Manasquan & Brielle November 2023

Manasquan +Brielle

November 2023

GET A GRIP! TUG-OF-WAR ROUNDUP

MAXIMIZE

COLLEGE VISITS SHOP SMALL

GIFT BIG

Inside the Thanksgiving Rivalry

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Photos Courtesy of Popovitch Builders

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www.idealfabrications.com 304 Squankum Road, Farmingdale, NJ Owner: Dave Zupko, Manasquan Resident 10/13/23 10/20/23 10:56 2:18 PM AM

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 - 2022, 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 55,000 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. "...We could not be more pleased with this process from start to finish.

Greg is friendly, professional, hardworking and smart. His marketing approach was first class, his negotiating skills fantastic. There was no request he could not handle. We recommend him without reservations...."

- McManus Family, Seller, Manasquan ...In my life, I have hired four real estate agents. Greg Rice is, by a very wide margin, the best. His attention to you and overall customer service is extraordinary.I can not say enough good things.

- L. Matino, Buyer, Manasquan "....My wife and I interviewed numerous realtors to help us sell our Brielle home, and it was clear to us within a few minutes of meeting Greg that he would be our choice...Greg's preparation, presentation materials, knowledge of the local market, and his contagious enthusiasm, and professionalism stood out to us. My wife and I can not recommend Greg highly enough...."

- Tim Conway, Seller, Brielle

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

Just Some of Greg's Recent Sales

Closed!

57 Beachfront, Manasquan Closed!

45 Virginia Ave, Manasquan

142 N. Main St, Manasquan

Represented Seller Sold Price $3,450,000

Represented Seller Sold Price $1,650,000

Represented Seller Sold Price $1,750,000

920 Cole Dr, Brielle

1015 Shore Dr, Brielle

1114 Shore Dr, Brielle

520 Union Ln, Brielle

Represented Seller Sold Price $4,500,000

Represented Seller Sold Price $2,255,000

Represented Seller Sold Price $3,550,,000

Represented Seller Sold Price $950,000

265 Perrine Blvd, Manasquan

34 Fisk St, Manasquan

Represented Seller Sold Price $3,100,000

Represented Buyer Sold Price $1,660,000

1102 Shore Dr, Brielle Closed!

Closed!

Represented Seller Sold Price $3,800,000

Closed!

Closed!

Closed!

Closed!

Closed!

Closed!

* Based upon MLS Statistics - Most Closed Sales & Highest Sales Volume in each Brielle and Manasquan from 2008-2022

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NOVEMBER 2023

Contents

20

14

30

18 IN EVE RY ISSU E

10

4

Publisher’s Note GRATEFUL FOR THIS PLACE

6

Around Town BITE-SIZED UPDATES

10 Q&A MEET THE NEW MHS BAND DIRECTOR F E AT U R ES

14 18

The War at the Shore

It’s almost time for the annual football game that serves up a generous helping of both rivalry and revelry.

Shop Small, Gift Big

By visiting these locally owned online businesses, you’ll spread joy to your loved ones and to our area’s entrepreneurs.

20 Get a Grip!

The Manasquan Inlet Tug of War returned for another year of friendly competition.

24 Make the Most of College Visits

Planning to tour college campuses in the coming weeks?

Heed this advice from local expert Tony Carnahan.

26 Home Front HELP NOURISH OUR NEIGHBORS 28 Book Nook GET IN THE GAME 30 Life Outdoors RUNNING FOR A CAUSE 32 Photo Op A THANK-YOU TO FIRST RESPONDERS

O N T HE COVER

Austin Griffith, a senior at Manasquan High School and quarterback of the school’s football team.

PHOTOGRAPH

BY RAY RICH PHOTOGRAPHY

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Grateful for This Special Place

PHOTOGRAPH BY THERESA ARTIGAS

march at Squan Plaza to end up at the famous bonfire in the Fourth Avenue parking lot.

Although the Manasquan Inlet Tug of War’s fifth face-off resulted in a loss for Manasquan, it ended up being an exciting and sunny fall day at the Inlet.

Large crowds lined both sides of the inlet, and there was great entertainment and fun activities for both adults and kids. The local community was out in full force for this year’s Tug! Starting your holiday shopping? Please check out the local businesses gift guide. Shop local this holiday season! Thank you to our M+B residents for supporting the local businesses in our community. I am proud to live here and cherish the residents and organizations that help make both towns truly remarkable places to call home.

A huge thank-you to our advertising partners who support us in our efforts to create this magazine and deliver it to your doorsteps each month. They help bring the inspiring stories and cheerful news from M+B directly to you.

This holiday season as we prepare to gather with our loved ones, and in the true spirit of Thanksgiving, let’s set time aside to consider what makes life meaningful and stop to reflect on those blessings. Happy Thanksgiving.

With Thanksgiving and the holidays upon us, it’s my wish for each of you to be surrounded by those you love and those who love you. In the hurly-burly of this time of year, the greatest gift we can give ourselves is a little peace and the time to be present with the joys of the season. This issue includes stories about some of our local seasonal joys.

For Manasquan and Brielle, the “kickoff ” to the holiday season always begins the night before Thanksgiving when the community comes together and lines the streets to watch the annual Thanksgiving parade. Decorated floats, student council members, the homecoming court and a variety of Manasquan High School sports teams and local organizations begin their

Tracy Naimo Publisher

Manasquan +Brielle MAGAZINE

Editor & Publisher Tracy Naimo Group Publisher Jodi Bruker Art Director Sue Park Copy Editor Nancy Fass Writers Laurie Adamkiewicz Morgan Mechler Violet Nolan Photographers Laurie Adamkiewicz 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 2023 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

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Manasquan +Brielle To advertise, contact Tracy Naimo at Tracy.Naimo@manasquan-brielle.com or 732-379-2485.

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WHAT’S NEW

Around Town

RICK TRIMBLE RINK Local sports coach Rick Trimble passed away last March, leaving a legacy spanning numerous roles, including husband, father, teacher, author of 17 books and organizer of hockey camps, ice skating clinics and more. Under his leadership, Manasquan High School formed its first-ever varsity hockey team. Trimble even helped with the construction of the town’s first street hockey rink. On October 6, the inline rink was dedicated and renamed in his honor.

READY, SET, RACE The 14th Brielle Coaster Derby took place on October 1, uniting parents, kids, sponsors and township employees for a day of community fun.

Organized by Steve Speicher, the event featured 32 cars driven by students from grades two through eight—with incredible designs ranging from an Irish flag to a shark. Thanks to generous sponsors, attendees received shirts and prizes.

Don’t miss it next year!

Photo, from left to right: Chase Cali, fourth place; Rocco Bellusci, third place; Liam Lafferty, first place; and Jack Shortledge, second place, standing in front of Speicher.

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Reel Talk The Manasquan Fishing Club hosts three fishing courses each year through the Manasquan Recreation Department. On October 7, the “Introduction to Fall Surf Fishing” course had its first beach outing. For some students, it was their first time surf fishing. Though only one fish was caught (a fluke, by Deb Stroff, which was returned to the water unharmed), all enjoyed the experience.

Clockwise from top: Manasquan Fishing Club (MFC) member Joe Choma instructs a student on how to cast her line. Course leader and MFC member Paul Shafer discusses fishing techniques with a student.

An elated Deb Stroff with her fluke.

NOVEMBER 2023

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WHAT’S NEW

Around Town UPCOMING EVENTS

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11

LEARN CPR Manasquan Recreation and Manasquan First Aid Squad have teamed up to offer “Friends and Family” CPR classes, which also cover basic first aid for choking victims. The next 90-minute class will be held at the Manasquan First Aid Building at 65 Broad Street on November 11 from 9 to 11 a.m. and is open to anyone (for free!) age 13 and up.

Class size is limited to 12, but an additional session will be added if needed. Be sure to register on the CommunityPass platform at www.manasquan-nj.gov. Questions? Contact Erik Ertle at (732) 223-0544 X260 or eertle@manasquan-nj.gov.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9

BREASTFEEDING CLASS Expecting, or know someone who is? An adults-only prenatal breastfeeding class offered by Meghan Noonan of Coastal Mom and Baby Support, LLC, will be held on November 9 at 6 p.m. at the Brielle Library.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2024

CASINO NIGHT Join the Brielle Education Foundation for a fun Casino Night on February 1 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Spring Lake Manor. Roll the dice, win big prizes and support a great cause! Tickets will be available soon. Interested in sponsorship opportunities? All donors will be recognized on BEF’s social media platforms. For details, contact befstaceycali@gmail.com.

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Q &a

Striking a New Chord Manasquan High School’s new Warrior band director is ready to inspire the next generation of musicians.

BY MORGAN MECHLER

INTERVIEW WITH

EVA M. SZAKAL

At the start of this school year, Manasquan

Were you in the marching band in high school?

Which is your favorite instrument to play?

What is your favorite thing about being a band director?

Yes, I played a variety of instruments in the band at Tenafly High School.

I like all instruments, but the French horn is my favorite.

How many instruments do you play?

Who taught you to play music and how did they influence you? How old were you?

Being a band director is not just about teaching members to play the correct notes. It is about conveying emotion and actually making music. The band members, together, portray the composer’s intent in the music. My favorite thing is teaching the band to make music, especially when it is pleasing to the ear.

I started with the French horn in fifth and sixth grade. I loved instruments and learning to play new ones. Every year, I would teach myself how to play one or two new ones.

By the time I graduated high school, I had taught myself how to play every instrument except the flute. In college, I was required to take a class per instrument, but I already knew how to play all of them.

My middle and high school music teachers were very influential. They had the most impact on me. I still keep in touch with both of them.

Who is your favorite composer?

Robert W. Smith. He is one of the most popular composers today, with over 600 pieces of music in print. He is a music teacher at Troy University in Alabama, and his favorite instrument to play is the trumpet.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY JACK TRENGROVE

High School welcomed a new band director, Eva M. Szakal. We spoke with her to learn more about her background and interests.

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What’s your favorite song to teach?

There are too many to choose just one. This is a very difficult question!

How would you describe the MHS Warrior band this year?

The band was very warm and welcoming and has a lot of talent that I am really excited to work with. They were very open and receptive to changes and suggestions for improvement. The previous band director worked with the students for multiple years, so I was nervous to come in and start fresh with them.

Tell me about an interesting experience regarding your love for music.

I had the chance to meet my favorite composer, Robert W. Smith, via Zoom on two different occasions, and my students at the time were able to meet him as well. We could ask questions about why he composed, and about his favorite and least favorite songs. It was amazing!

What are you most excited about for the Warrior band this year?

I am most excited about the musical and the possibility of using student musicians in the pit orchestra.

Hopefully, we will be able to! I am also excited about our concert.

Have you written anything yourself ?

I have not, but I do a lot of arranging and transcribing songs to change them and rework them for my students’ needs.

If you could go see any artist/band, who would it be?

Tell me something about yourself, other than being the band director.

I would love to open for Pink. I have seen her in concert multiple times. She’s a performer!

I have 8-year-old twins, Graham and Matilda, who are excited about my new job.

Do you have any other hobbies?

Other than band, I do a lot of musical theater. I conduct often at the Algonquin in Manasquan, and I play the horn or bass in the pit orchestra at the Brook Arts Center and the Grunin Center at Ocean County College.

This is my 24th year teaching. I received my undergraduate degree in music education from TCNJ and my master’s degree in music education from Colorado State University. I am starting my Doctorate of Musical Arts through Boston University. I also play with Monmouth Symphony Orchestra. When I am not teaching or performing, I like to play golf and bowl. I’m president of my bowling league.

Morgan Mechler is a senior at Manasquan High School and co-editor of the student newspaper. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time at the beach or with her puppy.

NOVEMBER 2023

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The War at the Shore It’s almost time for the annual football game that serves up a generous helping of both rivalry and revelry.

Pep rallies, parades and pride—three

things you’ll find at both Manasquan and Wall high schools the week before Thanksgiving. In a world full of changes and loss of traditions, these two schools always celebrate Thanksgiving morning with the same rituals every year; something many schools and towns have moved away from. Traditions and customs are what make these two small shore towns so exceptional.

When most people think of Thanksgiving, it’s turkey, family, Pilgrims and the Mayflower that come to mind. However, for the Manasquan and Wall Township communities,

Thanksgiving represents the ultimate showdown of the year. Residents happily push back their early bird dinner plans just a little later to come out and feast their eyes on the annual “War at the Shore” football game.

The Manasquan-Wall rivalry remains intense and hot out of the oven, even 23 years after it began. The hosting team of the game switches back and forth every year, giving both towns the chance to host the game. Last Thanksgiving, the Manasquan Warriors celebrated the holiday with a 28-14 victory over the Wall Crimson Knights. The win marked Squan’s first home Thanksgiving Day

victory over Wall since 2012 and its first victory overall in the rivalry since 2017.

Jack Dettlinger, Manasquan Class of 2023, was an essential part of last year’s winning team and is excited to cheer on his old teammates this year as the tension grows stronger and stronger.

“After seeing the Wall lacrosse team jump into our pond after beating us by one in the sectional championship last spring, they should be terrified to play us on Thanksgiving,” Dettlinger says.

His ongoing sense of Warrior pride is a prime example of how Manasquan students carry on the rivalry even after graduation.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY JACK TRENGROVE

BY MORGAN MECHLER

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The Buildup Begins The week leading up to the battle is jampacked with rituals, bonding events and school spirit. The annual pep rally is held in the Manasquan High School (MHS) gym on the day before Thanksgiving to rile up students and wish the football team good luck. The Manasquan cheerleaders and band perform Warrior songs and routines to ensure the school is eager for the game and help everyone remember the magnitude of the rivalry.

Every year, on the Wednesday night before the holiday, the Manasquan community lines the streets to watch the parade from its starting point at Squan Plaza to its ending point at the famous bonfire located in the Fourth Avenue parking lot. Decorated floats make their way throughout Manasquan featuring the

homecoming court, various MHS sports teams, the student council and even local organizations. The cheerleaders make two pit stops to spell out their beloved “Manasquan” with pom-poms for the crowds to watch. People of all ages camp out in the cold with blankets on and hot chocolate in their hands to generate excitement for the game the next morning.

Kids gladly return home from college to reunite with hometown friends and their families at the game every year. The Thanksgiving tradition gives adults and alumni the chance to reconnect with their former high school classmates and reminisce about when they were wearing the blue and gray themselves. School and community spirit from both Wall and Manasquan fill the air and create a warm and cozy feeling for all to soak up.

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“We knew we had it in the bag and began to fight for one of the biggest moments in our high school football careers.”

- Noah Mammeri, senior offensive linebacker for MHS football

Protecting the Prize The football team is excited to put on a show for its hometown and keep the Superintendent’s Trophy on Broad Street for another year. Senior offensive linebacker Noah Mammeri and senior defensive/ offensive linebacker Jack Mead are pumped up for the game already. “We’re excited to play Wall one last time and win our last Manasquan game ever. It’s even better that we get to defeat them on their own field,” Mead says.

Mammeri flashes back to last Thanksgiving to get him ready this year: “Tensions were high between both teams and the rivalry was stronger than ever. We

stepped on the field, and we knew it was game time. As we kept scoring points, we knew we had it in the bag and began to fight for one of the biggest moments in our high school football careers.”

Giving Thanks While the rivalry runs deep and is so meaningful to both Wall and Manasquan, Thanksgiving is really a day for everyone to come together and appreciate the tightknit communities that make both towns so special. Seniors on Wall and Squan play their last high school football game ever and give it their all. It marks the end of the fall season, as well as another year of

traditions coming to a close.

After the game is over and everyone returns to their homes, win or lose, the real meaning of Thanksgiving—gratitude, grace and giving—is remembered and comes to the forefront for all. But when dinner is over, the rivalry is back to being the focus of conversations in houses all around both towns.

Manasquan traditions will continue to run deep for years to come. Once a Warrior, always a Warrior.

Morgan Mechler is a senior at Manasquan High School and co-editor of the student newspaper. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time at the beach or with her puppy.

NOVEMBER 2023

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Claudia Chloe Helicopter Photography Owned by Chloe Masco of Asbury Park During the cold months of winter, sometimes the most needed gifts are the ones that remind us of warmer times. With her vibrant photography, Masco captures beautiful aerial shots of our local beaches and others along the coast. Know someone who would love a stunning bird’s-eye print of their favorite beach? Masco prints, packages and ships all paper prints herself. claudia-chloe.com

Shop Small, Gift Big By visiting these locally owned online businesses, you’ll spread joy to your loved ones and to our area’s entrepreneurs.

BY VIOLET NOLAN

Local Waves

Coastal Crafts

Owned by Lori Height of Manasquan

Owned by Adrianne St. Clair of Brielle

Local Waves creates soft, surf-inspired sweatshirts, T-shirts, shorts, tote bags and more. Merging trendy quotes with local artwork, Local Waves sells pieces anyone would be happy to rock year-round. With a variety of sizes and collections, there’s something for everyone on your list this shopping season.

Coastal Crafts turns wood into wonderfully charming pieces ranging from jewelry and ornaments to custom wood signs and plant holders.

Not only do these handmade gems make great gifts for anyone, but they also add that ideal touch of that local beach feel to a home. coastalcraftsnj.com

shoplocalwaves.com

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Shore 2 Canyons Owned by Joe D’Onofrio of Spring Lake Heights This one’s for all the fishermen and fisherwomen in your life. Joe of Shore 2 Canyons, a small-batch hat company for now, is endlessly passionate about saltwater fishing in New Jersey. Check out the limited-edition line, Manasquan Inlet Beach, for stocking stuffers that any angler will love. njs2c.com

Sand & Sugar Owned by Donna & Susie of Spring Lake Heights and Manasquan They say the way to a loved one’s heart is through their stomach!

Run by two moms who love to bake, Sand & Sugar is known for its small-batch, handdecorated, personalized cookies. Baked right here in Manasquan and Spring Lake Heights, the cookies—and especially their cookie platters—are as Insta-worthy as they are delicious.

Coaster Life Owned by Carly Ringer of Lake Como The perfect addition to a perfectly decorated table during the holiday season is a coaster made by a skilled photographer. Look no further than Coaster Life! Carly Ringer’s business is dedicated to capturing some of the greatest snaps of the shore in coaster form.

Any true local would want to sip a beverage no other way. Shop right off her Facebook @Coaster Life by Carly Ringer Photography. facebook.com/CarlyRingerPhotography

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Willow & Oak Owned by Mari Guadagno of Point Pleasant Nothing brings beauty and joy to one’s doorstep quite like Willow & Oak’s custom planters. It specializes in the creation and on-site installation of hand-selected plants, flowers and seasonal elements that fit the scale, design and needs of each client’s space, for both residential and commercial properties. Mari also offers in-home planting workshops and seasonal events. willowandoakcustomplanters.com

NOVEMBER 2023

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Get a

GRIP! The Manasquan Inlet Tug of War returned for another year of friendly competition.

BY LAURIE ADAMKIEWICZ

This was the deciding year, and October 8 was the deciding day!

The fifth annual face-off between Manasquan and Point Pleasant Beach began with the towns in a 2-2 tie overall. Only one town would be able to claim victory and receive the desired Winners’ Cup—along with major personal satisfaction.

The Manasquan Inlet Tug of War, which was once again sponsored

by Jersey Mike’s, is always a highly anticipated event and a wonderful day to spend along the water with your family. The 450-foot-wide

inlet divides the two towns with picturesque shore vibes on both sides leading out into the ocean. The inlet also separates Monmouth and Ocean counties.

A Sea of Smiles After a rainy Saturday, the sun emerged and a crisp, slightly windy Sunday set the stage for the longawaited event. Large crowds lined both sides of the inlet, with people sitting in beach chairs, on blankets or in the bleachers to cheer their teams on.

Bicycles were parked by the

hundreds along the Fisherman’s Cove fence, and dogs were in abundance.

There was entertainment for all—an art table, face painting, balloon animals and other fun activities for the kids, as well as a beer garden, live music and tons of food options for the adults.

Young student dancers put on a great show. Radio station 95.9 WRAT was the presenter, keeping everyone updated. Local vendors sold handmade items, and other local businesses had tables with information and giveaways.

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PHOTOGRAPHS BY LAURIE ADAMKIEWICZ

NOVEMBER 2023

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Pulling for a Cause The recreation departments of both Point Pleasant Beach and Manasquan will be the recipients of monies raised by the annual tug.

To date, over $200,000 has been raised and shared by the communities. Judging from the crowds lining both sides of the inlet, this year should make that total grow nicely.

Once again, Make-A-Wish will receive a donation from each team representing Manasquan. And this year, Make-A-Wish had its brand new Wish Bus on-site. Some

past wish recipients shared their stories, which were more than heartwarming.

Tom Weatherall, president/CEO of Make-A-Wish New Jersey, explained that the bus will go to hospitals so children and families can apply for and discuss wishes.

Unfortunately, many children can’t go to the organization’s headquarters located in Monroe Township. The building looks as if you are in Disneyland, where wishes do come true. I know firsthand, as I am a “wish mom.”

Large crowds lined both sides of the inlet, with people sitting in beach chairs, on blankets or in the bleachers to cheer their teams on.

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TUG OF WAR: A BRIEF HISTORY Although the exact origin is not known, competitions involving two teams pulling against each other at either end of a rope date back thousands of years. At times, these competitions have even been used as military training exercises.

Tug-of-war was an Olympic sport for quite a while, then discontinued and brought back to the Olympic Games in 2022.

As long as there’s a rope, this game will keep going. It’s popular with kids and is played during many school “field days.” Dogs play tugof-war too! The bottom line? Tug-of-war is here to stay.

Game Time After all the planning and preparation, the excited crowd is ready to watch! Each team consisted of 25+ members. Teams were composed of people representing local businesses, Squan Football, Manasquan Elks and, for the first time, any individual who wanted to literally be hands-on. If you wanted in on the action, you simply had to register and, of course, get yourself a heavyduty pair of gloves. Joe Leone’s was the sponsor of the very important 1,200-foot rope, the star of the show.

And the winner is: Point Pleasant Beach!

Teams pulled their hardest and tugged their hearts out. Feet and arms went forward and backward. It was a constant give and take, either doing the pulling or being pulled.

Some participants literally fell to the

ground while trying to hold on. Manasquan fell behind in the first two heats and was never able to recover.

Great effort was contributed by everyone, and, even though we didn’t receive the trophy, all those who were pulling that rope can be proud of their teamwork and effort in this intense competition.

Teams and their sponsors participating for Manasquan included Atlantic Physical Therapy (sponsor: Encon); Encon Tuggers/ Jersey Mike’s Monmouth (sponsor: Jersey Mike’s); Training Room (sponsor: Make-AWish); and Squan First Responders/ Break the Mold (sponsor: Melilli, Bauer & Farman).

Following these five heats was a break in the action and the inlet was open to boat traffic for a short while. Continuing

in the second session, teams included Sunnyside Manor (sponsor: Manasquan Bank); Manasquan Alumni/Squan Elks (sponsor: Surf Taco); JSA Fitness (sponsor: Monmouth County Tourism); and Squan Football (sponsor: Atlantic Physical Therapy).

The Manasquan Elks once again played a major role in creating the exciting event and nurturing community spirit.

We’ll anxiously be awaiting next year’s competition, in hopes that Manasquan can even the score. Well done, everyone!

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.

NOVEMBER 2023

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Make the Most of College Visits Planning to tour college campuses in the coming weeks?

Heed this advice from local Tony Carnahan of Coastal College Counseling, Tutoring & Test Prep.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY TO COME

BY TONY CARNAHAN

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“Ask about college- or major-specific tours.

Some schools offer supplemental tours of their business, engineering, health sciences or other divisions.”

- Tony Carnahan

Tony Carnahan is an independent college counselor and founder of Coastal College Counseling, Tutoring & Test Prep.

The best way to experience a college or

university is to visit. As your family begins to hit the road to bring what you’ve seen online to life, I hope you’ll find these insights—gained from my experience as an independent college counselor—helpful.

› DO:

› DON’T:

• Schedule your visit with admissions. Many schools closely track visits to help gauge student interest. Never visit anonymously.

• Ask about college- or majorspecific tours. Some schools offer supplemental tours of their business, engineering, health sciences or other divisions.

• Take some time to yourself pre/ post-tour to experience the campus.

Sit under a tree, grab a meal in the dining hall, read the school newspaper or just relax in the student union. So often, students “have a feeling” that a school is the right place for them, and it often grows out of this personal time.

• Take notes right after your visit.

The more schools you see, the more information about each will run together.

• Ask to speak with, or get the contact information for, the admissions representative who covers your high school. Send an email post-visit letting them know of your interest and/or thanking them for taking some time to meet with you.

• If you are a student-athlete, reach out to the coach of the sport you are considering playing and request a quick meeting.

• Ask admissions officers questions you can easily find answers to on the school’s website.

• Eliminate schools just because the tour guide wasn’t great or there was bad weather the day you visited.

• Constantly check your cell phone while on the tour or in an information session.

• See too many schools in one day or on a single visit. A good rule of thumb: no more than two schools in a single day and a maximum of six (and that is a lot) on a single trip.

When not meeting with students and families, Tony Carnahan is an avid cyclist, novice triathlete and lover of great pizza. Learn more at www.coastal-college.com.

NOVEMBER 2023

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HOME FRONT

Help Nourish Our Neighbors The Manasquan Food Pantry makes it easy to feed those in need.

BY LAURIE ADAMKIEWICZ

Fourteen churches in Manasquan, Brielle and several other local towns make up the Manasquan Food Pantry, or “the Pantry.” Together, they share a commitment to promoting goodwill and friendship within our community and creating a support system for those in need by offering a supply of basic foods for each client or family participating in their program.

Assistance is always provided as needed, be it temporary or ongoing.

There are several ways you can engage with the Pantry: • Volunteering offers a meaningful way to support our local communities.

The Pantry’s workforce consists of volunteers, including scouts, local high school students, church members and many others. If you’re interested in lending a hand, your assistance would be warmly welcomed. Simply email squanfoodpantry@gmail.com.

• The Pantry is also thankful, of course, for all the generous donors who provide essential items. Commonly requested items include but aren’t limited to: canned black beans, white rice (not instant), canned chicken, oatmeal (any kind), instant potatoes, applesauce, pancake mix and syrup, noodles and pasta sauce—as well as shampoo and bars of soap. Aldi and ShopRite gift cards are also appreciated.

Remember, one small act of kindness can mean the world to someone. Buy a few extra cans of beans and drop them off.

Someone might not go hungry tonight because of you.

• If you find yourself in need of assistance, please reach out to one of the pantries listed. Several volunteers went through hard times themselves and now have chosen to give back. Times are tough, but know that people understand and are here to help.

LOCATIONS There are four food pantries located in Manasquan. (Checking current hours is suggested.)

• First Baptist Church Little Free Pantry 51 South Street • Hope Community Church 23 Taylor Avenue • Manasquan Community Pantry Located at the Manasquan Presbyterian Church 16 Virginia Avenue • St. Denis Church 90 Union Avenue

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.

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“Knowledge is Power” and Susan’s clients rely heavily on her previous experience and proven track record to reach their real estate goals.

Susan is attuned to this rapidly changing market and believes in keeping her clients informed every step of the way. Susan’s talent for staging, previous banking & mortgage experience, along with her strong communication skills, allow for a smooth, stress-free transaction.

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BOOK NOOK

Get in the Game Books about sports for all ages Stephen M. Ross, owner of the Miami Dolphins, once said: “If there’s any one place in the world where there is equality, it is probably sports. That was something that didn’t always exist. We’ve come a long way in sports. Why can’t society use sports as a way to bring people together and create change?” With that, here are BookTowne’s picks for sports-themed books.

“ONCE A GIANT: A STORY OF VICTORY, TRAGEDY, AND LIFE AFTER FOOTBALL”

by Gary Myers The inside story of the Super Bowl champion 1986 Giants, the extraordinary friendships that resulted—and stunning revelations about the hardships they faced—based on new interviews with Bill Parcells, Phil Simms, Mark Bavaro and Bill Belichick. In “Once a Giant,” best-selling football writer Myers tells the story of that team and what became of it.

“MAGIC: THE LIFE OF EARVIN ‘MAGIC’ JOHNSON”

by Roland Lazenby Through hundreds of interviews with Earvin “Magic” Johnson’s coaches, representatives past and present, teammates, opponents, friends and loved ones, as well as key conversations with Johnson himself over the years, Lazenby has produced the first truly definitive study, both dark and light, of Earvin “Magic” Johnson Jr.—the revolutionary player, the icon, the man.

“WHY WE LOVE BASEBALL: A HISTORY IN 50 MOMENTS”

by Joe Posnanski Posnanski writes of major moments that created legends and of forgotten moments almost lost to time. It’s Willie Mays’ catch, Babe Ruth’s called shot and Kirk Gibson’s limping home run; the slickest steals; the biggest bombs and the most triumphant no-hitters. But these are also moments raw with the humanity of the game: the unheralded heroes, the mesmerizing mistakes—all told from a unique perspective.

“Why We Love Baseball” is a one-of-a-kind love letter to the sport.

CHILDREN’S

MIDDLE READER

“GAME CHANGERS: THE STORY OF VENUS AND SERENA WILLIAMS”

by Lesa Cline-Ransome Venus and Serena Williams are two of the greatest tennis players of all time. Some say they’re two of the greatest athletes of all time. Before they were world-famous, they were little girls with big dreams. With vibrant mixed media art, author ClineRansome and illustrator James E. Ransome (a Coretta Scott King honor winner) share the inspirational story of two tennis legends who were fierce competitors on the court, but close sisters above all.

“THE GRIP”

by Marcus Stroman In this first book in the semiautobiographical series from MLB pitcher Marcus Stroman, a young baseball player learns that perfect games only come with a lot of practice—and some strikeouts. Young Marcus is determined to make it to the highest playing level he can, despite every coach telling him he’s not tall enough to become a “real” pitcher. He’ll show them... with some struggling and a whole lot of learning.

YOUNG ADULT “REZ BALL”

by Byron Graves This compelling debut novel by new talent Graves tells the relatable, high-stakes story of a young athlete determined to play like the hero his Ojibwe community needs him to be.

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LIFE OUTDOORS

Running for a Cause Just Us Girls held its 29th annual event to raise money for those with breast cancer.

BY LAURIE ADAMKIEWICZ

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Runners of all ages participated in the 29th annual 5K Breast Cancer Fundraiser, organized by Just Us Girls, a local nonprofit that provides support to those impacted by the disease.

On October 7 at the Sea Girt Army Camp, Just Us Girls held its 29th annual 5K Breast Cancer Fundraiser, followed by a free buffet and celebration generously hosted by the Manasquan Elks Lodge.

A local 501(c)(3) organization, Just Us Girls provides support for women and men in Monmouth and Ocean counties who are dealing with breast cancer. It is a 100 percent volunteer organization, with all profits going back to the community in the form of individual financial awards and annual scholarships.

The organization dates back to 1995 when five women whose lives were affected by breast cancer decided they wanted to help others who were also going through treatment for the disease. Out of that commitment, Just Us Girls (but yes, men are included!) was born, and from a handful of friends grew a compassionate, life-changing organization.

Today, Just Us Girls continues to stay true to its mission statement: To promote awareness while providing support and encouragement to all women and men of

Monmouth and Ocean counties who are struggling with breast cancer.

How They Help It’s a huge struggle if you’re not only sick but can’t, say, make your mortgage payment.

That’s where Just Us Girls steps in. In addition to giving money for medical bills, the group provides many different forms of support—from a card with encouraging words to help buying a grandchild a Christmas present. Since its beginning, Just Us Girls has assisted more than 800 women diagnosed with breast cancer.

On its website, you will find this telling quote from community member Cathy Commesso Juska: “It’s about letting people in, accepting help with things you don’t ever want to ask for. I’ve established amazing relationships with women who I never would have come across. They’re dear friends now.”

To learn more, volunteer or donate, go to www.justusgirls.net. Corporate sponsors are also needed to pay for the cost of holding the 5K event each year.

THE GOALS OF JUST US GIRLS This local nonprofit aims to: • Ease the lives of those women and men who have been affected by breast cancer • Distribute all monies raised through its annual 5K and other events and activities • Advocate education and sensitivity in dealing with breast cancer issues • Encourage the exchange of ideas and information to keep pace with current trends in research and treatment

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.

NOVEMBER 2023

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PHOTO OP

We Thank You

October 28 was National First Responders Day. Thank you to our firefighters, police officers, paramedics, EMTs and 911 operators who answer the call when a crisis arises, often putting their own lives on the line. This chalk art drawing was brought to you by Manasquan resident Mike Harold.

“I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.”

– Nelson Mandela

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Your Local

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