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Fair Haven Councilwoman Michal DiMiceli looks forward to

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All across Monmouth County, residents are celebrating the New Year and making their resolutions. Here’s what some of our readers are looking forward to in 2025…

Leesha Floyd, Asbury Park

I’m looking forward to traveling, good food, and good drinks.

Margaret Wheeler, Asbury Park

I’m looking forward to finally going to Europe.

Joann Boos, Asbury Park

Looking forward to a less stressful year.

Daniel Pickelny, Ocean

In 2025, I’m looking forward to finishing my classes and making big steps in my career.

ChrisAnn DeGenaro, Asbury Park

I’m looking forward to better health, fitness, and making new friends.

Michele Alonso, Asbury Park

I’ll be making more time in 2025 for friends and family.

Sarah Neczesny, Fair Haven

I’m looking forward to graduating college!

Anthony Cucci, Asbury Park

In 2025, I’ll be continuing my goal of visiting all the national parks, as well as visiting every diner in New Jersey!

Michele Burrell, Asbury Park

Looking forward to new beginnings.

Sylvia Sylvia-Cioffi, Ocean

I’m really excited about going on a family vacation to Spain and Portugal this year.

from COMMUNITY MAGAZINE TO YOU!

Jamie Eckhoff, Rumson

I’m looking forward to my sister’s wedding, and for new film opportunities in New Jersey.

Cassandra Dickerson, Asbury Park

Great health and continued love for my family. Morgan Astorino, Asbury Park

Traveling! And hopefully going back to my favorite city, New Orleans.

Meg Ryan, Ocean

In 2025, I’m looking forward to starting my first full time job and potentially starting graduate school.

Vinny Mangano, Asbury Park

Looking forward to going to more concerts.

John Hayes, Asbury Park

Looking forward to my 20th wedding anniversary.

The Community Magazine staff celebrates 2025 as well! Here’s what some of us are looking forward to…

Emma Sylvia, Ocean

I’m looking forward to another year of actually sticking to my New Year’s resolutions. In 2024, my goal was to watch more movies and go to the gym - both of which I accomplished. In 2025, my goal is to write more and practice art.

Roseanne Sofia, Lincroft

I’m excited to get into the best shape of my life and take more walks in the park in 2025.

Ryan Loughlin, Asbury Park

I am looking forward to doing more outdoorsy things this year. Hiking at Yosemite and finally snowboarding again after a 22-year hiatus are both at the top of my list.

L to R:

If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident in New Jersey, you need a law firm with a proven track record and the experience to aggressively fight to get you the maximum compensation for your personal injury lawsuit.

For more than 75 years, Drazin and Warshaw has worked tirelessly, treating every client like a member of the family to make sure they get the justice they deserve. Clients matter. Results matter. Trust matters. When you need help, call Drazin and Warshaw.

*Selected to Super Lawyers **Selected to Rising Stars

Indoor FUN for Everyone

Post-holiday blues got you down?

With the short days and long winter ahead, it’s easy to get the blues around this time of year. But although it’s admittedly not the most thrilling month of the year, January is the perfect time to enjoy cozy indoor activities. Here are some ideas for indoor fun:

1. Board Games or Card Games

Gather your family or friends for a fun game night. Classic board games like Monopoly, Scrabble, or newer ones like Codenames can keep everyone entertained. Card games like Poker, Uno, or Go Fish are also great options.

2. Indoor Movie Marathon

Set up a cozy spot with blankets and pillows, and watch a series of movies or binge-watch a show. You can even make it a themed movie marathon (e.g., holiday movies, superhero films, or nostalgic 90s flicks).

5. Puzzles

Tackle a large jigsaw puzzle, which can be a calming and satisfying activity. You can also try crosswords, Sudoku, or other brain teasers.

4. Crafting

Try your hand at crafting projects like knitting, painting, scrapbooking, or even

making homemade holiday decorations. It’s a creative way to spend time indoors and you might even have something to show for it!

5. Baking or Cooking

Winter is a great time to bake. Try making cookies, cakes, or bread. You could also cook a hearty winter meal or soup. The warmth of the oven and the smell of freshly baked goods can make the house feel extra cozy.

6. Reading

Curl up with a good book and enjoy the winter silence. You could also join a virtual book club or listen to audiobooks for a different experience.

7. Indoor Gardening

If you miss nature in the winter, you can bring the outdoors in by starting an indoor garden. Try growing herbs, small vegetables, or indoor plants like succulents and ferns.

8. DIY Home Spa

Turn your bathroom into a relaxing retreat with a DIY spa day. Light candles, use essential oils, take a long bath, and do skincare treatments.

9. Virtual Events

Many events like live concerts, theater

performances, or museum tours are available online. Check out virtual experiences for a fun, cultural escape from the cold.

10. Home Workouts

If you want to stay active, try an indoor workout like yoga, Pilates, or a dance party. Many apps or YouTube channels offer free classes for all levels.

11. Indoor Obstacle Course or Hide-and-Seek

If you have kids or are looking for something active, create an indoor obstacle course with pillows, chairs, and other furniture. Or, play hide-and-seek throughout the house.

12. Learn Something New

Winter is a great time to pick up a new hobby or learn a skill. Try learning a new language, taking an online course, or teaching yourself to play an instrument.

13. Building a Fort

Sometimes, the simplest activities are the most fun! Build a fort out of blankets and pillows, and hang out in your cozy hideaway. You could even have a picnic or watch a movie inside.

These activities are great for keeping the winter blues at bay while staying cozy and entertained indoors!

EVERY SUNDAY

Beats & Crafts with DJ Ghost Gardner

Join Ghost Gardener Studios for a lo-fi, lowkey craft night at The Asbury Hotel every Sunday.

The Asbury Hotel, 210 5th Ave, Asbury Park 7pm - 10pm

For more information, visit theasburyhotel.com

TUESDAY-WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31-JANUARY 1

New Year’s Eve Party w/ Friend Zone Celebrate the New Year at Marina Grille in Belmar.

Belmar Marina, 905 NJ-35, Belmar 8pm - 1am

For more information, visit marinagrillenj.com

NYE Celebration at Ocean Place Resort & Spa

Head over to the Ocean Place Resort and Spa to celebrate the New Year. Ocean Place, 1 Ocean Blvd, Long Branch 8pm - 12:15am

For more information, visit oceanplace.com

New Year’s Eve at McLoone’s

Have delicious food, a champagne toast, and watch fireworks this New Year’s Eve.

McLoone’s Pier House One Ocean Ave, Long Branch 11am - 12am

For more information, visit mcloonespierhouse.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 3

Open Mic Night

Head to Twin Lights Brewing to participate in their monthly Open Mic Night, hosted by Tim Enny. Twin Lights Brewing 4057 Asbury Ave, Tinton Falls 6pm - 10pm

For more information, visit twinlightsbrewing.com

SATURDAY, JANUARY 4

Magic of Lights

Visit the PNC Bank Arts Center for the final night of their Magic of Lights drivethrough holiday lights experience. PNC Bank Arts Center 116 Garden State Pkwy, Holmdel 5pm - 11pm

For more information, visit magicoflights.com

SUNDAY, JANUARY 5

Luminocity Holiday Lights Festival

Head to Freehold Raceway Mall for the final night of the 2024 Holiday Lights Festival, “Wonder of Journey”. Northwest Parking Lot (Rt 33 Entrance), Freehold Raceway Mall, Freehold 4:30pm - 10pm

For more information, visit freeholdracewaymall.com

Kringle Cove Holiday Festivus

Celebrate the holiday season at Whitechapel’s Holiday Pop-Up, Kringle Cove. 15 2nd Ave, Long Branch 5pm

For more information, visit whitechapelprojects.com

SATURDAY, JANUARY 11

The Mountain Jam Band

Head to the Wonder Bar for a celebration of the music of The Allman Brothers Band. Wonder Bar 1213 Ocean Ave N, Asbury Park 7pm - 11pm

For more information, visit wonderbarasburypark.com

THURSDAY, JANUARY 16

Monmouth Park Corporate Center Pop Up

Support local vendors every third Thursday of every month, in a vibrant space of treats, clothing, jewelry, candles, and more.

185 NJ-36 Building D, West Long Branch 11am - 4pm

For more information, ymcanj.org/mlk

EVENTS CALENDAR January

THURSDAY, JANUARY 16 - SUNDAY, JANUARY 19

Light of Day Winterfest 25th Anniversary

Celebrate the power of music to raise money and awareness to fight Parkinson’s Disease, ALS and PSP. Various venues, Red Bank, Asbury Park

For more information, visit lightofday.org

FRIDAY, JANUARY 17

YMCA’s 36th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Breakfast

Celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with the YMCA of Greater Monmouth County’s annual commemorative breakfast.  Ocean Place Resort & Spa 1 Ocean Blvd, Long Branch 7:30am - 9:30am

For more information, ymcanj.org/mlk

SATURDAY, JANUARY 18

Candice Guardino’s Italian Bred Head over to Two River Theater for this must-see comedy special, starring Candice Guardino.

Two River Theater 21 Bridge Ave, Red Bank Showings: 2pm, 8pm

For more information, visit tworivertheater.org

2025 LADACIN Plunge

Make a splash at the LADACIN Plunge and have post-plunge fun at Leggett’s Sand Bar and Restaurant.

Leggett’s Sand Bar 217 1st Ave, Manasquan 10:30am - 3pm

For more information, visit ladacin.org

FRIDAY, JANUARY 24

The Tempest

Watch Two River Theater’s Little Shakespeare production of The Tempest.

Two River Theater 21 Bridge Ave, Red Bank

For more information, visit tworivertheater.org

973-751-1230

info@naninasinthepark.com www.naninasinthepark.com

info@parkchateau.com www.parkchateau.com

973-377-7100

info@theparksavoy.com www.theparksavoy.com

To the bride and groom… Community Magazine’s Guide to Weddings and Special Events

BY EMMA SYLVIA

Getting engaged is the fun part. Seeing the ring, telling friends and family and fantasizing about the wedding of your dreams and the life you and your spouse will build together is all a part of the fuzzy afterglow of a perfect engagement. You are on cloud nine, and that’s where you should be!

But then there is the realization that in order to

have the wedding of your dreams, you need to PLAN the wedding of your dreams. Yikes!

And it’s not just weddings — for any special event to be memorable and run smoothly, you need to have the right pieces in place. That’s why we created this list of resources and recommendations in order for you to make sure the visions you have in your head for your special day turn out to be the reality as well.

Charlie's of Lincroft — The Great Room

The Venue…

When choosing a venue for a wedding or special event, obviously the options are going to seem endless — because they are! And there are many spaces that offer a fabulous experience, whether you are looking for upscale fanciness or rustic charm.

But if we had to go with just one spot, we think that Charlie’s of Lincroft is the perfect all-around venue to make your wedding day a memorable one. Charlie’s is renowned for their award-winning menu, exquisite decor, and mouth-watering cuisine. Charlie’s of Lincroft offers fine contemporary American fare in a casual, but elegant setting.

Charlie’s offers two spectacular settings to choose from for your perfect wedding:

• The Great Room — With its exquisite interior design, The Great Room can accommodate up to 75 guests. The centerpiece of the space is a gorgeous, handcrafted stone fireplace and wood-beamed Cathedral ceiling that delivers an unmatched charm.

• The Wine Room — The Wine Room is set beneath

the building, a spectacular old-world wine cellar with an arched stone ceiling and rustic, hand-forced metal chandelier, all surrounded by the world’s finest wines. The Wine Room is an intimate setting that can serve up to 40 guests.

Charlie’s of Lincroft is also a fabulous choice for bridal showers, baby showers, holiday parties, rehearsal dinners, anniversaries, engagement dinners and more.

To schedule a visit or for more information on hosting your wedding or special event, contact the Events Department of Charlie’s at 732-276-1214

The Drinks…

Tipsy Saddle is the perfect accent to your already perfect day. A Monmouth County-based mobile bartending service, Tipsy Saddle elevates your wedding (or other special event) with their trailer, portable bars, or utilizing your athome bar. Sam Marchetti of Tipsy Saddle supplies all mixers and materials and works with clients to craft their perfect cocktail menu.

Charlie's of Lincroft — The Wine Room

WEDDINGS AND SPECIAL EVENTS GUIDE

“It’s the overall experience, not just for the wedding party, but for the guests as well,” Marchetti says.

Using a flipped horse trailer converted to a bar, Marchetti ensures a vibrant and cool aesthetic that can match any wedding’s color scheme. Serving indoor and outdoor weddings, Tipsy Saddle travels all over New Jersey. Tipsy Saddle also offers easily customizable packages:

• The Derby - Beer, Wine, Champagne Service Flat Rate + $3 per person

• The Stallion - Beer, Wine, Champagne Service, Cocktail Service, and 1 Signature Cocktail

Flat rate + $5 per person

• The Stud - Beer, Wine, Champagne Service, Cocktail Service, and 2 Signature Cocktails Flat rate + $5 per person

• The Trifecta - Beer, Wine, Champagne Service, Cocktail Service, and 3 Signature Cocktail Flat rate + $8 per person

Find out more at TipsySaddle.com

The Flowers …

Pantano Outdoor Supply, a retail garden center in Holmdel, provides perfect tips about floral arrangements for your upcoming wedding. We sat down with Floral Design Manager, Travis Baez, to fill you in on all you need to know.

CM: What type of floral arrangements are trending this season?

TB: We are seeing lots of airy, organic, asymmetrical types of floral arrangements trending still. Outside of bridal party work, when it comes to tables, especially with the long, farm table-like setting, many brides lean away from a traditional larger arrangement and prefer multiple bud vases with single or small groupings of stems, mixed in with smaller arrangements.

CM: What are the main differences of arrangements between seasons?

TB: We try our best to buy local products, and we are very fortunate to have many wonderful local growers. So, the largest difference is going to be the materials available in each season.  When it comes to fall, you will see lots of the natural muted tones, dried flowers, or foliage of the season, whereas in winter we incorporate more winter greens and stems.  Into spring is when we see a lot more color, as tulips or hellebores begin to bloom. Spring is a great opportunity to add seasonal branches, especially items such

Pantano Home and Garden

as cherry blossoms or other locally budding stems. This is a great way to add height to a room while still keeping that airy look. Summer is prime time for our native wildflowers, which is perfect for the trending wild "from your garden to table" look that is desired.  We also can get more into brighter colors and tropical florals, which work perfectly for summer shore weddings.

CM: What’s your personal favorite floral arrangement?

TB: While I truly love creating one-of-a-kind bouquets for a bride's special day, my favorite work is outside of the bridal party. Large floral installation is my true passion. Whether it is creating a large installation for an altar, where vows are going to be exchanged, or setting the tone with a large arch as guests enter the venue's entrance, or a stunning, show stopping ceiling installed over the dance floor, is where we can truly create the romantic atmosphere.

CM: Do you have any advice for soon-to-be newlyweds about their floral arrangements?

TB: Make an inspiration board – Pinterest is great, as you can share it with your wedding party, vendors, and anyone else invested in creating your special day. Don't just source pictures from your exact venue, as a lot of importation can come from everywhere. And add all the details – your wedding dress style, color palette, florals, linens, invitation, etc. All of this will help your florist create the overall vision you're striving for. Also — remember that a florist's support doesn't just involve flowers. Many florists will assist in creating your overall vision, which includes candles, linens, silverware, and

props. Our goal is to create your vision. Trust your florist with that. When it comes to wedding planning, there is a lot that goes on, so trust us with the details!

WEDDINGS AND SPECIAL EVENTS

CM: Anything else the bride and groom should know?

TB: With 30 years of experience, my favorite part of this work doesn't just start or end at the wedding. Many of the brides I have worked with for their engagement parties, showers, and continued with baby showers through 1st birthdays. It's the best feeling to be entrusted in creating an atmosphere for special occasions throughout their growing lives.

The Caterers …

Opting to have the food brought into your event space? Monmouth County has some of the best of the best when it comes to caterers. For your wedding, consider the following:

Falco’s — For more than 25 years, Falco’s Catering has provided catering for weddings across Monmouth and Ocean Counties. They’ve worked with some of the most popular venues for weddings, including The Renaissance, The Asbury Hotel, The Stone Pony, Bayonet Farm, and many more.

Head to FalcosCatering.com for more information.

La Dolce Vita — Celebrate your wedding with authentic Italian cuisine, catered by La Dolce Vita in Belmar. For more than a quarter century, La Dolce Vita has provided tailored menus for your one-of-a-kind wedding.

Contact La Dolce Vita at 732-749-3177

The Memories …

You are going to want to remember all the fun and silly moments from your big day. What better way to do just that than to have a photo booth onsite?

Pop Shop Photobooth — Pop Shop Photobooth both enhances your wedding experience and gives you the coolest, best way to remember your wedding night. Their retro cameras bring an old-school charm to your special night. Pop Shop Photobooth also comes with:

• On-site printing

• Premium and custom backdrops

• Digital sharing options

• Retro props

• Customizable Templates

• Guestbooks

• Fantastic customer service and attendants

Call Pop Shop Photobooth at 732-301-4339 or visit PopShopPhotoBooth.com for more information.

NJ Wedding Pros — Based in Fair Haven, NJ Wedding Pros is New Jersey’s one-stop wedding and event center. They offer streamlined, all-inclusive offerings, including floral arrangements, day-of coordination, photography, videography, entertainment and more!

NJ Wedding Pros was awarded the 2023 Winner in The Knot Best of Weddings, representing the highest-rated wedding professionals as reviewed by real couples on The Knot. Get a quote at njweddingpros.com

Pantano Home and Garden

Community Magazine Venue Recommendations

IPLAY AMERICA

104 Schanck Rd, Freehold, NJ (732) 577-8200

www.theeventcenteratipa.com

The Event Center at iPlay America is the most versatile convention destination in the Northeast. Conveniently located just minutes from most major highways in Central New Jersey, and with over 45,000 square feet of premium event space, every meeting and event will exceed your expectations.

618

618 Park Ave, Freehold Borough, NJ (732) 577-0001

www.618nj.com

THE BANQUET ROOM — A stunning, unique rustic space for weddings, 618 easily transforms into the perfect setting for your special day. All you have to do is say “I do.” Seating up to 170 guests, this large room is ideal for weddings, showers, Sweet 16s, large rehearsal dinners, birthdays, bat/bar mitzvahs, corporate events, non-profit fundraisers, alumni events and so much more!

THE ALL SEASONS ROOM — This (private) space is comprised of large windows, brick walls, lots of greenery, beautiful large chandeliers and a gorgeous fireplace. This room gives off a romantic, yet modern vibe. Perfect for ceremonies, cocktail hours, showers, birthday & anniversary parties, corporate events and more.

MEXIMODO

5 Pearl Street, Metuchen, NJ (732) 395-7767

www.meximodo.com

THE ROSE ROOM — The Rose Room is ideal for hosting a variety of events, including private dinners, cocktail parties, and corporate events. It offers a unique and memorable setting that is sure to impress guests and create a sense of exclusivity and sophistication. With its mix of vintage charm and modern amenities, the Rose Room at Meximodo is a truly special event space. Seats up to 50

THE PATIO — The outdoor seating area is situated in a spacious plaza in the heart of Metuchen surrounded by classic brick walls. The overall effect is a modern and vibrant outdoor dining experience that transports guests to the lively streets of Mexico. Plus, you get a beautiful view of the Metuchen residents passing through the plaza. Seats up to 60

CATERERS IN PARK/PARK CHATEAU

For dream wedding in a park setting check out the following:

• NANINA'S IN THE PARK 540 Mill Street, Belleville, NJ • 973-751-1230 www.naninasinthepark.com

• PARK CHATEAU ESTATE & GARDENS 678 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick, NJ • 732-238-4200 www.parkchateau.com

• THE PARK SAVOY ESTATE 236 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park, NJ • 973-377-7100 www.theparksavoy.com

TRIUMPH RESTAURANT & BREWERY 1 Bridge Avenue, Red Bank, NJ (732) 852-7300 info@triumphbrew.com www.triumphbrewing.com

Triumph Brewing offers a unique venue for weddings and rehearsal dinners as well as for business meetings, presentations, and private parties.

MCLOONE'S RESTAURANTS

The Rum Runner 816 Ocean Avenue, Sea Bright, NJ • (732) 842-2894 www.mcloonesrumrunner.com

CJ McLoone's Pub & Grille 560 Shrewsbury Ave., Tinton Falls, NJ • (732) 268-7802 www.cjmcloones.com

THE RUM RUNNER offers a multitude of accommodations for events of any size. All event spaces have breathtaking views of the Shrewsbury River and Atlantic Ocean. Contact their banquet coordinator today to schedule a walk through! For more information please email rrbanquets@mcloones. com, call 732-383-8155, or visit mcloonesrumrunner.com.

CJ MCLOONE'S — To inquire about an event, please contact them by phone 732-268-7802 or email at cj_banquets_ fwd@mcloones.com, or visit cjmcloones.com.

CHARLIE'S OF LINCROFT

700 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, NJ 732-812-4500 www.charliesoflincroft.com

Make your private event a memorable one at Charlie’s of Lincroft, with two spectacular settings to choose from.

THE GREAT ROOM — With its exquisite interior design, The Great Room can accommodate up to 75 guests. The centerpiece of the space is it’s hand-crafted stone fireplace & wood-beamed cathedral ceiling, a perfect environment for you to host an intimate wedding, bridal or baby shower, or any other special event.

THE WINE ROOM — Set beneath the building they have created a spectacular old world wine cellar with a stone arched ceiling and rustic hand-forged metal chandeliers. All of this is surrounded by the world’s finest wines. The Wine Room is a unique and intimate setting that can serve up to 40 guests.

Fairer Skies Ahead

Fair Haven Councilwoman Michal DiMiceli looks forward to big things in 2025

BY EMMA SYLVIA

One of the best ways to get involved with your community is through local politics. Fair Haven Councilwoman Michal DiMiceli offered insight about her role on the council after being sworn in on January 2nd, 2024, as well as how to get involved with local politics and what residents and visitors to Fair Haven can look forward to in 2025.

Q: What made you decide to run for Fair Haven Borough Council, and what was running like?

A: About four years ago, I decided I wanted to get involved locally in Fair Haven. I got involved with the Green Team, and one of the women on the Green Team was in office, and she suggested I get in touch with the Fair Haven Democrats, and I got involved that way. Erin Howard, who ran for Senate, asked me, “Would you consider running my campaign?” I thought it was a crazy question, but I thought about it, and then I ran her campaign for three months. It was a whirlwind — I was thrown headfirst into politics after never having run a campaign before. From there, I got connected with Congressman Pallone’s campaign, so I was a field organizer for that. I loved that experience, and through both, I met so many amazing people. I met so many women running for office that I was so impressed by and inspired by, and I got the bug.

ence also made me uniquely qualified to help out in Fair Haven. I understood the political side and the management of a municipality. I also have some major flooding that’s happening, and a development was built behind me where a lot of things went wrong. Dealing with that, I felt like things needed to get changed. I didn’t want anyone else to be in the position my family and I were in.

Running for office was interesting. It was my third campaign that I was in three years in a row, but this time it was for myself. I had knocked on so many doors in two years [campaigning for others], I thought that I wanted to knock on some doors for myself. Fair Haven is a very friendly place, so a lot of people actually open their doors. I had a lot of really great conversations and became aware of some of the issues I wasn’t aware of in town, and I got to know a lot more of the residents.

My mom passed away during the campaign. It was hard, but the campaign gave me something to focus on. It was therapeutic.

Q: What does your day-to-day look like?

Through volunteering with the Green Team, I saw firsthand things that I thought could be improved. My background in business management and analysis, and event planning, would be an asset to Fair Haven. I work for Mayor Pallone in Long Branch in city administration and I felt like this experi-

A: I work for the city of Long Branch as the Community Outreach Manager. It’s a unique role. Long Branch is very fortunate to have a great administration and a supportive mayor and council. One of my roles is as a special projects manager. One of the big projects is the Senior Center. We just opened the new center up in August and doubled the size of it. There’s a computer room, a floor-to-ceiling library, a lobby with a fireplace, multiple activity rooms, multiple

classrooms — it’s been really great to be here for this opening and bring more programming to the seniors. We’ve had about 350-400 new members; it’s expanded quickly.

I launched the Disability Resource Fair. We also recently launched Uptown Broadway Fest. It has an amazing mix of cultural businesses and restaurants, so we wanted to highlight that area. We work with the Arts and Cultural Center for a lot of locally driven events. Day-to-day, my days can be all over the place. Right now, I’m working on the newsletter that captures everything we’ve done in the past year. I’ve relaunched the Drug Alliance Program. I also get to go to all the events, so my days are a lot of planning and laying out for those.

Q: Tell us a bit about your background and how you use it in your role.

A: I started my career in sports marketing. A lot of it was customer service and event planning. I did fashion trade shows, which was a lot of planning and networking. From there, I went to The Journal, and that was great because I loved working with the local businesses. In Fair Haven, I’m the Business District Liaison for council; I’ve definitely used a lot of my background for my roles.

Every council member is a liaison to various departments and committees. I happen to be the liaison for the business committee. We have a unique business district in Fair Haven, because it’s small geographically but has over one hundred businesses within it. I want to foster services residents would want and market the businesses that are here. I’d like to make the districts of Fair Haven cohesive.

The other committee I’m on is the Grants Committee. Fair Haven is a small town, so we need some money, especially with maintenance. I’m also on the Communications Committee. We’re always looking for better ways to reach our residents. We want to promote our businesses and events we have in town.

Q: How does the job compare now as opposed to a year ago?

A: A lot of things happened in the last year, a lot of big projects I’m proud to be a part of. We’re building a new community center, and before I was even on the council, I helped to bring in $1,200,000 in federal funding. We’re building a new police department and new DPW. A lot of big projects. We acquired a property called 21 Fair Haven Road. It was acquired before I got on, but now we have to decide what we’re going to do with this property on the river. It’s been busy but interesting.

Q: What are your priorities as a councilwoman? What are you proudest of achieving?

A: I would like to have a coordinated plan for all of our natural resources and our water. I think that we need to understand how everything is connected – storm water management and maintenance of our natural areas. One of the projects that’s going through is a living shoreline. It’s been in the works for a while. They’re meant to more naturally preserve our shores and filter our chemicals from our water. We are also moving forward with repairing our

bulkhead. I view everything through an environmental but fiscally responsible lens. I’m also proud of hiring a new borough administrator, Chris York. He’s great. We’ve also hired new police, which has been great.

Q: What has been the most memorable part of being a Councilwoman?

A: I think realizing the weight of representing the people of Fair Haven and collaborating with the other council members. Hearing from the residents on the topics that are important and getting to connect with new residents that I didn’t get to meet during the campaign. I’ve connected with a lot of new residents. Also, connecting with the business district and representing the borough. Every so often, it hits me. “I can do something really good for my neighbors.” Getting to make a difference is the number one thing.

Q: What goals are you looking forward to completing in 2025?

A: We are automating a lot of processes. I think that will be a great step forward, especially with permits and zoning. I want to facilitate making it easier for businesses to come into town. I want a focus on the business district and to also have a true environmental plan that will connect with surrounding towns, because we’re not in a bubble. Things happening to our town aren’t just happening to our town; they’re also happening to Little Silver, Rumson and Red Bank.

Q: Any advice for Monmouth County Residents who want to get involved in their local politics?

A: I would say, if you can, pay attention to the council meetings. If you can’t make it, we have them virtual, and they’re also taped. You can read the minutes or watch them after. They can reach out to me if they’re interested. If you’re not sure, and you do have an area that you’re passionate about, try to connect that way. We’re looking for volunteers. If you’re a history buff and love history, then join the history association.

Running for office and being in office is a lot — but it’s also really fulfilling and really rewarding.

Breakfast + Lunch = Happiness 5 Spots for the Tastiest Brunches in Monmouth County

BY RYAN LOUGHLIN

R Bar

Those who love breakfast but also love sleeping in on the weekends are often stuck in a dilemma, as by the time you get around to rolling out of bed, breakfast time is a thing of the past, and most people in your home will likely have lunch on the brain. This is where the ever-popular hybrid meal of brunch comes to the rescue every time! A perfect solution for late sleepers (or simply those indecisive folks who can’t choose between breakfast and lunch), brunch offers the best of both worlds, solving one of Sunday morning’s trickiest conundrums. Here are some of the best spots to brunch in Monmouth County:

R Bar, Asbury Park

R Bar sets itself apart within Asbury’s much-celebrated restaurant scene by NOT being located on either Cookman or Ocean Avenues, instead, this New Orleans-themed spot takes up residence on Main Street, away from the trendiest spots in town. But R Bar is worth walking a few blocks for, as the gorgeously designed space is a visual pleaser, and the Sunday brunch is one of the most unique in town.

The drink menu is as fun as it gets (yes, another of brunch’s big advantages is that it’s somehow socially acceptable to drink your way through it) and standouts like the Erin Rose’s Frozen Irish Coffee — a delicious tip of the cap to the much-loved version from the Erin Rose bar in New Orleans — provide a fine start to the meal. Apps like the Crab Beignets and Broiled Oysters continue the Big Easy theme, but our pick is the Cacio e Pepe Deviled Eggs, which come topped with a blizzard of parmesan and a side of bread and oil for mixing and dipping when you are done. Standout entrees include the fabulous Blackened Shrimp & Grits, Bananas Foster French Toast or the ultimate indecisive eater’s go-to, Chicken and Waffles.

R Bar is located at 1114 Main St. in Asbury Park. ItsRBar.com

Charlie’s of Lincroft, Lincroft

Brunch is one of the few meals that can both take place early in the day and somehow be fancy as well. For those seeking the most elegant and classy of brunch experiences, Charlie’s of Lincroft is one of the best options in all of Monmouth County.

A full drink menu loaded with wines, martinis and signature cocktails sets the tone, with our current pick being the wonderfully-seasonal “Cranberry Sauced” — a mix of Tres Agaves tequila, Bogg’s Cranberry Liqueur, Cointreau, cranberry syrup and lime juice, with a rosemary sugar rim. Apps skate from straightforward options like sticky buns to

Charlie's of Lincroft

their Asian-themed Spicy Tuna Rainbow, a playful dance of spicy tuna, crispy sushi rice, hamachi, jalapeño, sriracha aioli, wasabi aioli, and ginger soy. For main courses, you can lean toward breakfast with their Crab Cake Benedict, Huevos Rancheros, Bacon, Chorizo and Baked Egg Pizza or the utterly divine Tiramisu Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks (get the latter for the table to share no matter what) or opt for savory lunchstyle dishes such as Chalie’s House Burger or the Grilled Chicken Naan.

Charlie’s of Lincroft is located at 700 Newman Springs Road in Lincroft. CharliesOfLincroft.com

Zoe’s Emilio’s Kitchen, Atlantic Highlands

At most spots in our area that specialize in brunch dishes, the menus lean heavily toward American-style cuisine. But the Mexican culinary influence is what makes a trip to Zoe’s Emilio’s Kitchen in Atlantic Highlands such a fun experience for a weekend breakfast or brunch.

There is no better way to kick off any Mexican meal than with a cinnamon-y

glass of horchata, and the one at Zoe’s is all but perfect. From there, exploring the menu is a delight, but a difficult one, as each dish sounds more mouthwatering than the next and picking just one will always be a difficult task. The less adventurous can play it safe with stand-

bys from the griddle, but even there the creativity shines, as options like the Blue Loaded Pancakes with blueberry batter, homemade blueberry jam and maple syrup; and the Flamed Banana French Toast with flamed bananas, vanilla, cinnamon and a drizzle of caramel can’t help but entice. The Mexican options for both breakfast and lunch are extensive too and include Chilaquiles, Huevos Rancheros, Tortas, Tacos, a Calamari Burrito and a lovely Beef Birria soup, but perhaps our favorite dish is the Costra de Queso omelet, which comes topped with queso sauce, salsa verde, and the ultimate secret weapon — a crispy blanket of cheese wrapped around the entire omelet. Picture the delightful burnt-orange crust on a southern baked mac and cheese bear-hugging an omelet like a taco shell. That’s what this is. Order it.

Zoe’s Emilio’s Kitchen is located at 77 Center Ave. in Atlantic Highlands. ZoesEmiliosKitchen.com.

Tatum’s Table, Lincroft

Twenty-year old Tatum Manake launched Tatum’s Table earlier this year and the spot has quickly become a favorite for those in the area seeking the full package when it comes to brunch options. “I kept going out for breakfast or lunch in the area, and there was nothing that suited what I wanted,” said Menake of what inspired her to open Tatum’s Ta-

Zoe's Emilio's Kitchen

Tatum's Table

ble. “Either the food would be good, but the coffee would be lacking, or vice versa. Nothing had the whole package.”

Tatum’s Table offers guests the whole package in the form of a massive (and frankly unmatched) menu of coffees, lattes and tea-based beverages, as well as a full lineup of skillets, omelets, breakfast sandwiches and tasty and one-of-a-kind dishes such as Tatum’s A.M. Party Mix — a mashup of quinoa with sautéed garden vegetables, fresh herbs, sautéed spinach, lemon juice, garlic oil and two eggs any style, which can be boosted by the addition of shrimp, chicken or NY Strip steak. Those looking for brunchtime decadence will enjoy the griddle options, which feature such over-the-top choices as Fried Oreo Pancakes and Crème Brulee French Toast among others. Lunch comes in hot with fab apps like the Homemade Mac and Cheese Flight as well as a massive menu of main courses, which can be anything from paninis and burgers to bowls and salads. For a perfect brunch item- try the Rise & Shine Breakfast Burger — a

prime beef patty served with a sunnyside-up egg, sausage patty, hash brown, pepper jack cheese and their own spicy maple aioli served on an English muffin. Mmmmm …

Tatum’s Table is located at 650 Newman Springs Road in Lincroft. Go to TatumsTable.com.

Turning Point, various locations:

What started as one simple 12-table restaurant in Little Silver has transformed into a small army of eateries, and a staple meal of any great weekend at the Jersey Shore. That’s right, we are talking about Turning Point.

When the Turning Point launched in 1998, their mission was simple: “To serve the best breakfast, lunch and brunch we know how from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.” And that motto holds strong today, as this hotspot continues to crank out some of the best dishes in those categories, without fail.

We love to start things off with a New

Orleans Cold Brew, a fab blend of roasted chicory with an oversized coffee ice cube. From there it’s on to a pile of Warm Cinnamon Rolls for the table (something that has yet to get anything short of a roar of approval from everyone).

Entrees depend on mood. You can’t go wrong with the Key West Shrimp Omelet, with its all-star lineup of shrimp, avocado, bacon, tomato, cilantro and jack cheese; the Roadhouse Bacon Stack — a triple-stacked grilled cheese sandwich with thick-cut bacon, caramelized onions, tomato, and baby spinach topped with a smokehouse aioli on griddled sourdough bread; or one of the current seasonal specials like the Cannoli Pancakes — a trio of chocolate chip pancakes topped with cannoli cream, powdered sugar and a mini cannoli.

Turning Point has Monmouth County locations in Ocean Township, Holmdel, Little Silver, Manalapan, and Sea Girt. Go to TurningPointRestaurants.com

Turning Point

Law Offices

PAONE, ZALESKI & MURPHY

DIVORCE & FAMILY LAW

Our Partners are Certified Matrimonial Attorneys

Teacher Feature

Name: Jean Scully

Title:

6th Grade Math Teacher

Place of Employment: Shrewsbury Borough School

Town of Residency: West Long Branch

120 Maple Avenue • Red Bank

732.750.9797

visit us at www.paonezaleski.com

John P. Paone, Jr Diplomate of the American College of Family Trial Lawyers

Q: What do you love about teaching, and what keeps you coming back each day?

A: I just love teaching math. The possibility of helping a child to realize that math is not scary or too difficult is almost like an addiction for me. Helping students realize that they can develop problem solving skills that may be applicable beyond the classroom is also part of what keeps me returning! I would be remiss if I didn’t mention my co-workers. Sharing 10 minutes for lunch, waiting for the copier or even sharing a funny look during an assembly helps us all make it through the day. Co-workers are the people who help keep you sane!

Q: What is the most challenging thing about working with kids?

A: It is difficult to encourage and subtly push children to give us their best effort. It’s a demanding job to help them understand that they will have to put in a great deal of effort regardless of the difficulty and obstacles at times. It is challenging to convince adults to continue to model positive behaviors, remind families that one of the most useful skills people can acquire is the art of respect, and assist students in living in the present rather than on social media. Constantly comparing your real life to someone else’s fictitious on-line profile is just a set up for negative thinking. Life is not a video game with endless restarts. Accountability, sweating it out in the arena and rising from the fall is how character is formed. Teaching children that decisions and choices have both benefits and repercussions is essential to preparing them for the future.

Q: What was your school experience like as a kid? Did you enjoy school?

A: As a child, I enjoyed school because it was what I did, where my friends were and because my family prioritized education. My sisters and I grew up knowing that education was our ticket to success — one way or another. I enjoyed academics, athletics and music along with as many extracurricular activities as you could imagine. I liked all subjects and also kept the projects from classes like home economics (an apron and a pillow) and wood shop (a corner shelf)!

Q: If you could add one new subject that every kid would have to take in school, what would it be and why?

A: I would add some courses that illuminate the power of perseverance and the use of humor. Funny things are everywhere — from the amount of product a junior high boy uses in his hair to staff meetings — you just have to find them.

Q: What is the most important thing that your students have taught you?

A: All students want to be seen and heard. All people want to feel respected. Working with children — and humans of any age — has taught me to expect the unexpected and to acknowledge small feats. Additionally, being able to use plan B, plan C, velcro and duct tape to accomplish the job sure is helpful.

FIRST RESPONDERS Q & A

Name: Craig Weber

Title: Chief of Police

Place of Employment:  Middletown

Town of Residency: Middletown

Q: What initially made you want to be a first responder?

A: As a child I had family members that were first responders, and it was always something that interested me.

Q: What do you find to be most rewarding about this kind of work?

A: Serving the community to improve public safety and the overall quality of life while making a positive difference in the world every day.

Q: What is the hardest aspect of the job?

A: Experiencing traumatic incidents and seeing the devastating effects and consequences that violent crime, drug overdoses, homicides, child abuse, mental health crises and other tragedies have on the victims and their families.

Q: Do any aspects of the job ever scare you?

A: There is always a potential for danger, and that is why it is so important for first responders to train regularly in order to prepare them to safely handle emergency situations. I can remember being deployed as a first responder to ground zero at the World Trade Center site in Manhattan on September 11, 2001. It was a very harrowing experience; I don’t think anyone was fully prepared for the number of mass casualties or the level of destruction we encountered.

Q: What was your most memorable experience on the job so far?

A: Being nominated and selected to attend the F.B.I. National Academy in Quantico, Virginia for 10 weeks in 2007.  Less than 1 % of law enforcement officers nationwide are ever afforded the unique opportunity to attend this prestigious executive development training program and it was truly the experience of a lifetime.

BIZBEAT

BY RYAN LOUGHLIN

New Barnes and Noble location at Monmouth Mall opens

The Monmouth Mall has been mostly a construction site for the better part of the last year, with much of it being demolished outright, but one exciting new development is the relocation of the Barnes and Noble bookstore. Now located in a brand-new space slightly eastbound of their previous spot, the new store is open and bright and ready to serve bookworms everywhere! The new store is located at 180 Rt. 35 in Eatontown. BarnesAndNoble.com

Benchmark Breads opens first retail location in Little Silver

Benchmark Breads has been a popular staple at farmers markets throughout Monmouth County since the pandemic, but at the end of 2024 they finally opened their first retail location in Little Silver. The shop sells a variety of some of the most delicious sourdough breads you will find anywhere. Benchmark Breads is located at 141 Markham Pl. in Little Silver. BenchmarkBreads.com

Rolling the dice at Barrio Costero’s Taco Tuesday

Anyone who has enjoyed a meal at Barrio Costero can attest to it being one of the best Mexican restaurants in the area. Though unquestionably delicious, the spot can be a bit pricey at times. That’s why their new Taco Tuesday deal is one of the best we have come across anywhere. Every Tuesday, patrons can now enjoy 3 tacos and a house margarita for $15. Not sweet enough of a deal for you? At the end of the meal, one person from your group gets the chance to roll the Barrio dice. Roll a 6 and your meal is on the house! Barrio Costero is located at 610 Bangs Ave. in Asbury Park. BarrioCostero.com

Prioritizing HEART HEALTH in the New Year

BY MAIA FRANCO

The New Year is the perfect time to set new goals and get healthy! While we tend to focus on health for aesthetic reasons in the new year, we need to begin focusing on one of the most important organs in the body: the heart. Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) is the leading cause of death in both men and women in New Jersey. In 2020, more than 19,700 residents of the state died of complications caused by CHD. Make 2025 the year you prioritize heart health and are aware of the signs and symptoms of a heart disease.

Signs of a heart attack:

• Chest pain

• Pain in other areas, such as the jaw, arm, shoulder, and neck

• Rapid or irregular heartbeat

• Shortness of breath

• Heavily sweating (without exercising or being in a hot environment)

• Nausea and vomiting

• Overwhelming anxiety

Atrial Fibrillation and Bradycardia:

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a heart condition that causes the upper chambers of the heart to beat irregularly and often rapidly. AFib can be triggered by drinking too much alcohol, smoking, being overweight, drinking too much caffeine, and taking illegal drugs. Someone may be at a risk for AFib if they are over 50, have heart failure, have high blood pressure, are obese, or have sleep apnea.

Bradycardia, also known as bradyarrhythmia, is a condition where the heart beats slower than 60 beats per minute (BPM) while at rest. A normal resting heart rate for adults is be-

tween 60 and 100 BPM. Bradycardia can be caused by a number of things, including Cardiovascular conditioning, electrolyte imbalance, obstructive sleep apnea, inflammatory autoimmune diseases, and certain medications. Bradycardia can be a serious problem if the heart rate is too slow for the heart to pump enough oxygen-rich blood to the body. This can cause someone to feel dizzy, very tired or weak, and short of breath.

Advances in treatment:

An implanted defibrillator is a battery-powered device inserted below the skin and has a vein that connects it to the heart for monitoring. The implanted defibrillator has the ability to change a person’s heartbeat when an abnormal rhythm is detected and can even send a shock, if needed. The implantable device treats conditions such as bradycardia atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, atrial tachycardia, ventricular tachycardia, and ventricular fibrillation. Physicians may recommend an implanted defibrillator to patients who have previously experienced a heart attack, or may be a risk for cardiac arrest. A Middletown resident, Jose, chose the implanted defibrillator because it gave him peace of mind. “When I experienced AFib, I was constantly worried about the next time I would go into it. With the implanted defibrillator, my heart rate is monitored constantly, my doctor has all of the data, and I know the AFib can be corrected if it happens again.”

If you feel you may be at risk for any of the following conditions, consult a cardiologist and discuss your options as soon as possible. If you experience any of the symptoms described in the conditions listed above, you may be having an emergency. Seek assistance from 911 immediately.

Dinner Show

Our picks for some fun nights out at local bars and restaurants this month

MONDAYS (JAN. 6, 13, 20 AND 27) • 7-10 p.m.

Pat Guadagno

Jamian’s Food and Drink, 79 Monmouth St. Red Bank JamiansFood.com

MONDAY, WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY, FRIDAY AND

SATURDAY, ALL MONTH LONG • 6 p.m.

Live music

Bar Anticipation, 703 16th Ave., Lake Como Bar-A.com

THURSDAYS, FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS, all month long Live music

The Cabin, 984 NJ-33, Freehold Thursday, 6-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 8:30-11:30 p.m. TheCabinNJ.com

FRIDAYS (JAN. 3, 10, 17, 24 AND 31) • 6 p.m. Live music

Rooney’s Oceanfront Restaurant, 100 Ocean Ave N., Long Branch RooneysOcean.com

FRIDAY, JAN 10 • 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Vinyl Traction

Charley’s Ocean Grill, 29 Avenel Blvd. Long Branch CharleysOceanGrill.com

THURSDAY, JAN. 16 • 7 p.m. (Doors at 5:30 p.m.)

The Jersey Shore Medium Linda Shields

Tim McLoone’s Supper Club, 1200 Ocean Ave., Asbury Park TimMcloonesSupperClub.com

FRIDAY, JAN. 24 • 5-8 p.m.

Quincy Mumford

Deal Lake Bar + Co,600 Main St. Loch Arbour DealLakeBarCo.com

SATURDAY, JAN. 25 • 9 p.m.

Steve Reilly Band

St. Stephen’s Green Publick House, RT 71, Spring Lake SSGPub.com

FRIDAY, JAN. 31 • 8 p.m.- midnight Nine Deez Night

The Proving Ground, 56 Shrewsbury Ave, Highlands TheProvingGround.com

Pick up a copy of our

Zone 1 (Colts Neck/Holmdel Area):

Atlantic Eye (Holmdel)

Dearborn Market

Pantano Home & Garden

Giannis (Colts Neck)

Rustic Roots

Zone 2 (Rumson/Fair Haven Area):

Atlantic Eye

Shrewsbury Volkswagen

Shoprite

Foodtown (Red Bank)

Gianni’s (Red Bank)

Allaire Lounge and Liquor

Zone 3 (Jersey Shore Area):

Foodtown (Sea Girt)

Shoprite (Belmar)

Shoprite (Neptune)

Asbury Park City Hall

Asbury Park Book Cooperative

Purpose Yoga

Zone 4 (Ocean Township Area):

Blue Swan

Sunset Diner

Pop’s Bagels

Gianni’s (Ocean)

All Seasons Diner

Zone 5 (Middletown Area):

Shoprite (Middletown)

Booskerdoo (Middletown)

Foodtown (Atlantic Highlands)

Atlantic Bagel Co (Atlantic Highlands)

Foodtown (Port Monmouth)

Brookdale’s Monmouth Museum

Zone 6 (Freehold Area):

Lomurro Law

618 Restaurant

Shoprite (Freehold)

Manhattan Bagel (Freehold)

NJ Leaf

A Spark of Light from the Darkness Local author details inspirational battle with cancer in new memoir

BY RYAN LOUGHLIN

Colts Neck resident Glen Dalakian is a leader in both his church and in his professional life as the Founder and CEO of CSAV Systems, a rising AV integration company, but perhaps his most inspiring work has come in the form of “Everything to Stand,” a new memoir he has written detailing his battle with cancer. We spoke with Dalakian recently to hear about his journey and life after diagnosis.

Community Magazine: Your book “Everything to Stand” focuses on your battle with an aggressive form of cancer. What made you want to share such a personal story with the world?

Glen Dalakian: There are things that I learned and blessings I received that people need to hear about. Hope can be hard to find when you’re hit with a devastating diagnosis, but there are reasons to be encouraged, even at the darkest hours.

CM: You have been involved in a variety of businesses, from dry cleaning to electronics. What made you start writing?

GD: I always enjoy telling a good story and have been asked again and again for tips on how I have been able to succeed in a variety of areas in my life. I was helped by people who mentored me directly and some through books they wrote. More than 10 years ago I started writing a busi-

ness column and sharing things I have learned in the hope that others might benefit. Over the years some of my most rewarding moments have been hearing from people about inspiration they may have received from my writing and so I continued.

CM: What is the most important advice you would give to someone who just received a similar cancer diagnosis?

GD: Pray, get and stay focused on healing and be diligent in finding a path that is most likely to lead you to remission. There is much more in the book I’ve been inspired to write.

CM: You obviously faced a myriad of treatments on your journey. Was writing this book a form of therapy in itself?

GD: Yes and No. I wrote this book after I had been given the great news of remission. But every cancer patient has much to contend with after remission and beyond. Writing helped me to count my blessings and to have a positive perspective on the days ahead. Since I completed the book, I continue to be very aware of the changes in my body and the potential for what lies ahead. Scans, extensive blood work and exams with my oncologist every 4-5 months continue and are a regular reminder of my past and present condition. I look forward to the days when they are no longer needed.

CM: What is next for you? Any more books on the horizon?

GD: I have written a booklet called “The Greatest Prescription” that will be published soon. It can be kept in a pocket and be a constant encouragement to anyone struggling with serious illness. I also am well into another book that focuses on God’s key role and the miracles I witnessed in the battle for my life. I continue to write my monthly column “Business Matters” and look forward to doing my best to share hope and encouragement with as many people as possible. I hope people will follow my progress and benefit from everything I share at www.AuthorGlenJD.com

Ditch the Mess!

Got Clutter built a business around the joy of keeping things tidy

BY EMMA SYLVIA

Judith Horowitz of

Got Clutter cannot believe how far her company has grown since its inception. Celebrating their 18th anniversary this upcoming May, Horowitz looks back on the early days and how the business began organically.

“It sorta fell in my lap,” she remembers. “I joined a woman’s networking event, and from there I got my first client — I just had to help someone with renovation. From there, it went from unpacking and reorganizing homes to architectural plans, space planning, closet design and more.”

Got Clutter itself is a professional home and office organizing service, offering fullhome organization for their clients. “We work from everywhere in New York — including Long Island and Staten Island — to New Jersey, Connecticut, and Florida. We do jobs where we declutter, unpack, organize, and maintain.”

Helping to re-organize roughly 40 to 45 homes a year, Horowitz and her company are able to complete 99% of homes in just one day. “We’re a full-service business. We cater to each person and their personal needs. We really listen to our clients and what they want. We’re always there to make them happy. If they don’t like something, we’ll change it,” Horowitz says.

With 2025 here and spring-cleaning nearing, Horowitz answers questions about Got Clutter, and provides tips on how to organize your home.

Q: How did the business start? Did you imagine it would grow so much?

A: Definitely not. It fell in my lap. It started with my husband being in the stock market, and after the market crashed, I thought that I should get a job. I was always organized. It’s a funny thing; I had a friend that would make fun of me with how organized and lined up my house was. One person asked me to organize their pantry, and then, it grew naturally. I never thought I would still be doing this 18 years later. It was trying to help with the family income — we were always busy with having five kids. But the company just slowly, naturally grew.

Q: What makes Got Clutter unique?

A: Got Clutter is me and my daughter. I have other employees who come when we have big jobs, but 90 percent of the time, it’s the two of us. Most of the time, the clients do want me to physically be there. My daughter is like my clone — she does everything exactly like I do. I might go to one job, and she goes to the other; we split up. I know there’s other organizers out there, but we do things the way we do them. We really do things our way, and we don’t try to copy anybody. I try to do things differently because each house is unique.

One thing I’ve learned over the years is how to deal with all different kinds of personalities. Decluttering itself, too, is almost like therapy. A lot of the time, the clutter is consuming these houses, and people don’t know what to do with it. For most people, something like this might be a luxury, but to some people, it’s not. It’s a necessity. It’s really helping with their daily lives.

Q: How was 2024 for Got Clutter? What are you looking forward to in 2025?

A: 2024 was a great year, thank goodness. We’ve been busy every year. We average around 40 to 45 moves a year. We already have bookings for January, February, and March. We had a few requests for more jobs out of New York, so in 2025, I’m looking forward to traveling to other states and more travel in general. We’ll actually be traveling to the Caribbean to do some organizing out there.

Got Clutter’s Top 10 Tips For Organizing Your Home

Whether your New Year’s Resolution is to declutter your life, or you want to get a jump start on your spring cleaning, Got Clutter has the perfect guide for you to get started…

• Keep what you use and love

• Don’t keep things just because you spent money on them — you’re not getting the money back

• Put things away right away

• If it’s damaged, get rid of it

• If you’re going to store it away forever,

you don’t need it

• Do a clean out every season

• Just because it’s on sale doesn’t mean that you need to buy it

• Just because it’s free, doesn’t mean that you need to take it

• Give everything a home so that you know where to put it back

• Ask yourself: If you were to move today, would you take those items with you?

For more information, visit @gotclutter on Instagram.

Playing it Safe

More than 3.5 million children ages 14 and younger suffer from a sports-related injury each year. It's important for parents, coaches, and young athletes to recognize the signs of injury early to prevent longterm damage. Here are some common types of injuries and what to look out for:

Acute Injuries

Acute injuries happen suddenly, often as a result of a fall, collision, or improper movement.

Sprains and Strains:

• Sprain: Injury to a ligament, such as an ankle sprain.

• Strain: Injury to a muscle or tendon, such as a hamstring strain.

• Signs to watch for: Pain, swelling, bruising, and limited range of motion Fractures:

• Common in contact sports, especially when bones are subjected to direct impact.

• Signs: Immediate pain, swelling, deformity, and inability to use the limb

Dislocations:

• Often occurs in the shoulder, elbow, or fingers.

• Signs: Visible deformity, intense pain, and limited movement

Concussions:

• A head injury caused by a blow or jolt to the head.

• Signs: Headache, dizziness, confusion, memory loss, nausea, sensitivity to light or noise, and changes in behavior.

Prevention Methods:

• Proper Technique: Learning proper techniques for throwing, jumping, running, and other sports movements can significantly reduce injury risk.

• Equipment: Wearing properly fitted and sport-specific equipment (shoes,

helmets, pads, etc.) can help prevent injuries, especially in contact sports.

• Hydration and Nutrition: Proper hydration and a balanced diet support muscle and bone health, reducing the likelihood of injuries.

Overuse Injuries

Overuse injuries are caused by repetitive stress on a part of the body without adequate rest. These are becoming more common as young athletes specialize in a single sport.

Little League Elbow and Little League Shoulder:

• Overuse injuries typically seen in young baseball players due to repetitive throwing motions.

• Signs: Pain on the inside of the elbow or shoulder, decreased range of motion, and tenderness.

Stress Fractures:

• Common in high-impact sports, particularly in sports like running, gymnastics, and basketball.

• Signs: Gradual onset of pain that worsens with activity, tenderness over the affected bone, and swelling.

Tendinitis:

• Inflammation of a tendon, such as the Achilles tendon in runners or the patellar tendon in athletes who jump frequently

• Signs: Pain, swelling, and stiffness in the tendon, which worsens with activity and improves with rest

Prevention and What to Look Out For:

• Proper Warm-up and Cool-down: Ensuring athletes warm up before and cool down after activities helps prevent muscle strains and ligament injuries.

• Rest and Recovery: Overuse injuries often stem from not giving the body enough time to rest. Avoiding exces -

Preventing Childhood Sports Injuries

BY MAIA FRANCO

sive training, cross-training in different sports, and ensuring regular rest days can reduce the risk of overuse injuries.

Signs of Overuse:

• Persistent pain that doesn’t improve with rest.

• Swelling or bruising that doesn’t go away.

• Decreased performance or reluctance to participate in the sport.

• Limping, stiffness, or discomfort in a joint or muscle.

Growth Plate Injuries

Children and adolescents have growth plates, areas where their bones are still growing. These are vulnerable to injury, especially during intense physical activity.

Signs to watch for:

• Pain near a joint or bone (especially in the wrists, knees, or elbows).

• Swelling and tenderness in a localized area.

When to Seek Medical Attention:

• Immediate, severe pain that doesn’t improve

• Signs of a concussion, such as confusion, nausea, and dizziness

• Swelling or bruising that doesn’t subside with rest

• Difficulty moving or using a limb

• Visible deformity

To keep young athletes safe and healthy, it’s essential to encourage safe play practices, monitor for signs of overuse, and ensure that they receive appropriate medical care when needed. Proper training, rest, and awareness of potential injuries are key to maintaining a child’s long-term health in sports.

BRONCO of Rumson

BRUNO of Little Silver

CAMERON of Rumson

CLIO of Rumson

CLOVER of Fair Haven

GUS of Little Silver

LUCY of Little Silver

TEDDY BEAR of Rumson

BUDDY of Tinton Falls

ZIGGY of Little Silver

Four-legged fun!

Barktastic places to hang out with your pets this month and beyond

Smokey’s Doggy Café, Keyport — OK this place is truly for the dogs! Smokey’s Doggy Café offers dogs a fabulous place to hang with their humans and features an all-natural treat bar, Puppaccinos, Pawgaritas, Barkuterie boards, dog ice cream as well as a play yard! Humans are welcome to BYO food and drinks or have the option to order delivery from local restaurants. Smokey’s Doggy Café is located at 30 West Front Street in Keyport. SmokeysDoggyCafe.com.

The Hungry Puppy, Farmingdale — The Hungry Puppy may be a pet supply store first and foremost, but they also offer lots of fun events for your et throughout the year. But one of our favorite things is their on-site free dog park, a great place to bring your dog to get those zoomies out in a fun and fenced environment. The park features two separate play areas as well as dog playground equipment for extra waggy tails! The Hungry Puppy is located at 1288 Highway 33 in Farmingdale. The HungryPuppy.com.

Convention Hall, Asbury Park — A great option for a chilly day, dogs are welcome inside the Grand Arcade at Convention Hall in Asbury Park, where you and your pup can peruse the shops, check out the Springsteen Archives pop-up shop and maybe even pick up a few treats at Paws Barkery & Boutique.

Cookman Avenue, Asbury Park — Winter is always a tough time for outings with your doggo, as much of the outdoor dining and fun warm weather activities are no longer available. But Asbury Park manages to be a particularly dog-friendly destination, with many of the stores on Cookman Avenue welcoming well-behaved four-legged friends. Go for a winter stroll through Kennedy Park and if you find yourself getting chilly, just head inside one of the dog-friendly shops, such as Rebel Supply Co., Foolish Ginger, or stop in and pick up a doggie cupcake at Confections of a Rockstar. Pets are even allowed inside Asbury Park Brewery and the Shoppes at the Arcade, which offers multiple fun stores for you and your canine companion to poke around in.

The Jersey Shore Premium Outlets, Tinton Falls — With the holiday shopping madness in the rear-view mirror, January is an excellent time to take in a more relaxing trip to the mall. But that usually means leaving your pets at home. But that’s not the case at the Jersey Shore Premium Outlets! Since the area is outdoors, dogs are welcome in all of the outdoor spaces, many of which are covered from rain. While the stores themselves may only allow service animals, it’s a great spot to go with the whole family. Let Mom run into one store while Dad and the kids hang with the hound. They even have a Starbucks onsite for extra good dogs to get their Pup Cups! PremiumOutlets.com

pet resort & hotel

Kick off the New Year with Positive Training for a Well-Behaved Dog

Your dog is more than just a pet—they’re a cherished member of your family. But sometimes, miscommunications and behavioral challenges can strain even the strongest bond. The solution? Professional dog training! It’s an investment in your dog’s happiness, your peace of mind, and your relationship together. Here’s why dog training is a game-changer for both you and your furry friend – and with the New Year upon us, a perfect time for a fresh start!

1. Enhanced Communication — Dogs thrive when they understand what’s expected of them, and training provides the tools for clear communication. By learning commands and responding to cues, your dog becomes more confident, and you’ll enjoy a stronger bond rooted in trust and understanding.

2. A Well-Behaved Companion — Imagine a dog that greets guests calmly, walks politely on a leash, and listens even in distracting environments. Proper training transforms good dogs into great companions, making everyday activities—from strolls in the park to family gatherings—more enjoyable for everyone.

3. Safety First — Training is about more than good manners; it’s about keeping your dog safe. Teaching commands like “stay,” “come,” and “leave it” can prevent accidents and keep your dog out of harm’s way, whether it’s avoiding traffic or steering clear of harmful substances.

4. Reduce Problem Behaviors — From excessive barking and chewing to leash pulling and aggression, training helps address and correct these behaviors. Certified trainers work with you to understand your dog’s unique needs and create tailored solutions that work in your home environment.

5. A Happy, Stimulated Dog — Dogs love to learn! Training engages their minds, satisfies their need for mental stimulation, and reduces boredom-related behaviors. An active, engaged dog is a happy dog, and a happy dog makes for a happy owner.

6. Socialization Skills — Well-trained dogs are more confident in social settings. Whether you’re at the dog park or hosting friends, training ensures your dog knows how to behave, interact, and stay calm around people and other pets.

7. Strengthened Bond — Dog training is a team effort, and it deepens your connection. Working together toward shared goals fosters mutual respect and enhances the relationship between you and your furry companion.

Investing in professional dog training isn’t just about teaching tricks—it’s about building a life full of joy, trust, and harmony with your pet. Whether you’re dealing with puppy basics or more complex behavioral issues, the benefits of training are undeniable.

Ready to experience the transformation? Let’s get started today and unlock the full potential of your four-legged friend. Your journey to a happier, better-behaved dog begins now!

To learn more, visit https://www.greenleafpetresort.com/ oakhurst/ or give us a call at (732) 272-0800.

A Group That’s Growing Oceanport’s Garden Club offers good times to green thumbs

BY BILL CLARK

Oceanport residents that have marveled at the arrangements of flowers around town can thank the dedicated members of the Oceanport Garden Club.

Diane Dineen has been part of the organization for the past seven years, and enjoys helping to create beautiful displays for the municipal hall, township schools and police departments.

Members pay dues to the club but donate their time, money and effort to beautifying spaces for students, township employees and residents. The Garden Club isn’t set up as a social outing, although most members make new connections and friendships through their participation.

The group hosts speakers and other presenters during their monthly meetings at the Old Wharf House on Main Street in Oceanport. Beekeepers and farmers have come and given demonstrations and lessons on their areas of expertise. Some are simply informative, like the discussion around bees and

their importance to the ecosystem, explaining how vital their presence is to the flowers. Others are more practical, such as the time the club learned how to create containers for planting around their house. One woman from Fair Haven came to give a detailed breakdown on the process of growing dahlias.

“She took us all through the dahlia process and how many beds she has in her backyard and everything,” Dineen said. “That was very interesting.”

Sometimes the members even take to the road. One trip brought the Garden Club down to the Manasquan Reservoir, where the group took a boat tour of the area and learned about the eagles that nest in the trees along the waterway.

Other environmental issues become topics for talks or lessons. A speaker came to discuss the recent display of the Northern Lights, describing what they are, where they can be seen and why the natural phenomena was visible so much further south

than usual. Another time the club hosted a person who identified certain birds that can be seen frolicking in the area.

Even members have shown off their expertise. One member is the former owner of a floral shop in Pennsylvania. From her years of experience, she is able to create and coach others on how to design the perfect arrangement of flowers for any occasion. Flower choices that are perfect for the winter holidays may not be best for Mother’s Day or Easter for example.

One highlight of the year for the group is creating small arrangements for the residents of the senior housing complex, Oceanport Gardens. Dineen said that about 100 residents look forward to the yearly drop off of small floral collections. The Garden Club will knock on doors, drop off the decorations and have short discussions with each person. For those that don’t answer, they just leave the arrangement outside as a welcome surprise when the person arrives back home.

“I’ve heard those people there say they just can’t wait for that to happen,” Dineen said.  “Frankly, one of my favorite activities is making those.”

Since the members essentially self-fund the work they do, they are certain to look for more thrifty ways of ensuring that the items they craft are able to be delivered to the same buildings year after year.

During the holiday season, Dineen said that greenery was an important facet of the aesthetics they chose. Members went into their own yards and selected parts of plants and trees they already had access to, so they were able to provide larger displays. They added berries and bows and wound up with arrangements they were proud to show off for December.

“It was also very cost effective too,” she said.

The club has been looking into ways to increase its budget as well. With the amount of bazaars and flea markets in the area, Dineen believes that the quality of the arrangements the club cre-

ates could create a potent revenue stream.

Dineen, a retired insurance agent, noted that the luncheons the women put on each month allow them to bond in other ways as well. Several members will host the entire club and just enjoy each other’s company. Recently, the club hosted a birthday party for one member who turned 103 years old. Oceanport Mayor Thomas J. Tvrdik attended and declared that day in honor of the woman.

Dineen is in charge of recruitment as well. When she meets new people in and around town, she mentions the club and its benefits. Even those from towns close by are eligible to join. There’s no restrictions on residency to just Oceanport.

While 26 members is a respectable number for any club, Dineen looks to reach out to others that may be interested. She would love to see an infusion of younger people learning to love the organization and the good they do for the community as much as current members do.

One area that the club passed on to the next generation is the Blue Star Memorial. For years the women of the Garden Club tended to the space but stepped aside to allow the local Boy Scout troop to ensure its upkeep throughout the year.

The club typically kicks off in September as they do not meet throughout the summer months. But once they do, they are encouraged to partake in contests and challenges. This past July and August, members were challenged to care for a small pot of begonias, while October saw a contest about creating a beautiful and novel container display.

For those that may be longtime caretakers of flowers or the novice green thumb, the monthly bulletin provides quick hints about the time of year or other relevant plantings.

Anyone interested in joining the Oceanport Garden Club can contact Diane Dineen at 732-688-2688.

Little Silver Garden Club Celebrates ‘Winter at the Homestead’

The Little Silver Garden Club partnered with Parker Homestead on December 7 and 8 for their “Winter at the Homestead” holiday event. Club members decorated the house using flowers, greens, and handmade crafts such as Victorian Kissing Balls. Homemade cookies and refreshments were served in the Parker Barn next to the house. Locals of all ages came to tour this historic treasure and enjoy a festive evening of good cheer.

Fair Haven Garden Club Wreath Making Event a Success

The Garden Club of Fair Haven wishes to thank everyone for their support of the Wreath Making Event held December 2 and 3, 2024. The funds raised will help the organization to support the community through projects, including town planters, holiday wreaths, work with local scout troops, monthly small flower arrangements for Meals-onWheels, scholarships, donations to conservation groups, educational workshops, Habitat for Humanity and the Harding Bird Sanctuary, to name just a few.

Children of the wreath makers were entertained by making a supervised craft themselves.

The Garden Club meets the first Wednesday of every month at noon in the Parish Center at the Church of the Nativity. Their program for January 8, 2025 will highlight “Talent within the Club” where members will share their other special talents.

The Juniors Program will be making Snow Owls for their project in January.

Those interested in learning more about the GC of FH, you can find out more information at www.gcfhnj.org.

Student Successes

A spotlight on the milestones and achievements of young people in Monmouth County

Editor’s note: Welcome to the first edition of our brand-new Student Successes column in Community Magazine! Each month we will be printing a roundup of the crowning achievements of local students from around Monmouth County. We will shine the spotlight on a variety of accomplishments, including academic based milestones, college acceptances, post-grad achievements, artistic endeavors, sports-related highlights and goals and all points in between. Know a standout student that has done something extraordinary? Tell us about it! Submissions can be sent to Emma@ communitymagazinenj.com

The University at Albany — SUNY has accepted Kevin Jordan of Matawan, who intends on majoring in Electrical and Computer Engineering; as well as Olivia Franco of Middletown, who intends on majoring in Childhood Education. They are two of the 5,430 students that were accepted as Great Danes this fall.

The University at Albany is one of the nation’s leaders in educational equity. A diverse institution that spawns bright leaders and launches great careers, UAlbany offers many fields and opportunities for its incoming students and postgraduate Great Danes.

Samuel Fung of Manapalan has become a CPR-certified member of Manalapan’s Teen CERT (Community Emergency Response Team). He also is a Department Volunteer Supervisor at Monmouth Fidelity Chinese School in Marlboro. Fung is a senior at Freehold Township High School, taking several AP and Honors Classes.

Outside of class, Fung is an Eagle Scout, enhancing the landscaping of Oakley Farm for his Eagle Scout Project.

Gabriella Sorrentino, a class of ’21 alumni of Trinity Hall in Tinton Falls, has been selected as a recipient of the 2025 Rhodes Scholarship. Only 32 students from across the nation are selected for this honor, which provides full funding for postgrad studies at the University of Oxford in England. Sorrentino, a senior at West Point, was one of the few that made the cut. An outstanding student at both West Point and Trinity Hall, Sorrentino is a dual major in philosophy and American history. At Trinity Hall, Sorrentino was a varsity athlete across several sports, a contributor to the school’s newspaper, leader of the chess and speech and debate clubs, and winner of the Poetry Out Loud Competition.

Trinity Hall Head of School Theresa Kiernan stated, “Trinity Hall proudly congratulates Gabriella Sorrentino on being named a Rhodes Scholar. Gabriella’s accomplishment is a testament to the core values of leadership, respect, perseverance and faith that are at the heart of a Trinity Hall education. Her dedication to service and unwavering commitment to excellence inspire our entire community. Congratulations, Gabriella, on this incredible honor!”

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This October, after 28 years, Peter Paras was ready to close his private Red Bank family law practice. He was not ready, however, to stop practicing law. Instead, relinquishing the firm’s business managerial duties allowed him to devote his skills and time entirely to representing clients. His goal was to join a firm that shared his commitment to the highest standards of practice. Ansell Grimm & Aaron, P.C. (Ansell.Law) immediately came to mind.

Peter C. Paras, Esq. Joins Ansell.Law

Paras and Ansell.Law have a long history together, beginning with his decades’ long friendship with founding member, David Ansell, whose work and sense of humor he admired greatly. Through the years, he has known and worked with members of the Ansell.Law Matrimonial & Family Law team, mostly as opposing counsel and often as co-counsel on cases. Paras developed a deep respect for their shared work ethic, values, and approach to getting the best results for clients who are undergoing very stressful and emotional issues. The respect is mutual.

“Welcoming an attorney at Peter’s skill level, with his tremendous experience in divorce and family law matters, along with his contributions to the New Jersey legal community, is a critical component of our strategic growth plan,” said President and Managing Shareholder Michael V. Benedetto. “We’re also looking forward to him mentoring our younger attorneys and helping build future leaders in family law.”

Paras has devoted his entire professional career to the exclusive practice of family law. Longtime CM readers may recognize him from the popular Divorce Talk column he

contributed monthly for many years. He has earned the respect of clients, lawyers, and judges, due to his knowledge of the law, preparation, and just as importantly, his fair and practical approach to cases. Some even appreciate his wry sense of humor! And, perhaps most telling is that many case referrals come to him from opposing parties who saw him in action first hand. What drives his unwavering work ethic? “There are three principles I follow,” Peter said. “Each client’s needs are unique; communication between lawyer and client is essential; and there is no substitute for preparation.”

Paras draws on his many years of experience and several hundred trials to evaluate whether a case can be favorably settled. The chances of a settlement are greatly increased due to most opposing counsel’s awareness of Paras’s skill and advocacy in the court room. However, if a trial will better serve his clients, they can rest assured Paras will be fully prepared and confident.

Paras and Ansell.Law are a good fit. When asked about his new position, his enthusiasm was evident, saying: “I am excited to continue to serve my clients with high quality representation and to contribute to the Ansell.Law tradition of excellence.”

Michael Benedetto agrees. “We’re thrilled to have him join the Firm. Peter’s vast talents as a trial attorney and counselor will benefit our clients immediately.”

Peter Paras can be reached at PParas@ansell.law or 732922-1000

PHOTO CREDIT: DANNY SANCHEZ

RCDS Partners with Sticks and Sprouts to Enhance Student Learning

For many adults, childhood memories are filled with the joys of making mud pies, jumping puddles, building forts, and playing outside until their sneakers were caked with dirt. But for today’s children, these experiences have become increasingly rare. In fact, only 1 in 5 American children play outside regularly, compared to more than 80% of their parents’ generation. Yet, research consistently highlights the benefits of outdoor play, revealing that children who spend more time outside have higher social emotional intelligence, greater executive functioning skills and are happier and healthier overall.

In response to this growing need to reconnect children with nature and instill critical 21st century skills, The Rumson Country Day School has announced a new partnership with Sticks and Sprouts, a nature-based program that empowers children to learn and grow through outdoor play. Beginning on January 7, this collaboration will bring a weekly enrichment special to Nursery and Pre-K stu-

dents, seamlessly integrating with the school’s curriculum.

“Sticks and Sprouts is a perfect complement to RCDS’s commitment to student-centered learning,” said Head of Lower School Lea Prendergast. “As children grow, their natural curiosity can sometimes be stifled, but this approach nurtures that curiosity while supporting their physical, emotional, and cognitive growth. By encouraging exploration and allowing children to take risks in a safe environment, we lay the foundation for positive social and academic outcomes.”

Led by a team of pediatric specialists and outdoor enthusiasts — including occupational therapists, early childhood educators, and speech and language pathologists — Sticks and Sprouts activities are carefully curated to support children’s development, blending guided experiences with opportunities for small group collaboration and free play in dynamic activity zones.

Ms. Prendergast says that the new partnership will provide RCDS’s young-

est learners with even more opportunities to develop critical 21st century skills like creativity, problem-solving, collaboration, and resilience. RCDS teachers will work with Sticks and Sprouts to seamlessly integrate its programming into their lesson plans and vice versa. Classroom lessons will be enhanced through the weekly enrichment sessions with Sticks and Sprouts, while the program’s outdoor experiences will reinforce and expand upon what students learn in the classroom.

The new Sticks and Sprouts program enters a rotation of specials classes that are already part of the Early Childhood Center’s comprehensive curriculum, including Spanish, science, art, music, iLib (a combination of library and technology), mindfulness, and physical education. Next year, the Sticks and Sprouts partnership will expand to include RCDS’s new 2’s program, further extending these enriching opportunities to even younger learners.

Sixteen Rumson-Fair Haven student-athletes made their college choices official by signing “Letters of Intent ‘’ to continue their academic and athletic careers at colleges and universities across the country. Surrounded by their families, friends, coaches, teammates, teachers, and administrators, the athletes donned their new colors and celebrated their hard work both in the classroom and on the sports field. The 16 athletes, who have made commitments in seven different sports, field hockey, gymnastics, lacrosse, rowing, track and field, and swimming, showcase the successful athletic program that RFH has built over the years, as well as their impressive individual talents and skills. These athletes will join countless others from RFH, both past and present, who have risen to new heights in the NCAA. Congratulations, Dawgs!

Rumson-Fair Haven Student-Athletes Make College Commitments

The complete list of athletes and their commitments:

• Isabella Kaczor, field hockey – Columbia University

• Sylvie Notine, field hockey – University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

• Natalie Lindgren, gymnastics – Towson University

• Kendall Carcaterra, girls lacrosse – Jacksonville University

• Mia Milkowski, girls lacrosse – George Washington University

• Kathryn O’Connor, girls lacrosse – Rider University

• Daisen Iwan, girls lacrosse – George Washington University

• Rachel James, girls lacrosse – Loyola University

• Vivian MacNeill, rowing – La Salle University

• Elsa Patten, rowing – Michigan State University

• Oliver Zanetich, rowing – University of Wisconsin, Madison

• Clemmie Lilley, track and field – Stanford University

• Isabella Rodriguez, track and field – The University of Pennsylvania

• Cassedy Stypul, track and field – George Washington University

• Meghan Donovan, swimming – Loyola University

• Annie Mee, swimming – Villanova University

"A must read if you or someone you know is facing a life threatening illness. Glen offers encouragement and great details for expectations and valuable insights on how to face a shocking diagnosis and what transpires thereafter."

"I'm in awe and in tears! Just finished the book and it is so moving, real, relatable and inspirational. You two continue to amaze me. I'm going to read a second time. It flowed so beautifully, I couldn't stop reading."

2024 Fair Haven Turkey Trot Marked by Wet and Windy Conditions

The running of the Eleventh Annual Fair Haven Turkey Trot this past November was not for the faint of heart.

"If you look up the word entrepreneur in the dictionary, you would find Glen's photo. He has provided a wealth of information to me for decades."

Conditions were windswept, wet, and chilly. A crowd of about 60 braved the conditions for the annual trot around Fair Haven Fields and took advantage of the public green space. The normally joyous group was whittled down by mother nature to the bone. The crowdsourced hot cocoa warmed the finishers and snacks were a hit for all attendees before, during and after the race. The annual event was produced by the volunteers at no cost and no pre-registration, making it easy to participate.

"Breathtakingly hopeful, a spirit filled, practical road map for navigating deadly diagnoses. Dalakian thoroughly delivers a blueprint in riveting detail from death to life on the other side of coming face to face with the beast."

This year, some of the winners traveled across state lines to collect the hardware and prizes. The Trot’s first ever sponsor, Outpost Running and Walking Co. of Little Silver, generously awarded all six of the category winners with gift cards. Our fastest runner, Jack Baker of Bel Air, Maryland topped the field

and snatched the prize for fastest high school boy. He was closely followed across the finish line by Brooklyn native, Alejandro “Alex” Animas, in the adult male category. The first Fair Haven resident, Henry Farrant, rounded it out, as the school-aged category winner. Henry swept the FH trophies this year by also winning the Firecracker 5K in July.

On the ladies’ side, Rumson-Fair Haven High School track and cross-country star and Fair Haven native, Hannah Nitka, led the way, capturing the High School girl category. Karen Waltz, hailing from Rumson, captured the title in the adult women’s category; she recently completed the Chicago Marathon this past fall. And to make it a true family affair, Natalie Farrant of Fair Haven (older sister of Henry), took home top honors in the school-aged category.

Photo and editorial credit: Chris Rodriguez

“Great personal story on the trials and tribulations of a great friend as he struggled to fight cancer. Many people have had similar challenges but few articulate them as well as Glen as he places God, Family and Friends as his rocks to navigate through the system culminating in his remission.”

Dalakian's narrative unfolds with raw emotion, offering practical insights and showcasing his unwavering determination From grueling chemotherapy sessions to daunting surgeries, he navigates through treatment armed with strength of character, gratitude, and unshakeable faith. This book not only serves as a beacon of hope for individuals confronting illness but also as a rallying cry for increased cancer awareness Through Dalakian's candid storytelling, readers are granted profound insights into the stark realities of illness and the transformative force of faith Everything to Stand stands as a testament to the indomitable force of the human spirit and the enduring strength of faith amidst adversity, inspiring readers to embrace their own capacity for resilience and extend compassion to those facing similar challenges

In Everything to Stand, Glen J. Dalakian intimately shares his harrowing journey battling a rare and aggressive form of cancer, inviting readers into a world marked by uncertainty, adaptability, and eventual triumph. With each chapter, Dalakian’s narrative unfolds with raw emotion, offering practical insights and showcasing his unwavering belief in God. From grueling chemotherapy sessions to daunting surgeries, he navigates through treatment armed with strength of character, gratitude, and unshakeable faith. This book not only serves as a beacon of hope for individuals confronting illness but also as a rallying cry for increased cancer awareness. Through Dalakian’s candid storytelling, readers are granted profound insights into the stark realities of illness and the transformative force of faith. Everything to Stand stands as a testament to the indomitable force of the human spirit and the enduring spiritual strength amidst adversity, inspiring readers to embrace their own capacity for resilience and extend compassion to those facing similar challenges.

In Everything to Stand, Glen J Dalakian intimately shares his harrowing journey battling a rare and aggressive form of cancer, inviting readers into a world marked by uncertainty, adaptability, and eventual triumph With each chapter,

The 2024 ATHENA Awards Honors Women Across New Jersey

BY EMMA SYLVIA

The Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual ATHENA Awards this past November, and the Chamber is already getting ready for their 2025 season. Executive Director of the Monmouth Regional Chamber, Terese Rölke, delves into the Chamber’s origins, the impact of the ATHENA Awards, and the 2025 calendar year.

Rölke began in the Chamber in March of 2013 as a member. After volunteering and adoring the people that she met through various chamber events, she became the face of the Chamber and was elected to the Board. Realizing she was already volunteering ample amounts of time, Rölke threw her hat in the ring after the executive stepped down in 2019. “This past December was my fifth anniversary,” Rölke says. “I started right before Covid, and now here we are, five years later – and we’re thriving. I just love what I do. I love helping people, I love connecting people, I love supporting people. It’s not a job if you love what you do.”

In January of 2016, the Monmouth Chamber merged with the Freehold Chamber, permitting it to be a county-wide resource. “It was a really good combination of groups,” Rölke lauds.

“We had most of our members from the Bayshore area and covered most of the eastern part of the county; and Freehold covered the center and western part of the county.” After Covid, the Monmouth Regional Chamber went virtual, and has been extremely active and successful since. “We are a very active chamber. We have anywhere from eight to 12 events a month, which is a lot for a small staff.” The Chamber hosts a Friday morning breakfast meeting, lunches for their Strong Women in Business group, and hosts a young professionals group. Another major event the Chamber hosts is ChamberCast, a podcast run out of Bell Works in Holmdel, where different panels discuss various topics, from inspirational to educational.

Perhaps the cornerstone of the Chamber’s work is the ATHENA Awards. ATHENA International is a nonprofit that amplifies and celebrates girls, women and their allies throughout the world. Rölke explains further:

“ATHENA recognizes people in the community who excel in their business or their job, give back to their communities, and support women to become the best leaders that you can

be. That’s what sets this award and these people apart – you have to be helping women to excel.”

The Monmouth Regional Chamber is the only licensed organization in the state of New Jersey that is able to host the ATHENA Awards, with this being their 39th consecutive year hosting the awards.

The ATHENA Awards accepts nominations for two distinct categories: the Leadership Award, and the Young Professional Leadership Award, specifically for those 40 years of age or younger (this being the most recent award to be celebrated, beginning in 2015). After the calculation of nominees’ information, five finalists in each category are determined.

BMW of Freehold has been the Diamond sponsor of the ATHENA Awards for well over a decade. The finalists of the awards are honored at a dinner reception at BMW Freehold. “These are top quality people,” Rölke says. “They get connected to each other, which is great.” The award winners are honored at a luncheon at Jumping Brook Country Club in Neptune. “We had 260 people at the event this year. It’s a testament to the finalists, and to the sponsors we have, as well.”

This year, the ATHENA Leadership Award was presented to Jacklyn “Jackie” Atkins. Atkins is the founder and President of New Jersey Give a Kid a Dream (NJGAKAD), which empowers at-risk

youth through boxing (Atkins herself was inducted into the New Jersey Boxing Hall of Fame (2014), the New Jersey Martial Arts Hall of Fame (2018), and the National Boxing Hall of Fame (2023)). Atkins also established Girls in Gloves, which is a program that teaches young women “self-defense, self-awareness, and self-love.” Atkins has also served as the President of the NJ Association of USA Boxing since 2015, is the Chair of the USAB National Commission for Women, and is a certified USA Boxing Level 3 coach. NJGAKAD reaches children in communities in New Jersey, Chicago, Las Vegas, Ohio, and Ghana.

The 2024 Young Professional Award went to Brianna “Bri” Lindia, lead singer of the award-winning band “The Nines”. Lindia holds the title of Miss New Jersey for America Strong 2021. The singer teamed up with the Applaud Our Kids Foundation as an ambassador to ensure that all children have access to art and music lessons, despite financial barriers. An advocate for small, women-owned businesses, Lindia has used her New Jersey “legacy queen” status to uplift dozens of businesses.

Rölke explains that this event begins in January of each year, and they’re eager to expand. “Not all nominations come from Monmouth County – they can come from all over the state,” she explains. “We’re looking to grow it. We want people from all over to submit their nominations.”

The ATHENA Awards have an extensive history in New Jersey – 39 years worth – which celebrates their “goddesses,” named after the original Athena of Greek mythology.

“This year, we had about 20 goddesses that came to the event, and we want to reengage them,” Rölke says. “We want them to be mentors to future leaders, and we want them to be there at the event. We want this program to go beyond the luncheon, and we want these relationships to be created to empower women even more.” International ATHENA goddesses include many notable female figures, including Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Billie Jean King, Condoleezza Rice, and many more. 2025 will mark the 40th consecutive year of the Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce hosting this program, and Rölke couldn’t be more excited. “In 2024, we put up these bigger-than-life-sized banners that tell the history of ATHENA International. It was a whole different feeling.” Rölke credits chairwoman Ivy Jacot for the innovation of the event, running it for the past five years with extensive drive and passion. “We took it up a notch this year,” Rölke says. “We try to take it to the next level, and we really wanna shine for the 40th anniversary awards.”

To learn more about the ATHENA Awards, head to monmouthregionalchamber.com/athena

Breaking Barriers: Cadet Alexis Jankovich’s Journey to West Point and Beyond

From the Jersey Shore to the Nation’s Frontlines, a Cadet’s Story of Service, Ambition, and Grit

BY MATT DOHERTY

At first glance, Alexis Jankovich’s journey seems improbable. Raised in Point Pleasant and now calling Brick, New Jersey, home, she has climbed a mountain few have dared to scale: the United States Military Academy at West Point. As a senior cadet on the cusp of graduation, Jankovich is poised to be commissioned as a second lieutenant in May 2025. With plans to attend medical school and eventually serve as a captain in the Army Medical Corps, her story is one of resilience, vision, and a profound sense of duty.

“I’ve always yearned to do the hardest thing possible,” Jankovich shares, reflecting on her decision to attend West Point. “I never wanted to take the easy path in life. I felt this moral obligation to challenge myself, and West Point offered me that opportunity in every possible way.”

A Path Forged in Determination

Jankovich’s high school years set the stage for her success. She attended the Marine Academy of Technology and Environmental Science (MATES), a competitive charter school in Ocean County. The rigorous academic environment prepared her well for the challenges of West Point, particularly in math and science. Yet, her preparation extended beyond the classroom.

“I competed in sports, sought out leadership opportunities, and really pushed myself,” she says. A standout swimmer for the Red Bank YMCA, Jankovich credits her time in the pool for developing the physical and mental toughness that West Point demands. “The discipline and commitment I learned through swimming gave me an edge,” she adds.

As a first-generation college student, her path wasn’t always clear. However, her family’s unwavering support became her bedrock. “My parents and grandparents have been there every step of the way,” Jankovich says, her voice brimming with gratitude. “Their support has been my constant source of strength.”

Building a Family in the Army

What started as a pursuit of personal challenge evolved into something far more profound. “What got me to West Point isn’t what kept me there,” Jankovich admits. “It’s the people—the friends I’ve made and the experiences I’ve had. The Army is a family, and it’s one I’m incredibly proud to be part of.”

That sense of family, both at West Point and beyond, has shaped her vision for the future. As she looks ahead to medical school, Jankovich remains committed to her ultimate goal: serving soldiers and their families.

“I’ve always wanted to be a physician,” she explains. “Watching people suffer and wanting to alleviate their pain has been a driving force in my life. And in the Army, I want to be the person who ensures injured soldiers come home to their families. That’s what motivates me every day.”

Jersey Shore Roots

While her aspirations are global, Jankovich’s love for her Jersey Shore roots is palpable. “The Jersey Shore has the best beaches,” she says with a smile, recalling her summers as a lifeguard in Lavallette. “The sunsets, the water sports, the community—it’s a special place.”

Though her future will take her far from home, Jankovich feels deeply connected to her family and her New Jersey upbringing. “Home is where my family is,” she says. “Even if my career takes me around the world, I’ll always find my way back.”

A Glimpse into the Future

Jankovich’s ambitions extend beyond her military career. After serving in the Army, she hopes to work with organizations like Doctors Without Borders, providing life-changing surgeries to underserved communities worldwide. “The idea of taking a hiatus from a hospital to perform pro bono cleft lip surgeries in different countries—that’s my dream,” she says.

Her time at West Point has already offered glimpses of the future. During a recent training opportunity, Jankovich shadowed medical professionals at Fort Cavazos, Texas, and even donned a biosafety suit at a cutting-edge lab. “It was an incredible experience,” she recalls. “These opportunities have shown me what’s possible and what my role could be in advancing medical care.”

Advice for the Next Generation

For young women considering their futures, Jankovich offers words of encouragement: “Never underestimate your abilities. You are fully capable, whether it’s academically, militarily, or as a leader. If you want it, you can achieve it.”   She is also an advocate for service

academies, urging prospective students to explore the opportunities they offer. “West Point, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard— they’re all incredible paths. It’s not for everyone, but you won’t know unless you try,” she says.

Her own journey stands as a testament to the transformative power of pushing boundaries. From stepping foot in one of the country’s most rigorous academic institutions to wearing a uniform that commands respect, Jankovich’s story is one of honor, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to serve.

The Weight of the Uniform

When asked how it feels to wear the uniform of the United States Army, Jankovich pauses, her voice taking on a solemn tone. “It’s humbling,” she says. “This uniform doesn’t just represent West Point—it represents our country. It’s an honor to be part of something so much bigger than myself.”

Her gratitude extends to the people who have helped her along the way— family, friends, and mentors. “None of this would be possible without them,” she says. “And I hope to make an impact on the world, just as they’ve impacted my life.”

A Legacy in the Making

As graduation looms, Jankovich reflects on the path that brought her to West Point and the road ahead. “I have nothing but positive memories to look back on,” she says. “The experiences, the challenges, the people—they’ve shaped me into the person I am today.”

And while her journey is far from over, one thing is clear: Cadet Alexis Jankovich is a leader who embodies the very best of what it means to serve. From the Jersey Shore to the halls of West Point and beyond, her story is one of courage, dedication, and a boundless drive to make a difference.

Thomas.Verdiglione@elliman.com