Manasquan & Brielle January 2024

Manasquan +Brielle

January 2024

IMPROV FOR RON

HONORING A HERO

ROOTED IN BRIELLE

THE FERNICOLA FAMILY

SQUANATHON

EVERYBODY DANCE NOW!

Welcome, New Mayors!

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GREGORY RICE PRESENTS

#1 Agent in Manasquan, and #1 Agent in Brielle!

Greg Rice has been the top-selling Realtor in both Manasquan and Brielle for the past 15 YEARS! From 2008 - 2023, Greg closed more residential real estate than any other agent at any other brokerage in each Manasquan and Brielle!* He is recognized through multiple awards and designations as one of the top real estate agents in the entire United States and was recently ranked #27 in all of N.J. (over 60,000 agents) by Newsweek Magazine's "America's Best Realtors." Contact Greg today to discover for yourself what separates him from other agents and why he is the top-selling agent in Manasquan and Brielle. He is always available for a free, discreet, and confidential consultation on what your home could be worth in this market. * Based upon MLS Statistics - Most Closed Sales & Highest Sales Volume in each Brielle and Manasquan from 2008-2022

New 3-Lot Subdivision in Manasquan!

New to the Market!

And then there were THREE! Three new amazing opportunities to build your dream home in Manasquan! This fantastic waterfront property situated on Stockton Lake just 2 blocks from the beach has been subdivided into 3 buildable residential lots: 8 Ocean Ave is a uniquely oversized 50' x 250' LAKEFRONT lot with full CAFRA Approval to build, available for $1,750,000; 66 N. Potter Ave is also an oversized 50' x 165' LAKEFRONT lot with full CAFRA Approval to build, available for $1,500,000; And 6 Ocean Ave is a 50' x 110' Corner Lot that will have Lake views, available for $950,000. Prime location near the beach, Lake, Mallard Park, Glimmer Glass Marina, and just a few short blocks into downtown's shops and restaurants! Architectural plans by MB Hearn Architecture for 66 No. Potter Ave and 6 Ocean Ave Available to view for serious interests.

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66 N. Potter Ave, Manasquan 50' x 165' WATERFRONT Lot List Price: $1,500,000

8 Ocean Ave, Manasquan 50' x 250' WATERFRONT Lot List Price: $1,750,000

6 Ocean Ave, Manasquan

50' x 110' Corner Lot w/ Water Views List Price: $950,000

Under Contract

(917) 532-2735 cell (732) 449-2777 office gregorymrice@gmail.com www.GregoryRiceRealEstate.com

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JANUARY 2024

Contents

12 9

20 6

26 IN EVE RY ISSU E

30

4

Publisher’s Note WELCOME 2024!

6

Around Town BITE-SIZED UPDATES

26 Home Front 8 WAYS TO AVOID IDENTITY THEFT F E AT U R ES

9 12 16

Rooted in Brielle

Love of the Jersey Shore—one town in particular—is a family tradition for the Fernicolas.

Honoring a Hero With Humor

Improv for Ron is a fundraiser that pays tribute to former MHS student Ron Kubik.

Welcome, Mayors!

For both Manasquan and Brielle, the new year brings new leaders.

20 Everybody Dance Now!

28 Book Nook NEW READS FOR THE NEW YEAR 30 Life Outdoors FROM RAIL TO TRAIL 32 Photo Op HAPPY NEW YEAR!

O N T HE COVER

New mayors Frank Garruzzo of Brielle and Mike Mangan of Manasquan.

PHOTOGRAPH BY THERESA ARTIGAS

Every year, Manasquan High School’s storied dance-a-thon raises the roof to raise funds for kids in need.

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6 Branin Ave. - Proudly Offered at $1,925,000

New Construction in the Heart of Manasquan Enjoy living in this coastal community that has it all - scenic beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, exceptional surf aside the inlet, a 55-acre conservation for fishermen, kayakers and wildlife enthusiasts plus walking distance to a thriving downtown with unique shops, restaurants and theater.

This classic seashore design features a covered front porch, Gambrel roof with board & batten accents, CertainTeed cedar impression siding, Andersen 400 series windows & slider, Azek trim, and cultured stone accents. Interior boasts wide plank engineered hardwood floors, decorative moldings, gas fireplace, designer kitchen cabinetry with island, Quartz countertops, pantry, wet bar, and Stainless-Steel appliances.

Offering 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, finished basement with high ceilings & full bath, finished 3rd floor bonus room with wet bar, and a 2-car garage.

Two additional homes under construction on Branin Avenue and one on South Street. Call today to preview 6 Branin Ave!

Proposed Construction on Branin Avenue

Scan the QR Code now for a virtual tour of #6 Branin Avenue!

Jamie Paradise (C) 732-948-1809 | (O) 732-899-3338

Email: jparadise@jerseyshoreliving.com Website: ParadiseTeamNJ.com 526 Bay Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742  @theparadiseteam

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Welcome 2024!

Manasquan +Brielle MAGAZINE

PHOTOGRAPH BY THERESA ARTIGAS

Manasquan and Brielle.

Manasquan’s Mike Mangan and Brielle’s Frank Garruzzo are both longtime residents of their respective towns, have a strong passion for their hometowns and have the desire to keep the smalltown family vibes residents love. Wishing you both much success in 2024!

Our first family feature of 2024 showcases the Fernicola Family of Brielle. The Fernicolas have called Brielle home since the 1960s—they have one of the first houses built on Teaberry Lane. With deep roots embedded in Brielle, the Fernicolas are very involved in the community and plan to continue their devotion to the town for many generations to come.

We wrap up the first issue of 2024 with an article about the much-anticipated Squanathon. With over $85,000 raised at last year’s event, Manasquan High School students are working hard to raise even more money this year. Everything Squanathon does is solely for the kids! More details on how residents can contribute to this March event are included in the article.

Wishing everyone a happy and healthy 2024!

For many of us, this time of year is full of excitement. It presents us with a reset, fresh horizons and new goals to pursue.

On a personal note, after much thought, I’ve decided to pursue new goals myself and want to wish the new publisher of Manasquan + Brielle a huge success. The residents of these two towns are nothing short of amazing! Also, a very big thankyou to our advertisers, who make this publication possible; it has been a great pleasure working with you.

Our January issue starts by introducing the new mayors of both

Tracy Naimo Publisher

Editor & Publisher Tracy Naimo Group Publisher Jodi Bruker Art Director Sue Park Copy Editor Nancy Fass Writers Laurie Adamkiewicz Morgan Mechler Photographer Theresa Artigas WAINSCOT MEDIA Chairman Carroll V. Dowden President and CEO Mark Dowden VP, Group Publisher, Regional Thomas Flannery VP, Content Strategy Maria Regan Creative Director Kijoo Kim Editor Melissa Fiorenza Advertising Services Director Jacquelynn Fischer Operations Director Catherine Rosario Production Designer Chris Ferrante Print Production Manager Fern Meshulam Advertising Production Associate Griff Dowden Manasquan + Brielle magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Manasquan and Brielle, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Copyright 2024 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

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WHAT’S NEW

Around Town

HOLIDAY MAGIC Justin Willman of the popular Netflix show “Magic for Humans” visited WonderLand + Sea on December 1 to help welcome the magic of the holiday season. Justin and his crew performed that night at the Count Basie Theater in Red Bank.

Visit www.justinwillman.com for more info!

TREE LIGHTING FESTIVITIES

Manasquan’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Candy Cane Hunt took place on its rain date of Friday, December 8. As usual, it was a huge hit with kids and adults alike!

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UPCOMING EVENTS

LET THEM EAT CAKE! A cakewalk to benefit the Kindness Cafe is coming to Manasquan Community Center on February 2 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. A cakewalk is like musical chairs and the winners take home dessert! This is a fun family activity for a great cause.

DJ C-Bunny will be playing the tunes.

Please contact Tiffany Prime at atlast5@ hotmail.com if you’d like to be informed of the date tickets will go on sale.

A SUCCESSFUL TOY DRIVE

Manasquan’s Police Department’s Christmas Toy Drive was a huge success—it brought in over twice as many gifts as last year! A huge thank-you to the Sea Girt Police Department, Boy Scout Troop 59, the Manasquan Ministerium, and Father Bill and Pastor Mary, who were both present at the event and helped plan it from the very beginning.

MEET AUTHOR LAURIE FRANKEL! On Tuesday, January 30 meet author Laurie Frankel for a discussion of her latest novel, “Family Family,” at Brielle Public Library. Tickets include book discussion, meet and greet, and a copy of the book. Grab tickets at www.Eventbrite.com or Booktowne.com.

JANUARY 2024

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Get in Here!

Become a contributing writer or photographer for Manasquan + Brielle magazine.

To contribute, contact us at hello@manasquan-brielle.com.

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PHOTOGRAPHS BY THERESA ARTIGAS

The Fernicolas in the living room of John Fernicola Jr’s Teaberry Lane house, which was built by hand. Back row, left to right: Nicole (daughter), Theresa (wife) and John Fernicola Jr. Front row, left to right: Noah (grandson), Ashley (daughter), Amber (daughter) and Carter (grandson).

Rooted in Brielle Love of the Jersey Shore—one town in particular— is a family tradition for the Fernicolas.

BY LAURIE ADAMKIEWICZ

The Fernicola family has called

Brielle home for 35 years this year.

Originally from Short Hills, John Fernicola Jr. and his wife, Theresa, fell in love with Brielle and moved their family to a new home on Teaberry Lane. “Our hope,” says Ashley, one of their daughters, “is for all of us to end up living back in Brielle in the near future.”

John’s father, also named John, owned a motel in Point Pleasant called The Bel Air. He was a family man and enjoyed spending summer days in Brielle. He loved to surf at the alwayspopular Manasquan Inlet.

When John Sr. passed away, John Jr. took over the Bel Air Motel and renamed it the Amethyst Beach Motel.

The motel is still there and has been

family-owned and operated since 1962—more than 60 years. John, Theresa and their three daughters, Amber, Ashley and Nicole, all worked there. Ashley and Nicole, now both in their 30s, attended Brielle Elementary School and Manasquan High School. Amber went to St. Denis in Manasquan and then to St. Rose High School.

JANUARY 2024

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Left to right: Nicole, Theresa, Ashley and Amber at Nicole’s surprise birthday party that her fiancé, Daniela, threw for her in 2023.

Favorite Memories Amber lives in Brielle, where she is raising two boys who both attend Brielle Elementary School. She has very strong positive feelings about Brielle and knew she wanted to raise her children here, in the same close-knit community by the beach where she had spent her childhood years. Amber shared some of her fondest memories,

which include hanging out in town and grabbing pizza; full days with friends at the beach; bicycling to the beach with Ashley to catch the sunrise; and long bike rides along the trail to Allaire State Park. Today, her own children love the fact that they can bike to friends’ houses or go fishing, and there is always a friendly face along the way.

Holidays were and continue to be celebrated at the family home on Teaberry Lane. Amber recalls big holiday gatherings and the fire truck coming on Christmas Eve. Another family favorite was dining in many different restaurants, and spending time together. She recalls how her dad’s favorite spot is Riverside Café—he loves to sit outside and watch what’s happening at the inlet. The inlet is never lacking activity, whether it be the Coast Guard running drills or people fishing, walking their dogs, bicycling or just sitting on the benches looking out to the ocean and reflecting.

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Giving Back Amber is very active in Brielle.

She serves on the planning board and is a member of the Brielle Woman’s Club. She is involved with (and sponsors) various activities including Brielle North vs.

South. You can find her each year volunteering at Brielle Day and the yearly chili cook-off (Ashley won second place this year), in addition to other events. Halloween is a “big deal” here. There is a haunted hayride through one of the parks, and Amber refers to Halloween as a “big town party,” where homes are open to the community and everyone comes together. She, along with seven of her neighbors, plan and coordinate a block party, “Rock the Block,” for her neighborhood each year. It’s a fun event that people look forward to, and all proceeds raised are donated to help support the EMT volunteers who are always ready and willing to help someone in need.

You might recognize Amber’s name because she is a realtor with

Keller Williams Realty in Spring Lake. The love of her job is evident as she has been an NJ Circle of Excellence Award Recipient for six consecutive years. Amber has over 11 years of real estate experience and recognizes that both buying and selling a home involves many important decisions and careful considerations.

Bringing a family into the community she loves so much is very fulfilling, as she knows the new family will be lucky to call the Jersey Shore home. The flexibility of her real estate position has allowed her to be there for her boys.

Acknowledging the many challenges of being a single parent, Amber is grateful to the residents of Brielle and says, “When you have a village of supportive and kind people around you, it makes things easier.”

Clockwise from top left: Ashley and her husband, Tyler Printz, who is a police officer in Bay Head. Amber and Ashley at Brielle’s chili cook-off—Ashley came in 2nd place! Nicole and her fiancé, Daniela, with their two children, Jet and Dani.

Laurie Adamkiewicz, local writer and photographer, loves the smell of the ocean and the sound of seagulls. A mom of two, she is currently writing her first children’s book.

JANUARY 2024

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Honoring a Hero With Humor Improv for Ron is a fundraiser that pays tribute to former MHS student Ron Kubik.

BY MORGAN MECHLER

Improv for Ron, which raises scholarship funds for current students, was started as a way to honor Sgt. Ron Kubik, a former student who was killed in the line of duty.

Kubik loved making people laugh and took improv and acting classes while at MHS.

INTERVIEW WITH

HARRY HARVEY Manasquan High School teacher, author and creator of Improv for Ron

Every year, Improv for Ron is held

at Manasquan High School (MHS) to raise scholarship funds for current students and pay tribute to a former student—Sgt. Ron Kubik, who was killed in the line of duty in 2010. The event is run by two MHS teachers, Harry Harvey and James Mawn. We spoke with Harvey about the improv show and about Ron, his former student.

Aside from being an MHS teacher

and improv instructor, Harvey is a published author. His middlegrade novel is “The Summer My Grandmother’s Yard Tried to Kill Me,” a neighborhood adventure filled with humor, mystery and a message of acceptance. It is an eco-friendly tale, told from the point of view of a differently abled protagonist who readers of any age will love. It is available in local bookstores and on Amazon.

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What inspired you to start Improv for Ron? I wanted to find a unique way to capture Ron’s personality. Ron loved Manasquan High School and his friends and family here.

He loved my acting class, doing improv and making people laugh.

People often use humor as a way to heal from trauma or loss. There have been studies proving laughter is truly the best medicine. Laughter releases endorphins in your brain, responsible for helping relieve stress and pain. The laughs that come from improv remind you that despite sadness and grief, there’s still good in the world and it is still possible to feel joy. Improv is also one way to experience mindfulness or to be present in the moment, play fun games and possibly forget about your problems for a little bit of time.

So, with the help of James Mawn, my friend, fellow English teacher and fellow improv instructor, we came up with the idea to have the students put on an improv show in honor of someone, Ron, who made me laugh every day.

Who else helps you run this?

James is the producer of the show and he is absolutely invaluable!

He handles ticket sales, programs, the house, as well as planning the improv setlist. Ron was his student, too, so this evening also holds a special meaning to him. Current and former students come to improvise and to lend a helping hand to the show, but most importantly, MHS students help with the advertising, promoting and encouraging family and friends to come.

“Ron was larger than life. He had a presence that was noticed the minute he walked into a room. He was funny and fun to be around.”

- Harry Harvey, MHS teacher and creator of Improv for Ron

JANUARY 2024

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Can you explain the background behind Improv for Ron? Improvisational comedy, or improv, is acting without a script. It is about creating a scene, a dialogue or a story in real time. Improv for Ron is about taking a risk, putting yourself out there and being vulnerable. It is trusting your partners and fellow actors on stage.

Ron took the greatest risk there is—to fight for his country. He trusted his fellow soldiers and went to war to fight for our freedom. On the battlefield, he courageously put the lives of others before his own and sacrificed himself to save the lives of women and children.

How would you describe Ron? Ron was larger than life. He had a presence that was noticed the minute he walked into a room. He was funny and fun to be around. He didn’t care what other people thought about him. He loved to play guitar in his band. He loved to act and make people laugh. He was a great talker and would strike up a conversation with anyone. He was an athlete who played football and wrestled here at Manasquan. On the field or on the mat, he was there for his teammates, motivating and cheering them on to victory. He believed in everyone, and he always saw the good side in people and would stick up for someone in their time of need. I imagine Ron brought these same qualities with him to the battlefield.

He referred to his fellow soldiers as his teammates.

Can anyone participate in this event?

To participate in the event, you have to have experience in improv. Improv is difficult. It is not something most people can do without some kind of formal training. Students take acting classes or improv classes with me in the high school or with Shore Fun Improv through Manasquan Recreation. We also have a lot of alumni who come back to perform.

These students go on to different colleges, and many keep performing in one way or another. Some of them run their own improv college team. DJ DeSomma ran an improv team at TCNJ. He brings his talents back and performs here every year. Many MHS graduates come back to improvise that night year after year, and sometimes there are surprise special guests or teachers who hit the stage to show their support for Ron.

When did Improv for Ron start? How many have there been?

Ron was killed in the line of duty on April 23, 2010, and the first Improv for Ron came to life in May 2012.

We have hosted a show every year since, except 2020, when the pandemic prohibited us from having it. However, we made up for it the following year with “Improv for Ron: COVID Edition 2021.”

IMPROV FOR RON 2024 Improv for Ron 2024 will be Friday, January 19, at the Jack Nicholson Theatre, Manasquan High School from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased ahead of time or at the door. Encourage everyone you know to come out and see this special event.

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How many participants/ actors act in Improv for Ron? Every year we have a different number of participants, but it is usually anywhere between 15 and 20 players.

What is the usual turnout for Improv for Ron? When we first started, it was mostly people who knew Ron and wanted to come and show their support. Every year the event draws more and more attention, so the attendance has been growing. We see students (past and present), friends and families of the improvisers, community members, and friends and family of Ron. All pack the theater to witness the players perform their craft, have some laughs and pay tribute to a true hero, Sgt. Ron Kubik.

How would you describe the atmosphere in the Jack Nicholson Theatre on the night of the show?

Electric! Positive! High energy! Lots of anticipation from cast members and audience members. However, the reason we are there is never forgotten. Eileen Daly, Ron’s mom, attends every year and usually addresses the crowd reminding everyone of who her son was and how he loved to laugh.

How much money have you raised?

The Sgt. Ronald A. Kubik Memorial Scholarship has given away almost $30,000 to deserving students. The denominations of the scholarships are dependent on the amount of money raised throughout the year. The number of recipients chosen also varies each year. It is based on the number of deserving applications submitted. It is usually between two and four, however, last year we celebrated our biggest group yet and awarded six scholarships. Improv for Ron is one way funds are raised. Other funds are directly donated by the military, family and friends or made anonymously. Two of our most meaningful donors are Doug and Christine O’Neill. Doug was part of the 75th Ranger Regiment and with Ron on that night when Ron sacrificed himself to save Doug’s life.

What can you share about the Sgt. Ronald A. Kubik Memorial Scholarship?

There are many scholarships that applaud a student’s academic and athletic abilities, but this scholarship is offered to a student who is upbeat, funny and willing to take risks. Someone wellrounded, adventurous and enthusiastic. Someone who participates in many different types of activities, enrolls in a variety of classes, speaks up for justice and makes every classroom they enter a better place. Ron’s mom personally reads each essay and chooses an applicant who most reminds her of her son: his personality, his character, his enthusiasm for life and his selflessness.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

There is a plaque that hangs in the hallway here that bears his words: “We are here on earth, and we have the opportunity to do something truly great. We are the youth. We are the future of this nation and this world. We can change things. We can make things better.”

This is how Ron lived his life, here at Manasquan High School and on the battlefield.

He was always looking for ways to make a difference. “Be a warrior; not a follower,” he told his mother in one of his letters home. He would be honored and inspired by how the students of Manasquan High School today are trying to make a difference and be true warriors.

JANUARY 2024

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PHOTOGRAPH BY THERESA ARTIGAS

New mayors Frank Garruzzo of Brielle and Mike Mangan of Manasquan

Welcome, Mayors!

For both Manasquan and Brielle, the new year brings new leaders.

BY LAURIE ADAMKIEWICZ

Mike Mangan of Manasquan and Frank Garruzzo of Brielle are stepping up from their previous positions as councilmen to be mayors. Both men are longtime residents of their respective towns and feel strongly about keeping the smalltown family atmosphere residents know and love.

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Meet Frank Garruzzo

PHOTOGRAPH BY THERESA ARTIGAS

Frank Garruzzo was raised in Brielle, where his father

owned a family business. He attended Brielle Elementary School, St. Denis Grammar School and St. Rose High School, and holds an accounting degree from Bonaventure University.

Garruzzo and his wife of 33 years, Darcy, were married at St. Denis. They have three grown children, all married and in their 30s, and one grandchild. Frank has been a lifelong member of St. Denis and all three children went to grammar school there as well.

Frank says his political career began after school when he got to know the mayor and was asked to become a member of the planning board. A seat became open on the council.

He was interviewed and eventually filled the unexpired term of a councilman. Frank has spent his entire 25-year business career in finance and is currently a Senior Vice President and Family Wealth Director at Morgan Stanley. Before working at Morgan Stanley, Garruzzo owned and operated a successful restaurant in Brielle.

Garruzzo’s biggest concern for Brielle is being able to maintain the quality of life the town offers and its residents have come to expect while controlling costs. It’s not an easy task, he says, with many factors to be considered. Garruzzo is in favor of “shared services,” such as sharing municipal court with Manasquan. He would like to see more of this when the arrangement benefits all involved.

Frank and his family enjoy volunteering for town events, Boy Scouts and church. In his free time, you can find Garruzzo watching a football or basketball game.

JANUARY 2024

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Meet Mike Mangan

PHOTOGRAPH BY THERESA ARTIGAS

Mike Mangan is a Manasquan local, and his roots run deep. His grandparents first moved here in the 1960s, and his grandmother was on the borough council.

Mangan says he’s been involved in Manasquan politics “since he was born.”

He holds fond memories of visiting his grandmother in Borough Hall, where the administrative staff would treat him to some candy.

His mother was an English teacher at Manasquan High School, and Mangan would attend MHS sporting events with her. The unique athletic traditions of MHS made an impact on him beginning at a young age, he says. Mangan attended the Marine Academy of Science and Technology (MAST) on Sandy Hook. He then received his bachelor’s degree in communication from George Washington University.

Being introduced to politics early paid off for Mangan. He won his first election one month after graduating from college. In 2006, at the age of 22, Mangan became the youngest person ever to be elected to the Manasquan Borough Council. He has now been on the council for 16 years.

Mangan owns a commercial construction business headquartered in Manasquan. “One of the best ways of doing business is to know how to bring people together and accomplish shared objectives,” he says. As mayor, Mangan would like to increase communication between the borough and its residents.

Mangan and his wife of 13 years, Dana, have three young boys and are eager to give them the small-town values that Manasquan has to offer.

Laurie Adamkiewicz, a local writer and photographer, loves the smell of the ocean and the sound of seagulls. A mom of two, she is currently writing her first children’s book.

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“One of the best ways of doing business is to know how to bring people together and accomplish shared objectives.”

- Mike Mangan, Mayor of Manasquan

JANUARY 2024

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Everybody

Dance Now! Every year, Manasquan High School’s storied dance-a-thon raises the roof to raise funds for kids in need.

BY MORGAN MECHLER

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Each year, moments before dancers walk off the dance floor after 12 hours on their feet, Squanathon committee members line the stage with poster boards in hand and, one by one, reveal the amount raised for the year.

What’s everyone’s favorite night of the year to hit the dance floor? It’s Squanathon, of course!

Squanathon is Manasquan High School’s annual nonprofit 12-hour dance-a-thon, where all proceeds raised go directly to children within the sending district who have been diagnosed with cancer or other illnesses. Squanathon also supports medical research.

The tradition was begun in 2010 by two former MHS teachers, Pat McKenzie and Paul Battaglia, who shared a mutual love for the community—and who both had ties to Penn State University and THON, the largest student-run nonprofit dance-a-thon in the nation.

Our local mini version of THON is now run by Mrs. Ryan Basaman and Allyson Griffith, and it continues to be made possible by MHS student volunteers.

Over the last 14 years, Squanathon has grown significantly from its first mini event.

In total, it has raised more than $1,175,000 for local children. It’s an event that makes giving back to the community and raising awareness around pediatric illnesses a unique, educational and positive experience for all. And just like THON’s purpose, everything Squanathon does is solely for the kids.

Last year, there were close to 300 dancers.

The committee is hoping to top that number this year.

Dancing ’Til Dawn So how does it work? Dancers are not allowed to sit down! Fortunately for them, those 12 hours are filled with different ways to keep them motivated and moving.

The MHS gym is filled with popcorn and cotton candy machines, face painting

stations, a photo booth, bounce houses, inflatables, a DJ booth and so much more.

Local bands perform, the high school drama club performs and Just Dance takes place all night long.

Every hour, local restaurants come and donate platters of food for the dancers to make sure they maintain their stamina.

In addition, guest speakers come to the event to share their personal stories of how pediatric illness affects their lives. For the past two years, Jim Raffone, from the JAR of Hope organization, has spoken about his son who was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy and how he has been working to raise awareness for the past 10 years.

MHS alumni who have personal experiences battling an illness also come and speak about their journeys and serve as an inspiration for attendees.

JANUARY 2024

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Squanathon 2024 is on March 22. You can help support children with cancer by donating at www.squanathon.com or participating in fundraising events that lead up to the big night.

Always in Action While Squanathon is best known for the 12-hour dance-a-thon, it is so much more than just one night. The dance committee, made up of handpicked juniors and seniors, work hard to promote the event all year long with activities and fundraisers.

They come up with the yearly theme (which is kept top secret until the big night), recruit new participants, secure sponsors, obtain prizes and educate everyone on what Squanathon is truly about. Committee members can be seen at different events throughout the year, such as the Manasquan Inlet Tug of War, weekly MHS sporting events, MHS Open House and more. Participants are also required to raise a minimum of $200 in order to dance.

Bake sales are held after school, and local restaurants like Jimmy’s Cucina hold “dineto-donates”—where a portion of the profits on these days are donated and included in the grand total. Squanathon also makes apparel including hoodies, crewnecks, caps and pajamas—all sporting the unique Squanathon logo. These items are on sale at local events as well as at the dance-a-thon for visitors to purchase.

Additionally, one of the biggest and most attended fundraisers is The Squanathon Social. The Social is an evening event hosted at a local venue with gift baskets donated by families and businesses. It is an opportunity for working parents and community members to get together with friends, have something to eat and drink, and possibly win a prize for a great cause. This year’s social is January 12 at The Salty Whale.

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Worth Every Second All of the hard work and dedication put in by the committee members and dancers culminates at the event.

Moments before the dancers walk out of the MHS gym doors, the committee members line the stage with poster boards in hand and, one by one, reveal the amount raised for the year. Last year, the grand total was $85,044.69!

After a long night of giving back and knowing they made a difference, the Squanathon dancers can show the entire community what makes Manasquan High School and the Manasquan community so special.

Participants help save lives, bring smiles and lend helping hands to families nearby. Dancers never forget why they are doing what they are doing.

This year’s Squanathon is on March 22. You, too, can make a difference and help the kids by donating at www.squanathon.com or by participating in any of the events leading up to the big night. Make sure to follow @squanathon on Instagram for clues about this year’s theme, updates about dine-to-donates, our Squanathon Social and other ways you can get involved. Remember, it’s all for the kids!

Morgan Mechler is a senior at Manasquan High School. She is co-editor of the newspaper and captain of the cheer team.

Jumping for joy at the positive results of a previous year’s Squanathon. The event is held each year at Manasquan High School to raise money for children with cancer and other serious illnesses.

JANUARY 2024

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Reach

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HOME FRONT

8

Ways to Avoid

Identity Theft Expert tips for protecting your identity in 2024 and beyond PRESENTED BY MARY PUCCIARELLI, MBA

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Like many people, you might believe

that your identity could never be stolen.

Then, one day, you go to the mailbox, open your monthly credit card statement, and see a host of charges made to your account in a country you’ve never visited. Millions of Americans fall victim to this type of identity theft every year.

Given that identity theft is so prevalent, what can you do to safeguard yourself and your family? While we can’t guarantee these tips will keep your personal information safe from fraudsters, we can recommend several best practices that are worth implementing.

BE AWARE OF POTENTIAL

1 IMPERSONATORS. Don’t give

out personal information over the phone unless you’re the one who initiates contact or you’re absolutely certain about with whom you are speaking. If a caller requests personal information, hang up, look up the phone number of the business the caller claims to represent and dial the number to verify the caller’s identity.

The same advice applies to any suspicious emails you receive. Verify who is sending the message by calling the organization that supposedly sent the email, and don’t click on any links or attachments that come with the message.

SAFELY DISPOSE OF

2 PERSONAL INFORMATION.

Before you discard a computer, back up your data and delete all the personal information on it. Deleting is not sufficient protection, however, so it’s best to also use a program meant for wiping or overwriting the entire hard drive. Also, consider removing the hard drive and having it securely destroyed. To do this, you can either break the circuit board in half, or use a certified data disposal service and ask for a certificate of destruction. Before disposing of a mobile device, transfer the contents you want to retain and then permanently wipe the device. Instructions for a data wipe of your specific device can be found via an online search. Be sure to

remove the memory and SIM card before recycling, selling or giving the device away. You’ll also want to shred documents you no longer use. Old credit cards, bank statements and cash advance applications should all be destroyed.

ENCRYPT YOUR DATA.

3 Encryption prevents unauthorized

access to digital software. In addition to installing encryption software to protect your laptop in case it’s lost or stolen, keep your browser secure by looking in the address bar for a lock symbol. When it appears, it means your information is being securely transmitted. In addition: Never make credit card purchases on unsecured websites whose addresses begin with the letters HTTP. Always look for secure sites, which begin with “HTTPS.” KEEP PASSWORDS PRIVATE. Use strong passwords—at least 12 characters long with combinations of uppercase and lowercase letters, numerals and symbols—and be sure you use a different one for each account. Don’t use personal information or words found in the dictionary, and consider using a password manager to autogenerate and store your passwords.

4

OVERSHARE ON 5 DON’T SOCIAL MEDIA. The more

personal information you post about yourself, your family and your children, the easier it is for criminals to potentially guess your security questions. They may even be able to figure out where you live and when you are home. In addition to using your account settings to limit who can view your posts and photos, keep the following tips in mind. Never accept requests from people you haven’t met or don’t know personally; they could simply be posing as a friend. Never post your full name, address, Social Security number (SSN), account numbers, names of your children or other family addresses on public websites.

READ PRIVACY POLICIES.

6 These policies tell you how the site or

company with which you’re doing business maintains the information you share and what is collected and stored. The policies also explain how the company uses the information, who accesses stored information and whether your data is provided to third parties. If you don’t see or understand a site’s privacy policy, consider doing business elsewhere.

SECURE YOUR SSN. Before

7 sharing your SSN, ask questions about

why a vendor or organization needs it, how it will be used, how it is protected and what happens if you decline to give it out.

CHECK YOUR CREDIT. The Fair

8 and Accurate Credit Transactions Act

requires the three major credit monitoring agencies (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) to offer consumers a free report once per year. This means that you can conduct a credit check every four months. We recommend performing a minimum of three credit checks each year to make sure all the information is correct, you are familiar with all open accounts and you verify all entries in the inquiries section. There are numerous companies around that will monitor your credit, your accounts, the Internet and social media for suspicious or criminal activity.

These companies will alert you about changes to your credit—one of the first signs of identity theft. For additional fees, they will also monitor your children’s SSNs. These are only a few tips to help keep your identity safe. For a host of options, visit the Federal Trade Commission website. And if you ever fall victim to identity theft—or suspect you may be a victim—check out identitytheft.gov for valuable guidance and resources for your specific situation.

We’re always concerned about information security and we strive to keep you updated on new security threats as well as potential solutions to help protect your information.

If you have any questions, please contact our office by phone or email.

Mary Pucciarelli, MBA, is a financial advisor with Reilly Financial Group LLC, located at 3 Amboy Avenue in Metuchen. She can be reached at 908-987-7810 or maryp@reillyfinancialgroup.com.

Securities and advisory services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network®, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser. Fixed insurance products and services are separate from and not offered through Commonwealth Financial Network.®

JANUARY 2024

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BOOK NOOK

New Reads for the New Year!

As 2024 kicks off, enjoy these upcoming books.

BY BOOKTOWNE STAFF

A new year means new books at BookTowne! Here are a few titles we have been lucky enough to read ahead of their release dates. We can’t wait to share them with you.

“Family Family”

“Leaving”

By Laurie Frankel (Available 1/23/24)

By Roxana Robinson (Available 2/13/24)

The new book by the author of “This Is How It Always Is” and “One, Two, Three” focuses on adoption and all the complications of families of all types.

BookTowne is excited to host Frankel on January 30, 2024, at 6 p.m. at the Brielle Public Library. She will be in conversation with author Lauren Grodstein. Tickets at www.BookTowne.com.

“Martyr!”

By Kaveh Akbar (Available 1/23/24) A “poetically” written book that deals with family already known and family finally found. Addiction and love.

Kaveh’s writing is ALIVE on every page. It is a book for those who want to experience all the feels. An enjoyable read! – Peter

“The Women”

By Kristin Hannah (Available 2/6/24) We have read about the terrible problems men experienced upon returning from Vietnam, but this is the first I’ve read about the experience of women. Kristen Hannah tells a tragically moving story of the nurses in the war and after. Their friendships were truly critical in surviving painful experiences but never so important as on their return to the States—to a country divided by the war in general and lack of understanding of the role played by women. – Rita

Absolutely absorbing—I just couldn’t put this one down. The characters were so richly drawn that I felt I was in the story with them. A story of finding love when you least expect it and its consequences. What do we owe each other and ourselves? How much should we sacrifice for our family? This will be an excellent book club pick. – Stacey “The Hunter”

By Tana French (Available 3/5/24) Another excellent mystery from Tana French! A follow-up to “The Searcher” (but easily read as a standalone mystery), it continues the story of American ex-cop Cal Hooper, who is now living in a remote Irish village. An excellently written story of ruthless con men, a revengeful teen and the perfectly drawn Irish villagers who must decide how far they’ll go to protect their community and families.

A perfect vacation read! – Stacey “James”

By Percival Everett (Available 3/19/24) This book took me on a Mississippi adventure from page one and led to a fantastic ending. It’s the retelling of “Huckleberry Finn” through the eyes of the slave Jim. Compassionately written. Totally recommend! - Peter

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Inspiring Creativity and Confidence!

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Located in the heart of Downtown Manasquan, our charming “Boutique Style” school provides kids specialized one-on-one attention and an experience like no other. Each student leaves our school better than when they came in and parents see us empowering their children each and every day.

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Fall Dance Programs Now Open!

Empower your child with confidence and ambition this fall with our exciting fall dance classes.

Ocean Dance Force 10 South St., Manasquan, NJ 08736 732.223.8444 | www.OceanDanceForce.com

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Let’s Get Social!

Join our online community.

 @manasquan.brielle.magazine Have a photo or story you think should be featured?

Want to learn more about advertising in our pages?

Contact us at hello@manasquan-brielle.com

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LIFE OUTDOORS

From Rail to Trail How New Jersey’s first cycling trail came to be

The Edgar Felix Bicycle Path, catering to walkers, runners, bikers and dogs, boasts a rich history dating back to 1971 as New Jersey’s first cycling trail. Originally, it was part of the Freehold Agricultural Railroad, operating under the Pennsylvania Railroad.

In 1966, a section running through Manasquan-Farmingdale was abandoned.

That’s when Manasquan resident Edgar Felix decided to make a difference. After he retired, Felix took up bicycle riding as his new hobby. Previously a radio magazine editor in the 1930s and then an official with AT&T, Felix’s new “job” was lobbying his hometown in hopes of acquiring a section of the abandoned rail bed.

In April 1966, an ordinance granted Manasquan $30,000 to purchase the portion of the rail bed going through town.

This was the beginning! The first two miles of what we know as “the bike path” were completed and named in Felix’s honor.

Over time, the path has expanded and been improved for safety.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY LAURIE ADAMKIEWICZ PHOTOGRAPHY

BY LAURIE ADAMKIEWICZ

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Family-Friendly Fun Today, the 5.4-mile-long Edgar Felix Bicycle Path stretches from Manasquan to Allaire State Park. It’s a flat, family-friendly route that incorporates benches for those who need a rest or simply want to stop and enjoy the outdoors. The diverse scenery includes native plants and trees, a residential area, a golf course, preserved farms and open spaces.

Path-goers can also relax at a gazebo, have a bite to eat at the Allenwood General Store or even walk or ride over the Garden State Parkway via two wooden bridges.

No matter the season or use, the Edgar Felix Bike Path—which is part of the New Jersey Capital to Coast Trail, a route that stretches from Trenton to the oceanfront in Manasquan—is a welcoming break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Laurie Adamkiewicz, local writer and photographer, loves the smell of the ocean and the sound of seagulls. A mom of two, she is currently writing her first children’s book.

JANUARY 2024

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PHOTO OP

Happy New Year!

May you catch whatever you fish for in 2024. Photograph of the Melissa K. by Manasquan resident Peter J. Cole.

Have a great image for Photo Op? Submit your high-resolution shot to Tracy.Naimo@manasquan-brielle.com.

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Design Line Kitchens remembers founder, Matthew Egan.

We are deeply saddened to share the passing of a true industry pioneer, Matt Egan. His legacy in the world of design and craftsmanship will forever be remembered.

Design Line’s founder, Matthew Egan, began his career as a cabinet apprentice in Ireland.

Matt came to the United States in 1963, became an American citizen in 1970, and started Design Line Kitchens in 1976. Working out of Spring Lake Heights, NJ, Design Line grew into its current 10,000 square foot showroom and factory in Sea Girt, NJ. Matt’s work will continue to inspire and leave an indelible mark on the industry. Rest in peace, Matt Egan.

CUSTOM CABINETRY | DESIGN SERVICES | INSTALLATION 2127 HWY 35 | SEA GIRT, NJ

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PH. 732.449.6760

11/20/23 12/19/23 9:04 9:30 AM