Monmouth JANUARY 2026 | $6.95 | MONMOUTHMAG.COM | VOLUME 24 ISSUE 1
VOLUME 24 ISSUE 1 | JANUARY 2026
HEALTH & LIFE | FOOD & FASHION | HOME & HAPPENINGS
REBUILD, RENEW, RESET
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BEACHED BEAUTY IN SEA GIRT
THE HEALTH & WELLNESS ISSUE
HOW TO STAY WELL IN 2026 GOOD GENES FAMILY HISTORY GUIDES YOUR HEALTH NO TIME OR EQUIPMENT? SIMPLE SOLUTIONS TO GET FIT 10 READERS SHARE THEIR RESOLUTIONS
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BELMAR’S STEPHEN LONGO SURVIVES ‘SHARK TANK’
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Contents JAN 2026
42 Departments Monmouth Buzz 8 Our guide to new ideas, tips, trends and things we love in our county.
Style Watch 12 These bold, cozy coats are turning winter into your coolest season yet.
Home Front 13 Shape your space with modern décor.
20 Features
Friends & Neighbors 14
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Belmar’s Stephen Longo invented a frozen treat, pitched it on national television— and succeeded.
A Key To Your Medical Destiny 16 Mining your family’s past for information can help safeguard your future health.
The Zero Equipment Option 18
Milestones 34
Haven’t time for a gym visit or space for exercise apparatus? There’s a simpler way to get fit.
For 55 years, Monmouth Arts has been shining the spotlight on the county’s most talented.
Big Plans For ’26 20 Did you make New Year’s resolutions? Here are the changes 10 of your Monmouth neighbors plan to implement now that the calendar is a fresh one.
Escapes 36 Five charming Northeast towns insist that winter isn’t an obstacle to good times—it’s an excuse for letting them roll.
Monmouth Through A Lens 26 Seven photographers bring the beauty of our county into sharp focus.
ON THE COVER
These easy-to-make fish recipes offer a flavorful way to support your wellness goals.
Bar Tab 42 This sweet, tart and ginger cocktail is ready to steal the spotlight.
Restaurant Review 47 Rings Mediterranean Cuisine in Manalapan is brand new, but its flavors and hospitality suggest a seasoned favorite.
Gatherings 54 Monmouth residents always show up to support their neighbors.
A Monmouth Moment 56 A local photographer captures the Sea Girt beach and boardwalk during his favorite time of day—an hour before sunrise.
IN EVERY ISSUE 4 15 48 52
Editor’s Note Health News Where to Eat Be There
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Late afternoon sun over Sea Girt casts light on a sailboat that ran ashore. Photo by Nancy Bujnowski. MONMOUTHMAG.COM
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Smart Money Moves W
ELCOME to the latest edition of Fiscal Fitness! 2025 will be a year to remember, to say the least. The stock market just reached an all-time high in December1 as volatility in the cryptocurrency market continued. Bitcoin reached a high of over $126,000 in early October to below $90,000 by late November. If you’re 50 or older, let’s bypass the market noise and focus on actionable, high-impact strategies designed specifically for your stage of life. TAX-SAVVY STRATEGIES FOR AGE 50+ Maximize Pretax Contributions by taking advantage of employer sponsored retirement plans. STANDARD PRETAX CONTRIBUTIONS: For 2026, you can contribute up to $24,500 to your 401(k), 403(b), and most 457/TSP plans. Catch-Up (Age 50+): Add an extra $8,000 annually if eligible. The “Super Catch-Up” (Ages 60-63): A new provision allows for an even larger contribution of $11,250. Why it matters: Reducing your AGI can help lower your tax bracket and improve eligibility for deductions and credits. Reminder: Starting in 2026, higher income earners must make catch-up contributions on a Roth basis in employer-sponsored retirement plans2.
QUALIFIED CHARITABLE DISTRIBUTIONS (QCDS) If you are age 70½ or older, you can direct up to $110,000 per year from an IRA directly to a qualified charity as a QCD, lowering taxable income (limits are indexed annually). Bonus: Did you know QCDs count toward your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) for the year, which is particularly useful since RMDs generally start at age 73 (or 75
for those born in 1960 or later). Why now? New tax laws taking effect this year will introduce limitations on traditional charitable deductions that make QCDs even more attractive. HEALTH SAVINGS ACCOUNT (HSA) remains an indispensable tool for covering future healthcare costs. Contribution Limits (2025): $4,300 for self-only coverage or $8,550 for family, provided you are covered by a high-deductible health plan (HDHP). The Age 55+ Catch-Up: Add an extra $1,000 annually.
About THE AUTHOR
RETIREMENT TIMING & PENALTIES Rule of 55: You may take penalty-free withdrawals from a qualified plan such as a 401(k)/403(b) if you separate from employment at or after age 55. Age 59½: Standard withdrawals from IRAs and most retirement plans can begin without the early withdrawal penalty. Age 73/75 RMDs generally begin, requiring you to withdraw a minimum amount annually. Failure to withdraw the minimum by the deadline may result in a 25% penalty on the amount that should have been withdrawn.
Recognized as an experienced and knowledgeable professional in the areas of financial transitions and divorce financial planning, her guidance is often sought where there are complicated financial issues, significant assets or an imbalance in financial knowledge between divorcing couples.
The combination of new tax laws, evolving contribution limits, and intricate distribution rules requires a comprehensive, tailored strategy. Now is the ideal moment to collaborate with a qualified and experienced CFP® Professional.
Debra Fournier, CFP®, CDFA®
Footnotes: 1 As of December 12, 2025 DJIA, LPL Research 2 SECURE 2.0 Act effective January 1, 2026 workers age 50 or older earning more than $150k in FICA Wages.
DEBRA FOURNIER, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst™, has been providing comprehensive wealth management services to families and independent women for over 30 years.
Debra has been quoted in Kiplinger’s Personal Finance Magazine and AOL Daily Finance, appeared numerous times on Good Day New York and has been featured in the Asbury Park Press section Getting Ahead. Looking for a more personalized approach to your finances? We invite you to call us at 732-800-8400 or email debra.fournier@lpl.com and discover how we can help you pursue your financial goals.
2006 Highway 71, Suite 1 Spring Lake, NJ 07762 732-800-8400 | 732-800-0622 fax seaviewwealth.com
Securities offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC Content in this material is for general information only and not intended to provide specific tax advice or recommendations for any individual. The economic forecasts set forth in this material may not develop as predicted and there can be no guarantee that strategies promoted will be successful.
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EDITOR’S NOTE
Here’s To Your Health Staying healthy seems to have become complicated. Faces have changed at respected national institutions dealing with health, and sometimes messages too. And whichever side of the national shouting match you’re on, you’re apt to fear that there’s more to fear nowadays. That’s why nothing could be timelier than this Achieving the Ideal End for Your Best New Beginning Health & Wellness Issue of MONMOUTH. Medicine does know some basic things about taking care of yourself to help assure not only a longer, but also a richer life. Think how lucky you are to be living in 2026, when geneticists know more than ever before about how your family’s past can affect the future of your health. Turn to page 16 Megan S. Murray, Esq. to read an article that explores four key areas in which knowledge of your hereditary The Family Law Offices of Megan S. Murray predispositions can—and maybe should—affect your medical and lifestyle choices starting today. 960 Holmdel Road, Building II, Holmdel, New Jersey 07733 732-847-9896 | MurrayFamilyLaw.com Eating right also plays a role in overall health, and that’s something Stephen Longo of Belmar takes to heart. An entrepreneur and nutrition coach, he created a frozen treat to help you hit the ideal amount of protein, carbohydrates and fats in your diet. It’s a tasty and nutritious idea, but what did the judges on TV’s Shark Tank think? Read page 14 MeganMurray_1-4p_0225_v2.indd 1 1/14/25 8:41 AMto find out. Physical activity and good nutrition are great for health, and they represent worthy goals for the new year. But well-being also includes how we feel about ourselves. What do volunteering, reading, organizing photos, making friends and being more positive have in common? They all figure in New Year’s resolutions made by some of your Monmouth County neighbors this January (page 20). If you know any of these folks, you can keep track and start gently holding them accountable come December—but don’t toss a stone if your own house is made of glass! Environment also can contribute to physical and mental wellness, and we’re fortunate to live in a county as beautiful as ours. On page 26, we take a look at Monmouth through the lenses of seven photographers, each of whom captured the various colors, lights, landscapes and landmarks that make our home unique. The whole point of staying well is to enjoy life, and enjoyment is our wish for your new year. Visit a winter festival (page 36), savor a scrumptious fish entrée (page 38), chill with G IN COMIN AUG a warming drink in a mellow tea room (page 11) or consume the salmon kebab at FEB & Manalapan’s new Rings Mediterranean Cuisine (page 47). In many ways (if you don’t overdo), enjoyment itself is good for you. To your good health—and good times—in ’26!
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THE MONMOUTH PET GUIDE
The Monmouth Pet Guide, appearing in the February and August issues of Monmouth magazine, is a great place to reach pet lovers throughout the county.
Rita Guarna Editor in Chief rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com
To reserve space, contact Jodi Bruker, Publisher 732-778-4744 or jodi.bruker@wainscotmedia.com.
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THE COUNTY’S TOP REAL ESTATE AGENTS
Senior Living Guide
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Group Publisher THOMAS FLANNERY
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Publisher JODI BRUKER
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MARKETING, DIGITAL & OPERATIONS
Contributing Editor PAUL RANCE JR. PRODUCTION
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Chief Finance Officer STEVEN RESNICK
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Assistant Controller URSZULA JANECZKO Accounts Receivable Manager KASIE CARLETON Director of Operations CATHERINE ROSARIO
BE SOCIAL Join our online community! LIKE us on Facebook: MonmouthMagazine FOLLOW us on X: @MonmouthHandL SEE our photos on Instagram: @MonmouthMagazine VIEW our boards on Pinterest: HealthandLife SEND YOUR FEEDBACK AND IDEAS TO: Editor, Monmouth, P.O. Box 571, Asbury Park, NJ 07712; fax: 201.746.8650; email rita.guarna@ wainscotmedia.com. Monmouth assumes no responsibility for the return of unsolicited manuscripts or art materials.
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ADVERTISING INQUIRIES Please contact Thomas Flannery at 201.571.2252 or thomas.flannery@wainscotmedia.com.
SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES To inquire about a subscription, to change an address or to purchase a back issue or a reprint of an article, please write to Monmouth, Circulation Department, One Maynard Dr., Park Ridge, NJ 07656; telephone 201.573.5541; email fern.meshulam@ wainscotmedia.com.
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OUR GUIDE TO NEW IDEAS, TIPS, TRENDS AND THINGS WE LOVE IN OUR COUNTY.
DONATE FOR DOGS (AND CATS)
Times are tough, and our neighbors need our support—including the furry ones. Want to help our county’s animal population? Local shelters and rescue organizations are always looking for pet food donations, both for their own populations and to distribute to residents in need. Here are a few you can support:
• Associated Humane Societies Shelter, Tinton Falls. This shelter is looking for dog and cat food, specifically Purina One or Purina Pro Plan dry and wet food for dogs, Purina dry adult cat chow and Friskies wet cat food (no seafood flavor, please). For more, see ahscares.org/tinton-falls-shelter/ • Monmouth County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), Eatontown. If you donate wet or dry pet food here, it will also go to the organization’s “pet pantries,” where those in need can pick up free food for their animals. The shelter is also always in need of flavored dog-chew toys and bones. More info: monmouthcountyspca.org • Shore Saves Animal Rescue, Freehold. With a focus on rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming at-risk dogs, this organization welcomes canned dog food, treats, bully sticks and peanut butter. (And it won’t say no to durable chew toys like Kongs.) More info: shoresaves.com
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CRAVIN’ KOREAN?
Monmouth’s food scene is getting a quiet little glow-up, and we can thank the growing Korean American community. From family-run barbecue spots to cozy cafés serving kimchi fried rice, Korean flavors are popping up everywhere. So, for Korean American Day, Jan. 13, why not try one of Monmouth’s standout Korean restaurants? They include: • bb.q Chicken (120 Third Ave., Neptune, 732.952.9075; bbqchicken.com) for Korean fried chicken. • Kimchi Mama (504 Main St., Asbury Park, 732.361.0756; kimchimama.net) for bibimbap, kimchi fried rice and bulgogi. • KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot (3010 Rte. 35, Hazlet, 201.275.1389; thekpot.com) for hot pot and all-you-can-eat Korean barbecue. • Mogo Korean Fusion (632 Cookman Ave., Asbury Park, 732.361.3684; 10 Centennial Dr., Long Branch, 732.443.5443; eatmogo.com) for Korean-flavored tacos and burritos. • Ono Korean BBQ (349 Matawan Rd., Matawan, 732.970.7489; onokoreanbbq.com) for kimchi, curry, rice and noodle bowls.
PUPPY LOVE
TALE OF TWO TOWNS
We know our county is one of the state’s most scenic (pictures on page 26 prove it), but it’s nice when experts agree. Online geography resource WorldAtlas has released its list of the 11 prettiest towns in New Jersey—and both Spring Lake and Red Bank made the cut. • Spring Lake was cited for its charming historical buildings, cozy boutiques, pristine beaches, the Spring Lake Theatre and the Spring Lake 5 Mile Run, one of the largest such races (by participation) in the country. • Red Bank was praised for its cultural attractions (the iconic Count Basie Center for the Arts and the Two River Theater both got shoutouts), beautifully preserved historic buildings and many public parks. Next time you stroll through one of these downtowns, make sure you slow down and appreciate the beauty around you.
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Dog: Benny, a 3-yearold golden retriever Owner: Eileen Gilbertson, Red Bank Benny was 5 months old when he was adopted from the Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue, where a breeder had surrendered him because of a birth defect, which Gilbertson says has never bothered him. According to Gilbertson, the pup has been on the go ever since. His favorite place to take a walk is Broad Street in Red Bank, where he makes sure to stop at all the businesses known to keep dog treats on hand. If he sees a stick along the way, he’ll pick it up and carry it until the stroll is done. Benny also loves going to day care at Tinton Falls-based Purr’n Pooch, where he plays all day with his buddies. He’s also a shutter-pup. “He turns to face me whenever I take his picture!” his owner reports. He does a whole-body wiggle when he sees his favorite people, but if he greets you with an item, Gilbertson warns you not to take it. “If he has a toy or a stick, he’s just showing it to you! That’s his.” Want to see your pet in an upcoming issue of MONMOUTH? Send a photo and a brief description to editor Rita Guarna at rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com. JANUARY 2026
12/17/25 11:33 AM
PHOTO COURTESY OF ALL AMERICAN AUTO GROUP
POLICE NAB NEW CAR
IMAGES OF A HISTORIC COUNTY
We love seeing our home through the eyes of the young, so the Monmouth County Clerk’s annual high school photography contest is one of our favorite traditions. Each year, in honor of Monmouth’s Archives & History Day, the clerk’s office invites local high school students to submit their original black-and-white or color photographs on a particular theme. This year’s theme, “Revolutionary Monmouth County,” pays homage to our country’s upcoming 250th anniversary and Monmouth’s role in the American Revolution. Here are the winners, awarded by Clerk Christine Giordano Hanlon (above, clockwise from top left): • First place. Jonathan Lenahan of Ocean, freshman at Ocean Township High School. Sandy Hook Lighthouse.
• Third place: Julia Portaro of Howell, senior at Howell High School. Little Wooden Bridge, Monmouth Battlefield.
• Second place: Lily Dooling of Sea Girt, sophomore at St. Rose High School. Monmouth Battlefield.
• Honorable mention: Nolan Webb of Atlantic Highlands, junior at Ranney School. Old Tennent Church, Manalapan.
A playful Instagram post earned the Spring Lake Police Department a brand-new Ford Bronco police vehicle. SLPD was selected winner of the $110,000 police SUV from a pool of 20 departments, all of which submitted videos to enter All American Auto Group’s free giveaway competition. Spring Lake was selected for its creative social media video and the ensuing public engagement. The video depicted two officers reporting for duty, with both reaching for keys to the Bronco at the start of their shift. The lucky officer who grabbed the keys turned unlucky, as a passing sergeant snatched the keys and the Bronco for himself. The department will use the customized SUV to patrol beach areas, support community policing efforts and keep the town safe in all weather and terrain. “This is an incredible honor for our department and our community,” says Chief Edward M. Kerr Jr. “This Bronco represents more than just a vehicle; it’s a symbol of teamwork, service and our connection with the people of Spring Lake.”
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE?
You needn’t wait till November to vote—ballots for MONMOUTH’s annual Readers’ Choice Poll are now open! Help your favorite Monmouth County businesses claim bragging rights for the year. Visit monmouthmag.com to choose the best of the best in nearly 100 categories, from donut shops and dog trainers to golf courses and gift boutiques. Winners will be revealed in our annual Readers’ Choice issue later this year.
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CAN’T LIVE ON JUST A PRAYER CULINARY CORNER
During history’s longest government shutdown, JBJ Soul Kitchen in Red Bank—a nonprofit community restaurant run by the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation—offered free, three-course meals to federal workers who had been furloughed and were not being paid. Diners also learned about other resources and support initiatives available to them. More than 22,000 federal employees in New Jersey were affected by furloughs. In its announcement on social media, the restaurant said: “Our doors are always open to the community. If you’re in need, please come by. We’re here to support you.”
We all have favorite go-to eateries, but why not dine at someplace new in 2026? Put these recently opened restaurants on your list to try:
LET’S PAR-TEA
Monmouth is known for its beaches, boardwalks and cafés, but lately we’ve been charmed by something a little quieter: its collection of tea rooms. They offer slow, warm moments that feel like a deep exhale in a mug (and tea, of course, has plenty of benefits to help with your healthful resolutions). And there’s no better time than now, National Hot Tea Month, to visit one of the following soothing spots:
Eat like a Turk Grab a seat at Rings Mediterranean in Manalapan for the comforting taste of Turkish and Albanian cuisine. This familyowned eatery offers a welcoming vibe and heartwarming dishes such as boneless chicken chops, lamb shish kebab, shrimp stew and a variety of pide (Turkish flatbread). See our full review on page 47. • Rings Mediterranean, 299 Rte. 9, Manalapan, 732.858.9888; ringsrestaurant.com Let’s do Italian Local restaurateurs Joe and Colleen Pisacreta have opened their first eatery in Monmouth, Amorina in Marlboro. The couple remodeled a former pizzeria to create the upscale Italian restaurant, which offers comforting pasta dishes, traditional chicken and veal entrées and specials like braised short ribs and Chilean sea bass. • Amorina, 8 S. Main St., Marlboro, 732.577.0777; amorinaitalian.com Hit the street Some of the world’s memorable bites are served from food trucks and carts, and you’ll find such fare at Street Kitchen Pub. Chefs at the new Red Bank restaurant turn ordinary “street cuisine” into culinary art—bao buns, banh mi sandwiches, overstuffed burritos and chicken gyros, for instance. Our future favorite: the elote platter! • Street Kitchen Pub, 5 Broad St., Red Bank, 732.747.1259; streetkitchenpub.com
• Almost Home, multiple locations, almosthomegeneral.com • The Parisian Tea Room, 165 Amboy Rd., Suite 723, Morganville, 917.696.2814; theparisiantearoom.com
OUR OWN RHODES SCHOLAR
Congratulations to Holmdel’s Omar M. Abuattieh, a doctoral student at Rutgers University’s Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, who has been named a 2026 Rhodes scholar. This is one of the most prestigious international academic honors for college graduates, and it fully funds two to three years of graduate study at the University of Oxford in England. It was awarded to only 32 students in the country this year. Abuattieh is the first recipient from Rutgers to earn the honor since 1993—and the first ever selected from the School of Pharmacy.
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• Sweet Tease Tea Room, 604 Main St., Belmar, 732.722.8030; sweetteasetearoom.com
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HOME FRONT
Lima Gold Hexagon Shape Metal Frame Decorative Wall Mirror The Home Depot, multiple locations
Visual Comfort Feccetta 21” Wide Suspension Pendant Ferguson Home, Red Bank, 732.741.0587
Brayden Studio Modern Gold Coffee Table With Diamond-Shaped Design wayfair.com
Geometry Class Shape your space with décor in bold, modern designs.
L’Objet Kelly Behun Decorative Tray perigold.com
Saxon Geometric Table Lamp Ethan Allen, Englishtown, 732.477.1500
Tribeca Buffet bernhardt.com Tola Lounge Chair roveconcepts.com
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FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS
Shark Tank Survivor You haven’t seen Orka bars on grocery shelves yet, but you may soon. The health-food answer to Klondike bars, they’re made with egg whites, whey protein and light cream. They’re designed to be “macro-friendly”—to help you hit the ideal amount of protein, carbohydrates and fats in your diet. They’re guilt-free sweet bites. Their creator is 36-year-old Stephen Longo, an entrepreneur and nutrition coach from Belmar. Recently, on ABC’s Shark Tank, he tried to convince a panel of investors—Kevin O’Leary, Daymond John, Lori Greiner, Kendra Scott and guest judge Alexis Ohanian— to invest in his idea. They all liked the taste, and Longo walked away with a handshake agreement with Greiner for a $100,000 investment in exchange for a 25-percent stake in the company. From West Orange originally, Longo lived in New York City for 15 years before moving to Monmouth, working in operations and strategy consulting. He’s also a competitive beach volleyball player. What sparked the Orka bar? I’ve always had an affinity for nutrition, not only because of my nutrition coaching but also because I’m an athlete. One night I came home from beach volleyball, opened my freezer and pulled out a Klondike bar. I looked at the ingredients and thought, “This is really something that could be innovated upon. Something with more nutritional value that still has that refreshing, revitalizing property that people love. And it’s a singular unit, already portion-controlled.” I started researching and discovered that this was genuinely a white space in the market. Then what? Experimenting! For basically all of 2023, I tried to find a health-forward formula that would still feel nostalgic and like an indulgence. It was a huge struggle—trying to create a frozen product at home is not easy.
You made it in your home? In my condo in Belmar. I started with $50 and ingredients from the Shop-Rite across the street. I had to put myself through a foodscience crash course. Stabilizing egg whites, which creates the fluffy, creamy texture, is no easy task. Humidity and biometric pressure factor in. I just kept experimenting, trying new combinations. Once I figured it out and started testing it on my family and friends, it was a hit. What inspired you to go on Shark Tank? I was at an event here in Monmouth, and David Restiano, who is also from the Jersey Shore and was featured on Shark Tank [for Sorsoap, a soap bar that massages as you use it], tried a sample of my product. He had a positive reaction and asked if I’d thought about going on the show. I said, “Yeah, of course, but I don’t think I’m ready.” He said, “Nonsense. This is that good. You should apply.” So I did.
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They asked for samples of the product, and then they asked me to come on. Memories from being on set? It was one of the most overwhelming experiences of my life. I have a background in pitching to powerful people—CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, for instance. This was even more nerve-wracking. I studied for weeks. I read all of the “sharks’” books, all the recent articles about them, so I would know what they believed in. I wanted to prove I would be worth their funding. And, in the end, I did. It was unbelievable. What “shark” were you most scared of? Kevin, because he’s always so harsh in his evaluations. I was relieved with how respectful and warm he was to me. Do you feel a connection between being an athlete and being an entrepreneur? Yes. The competitive drive, the willingness to do anything to win and push through physical and mental fatigue—it all helps. Favorite reaction to Orka? I was selling the bars at the Jersey Strong gym in Wall, and these athletic guys in their early 20s came up to me. I asked if they wanted to try one, and one said he would—the other said he wouldn’t because he was lactose intolerant. The one who tried it was like, “Oh man, this is delicious.” And his friend looked at me and said, “This guy is the pickiest eater I know; he doesn’t like anything. I need to try it too.” He reached into his backpack for a Lactaid pill—and confirmed his friend’s opinion. What’s next? Orka is still mostly a one-man operation—I only recently brought in one other person to help. I want to find the right people and equipment so I can scale it and bring my product to store shelves. Advice for budding entrepreneurs? If you ever look at your life and think, “I feel like I should be doing something else,” you’ve got to go for it. —Kirsten Meehan
Photography by Stephen Longo and Disney
Belmar’s Stephen Longo invented a new frozen treat, pitched it on national television—and succeeded.
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12/17/25 11:34 AM
HEALTH NEWS MOTHERS’ MENTAL HEALTH DECLINING
HEARING AIDS HELP DEMENTIA RISK
From 2016 to 2023, the percentage of mothers in the United States reporting “excellent” mental health dropped by 12 points, reflecting rising emotional, financial and societal pressures. —JAMA Internal Medicine
People with hearing loss who started using hearing aids in their 60s had less dementia risk for up to two decades, according to research. People in the same age group with no hearing loss also had a lower risk of dementia over time compared with those who had hearing loss and no hearing aids. —JAMA Neurology
RELAXATION MAY HELP LOWER HIGH BP
Relaxation techniques— including breath control, yoga, Tai Chi and biofeedback, among others—may help lower high blood pressure, at least in the short term. Long-term effects are still unclear. —BMJ Medicine
COLD SORES AND ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE The virus responsible for cold sores around the mouth—herpes simplex 1, or HSV-1 for short—may play a key role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease, suggests a recent study. However, treatment with antiviral therapy appears to be linked to a lower risk of this type of dementia, suggesting that treatment to relieve HSV-1 symptoms may be protective. —BMJ Open
Hypersensitivity to the cold, especially ice cold feet, as well as a feeling of heaviness in the legs, are linked to the presence of varicose veins, finds a large study. Cold hypersensitivity is often underestimated as a subjective symptom, say the researchers. —Open Heart
LIFESTYLE CHANGES KEEP DEMENTIA AT BAY
BEWARE ULTRAPROCESSED FOODS
Eating too many ultraprocessed foods— those chock full of added sugar, salt, fats, artificial colors, flavor and preservatives—can alter the bacteria in your gut and damage the gut’s lining, triggering inflammation. —Nature Medicine
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COLD FEET LINKED TO VARICOSE VEINS
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Engage with friends and family. Eat healthy and exercise. These can improve memory in older adults, according to a recent study. Monitoring cardiovascular health and doing brain training exercises such as crossword or jigsaw puzzles and playing chess and card games, were also cited as being helpful. —JAMA
—Compiled by Paul Rance Jr.
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A Key To Your Medical Destiny MINING YOUR FAMILY’S PAST FOR INFORMATION CAN HELP SAFEGUARD YOUR FUTURE HEALTH.
Dina Hennedy, D.O., family medicine physician, Atlantic Health
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You’re sitting in a new doctor’s office, bending over a clipboard. On it is a list of ailments and conditions, from atrial fibrillation to yellow fever. “Does anyone in your family have a history of——?” the form asks. It’s tedious to fill out, and perhaps frustrating (what if you simply don’t know if your grandfather had anemia?) but it’s also a vital tool for your health. That history can help provide a road map of your possible medical future, and the steps you need to take to keep yourself hale and hearty longer. Certain genetic variations can cause an increased likelihood of developing particular diseases. Says Dina Hennedy, D.O., a family medicine physician affiliated with Atlantic Health who practices in Marlboro: “Knowing your family medical history gives insight into your own genetic risk factors. It provides information that allows clinicians effective risk stratification.” That means it can be used to accurately determine the correct level of care and monitoring you need. “It leads to earlier screenings, better strategies for prevention and/or focused monitoring for future office visits,” says the doctor. “Any family medical history patients provide is helpful information.” Which medical conditions should raise red flags if you see them in your family tree? Dr. Hennedy singles out four: Breast cancer. Apart from skin cancers, this is the most common cancer in women in the U.S. If your mother or grandmothers had it, pay special attention. Mutations or variants in the two “breast cancer” genes, BRCA1 and BRCA2, are inherited from your parents and greatly increase your risk of developing the illness. “We look for a history of breast cancer in first- and second-degree relatives, as well as their age at diagnosis, to estimate lifetime risk,” says Dr. Hennedy. A first-degree relative is a parent or full sibling; a second-degree relative is an aunt, uncle, grandparent or half-sibling. “If the estimated lifetime risk is 20 percent or greater, we consider
that high risk and adjust screening recommendations,” the doctor explains. Annual breast-cancer screenings should begin no later than age 40 but, for high-risk individuals with a strong family history, the recommendation is “10 years prior to the youngest family member’s age of diagnosis, with earliest screening at 30,” says the doctor. She adds, “For patients who do fall into the high-risk category, there are genetic counselors who can test for genetic mutations,” including the BRCA gene mutations. Colorectal cancer. This cancer also runs in families and can be caused by an inherited gene mutation, specifically in genes that help keep cell growth in check (such as the APC, or adenomatous polyposis coli gene) or repair DNA (for example, four genes known as MLH1, MSH2, MSH6 and PMS2). The term “Lynch syndrome” now describes what was formerly known as hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer: a defect in one of these cell-repairing genes that makes a malignancy more likely. It’s recommended that routine screenings for colorectal cancer start at 45 for most patients but, says Dr. Hennedy, “individuals are considered to be at increased risk if there is a first-degree relative with history of colorectal cancer. For these patients, a colonoscopy is recommended every five years, starting at age 40, or 10 years prior to the age of earliest diagnosis in their family— whichever comes first.” As with the BRCA genes, genetic testing makes it possible to screen for Lynch syndrome, APC gene mutations and other common mutations that can increase your risk of colorectal cancer. Cardiovascular disease. CVD is the leading cause of death in both the country and the world, and someone dies of it every 34 seconds, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Though the lifestyle factors for developing it are well known (the doctor stresses the importance of a healthy diet, regular exercise and the avoidance of smoking), Dr. Hennedy says:
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“Family history is an independent risk factor for CVD, with the risk increasing as the number of affected first-degree relatives increases and with earlier age of onset.” That means that talking to your relatives about when they were diagnosed is even more important in this case. “It can identify individuals who would benefit from earlier preventive measures,” says the doctor. This can range from lifestyle changes—a high enough genetic risk of CVD may make it reasonable for someone to completely abstain from alcohol, for instance—to prescription medicines, such as anticoagulants given to help prevent blood clots. Type 2 diabetes. According to Dr. Hennedy, “Type 2 diabetes has a strong hereditary component associated with it, particularly if a parent or sibling is also diagnosed.” It’s also multifaceted; in the words of the American Diabetes Association, “You inherit a predisposition to the disease, then something in your environment triggers it.” Dr. Hennedy explains: “The interaction between genetics and environmental factors, such as obesity or physical inactivity, can increase the chances of developing diabetes.” If you have a sibling or parent who has been diagnosed, she recommends “regular office visits with routine lab monitoring, which are crucial in preventing type 2 diabetes, or identifying prediabetes earlier.” Knowing family risk factors and keeping up with that lab monitoring “allows for discussions regarding lifestyle modifications and treatment options,” she says—for example, a blood-pressure medication or a collaboration with a nutritionist on a healthy diet plan. Sometimes talking about family medical history can be uncomfortable. Maybe your mother, for example, feels shame over being prediabetic and doesn’t want to discuss it with her kids. Tactful patient education can help. “We explain that family health history is a key factor in early detection for others,” says the doctor. “That will often motivate individuals to share with close family members.”
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THE ZEROEQUIPMENT OPTION
HAVEN’T TIME FOR A GYM VISIT OR SPACE FOR BULKY EXERCISE APPARATUS? THERE’S A SIMPLER WAY TO GET FIT. Today’s sophisticated exercise equipment is great—there’s no doubt that, properly and regularly used with discipline and determination, it can help you achieve the body of your dreams. But it’s not your only choice. Right in your home, using only things that every home contains, there’s another path open to you: the no-equipment approach. Home has one big selling point: it isn’t hard to get to. In the comfort of your own living room (or rec room, bedroom, office, basement, garage, whatever) and without a workout bench or a Nautilus machine, you can use your own body weight—along with gravity—to power an effective workout. And after all, isn’t the most effective exercise regimen the one you’ll actually perform regularly? A January 2025 New York Times article called at-home workouts and strength training without equipment the latest health trends that fitness experts “hate”—they’re so easy that anyone can do them with little to no supervision. (You’ll want to check with your doctor, however, to make sure you’re physically able to exercise.) Is your time limited? Take advantage of those small blocks of unclaimed time that pop up throughout your day. Consider doing squats while you wait for your morning coffee to brew, for example, or find a spot to do wall push-ups or sit-to-stand exercises while lunch is heating up. Waiting for water to boil? Do a couple of lunges in the kitchen or stand on one leg for 20 seconds (then switch to the other) to work on your balance. The
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, after all, recommends strength training for 30 minutes, two non-consecutive days per week, so you may as well fit in a quick workout when you can. Try this at-home exercise routine, which is suitable for any level of skill (or strength) and requires zero equipment, other than objects found in most homes: • Bicep curl: Run a towel underneath the seat of a chair. With the back of the chair facing away from you, do a set of curls by lifting the chair with the towel. Most four-legged chairs weigh around 10 pounds. • Triceps dip: Sit on the edge of the chair and rest your hands on the seat behind you. Position your feet away from the bench, legs straight and heels on the floor. Lower yourself until your upper arms are parallel to the ground, then push back up. • Step-ups: With one leg, step up onto that sturdy chair and back down again, then repeat with the other leg. (Keep legs straight and try not to bend forward.) • Squats: Stand in front of that trusty chair with your feet shoulder-width apart. Place your weight more on your heels than on the balls of your feet, and bend your knees as you lower your butt toward the chair in a slow, controlled motion while you count to four. Pause, then slowly rise back up to a standing position. • Bicycle crunches. Lie on your back with knees bent and feet on the floor. Place your hands behind your head with your elbows out and lift your upper body slightly off the floor. Extend one leg out while bending the other knee toward your chest and twist your upper body so that the opposite elbow almost touches the knee. Repeat for the desired number of reps.
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BIG PLANS
’26
FOR
Did you make New Year’s resolutions? Here are the changes 10 of your Monmouth neighbors plan to implement now that the calendar is a fresh one. Every Jan. 1 brings that irresistible sense of possibility— the chance that this will finally be the year we get it right. Maybe it’s about exercising, traveling more or just learning to slow down and savor life in our own backyard. We asked our readers to share their resolutions for 2026, and the answers range from small and practical to delightfully ambitious. Whether you’re planning to run a marathon or simply remember your reusable coffee cup, these voices may inspire you to dream big—or at least start small.
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Taking it easy
“I always choose a word of the year, rather than focusing on a specific resolution. This year, I’m choosing ‘abundance.’ I want to trust in all the good things around me, that I am grounded in my values and that the things that are meant to be are flowing to me. My goal is to let go of the things I can’t control, take things as they come and trust that they will come to me when they’re supposed to.” —Nicole Garfunkel, Spring Lake
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Changing healthcare
“After 30+ years in medicine, I’ve seen how waste and profit-driven decisions often overshadow what matters most: patients! For this new year, I feel called to connect with like-minded professionals to begin creating a healthcare model that honors a person’s dignity, eliminates unnecessary middlemen and makes care affordable again. On a lighter note, I’m also determined to finally master the art of great homemade pizza!” —John M. Taylor, M.D., Atlantic Highlands
Celebrating books
“As an avid reader and proud patron of the Monmouth County Library System, I would like to read 80 books in 2026. I am excited to try some new releases, old classics and unexpected recommendations.” —Melissa Russo, Freehold
Chasing a time
“My goal for 2026 is to run the Boston Marathon in under 3:45. I’ve been training for months.” —Arturo Pardavila III, Manasquan
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Choosing joy
“This year, I will nurture my well-being by choosing joy, practicing selfcare and staying committed to my family and my health.” —Juanita Southerland, Eatontown
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Giving back
“After seeing how many people were impacted by the delay of SNAP benefits, I want to try to be more cognizant of others’ needs. This means actively contributing and donating to food pantries and fundraisers, not just waiting for government shutdowns and emergency food drives to take action. I’d also like to start volunteering, even if it’s just a couple of hours helping stock shelves or packing donation bags.” —Randy Hernandez, Manalapan
Helping filmmakers
“I’m focused on strengthening New Jersey’s film industry from the ground up. As executive director of the New Jersey Film Academy, my resolution is to help train our workforce through our community college partnerships and give independent filmmakers a platform at the Garden State Film Festival.” —Diane Raver, Sea Girt MONMOUTHMAG.COM
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Staying positive
“My 2026 New Year’s resolution is to be more positive and find the silver linings in things. I want to love myself more and be able to share that love with everyone else.” —Coco Alover-Debalko, Matawan
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Getting organized
“While I was helping my parents clean and move out of their old house, we came across old photo albums and boxes of family pictures, slides and home videos. I want to organize and digitize them to create a backup that will preserve our family history for the next generation.” —Cathleen Gavigan, Middletown
Making connections
“As the owner of two businesses, I Am Fitness and Camp Coconuts, my mission has always been to bring people together. This year, my resolution is to focus on kindness and connection and motivate other people to do the same. I want to share images and moments of the goodness I encounter every day so I can focus on what’s uplifting in the world—and so other people can too.” —Deana Valente, Middletown MONMOUTHMAG.COM
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OUR
HOME THROUGH A LENS SEVEN PHOTOGRAPHERS BRING THE BEAUTY OF MONMOUTH COUNTY INTO SHARP FOCUS.
“Photography,” said renowned photographer Berenice Abbott, “helps people see.” lndeed, the camera has the power to show us far-off, exotic places we’ll never visit. But it can also startle us anew with everyday sights we’ve come to take for granted, such as those that surround us in Monmouth County—the majesty of the ocean, the ecological marvel of wetlands, the transformative peace of forests, the rolling hills of farmland. For the next few pages, let seven photographers give you glimpses of the beauty that is Monmouth.
HERE COMES THE SUN
MICHAEL GARRISON, FAIR HAVEN. @_MIKETHEMAILMAN_
Freelance photographer Garrison says he never takes the beach’s proximity for granted: “It’s my favorite place to photograph in the early morning.” He’s also always looking for the perfect shot of the sun over the water, and this one, of someone perching on a lifeguard’s tower in Sea Bright, comes close. “I love catching sunrises from different locations across Monmouth,” he says. “There are endless possibilities for cool photos of all subject matter here. We have the ocean, the rivers, the bays, the hills of the Park System and the abandoned military base at Fort Hancock.”
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A PLACE TO REST
SEAN PETERSON, SEA GIRT. @HIKER_MOMENTS
In the waning days of autumn, Peterson captured this moment at Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold. “I took this shot because of the way the sun hit the water and surrounding trees,” says Peterson. “It was a unique view. And the Monmouth Park System was one of the key factors that convinced me to move here.” He explains: “The diversity of landscape and views here is tough to beat. There’s nothing like the drive from Sea Bright to Sandy Hook—you see so many different things.”
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STAR ON TOP
ART GARRISON, MIDDLETOWN. @NEWLIFEFARMSLLC
Sometimes you needn’t travel far for the perfect moment. It’s right outside your window—or at the end of your driveway. Garrison, the owner of New Life Farms in Middletown, discovered that one morning when one of his barn cats, Star, sat perfectly still on a fence post in the early morning. “I love taking pictures of the sun coming over the hill, or of the cattle out in the field,” he says. “But on this day she was really the Star of the show.”
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COTTON-CANDY CLOUDS
KIM PALUMBO, PRINCETON. @BETTIE_NOIR
Sunset photography or watercolor painting? With a sky like this, it can be hard to tell the difference. “On this evening, I took one look at the sky and ran over to Fletcher Lake,” says recent Monmouth resident Palumbo. “I am forever chasing the sunset.” The colors reflect onto the water, giving this Ocean Grove dock a dreamy, pastel feeling. Says Palumbo: “I love the natural beauty and energy of Monmouth County, and it gives me great joy to share that with others.”
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LIGHT THE WAY
SUSAN HILL, BAYONNE. @SHILLPHOTOS718
The light and clouds align just right to create this stunning shot of the Sandy Hook Lighthouse. “Sandy Hook is one of my favorite places to take photos of nature,” says photographer Hill. “It’s my happy place. I go there to photograph deer, foxes, birds, seals, sunsets and scenery. This day was gorgeous. My husband drove around the Hook several times and, when I saw those clouds above the lighthouse, I knew I needed the shot. I was not disappointed.”
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BATHED IN GOLD
THOMAS DOREMUS, RED BANK. @THOMASDOREMUSPHOTOGRAPHY
Nothing bespeaks shore culture more than boats on a dock—and this dock at the Monmouth Boat Club, seen from Marine Park in Red Bank, looks beautiful all lit up in orange. The sunlight also threads through the clouds above, and the shapes seem to echo the rowboats. “I looked up, saw the color of the sky and raced down to the water,” says photographer Doremus, who adds that he loves having the beauty of the shoreline at his fingertips—and in his lens.
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RUN ASHORE
NANCY BUJNOWSKI, TOMS RIVER. @PRANCING_THROUGH_LIFE
The Instagram geotag for Sea Girt was flooded with pictures of a grounded sailboat in late September and early October last year—that was the Alestorm, owned by Florida native Larry Kaehler, which ran ashore after a steering failure. It was an irresistible subject for Bujnowski, who had just attended her cousin’s beach wedding at the Sea Girt pavilion. “I was on the beach looking for sea glass, and I came across this ‘wreck’ instead,” she says. “The sun was just setting, a sea gull was flying towards me, and I pulled my camera out. There was a melancholic magic and subtle beauty to the moment. I couldn’t pass it up.” MONMOUTHMAG.COM
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MILESTONES
ART’S
HAPPENING
FOR 55 YEARS NOW, MONMOUTH ARTS HAS BEEN SHINING THE SPOTLIGHT ON THE COUNTY’S MOST TALENTED CREATORS. From bustling galleries and live-music venues to public murals and community festivals, Monmouth County’s arts scene has become one of New Jersey’s most energetic and diverse. And no one knows that better than Teresa Staub, executive director of an organization called Monmouth Arts. “The arts have grown exponentially and have become very vibrant over the years,” says Staub. “You see it everywhere, especially in towns like Asbury Park, Highlands, Belmar and Freehold. And hopefully the arts scene will continue to grow.” Monmouth Arts is the area’s largest independent arts promoter. It was founded in 1971, when the Junior League of Monmouth County identified the need for an organization to champion local arts efforts and individuals. The nonprofit’s mission was—and remains—to connect artists with audiences and communities. Since its founding it has produced and supported events, provided grants and offered services, programs and other creative opportunities that inspire people of all ages and backgrounds. For example, are you trying to hone your painting skills or interested in creating digital art? Monmouth Arts can direct you to appropriate classes. Want to showcase your drawings or photography? Monmouth Arts can help place you in an upcoming exhibit. As it celebrates its 55th anniversary in 2026, the organization looks to build on its successes for the next generation of artists. To do so, a staff of seven employees as well as a 19-member board of trustees will look to what’s worked as well as the future needs of area artists. They’ll host more mixers and meet-andgreets, arrange more workshops and organize more grant writing and fundraisers—all for a community made up of dozens of nonprofit arts groups, more than 1,000 artists, and businesses such as galleries, theaters, dance schools and design firms.
“We do a lot with our small but mighty and dedicated staff,” says Staub, who begins her ninth year with Monmouth Arts in February. An Avon-by-the-Sea resident, she’s worked in the past as a development director with the Algonquin Arts Theatre, Axelrod Performing Arts Center and New Jersey Repertory Company. Before she immersed herself in the arts, she was an executive director for the American Cancer Society in Ocean County. “After I retired from the American Cancer Society, I started volunteering when my daughter became involved with Phoenix Productions in Red Bank,” says Staub. “I’ve always loved the arts, so I naturally did more and more to support them. There’s such a plethora of talent in Monmouth County. I always tell people that there must be something in the water here that helps nourish the talent.” That wealth of ability is evident in the Teen Arts Festival, one of Monmouth Arts’ most popular yearly events. “We have nearly 2,000 teens showing off their work—there’s nothing like it,” she says. “All the young artists who are accepted show up at Brookdale Community College to not only exhibit their work, but support other art students too. They have a camaraderie that’s amazing to witness. I often bump into former participants who have come back to see the show, and they say they love it. It’s great to see how an arts festival like this shapes the future of so many people.” Staub and company also are proud of Monmouth Arts’ Creative Expressions Arts & Wellness Program. This initiative was launched shortly after the COVID shutdown and uses the arts to address the rise in mental health issues across all ages. It teams artists with mental health professionals, who then provide free arts programs and services directly to organizations, senior centers and schools. Throughout these programs, relationships are built, and the professional teams identify who could be helped by additional
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mental health services. “It can benefit young people, seniors, military personnel, everyone,” Staub says. A large mural painted in Red Bank’s Coffey Residence, for instance, was a joint effort between Creative Expressions and HABCore, which provides housing to homeless people. Monmouth Arts programs are paid for by public and private funding, which Staub says is “always a challenge” to secure. The group has been fortunate, however, to receive ongoing support through its annual gala as well as through local and state grants. Since its launch in 2021, Creative Expressions has been supported by funding from Impact 100 Jersey Coast, the Mary Owen Borden Foundation, Monmouth Park Charity Fund and others. A Monmouth County Community Block Grant helped offset the cost of the Coffey Residence mural. “We do a lot of grant writing, and we have a lot of hope and say a lot of prayers,” Staub says. “People realize how the arts can shape a community, so we’re always grateful when individuals, businesses and organizations support us.” Staub also doesn’t mind when a few A-listers shine light on the organization. Last fall, in fact, Monmouth Arts honored singer and longtime local music-and-artsscene supporter Darlene Love with its Lifetime Achievement Award in Music. Rock & Roll Hall of Famer and E Street Band member Stevie Van Zandt presented the honor to the Grammy-winning Love in a ceremony at The Stone Pony in Asbury Park. “To have Darlene Love, Little Stevie and other celebrities like Kevin Smith, Maureen Van Zandt, Vincent Pastore, Jake Clemons and chef David Burke come out and support us and Monmouth Arts is amazing,” Staub says. “But they’re only part of what makes us thrive—the biggest part, of course, is the wonderful and talented artists.”
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Monmouth Arts, the county’s leading nonprofit arts organization, has been a champion for the arts since its founding 55 years ago. Through programs and initiatives such as Creative Aging, Creative Expressions, ArtHelps and Emerging Artist Scholarships, among others, the group supports and educates talented individuals of all ages.
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ESCAPES
FUN IN THE COLD Five charming Northeast towns insist that winter isn’t an obstacle to good times— it’s an excuse for letting them roll.
There’s something irresistible about a city that knows how to celebrate the cold. Across the Northeast this season, charming downtowns and historic main streets will turn into winter wonderlands filled with ice art, live music, cozy markets and the comforting scent of hot cocoa in the air. These festive events—in five different states—prove that winter’s chill can be an excuse to make memories that truly warm the heart.
FIRE & ICE FESTIVAL, JAN. 31, MOUNT HOLLY, N.J.
New Jersey has plenty of winter destinations, from Campgaw Mountain to Mountain Creek, but few compare with the grandeur of this Burlington County town’s January festival. That’s when the downtown, about 50 miles from Monmouth County, becomes a frozen playground bursting with chilly artistry and hearty cheer. Guests stroll Main Street and Mill Race Village, watching professional sculptors carve 300- to 600-pound ice blocks into stunning works of art. Meanwhile, the “Fire” side of the festival heats up with a fierce chili cook-off, tastings and live entertainment, including dogsled demos, curling games, fire-truck rides and axe-throwing for all ages. With vendors, local shops, craft breweries and plenty of photoworthy moments, the festival offers a perfect winter outing for the whole family. Where to eat: The one-day festival will be packed with food trucks as well as chili cook-off contestants, so it’s likely you’ll fill up during the event. When the day is done but you’re not quite ready to head home, stop by Village Idiot Brewing Company for pizza and a brew or Robin’s Nest Restaurant for anything from a veggie burger and grilled cheese to mustardglazed salmon and mushroom risotto. More info: mainstreetmountholly.org
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NEWPORT WINTER FESTIVAL, FEB. 13–22, NEWPORT, R.I.
A popular summer destination, this Rhode Island city about 230 miles from Monmouth also celebrates winter. Every February, the coast buzzes during this 10-day festival, which features more than 150 events that span live music, kidfriendly workshops, wild cooking competitions and quirky winter activities for all ages. From hot drink contests (it’s hot chocolate heavy!), mac-and-cheese face-offs and chili cook-offs to magical illusion shows and silent discos, there’s something to thrill everyone. It’s a seasonshaking mix of coastline charm, community spirit and wintry whimsy—proof that chilly weather need not chill the spirit. Where to eat: If you’re not filling up on the chili and mac-and-cheese, be on the lookout for special deals, as many restaurants extend discounts to festival attendees. Families will enjoy eateries like Lucia Italian Restaurant, The Reef and Stoneacre Brasserie, all within Newport. For late-night food and brews, head to Gas Lamp Grille and The Grill at Forty 1° North in Newport as well as Rejects Beer Co. in nearby Middletown. More info: newportwinterfestival.com
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CONCORD NH WINTER FEST, JAN. 23–24, CONCORD, N.H.
The capital of the Granite State, about 310 miles from Monmouth, is rich in arts and history, but it’s all about fun when winter rolls around. Its weekend-long festival attracts New England’s best ice sculptors for glittering carving competitions and demonstrations. On the iconic State House Lawn and Capitol Street, see 300-pound ice blocks turn into art as you warm up with s’mores, vendors, wine tastings and a beer garden. There are also food trucks, a hot cocoa tour and family-friendly happenings galore (axe throwing and dog adoption events, anyone?) to entertain and amuse visitors. Where to eat: You’ll surely get your fill of burgers, tacos and dumplings from the festival food trucks, but downtown Concord has plenty of other options for those seeking a restaurant vibe. Revival Kitchen & Bar offers farm-to-table dining with dishes like sage-roasted chicken breast and seared sea scallops, while The Draft Sports Bar & Grill (burgers and barbecue) and Hermanos Cocina Mexicana (Mexican cuisine) among other spots are open for more casual gatherings. More info: intownconcord.org
SARANAC LAKE WINTER CARNIVAL, FEB. 6–15, SARANAC LAKE, N.Y.
Get ready to bundle up and dive into one of the frosty season’s most spirited celebrations. This upstate New York festival about 330 miles from our county has been lighting up the Adirondacks since 1897, making it one of the oldest traditional winter events in the U.S. Over 10 joyful days, the village of Saranac Lake—just a few miles west of Lake Placid—transforms into a wintry playground of snow-sport fun, a curling competition, creative costumes and community flair (the frying pan toss is a sight to see!). You’ll also find a show-stopping ice palace crafted from blocks pulled from Lake Flower and illuminated after a festive lighting ceremony and fireworks. Where to eat: The carnival will have dozens of snack stands and food trucks to keep you going during daytime activities (the Masons’ Winter Carnival Breakfast is a must), but you can venture into town any time for sit-down options. Bitters & Bones is a local favorite that serves a variety of soups, salads, burgers and flatbreads. Blue Moon Café is perfect for a cozy breakfast or lunch, and The Belvedere has many Italian comforts, from pasta to parms. More info: saranaclakewintercarnival.com
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STOWE WINTER CARNIVAL, JAN. 21–26, STOWE, VT.
Though best known for its world-class skiing options, the village of Stowe (roughly 380 miles away) is a January destination for its winter festival. The spirited event, first held in 1921, is part playground, part competition and all fun. Sign up for snow-golf and snow-volleyball tournaments, or sit back and watch the kids enjoy carnival games and stargazing sessions (adults can do this too!) when the sun goes down. There also is a village-wide ice-sculpting demonstration and, when things get serious, the annual National Ice Carving Associationsanctioned ice-carving competition. Festivalgoers who fall in love with the ice magic can even sign up for classes to learn the tricks of the ice-carving trade. Where to eat: Restaurant options in Stowe range from casual comfort food to fine dining. For a quick bite such as wood-fired pizza or a sweet treat, check out The Bench or Stowe Bee Bakery & Café, respectively. For those seeking more upscale dining, there’s Harrison’s Restaurant (salads, seafood, steak), Sushi Yoshi and The Bistro at Ten Acres—sip a fresh cocktail by the fire here. This event coincides with Stowe’s Winter Rendezvous, the annual LGBTQ celebration, so the festive vibes are felt throughout the village. More info: gostowe.com
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TASTES
Go Fish
These nourishing, easy-to-make recipes offer a flavorful way to support your wellness goals.
OVEN-ROASTED COD Yields 4 servings INGREDIENTS 4 Tbs. butter, divided ½ sleeve buttery round crackers (such as Ritz), crushed 1 lb. thick-cut cod loin ½ medium lemon, juiced ¼ cup dry white wine 1 Tbs. fresh parsley, chopped springs of thyme for garnish 1 medium lemon, cut into wedges
DIRECTIONS Gather all ingredients. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place 2 tablespoons of butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Melt in the microwave on high, about 30 seconds. Stir buttery round crackers into melted butter. Place remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a 7-by-11-inch baking dish. Melt in the preheated oven, 1 to 3 minutes. Remove dish from oven. Coat both sides of cod in melted butter in the baking dish. Bake cod in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from oven; top with lemon juice, wine and cracker mixture. Return to the oven and bake until fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, about 10 more minutes. Garnish with parsley and thyme and serve with lemon wedges and simple salad.
“Cod is unbelievably simple to prepare. In this recipe, I would opt to use heart-healthy olive oil or avocado oil in place of butter. Butter tends to be higher in saturated fat, while olive oil and avocado oil are both filled with healthy omega-3s. Enjoy this recipe with fiber-rich veggies or a delicious salad!” —Ashley Kravitz, registered dietitian, Nutrition Specialists of New Jersey, Freehold
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TASTES
BLACKENED SALMON Yields 4 servings INGREDIENTS 2 tsp. sea salt 1 tsp. onion granules 1 tsp. garlic granules 1 tsp. dry oregano 1 tsp. dry thyme 2 tsp. paprika ½ tsp. ground white pepper ½ tsp. cayenne pepper 4 Tbs. oil 3 8-oz. fresh salmon fillets
DIRECTIONS In a small bowl mix together the salt, onion granules, garlic granules, oregano, thyme, paprika, white pepper and cayenne pepper until combined. Set aside. Next, add 3 tablespoons of olive oil to a large plate and mix in 2 tablespoons of the blackened seasoning using a fork or a whisk until completely combined. Add the salmon fillets to the mixture and coat it thoroughly on all sides. Set aside. Add the 1 tablespoon of oil to a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat until it begins to lightly smoke. Place the blackened salmon fillets into the pan, turn the heat down to medium-low, and cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until well browned and the desired internal temperature is achieved. Remove the salmon from the pan and serve with rice.
“Sal eat i also heal and with
“Salmon is absolutely one of my favorite protein sources—I eat it two or three times a week! Not only is it delicious, it’s also filled with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which support healthy cholesterol levels. Salmon is also simple to prepare and only takes minutes to cook. I would serve this recipe with some veggies in addition to the rice.” —Ashley Kravitz, registered dietitian, Nutrition Specialists of New Jersey, Freehold
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BAR TAB
Smash Hit
This sweet, tart ginger cocktail is ready to steal the spotlight.
CHERRY SMASH Makes: 1 serving
INGREDIENTS 5 cherries, pitted and cut in half 1 tsp. natural cane sugar 6 mint leaves ¹/³ oz. lemon juice ice 2 oz. dark rum 1 ginger beer DIRECTIONS Add the cherries, cane sugar, peppermint leaves and lemon juice to a glass. Mash everything well with a muddler. Alternatively, use the back of a wooden spoon if you do not own a muddler. Make sure to extract all the cherry juices when smashing for the best flavor. Add ice to the glass, using as much as you can but saving space to add the rum and ginger beer. Pour in the rum then fill the glass with the ginger beer. Stir using a spoon and garnish with cherries and mint leaves.
COURTESY OF OHSWEETCULTURESHOCK.COM
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HEALTH PROFESSIONALS TO WATCH SPECIAL ADVERTISTING SECTION
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HEALTH PROFESSIONALS TO WATCH
Robert F. Coombs, D.C.
Coombs Chiropractic 2424 Bridge Ave., Point Pleasant, NJ 08742 732.899.9600 | www.CoombsChiropractic.com Empowering moms to have a better birth experience has been Dr. Rob Coombs’ mission since establishing his practice in 2002. Mom-groups, Midwives and Obstetricians consistently refer their patients to his office to balance pelvic alignment, engage belly breathing and ensure the baby’s positioning affords a more efficient labor and delivery! While having tremendous success over the years helping breech misalignments, pregnant moms are also typically referred to Dr. Rob for dystocia, digestive issues and back pain. Post-natal care is extremely beneficial to moms and babies, as well, often reducing pain and improving healing and bonding. Gentle newborn assessments ensure normal spinal alignment and neck movement. Referrals for babies suffering from delayed crawling, torticollis, shoulder syndromes as well as colic and general digestive issues are common since most babies quickly improve, being very responsive to chiropractic adjustments. Given that toddlers typically fall ~5,000 times by their 5th birthday, more and more parents are recognizing the importance of receiving regular chiropractic check-ups for their older children as well. Chiropractic care has been proven to be both safe and effective not only for falls, colds, ear infections, sprains and strains, regardless of age, but for health and overall wellness as well.
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HEALTH PROFESSIONALS TO WATCH
Anthony Morelli, DO
President of Medical Staff, Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Tinton Falls 2 Centre Plaza, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724 732.460.5320 | www.encompasshealth.com Dr. Anthony Morelli has been a dedicated member of Encompass Health for over a decade, and in 2025, he proudly serves as President of the Medical Staff. Recognized for exemplifying clinical excellence, Dr. Morelli brings a deep understanding of patient care across the continuum, with experience as a primary care physician, hospitalist, and in post-acute care settings. He also serves as a Physician Advisor at Monmouth Medical Center, further demonstrating his commitment to improving healthcare delivery. At Encompass Health, Dr. Morelli works as part of a private hospitalist practice, admitting and managing patients while collaborating with an exceptional interdisciplinary team. His confidence in the hospital’s reputation is personal—he has entrusted Encompass with the care of family and friends, citing its outstanding physical therapy services, responsive nursing staff, and expert medical team. The hospital offers comprehensive care supported by consulting physicians in cardiology, neurology, pulmonology, endocrinology, psychiatry, nephrology, infectious disease, and podiatry. Additional strengths include a robust wound care program, an in-house dialysis unit, and an active pharmacy team focused on education and medication management. Beth Sarfaty, CEO of Encompass Health Tinton Falls, shares: “Dr. Morelli has been instrumental as a physician leader in our hospital. Working closely with internal medicine providers and our medical director, he is always looking for ways to improve our clinical capabilities, impact patient outcomes, and be recognized as a leader in post-acute care.” With top-tier therapy services—physical, occupational, and speech—Encompass Health prepares patients for successful transitions home, making it a trusted choice for rehabilitation and recovery.
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HEALTH PROFESSIONALS TO WATCH
Gagandeep Singh, MD
505 Stillwells Corner Rd, Unit C3, Freehold, NJ 07728 (and primarily VIRTUAL) 609.245.8550 | www.gsinghmd.com Dr. Gagandeep Singh, MD, is a double board-certified psychiatrist specializing in child, adolescent, and adult mental health. With over 15 years of experience, he offers comprehensive evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy tailored to each patient’s unique needs. His practice integrates modern convenience through telehealth sessions while maintaining a deeply personalized approach. Born in India and raised in New Jersey, Dr. Singh brings a unique cultural perspective to his work, recognizing the profound impact of cultural influences and mental health stigmas. While he works with all ages and backgrounds, Dr. Singh is also committed to addressing the needs of the South Asian community and promoting mental health awareness through education and outreach. What sets Dr. Singh apart is his dedication to extended session times, allowing for thorough assessments and meaningful conversations that foster trust and rapport. His care philosophy emphasizes ethical practices, patient-centered decisions, and evidence-based recommendations. By respecting cultural values and individual preferences, Dr. Singh ensures that every treatment plan is as distinctive as the person receiving it. Fluent in four languages (English, Spanish, Hindi and Punjabi), he bridges communication gaps and connects with patients from diverse backgrounds. Through his compassionate and meticulous approach, Dr. Singh continues to make a lasting impact on mental health care one patient at a time. Please note Dr. Singh’s sessions are via telehealth unless otherwise noted when scheduling. In person sessions are by appointment only and planned with the patient in advance.
THE
VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT GUIDE
COMING IN FEBRUARY
Showcase your products and services at a time when readers are seeking the ideal gifts for their loved ones. Ad Deadline: January 7, 2026
To reserve space, contact Jodi Bruker, Publisher at 732-778-4744 or jodi.bruker@wainscotmedia.com.
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RESTAURANT REVIEW
Talking Türkiye There’s something to be said for being early. Early on a Saturday evening. Early for the dinner hour. Early, even, in a restaurant’s life cycle. My girlfriend and I arrived at Rings Mediterranean Cuisine in Manalapan before the regular dinner crowd—well before, in fact. The room was calm, the staff unhurried and the place still carried that gentle newrestaurant echo, the kind that suggests that the paint has only just dried. Rings had been open barely a month, and we were so early to the party that not all its furniture had yet arrived. It felt a bit like dining in a soft opening and an empty apartment simultaneously—and somehow, everything felt just right. What struck us first was the warmth of the dining room despite its fledgling state. The natural light of early evening slipped in through the front windows, and the staff welcomed us with excitement and kindness. In fact, we received as much attention and care as the baby shower on the other side of the room. But, in our experience, first-class hospitality is one of the things we’ve come to expect at a Turkish restaurant. Something else we look forward to: great-tasting food. On this score Rings didn’t disappoint. Its menu is big; we’re talking more-than100-items big. That could’ve made choosing dishes overwhelming, but our server patiently kept our teacups filled as we debated our selections. To further take our minds off the struggle, staff even encouraged us to get up and dance to the traditional Turkish music playing softly overhead. (Though tempted, we declined the invitation to dance.) When we finally made our choices, we went with two familiar appetizers. The first was hummus, a creamy blend of chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, garlic and lemon juice. It was strikingly smooth and rich enough that we found ourselves slowing down just to savor it properly. It was served with balon ekmek, visually stunning, oven-baked Turkish balloon bread, which we ripped apart and used to scoop the chickpea dip. Our second starter was stuffed grape leaves. Each bite was light,
RINGS MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE 299 Rte. 9, Manalapan, 732.858.9888; ringsrestaurant.com
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bright and tender, and the creamy rice inside was balanced with tangy citrus and herb flavors. With dozens of kebab, chop and pide (Turkish flatbread) options, picking entrées wasn’t as easy as choosing appetizers, but we were eager to dive into what we ultimately ordered. My main was Adana kebab combo, a take on the classic seasoned skewer that’s named after a city in Türkiye (that’s now the official spelling). The dish came with both minced lamb and chicken kebabs, each deeply seasoned, beautifully charred and carrying that unmistakable smoky heat that can make Adana such a satisfying choice. Each bite was bold without being overwhelming, and had a flavor profile that invited one to pause just long enough to appreciate it before going back in. My girlfriend, meanwhile, had the salmon kebab. The fish was perfectly grilled—crisp at the edges, delicate within—proof that simplicity, when executed precisely, is its own luxury. The accompanying grilled vegetables, onions and peppers, also had a tasty char, which was offset nicely by a side of pickled cabbage and radish. Though we were stuffed with meat, bread and veggies, dessert was a nonnegotiable, and künefe delivered a flourish to the meal’s conclusion. The crisp filo embraced its molten cheese center, sweetened with syrup and crushed pistachio just enough to make you linger over the final bite. It’s a dish that feels both familiar and quietly elegant. Though the food was outstanding, what we enjoyed most about Rings, especially for a restaurant so early in its run, is its sense of identity. The service was warm without hovering, the open kitchen was assured without showing off, and the atmosphere— furniture or not—already felt settled. We may have come early, but everything at Rings seemed right on time. —Darius Amos
Photos by Darius Amos
Manalapan’s Rings Mediterranean Cuisine is brand new, but its flavors and hospitality suggest a seasoned favorite.
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12/17/25 11:43 AM
ON THE TOWN
Where To Eat
Getting three squares a day has never been easier—Monmouth County is home to a selection of restaurants diverse enough to satisfy all of your cravings.
Stella Marina Restaurant & Bar, Asbury Park
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Iron Whale 1200 Ocean Ave. 732.361.5185 ironwhalenj.com Moonstruck 517 Lake Ave. 732.988.0123 moonstrucknj.com Pascal & Sabine 601 Bangs Ave. 732.774.3395 pascalandsabine.com Porta 911 Kingsley St. 732.776.7661 pizzaporta.com Robinson Ale House 1200 Ocean Ave. N. 732.774.1400 therobinsonalehouse asburypark.com Stella Marina Restaurant & Bar 800 Ocean Ave. 732.775.7776 stellamarinarestaurant.com Taka 660 Cookman Ave. 732.775.1020 takaasburypark.com Talula’s 550 Cookman Ave. 732.455.3003 talulaspizza.com ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS Copper Canyon 51 First Ave. 732.291.8444 thecoppercanyon.com Harborside Grill 40 First Ave. 732.291.0066 theharborsidegrill.com Kunya Siam Thai Restaurant 99 First Ave. 732.291.2397 kunyasiam.com
On The Deck 10 Simon Lake Dr. 732.872.1424 onthedeckrestaurant.com
The Buttered Biscuit, Bradley Beach
AVON-BY-THE-SEA Clementine’s 306 Main St. 732.988.7979 clementinesavon.com Seed to Sprout 410 Main St. 732.774.7333 seedtosproutnj.com BELFORD Belford Bistro 870 Main St. 732.495.8151 belfordbistro.com Naples Pizzeria 872 Main St. 732.787.9479 BELMAR 10th Ave. Burrito Co. 801 Belmar Plz. 732.280.1515 tenthaveburrito.com Anchor Tavern 713 Main St. 732.280.2266 anchortavernnj.com Boathouse Bar & Grill 1309 Main St. 732.681.5221 boathousebarandgrill.com Brandl 703 Belmar Plz. 732.280.7501 brandlrestaurant.com Federico’s 700 Main St. 732.681.6936 federicospizza.com La Dolce Vita 400 Ocean Ave. 732.749.3177 ladolcevitanj.com
BRADLEY BEACH The Buttered Biscuit 700 Main St. 732.807.4069 thebutteredbiscuitcafe. com
The Pig and Parrot Sandbar 201 Union Ln. 732.528.7750 thepigandparrot.com
The Elbow Room 416 Main St. 732.898.6860 elbowroomnj.com
Shipwreck Grill 720 Ashley Ave. 732.292.9380 shipwreckgrill.com
BRIELLE Due Amici 420 Higgins Ave. 732.528.0666 dueamicibriellenj.com
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La Mondina 110 Union Ave. 732.612.8331 lamondinabrielle.com
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EATONTOWN All Seasons Restaurant 176 Wyckoff Rd. 732.542.9462 allseasonsrestaurant.net
Aarzu Modern Indian Bistro 30 E. Main St. 732.333.0933 aarzu.com
ENGLISHTOWN Rosalita’s Roadside Cantina 180 Rte. 9 732.617.0099 rosalitasnj.com
Court Jester 16 E. Main St. 732.462.1040 courtjesternj.com
FREEHOLD 618 Restaurant 618 Park Ave. 732.577.0001 618nj.com
El Meson 40 W. Main St. 732.308.9494 elmesoncafe.com
Photos courtesy of Stella Marina Restaurant & Bar, The Buttered Biscuit, Peking Pavilion, Spring Lake Tap House
ASBURY PARK Heirloom at The St. Laurent 408 7th Ave. 732.795.2582 thestlaurent.com
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Federici’s Family Restaurant 14 E. Main St. 732.462.1312 federicis.com
Tommy’s Tavern + Tap 3492 Rte. 9 732.543.0053 tommystavernandtap.com
Yesterday’s Restaurant 3153 Rte. 35 732.264.3777 yesterdaysnj.com
HOLMDEL Palumbo’s 24 Ayers Ln. palumbospizza35.com 732.671.8820
Marmara Mediterranean Cuisine 3710 Rte. 9 732.808.2727 marmaracuisine.com
Tre Pizza Pasta Beer Garden 611 Park Ave. 732.751.4422 trepizzanj.com
HIGHLANDS Bahrs Landing 2 Bay Ave. 732.872.1245 bahrslandingnj.com
KEYPORT Drew’s Bayshore Bistro 25 Church St. 732.739.9219 drewsbayshorebistro.com
Metropolitan Cafe 8 E. Main St. 732.780.9400 metrocafenj.com
HAZLET Neil Michael’s Steakhouse 1104 Rte. 36 732.217.3626 neilmichaelsteak house.com
Proving Ground 56 Shrewsbury Ave. 732.872.2266 theprovingground.com
LONG BRANCH 21 A On Broadway 202 Broadway 732.483.6967 21aonbroadway.com
Peking Pavilion, Manalapan
Avenue 23 Ocean Ave. 732.759.2900 avenuelongbranch.com
Harpoon Willy’s 2655 River Rd. 732.223.8880 harpoonwillys.com
Charley’s Ocean Grill 29 Avenel Blvd. 732.222.4499 charleysoceangrill.com
The Salty Whale And Guesthouse 390 E. Main St. 732.592.3344 thesaltywhale.com
Mar Belo 611 Broadway 732.870.2222 marbelorestaurant.com
Squan Tavern 15 Broad St. 732.223.3324 squantavern.com
McLoone’s Pier House 1 Ocean Ave. N. 732.795.3493 mcloonespierhouse.com
MATAWAN Buttonwood Manor 845 Rte. 34 N. buttonwoodmanor.com
Rooney’s Oceanfront 100 Ocean Ave. N. 732.870.1200 rooneysocean.com
MIDDLETOWN MJ’s Restaurant Bar & Grill 1005 Rte. 35 732.796.1400 mjsrestaurant.com
Sirena Ristorante 27 Ocean Ave. N. 732.222.1119 sirenaristorante.com MANALAPAN Anemos Greek Cuisine 333 Rte. 9 732.414.6590 anemosgreekcuisine.com Cholula Restaurant 24 Wilson Ave. 732.786.0080 cholularestaurant englishtown.com
Neelam Exotic Indian Cuisine 1178 Rte. 35 S. 732.671.8900 neelamindiancuisine.com NEPTUNE Il Posto 1129 Fifth Ave. 732.775.4823 Molinari’s 312 W. Sylvania Ave. 732.775.7733 molinarisrestaurant.com
Manalapan Diner 48 Rte. 9 732.462.7165 manalapandiner.com
Pete & Elda’s 96 Woodland Ave. 732.774.6010 peteandeldas.com
Nonna’s Citi Cucina 190 Rte. 9 N. 732.536.9050 nonnasnj.com
OCEAN Illiano’s 933 W. Park Ave. 732.493.2003 illianosrestaurant.net
Peking Pavilion 110 Rte. 33 732.308.9700 pekingpavilion.com
Piccola Italia 837 W. Park Ave. 732.493.3090 piccolaitalianj.com
MANASQUAN Blend on Main 152 Main St. 732.223.0030 blendonmain.com
*Editor’s note: Patrons are encouraged to confirm individual restaurant hours as well as policies regarding reservations and curbside service.
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ON THE TOWN RED BANK 26 West On The Navesink 26 W. Front St. 732.383.5664 26westonthenavesink.com Birravino 183 Riverside Ave. 732.842.5990 birravino.com B2 Bistro + Bar 141 Shrewsbury Ave. 732.268.8555 b2bistro.com Char Steakhouse 33 Broad St. 732.450.2427 charsteakhouse.com Danny’s 11 Bridge Ave. 732.741.6900 dannyssteakhouse.com JBJ Soul Kitchen 207 Monmouth St. 732.842.0900 jbjsoulkitchen.com Juanito’s Restaurant 159 Monmouth St. 732.747.9118 juanitosredbank.com Kitch Organic 75 Leighton Ave. 732.471.5400 kitchorganic.com Molly Pitcher Inn 88 Riverside Ave. 732.747.2500 themollypitcher.com Muang Thai Restaurant 7 E. Front St. 732.741.9999 muangthairedbank.com New Corner Italian Restaurant & Pizza 22 E. Front St. 732.530.1007 newcornerredbank.com Nicholas Barrel & Roost 160 Rte. 35 S. 732.345.9977 barrelandroost.com
Patrizia’s 28 Broad St. 732.741.5555 patrizias.com Pazzo MMX 141 W. Front St. 732.747.4551 pazzoredbank.com Teak 64 Monmouth St. 732.747.5775 teakrestaurant.com RUMSON Barnacle Bill’s 1 First St. 732.747.8396 barnaclebills rumson.com Giorgia 102 Ave. of Two Rivers 732.741.3880 ristorantegiorgia.com River Pointe Inn 132 E. River Rd. 732.530.6590 riverpointeinn.com Salt Creek Grille 4 Bingham Ave. 732.933.9272 saltcreekgrille.com Undici 11 W. River Rd. 732.842.3880 undicirestaurant.com Victory Park Tavern 21 W. River Rd. 732.842.6205 victoryparktavern.com SEA BRIGHT Anjelica’s 1070 Ocean Ave. 732.842.2800 anjelicas.com
Spring Lake Tap House, Spring Lake Tommy’s Tavern + Tap 1030 Ocean Ave. 732.842.5044 tommystavernandtap.com
Eventide Grille 1400 Ocean Ave. N. 732.530.1414 eventidegrille.com The Rum Runner 816 Ocean Ave. 732.842.2894 mcloonesrumrunner.com
SEA GIRT Fratello’s 810 The Plaza 732.974.8833 fratellosnj.com
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D’jeet 637 Broad St. 732.224.8887 djeetcatering.com SPRING LAKE Amelia’s By The Sea 1505 Ocean Ave. N. 732.769.5700 ameliasbythesea.com
SHREWSBURY Americana Diner 1160 Rte. 35 S. 732.542.1658 americanadiner.net
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Bayroot 555 Shrewsbury Ave. 732.747.3444 bayrootmarket.com
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Spring Lake Tap House 810 Rte. 71 732.282.1530 springlaketaphouse.com
WALL Meemom’s 1825 Rte. 35 732.359.8544 meemoms.com
St. Stephen’s Green Publick House 2031 Rte. 71 732.449.2626 ssgpub.com
Mossuto’s Market & Cafe 2029 Rte. 35 S. 732.449.8058 mossutosmarketnj.com
Whispers 200 Monmouth Ave. 732.974.9755 whispersrestaurant.com
Shogun Legends 1969 Rte. 34 732.449.6696 shogunlegends.com
JANUARY 2026
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HAPPENINGS
Be There
Start the year off with live music, unforgettable shows and non-stop laughs in Monmouth County. JAN. 10 Explore the beauty of the winter shoreline at Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area in Manasquan. A Monmouth County parks naturalist will guide you on a WINTER BEACH WALK, where you can collect and identify some of the ocean’s natural treasures and spot amazing wildlife. Dress warm, and bring a bag for shells. The free event begins at 11 a.m. For more information, check out monmouthcountyparks.com.
JAN. 17–25 Manasquan’s Algonquin Arts Theatre stages SAME TIME, NEXT YEAR, based on the beloved film starring Alan Alda and Ellen Burstyn. This romantic comedy follows the unique relationship of a couple who meets only once a year for 25 years and is filled with wit, tenderness and plenty of laughs. Multiple shows are available, including matinees. For tickets and more, see algonquinarts.org.
JAN. 10 Brave the cold for a great cause at the SAVE COASTAL WILDLIFE POLAR PLUNGE in Sea Bright. Join others for a dip in the Atlantic Ocean and raise funds to support Save Coastal Wildlife’s mission to restore and protect biodiversity along the Jersey Shore. Check in starts at 10 a.m., and the plunge is at noon. To register and find out more, see savecoastalwildlife.org. JAN. 15 Twin Lights Brewing in Tinton Falls hosts a fun and friendly TRIVIA NIGHT! Grab your team (or challenge your friends!) and compete for great prizes while sipping some brews. The games begin at 7 p.m. Visit twinlightsbrewing.com for additional information.
JAN. 17–18 If you’re itching for a home reno in 2026, the JERSEY SHORE HOME SHOW can help with all your needs. Stop by Collins Arena in Lincroft for two days of home improvement vendors, professionals and designers, all ready to make your projects into a reality. Doors open at 10 a.m. each day. For early registration and more information, head over to njhomeshow-br.com.
JAN. 17–25 Over at Two River Theater in Red Bank, the popular “A Little Shakespeare” program (in which the cast and crew are all local high school students) returns with a staging of AS YOU LIKE IT. This comedy follows the adventures of cousins Rosalind and Celia as they flee into the woods and meet many curious characters along the way. Multiple shows are available, including matinees. For tickets and more, head over to tworivertheater.org.
*Editor’s note: All events are subject to cancellations or changes. Attendees are encouraged to confirm dates and times with organizers and venues.
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JAN. 18 The prehistoric comes to the Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank with DINOSAUR WORLD LIVE, an interactive show for the whole family. Watch as fantastic acting and amazing puppetry bring these beasts to life, from the Tyrannosaurus rex to the Triceratops. Hang around afterward for a meet and greet and a chance to make a new dinosaur friend. Doors open at 1 p.m., and adventure begins at 2. For tickets, see thebasie.org.
JAN. 24 For a pitch-perfect tribute act that’s been together since 2007, stop by Asbury Park’s The Stone Pony and see DAMN THE TORPEDOES. The Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers tribute band will perform Petty’s hits and fanfavorite deep cuts. The show starts at 8 p.m., and tickets can be found at stoneponyonline.com.
JAN. 30 The Eastern Monmouth Area Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual HEALTH AND WELLNESS EXPO. Held at Brookdale Community College in Lincroft, this event brings together the area’s top health and wellness professionals, from nutritionists to dentists to dermatologists, each of them ready to help you make 2026 your best year yet. Doors open at noon. For more information, visit emacc.org.
JAN. 30 Hosted by Uncle Vinnie’s Comedy Club, stand-up comedian, internet personality and actor VIC DIBITETTO performs at the American Hotel in Freehold. Dubbed as “The Working Class Zero” and “Italian Hurricane,” DiBitetto is known for his YouTube videos and non-stop energy. The show starts at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information, check out unclevinniescomedyclub.com. JAN. 31 At Asbury Park’s Wonder Bar, see singer-songwriter TOM HAMILTON for a one-night show on the tour for his new album, I’m Your Vampire. He’s nnown for his eclectic style and tendency to push the musical envelope, making this a can’t-miss ticket at a can’t-miss venue. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the show starts at 8. For more information, head over to wonderbarasburypark.com.
JAN. 24 At the Jersey Shore Arts Center’s Palaia Theater in Ocean Grove, catch a performance by NATHAN GRAHAM AND BAND. Known for mixing South Side Blues, Nashville Americana and a touch of soul, Graham promises to deliver a performance that will bring a smile to your face. Everything kicks off at 8 p.m. For tickets and more information, check out jerseyshorearts center.org.
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ON THE TOWN
Gatherings
Monmouth residents always show up to support their friends and neighbors. 1
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5 1. MONMOUTH HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Monmouth Habitat for Humanity recently celebrated the groundbreaking of its 85th affordable home in the county. Volunteers, supporters and friends gathered on Walling Avenue in Wall Township to mark the start of another build.
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2-3. ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION About 1,000 residents participated in the 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s held in Bradley Beach. Participants joined a two-mile walk for the fundraiser. Nearly $250,000 was raised to help further the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association.
4-5. FAMILY AND CHILDREN’S SERVICE Long Branch-based Family and Children’s Service held its Leading Lights Gala at the Shore Car Club in Ocean Township. Attendees supported the FCS mission to provide compassionate care, intervention and education to support people during challenging times in their lives.
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6. LUNCH BREAK Lunch Break, a nonprofit in Red Bank, held its Imagine the Possibilities Gala at the Shadowbrook at Shrewsbury. The event helped support the group’s mission of providing food, clothing, life skills, housing solutions and fellowship to neighbors in need.
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7. FULFILL Community spirit was in full swing at Livoti’s Old World Market for its annual “Buca in Uno” golf outing. Nearly $105,000 was raised and donated to Fulfill, a food bank located in Neptune Township. Funding will be used to provide meals, resources and hope to thousands of neighbors across Monmouth and Ocean counties.
8. MONMOUTH REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce held a Speakeasy Night Club at Jumping Brook Country Club in Neptune Township. Part of the chamber’s “Perk After Work” events, the networking program had a festive 1920s theme.
Habitat for Humanity (1), Alzheimer’s Association (2–3), Family and Children’s Service (4–5), Lunch Break (6), Fulfill (7), Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce (8)
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NEWLYWEDS WELCOME NEW YEAR, NEW LIFE
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RINGWOOD COLONIAL GETS MODERN OUTDOOR OASIS IN MANTOLOKING
BACKYARD RENO DOUBLES HOME’S LIVING SPACE
MANTOLOKING OASIS
THE SUMMER ISSUE
COLONIAL REDO
NEW POOL REFLECTS MONTCLAIR COLONIAL’S CHARM
FAMILY AFFAIR IN LIVINGSTON
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VERONA REVIVAL, REVEALED
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MAKE A SPLASH
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Happy 100! THE WOMEN GARDENERS OF RIDGEWOOD
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From the top of Bergen to the bottom of Monmouth, we cover New Jersey like nobody else. If you want to reach the most affluent households and influential businesses in these counties and places in between, contact Publisher Tom Flannery today at 201.571.2252 or thomas.flannery@wainscotmedia.com.
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A MONMOUTH MOMENT
“We live in a beautiful place. I walk the beach and boardwalk daily to watch the sunrise, and I always take photos. The hour before it rises is the nicest. One early morning before the clocks changed in October, I captured this runner.”
Send us your Monmouth Moment! Email your photo and a short description to rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com.
MONMOUTH Magazine Volume 24, Issue 1 (ISSN# 3066-2885 and USPS 25821) is published 12 times a year by Wainscot Media, One Maynard Dr., Park Ridge, NJ 07656. Postmaster: Send address changes to Subscription Department, Wainscot Media, One Maynard Dr., Park Ridge, NJ 07656. Periodicals postage paid at Park Ridge, N.J., and additional mailing offices.
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Photo courtesy of Vincent J. Dicks, Instagram: @tjvvin12
—Vincent J. Dicks, Sea Girt
JANUARY 2026
12/17/25 11:46 AM
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