Long Branch, NJ December 2024 by City Lifestyle

ANYWHERE, ANYTIME. FOPE PHOTOGRAPHED BY THOMAS

LOHR

It’s the most wonderful time of the year!

As the holidays approach, I find myself reflecting on the magic of the season and how we often strive to recreate the joy we felt in our youth. The familiar scents of baking cookies, the twinkling lights adorning our streets, and the warmth of shared traditions bring back fond memories. In my own family, we’ve always had a tradition of making cookies, decorating our tree and house right after Thanksgiving. It’s these moments that truly capture the spirit of the holidays for me.

This month, we want to celebrate the enchantment of the season and highlight the wonderful offerings from our city that spread holiday cheer. We’re excited to share the many entertainment options and opportunities to give back this holiday season.

While this time of year can be magical for many, we also recognize it can be challenging for those experiencing loss or loneliness. In the true spirit of the season, let’s reach out to those in our community who may need assistance or companionship. My hope for you this season is to embrace love and peace, and to extend grace and empathy to one another.

Wishing you all a joyful and fulfilling holiday season!

Warmest wishes,

DIMES, PUBLISHER

December 2024

PUBLISHER

Amy Dimes | amy.dimes@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Bernie Augustine | bernie.augustine@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lauren Lovello, Shannon Littlehale, Linda Gammel

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Andrea Phox, Shannon Littlehale, Linda Gammel

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

inside the issue

Neighborhood

Charitable

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HOUSING

THE UNITS OR INTERESTS IN THE DEVELOPMENT ARE OFFERED TO THE PUBLIC AND ARE SOLD OR ALIENATED WITHOUT REGARD TO MARITAL STATUS, SEX, RACE, COLOR, CREED, RELIGIOUS PRINCIPLES, NATIONAL ORIGIN, ANCESTRY, AFFECTIONAL OR SEXUAL ORIENTATION, OR ANY OTHER BASIS PROHIBITED BY THE LAW AGAINST DISCRIMINATION (N.J.S.A.10:5-1 ET SEQ.). THE ARTIST’S REPRESENTATION OF THE BUILDING AND ANY DESCRIPTION OR DEPICTION OF INTERIOR DECORATIONS, FINISHES, APPLIANCES, FURNISHINGS, OR EXTERIOR PHOTOGRAPHIC VIEWS CONTAINED HEREIN ARE PROVIDED FOR ILLUSTRATIVE PURPOSES ONLY AND MAY BE MODIFIED, ALTERED, OR CHANGED. THE COMPLETE OFFERING TERMS ARE IN A PUBLIC OFFERING STATEMENT AVAILABLE FROM SPONSOR. SPONSOR RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MAKE CHANGES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PUBLIC OFFERING STATEMENT. PROSPECTIVE PURCHASERS ARE ADVISED TO REVIEW THE COMPLETE TERMS OF THE PUBLIC OFFERING STATEMENT FOR FURTHER DETAIL AS TO TYPE, QUALITY AND QUANTITY OF MATERIALS, APPLIANCES, EQUIPMENT, AND FIXTURES TO BE INCLUDED IN THE UNITS, AMENITY AREAS AND COMMON ELEMENTS OF THE CONDOMINIUM. SPONSOR MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTIES EXCEPT AS MAY BE SET FORTH IN THE PUBLIC OFFERING STATEMENT AND PURCHASER ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT IT HAS RELIED ONLY ON THE TERMS OF THE PUBLIC OFFERING STATEMENT. ESTIMATED COMPLETION DATE OF AMENITIES IS MAY 2025, SUBJECT TO THE AVAILABILITY OF MATERIALS, CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULES, WEATHER, AND OTHER MARKET CONDITIONS. ALL RIGHTS TO CONTENT, PHOTOGRAPHS, AND GRAPHICS RESERVED TO SPONSOR. SPONSOR:

AVENUE, LOCH ARBOUR, NJ 07711. EXCLUSIVE SALES & MARKETING AGENT: DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL

ARTICLE BY SHANNON LITTLEHALE & LINDA GAMMEL

Winter Wonderful

NEIGHBORHOOD KIDS SHARE THEIR FAVORITE HOLIDAY TRADITIONS

Correna, 11

“My favorite tradition is putting all the Christmas decorations up after Thanksgiving and decorating the tree and drinking hot cocoa.”

Kaylee, 11; Connor, 9

Kaylee: “Making cookies, because I make them with my mom and brother.”

Connor: “Going to Grammy and Papa’s for Christmas dinner because I can play and eat Grammy’s delicious food.”

“I love the night that our family drives around looking at Christmas lights because I get to spend time with my family and see all these cool set ups.”

“I love baking some cookies with the family and I also enjoy eating them!”

“My favorite Chanukah traditions are going to shul at Chabad, lighting the candles on the menorah, and opening up presents. Sometimes my birthday is during Chanukah, and I get extra presents too.”

Esther Grace, 9

Grayson, 5

Alana, 8

Adam, 11

“I enjoy setting out milk and cookies for Santa and a carrot for the reindeer. And on Christmas Eve, we read The Night Before Christmas and open one present.”

Maggie, 6

“I like baking cookies for my neighbors.”

August, 4

“I like getting Christmas pajamas and setting up the tree.”

Dexter, 6

“I like when my dad takes me shopping to get presents for my brothers and sisters.”

Wesley, 4 (with sister Daphne, 9 months)

“My favorite tradition is decorating Christmas cookies and opening presents.”

“Our favorite holiday tradition is going to our grandma and pop-pop’s house on Christmas Day for their Christmas party.”

Sadie (12), Leo (5), Adelaide (9)

GIVEA LI TTLEBIT

CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS PUT THEIR WHOLE HEARTS INTO HELPING OTHERS

ARTICLE BY LAUREN LOVALLO

“This is a space where they can be completely authentic.”

Bob Heugle and Warrior Riley

When it comes to helping others, Michele Gannon and Bob Heugle go above and beyond. Gannon, executive director and co-founder of Mary’s Place By The Sea, and Heugle, president and executive director of the Frances Foundation, strive to provide everything they can for those who need it most.

FRANCES FOUNDATION

The Frances Foundation launched following the death of Bob Heugle’s mother, Frances, in 2000. Heugle, an attorney, initially became involved in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life before establishing his own endeavor — all in the name of helping kids with cancer and their families, a cause close to Frances’ heart.

“My mom was very, very involved with a lot of kids' organizations and activities,” he said. “She just had a special way with children, and we just thought that's a wonderful way to honor her legacy, helping kids with cancer.”

At the heart of the Frances Foundation’s mission and message: Let kids be kids, we’ll handle the rest.

Since its founding in 2004, the Frances Foundation has raised more than $4 million

to help those 21 and younger battling pediatric cancers in New Jersey. It has sent its “warriors” — how the foundation refers to its young charges — to college basketball games, Broadway shows, the Super Bowl, on cruises to Bermuda, and hosted parties and picnics galore. All in the name of putting smiles back on kids’ faces.

But the Frances Foundation is more than just showing ailing children a good time; it provides a sense of security, community, and hope.

When parents or guardians are unable to pay their mortgages or rents, car insurances or utilities, children’s medical bills or more dire expenses, Bob and the team at the Frances Foundation step up. Parents have enough on their plates, says Bob, and the Frances Foundation is there to lessen the load.

The foundation, which also supports pediatric cancer research, recently announced it would be opening a satellite office in Vero Beach, Florida. That outpost will concentrate solely on pediatric cases in the Sunshine State.

The New Jersey nonprofit survives off of generous donations earned throughout the year, as well as those from its various

“My mom ... she just had a special way with children.”

Michele Gannon

fundraisers and galas. Requests for assistance from families with a child in treatment are always welcome.

“I take a lot of pride in [the foundation],” Heugle said. “I have a great, great team of trustees and volunteers … and they, just like me, love to try to take care of the kids.”

MARY’S

PLACE

Within the quaint town of Ocean Grove lies a special respite. Mary’s Place By The Sea, the brainchild of Michele Gannon, caters to women with cancer who need both a getaway, and a chance to holistically heal their minds, bodies and souls.

Inspired by Gannon’s own brief health battle more than a decade ago, Mary’s Place By The Sea is a safe space that gives women permission to take a break from the world, and to check in with themselves and their needs.

“I think it's something that we can all identify with, being pulled in a million different directions,” said Gannon, who offers women from across New Jersey and the rest of the country multiple-night and one-day retreats.

“Guests meet other women who are on similar paths, and start to build their own community of women who understand. … This is a space where they can be completely authentic. They can really let it out. This is where the healing begins.”

Mary’s Place By The Sea currently resides in a custom-built, 10,000-square-foot property that opened in 2016, and women with all types of cancer at any stage are welcome, from diagnosis up to two years post-treatment. Among the on-site services: Oncology massages, Reiki, reflexology, nutrition education, and one-on-one counseling. Plant-based meals are provided to all guests, and online support via monthly virtual meetings is also available to those unable to visit the home.

Everything at Mary’s Place By The Sea is complimentary; women only need to pay their own ways to the Ocean Grove oasis. That said, the nonprofit, which operates year-round, is completely donation-based; in addition to accepting monetary contributions, it has an online wishlist for items like paper towels, toilet paper, laundry detergent, and soaps, with staff taking great care to stock products that are specific to sensitive skin. The organization also provides women rideshare gift cards to travel to and from airports when it can, and vouchers for meals at area restaurants.

“I want every woman to know that, regardless of where they come from socioeconomically, demographically, the equalizer is cancer,” said Gannon. “If you are struggling with a cancer diagnosis, please don't hesitate to reach out. We’re right here.”

To donate to the Frances Foundation or Mary’s Place By The Sea, visit the nonprofits’ websites at francesfoundation. net and marysplacebythesea.org.

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G I F T S OF GAB

Everybody has that one person on their gift list who is really hard to shop for. The “Person who has everything” type. We’ve all got them in our families and friend groups.

This year, instead of a scented candle subscription or big-box gift card, knock their holiday socks off with an experience gift.

DELIVER THE PRESENT THAT EVERYONE WILL BE TALKING ABOUT THIS HOLIDAY SEASON WITH THESE EXPERIENCE GIFTS

ARTICLE

BY LAURE LOVELLO

For The Creative One Blue Skies Pottery

Learn the basics of ceramics, hone your skills on the wheel, and foster your creativity with Blue Skies Pottery. Started by Valerie Dantone and Jordan Kirsch, the studio offers a wide range of options for people of all ages and abilities. A one-time course, which lasts 90 minutes and costs $75, is the perfect no-pressure environment for beginners. Blue Skies also offers multi-week courses, which last five to seven weeks and cost up to $399, and one-day workshops, which range from two to three hours and cost up to $80. To ensure people feel supported and to promote camaraderie, Blue Skies Pottery intentionally keeps classes, workshops and courses small. They also have a sister studio in Hoboken.

www.blueskiespottery.com/long-branch 15 Morris Ave. Unit 11 (on the boardwalk side, facing the ocean)

For The Artsy One

New Jersey Repertory Company

Witness world-class talent, right in Long Branch, at NJ Rep. The boutique theater serves as a launching pad for some of today’s top playwrights to premiere their latest works, including D.W. Gregory, Inda Craig-Galván, and Jose Rivera, and a fair share of top-tier Broadway and Hollywood talent consistently grace its stages. NJRep’s two theaters are intimate — one seats 62 guests, while the other seats 40 — allowing audiences an immersive and unforgettable experience without the worry of an obstructed view. NJ Rep offers two different packages that can be gifted: An annual subscription ($250) for mainstage shows, and a three-play flex pass ($150), the latter of which does not expire, ensuring tickets never go to waste. Memberships come with a variety of perks, including early announcements of special productions, exchange privileges, and discounts on salon readings, comedy nights and other special events.

www.njrep.org 179 Broadway

For The Foodies Chef

Zazz

Chef Joe Zazzarino can bring you anywhere in the world with his flavors. Whether it’s Italy, India, or even the East Coast, this private chef will be your culinary tour guide — all from the comfort of your own home. Have an intimate date night or a party with friends on tap? Zazzarino will curate a menu, dish up your favorites from scratch, and even handle the clean up. From appetizers to dessert, breakfast to dinner, Zazzarino can cook it all. Prices range from $85 to $90 per person for a simple three-course meal, to upwards of $300 per person for the works – that’s fresh-shucked oysters and clams, baconwrapped scallops, caviar service, and other highend ingredients that are sure to impress your palate. The type of meal and number of courses are completely customizable, says Zazzarino, and he will make sure to work within your budget. Zazzarino also offers mozzarella-making classes, which he calls perfect for a family of four or a group of up to 10. At the end of the session, you’ll walk away with one pound of fresh, homemade cheese that’ll rival any Italian nonna.

www.zazzcatering.com 732-275-5434

For The Outdoorsy One

Seastreak Ferries

From whale-watching in the summer, to foliage cruises up the Hudson River in the fall, Seastreak Ferries has something for everyone. Capture incredible images of wildlife during a seal sightseeing tour, or marvel over the Manhattan skyline at sunset as you embark on a comfortable journey around New York Harbor. Seastreak Ferries operates year-round, meaning there’s no excuse to miss out on the great outdoors (or the remarkable sights), and there are several opportunities for kid-friendly and kid-focused tours. Among other offerings: Fully-catered brunch cruises, day trips to upstate New York, and lighthouse tours — everything even a landlubber would love. Non-catered voyages feature a concession stand with snacks and spirits; passengers are permitted to bring their own food, though no hard coolers or alcohol are allowed. Prices vary, but start for as little as $65 for those over the age of 13. According to Seastreak Ferries, its fleet boasts some of the largest, fastest and newest vessels out there.

www.seastreak.com 1-800-262-8743

For The Luxurious One

Ocean Place

Who doesn’t want a little rest and relaxation? Ocean Place is here to deliver both. Book a Swedish, deep-tissue or couples massage from the spa; opt for facials, body scrubs, hair treatment or nail care at the extensive salon; book a luxury stay that will take care of your every whim; or any combination of the above. Whether a one-night jaunt, or a multi-day retreat, Ocean Place will deliver serenity. This immaculate resort also houses a fitness center, beautiful beach, and access to both an indoor pool that’s open year-round, and a seasonal outdoor pool with spectacular ocean views. Nosh at Ocean Place’s premier Seaview Restaurant & Lounge, or opt for a happy-hour drink at the Tiki Bar, where fun is always on tap. The resort occasionally extends discounts and other special offers to guests, and constantly updates what it offers. For the latest on pricing, visit Ocean Place’s website.

www.oceanplace.com 1 Ocean Blvd.

ARTICLE BY LAUREN LOVELLO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA PHOX

On ‘Broadway’

CULINARY

At Alessandro Di fede’s core is a work ethic that’s second to none.

Known as Alex to friends, the Italianborn business owner has worked hard to earn everything in life, from his two restaurants, Bella’s Pizzeria and 21A on Broadway, to his health-forward vending machine business Revive Healthy Vending — and, of course, his iron-clad reputation as a fearless advocate for local businesses in Long Branch.

The driving force for the 51-year-old entrepreneur? The love he has for his family and his community.

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS

Alessandro was born in Sicily’s capital city of Palermo. The youngest of five children — he speaks warmly of his siblings Dominic, Joe, Connie and Patricia — his family did the best it could with what it had.

“I came from a poor family,” said Alessandro. “We never had a car. We lived in a two-bedroom house, pretty much, for many years.”

At the conclusion of middle school, Alessandro, then 13, decided to forgo his remaining education in favor of entering the workforce. One of his first jobs was at a butcher shop.

After his eldest brother Dominic, who he considers a mentor, moved to the U.S. — the first of the siblings to do so, but not the last — Alessandro began to visit in threemonth stints, the maximum he could stay, to work at his brother and sister-in-law’s pizzeria.

Eventually Alessandro, too, was able to move permanently to the U.S, and at 19, he earned his green card.

But the years of hard work didn’t stop there.

After working for his brother and sister-in-law, Alessandro began to put in hours at his sister’s pizzeria in West Long Branch. Both opportunities afforded him the ability to absorb all facets of restaurant ownership — and led to him meeting his future wife and business partner, Catherine.

“From my sister, I learned everything from the kitchen, how to make dinners, and I learned about all the ingredients,” said Alessandro. “From my brother, I learned how to make pizza. I learned front of house and customer service.”

With years of experience under his belt and a desire to keep challenging himself, Alessandro struck out to build something of his own.

BELLA’S PIZZERIA

In 1996, at just 23 years, Alessandro opened his first business, Bella’s Pizzeria, in partnership with his fatherin-law Mario Sciacca.

To get it off the ground, Alessandro worked seven days a week for countless hours, alongside a staff that consisted solely of him, his wife and three others.

“It took almost four years to build our business,” said Alessandro.

But the payoff has been worth it.

These days, Bella’s employs over 20 people. The 100pizza menu he concocted years prior still stands, as does Bella’s strong reputation for quality among the Long Branch community. Alessandro’s brother-in-law, Paul Sciacca, runs a tight ship at the Liberty Street establishment, and Alessandro is grateful he gets to call Paul a partner.

While Bella’s has been a success, Alessandro couldn’t have predicted he and his wife would open a premier restaurant decades later.

21A ON BROADWAY

In 2019, a friend approached Alessandro about a location that was in the process of being built. With 20-foot ceilings and an undeniably cosmopolitan vibe, Alessandro’s interest was piqued.

After talking to Catherine about the opportunity, doing some research, and chatting with landlord Tony Pereira — who Alessandro calls a “very good guy” — the deal was sealed, and in 2020 Alessandro signed a lease.

Initially conceptualized as a speakeasy lounge, Alessandro and Catherine decided to instead focus on an American-Mediterranean fare.

Despite a world-shuttering pandemic and crippling supply chain issues, the couple opened 21A on Broadway on Dec. 21, 2021, to much fanfare.

Since then, the restaurant — with its classy, upscale vibe — has become renowned for its use of high-end, quality ingredients. The menu is inspired by all regions of the Mediterranean, including Greece, Spain and Alessandro’s home island of Sicily. Can’t-miss cocktails are crafted by bar manager and mixologist Bryant Hoar, and top-notch service is provided by dedicated servers like Andy Polio. Live jazz music every Friday and Saturday, and a comedy night once a month, round out the elegant and fun ambiance.

Fan favorites at 21A on Broadway comprise of the Australian Wagyu New York Strip, the Texas Wagyu skirt steak, the classic branzino, and the cavatelli merguez, made with fresh pasta from Pastosa. Gluten free pasta is available, too, added Alessandro.

Despite using the best ingredients he can get his hands on, Alessandro wants money-conscious customers to know their comfort is at top of mind.

That’s why he created a three-course pre-fixe menu. Available Sunday through Wednesday for just $45 per person

plus tax, diners can choose from three appetizer options, five main course options, and three dessert options.

"The good reputation [21A gets] is because we're all about customer service and food quality. At the end of the day, that's what it's all about at 21A," said Alessandro, who repeatedly emphasized his love for Long Branch. "We're in a beautiful building, we give [our customers] good quality, I try to keep my prices reasonable ... we offer people a prefix menu to make them more comfortable."

HIS COMMUNITY SPIRIT

Alessandro, who shares four children with Catherine — Sofia, Emma, and Naila, and Massimo — is the first to shine the spotlight on others.

He is a massive advocate for first responders, and will donate food when he can to ensure they know they’re appreciated.

Among the many restaurants Alessandro credits with helping to build up Long Branch are Trama’s Trattoria, The Whitechapel Projects, Por Do Sol Sportsbar, Mar Belo, Piazza on the Pier, Johnny Piancone's, Attilio's Restaurant & Pizza, and Mix Lounge & Food Bar. His own place, 21A on Broadway, will mark its third anniversary this month.

“The community supports me,” says Alessandro, which is why he does what he can to support everyone else.

It’s ingrained in him, after all.

“I always believed things happen the right way, the right time, when you work hard and you do your best.”

Alessandro Di fede

Making Spirits

JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”

As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.

Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.

One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.

Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.

These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just

about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”

We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.

To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.

The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com

DECEMBER 2024

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

THROUGH DECEMBER 13TH

Holiday Toy Drive

Various drop-off locations

The city’s annual toy drive will run through Friday, Dec. 13 and people who can donate are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy for a child 10-and-under to one of three locations: The Chamber of Commerce, The Rec Center or Lakeland Bank in Ursula Plaza.

DECEMBER 1ST

Long Branch

Christmas Tree Lighting

Pier Village | 4:00 PM

Get in the holiday spirit with a festive celebration that will include performances by the Long Branch HS Marching Band & Dance Team, Tim McLoone and the Shirley’s, plus a surprise special guest. Here’s a hint: He wears a red suit and has a white beard.

DECEMBER

6TH

Arc of Monmouth's Winter Glow

The Addison Park | 6:00 PM

This year the Winter Glow celebrates the Arc of Monmouth's Diamond Jubilee, marking the 75th anniversary of the organization's inception, when a group of visionary parents formed a foundation to support people facing intellectual and developmental disabilities. Restaurateur Frank Brusco will be honored for his commitment and generosity to The Arc of Monmouth. For tickets, call: 732-493-1919.

BRING IN THIS AD FOR

*Cannot be combined with

EYE CARE SERVICES CONTACT LENSES

DESIGNER EYEGLASSES & SUNGLASSES

As an independent medical vision practice serving the New Jersey community for over 20 years, we offer personalized care with an emphasis on quality service. We have invested in the latest eye care technology to bring you the most comprehensive eye exams, with solutions to correct astigmatism, eliminate myopia, co-manage refractive surgery, and more!

TRI-LINGUAL IN ENGLISH / PORTUGUESE / SPANISH

Brighton Eye Care

112 Brighton Avenue

Long Branch, NJ 07740

Phone: 732-870-1088

Advanced Eye Professionals

225 Gordons Corner Road, Suite 1C

Manalapan Township, NJ 07726

Phone: 732-792-9800

DECEMBER 7TH

West Long Branch

Christmas Tree Lighting

Ronan Shirvanan Park | 4:00 PM

Start off the holiday season with skating, Santa and a Christmas tree lighting. West Long Branch Recreation presents its annual tree lighting and skating in the park! The switch on the lights will be flipped at 5:30p, and Santa will arrive immediately after that along with live entertainment, Nip & Tuck food truck, plus free hot chocolate and cookies.

DECEMBER 7TH

Photos with Santa Doggie Sweets | 12:00 PM

Stop by Doggie Sweets in Pier Village from noon to 3 p.m. to have your pooch pose with Santa. Appointments are highly encouraged and can be made via Eventbrite. There is a $20 charge.

DECEMBER 17TH

Holiday Express

Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre at the Count Basie Center | 7:30 PM

Tim McLoone will lead the band of 50 musicians and singers who will share their unique mix of traditional, gospel, and rock’n soul holiday music. The event is presented by Stillwell-Hansen, Inc., and proceeds will go towards spreading warmth and happiness to Holiday Express clients. Tickets for the show start $25 and are available at www.holidayexpress.com.

Dr. Sergio Peneiras Dr. Erica L. O’Lenick