CM: Rumson • Fair Haven • Little Silver • Red Bank • Sea Bright • Locust - March 2023

Jersey First!

A DISCUSSION WITH FIRST L ADY TA MMY SNYDER MURPHY

M A RC H 202 3 RUMSON • FAIR HAVEN • LITTLE SILVER RED BANK • SEA BRIGHT • LOCUST

Circle BMW Donates $10,000 to The Stephen Siller Tunnels to Towers Foundation In Recognition of Their Most Successful Year of Giving, Circle BMW Gives Back to Local Heroes with a $10K Donation

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ircle BMW is celebrating a record-breaking year of charitable giving, totaling over $101,000 in donations.

Since their founding in 1980, Circle BMW has been committed to active participation and support of the communities they serve. As a member of the business community, Circle BMW's generous support of numerous non-profit organizations has benefited families throughout Monmouth and Ocean Counties. In the past, they have worked with more than forty different local, regional, and national organizations, associations, non-profits, and charitable organizations supporting autism, breast cancer awareness, food security, and our veterans. Exceeding $1 million donated to local charities over the last ten years, Circle BMW's commitment to giving back is a top priority.

As a strong supporter of the U.S. Military, its veterans, law enforcement and first responders, Circle BMW Founder and President Tom DeFelice regularly gives back to those who made the ultimate sacrifice and the organizations who help men and women who serve or served our country and/or our community. Recently, Circle BMW donated $10,000 to the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation. “The primary mission of the Foundation is to provide a mortgage-free home to surviving military and first responder spouses with young children. Additionally, the Foundation raises funds and builds smart homes that enable the most catastrophically injured veterans to live more independent lives.

Providing security and stability in the wake of tragedy is not only admirable but a lasting tribute to those who gave the ultimate sacrifice,” said DeFelice.

Every year the Stephen Siller Tunnels to Towers Foundation achieves the highest rating, four stars, from Charity

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Navigator, the nation’s largest and most hearing the news, he called his wife, Sally, utilized evaluator of charities. Ninety and asked her to tell his brothers he would five cents of every dollar donated goes catch up with them later. He returned to directly to their programs and those who Squad One to get his gear and then drove his truck to the entrance of the Brooklyn need them most.

“Supporting organizations such as Battery Tunnel, but it had already been The Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foun- closed for security purposes. Determined dation is one small way that we can show to carry out his duty, Stephen strapped our heartfelt gratitude to the men and 60 pounds of gear to his back and raced women who serve our country, their fam- on foot through the tunnel to the Towers ilies and the sacrifices they endure to en- where he gave his life saving others. Stesure our safety and freedom.”

DeFe"Supporting organizations such as lice added, “Circle BMW is proud to The Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers lend support to this Foundation is one small way that we can inaugural fundraisshow our heartfelt gratitude to the men er and incredibly and women who serve our country, their worthwhile organization.” families and the sacrifices they endure to The Stephen ensure our safety and freedom" Siller Tunnel to - Circle BMW Founder & President Tom DeFelice Towers Foundation was established to honor the life of Stephen Siller, a member phen was only 34 years old and left behind of the New York Fire Department assigned his wife, five children, a devoted extended to Brooklyn’s Squad One, who lost his life family and many friends. on September 11, 2001 helping others. On You can honor the sacrifices of those that fateful day, Siller had just finished who protect our community and country his shift and was on his way to play golf by supporting this organization. If you with his brothers when he got word over would like to become a donor, volunteer, his scanner of a plane hitting the North or sponsor, please reach out to info@t2t.

Tower of the World Trade Center. Upon org.

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CBA’s National Honor Society Chapter Welcomes 37 New Members The new inductees join the 27 CBA seniors who received the honor last year

The Christian Brothers Academy chapter of the National Honor Society (NHS) officially welcomed 37 new members on February 15 at the annual NHS Convocation.

Joining the 27 CBA seniors who were inducted previously, the 37 new members were accepted into this prestigious society, which is based on the pillars of Scholarship, Service, Character and Leadership. As is the tradition, Principal Neil Begley conferred the ceremonial golden tassels to each new inductee as a display of achievement.

“We gather to honor these young men who have excelled academically and contributed to the Academy with the talents of leadership, service to others, and extracurricular activities,” Begley said in his address. “Our inductees are truly well-rounded scholars and it is my honor as principal to celebrate their accomplishments.”

To be accepted into the NHS at CBA, students must have a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 91.5, obtained a minimum of 130 service hours,

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and achieved 10 school activities points, which includes involvement in CBA athletics, clubs & groups, and performing arts. Students are required to have multiple reviews and recommendations from CBA faculty and outside sources.

The newest class of inductees blew those marks far out of the water. The 37 Academy men exceeded the GPA minimum, worked an average of 143 service hours, and gained an average of 20.5 activities points. Many of the new members hold valuable leadership positions as athletic team captains, executives in clubs, camp counselors, CCD teachers and Special Olympics leads.

“You have distinguished yourselves among a student body of already high-achieving young men,” President Ross Fales remarked to the newest inductees. “The pillars of the National Honor Society closely embody the values of Christian Brothers Academy. You are among the honored few who really exemplify CBA and this is about much more than just your grade point average.

You’ve excelled in service, character and

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leadership, and that is what we are all about here at the Academy.”

Chartered at the Academy in 1965, the Saint de La Salle Chapter of the National Honor Society exists to promote scholarship, service, leadership and character among high school students.

Membership is open to students who have completed at least five semesters at CBA and who exhibit the qualities of the four pillars to an exceptional degree.

Those students with the minimum academic average are invited to complete an application. Applications for rising seniors are considered in September.

Applications for juniors and seniors are considered in February. The society is led by Ms. Morgan Biloholowski, a member of the English department faculty.

The society’s current executive board members, highlighted by blue robes, include seniors Matthew Herman (President), Richard Farina (Vice President), Brian Askin (Treasurer), Jack Butler (Parliamentarian) and Tyler Straley (Secretary).

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Monmouth County Park System E. Murray Todd Half Marathon Planned for Sunday, March 12 The Monmouth County Park System will hold its annual E. Murray Todd Half Marathon on Sunday, March 12. This 13.1-mile race takes runners through Lincroft, Holmdel and Colts Neck. The race begins at 8:30 a.m. at Brookdale Community College, 765 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft.

Race medals will be awarded to all registered finishers.

Pre-registration is available online at www.MonmouthCountyParks.com until March 5 and costs $40 per person.

Race day registration is also available beginning at 7 a.m. and costs $60 per person; cash or check only.

Those who wish to be involved but not run are invited to volunteer and assist with registration and at refreshment stations. Prospective volunteers should contact the Park System volunteer office at 732-842-4000, ext. 4283, or volunteer@monmouthcountyparks.com. For more information about the E. Murray Todd Half Marathon, please email Michael.Balkovic@co.monmouth.nj.us or call 732-542-1642, ext. 27.

Monmouth County Public Works assists with the removal of deceased humpback whale in Manasquan The Monmouth County Department of Public Works and Engineering assisted the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Marine Mammal Stranding Center (MMSC), the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, and the Borough of Manasquan recently assisted with the removal of a deceased humpback whale at the Manasquan Inlet beach.

“On behalf of the Board of County Commissioners, I would like to commend our Public Works employees along with our federal, state and local partners including the Boroughs of Sea Girt and Spring Lake, who assisted in this removal operation,” said Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone. “Group efforts like this are examples of the County’s commitment to our partners and residents.”

According to NOAA Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries Office, the humpback whale was reported to the MMSC on Monday, February 13. Necropsy teams from MMSC and Atlantic Marine Conservation Society were on scene to gather informa-

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tion about this whale and plan for a necropsy. The decision was made to move the whale to a County facility for examination and tissue sampling. Necropsy teams will have access to heavy equipment and resources that will enable a complete exam-

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ination. The whale has been identified as a juvenile female, about 35 feet long.

If you come across a marine mammal in distress, please contact the Greater Atlantic Marine Mammal Stranding Hotline at 866-755-6622.

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Monmouth County Park System’s Dreamscapes Exhibit Calling all artists! The Monmouth County Park System is seeking entries into its upcoming Dreamscapes Exhibit, which will be held from April 21 - June 17 at the Gallery in the Thompson Park Creative Arts Center in Lincroft. This exhibit will feature artwork inspired by dreamlike imagery. Surreal landscapes, fantastical narrative paintings, or any work that evokes a feeling of a world of reverie is applicable. Artists of any medium are welcome to apply. Additional information and entry form are available on “The Gallery at Thompson Park” page at www.

MonmouthCountyParks.com. Entry deadline is Friday, April 7.

To learn more about the exhibit, the Thompson Park Creative Arts Center, or the Park System, please visit www.

MonmouthCountyParks.com or call 732-842-4000. For persons with hearing impairment, the Park System TTY/TDD number is 711. The Monmouth County Park System, created in 1960 by the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners, is Monmouth County’s Open Space, Parks, and Recreation agency.

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Monmouth County awarded $1.18 million for Safe Streets and Roads for All Comprehensive Action Safety Plan Grant The Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce that the County has been awarded the Safe Streets and Roads for All Comprehensive Action Safety Plan Grant in partnership with Bradley Beach, Highlands, and Holmdel, totaling $1.18 million in funding.

“Monmouth County is thrilled to be awarded the SS4A grant which will be used to develop, complete, or supplement a comprehensive safety action plan,” said Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone. “The action plans will seek to identify and implement low-cost, high-impact strategies, and will explore innovative technologies and strategies promoting safety and equity.”

“As the lead applicant, the County will provide guidance for planning and administration to the towns included in the

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application,” said Commissioner Lillian G. Burry, liaison to the Division of Planning. “Once an Action Plan is complete, the County can apply for funds for an Implementation Grant which would be the implementation of the recommendations in the Action Plan.”

“Safety of our residents and visitors is one of our highest priorities,” said Commissioner Ross F. Licitra, commissioner liaison to the Planning Board. “Bradley Beach, Highlands, Holmdel, and the Monmouth County Division of Planning will develop Comprehensive Safety Action Plans for each of their jurisdictions addressing issues related to speed and infrastructure, as well as detailing and recommending behavioral and policy interventions that encourage sobriety, patience, focus, seatbelt use, and modal choice.”

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Ridge Road Run 5K Scheduled for May 7 The Ridge Road Run 5K will take place on May 7, 2023 at Rumson-Fair Haven High School, with proceeds going towards suicide and mental health/wellness prevention, education and awareness benefiting students at Red Bank Catholic (RBC), Red Bank Regional (RBR), and Rumson-Fair Haven (RFH) High Schools and their greater school communities.

With broad community support, what started out as a 5K has evolved into so much more. The Ridge Road Run 5K does more now to educate students and their greater school communities than ever before.

With that in mind, the organization is rebranding itself in the Spring of 2023 as The Ridge Road Alliance for Suicide Education and Prevention. The Alliance will serve as the umbrella organization for the 5K and the Ambassador program. There is a coordinator that works with each school advisor to coordinate awareness activities, the 5K race, social media and the new website (spring of 2023). Funds are held in a

restricted account through the Source Foundation at Red Bank Regional High School, a registered 501c3.

This school year, each school received $10,000 to spend on mental health and wellness initiatives within their school and school community. The

Ambassador program has been promoting the new 988 crisis line. At their rival football game, both RBC and RFH donned You Matter shirts displaying the 988 crisis line. The double header “Battle of Ridge Road” basketball game between

RFH and RBR served as the backdrop for students to come together for mental health awareness. RBR and RFH students wore Stay Strong and You Matter shirts both with the crisis line information on them. Students shared resources, gave out 988 bracelets and promoted the organization at both events.

Ambassadors have presented information to students in their schools, spoken to the public at sporting events (football, basketball, ice hockey), promoted suicide education and prevention with balloon arches teal/purple (suicide awareness) or green/ white (mental health awareness), launched anti-bullying/kindness campaigns and relayed valuable information through social media.

None of this would be possible without the public’s generosity.

By supporting the 5K, you can help the organization continue to fulfill its mission of suicide and mental health/wellness prevention, education and awareness. Also be sure to follow @RidgeRoadRun on social media.

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Solar Landscape Opens Enrollment for Green Ambassador Program and $20,000 in Scholarships As part of Solar Landscape’s community solar initiatives, the company is now accepting enrollments for its Green Ambassador Program and will award $20,000 in scholarships ranging from $500 to $2,000 to the winners of its Community Sustainability Challenge.

Now an online course, the Green Ambassador Program provides sustainability education to high school students who are seeking to create change within their communities. Since its inception in 2021, the program has reached more than 300 New Jersey students.

Students can enroll today at www.solarlandscape.com/ green-ambassador-program.

This year’s webinars focus on green energy and careers, including: • • • • •

Energy 101 Sustainable Policies Community Solar Careers in Energy Green Energy Business and Entrepreneurship.

“Engaging with New Jersey’s students early about the role they play in sustainability is vital to our clean energy future,” said Randall Solomon, executive director of Sustainable Jersey. “Solar Landscape’s Green Ambassador Program creates a real opportunity for New Jersey’s schools, teachers and students to have the chance to earn scholarships and promote our clean energy transition. Solar Landscape deserves praise for their ongoing efforts to innovate and advance sustainability.”

“Our clean energy economy depends on introducing more students to new career paths today,” said Solar Landscape CEO Shaun Keegan. “That’s why we’re excited to continue to support.”

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Eastern Monmouth County Chamber of Commerce Announces Appointment of Three New Board Members

Heather Baker, EMACC Chairwoman of the Board Jane Tresnan, EMACC Executive Director Jennifer Eckhoff, and Carolyn Burtnick

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he Eastern Monmouth Area Chamber of Commerce recently announced the appointment of three new members to the Board of Directors. The number of board members is currently 24.

New board members Heather Baker from Provident Bank, Carolyn Burtnick from Monmouth County Division of Tourism and Leo Wong from GRANTview Financial Group join EMACC bringing extensive knowledge of business development and program management. Baker works as a Banking Center Manager, Burtnick is the Director of Tourism for Monmouth County and Wong is a financial planner specializing in new market research and retirement planning.

“Heather, Carolyn and Leo will bring a great perspective to EMACC,” said Chairwoman Jane Tresnan. “We are excited to have their strong business background and resources to grow and support our Chamber and its members.”

Heather Baker is a Banking Center Manager at Provident Bank in Hazlet and is responsible for new and existing client relationships through dedicated customer service. Heather is involved in her community through volunteer opportunities in the Northern Monmouth County area. Heather is excited to join the Board of Directors for EMACC and looks forward to assisting in the growth of the Chamber.

Carolyn Burtnick is the Director of Tourism for Monmouth County and very active in her local communities, giving her time to many area non-profit organizations. Carolyn, a lifelong resident of Monmouth County was named in 2017 to the “Phenomenal Women Under 40” by the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore and in 2012 was named “New Jersey’s Finest” by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Since 2008, she has been volunteering with The Ashley Lauren Foundation, located in Brielle, and currently serves on the Board of Directors. Carolyn looks for-

ward to joining the EMACC Board and a Chamber with 95 years of history in our community.

Leo Wong is a financial planner at GRANTvest Financial Group specializing in new market research and retirement planning. Leo’s extensive experience with client service and business management has helped cultivate a passion for serving others in the community. Leo is honored to join the EMACC Board of Directors.

The Eastern Monmouth Area Chamber of Commerce, founded in 1928, has supported our business and community for almost 100 years. EMACC plays an essential role in the health of the business community regionally and statewide. Proudly serving Eatontown, Fair Have, Little Silver, Middletown, Monmouth Beach, Oceanport, Red Bank, Rumson, Sea Bright, Shrewsbury and Tinton Falls. All are welcome! Call for more information (732) 741-0055 or send an email to info@EMACC.org.

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No One Stands in the Way of a Jersey Girl!

Monmouth County's Tammy Snyder Murphy Discusses Her Priorities for the State

Courtesy of State of New Jersey - Office of the Governor

“Central Jersey does exist,” New Jersey’s First Lady emphatically stated. “I know because it’s where I live.”

“The nice thing about living in Central Jersey is that it means I can stay out of the fray when it comes to the North Jersey/

South Jersey divide debate,” she joked.

Tammy Murphy and her husband moved to Monmouth County twenty-five years ago and settled in Middletown Township. Their careers had brought them to Hong Kong for a time, and when they were relocated to New York City for work, the Murphys began looking for places to live in the region that would meet their needs and enable them to commute to the city.

“Long-standing friends of ours from Monmouth County invited us for lunch in the Twin Rivers area and we absolutely loved it. We were immediately sold on making our home here,” Murphy recounted, “it was an easy decision to

make.” Having grown up on the water in her native Virginia, Murphy was drawn to Monmouth County’s proximity to the Navesink River and access to wonderful beaches. In the years since, the Murphys have raised four children here and have come to appreciate the county’s phenomenal schools, restaurants, and public parks.

Murphy also appreciates that Monmouth County’s centralized location allows for easy travel to all that New Jersey has to offer its residents: the mountains in the North, the beautiful farms in the South and West, the Jersey Shore, the major urban centers of Philadelphia and New York, and so much more.

Story by Brian O’Malley

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NJ First Lady Tammy Snyder Murphy Photography Joe Brown

women in the months and years ahead.

Coinciding with the launch of Golden Seeds, Murphy embarked on a state-wide listening tour, meeting with successful businesswomen throughout New Jersey to get a sense of the economic landscape. The First Lady and her team visited a variety of businesses, from pharmacies, to chocolate makers, to pressed juice stores, to caterers, with Murphy noting that there is a diversity of female-oriented industries in the state. The two goals of the listening tour were first, to inform the First Lady’s Office about the needs of the female business community, and second, to help promote the Golden Seeds initiative and get the word out that there are opportunities for current business owners to engage and invest in female start-ups.

Some of the feedback that business owners shared with the First Lady included that employees of women-owned businesses are happier and better cared for, that female business owners take into consideration the impact of their decisions on humanity as a whole, and that female business owners prioritize giving back to their communities.

Courtesy of State of New Jersey - Office of the Governor

Women in Business In 2018, Tammy Murphy’s life changed dramatically when her husband Phil Murphy was sworn-in as Governor of New Jersey. As First Lady of a state with over nine million residents, Murphy manages an office with many priorities. One of the key initiatives for her team is increasing the number of women-owned businesses in the state. An important avenue for achieving this goal was bringing Golden Seeds, a nationwide women’s entrepreneurship initiative, to the state.

Murphy launched the New Jersey chapter of Golden Seeds in partnership with the NJ Economic Development Authority. This angel investor network provides necessary funding to help female entrepreneurs get their start in the New Jersey business community.

The First Lady is quick to lay out why the Golden Seeds initiative is crucial to the state’s economy. “It has been proven that when women are in the C-suite and the rooms where decisions are being made, employees are happier and return on investment is higher.” She continues, “women-owned businesses have historically re-

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ceived less of the start-up investment dollars than their male-owned counterparts… venture capital opportunities like Golden Seeds help to level the playing field.”

The New Jersey chapter of Golden Seeds opened in February of 2020. Since that date it has become the most successful of the eight chapters across the nation, with 31 mentor-members and 157 entrepreneurs. Golden Seeds seeks out female entrepreneurs with a solid business plan and provides the investor backing to get them off the ground. But, according to the First Lady, the “secret sauce” of the initiative is its mentorship program. Entrepreneur candidates have access to monthly office hours and are guided by a seasoned business professional. These relationships not only provide advice and guidance but also open the doors to a diverse network of colleagues across the state who will help the potential start-up to thrive.

“No one stands in the way of a Jersey girl!” the First Lady posted on her official Twitter account to mark the start of Women’s History Month. Murphy’s hard work and that of her staff ensure that this will be increasingly true for New Jersey business-

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“Women want to make sure that we are giving back as much as we can, and that we are laying the stage for those who come after us” Murphy affirmed this sentiment, suggesting that “women, perhaps because we have children, because we’re the moms of the family, often take great concern about where we are heading down the road.” She summarized the outcomes of the listening tour, saying, “women want to make sure that we are giving back as much as we can, and that we are laying a foundation for those who come after us.”

Hollywood Comes East Big news for Monmouth County came in December 2022 with the announcement that Netflix will purchase the former Fort Monmouth site in Eatontown to build their East Coast film studios. The $55 billion deal promises to be an economic boost for Monmouth County and was facilitated in large part by the Governor and First Lady.

Prior to the beginning of the Murphy administration, the state’s investment in the film and television industry had languished. Recognizing that an important component of her husband’s role is what she refers to as Chief Salesperson of the State, the First Lady joined the Governor in making two official visits to Los Angeles to meet with industry executives and sell New Jersey as a place they should set up shop. The Murphys met with studio officials and talent agencies not only to learn

about what was important to them, but also to inform them about the breadth and depth of what New Jersey has to offer. In particular, the First Lady focused on the variety of landscapes and potential filming locations across the state that could be easily traversed by film crews and actors.

Within an hour's drive, one could film at a beach, the mountains, a picturesque farm, or a sprawling urban center. For Murphy, it was a fun and rewarding pitch to be able to make.

The First Lady was proud to report that since the start of this process over 175 films and TV shows have been shot in New Jersey. Clearly, this will be a major industry for the state going forward.

Here in Monmouth County, the transformation of the vacant Fort Monmouth army base into a film studio for Netflix is something that Monmouth residents can get excited about. The Fort Monmouth Economic Redevelopment Agency (FMERA) was tasked with investigating

possible uses for the former military post.

The First Lady is thrilled that of the four bids that FMERA scored, Netflix was chosen as the buyer.

The deal, which will bring a bit of Hollywood to Monmouth County, is anticipated to create about 3,500 well-paying union construction jobs to the area while the project is being completed. Ultimately, Netflix expects that the studio site will establish 1,500 permanent jobs on location.

The First Lady stresses that this will benefit local residents, saying, “we will need to train people in specific skill sets which will mean a diversity of job opportunities down the road for people who live in and around Monmouth County.”

The economic growth will not be limited to the Netflix site itself, Murphy notes, saying “the ancillary benefits that will come to small businesses, hotels, restaurants in the surrounding area will be countless – this is a great opportunity for Monmouth County.”

Courtesy of State of New Jersey - Office of the Governor

CONTINUED >

Green Business: The Future of New Jersey Another important priority for the First Lady’s Office has been incorporating climate change education across all K-12 learning standards, making New Jersey the first state in the nation to achieve this necessary milestone. “There is no doubt that we need to understand the environment better than we currently do,” Murphy says, noting the recent unbelievable swings in weather, “we are seeing right now what will happen down the road.”

The First Lady points out that there is also an economic side to teaching our K-12 students about climate change and the environment, noting “it’s a smart thing to do because the entire world is moving towards a greener economy.”

Murphy believes that preparing our students for the economy of the future is a point on which New Jerseyans can come together, emphasizing “if we don’t train our students to fill these jobs of the future, then we are leaving them behind economically.”

That being said, Murphy is hopeful that the inclusion of this information in the K-12 curriculum will better equip the next generation with the skill sets they need to tackle climate change.

Message to Her Neighbors The First Lady is proud to be a resident of Monmouth County and says that she loves being a part of the Middletown community.

She is excited to be able to bring Netflix to the area because she believes it will be a boon to all of the people living in the county. She is grateful for the support of her neighbors and the local and state elected officials who made this a priority.

The county continues to be a special place for the Murphys, who have opted to live here while carrying out their official duties in Trenton.

“For us,” Murphy beams, “Monmouth County is home.”

For more information about the First Lady’s Office and Tammy Murphy’s key initiatives, please visit www. nj.gov/firstlady. To learn more about the Golden Seeds program, please visit www.goldenseeds.com.

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Historical Commission Looking for Preservation Projects for Awards Program County seeks to recognize important historical buildings The Monmouth County Historical Commission is accepting nominations for its annual Preservation Awards program, which acknowledges individuals or groups that have preserved historical structures in Monmouth County.

“Monmouth County is proud of its rich history and looks forward to acknowledging a number of honorees for their difficult and time-consuming historical preservation projects,” said County Commissioner Lillian G. Burry, liaison to the County’s Historical Commission.

“I am thrilled to work with the Historical Commission to continue protecting and restoring our history through the Preservation Awards program.”

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Eligible applicants include private citizens, organizations, businesses, municipalities, or any group that recently preserved a historic structure. The nominated property should be a building or structure historically noteworthy in some way and at least 50 years old. The deadline to submit a nomination is April 7, 2023.

Last year, the Historical Commission recognized Albert Wilcox and Jeffery Rudell for substantially restoring their 1887 Queen Anne Victorian House located at 112 Main Ave. in Ocean Grove, Leslie and Jay Eaton were recognized for adaptively restoring their George Barlow 1892 Horse Barn and Carriage House

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located at 916 Broad St. in Shrewsbury and Preston Filozof was recognized for rescuing and restoring his 1720 Dutchframed Colonial House, known as Maple Hall, located at 409 Rt. 537, Colts Neck.

The application process requires the completion of a nominating form that can be downloaded from the County’s website at www.visitmonmouth.com or by contacting Executive Director John Fabiano, at John.Fabiano@co.monmouth.nj.us.

Completed applications should be mailed to Monmouth County Historical Commission, Hall of Records Annex, 2nd, Freehold, NJ 07728 by the deadline, April 7, 2023.

You Could Be The Cure Emmy Freund, a resident of Fair Haven, was recently diagnosed with leukemia and is in need of a bone marrow transplant. Spread awareness and sign up to be a match today to receive a registration kit! If you are between the ages of 18-40, you can help save someone’s life.

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Middletown Arts Center presents Seussical, A Musical

Monmouth Civic Chorus Presents Singing Up A Storm

New Jersey Symphony: New Jersey Symphony Stars

March 3-5 and March 10-12

March 12, 4pm

The MAC PLAYERS, Middletown Arts Center’s community theater group, kicks off its 2023 season with Seussical, a fantastical, magical, musical extravaganza! Fun for the whole family, Seussical creates the witty, wild and whimsical world of Dr. Seuss as it has never been seen before. Purchase tickets online at middletownarts.org or call the MAC Box Office at 732.706.4110.

The award-winning Monmouth Civic Chorus presents Singing Up a Storm: A Trio of Tempestuous Classics.

This exciting program full of vocal and instrumental fireworks includes Handel’s Dixit Dominus, Haydn’s Lord Nelson Mass, and Rosephanye Powell’s The Cry of Jeremiah.

Monmouthcivicchorus.org

March 18, 8 pm Count Basie Center for the Arts

Cookstove Demonstration at Historic Longstreet Farm

March 12, 8:30am

March 4, 11am-3pm See what's cooking on the woodstove at Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel, and discover how recipes, cooking techniques and kitchens have changed since the 1890s. FREE!

Homemade Soda Bread Contest: Happy St. Patrick’s Day at Oceanic Free Library March 9th, 7pm Come and sign up at the library to enter! There will be Irish step dancers, pipers and judged by Densie & Jodi of cups and cakes.

Middletown St. Patrick's Day Parade March 11, 1pm The parade steps off from in front of Saint Mary School at 538 Church Street

E. Murray Todd HalfMarathon Start at Brookdale Community College, Lincroft, and run through the residential sections of Lincroft, Holmdel and Colts Neck during this 13.1-mile race. Pre-registration accepted.

Rumson St Patrick’s Day Parade March 12, ​1pm This family friendly parade marks its 10th year celebrating Irish Heritage. For more information visit rumsonstpatricksdayparade.org.

Accordion Melodies of the 1890s at Historic Longstreet Farm March 18, 1-3pm Hear melodies of the 1890s played on the accordion during your visit to Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel.

FREE!

Tickets: $80, $50, $25. For more information and tickets visit thebasie. org.

Little Silver Environmental Day March 25, 9am-12pm Woman’s Club, 111 Church Street in Little Silver Spread the Word! On-site paper shred truck, electronics recycling, gently used clothing collection, used sneaker collection, composting bins for sale $35, environmental displays, composting Q&A, saplings and more!

Piano Ballads from the Turn of the Century March 25, 1-3 pm Tap your feet, dance a one-step, or sing-along to popular turn-of-the-19thcentury ballads as they are played inside the farmhouse at Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel. FREE!

Amazing Athletes & Educational Sports Program: Colts Neck March 25, 10am-12pm Amazing Athletes' goal is to teach soccer skills in a fun, non-competitive, educational environment. There are multiple classes available and includes an 8-week program.

Accepting event listings at info@communitymagazinenj.com.

WE GOT YOUR BACK, HIPS, KNEES & SHOULDERS, TOO. Our bones and joints are the foundation of every movement. And at Hackensack Meridian Health, 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.

To learn more visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Ready.

Rumson Country Day School Honors Phi Beta Kappa Inductee Claire Caroli ’13 with School Holiday

E

ach year, RCDS takes a holiday on the Tuesday after Presidents’ Day to commemorate the achievements of its alumni inducted to the Phi Beta Kappa Society. PBK is the nation’s oldest and most prestigious academic honor society. It recognizes the best and brightest liberal arts and sciences undergraduates from 293 top schools across the nation through a highly selective, merit-based invitation process. This year, RCDS honors Claire Caroli '13, one of the most recent RCDS graduates known to have earned the distinction.

“I actually thought of RCDS immediately because I remember getting the day off when I was a student,” said Claire. “It’s like an incentive to succeed academically. The holiday celebrates that hard work pays off. Being inducted was exciting because not only do you need the grades to be nominated, but you also need professors to recommend you. It was nice to feel like I had made that kind of impression on a professor.”

Claire’s journey after RCDS took her to Rumson-Fair Haven High School and then on to Boston College where she majored in Islamic Civilization and Societies and studied Arabic. She is currently applying to law school and is a paralegal

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at Rose Law Partners LLP, a commercial litigation law firm in Boston.

“I enjoy the tight knit community of a small firm,” she said. “I get a lot of opportunities to do more hands-on work that I might not otherwise have. I feel like my appreciation for that probably came from RCDS and the kind of experience I had in my small classes.”

Claire entered RCDS as a nursery student and appreciates that her eleven years at the School were instrumental in shaping who she is today.

“My hard-working nature definitely comes from the influence of my teachers at RCDS,” said Claire. “I only ever want to hand in my best work. I carried that with me to high school, in college, and in my job now. I wouldn’t want to give something to my boss that I'm not proud of.

RCDS instilled that in me.”

A particularly strong work ethic, strength of character, and academic achievement often distinguish RCDS graduates and earn them accolades like being inducted to the Phi Beta Kappa Society. To date, RCDS knows of over 65 alumni who have been selected for PBK membership and suspects that there are more. As PBK inductees, they are in the company of 17 U.S. Presidents, 42 Su-

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"My hard-working nature definitely comes from the influence of my teachers at RCDS" - Phi Beta Kappa Inductee Claire Caroli

preme Court Justices, and more than 150 Nobel Laureates. If you know of any other alumni who are members of PBK please contact the RCDS Advancement Office at advancement@rcds.org.

TRULY GREAT EDUCATION

Megan’s Mindful Minute . . .

March MADNESS

LASTS

A LIFETIME

Adulting is hard. Juggling the responsibilities of life can be, well, maddening. When we're stretched thin, overworked, tired or even hungry, we're likely to respond to a situation with anger. This often leads to feelings of regret, guilt or shame and may even damage relationships. So, what can be done?

1.

Know your triggers. What aspects of life really bother you? What patterns can you identify regarding your anger?

2. Know your body. Recognize when your body is telling you you're getting upset. Clenching hands, jaw, feeling hot, discomfort in your stomach.

3. Know your limits. Breaks and timeouts aren't just for children. It is totally OK to walk away from a situation, ask for a break, or pause to breathe.

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."

The lessons RCDS students learn from Nursery to Grade 8 stick with them for a lifetime. We teach practical skills alongside critical content, so students learn how to innovate, problem solve, and communicate effectively.

Our school days extend far beyond the classroom with engaging co-curricular and extracurricular activities that boost confidence, teamwork, and leadership. The Four Pillars — Kind, Honest, Responsible and Respectful — are principles RCDS graduates carry into high school, college,

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.

and beyond. Discover how Truly Great N-8 education at RCDS can set your child up for a lifetime of learning.

SCHEDULE A PERSONAL TOUR rcds.org/tour • admissions@rcds.org

35 Bellevue Avenue • Rumson, NJ 07760 • 732.842.0527 www.rcds.org

County Seeking Employers for Spring Job Fair Companies must register to participate in March 28 event The Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners invites employers to register for the 2023 spring job fair being held at the Robert J. Collins Arena at Brookdale Community College on Tuesday, March 28 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“We encourage all employers with job openings to register for the spring job fair at Brookdale Community College,” said Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone. “The job fair is open to the public with up to 1,000 job seekers expected to attend and employers will have the opportunity to meet candidates with a variety of skills and experience.”

The event is free to both employers and job seekers. To ensure a variety of job and internship opportunities are represented, the Division of Workforce Development limits the number of

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businesses in each category.

“While the spring job fair is free for employers, registration is required by contacting the Division of Workforce Development,” said Commissioner Susan M. Kiley, liaison to the Division of Workforce Development. “We invite everyone to take advantage of this great opportunity.”

The Monmouth County 2023 spring job fair is being held in partnership with: the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners, Monmouth County Workforce Development Board, NJ Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Brookdale Community College, Monmouth Ocean Development Council and Bridging the Gap for Veterans.

Bridging the Gap for Veterans is a 501

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(c) (3) non-profit organization that helps the military community by providing Military Career Transition Coaches who open career doors to Veteran Friendly Hiring Employers.

Monmouth County Division of Workforce Development offers services that benefit both employers and job seekers in Monmouth County by matching employers with workers who have the training and skills that the business requires. The Division helps prepare Monmouth County residents for careers in various industries by providing job readiness, occupation skills training, and job search assistance.

Job seekers and employers interested in more information should call 732683-8850 ext. 5511 or visit www. workinmonmouth.com.

Lunch Break’s Annual Prom Drive & Giveaway Makes Wishes Come True Lunch Break, the social service resource center providing life skills, family counseling, housing solutions and basic needs, is currently accepting prom formal-wear donations for female and male students, as part of the annual Prom Drive and Giveaway.

In past years, hundreds of students were professionally styled in gorgeous gowns and tuxedos fit for a prom queen and king through the generosity of individual donors, businesses and organizations. This year’s giveaway takes place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 15, 2023 at the Tower Hill First Presbyterian Church, 255 Harding Road in Red Bank.

The Lunch Break prom program makes many young men and women’s dreams come true — in a Cinderella-and-Prince Charming story-come-to-life. Those who never believed they’d have prom night memories are granted their wish. Some young women have been brought to tears upon trying on their one, perfect gown as they say yes to the dress! And so begins the fairytale.

“Lunch Break is thrilled to be able to continue the annual Prom Drive and Giveaway during our Capital Campaign expansion construction,” said Director of Community Engagement Kathy Williams. “Over the years, our donors have overwhelmingly supported our efforts. I’m sure this year, we will be able to offer a wonderful selection of gowns and formal wear to students, free of charge.”

Donations, including gowns, dresses, tuxedos, ties, formal shoes, handbags and jewelry, are kindly accepted from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays through March 24, 2023 at Clara’s Closet storage location, 968 Shrewsbury Ave. (Unit 5), Shrewsbury. For additional information, contact Fatima Carranza at fcarranza@lunchbreak.org, (732) 747-8577, Ext. 3016 or Kathy Williams at kwilliams@lunchbreak.org, (732) 747-8577, Ext. 3051.

“I’m extremely proud of our program team,” said Executive Director Gwendolyn Love. “Because of our incredibly generous community, the team will be ready to help our young women and men look and feel special on prom night.”

CommunityMagazineNJ.com MARCH 2023

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Monmouth County Park System to Publish Summer Camps Edition of Its Parks & Programs Guide

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ant to give your children a summer they’ll always remember?

Send them to camp with the Monmouth County Park System for an unforgettable experience! From Call of the Wild to Down on the Farm, the Park System offers numerous summer camps tailored to different ages and interests. With beautiful park settings, low staff-to-camper ratio, enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff and an emphasis on safety, the Park System’s camps are perfect for your children. The highlight of any child’s summer vacation, these camps feature everything you’d want games, crafts and nature activities.

Some Park System camps allow children to focus on a particular sport or interest such as Skateboarding Camp, Cartooning, and Wizarding Games. Some other events include performing arts, odyssey adventure camps, sports and therapeutic recreation camps. Other camps include Summertime Fun at the Fort, Kids on Stage: The Fairy Tales, and Basketball Camp. There is an option for half-day, full-day and overnight camps offered. One parent stated that “My daughter Julianna loved Pine Seedlings. I wish that you would run it for the entire season. She couldn't wait to get there every morning. She loved her counselors.”

Learn more about these and other offerings in the Park System’s Summer Camps edition of its Parks & Programs Guide, which lists all of its summer camps for children. Most Park System camps last a week, allowing children to register for multiple camps and experience new activities throughout the summer.

Registration for summer camps begins on Sunday, March 5 with online registration starting at 12 p.m.; phone registration from 12-2 p.m.; and in-person registration from 12-2 p.m. at three sites. To register online, visit www.MonmouthCountyParks.com. To register by

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phone with VISA, MasterCard or Discover, call 732-842-4000, ext. 1. In-person registration will be available at the Thompson Park Visitor Center, Lincroft; the Thompson Park Creative Arts Center, Lincroft; and the Fort Monmouth Recreation Center, Tinton Falls. Those doing in-person registration should bring a list of camps (with program codes) they wish to register for as well as some alternatives. In-person registration is cash or check only.

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After March 5, registration can be done online 24/7; by phone by calling 732-842-4000, ext. 1, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; or in person by visiting Park System Headquarters in Thompson Park, Lincroft, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.4:30 p.m. You may register your family members only.

For more information, visit www.

MonmouthCountyParks.com or call the Park System at 732-842-4000.

Congratulations

Tom Connors

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