Navesink Community Messenger March 2011

March 2011

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Vol. IV, Issue III

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Community Messenger

March 2011

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March 2011

Community Messenger

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Community Messenger

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INDEX

News.......................................4–30 Calendar...............................18-19 Columns..............................32-33 For Kids.....................................24 Our Charity ..............................21 Pets.......................................22-23 Where’s Moose?.........................22 Puzzles........................................25 Your Say......................................31 Local Service Listing...................17

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STAFF PUBLISHERS: Cliff Moore and Vin Gopal DESIGN: Lori Donnelly GENERAL MANAGER: Maria Connors CORRESPONDENTS: Ashley Drapkin Matthew R. Linderoth Kaitlin Severini Shirley StClair Michelle Tuchol

March 2011

Red Bank School District institutes new type of parent-teacher conference involving students

By MATTHEW R. LINDEROTH Correspondent RED BANK BOROUGH – The Red Bank School District has recently instituted a pilot parent-teacher conference program.

After working with the state Department of Education, attending hours of classes staged by the Department of Education and working during the school year to implement the new program, the teachers and administrators at the Red Bank School District are ready to put all of their hard work to the test.

Known as “student-led conferences,” Red Bank public schools are attempting to move past the traditional parent-teacher conference to a model where the student plays a larger role in evaluating their education. Superintendant Dr. Laura Morana explained the theory behind the program is to “empower the student to take responsibility for his or her own learning.”

As a result, a student-led conference will require each student to lead the conference and discuss his or her education with their parent. During the conference, the student will discuss their strengths and weaknesses, what subjects they enjoy and which they do not, the reasons for it and what the parents and teachers can do to help the student succeed in every academic subject. After the student provides their analysis, the student’s parents will be asked what they think can be done to maintain the strengths indicated by the student while improving upon any weaknesses.

During the conference, the teacher no longer plays the primary role, which typically has been explaining to the parent what the teacher feels the student’s strengths and weaknesses are. Instead, they will now act as a “neutral observer,” only stepping in when needed and creating a collaborative environment between the parent, the student and the teacher all with the hope of

fostering a student’s sense of responsibility for their education. Conference times will be extended as well, from an average time of ten minutes to a minimum of 20.

Responsibility is the key to the program.

To prepare for the conference, each student will now keep a time management log to be used both in school and at home. They will maintain samples of their work, be encouraged by their teacher to reflect upon their studies and enter in a “Contract for Success” that will make the student more motivated, reflective and evaluative towards their education, which will ultimately prepare each student for the independence required of the 21st Century job market.

For this year, the program will be limited to just the fourth grade, and next year, if the program is a success, to the fifth grade. The ultimate goal is to implement the program district-wide.

Rumson-Fair Haven head coach to

receive Coach of the Year Award EATONTOWN TOWNSHIP – The 39th Annual Vince Lombardi Awards Banquet, will honor Rumson-Fair Haven High School’s head coach, Shane Fallon, as Coach of the Year and Shore Regional High School as Team of the Year.

The awards banquet, sponsored by the Rotary Clubs of Monmouth County and coordinated by the Center for Vocational Rehabilitation, will be held on Thursday, March 3, at the Sheraton Hotel, Eatontown, at 6 p.m.

Proceeds from the event will benefit charities of the Monmouth County Rotary Clubs, the Center for Vocational Rehabilitation and the Monmouth Chapter American Cancer Society.

Coach Shane Fallon has been the Head Football Coach at Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School for 13 years. He has a career record of 89 wins and 46 losses. Fallon has achieved four Divisional Championships, 2007 State Finals, 2009 New York Jets Coach of the Week, 2010 Center Jersey Group 2 State Champions, 2010 Coach of the Year – Asbury Park Press, Star Ledger, and All Shore Media. Numerous players who Fallon has worked with have gone on to play at the collegiate level. His quarterback/wide receiver camp is a proven winner.

Shore Regional High School football team had a spectacular title season with an

11-1 record. The Blue Devils won the NJSIAA Central Jersey Group 1 Championship record in 2010. Much of the credit goes to their head coach Mark Costantino.

This is the second state title for Costantino.

Shore Regional averaged over 31 points per game while allowing an average of only 8 points. The team’s top performers on offense included quarterback Evan Ruane, running backs Mark Coleman and Pat Maggio (both rushed for over 1,000 years and scored 26 TDs between them), and kicker and wide receiver Shane Carroll, who led the team in scoring with 115 points.

The awards banquet’s main purpose is to honor one outstanding lineman from each of the Monmouth County High School football teams. The individuals that have been selected best exemplify the traditions and ideals of the legendary Vince Lombardi. Originally founded on a college level, the Rotary Clubs of Monmouth County received special permission to present this award on a high school level. Currently the Monmouth County dinner is the only one held in New Jersey.

March 2011

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Fire Haven firefighter follows in family’s footsteps

By KAITLIN SEVERINI Correspondent

FAIR HAVEN BOROUGH – It must run in the family. With both his father and uncle involved in the Fair Haven Fire Department, Tom Conley has been a dedicated volunteer firefighter in Fair Haven for eight years.

“I joined in February 2003,” Conley said. “I already knew a bunch of people [in the department] from growing up in the town, so I decided to join. It’s like a family over there.”

Conley lives with his wife, Carly, in Middletown, and works in construction in the Monmouth County area.

To begin his journey toward becoming a firefighter, Conley spent three months

training in the Firefighter I program to become certified. Since then, he has responded to hundreds of calls in Fair Haven and neighboring towns, and participated in many competitions, fundraisers and drills.

“It’s pretty quiet in town,” Conley said.

“But we get almost 200 calls a year.”

While he enjoys his position in the department now, one day, Conley hopes to run for the chief position. To be chief, Conley would have to live in Fair Haven or an adjacent town.

“If we ever move closer, I’d consider running for chief,” Conley said. “I probably will end up running for it.”

To run for chief, a contender must also complete the Firefighter II program, which is not mandatory for the other volunteers. “[Firefighter II] goes into more extreme

conditions, more advanced techniques,” Conley said. “It’s a course that I haven’t taken yet, but I plan to.”

From the Fireman’s Fair to field days to the close-knit group of volunteer firefighters, Conley believes that nothing but good has come from his experiences with the department.

“It has definitely had a positive impact,” Conley said.

“Getting to know all of the different people is a good expe- Fair Haven firefighter Tom Conley (right) posrience. And through this, I got es with other volunteers at the 2010 Monmouth to know people I already knew County Fair Field Day.–Photo courtesy Tom Conley a lot better. It’s brought me a lot Fire Department or to learn how you can closer to them.” become a firefighter, please visit www.

For more information on the Fair Haven fhfd.org.

Red Bank Charter School announces new milestones in its nutrition project RED BANK BOROUGH – Red Bank Charter School (RBCS), a non-profit, non-partisan, K-8 public school, recently announced new milestones in its Nutrition Project to provide meals prepared on-site to its students and faculty.

RBCS has wrapped up construction of a new kitchen, complete with appliances, storage, and basic equipment. The school

has additionally completed a review of U.S. Department of Agriculture and food industry guidelines for preparing food on site while meeting Federal Nutrition Program Guidelines. The first step will be to introduce the Pilot Breakfast Program.

RBCS is also receiving support for its program from the Great American Salad Bar project, which is giving the school

salad bar equipment worth more than $3,000 and a two-year start-up collaboration with Whole Foods.

“We are thrilled with the progress we’ve made on our Nutrition Project, which owes so much to the support of our Charter Community Organization, donations from individuals, Kevin Kelleher’s leadership, and the tireless physical labor

of Mike Woods and a number of parents,” Principal Meredith Pennotti said. “Our message for 2011 is RBCS: Leading the Way. We are very proud of the ingenuity, sacrifice and continued commitment our charter community maintains for ensuring the excellent development of the whole child.”

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Community Messenger

March 2011

Best-selling author visits Knollwood School

Author Peter Lerangis addressed students at an assembly (above) and gave pointers at a writing workshop (below) during a recent visit to Knollwood School.–Both photos courtesy Knollwood School

By KAITLIN SEVERINI Correspondent FAIR HAVEN BOROUGH – On January 25, Knollwood School students and faculty welcomed renowned children’s and young adult book author Peter Lerangis.

Lerangis, author of more than 160 books, including the New York Times–bestselling children’s-book series “The 39 Clues,” spoke to the entire student body in two assemblies in the morning and ran a writing workshop for 25 students in the afternoon.

“Every student in the school got to hear him,” Patrice Horan, Knollwood’s librarian, said.

Each assembly was an hour long and included a question and answer session at the end. Lerangis talked to the students about his career, his inspiration and the typical life of a writer, as well as answered questions about his upcoming books and how he gets his ideas.

“He was very real with the kids,” Horan said. “He just pulled up a chair next to them.

He talked to them and got to know them. He remembered their names. That impressed me.”

For the workshop portion, 25 students from all grades (fourth through eighth) were chosen from the more than 50 students who applied for the workshop.

Lerangis led the 25 aspiring writers through an hour-long brainstorming session, guiding them through the process of creating

a main character and building a story around him or her.

“They ended up creating a science fiction outline of a story,” Horan said. “They learned about how much thinking they have to do before they write. It gave them more confidence. Some of the students have told me that they’re going to write this story up.”

The story was about an alien who does not know he is an alien. The students worked hard to characterize the protagonist’s reactions to his newfound identity and Lerangis helped them work through plot and character development in the outlines. “[Lerangis] heard from everyone and everyone was given the same amount of attention. Their ideas were valued. They were able to take their ideas and run with them.”

In addition to the assemblies and the workshop, Lerangis ate lunch with several of the students not attending the workshop, and at the end of the day, he held a book signing.

“Seeing someone who really relates to the students sparks their reading,” Horan said.

“Every year [the library’s] circulation goes up. It helps promote that.”

Knollwood’s author visits are held annually, and Horan works over the summer to line up an author for the upcoming school year.

The goal is to invite authors who appeal to all age groups and genders, and whose books are popular among the students.

For more information, contact Patrice Horan at horanp@fairhavenbe.org.

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An inside look at Red Bank’s preschool program

By MATTHEW R. LINDEROTH Correspondent

RED BANK BOROUGH – A new trend in public education is taking place. Each day in Red Bank, 238 children ages three and four wake up and head out to school. These children are exposed to many concepts and skills that will prepare them for the future.

The children’s school day begins at 8:30 in the morning, ends at 3:25 in the afternoon, and is taught by a highly qualified teacher, meaning he or she has had at least 30 college credit hours of specific training in preschool education.

Along with the teacher, an assistant teacher is in the room to aid the teacher who, while class sizes are restricted to 15, can sometimes find his or her hands full.

The day, just like older student’s days, is

structured into ten distinct classes that provide each preschooler the building blocks they will need for kindergarten and beyond. Aside from naptime, every moment of the day is used as a “teachable” moment.

For instance, each morning the teachers begin the students’ day by asking the students about the weather, the day of the week and the date. Whatever the weather might be is marked on a bar graph, which is then used to teach the children about comparisons as well as basic geometry skills through the use of the graph.

The teacher then asks the students the date and day of the week and using a calendar, counts the number of school days left in the year and the number of days that have passed. This teaches the children about addition and subtraction as well as exposing them to the different months and days of the week.

Even during playtime, the students are learning. The day I visited the Red Bank preschool, the children were playing supermarket. It was here that having an aid in the room really paid off.

A group of children acted as delivery drivers transporting supermarket goods via a cardboard train. On the other end of the room, a group of children acted as shoppers waiting for the delivery and the ability to purchase a wide assortment of products. All of it was designed to teach children basic shopping skills, vocabulary skills and social skills of working in a group to complete a common goal and waiting in line, with the latter being a much tougher skill to teach than one could imagine.

One might wonder why a college educated, “highly qualified” teacher is required, especially since most private preschools do not employ

equally qualified individuals. At first glance, one might assume the main task of the teachers is corralling the children. In fact, the teachers spend most of their time bent over or kneeling on the floor, guiding the students and keeping them on task.

However, calling them glorified babysitters would be a gross misrepresentation. Each day the teachers walk a fine line. They must maintain the students’ attention while not pushing them so hard that they become exhausted. They must recognize the different learning levels of each student and adjust the material accordingly, all of which requires an inordinate amount of planning.

Currently, the Red Bank Preschool is housed out of the YMCA, the Monmouth Day Care Center and St. Anthony of Padua.

An overview of the Monmouth County Library System

By MATTHEW R. LINDEROTH Correspondent

MONMOUTH COUNTY – The Monmouth County Library System, with 12 branches and 40 member towns, is the largest circulating library in New Jersey.

Lately, with the area suffering through the prolonged nationwide depression, more and more people have been turning to the library for information and fun. During 2010, the library system saw a large increase in the number of

patrons.

“We have had increases across the board, from the number of new patrons to the numbers of people attending out programs,” Freeholder Lillian G. Burry, liaison to the Library Commission, said. “On any given day, 1,000 patrons walk through the doors at each of the two largest branches in Manalapan and Shrewsbury.”

In 2010: Circulation increased 3 percent. New patrons increased from 203,607 to 218,783. Patrons accessing new materials increased 13 percent.

Program attendance at the Manalapan Headquarters increased 12 percent to 57,000.

Circulation of children’s world language books increased 65 percent. Circulation of children’s instructional DVDs increased 31 percent.

Attendance at children’s programs systemwide increased 7.5 percent to 78,580.

The Monmouth County Library System is spread out across the county with two main branches. Its two largest branches are in Manalapan and Shrewsbury with smaller branches in Atlantic Highlands, Hazlet, Holm-

del, Colts Neck, Allentown, Howell, Marlboro, Ocean Township, Oceanport, Wall and West Long Branch.

Among the numerous services the library offers, for this coming tax season, the Eastern Branch in Shrewsbury and the Headquarters branch in Manalapan will have volunteers on hand to aid people in filling out and filing their income tax returns.

Events and other information can be found at the library website www.monmouthcountylib. org.

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Community Messenger

March 2011

How to make homemade cleaning supplies for the kitchen and bath

By MATTHEW R. LINDEROTH Correspondent

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This winter has been particularly harsh.

For most of it, the ground was covered in snow and if you were like me, you spent most of your time indoors.

But now spring is just around the corner and it is time to open the windows, air out the house and prepare for the much welcomed warm weather. Instead of using store-bought products made from harsh chemicals, here are some recipes easily made at home that will not endanger your family.

Window Cleaner Recipe #1 You will need a bottle of 90 percent rubbing alcohol (most rubbing alcohol is 73 percent so be sure to check the label).

Filtered water, bottled water or if you have a water purify attached to your tap will work perfectly. Do not use plain tap water. Municipal water contains minerals and fluoride, both of which will not clean your windows. Lastly, you will need a spray bottle. Any spray bottle will work, even an empty glass cleaner bottle. Just make sure to rinse it out thoroughly before you use it.

Mix equal parts alcohol and filtered water in a spray bottle. To use, spray on glass and wipe.

can dry and absorb the stain. After 24 hours, remove the plastic wrap and wash the area clean with mild soap and water.

Tile and grout cleaner

You will need a half cup of baking soda, one third cup of ammonia, a quarter cup of white vinegar and seven cups of water. Mix all ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well. To use, spray mixture and wipe off with a damp sponge.

Toilet bowl cleaner Recipe #1 Personally cleaning the toilet is the last thing I want to do. Usually, I let my laziness trump my cheapness and I buy a tablet that I drop in the top tank and forget about. However, the following recipe costs just 5 cents and is just as effective.

To make you will need to mix borax and lemon juice together to form a paste.

Flush the toilet to wet the bowl and rub the paste on. Let sit for two hours and flush the bowl to rinse.

Recipe #2 An even easier method of cleaning your toilet is using denture-cleaning tablets.

Drop two tablets in the toilet. The tablets will fizzle in the water. Let the tablets sit in the toilet for several minutes and flush to rinse.

Showerhead cleaner

Recipe #2 The second recipe is slightly stronger in both effectiveness and aroma. To make, you will need a half tablespoon of mild dish detergent, three tablespoons of vinegar and two cups of water. Mix all ingredients in a spray bottle and shake.

Both recipes work great for windows, mirrors, computer screens and eyeglasses.

Is your showerhead full of grime and hard water stains? To clean it, first remove the showerhead. Mix together warm water, baking soda, and vinegar in a container large enough to completely submerge your showerhead. Place your showerhead in the container and let soak.

Marble and granite cleaner

Shower and tub cleaner

Marble and granite both look nice, especially as kitchen countertops, but they are porous and can stain. Instead of spending money on a cleaning product, try this easily made recipe.

You will need baking soda, water and plastic wrap. First, dampen the affected area. Next, mix the baking soda and water together until it forms a paste with the consistency of sour cream and spread it over the stain. Take the plastic wrap and cover the stain and at least two inches past the area you have covered with the paste.

Let it sit for 24 hours, so the baking soda

For cleaning your shower or bathtub, you will need just two ingredients, baking soda and Dawn dish soap. Mix the Dawn dish soap with the baking soda just enough to moisten the baking soda. To apply, use a washcloth and scrub away. It should not take too much effort to remove just about any stain in your bathtub or shower.

Cautionary Note: Never mix bleach with any soap or ammonia, as the mixtures will create toxic fumes.

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March 2011

A co-worker’s first foray into the world of book publishing

By SHIRLEY STCLAIR Correspondent Have you ever wondered what it would be like to meet a famous author when they first get published or are just starting their professional writing career? The question came to mind because one of my co-workers, Matthew R. Linderoth, is such a person.

He is a young man who is just starting his career as a historical author and has recently published his first book, “Prohibition on the North Jersey Shore: Gangsters on Vacation.”

“Prohibition on the North Jersey Shore: Gangsters on Vacation” provides a look at how towns such as Asbury Park, Atlantic Highlands and Ocean Grove began as quiet retreats for pious New Yorkers wishing to escape the vice and crime of the city, before becoming a haven for criminals who smuggled liquor through the seaside with the passage of Prohibition.

It explains how gangsters like Vito Genovese, Charles Luciano and Meyer Lansky ruled this brutal underworld as well as how the Ku Klux Klan found a very welcoming

home along the North Jersey Shore while tourist and local residents alike struggled to deal with crime unfolding all around them. You will also find out what Atlantic Highlands, Red Bank, Leonardo, Belford, Keansburg, Keyport and other towns had in common during that time. Also, most of the pictures in the book have never been seen, and Linderoth designed the maps within the book.

Linderoth holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Rutgers University and a master’s in U.S. History from Monmouth University, where he specialized in-20th century U.S. social history.

He is a trained historian who spent two years researching and read over 100 books on a wide range of topics, spending thousands of hours in the

archives of the Monmouth County Historical Association, the Long Branch Library, the Asbury Park Library, the Rutgers University Library, the Monmouth University Library, the New Jersey State Library, the Middletown Library and the Monmouth County Library.

Linderoth will be lecturing and signing books at local historical societies and associations in the coming months: • March 19 from 1-3 p.m. at the Holmdel Barnes & Noble on Route 35; • March 21 at 7:30 p.m. in the MacLeod-Rice House at Croydon Hall, 900 Leonardville Road, Leonardo; • April 27 at 7:30 p.m. at the Long Branch Historical Association; • May 29 at the Galleria in Asbury Park; and • June 22 at 7:30 p.m. at the Atlantic Highlands Historic Association at the senior center.

“Prohibition on the North Jersey Shore: Gangsters on Vacation” can be found at Barnes & Nobles, Amazon, the Book Compound in Atlantic Highlands and the Galleria in Asbury Park.

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March 2011

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68 years and counting

By ASHLEY DRAPKIN Correspondent

FAIR HAVEN BOROUGH – “He’s mine already and he doesn’t know it,” Dorothy Vaccarelli recalled about the first time she ever met her husband, Dr. Lloyd Vaccarelli.

On February 18, Lloyd turned 94 and Dorothy will be turning 90 on March 22.

Both Dorothy and Lloyd are one out of ten children.

Lloyd went to dental Dr. Lloyd and Dorothy Vaccarelli.–Ashley Drapkin school at the Medical College of Virginia, which is moved to Fair Haven and lived there for now Virginia Commonwealth.

54 years.

“I didn’t go to college because times Lloyd was the first dentist in Fair Haven were very hard because of the depression, and he used to be the school dentist, where so I set out to find a good husband,” Doro- every Wednesday he would treat underthy said laughing. privileged children for free.

They were set up on a blind date with “I used to go into A&P in Little Silver as Dorothy’s sister and another guy, but Dor- well as Acme in Fair Haven and play the othy knew as soon as she saw him that he harmonica,” Lloyd said. was going to be hers.

When Dorothy was younger, her and Lloyd had joined the United States Navy her sisters used to have singing contests and was stationed in Hawaii for five years. and one time, she even won a blue ribbon.

He was a Senior Lieutenant for 1500 men. Dorothy and Lloyd’s granddaughter, KimWhen Lloyd was in the Navy, Dorothy berly, takes after Dorothy, according to the moved to Richmond, Va., with her mother, Vaccarellis. sisters, and daughter, Sandy. Sandy was The Vaccarellis celebrated 68 years tonine months when Lloyd went into the gether on February 27.

Navy.

“Don’t get old,” Lloyd concluded.

After he finished with the Navy, they

Honor Society celebrated French culture

RUMSON BOROUGH – Inside the cafeteria, Rumson-Fair Haven French Honor Society members stood with their national displays sharing the cultures and delicious foods of French speaking countries.

Outside, the first snowflakes of yet another snowstorm began to fall, and they piled up so heavily during the night that school was cancelled the Sarah Delaney (l) and Morgan Benney serve Monext day. But, at Une Nuit roccan cuisine and mint tea in their authentic cosFrancophone, the feeling tumes at Une Nuit Francophone.–Photo courtesy RFHRHS was almost equatorial as displays featuring French Students in the Moroccan area wore speaking countries such as Tunisia, Mo- beautiful costumes that were brought home rocco, Madagascar and Haiti reflected the by Assassi from that country. They poured tropical weather of those nations. sweet mint tea and served authentic tagine “The event was a great success, even and couscous. Belgium was represented by with the imminent snow storm. Students Belgian carrots, and chocolate mousse and enjoyed tasting the authentic foods and crepes exemplified French cuisine. All in learning about various francophone cul- attendance enjoyed learning about French tures,” French Honor Society advisor speaking nations located all over the world.

Rebecca Assassi said.

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There is more to St. Patrick’s Day

than green beer, snakes and parades

By MATTHEW R. LINDEROTH Correspondent

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they planned to convert the Druid population.

In the middle of March, Americans love to break out from the winter doldrums and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with parades, green beer and “Kiss Me, I’m Irish” buttons. But how much do you really know about the holiday. Below are some interesting facts and tidbits about the March 17th holiday.

34 million Americans have Irish ancestry. That is nine times higher than the population of Ireland, which is 4.1 million.

Irish is the second highest reported ancestry in America. Twelve percent of Americans claim to be Irish. In Massachusetts, that number jumps to 24 percent - the highest in the nation.

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the highest number of leaves found on a clover was 14.

On any given day, 5.5 million pints of Guinness stout are sold worldwide; on St. Patrick’s Day, the number more than doubles to 13 million pints.

Who was Saint Patrick?

Did you know St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated on March 17, because it is the day St. Patrick died?

St. Patrick’s given name was Patrick Maewyn and he was born in Britain to a wealthy pagan family.

St. Patrick, at the age of 16, was kidnapped and brought to Ireland. It was there that he had a dream where God spoke to him and told him to leave Ireland. He eventually made his way back to Britain where he had another dream telling him to return to Ireland as a missionary.

For the next 20 years, St. Patrick studied Christianity, first in France then Germany.

In 432, Pope Celestine bequeathed upon St. Patrick the title of bishop. St. Patrick and 24 followers returned to Ireland where

No snakes in Ireland Many myths have sprung up around St. Patrick. After his death sometime around 461, he was largely forgotten, but over the centuries folklore has interwoven itself into the story of St. Patrick.

Did St. Patrick drive every snake out of Ireland? No, he did not. It is true, snakes do not exist in Ireland today, but they never did. Ireland is an island and snakes could not migrate across the cold waters that surround it.

Lucky four-leaf clover Are four leaf clovers lucky? Yes and no.

There are an estimated 10,000 three clovers for every one four leaf clover. So if you find one, you must be lucky.

Why is the clover an integral part of St. Patrick’s Day? The clover was used by St Patrick to convert the Druids. The Druids believed in triads, which were sayings, broken into threes that were designed to help each member live their life and the three-leaf clover represented it. St. Patrick explained to the Druids that in fact they were correct. The three-leaf clover was a religious symbol, but it did not represent the triads. Instead, it represented the Trinity: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Are you making the right fashion statement?

The Irish flag is green, white and orange.

Green symbolizes the southern part of the country and is worn by Ireland’s Catholics.

Orange represents the northern part of the country and is worn by Ireland’s Protestants. White symbolizes the unity between north and south.

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Satisfy your Sugarush at Red Bank’s new treat shop

By MATTHEW R. LINDEROTH Correspondent

RED BANK BOROUGH – The newlyopened Sugarush, at 37 East Front Street in Red Bank, just steps from Riverview Medical Center, will dazzle you with their confectionary delights.

In fact, Jesse Bello-Paseka, a Middletown native and part owner of Sugarush, has been featured on the Food Network’s “Hometown Challenge.” Along with Chris Paseka, who has worked for the past 11 years at Disney Motion Pictures, the duo turn out all types of baked goods, from the whimsically designed to classic treats that are sure to please.

Paseka and Bello-Paseka began their baking careers on a small scale, baking cakes and cupcakes for their friends. And

as a testament to their skill, because who is more honest than your friends, Paseka and Bello-Paseka’s friends told them “they had a good thing.” Unfortunately, at the time, Paseka was working in commercial theatre and at Disney Motion Pictures on shows and movies like “Wicked,” “Billy Elliot,” and “Wall-E,” where he planned parties and special events. Meanwhile, Bello-Paseka was working as an independent party planner and creating customized cakes.

Over the next three years, the pair always kept the idea of opening their own shop alive, perfecting their recipes and refining what exactly their business will be.

On January 30, the plan came to fruition.

With Pasquale Menna, the mayor of Red Bank, on hand to cut the ribbon, Sugarush officially opened for business.

If the board game Candyland could come

Red Bank Mayor Pasquale Menna cuts the ribbon during the grand opening celebration at Sugarush.–Matthew R. Linderoth to life, Sugarush is what it would look like.

In addition to custom cakes, the store sells cupcakes, candy and cake pops. Perhaps their most unique product is their “naked cupcake.” It is a plain cupcake that you can turn into any delicious treat you want from the wide assortment of toppings and icings.

Having a party or a wedding? Let Sugarush set up their cupcake bar and let your

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guest choose their favorite flavor of cake, icing and topping.

Sugarush wants to support the community as well. Each month, they donate a portion of their profit to charity. In February, they supported Lunch Break in Red Bank and in March they will be supporting St. Jude’s Children Hospital.

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BarterPays! Gives Central Jersey Businesses New Buying Power in a Sluggish Economy

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f cash is king, barter is queen.

The number of businesses participating in barter exchanges is at an alltime high. In today’s tough economy, virtually every business has excess capacity in one form or another. New Jersey’s leading barter exchange since 1993, the BarterPays! Network has close to 750 active, local business-owners participating today.

A barter network is a referral-magnet.

BarterPays! is like a triple-shot espresso, giving businesses that extra boost. And, in this economy, that’s no small feat. A barter network is set up to facilitate round-robin trading. Businesses find ease and flexibility of bartering with hundreds of different businesses that participate in the Network.

Members earn barter dollars when they sell their goods and services, and pay for purchases with their barter dollars.

Recently, a member got married, and she turned to the BarterPays!

Network for upscale catering, rentals, award-winning photography, floral décor, wedding favors, wedding cake, and more. She went straight to the BarterPays! vendors first. To pay for her wedding, she earned barter dollars by servicing lots of new clients who she met through the BarterPays! Network.

BarterPays! members deal with each other like in a typical credit card transaction. They carry a BarterPays! credit card when dining at the popular restaurants, including Metropolitan in Freehold and Teak in Red Bank, and pay for their meal and drinks with barter dollars debited from their BarterPays! account.

BarterPays! earns its revenues by collecting a small commission. And this year they created a brand new marketing

membership program that has absolutely no costs to participate!

BarterPays! and its fivemember team, informally called the “barter gals,” serve as business matchmakers for their members. Faye Alba, the director of BarterPays! shares, “We’re so confident about the quality of our membership, that we offer a member guarantee of complete satisfaction in the BarterPays! Network – or we’ll exchange the barter dollars! No other barter exchange has this confidence in the quality of its program.”

Longtime member Bill Cowley of Cowley’s Termite & Pest Control shares his experience: “Most recently, through BarterPays!, we began working with a marketing communications firm. We’ve expanded our presence in Central Jersey because of our new hire, paying for her services with barter dollars. Bar-

terPays! has allowed us access to top-notch marketing expertise without any cash outlay. And we use BarterPays! for other business expenses too: we hired a BarterPays! accounting firm, and purchase signage wraps on our trucks.

Our annual holiday office party is celebrated at BarterPays! banquet facilities. The benefits of joining BarterPays! has far exceeded my expectations.”

For more information about BarterPays! or to apply for membership, please call (732) 364-4614 or visit www.barterpays.com.

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THEATER REVIEW

‘A Thousand Clowns’

By MICHELLE TUCHOL Correspondent “You have to own your days.�

The words of Murray Burns resonated at the Two River Theater on opening night of Herb Gardner’s “A Thousand Clowns.�

The production gives insight into the mind of Burns, as well as everyone that comes into contact with him.

Burns (Michael Nathanson), is a slightly off the wall, unemployed scriptwriter with a big imagination. His highly intelligent 12-year-old nephew, Nick (Matthew Gumley), has been living with him in a cluttered one-bedroom apartment since his mother dropped him off years prior. Since then, the odd couple play off each other, displaying wit and whim.

The light-hearted tone disappears when a couple from child services knocks on the door and immediately begins prying into the life of the Burnses without much help from Murray. As Nick makes an attempt to show that his uncle’s world has given him an enriched childhood, Murray sabotages any chance of keeping his nephew by addressing the situation with uncooperative jokes.

Albert Amundson (Brad Heberlee), the straight-laced, no-fooling representative of child

services, grows tired of Murray’s hijinks and dismisses the case. His counterpart, Sandra Markowitz (Crystal Finn), finds the Burnses endearing and stays with them to find a solution.

Murray understands that in order to keep Nick, he must find a job and maintain a quality of life suitable for a child. But thoughts of working for people who can’t appreciate a creative mind leave him unable to justify any kind of employment.

It’s only after encouragement from Sandra, who finds herself falling for Murray, that he bites the bullet and asks for help from his brother, Arnold (Lou Liberatore).

Although Arnold makes every effort to help his brother, Murray seems to fudge an opportunity to resume work with “Chuckles the Chipmunk,� a TV personality played by Leo Herman (Nick Sullivan).

All seems lost after a heated debate with Arnold and a misinterpretation of what’s really funny about “Chuckles.� But the dilemma concerning Nick and the possibility that he will grow up without the gusto of a free spirit makes Murray change his ways.

The characters have serious passion for what they do. It’s something that is noticeably different about the 1965 film adaptation. As in the original 1962 Broadway hit, the audience must

l-r: Matthew Gumley (Nick Burns) and Michael Nathanson (Murray Burns). –Photo courtesy Two River Theater Co. rely on the actors’ facial expressions, tone of voice and movement on one stage without the aid of excessive score, or background music, to set the tone.

No, there weren’t any clowns present—at least, not any with dramatic makeup or oversized shoes. The clowns in director Davis McCullum’s production are all those who make up the story.

It’s Murray, who doesn’t take anything seriously.

It’s Herman, whose main goal is for people to like him. And it’s Markowitz, who gives undivided attention to those in need, without recognizing the needs of her own. “A Thousand Clowns� is a well-received play that pays tribute to the shifting values of 1960’s conservatism and the strides that everyone makes in order to find their role in life.

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Remember ... Members do business with members! Please welcome – and patronize – these new members!

We’re saving this space for you! Call 732-741-0055 or log on to www.emacc.org to find out how you can become a member and start getting benefits for your business today!

ACTION PEST CONTROL Pest Control Services Michael Russell 136 Highway 35 Red Bank, NJ 07701 (800)920-0906 www.actionpestcontrol.com ALIVENWELL LLC ISAGENIX DISTRIBUTOR Health Products Sharlene May PO Box 454 Oceanport, NJ 07757 (732)923-1096 BLUE PAW NATION Pet Products Angela Harris PO Box 603 Middletown, NJ 07748 (732)768-7094 www.bluepawnation.com BRIGHT ALTERNATIVES Energy Conservation/Consulting Angus McDougal 68 First Avenue Atlantic Highlands, NJ 07716 (732)872-7483 www.brightalt.com CAMELIA PORTRAITS Photography / Photographers Lucy Menshov 116 Broad St Red Bank, NJ 07701 (732)784-7278 www.cameliaportraits.com

COMPUTER INSIGHT LEARNING CENTER Computer Services Elizabeth Honig 23 Main Street Eatontown, NJ 07701 (732)544-1125 www.computerinsight.com EXPERT SUPPORT LLC Website / IT Support Egidio Enea 882 Lynnwood Avenue Brick, NJ 08723 (732)284-6900 www.expert-support.com FESTIVAL FAVORITES Restaurants / Caterers / Delis Ed Bannon 293 Spring Street, 15D Red Bank, NJ 07701 (908)565-4435

JOSEPH L MARINO, CPA Accounting and Tax Services Joseph Marino 64 Cherry Tree Farm Road Middletown, NJ 07748 (732)598-1747 www.jlmarinocpa.com

REGAL POINTE Retirement & Assisted Living Facilities Tara Demyanovich 1800 Highway 35 South Middletown, NJ 07748 (732)957-0083 www.regalpointe.com

KEVIN MURPHY REALTY Real Estate Kevin Murphy 697 Broad Street Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 (732)741-3030 www.kevinmurphyrealty.com

SCHOOL OF ROCK Music Jessie Aquino 52 Monmouth Street Red Bank, NJ 07701 (732)290-0666 www.schoolofrock.com

KNAPP, TRIMBOLI & PRUSINOWSKI, LLC Attorneys / Law Firms StephenTrimboli 210 Park Avenue, Suite 302 Florham Park, NJ 07932 (973)660-1095 www.ktplawyers.com

SHRED-IT Business Services Michael Kiernan 81 Walsh Drive Parsippany, NJ 07054 (973)244-7473 www.shredit.com

HIGH EXPOSURE AERIAL ADVERTISING Advertising/Marketing Brett Hinderer 675 Woodbine Decinque Woodbine, NJ 08270 (609)861-4111 www.usairads.com

MONMOUTH TOTAL HEALTH CARE Physical Therapy Michael Duong 285 Parker Road Eatontown, NJ 07724 (732)229-3344

INITEXT, LLC Advertising/Marketing Steve Mariani 1 Harding Road Red Bank, NJ 07701 (866)717-7070 www.initext.com

PATCH.COM Marketing/PR Lori Joyce 16 Acker Drive Middletown, NJ 07748 (732)856-7712 www.patch.com

VEHICLE MANAGEMENT SERVICES Charitable Auto Donation Program Steve Clapp 528 Morristown Road Matawan, NJ 07747 (888)395-3955 www.vehiclemanagementservices.com

JACQUES EXCLUSIVE CATERERS Restaurants / Caterers / Delis Frank Mamola 403 Highway 36 Hazlet, NJ 07730 (732)495-2600 www.jacquescatering.com

QDOBA MEXICAN GRILL Restaurants / Caterers / Delis Alesia Williams-Murray 1130 Broad Street Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 (732)389-0712 www.qdoba.com

WHEN DOODY CALLS Pet Waste Services Mary Ellen Levy 20 Mills Avenue Pt. Monmouth, NJ 07758 (732)495-7667 www.whendoodycalls.com

TRINITY AND THE POPE Restaurants / Caterers / Delis Marilyn Schlossbach 649 Mattison Avenue Asbury Park, NJ 07712 (732)807-3435 www.trinityandthepope.com

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Calendar Event Listing cont.

Saturday March 19

HIGHLANDS 9th Annual Highlands St. Patrick’s Day Parade Bay Ave, Highlands; 2:00pm Contact: 732-291-4713

Monday March 21 ASBURY PARK Staged Reading: Revision Theater The Showroom 6:30pm - 7:30pm 708 Cookman Ave, Asbury Park Contact: 732-502-0472 The Importance of Being, presented by Revision Theater

Thursday March 24 ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS Dine & Discuss Merger Julia’s Restaurant 6:00pm - 8:00pm 91 First Avenue Contact: 732-872-1007 Atlantic Highlands Library presents Meet the Author: Sanjay Sanghoee. The author will discuss his first novel, Merger. Reservations required.

Friday March 25 RED BANK Magical Dance Performance: The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Count Basie Theater 10:00am - 12:00pm 99 Monmouth Street Contact: 732-842-9000 The Wonderful Wizard of Oz presented by Company of Dance Arts.

Students and Seniors only.

Tickets: Students - $4, Seniors - $5 RED BANK Reckless Steamy Night: Eryn Shewell “Unplugged” The Women’s Club Red Bank 8:30pm - 11:00pm 164 Broad Street Light refreshments are provided. Benefits the Red Bank Woman’s Club, and the Jersey Shore Jazz & Blues Foundation scholarship funds. $10 suggested donation.

Saturday March 26 RED BANK

Magical Dance Performance: The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Count Basie Theater 3:00pm - 5:00pm 99 Monmouth Street Contact: 732-842-9000 The Wonderful Wizard of Oz presented by Company of Dance Arts. Tickets: Orchestra and Balcony - $35, Upper Balcony $15. Also playing on Sunday March 26.

SEA BRIGHT Casino Night McLoone’s 7:00pm - 11:00pm 816 Ocean Ave Contact: 732-842-8000, ext. 236 Tickets: $100. Includes a dinner buffet, $50 in casino chips and entertainment. It also features a 50/50 drawing, complimentary soda bar and a cash bar. To benefit The Source, Red Bank Regional’s School Based Youth Services Program.

Tuesday March 29 RED BANK Educational Matinee: Candida Two River Theater 9:00am - 12:00pm 99 Monmouth Street Contact: 732-345-1400, ext. 814 katecordaro@trtc.org Grades 9-12, part of Two River Theater Education Series

Thursday March 31 ASBURY PARK GSFF Special Screening for Kids Paramount Theater 10:30am - 1:00pm 1300 Ocean Avenue Contact: 877-908-7050 FREE - Advanced Reservations Only. A screening of age-appropriate Independent Films for kids, grades 5th-8th. Feel free to bring a bag lunch. Tables and chairs will be provided.

ASBURY PARK GSFF Benefit Screening: Journey of Hope Paramount Theater 7:30pm - 9:30pm 1300 Ocean Avenue Contact: 877-908-7050 Screening of a Journey of Hope to benefit Joe Leone’s L’Aquila Earthquake Relief Fund. A reception to follow the screening.

Community Messenger 21

February 2011

OUR CHARIT Y

Kick Cancer Overboard’s free cruises The mission of the non-profit organization Kick Cancer Overboard is to give away as many free cruises as possible to people whose lives have been affected by cancer.

During this annual cruise, their main concern is not how to pay for the next medical bill, but whether to play bingo, get a massage or go sing karaoke all night long.

Kick Cancer Overboard (KCO) is the brainchild of Ted Friedli, the owner of Excel Travel in Long Branch. Last May, he ran the idea by his friends, DonnaLyn Giegerich and Tom Zapcic, Red Bank, president of Heritage Benefits Group LLC, who both “jumped on board� immediately to help grow KCO. The response from the local community was tremendous and within days Friedli was able to established a committee with Art Castellano (race director of N.J. Marathon); Robert Schillberg, Esq.; Linda Pressler, CPA; Carol Feldman, branch manager, Jersey Central Bank; and Cliff Moore, owner of Keyport IHOP and Community Publications.

Also, you cannot forget Giegerich and

Zapcic, the inspiration behind it all. DonnaLyn is a professional speaker and national spokesmodel, insurance entrepreneur and creator of www.donnalyn.org, a global advocacy site to empower others. She is a rare sarcoma survivor and caregiver in this courageous cancer couple’s journey elevating what’s possible with “less fear, more fun.�

Because of the overwhelming support from many local businesses, Kick Cancer Overboard has been able to sponsor six people, and offer them a well-deserved break for at least five days. You can view their stories at www.kickcanceroverboard. org.

According to Friedli, there’s more good news as two more recipients will be announced at the next event.

The actual cruise will leave from Cape Liberty on May 21 for five days to Bermuda, on Royal Caribbean’s Explorer of the Seas. Prices start at $525 plus tax per person.

Friedli said it’s a numbers game: The more paying passengers KCO can book, the

Sponsorships opportunities

available for BBBS event Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Monmouth County is holding their 29th Annual Bowl for Kids' Sake bowling tournament from March 4 to March 6.

Businesses can sponsor a lane for only $250 and bowlers can sign up for only $100 to bowl. The event provides great exposure for your business and great publicity all while supporting a great charity through a full tax-deductible donation.

By participating as a sponsor, you and

your business will benefit from exposure through media campaigns and promotional efforts directed toward the supporters of BBBSMMC. We have a number of sponsorship levels and you can select the one that best meets your needs and be certain that your support will not only benefit your company but children in your community.

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more people they can sponsor to travel for free. This way, everybody wins; the cancer fighters get a break, the sponsors get great exposure at the events, and the people that choose to cruise, will get a phenomenal group rate. “Our goal is simple, to fill the ship with cancer fighter and survivors, their friends, family and supporters – and celebrate life,�

Friedli concluded.

Kick Cancer Overboard was chosen as one of 25 charities supported by the NJ Marathon. Runners can log onto www.njmarathon.org), commit to running for Kick Cancer Overboard (at a reduced rate!) and directly sponsor a person to sail for free! “If you give $1000 to a charity�, Friedli

reasons, “too often you really don’t know what happens with that money. For $879 you can sponsor a cancer fighter, get to know and truly make a difference in that person’s life! Or you can sponsor a whole family or just come to our next fundraiser for $15. Either way, we appreciate everybody’s support!�

The next KCO event (and last one before the cruise) is scheduled for 3/1/11 at 630pm at the Middletown Arts Center. It will be a combination Expo, Networking and Tropical Fashion Show. For more information on sponsorships and the upcoming event, please go to www.kickcanceroverboard.org or call 800 392 3588.

BBBS PROFILE

Jamie Turner Jamie Turner, a resident of Sea Bright, is a former school principal so becoming a Big Sister in the BBBSMMC program was a great fit for her.

She is also the mother of two sons so she relishes the time she spends with her Little Sister. Recently, they shared a “day of beauty� where Jamie painted her Little’s nails, curled her hair and added a touch of make-up which was fun for both of them.

Activities they have shared so far include playing and picnicking at county parks, swimming, movies, origami, creating a photo book together of family pictures and playing tennis which Jamie is teaching to her Little Sister.

Jamie and her Little Sister recently attended the BBBSMMC annual Holiday Party and it was obvious to all that this Big and Little are a great match. Jamie is happy to be a part of the program. “The Big Brothers Big Sisters organization and caring case managers were a huge help in getting our relationship off to a great start,“ she said.

In just four to six hours per month you can make a big difference in a child’s life. To find out how to become a volunteer mentor visit www.bbbsmmc.org or call 732-544-2224.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Monmouth & Middlesex Counties is a donor supported volunteer agency that is currently serving over 400 children through one-to-one mentoring. The agency has over 40 children waiting to be matched with a caring Big Brother of Sister.

Jamie Turner

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March 2011

PET CORNER Where’s Moose? Pet owners: Think ‘green’ this St. Patrick’s Day

By JO SCHLOEDER Columnist On St. Patrick’s Day, we seem to be surrounded by green edibles green bagels, green cabbage, green eggs, even green beer. But green doesn’t just have to refer to color—it can also refer to how naturally products are made.

The makers of Nylabone®, the leader in responsible pet care for over 50 years®, want to remind pet owners they can “think green” this St. Patty’s Day by giving their pets natural, “green” foods and chews like Nylabone’s great tasting Happy-Time Edible Chews. Made in the USA, long-lasting Happy Time Edible Chews are made with real chicken and no added sugar, salt or artificial floors.

These natural, edible chews keep dogs busy and help prevent destructive chewing while allowing pet parents to give their dogs a natural, healthful product.

Also check out Nylabone’s Healthy

Living Dog Chews, which contain green ingredients like CoQ10, chlorophyll, pomegranate, pumpkin, flaxseed, and other yummy natural components. They are great sources of fiber and natural antioxidants and also promote good dental health.

And don’t forget: though all those green human foods may look festive, they can make Fido very sick. Keep pets away from people foods all year long, and especially food that’s been colored green with food dye. The same goes for green beer. Alcohol of any kind is bad for pets, and the green stuff is just asking for trouble.

One more word about going green: Many shelters take donations of used bedding, towels and pillows. Before throwing these items away, check with your local shelter to see if you can recycle your used linens to line the bed of a shelter animal.

Adorable Adoptables Moose Moore has gotten free and is roaming around the Navesink River area. Do you recognize where Moose is? Help us find Moose by emailing his location to pets@mycommunitypublications.com. Please put “Where’s Moose?” in the subject line.

Everyone who responds will receive a “Where’s Moose Moore?” Tshirt, courtesy of Community Publications and Market ME Printing in Hazlet. One random correct response will also receive a special prize.

This month, the prize is candy and a $25 gift certificate to Suzi’s Sweet Shoppe (see ad on Page 6). Clues can be found on the Facebook pages of Community Publications and Moose Moore.

Last month:

The grand prize winner, Gina Ricciardi, knew that Moose was standing in Riverside Gardens Park.

JACK & JILL are brother and sister Chihuahua mixes who were originally found together as strays. They were adopted and sadly their guardian passed away. Jack & Jill are 2 years old. They are an adorable duo, and need to go to their new home together.

KONA & NALU are brother and sister gorgeous "teenagers" who were adopted as very young kittens. Their mom is no longer able to care for them. Kona and Nalu are now 8-month-old playful, loving, cuddly, and frisky kitties who will give any new family tons of happiness.

If you are interested in adopting any of our adorable animals, please call the Homeward Bound Adoption Center on 732-542-5962.

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KID’S CORNER

COLOR ME IN

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PUZZLES Across

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1 _________ Park is where local bands and vendors gather for 4th of July. (9)

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4 Red Bank was once known as "__________ Bank". (4)

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5 "Kaboomfest" is held at __________ Park.

(6) 6 Red Bank got its' name from the color of the __________ in the banks of the river that makes up its' border.

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7 This borough was once known as "Black Point". (6) 7

Down 1 Red Bank is home of __________ Hospital.

(9) 2 The Navesink River servs as an _________.

(7) 3 Rumson was formed from portions of ________ Township.

(10) 4

Puzzle answers on Page 31

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New Year’s networking event a success

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Organizers Chris Fotache (right) and Rosa Davis (second from right) pose with guests on the red carpet outside their recent networking event in Red Bank.–Photo courtesy MTC Photography

By CHRIS FOTACHE Special to the Community Messenger RED BANK BOROUGH – On January 18, Jersey Media Network and Bella Mystique organized a networking event in Red Bank, under the motto “Kick off the New Year in style!”

The event was called a “New Year’s Resolution Business Networking Party and Red Carpet Event” and was meant to gather together local entrepreneurs and help them establish new connections. Almost 250 people participated, representing small businesses, stores and restaurants from Monmouth County and beyond.

Some public officials also attended, in order to get the pulse of the local business community, including the mayors of Red Bank (Pasquale Menna) and Atlantic Highlands (Fred Rast) and Monmouth County Deputy Freeholder Director John Curley.

“This event was phenomenal. Red Bank rocked on a blistery wet Tuesday night in January,” Menna said. “The organizers created a joyful warm and welcoming energy level for all participants from all over the region. I am so grateful that we were able to host it at Taste.

This proves that with creativity our people respond to gathering in our entertainment places to support our local economy.”

The businesses that attended the event reflected a broad spectrum of activities, from real estate and financial services to healthcare and home improvement. All the local Chambers of Commerce were heavily represented.

“I enjoyed my time at the event held in Red Bank. As the executive director of the Northern Monmouth Chamber of Commerce it was the perfect venue to introduce other business owners to our chamber,” Paul Morris said.

Going further than a regular business meeting, this event featured a red carpet to showcase local entrepreneurs. Guests seemed to appreciate this twist, taking hundreds of photos with the sponsors and their new business contacts.

“The DJ and the band were great and the red carpet was an added bonus and huge success,” Deborah Weiss, of Keller Williams/Jersey Shore, said.

“This networking event stood out amongst the traditional business card exchanges we

typically see and attend as business owners,” Cynthia Hertlik, of RE/MAX Generations, said.

“More proof that Red Bank and the surrounding area is the place to be!”

The organizers were very grateful to all the sponsors who made this possible: Mike Grieco from Cat Limousine, Anthony Beshara from Bella Vista Country Club, Bernice Lopez from Affinity Federal Credit Union, Manny Carabel from MTC Photography, Vin Gopal from Community Publications, Deborah Weiss from Keller Williams/Jersey Shore, Donna Davis from Atlantic Eye Physicians, Cliff Moore from Keyport IHOP and Peter VanNortwick from VanNortwick Properties.

Having started at 6 p.m., the event was still going on more than four hours later, as guests were enjoying the combination of business networking and party atmosphere.

“It was more like a party night out and everyone was having lots of fun. We met some really nice people,” Clem Lisitski from Primerica said. “Hope this turns our to be a new year tradition for us to all get together again.”

There were a few more special guests in the audience, including Kim Granatell (Kim G) from the TV show “Real Housewives of NJ,” who was very popular around the red carpet.

Also, local artists A.Lewins Band came and performed a few songs toward the end of the evening.

The guests also enjoyed winning a variety of prizes donated by local businesses, including a Cancun vacation from Cathy Ruggiero of Rovia/WorldVentures, an AmEx gift card from Cynthia Hertlik of ReMax, chocolate from Suzi’s Sweet Shoppe, massage sessions from A Kneaded Vacation, free membership to the Red Bank YMCA or gift certificates to Tommy’s Café, Penelope Boutique, Sweetest Sin and much more. The 150-pound cake from Kimmee Masi at Confections of a Rockstar was also a big hit.

The event was the first collaboration between Jersey Media Network (a web development and online marketing company - www.jersey-net. com) and Bella Mystique (a fashion boutique in downtown Red Bank - www.bellamystique. com). They are planning more events in the following months.

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28 Community Messenger

March 2011

Couch potato to 5K begins March 21 CareOne at King James is proud to announce the launch of CareOne Next Step Home, a first of its kind specialized home preparation plan aimed at assisting patients and their families to achieve a safe and optimal discharge from the inpatient medical rehabilitation setting to home and community.

Home training focus areas include: • • • • • • • • •

Diagnosis Education Patient Safety Therapy Services Discharge Summary Packet Community Resource Directory Understanding “AfterDischarge Services” Therapeutic Day Passes Home Simulation Therapy Community Re-entry

Participates from last year’s Couch Potato to 5K program pose during one of their races.–Photo courtesy Charlie Hoffmann

To learn more about CareOne’s Next Step Home Program or any of the services offered in CareOne’s after-hospital-care recovery units, please contact the Admissions Office at 732.291.3400, CareOne at King James, 1040 State Highway 36, Atlantic Highlands, NJ 07716

Weichert, Realtors Agents of the Month Kevin Gore Top Listing Agent for January Robert “Bob” Levenson Top Sales Agent for January

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By KAITLIN SEVERINI Correspondent FAIR HAVEN BOROUGH — Starting March 21, the Fair Haven Parks and Recreation department kicks off its second Couch Potato to 5K program, a low-key eight- to 12-week training regimen for adults looking to get back into shape or run a race.

“It’s an opportunity for people to run with others,” Charlie Hoffmann, the director of Parks and Recreation and leader of Couch Potato to 5K, said. “And the program helps people get in the habit of running.”

For the program, Hoffmann emphasizes injury prevention and stretching, and starts off slowly. Participants run for under a minute their first time working out, allowing them to build up their strength and endurance over time. After two to three months of running two nights a week, the group signs up for a run, usually a 5K. “We meet at McCarter Pond and run on the streets of Fair Haven,” Hoffmann said.

“Every week we have a different section of town that we run through.”

Last year’s group consisted of 14 Fair Haven men and women ranging in age from early-30s to late 50s and of varying athletic abilities. Some participants hadn’t run in 20 years; some had never run at all. The majority of the group ran in a 5K race after the program concluded.

“People were crying [after the race],” Hoffmann said. “They brought their families. It was cool.”

For just $32, any Fair Haven adult can join the program. It is an inexpensive way for residents to get into shape, improve their health, meet new people and build camaraderie with their neighbors.

“It’s really laid back,” Hoffmann said.

“And hopefully [the participants] will still be running 20 years down the road.”

The registration deadline for the Couch Potato to 5K program is March 14. To sign up or to get more information, contact Charlie Hoffmann at 732-747-0241 ext.

216 or visit www.fairhavennj.org.

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March 2011

Community Messenger

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30 Community Messenger

March 2011

Winter session of Real Results is well underway at Eastpointe

By REBECCA KOPP Special to the Community Messenger Snow, ice and bad weather has not stopped this group of Real Results participants from getting involved in the program! The session had a delayed start due to Mother Nature, but on January 19, seventeen members began their journey to health. This session of the all-inclusive health program runs for eight weeks and participants are well on their way to making positive changes.

Real Results participants have been working with Eastpointe Health and Fitness trainers receiving the benefits of customized one-on-one and group training, as well as nutritional counseling, weekly motivational meetings and lectures, all designed to help each individual achieve personal goals and lifestyle changes.

The program’s track record has shown that it does work. First started in 2005, the program is run three times throughout the year and focuses not only on weight loss but on improving overall health through balanced nutrition and exercise.

As a result of this approach, participants see a reduction in other health indicators

such as body measurements and body fat.

The average weight loss over the 8-week period is 12 pounds for each person successfully completing the program.

Since the program’s inception, over 250 participants have taken the journey.

Many of these members have gone on to maintain their results; some even join subsequent programs to continue their momentum. The goals of this group vary greatly and range from improving overall health and stamina to increasing energy levels to losing weight.

So what is in store for participants over the next several weeks? Trainers are currently working with them in several teams where they receive the benefits of customized personal training. They are also attending ongoing nutritional counseling, discussion group sessions, weekly motivational meetings and lectures all designed to help each individual achieve personal goals and lifestyle changes.

“Past and current Real Results participants have said that what makes this program different from other programs is the amount of support and encouragement they received,” Kim Garrity, nutritionist and program administrator, said. “They really feel like they are part of a group and

that makes all the difference for them.”

If you would like to keep track of the group’s progress, you can do so via the nutrition blog on our website www.EastpointeHealthandFitness.com. You can see weekly status updates from the program.

It is never too late to begin!

Just because you missed the start of the January session does not mean you have to wait for the next session to begin.

Individual nutrition plans and customized training programs are available now

and can set the foundation for the next program in April. Interested? Want to get started? Register for your free consultation by going on our website and submitting an inquiry on the nutrition page or giving us a call.

For a full description of the Real Results program including future dates and a complete list of what is included, again, call Eastpointe at 732-872-6595 or visit our website, www.EastpointeHealthandFitness.com.

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YOUR SAY What’s your lucky charm?

“Luke O'Malley.”

– Sandy O’Malley

“My kids.”

– Jenny Cervantes

“My family, because without their support all the time I don't think I could be able to do as much as I do and have such a good life.”

– Rebecca Kane Highlands

“I don't think a specific object can bring you luck. Luck is luck. You're lucky if you get it.”

– Raul Cruz Highlands

“Rabbit’s foot.”

– Bob Adamec Highlands

“Trinity Knot, both religious and Irish.”

– Kathy Guerin

“Freckles the dog.”

– Sherry Ruby Adamec Highlands

“Gatsby, my cat.”

– Gloria Miller Highlands

PUZZLE ANSWERS Puzzles on Page 24-25 O F H I B U L I W

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OPINION The truth about alarm system installers Safety and security done by well-known large around your house is a major companies. Often they have problem. In order to protect their own central station. A yourself, you should have an central station monitors ongoing relationship with the alarms 24 hours per day. police department. You However, when they should advise them of any come to your home, you find potential threat level or probout that the $199 only prolems that may exist in your vides one or two magnetic life that could cause your contacts on doors plus a keyhouse or your family to be pad. In addition, they try to targeted. sell you 24-hour monitoring A good example of someof your alarm system for thing you should let your hundreds of dollars per year.

By local police department They try to lock you into a FREDERICK RAST know of is if you are the six- or ten-year monitoring owner or senior manager of a company and service contract. They will also use the you have recently had major layoffs or you $199 gimmick to get a sales visit, who then had to fire individuals that were extremely will talk you into buying a good quality sysagitated or threatening. Another example tem for thousands of dollars. would be if you are a noted entertainment The problem with all of this is, if an figure living “very low-key,” with only a alarm installer has his own central station, few people knowing who you are in town, it is costing him little for someone to monyour police department should know who itor, other than the operation of that central you are and exactly where you live. stations. Considering that a large alarm Other examples are: If you have a fine company might have thousands of cusart collection, a large weapon collection or tomers, that yearly monitoring fee is a large things that would be attractive to criminals windfall for their company. If an alarm inand make your house or your family a po- staller from a smaller company does not tential target for theft or armed robbery, you have their own monitoring station, they should be in contact with the police depart- have to pay approximately $100 per year ment. Your police department will keep only, per client to that central station. everything very confidential, but will keep As an example, if they sell you a contract a closer eye on you, your family and your for $399 a year to monitor, they receive home. $299 for doing nothing other than having Also, the police department should be you sign up. Multiply that by hundreds or notified if you are planning to go on vaca- thousands of customers, and that’s a signiftion so they can be more diligent in their icant windfall for them. If a large company spot patrols of your home. Most police de- has its own monitoring station, all that you partments have a system in place, which al- pay goes to them. Take just 200 customers lows them to come and check your house, (which is a very small number), multiply doors and property while you are away. that by $399 per year, multiply that by a They generate a report each time it is done. locked-in, six-year contract and the comAnother consideration is if you are a pany is taking in $478,800. Most alarm inhigh-profile individual and you have your stallers have a thousand or more monitoring own private security, either bodyguards or customers. What you find when the alarm drivers that pick you up at your home. Be company representative comes to your sure to let the police department know that house to sell you a $199 system is that such this is authorized. In the event a patrol iden- a system will not truly protect your home tifies a strange person sitting outside your or family. home, they should know in advance that it They will also tell you that in addition to could be your driver or bodyguard, espe- your burglar alarm, you should have a fire cially in the early morning hours. alarm, which is true. Keep in mind that a One thing you can do to protect yourself good quality alarm system, installed by an and your family at home is to install an experienced alarm installer, will cost you alarm system in your house. Unfortunately, between $1,500 and $3,000 for an averagethe alarm business is filled with a lot of peo- sized house, depending on the extras you ple who will take advantage of those who want. For that sum, you “own the equipdon’t understand alarm systems. You see ment” that is installed in your home. A gimmick advertisements; “$199 to alarm good quality alarm installer will provide a your house” as an example. Often this is guarantee to support the equipment that he

Safe and Sound

installs for a 1-2 year period of time.

A good alarm system does not have false alarms. A good alarm system allows you to have a perimeter protection system, with a back-up interior system and panic devices.

You should be able to sleep at night with your alarm system on. If you like to sleep with your windows open, your alarm installer can position the windows to permit the windows to be partially open with the alarm system in the armed mode. They will ensure that a panic system is installed in the house for medical emergencies or a home invasion. The panic system should be included in all modern alarm systems at no or very little extra cost. However, you may pay a small amount for the extra portable panic devices.

Any good alarm company is going to include fire protection in your system in addition to burglar protection for the same cost. Currently, the newer alarm systems have available at a reasonably low extra cost a backup cell phone, which can be installed in your attic. This protects you in the event someone cuts your telephone lines or if there was a major storm and the telephone lines were down in the area. It allows the signal to go out wirelessly.

One thing that you should consider is that a good quality alarm company will send a qualified technician, not someone who was a used car salesman “last month.”

A good alarm installer will survey your home at no cost and make recommendations that would best protect your particular home. All of this done free of charge.

There are many do’s and don’ts in creating an alarm system. Years ago, people were afraid about putting motion detectors in their homes because they had pets that caused false alarms. Current “motion de-

tectors” are passive infrared devices. Not only does movement set them off, but it also has to be movement with a change of temperature simultaneously. Temperature changes within a room will occur based on the mass of the person or animal that is moving within the room. This means that if you had a large German shepherd, his body temperature and his movement may make it impossible for you to have motion detector in an area with a large dog roaming unlimited through the house. However, if you had a small dog or cat, a good motion detector would not be activated by this animal because their body mass and their temperature will not normally set off the alarm.

Many people have told me when I have done surveys of their homes that birds set off their motion detector. Modern motion detectors will not have that occur.

A way to compensate if you have large animal in your house, yet want additional motion detector protection is to, during the survey, find the most vulnerable spots for criminal entry and barricade the entranceway so your large dog will not have access to that most vulnerable spot.

I would like to remind all of you to keep your police department informed. Let them know that you have an alarm system in the house. Let them know if you have private security. Let them know if you’re going away for any length of time or have any special concerns or threat levels.

In future columns, I will address other security considerations on how to protect your home. We will discuss shrubbery, lighting, landscaping and many other things that will help protect your home and family.

Frederick Rast is a business owner and mayor in Atlantic Highlands.

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OPINION The hidden dangers of gifting under the Tax Act This past December, the fedwould have to pay the gift tax, eral government enacted the Tax not the recipient of the gift.

Relief, Unemployment Insurance In addition to the Reauthorization and Job Cre$1,000,000 gift, a taxpayer ation Act of 2010 (the “Tax can make the annual excluAct”). In part, the Tax Act sion gift to an unlimited numchanged the laws governing the ber of individuals without federal estate and gift tax system. reducing his $1,000,000 lifeToday, I wanted to write about time credit. For instance, Mr. the changes the Tax Act brought Smith could gift $13,000 each to the federal gift tax system and and every year to an unlimited about the interplay of the gift tax number of people without relaws and the Medicaid asset ducing his $1,000,000 lifetransfer rules. time credit.

Individuals with whom I meet If Mr. Smith gifted more By are always confused about the JOHN CALLINAN than $13,000 to any one perfederal gift tax. Most people beson, the amount that was lieve they can only gift $13,000 a year. Peo- gifted over $13,000 would reduce his ple seem to believe they will pay a tax of $1,000,000 credit proportionately. So, for some sort on the amount they gift over the instance, if Mr. Smith had gifted $23,000 to annual exclusion amount. his son, Mr. Smith’s lifetime credit against I have always told clients that this belief gift tax would have been reduced from is incorrect. The fact of the matter is, prior $1,000,000 to $990,000. to the passage of the Tax Act, each person The Tax Act did not change the annual had a $1,000,000 lifetime credit against gift exclusion amount. The Tax Act did not tax, meaning that a person could gift change the impact of gifting more than the $1,000,000 before he would have to pay gift annual exclusion amount to any one person. tax. And it is the maker of the gift who What the Tax Act did change, however, is

Legally Speaking

the amount of the lifetime credit. The Tax Act increased the lifetime credit amount from $1,000,000 to $5,000,000.

Obviously, for most of us, being able to gift $5,000,000 is simply a dream because we’d have to have $5,000,000 to give away.

And how much money would you have to have before you wanted to give away $5,000,000?

After the passage of the Tax Act, I think it is safe to say that for most Americans, the fear of paying gift tax is a non-issue. Most of us could give away every asset we own without the fear of ever having to pay gift tax.

Moreover, if you are married, you and your wife can each give away $5,000,000 without paying gift tax. So, a married couple can gift $10,000,000 without paying gift tax.

But how do the gift tax rules interplay with the Medicaid asset transfer rules? In other words, can a person gift $13,000 a year without fear that the gifts will affect his eligibility for Medicaid?

Medicaid is a health insurance program for needy individuals. Unlike most health insurance, though, Medicaid pays for long-

term care costs, such as nursing home care, assisted living care, or home health aides.

Since Medicaid is only available to needy individuals, Medicaid punishes those individuals who give away money within a fiveyear period of time prior to apply for benefits by making those individuals ineligible for Medicaid benefits.

Gift tax rules have nothing to do with Medicaid asset transfer rules. While a person can make $13,000 a year gifts to an unlimited number of individuals, each of those gifts made within the five-year period prior to applying for Medicaid benefits will count against the individual and cause him to be ineligible for Medicaid.

The bottom line is, if you’re rich, feel free to make a gift. If you’re like most of us, those gifts could come back to haunt you.

John W. Callinan is a certified elder law attorney (as certified by the National Elder Law Foundation, accredited by the American Bar Association). John has offices in Wall Twsp., Middletown, and Jamesburg.

He can be reached at 732-706-8008 or johncallinan@ optonline.net.

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