Southside Johnny reminds his neighbors that “summer is coming…fight for those beach parking spaces!”

A sked why he remains in Monmouth County after all these years, Lyon says with a bit of pride, “I’ve lived all around - all over California, Delaware, Nashville, New York. I washed up back at the Jersey Shore, and I figure this is where I belong.”

Photo Credit Paul Drake

To learn more about Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes, visit southsidejohnny.com

For information about the North to Shore Festival and to purchase tickets, visit northtoshore.com

For information about The Stone Pony’s Summer Stage shows, including the September 2 performance by Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes, visit stoneponyonline.com

CASA for Children of Monmouth Salt Creek Grille Wine and Martini Tasting

CASA for Children of Monmouth County recently thanked everyone who had a part in making their first fundraiser, The Salt Creek Grille Wine and Martini Tasting, a success. Sponsors and guests who attended this pandemic-postponed event enjoyed a fabulous evening with delicious food and wonderful drinks provided by Salt Creek Grille, Lusty Lobster, J. Lohr, and many other generous vendors, to help the foster children in Monmouth County.

T he Wine and Martini Tasting was a sold-out event three years in the making (due to the pandemic) to benefit CASA of Monmouth, in partnership with Steve Bidgood from The Salt Creek Grille in Rumson. The proceeds from this event raised money to help CASA continue its mission of advocacy and bring awareness to its program.

“ CASA was thrilled to welcome our friends and supporters for this amazing night of food, drinks, and honoring Cindi Van Brunt. The Wine and Martini Tasting was an amazing f irst gala for all our guests after a three-year lull! We are so thankful to Steve Bidgood and his staff Mark Shopene, GM; Cesar Cardenas, Executive Chef; Barbara Penta, Private Dining Director; and Karen Irvine, Public Relations for teaming u p with our non-profit and supporting our program” said CASA of Monmouth Director of Community Development, Marielaina LaRosa.

C ASA and the Board honored Cindi Van Brunt, CASAs

former Executive Director who passed away in November 2022 after a six-year battle with ovarian cancer. Cindi’s husband Jason Van Brunt, their two sons, and Rudy Cindi’s father were presented with a proclamation in her honor from t he State of New Jersey, presented by Senator Declan O’Scanlon of Legislative District 13.

C ASAs are highly trained volunteers from the community who are assigned to work with children in the child welfare system. CASAs serve as the child’s “voice in court” to ensure the child’s needs are being met while in foster placement a nd to work towards a permanent, safe home. CASA ensures these children do not fall through the cracks of the child welfare system. CASA of Monmouth County is committed to providing an advocate for every child in the child welfare system. “Because of this event and the generous sponsors and s upporters, we are one step closer to providing every single child in foster care in our county a CASA, an adult who cares about them and will fight for the services they need,” said Lynn Goelz, CASA’s new Executive Director.

C ASA thanked The Salt Creek Grille, our Sponsors, and our Supporters for making this event so successful. For more information on volunteering or donating to CASA for Children of Monmouth, please visit www.casaofmonmouth.org, or call the offices at (732) 460-9100.

Gregg Shaw - cfp® & Charles Harris - cpa

Middletown Arts Center Presents August Wilson’s Jitney

Friday, June 2, 8pm

Saturday, June 3, 3pm & 8pm

Sunday, June 4, 4pm

Friday, June 9, 8pm

Saturday, June 10, 3pm & 8pm

Sunday, June 11, 4pm

Set in the early 1970s, this richly textured play follows a group of men trying to eke out a living by driving unlicensed cabs, or jitneys, in the black neighborhood of Pittsburgh’s Hill District. Jitney is the seventh in the Pulitzer-prize-winning playwright’s ten-play cycle (collectively called The American Century Cycle or The Pittsburgh Cycle) on the black experience in twentieth-century America. This will take place at the Middletown Arts Center.

Tutu Trot 5k Run/Walk at Middletown High School South

June 11, 9am

The 8th annual Infinite Love for Kids Fighting Cancer "Tutu Trot" 5K Run/Walk has a goal of raising $100,000 for the Children's Brain Tumor Network, a global research effort based at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. They are looking to repeat the amount they raised in 2022, thanks to the efforts and generosity of hundreds of participants, donors, and sponsoring companies. Sign up here: https://runsignup.com/ Race/Events/NJ/Middletown/ teamcarolineandmiatututrot#event701791.

Red Bank Classic 5k

June 17, 8:30am

Runners and walkers of all ages and abilities are invited back for the 3.1mile trek through Red Bank. Area

residents are encouraged to cheer them on and gather afterward for community fun. Strollers and leashed dogs are welcome. Run supports the YMCA of Greater Monmouth County youth programs!

Jersey Shore’s Partnership Summer Celebration at Fort Hancock, Sandy Hook

June 12, 5:30pm - 9:30pm

This annual event is the “unofficial” kickoff to summer at the Jersey Shore, bringing together corporate leaders, non-profits, environmentalists, academics, and elected officials who support the Partnership’s mission to protect and preserve our coastline.

Annual Golf & Tennis Classic at Eagle Oaks Golf and Country Club

June 19

Enjoy a morning or afternoon of golf, round robin tennis tournaments, BBQ lunch, awards and dinner reception and live auctions. To register, please visit https://one.bidpal.net/sptsusa/ welcome.

Stroll and Roll Wellness Walk Monmouth County at Asbury Park Boardwalk

June 22, 1pm - 2pm

MOCEANS CIL is a 501(c)3 based in Monmouth County that provides supportive services for those living with a disability. Join us for a walk or roll down Asbury Park's iconic boardwalk (meeting at the corner of Convention Hall, 5th Avenue & Ocean Avenue). Spend an hour outdoors socializing while enjoying physical health benefits. There is no fee to participate, but please RSVP to: susan.mazzeo@moceanscil.org.

100th Celebration of the Borough of Little Silver

June 24, Parade 3pm and Opening Ceremony 4pm

The day will kick-off at 3pm with a parade through town honoring Little Silver’s long-time residents, community clubs, and youth, sporting, and civic organizations. After the parade, celebratory events will begin at Borough Field with food, music, and family fun, including children’s activities and a fireworks show at the end of the evening. The event is open to all Little Silver residents past and present.

Kids Yoga Class at Blue Moon Yoga in Shrewsbury

June 24, 10am

This FREE yoga class will give kids ages 8 –12 a chance to try out yoga, make new friends, learn to relax, and boost their confidence. Space is limited, so sign up now at blueyoga. net or by calling (732) 345-YOGA (9642).

United for Impact Food Truck Festival

June 25, 2pm-6pm

West Main Street in Freehold

Guests will enjoy great food from 10 food trucks, 20 vendors, beer and live music while supporting United Way’s critical work in our community. Music entertainment includes The Joe Baracata Band, Eddie Testa Band and The Break Plans. Tickets for a 50/50 cash raffle will be available for purchase. The suggested donation of $5.00 per person to enter the festival will help advance UWMOC’s mission to bridge the gaps to education, financial stability and health for every person in our community.

Accepting event listings at info@communitymagazinenj.com.

Gordon H. Mansfield Veterans Community Dedicated Women’s Wing in Honor of Commissioner Burry

Monmouth County Commissioner Lillian G. Burry was honored during a dedication ceremony of “The Lillian G. Burry Women’s Wing” at the Gordon H. Mansfield Veterans Community on Thursday, May 18.

Solider On and WinnCompanies dedicated this wing in honor of Commissioner Burry for her unwavering civic spirit, patriotism and perseverance in creating the Gordon H. Mansfield Veterans Community in Tinton Falls.

“Commissioner Burry is a fearless, staunch advocate for the veterans’ community and is truly deserving of this dedication,” said Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone. “On behalf of the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners, congratulations to Commissioner Burry for receiving this well-deserved honor.”

“I am incredibly thankful to Solider On and WinnCompanies for the thoughtful dedication of the women’s wing at the Gordon H. Mansfield Veterans Community,” said Commissioner Burry. “This project did not get accomplished alone and I am filled with gratitude to those who stood with me during the process to provide this community to our veterans, to whom we owe an incredible debt.”

The Gordon H. Mansfield Veterans Community features 70 fully furnished one-bedroom apartments and a special women’s-only wing. Residents enjoy a vast offering of community sup -

portive services, general wellness, health, and social opportunities.

Soldier On, the service provider, assists residents with maintenance, transportation, service referrals, intakes and discharges a nd is committed to helping our veterans reclaim their place in the community while bringing meaning and dignity back to their lives.

Commissioner Ross F. Licitra (far right) presented Commissioner Burry with a proclamation on behalf of the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners in her honor at the dedication ceremony of “The Lillian G. Burry Women’s Wing” at the Gordon H. Mansfield Veterans Community. Photo Courtesy of Monmouth County Government.

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County Commissioners Recognize Military Appreciation Month

Monmouth County continues to offer services to veterans

The Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners honored active duty m ilitary personnel and veterans by proclaiming May as Military Appreciation M onth during the Commissioners Meeting on May 11.

“ The Monmouth County Veterans Services Office serves past, present and future veterans by helping them find the benefits and services they have earned as members of the military,” said Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone. “We c ontinue to thank all who have served our nation for their honor, commitment

and sacrifice to defend our Country.”

“ In Monmouth County, veterans’ assistance includes initiating service-connected compensation and pension claims w ith the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and guiding veterans through the process of gathering medical documentation to support service-connected c ompensation and pension claims,” said Commissioner Susan M. Kiley, liaison to the Division on Aging, Disabilities and Veterans Services. “Referral services include Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder counseling; individual counseling; group

counseling; family counseling; readjustment counseling; bereavement counseling; and employment counseling/vocational rehabilitation.”

I nterment services include maintaining records of deceased Monmouth C ounty veterans and handling requests for services from veterans and family members.

For more information about services and resources available to veterans and their families, call (732) 431-3214 or visit www.visitmonmouth.com.

From Tragedy to Triumph: Ritesh Shah Charitable Pharmacy’s Impactful Year in Medication Accessibility

One year has passed since our initial story in June 2022, and The Ritesh Shah Charitable Pharmacy (RSCP) has made remarkable strides in its mission to provide essential prescriptions to those in need. With a commitment to reducing health inequities and increasing access to medications, i mmunizations, health education, and pharmacy services for uninsured and underserved patients, this organization has been actively working to bridge the gap for individuals who struggle to afford vital pharmaceutical drugs.

O ver the past year, RSCP has successfully dispensed more than 2,344 prescription medications to over 240 patients. This has been made possible thanks to the generosity of donors who have contributed to the organization’s m ission. However, their work is far from over, and they aim to further expand their outreach.

T he pharmacy estimates that approximately 100,000 New Jerseyans living at or below 300% of the federal poverty line are unable to meet their critical pharmaceutical needs.

Thus, the continued support of the community is crucial in order to provide assistance to these underserved and uninsured individuals.

W hile pharmaceutical manufacturers have offered formulary medications to the organization at significantly r educed rates, the expense of certain medications, such as insulin pens, remains high, with a monthly cost exceeding $300 even after reductions.

To celebrate their progress and rally support, RSCP invites everyone to attend their gala event on June 30. This occasion presents an opportunity to contribute to their noble c ause and help them continue their valuable work.

W ith the continued support and generosity of the community, RSCP remains optimistic about the impact they c an make in the lives of underserved individuals. Working together toward a future where equitable access to critical medications is a reality for all.

JAIME DIAZ, MD DANIELLE NARDONE, DO NILIKA GULATI, DMD DIKSHYA KOIRALA, APN