For Zones 1 through 6, we further pre-qualify who we mail to based on a minimum household income of $160K, or minimum home value of $850K.
CM Readers
74% Married
80%+ College Educated
72% Have Children
40% Own A Second Home
Median Age 47
Median Income $185,000
Median Home Value $850,000+
Dine Out 12+ Times Monthly
ZONE 5
Atlantic Highlands • Highlands • Lincroft
Middletown • Red Bank
ZONE 6
Freehold Township
Freehold Borough
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Ways to Beat the Winter Blues
(without hopping on a plane)
There is no way around it — we are in the depths of the coldest and darkest months of the year, a time when a lot of folks end up feeling down. While it may be tempting to book a plane ticket to a warm island, that can also be pricey. The good news is you can shake those winter blues while staying right here in Monmouth County. Sure, it can take a bit of effort, but there are several strategies that can help lift your mood and boost your energy during the colder, darker months. Here are some tips:
1. Get More Natural Light
• Maximize daylight exposure: Spend time outdoors during the day, even if it’s just for a walk. Sunlight helps regulate your circadian rhythm and boosts serotonin levels. Take a brisk walk down the boardwalk in Asbury Park to remind yourself that the beach is still there, and summer is just around the corner.
• Use light therapy: Consider investing in a light therapy box, which mimics natural sunlight and can help fight Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
2. Stay Active
• Exercise regularly: Physical activity releases endorphins, which improve mood. Even a daily walk, stretching, or home workout can help. Plan a hike through one of Monmouth County’s many parks in order to work up a sweat and keep yourself ready for bathing suit season.
• Try indoor activities: If it’s too cold outside, consider indoor options like yoga, dance, or fitness classes.
3. Socialize and Stay Connected
• Maintain social connections: Loneliness can worsen the winter blues, so make time for socializing, whether in person or virtually. Even a quick chat with friends or family can lift your spirits. With the holidays in the rear-view mirror and the busy days of the summer still far away, now is a great time to plan a day with friends as most people’s calendars are wide open. Plan a group outing for all ages at a fun spot like iPlay America in Freehold.
• Engage in hobbies or group activities: Join a class, book club, or any activity that interests you to keep your mind engaged and positive.
4. Eat Nutritious Foods
• Eat mood-boosting foods: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help maintain stable energy levels and improve mental well-being.
• Vitamin D: Lack of sunlight can lead to vitamin D deficiency, which has been linked to depression. Consider a supplement if needed (but consult with a healthcare professional first).
5. Practice Self-care
• Create cozy rituals: Enjoy warm drinks, scented candles, reading, or listening to soothing music. These small comforts can make winter feel more enjoyable.
• Get enough sleep: Proper rest is crucial for mental health. Stick to a consistent sleep schedule and make your bedroom a relaxing space.
6. Set Small Goals and Stay Productive
• Break tasks into manageable steps: The dreariness of winter can feel overwhelming, but accomplishing small goals can give you a sense of purpose and control.
• Stay organized: Use this time to declutter or take on projects you’ve been putting off, as accomplishing tasks can improve your mood.
7. Embrace Winter Activities
• Enjoy winter sports: If you’re open to it, activities like skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, or even building a snowman can make the season more fun.
• Get creative: If you’re indoors more often, try creative pursuits like crafting, painting, or baking, which can be both therapeutic and rewarding.
8. Consider Professional Support
• If you’re feeling consistently down or struggling to cope, it may be helpful to speak with a therapist. They can offer support and coping strategies tailored to your needs.
• By focusing on self-care, staying active, and finding ways to enjoy the season, you can beat the winter blues and feel more energized and positive.
Bradley Beach for A New Day
A Q&A with Bradley Beach’s Newly Elected Mayor
BY EMMA SYLVIA
We recently had the chance to sit down with the freshly inaugurated Bradley Beach Mayor, Al Gubitosi. Mayor Gubitosi – who insists on being called by just “Al” – discussed what it’s like to be a first-time mayor, what residents have to look forward to in Bradley in 2025, and how to get involved in your local politics.
Community Magazine: Could you introduce yourself to our readers?
Al Gubitosi: I’m retired, I’m married, and I have four sons. Between them, I have 10 grandchildren, and two more grandchildren on the way. Background, I think, starts with family, and it’s been an exciting ride. Professionally, I worked in corporate America, largely as a human resource and employee benefits consultant. I worked in that field for many years. Within Bradley Beach, I’ve owned a house here for 18plus years. I spent seven years on our planning board, five years as a council person, and this past year, I ran for election for mayor and was fortunate enough to win.
CM: How did your race for mayor begin?
AG: I retired a little over two years ago. As I was approaching retirement and living in Bradley, friends in the community encouraged me to become active within it. I had already been approached by the mayor at the time to be on the planning board. A friend encouraged me to go to council meetings, and I found them very informative and thought-provoking. That early exposure got me introduced.
Early in my career, before employee benefits consulting, I had been a CPA, and an auditor. A lot of the financial stuff the borough was facing years ago, I jumped into. That led to a few
friends on the council asking me to run with them. That’s how my political career was born – just trying to help Bradley Beach.
I’ve always been really appreciative to others that have devoted their time and energy to this. It’s a lot of volunteerism. Since sitting on the council, I pretty much donate the small salary I receive back to local nonprofits. To me, it’s all about serving the community and its residents. That’s what motivated me to get more and more involved. Since being on the council for five years, I’ve learned a lot, especially about what I think is good for the community and where I think we could improve.
CM: Has anything about being mayor surprised you so far?
AG: I was only sworn in on January 1. A lot of my early work is sitting down and getting to speak with our employees. Many of them I’ve known, but I haven’t
spoken to them about their operations or roles. As a legislator, you’re not managing people; now, people are looking to me as a manager. I’ve done that in my corporate life, but this is my first time going through it in the municipal world. I’m learning a lot in my early conversations and trying to establish professional relationships. I’m much more actively involved in getting the right people in the right places moving forward.
The other thing that’s a fun part but also new to me is the surprise of how many people are interested in what’s going on. I constantly have people asking me, “Can you tell me about this or that?” or “I’d like to volunteer with this, how do I get involved?” It’s a new dynamic. While I was always available to the public in my council role, it’s magnified in the past few weeks with people knowing I was going to take this role. It’s exciting, but I didn’t see it coming. I’ve been trying to be respon-
sive to folks and let them know what’s happening. There’s great community interest in what’s happening in the borough. I’m the focal point for a lot of people’s questions and interests. It’s a great thing, but I didn’t see it coming.
CM: What were you most excited about going into this job?
AG: When you’re on the council, you’re doing an awful lot legislatively to keep the borough’s long-term strategic vision intact and aligned with rules and ordinances. You don’t manage operations – that’s the job of the mayor. I was most excited, then, to take on more of a leadership role and manage operations.
During my campaign, I wanted a clear message to residents that my immediate focus was on two things. One: Getting our finances in order, and two: Resolving a union contract stalemate. Financially, we face some challenges, and I spoke about my background as an
auditor. I swore to get that straightened out. And, to the latter point, we have a big block of our borough employees that are part of a union (Local 152). It includes DPW, our police dispatch and office clerical employees. They’ve been without a contract for two years. For the past year, every council meeting, I’ve been beating the drum to resolve this contract stalemate. That was very important to me, and I was very excited for a chance to address it. We have things set up already for the union to work out an agreement.
CM: What are you excited for in 2025?
AG: Along with me becoming the mayor, we have new council members. We have a council of five people, and I’m really excited about working together as a team. We’ve had challenges in the past with disagreements on how to serve the public. I think as we enter 2025, we have a great team. Shana Greenblatt won with me, and Jane DeNoble and John Weber both have great expertise and background. Paul Nowicki, too, has a great
background and passion for Bradley. I’m looking forward to some really good people doing some really good things for this town as we work together. The council sees it as a new day. We’ve made a point in stressing that.
CM: What events in 2025 do residents have to be excited about?
AG: We have a ton of events and a couple of organizations in town that are created to manage and create those events. We have the BBBCA – the Bradley Beach Business and Community Alliance, which has 200 residents as members and 100 businesses as members. Additionally, we have the tourism commission. These two groups have activities and events all year long. We have bands and concerts and arts and craft shows – it’s a really dynamic environment for residents and visitors. It’s a really fun area.
CM: Do you have any advice for those looking to get into local politics?
AG: My advice: Please do! I jokingly refer to The Matrix’s blue pill and red pill. Once you take that red pill, you can’t
undo it or go back. That’s kinda what happened to me. I got an understanding of how the governing body serves Bradley Beach. You get addicted and hooked to doing things for your community. If you get into it a little bit, you get into it a lot. We have a community of very professional and experienced people. We’re rolling out a strategic framework to encourage people to volunteer on eight different task forces, focused on Main Street and infrastructure – I think that will be a great way to get people to volunteer and help the community moving forward.
CM: Any closing statements?
AG: We really have a wonderful community and very active and passionate volunteers serving the community. It really is a new day for us in Bradley – we’re all excited about moving forward and creating some really good services, experiences, and really good outcomes for Bradley. We’ve had some challenges in the last couple years, and I think everyone is really excited about moving forward.
FIXING A STUFFY NOSE AND SNORING
QUESTION: My nose is always stuffy, worse on one side. And not only that...I am told by my spouse that I snore loud! What can I do?
ANSWER: Your best bet is a full evaluation by an ENT specialist who can determine what is causing your nasal obstruction and the most effective treatment. Often, once the nasal breathing is restored, the loud snoring is then diminished or even eliminated. There are several steps necessary for a thorough exam:
HISTORY: Questioning the patient about previous trauma to the nose and also anything that may cause chronic swelling inside the nasal cavity like recurrent sinus infections, allergies and overuse of intranasal sprays such as Afrin.
EXAM: Fiberoptic scope of the nose and throat to look for septal deviations, polyps, abnormal enlargements of other intranasal structures, and draining secretions which can be cultured. Check the external nasal structure for cartilage collapse that can result in a valve obstruction. Also allergy tests, home sleep studies and CT scans if indicated.
TREATMENT: Customized to the patient’s cause of obstruction. Can be as simple as a regimen of intranasal and oral medications or more complex involving surgical procedures.
ADVANCED SURGICAL TREATMENT: The latest techniques allow for quick recovery, no bruising, more precise repairs and open breathing immediately after surgery. Technology has improved with the use of 4K camera/monitors and microscopic visualization, laser guided infrared navigation and new methods and instrumentation for septum repair, turbinate reduction, valve collapse reconstruction and sinus blockage. Rhinoplasty techniques have also advanced and can often be performed at the same time if there are external nasal cosmetic concerns.
Teacher Feature
Name: Jessica Kerber
Title:
5th Grade Teacher
Place of Employment:
Ocean Twp. Intermediate School
Town of Residency: Spring Lake
FIRST RESPONDERS
Q & A
Name: Michael Ballas
Title: Patrolman
Place of Employment:
Tinton Falls Police Department
Town of Residency: Avon-by-the-Sea
Q: What do you love about teaching, and what keeps you coming back each day?
A: I absolutely love the energy my students bring each day. It keeps me challenged, engaged, and on my toes. That’s the type of atmosphere I thrive in. My students haven’t been completely jaded by the outside world just yet, and they are open to a world of possibilities.
Q: What is the most challenging thing about working with kids?
A: Time. There is never enough time to accomplish everything I want to with each of my students. Every child is unique and requires individualized time and attention. That can be very challenging.
Q: What was your school experience like as a kid? Did you enjoy school?
A: I was fortunate to have an overall positive experience in school. I excelled in my studies, received many awards, and participated in multiple sports and extracurricular activities. Doing well academically was always something I strived for. I definitely put in the work. I wasn’t the student who just understood everything the first time — I always put in the effort, and I think it paid off. I was selected to attend the Academy of Allied Health and Science for high school, and I went on to graduate summa cum laude from college.
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 love to set up a class that partnered with different community organizations to show kids the behind-the-scenes workings of businesses and organizations. It would be great to expose kids to different career opportunities, even at a young age. Connecting kids to something bigger than themselves has tremendous value. Being exposed to these different avenues might spark something that a student could build on for a lifetime.
Q: What is the most important thing that your students have taught you?
A: The most important thing my students have taught me is that there are lots of little victories to be won every day. Sometimes, when you look at test scores or data points, it’s easy to get discouraged, but when you see improvement or a lightbulb moment in a student, it’s something to celebrate. Each child comes into school with their own battles, and every step in the right direction is a win.
Q: What initially made you want to be a first responder?
A: I’m fortunate to come from a family of service. The Ballas family has served in the Armed Forces over the last five generations. After the completion of my military service, I wanted to continue to serve in law enforcement. I would also like to throw a shout out to my brother, Rob, who’s active-duty Army in Ft. Riley, Kansas right now.
Q: What do you find to be most rewarding about this kind of work?
A: Unfortunately, there are people in the community who have no one to turn to except us, whether it’s as simple as a lift assist, solving a crime that they’re a victim of or connecting with their kids who might be struggling. Just letting people know they’re not alone and that we are here to help them is a great feeling.
Q: What is the hardest aspect of the job?
A: Finding a work-life balance is a struggle. We work long, constantly changing shifts that can take a lot out of you physically, mentally and emotionally. This being said, your loved ones make a lot of sacrifices too when you’re constantly at work –you have to be present when you’re with them.
Q: Do any aspects of the job ever scare you?
A: For sure, but if you spend the time to train and never get complacent, you’ll be okay. Honestly, the most frightening thing to me is letting down the guys and girls I work with.
Q: What was your most memorable experience on the job so far?
A: I’ve been lucky enough to make several close friends over the last six years. This job can be extremely difficult, but when you surround yourself with good people it makes showing up to shift after shift way easier. We have some of the most outrageous experiences together and to me, that’s what life is all about.
Valentine's Day GUIDE
Love Bites!
Our picks on where to dine this Valentine’s Day
BY RYAN LOUGHLIN
Of all holidays, few come with as much built-in pressure as Valentine’s Day. There are all kinds of expectations, and much time can be spent trying to figure out the perfect spot to celebrate with your sweetheart. While you can always tweak the details surrounding it, dinner is always going to play a big part in the evening. And with that in mind, here’s our list of recommendations for whatever type of V-Day dining experience you are looking for.
The Classic Valentine’s Day
When you are looking to go the classy and elegant route to impress your significant other on Valentine’s Day, you know the drill for the paint by numbers version – dozens of roses, maybe a sparkly piece of jewelry (bonus if it comes in a Tiffany blue box), Godiva chocolates, and, of course, dinner at a spot where a fabulous dress is more the norm than the exception. Monmouth County has an assortment of options for this kind of Valentine’s Day.
Right off the bat, we love Charlie’s of Lincroft for their fabulous menu of contemporary American dishes and craft cocktails served in an elegant upscale atmosphere. (CharliesofLincroft.com)
If fab French cuisine is more your speed, Pascal and Sabine in Asbury Park offers a romantic setting in the heart of the downtown area, where you can indulge in classics like escargot and one of the best charcuterie boards in the area before heading down Cookman Avenue for a nightcap at any one of the many bars that line the block. (PascalAndSabine.com)
And if you are looking for a spot to turn up the heat on your romantic evening, it’s tough to beat 618 in Freehold, which was named one of the most romantic restaurants in the country by OpenTable.com two years in a row. They offer a
brilliant and creative approach to familiar dishes (pear-stuffed pasta anyone?) and one of the most innovative cocktail menus you will find outside of NYC. Speaking of cocktails, from 6:308:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb 12, 618 will host their Valentine’s Day Cocktail Class. Attendees will learn from 618’s master mixologists, mixing up three unique love potions, including 618’s “Be Mine Cocktail.” Light bites and a goodie bag are included. $99 per person. (618NJ.com.)
While the majority of your Valentine’s gaze may be aimed directly into each other’s eyes, one can’t help but assume that a lovely view can only enhance your perfect evening. Few can top what Rooney’s in Long Branch has to offer in that department, with the sweeping oceanfront seascape visible from just about everywhere in their gorgeous restaurant. Live jazz and some of the freshest seafood money can buy make this spot an absolute bullseye for Cupid’s arrow. (RooneysOcean.com)
The Modern Valentine’s Day
Classic charm has its place, but to really add a touch of electricity and excitement into your Valentine’s Day, you can’t
Charlie’s of Lincroft
go wrong with a spot that’s on the cutting edge. We can’t think of a good reason not to head to AP Rooftop, the newest, hippest and sexiest addition to the McLoone’s army of restaurants. Panoramic views of the beach, the boards and the city, sleek modern design elements and a playful menu combining everything from seafood and steaks to Italian dishes and creative cocktails, AP Rooftop sets a chic tone for any Valentine’s date. (APRooftop.com)
Or head across town to Hadaka , a super-exclusive sushi spot offering a special Valentine’s Day Omakase experience that is sure to impress. The 12-course option is $85 per person, while the 18-course version is $135 per person and both come with complimentary champagne toast, chocolate covered strawberries and dessert included. (HadakaNJ.com)
The Anti-Valentine’s Day
Whether you’re recently dumped, willfully single (and NOT particularly looking to mingle), or simply in possession of a deeply personal gripe with Cupid himself, you certainly aren’t alone. Plenty of folks aren’t onboard with all the sugary-sweet, lovey-dovey stuff that makes up a traditional Valentine’s celebration, and that’s ok. But a Friday night is a Friday night and there is still every reason to go out. That said, you may wish to avoid the flocks of lovebirds that will surely be painting the town as red as a heart-shaped box of Russell Stovers, so we have included a few places that should suit your anti-Valentine’s vibe just fine starting with nobody’s pick for Valentine’s Day — Windmill!
AP Rooftop
Not that we don’t absolutely love their incredibly delicious hot dogs and chili cheese fries (lord knows we do!), but we can’t imagine you’ll be running into that much sexy time down at the local Windmill location, which makes this a perfect spot to hit up on V-Day if you are looking to pretend the holiday doesn’t exist. And should you happen to fall in love at first sight with the guy slinging dogs on the grill, consider that fate in its truest form. (WindmillHotDogs.com)
For the ladies, Meximodo in Metuchen will be hosting their official Galentine’s Day event from 7-10 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13, which features a 4-course dinner with guac, ceviche, choice of entrée and dessert as well as cocktail pairings for each course for $69.99 per person. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Grab your gal pals and forget about what’s-hisname for a night. (Meximodo.com)
Wednesday, February 12, 2025 7:00 PM 10:00 PM
5 Pearl Street Metuchen, NJ, 08840
Avoid the hassle, long waits and rush of the holiday –Reserve a special dinner with your Valentine at Meximodo! Join us for a delicious four-course dinner, perfectly paired cocktails sponsored by Patron, and fun giveaways throughout the night. This event will take place in the beautiful ambience of our Rose Room mezzanine, so tickets are limited.
Get your tickets here!
www.meximodo.com/events/p/love-without-rush
is in the Air in Monmouth County
BY EMMA SYLVIA
It’s the season of love all around the country, and there’s nowhere better to celebrate than here in Monmouth County. Need an idea for what to do this Valentine’s Day? There are plenty of offerings across the county, with more than just a dinner to be had this February 14…
Asbury Park Boardwalk
One of the most iconic locations in New Jersey is the Asbury Park Boardwalk. The Jersey rock sound was born here – and so can your love. Spend a day with your sweetheart enjoying all the town has to offer.
SHOP:
• Carla Gizzi - a vintage and locally owned store full of gifts, clothes, jewelry and accessories
• Asbury Galleria - a feature of authentic AP memorabilia
PLAY:
• Madame Marie - made famous by a line from The Boss, get your fortune told at New Jersey staple Madame Marie
• Silverball Retro Arcade - go back to the past in this arcade full of classic pinball machines and other retro arcade games
DINE AND DRINK:
• Iron Whale - an inventive take on seafood with a gorgeous ocean view
• Robinson’s Ale House - perfect for a quick lunch or night out, this iconic beachfront restaurant is right next to Convention Hall
Fall in Love at the Spa
Love is in the air at Kur Wellness Studios! This Valentine’s Day, give the ultimate experience – the gift of self-care and wellness. Here are some unforgettable ways to celebrate:
• Kur Couples Massages — Celebrate Valentine’s Day with side-by-side massages, where each therapist focuses on your individual needs. Schedule two massages of the same length, and we’ll connect the rooms with a special couple’s window for a memorable experience together.
• Kur Spa Day Packages — Want to give the ultimate gift to your loved one? Instead of a single service, consider giving 2.5 hours or more of pure bliss! Packages
like Perfect Touch, Spoiled Gentleman, or The Works provide a therapeutic massage, scrub or wrap with steam shower, and finish with a pampering and effective facial.
• Aromatherapy — Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils to manage health or boost well-being. Essential oils have been used for thousands of years to heal the mind, body, and spirit, returning the body to a state of equilibrium. A diffuser and specific oils or blends that match your goals can create a spa-like environment in your own home. Kur sells several ultrasonic diffusers and more than 20 essential oils and blends—perfect for gifting to a loved one this Valentine’s Day.
• Kur Gift Cards — Choose any denomination for a gift card that can be used for products, services, and gratuity. A gift card is always a great choice — it can be used anytime!
Kur Wellness Studios is located at 412 Bond St. in Asbury Park. KurStudios.com
Flowers
In need of a bouquet to treat your date? Look no further than Pantano Home & Garden in Holmdel. With an array of gorgeous arrangements available to be made by their floral designer, Travis, Pantano is able to take pre-orders and customize as needed. Rose arrangements are also available for preorder. Visit them for bouquets, as well as medium and large arrangements. Pantano Home & Garden is located at 161 Route 34 in Holmdel. PantanoOutdoorSupply.com
Valentine’s DayDIRECTORY
Need help finding gifts or something else for your special day with your love? Here’s a handy Monmouth County directory for all your Valentine’s needs.
FLORISTS
Pantano Home and Garden 161 Route 34, Holmdel www.PantanoOutdoorSupply.com
Anna’s Flowers and Gifts 175 Monmouth Rd, West Long Branch www.AnnasFlowersAndGift.com
Freehold Flowers 10 W Main Street, Freehold www.FreeholdFlowersNJ.com
Boxwood Gardens Florists 807 River Road, Fair Haven www.BoxwoodGardenFlorist.net
CONFECTIONS
Red Bank Chocolate Shoppe 17 White Street, Red Bank RedBankChocolateShoppe.com
The Caramel Shop 1215 Rt 35, Ocean Township Facebook.com/TheCaramelShoppe
River Street Sweets 550 Cookman Avenue, Asbury Park RiverStreetSweets.com
The Papery of Shrewsbury 540 Broad Street, Shrewsbury ThePapery.com
The Paper Moon 315 Main Street, Allenhurst Instagram.com/thepapermoon
Who’s Keeping a Watchful Eye on Eatontown’s Redevelopment?
BY ROY EISEN
2 0 -Ye a r D e v e l o p m e n t P l a n
Triencing the most rapid growth in its 250-year history. At the heart of the redevelopment is Fort Monmouth, Monmouth Square and the downtown area.
The closure of Fort Monmouth was part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) Commission’s recommendations in 2005, which aimed to realign military resources and save costs. Fort Monmouth officially closed on September 15, 2011. The Fort Monmouth Economic Revitalization Authority (FMERA) was formed in 2010 and was established to guide the redevelopment and revitalization of the former U.S. Army installation, promoting economic growth and community enhancement in the area. The current plan includes Netflix to construct 12 studios on the site.
Monmouth Mall was declared an “Area in Need of Redevelopment” by the Mayor and Council on April 26, 2023. This designation is part of a plan to revitalize the mall, which opened in 1960, and transform it into a modern, mixed-use development. Monmouth Mall currently has 1.5 million square feet of indoor retail space. Planned redevelopment has 900,000 square feet of retail space that will become part of an outdoor mall and 10 new residential buildings are to be erected containing 1,000 luxury rental units. The developer is re-naming the area “Monmouth Square”.
What about the downtown area and where is it? Unlike other nearby municipalities such as Red Bank and Long Branch, Eaton-
town is not known to have a downtown. The geographic center of Eatontown is the RT 35/RT 36 interchange, but most consider the downtown to be the area in and around RT 35 and Broad Street.
On April 25th, 2024, the Mayor and Council adopted a resolution declaring the Planning Board’s “Redevelopment Study” as an area of redevelopment. More specifically, the area includes the block around the Municipal Building, the lower parking lot off of Throckmorton Avenue and the Lewis St. jughandle.
The Mayor and Council recognized that now was the appropriate time to reclassify this area. Many properties seem old and tired, including a much-needed new municipal complex and ample parking to promote economic revitalization. Additionally, the anticipated arrival of Netflix to Fort Monmouth should help attract developers to build Eatontown’s shiny new penny!
For more information contact the author via email at: roye@exitrealtyec.com
About the author: Roy Eisen is currently a licensed Realtor in the State of New Jersey specializing in both residential and commercial sales for EXIT Realty East Coast. He has been an Eatontown resident for over 35 years and is a former Councilman and past member of both the Planning Board and Zoning Board. Currently, he is Co-chairman of the Traffic Advisory Committee, is a Shade Tree Commissioner, and member of both the Economic Advisory Committee and Green Team.
Fort Monmouth Economic Revitalization Authority
Graphic from Fort Monmouth Redevelopment Plan
Pizzafari! Hunting for the 5 best pizzas in Monmouth County
BY RYAN LOUGHLIN
It’s no secret that New Jersey is synonymous with great pizza. And while North Jersey often gets much of the credit for having the top pies, over the years the competition has stiffened, to the point where a valid argument could be made that Central Jersey’s pizza game is as strong or (dare we say) even STRONGER than that of our neighbors up the Parkway. The shore area in particular is a pizza powerhouse, but although there are many tasty slices to be devoured here, some spots still stand out among the greats. Here are our picks for the five best pizzas in Monmouth County:
The Sauce (Oceanport) — Plain pie
The Sauce in Oceanport only opened a little over a year ago, but in a short time has made a big name for itself. Owner Jason Enger and his team are passionate about what they do and it shows. Quality is king here and it hasn’t gone unnoticed, as The Sauce up a finalist last year in the Asbury Park Press’ “Best Pizza at the Jersey Shore” tournament, (where they were narrowly edged out by another legend from this list, The Galley in Asbury Park.) Pretty impressive stuff for a pizza joint that only launched a few months prior. Their buffalo chicken pie is one of the best we have ever tasted and should absolutely be on your list of “must tries”, but if you are looking for a great local spot to order a classic plain pie on a Friday night, The Sauce’s is tough to beat. Paper thin crust tap-daces on the line between a classic pie and a bar pie, but is just thick enough to land on the side of the former, and the ratio of cheese to sauce is nailed masterfully. Order 10 of them for your next office party and be the hero of the day. The Sauce is located at 281 E. Main St. in Oceanport. Go to TheSaucePizzeria.com.
Esposito’s (Matawan and Manasquan) — Vodka Sesame Seed Pie
Until around 10 years ago the concept of a sesame seeded pizza was all but unheard of, but recently its taken off like a rocket, and by far the best local spot to grab one is at Esposito’s, which has locations in both Matawan and Manasquan. The dough is buttery and even the folks that generally leave the crusts on the plate can’t resist plowing right through one of these slices. They are available in a variety of topping combinations, and the best of them is the Vodka sauce Sesame Pie, which comes in swinging with a velvety vodka sauce that serves as a creamy change of pace from the more traditionally acidic tomato sauces you’ll find on most pies. The sesame crust gives the whole bite a pronounced bagel-y flavor, merging the best of both worlds in a way you never even realized you were missing out on. Esposito’s is located at 930 Rt. 34 in Matawan. Go to EspositosPizza.com.
The Sauce
Esposito's
The Galley (Asbury Park) — Detroit Pie
In truth, we could have put just about any pizza from The Galley’s incredible menu on this list and it would have been a legit pick. This Asbury Park spot has become a destination pizzeria for many folks across the state and beyond thanks to its reputation for putting out some of the most consistently fabulous pies anywhere. We love everything from their bar pies to their pan pizzas — the “Station 83” with spicy salami, ricotta cheese, chili oil, fresh basil and Mike’s Hot Honey is something of a legend — but we gotta go with their Detroit-style pie for this list. A rectangular pie cut into six squares, it’s both doughy and crispy, with cheese right to the edge and a chunky tomato sauce that doesn’t fade into the background of the bite. And a small one is perfectly sized to feed two people, despite its relatively modest appearance. The Galley is located at 1313 Memorial Dr. in Asbury Park. Go to TheGalleyAsbury.com.
Federici’s (Belmar, Freehold) — Pepperoni Pie
There is something undeniably old school about the vibe at Federici’s. This makes sense, as the Federici family has been operating restaurants in Monmouth County since 1932. The newest of the group (which includes the original Federici’s along with Frankie Fed’s — both in Freehold) is Federici’s on 10th which opened in Belmar in 2014 and serves a nearly identical menu to what you are used to from the Feds. Slide your way into one of their big, cozy booths and order up one of their signature brick oven piz -
zas (be sure to get a house salad too if you want to try the most delicious creamy Italian dressing of your life). The pizza here is the stuff of legend — the thinnest of thin crusts awaits and the crumbly charred edges make this pie nearly unbeatable. And when topped with pepperoni? Utter perfection. Federici’s has locations in Freehold and Belmar. Go to FedsPizza.com
Krispy Pizza (Freehold) — Grandma Pie
Krispy Pizza’s legendary status began with their original shop in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn which remains one of the best pizzerias in the city. But Jersey was blessed when they began expanding to the Garden State, which now boasts four locations, including one in Freehold. They live up to their name as well, as you’d be hard pressed to find a crispier (Krispier?) slice anywhere. We love the Grandma pie, with its simple combo of mozzarella, basil leaf and one of the best sauces we have sampled anywhere. Krispy Pizza is located at 136 Schanck Road in Freehold. Go to KrispyPizza.com
Krispy Pizza
The Galley
Federici's
BIZBEAT
BY RYAN LOUGHLIN
A roundup of new things happening at Monmouth County businesses.
Wolf Fine Jewelers finds a new home in Middletown
A family-owned jewelry store which had been in the Monmouth Mall since 1973, Wolf Fine Jewelers has found a new home in Monmouth County. Their new luxury standalone store is now conveniently located at 1580 Route 35 South in Middletown NJ. Wolf is a custom jeweler, specializing in a one-of-a-kind products and offering a fabulous customer experience. A one stop shop for all jewelry and watch repairs, they also offer professional ear piercings. They are open Sunday from 11a.m.-3 p.m., Monday-Wednesday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thursday and Friday 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Go to WolfFineJewelers.com or find them on Facebook and Instagram.
Freehold Montessori celebrates their silver anniversary
Freehold Montessori proudly celebrates 25 years of nurturing tomorrow’s leaders with a steadfast commitment to academic excellence, creativity, and character development. Serving students from 18 months through kindergarten, the school embraces the Montessori philosophy, fostering independent thinking, problem-solving, and a lifelong love of learning. Kindergarten graduates transition seamlessly into first grade, equipped with strong academic foundations and social skills. By creating a supportive environment, Freehold Montessori empowers students to discover their unique potential while promoting respect for others and the world. The school remains dedicated to preparing compassionate, confident, and capable leaders ready to thrive in an ever-changing world. Go to FreeholdMontessori.com
Asbury Park Roastery shutters popular location
Those looking to perk up with a latte or hot cup of coffee while strolling the Asbury Boardwalk unfortunately now have one less spot to do so. Asbury Park Roastery’s location inside Convention Hall has closed its doors after spending more than a decade in that location. Their last cup of Joe was served Dec. 29. Fans of the Roastery can still get their morning fix by heading to the shop’s other location at 803 2nd Ave. in Asbury Park. This is the second boardwalk location to close for the Roastery, who at one point also operated a location on the south end of the boardwalk as well. Go to APRoastery.com.
Heirloom changes format at the St. Laurent
Heirloom, a destination for foodies and one of the most celebrated restaurants in Asbury Park, has announced that it will officially rebrand its concept. The space, which opened in 2022 at the St. Laurent Hotel, will relaunch under current owners Neilly Robinson and David Viana as an Italian restaurant known as Judy’s, while the bar will be known as Harry’s. Both spaces are named after Robinson’s mother and father respectively. The menu at Judy’s will offer “Italian classics with a whimsical international flair,” according to a recent social media post. For more info, go to JudyAndHarrys.com
Freehold Montessori Preschool
Wolf Fine Jewelers
EZ Docks Unlimited Marine Construction — Part of the Whole Puzzle
BY EMMA SYLVIA
EZ Docks Unlimited Marine Construction, based in Belford, NJ, is here for you every step of the way when designing and laying out your dock. When aiming to complete your next big project, they’re here to make the job both easy and perfect, while ensuring longevity for your enjoyment for years to come.
One such example of their work is the Colony House, an apartment complex in Red Bank. EZ Docks Unlimited Marine Construction was brought in to remove and replace the existing bulkhead that was nearing the end of its useful life, as well as build a high end 1,670 square-foot waterfront deck enabling the property to capitalize on and enhance its gorgeous waterfront view. The project was completed in August of 2024.
Eli Newman, the VP of Development at Signature Communities, who are the owner/operators of the Colony House, lauds EZ Docks’s involvement.
“This was a challenging job. It wasn’t a job for every contractor out there. It was tricky, there was existing drainage, grade changes and some tight spaces near neighboring properties that needed finesse.” Newman explains. “Rick [Hibell] and his team’s expertise and professionalism were critical to the success of the project. Additionally, we had zero complaints from our tenants about the work going on, which isn’t common. The entire EZ Docks team was a pleasure to work with.”
Newman goes on to highlight the property itself, including the massive upgrades that breathed new life into the building as well as adding many new amenities. “The waterfront amenity is unique as it has the best views of the Navesink Riv-
er, which is really maximized with the deck and new bulkhead. Our landscape designer Melillo Bauer, Carmen, designed it to be really something special – one of a kind. The breathtaking views, functionality, and tranquility – it all came together beautifully. It is gratifying to see our residents and their guests enjoying it – the granite and porcelain grill station, fire tables for cooler weather, chaise lounges, dining and entertaining furniture on the waterfront deck, dog park, hundreds of stunning plantings, a sound system, tons of seating and free wi-fi, of course. Interestingly, shortly after the space opened, we had a wedding group show up unannounced at the space to use the amenity for a photo shoot!”
Newman elaborates that EZ Docks’s work set the stage for them to be able to cultivate the potential of the space, calling the 13,000 square feet of visible space a “waterfront paradise”.
Rick Hibell, Founder and Operator at EZ Docks Unlimited Marine Construction, is proud of the work done at the Colony House. “We built it very heavy duty for years of use,” he says. “We were part of transforming the entire space with them, requiring barge work in the water and heavy equipment on land. It was a project you finished and went ‘wow.’ It’s nice to be connected to something like this. The bulkhead and the deck were the key to everything we did there. We don’t just build docks – we’re part of the whole puzzle.”
Interested in applying for available apartments? Visit www.colonyhouseredbank.com
To learn more about EZ Docks, visit www.ez-docks.com
Monmouth Conservation Foundation Debuts Conservation Wagon to Deliver Hands-On Environmental Education
Expanding on its successful Kids for Conservation Program, Monmouth Conservation Foundation (MCF), the county’s only nonprofit land trust, has announced the donation of the MCF Conservation Wagon by the Ray Catena Auto Group, Edison, N.J. for delivering environmental education programs throughout Monmouth County.
“Ray Catena has graciously funded the MCF Conservation Wagon – a Sprinter Cargo Van – allowing us to bring important conservation programming to students and residents of Monmouth County, with a particular emphasis on reaching our most underserved communities,” says MCF Executive Director William D. Kastning. “Topics will complement school lessons with activities that demonstrate the importance of green space and how each of us can create positive change and build hope for a sustainable future.”
Beginning in spring 2025, the new MCF Conservation Wagon will be available for community events, environmental fairs, and park and school visits throughout Monmouth County. Educational programming via the Conservation Wagon will align with MCF’s land preservation mission and include themes such as restoring biodiversity and ecosystem function, employing natural climate solutions, and taking individual action to create climate resiliency.
“We support organizations that focus on families and their well-being. This vehicle will support Monmouth Conservation Foundation’s environmental education initiative, which in turn benefits Monmouth County communities,” says Ray Catena.
Taking Education on the Road with the MCF Conservation Wagon
Prioritizing underserved communities, the MCF Conservation Wagon is envisioned to be a free service at qualifying schools, municipal parks, and community events, and, secondarily, available on a fee basis for arranged school visits, field
trips, and private events. MCF is currently looking for sponsors and underwriters to help carry out this vision.
MCF is partnering with Monmouth University to create a lesson plan framework focused on the importance of green space, natural climate solutions, and individual action to create climate resiliency. MCF’s new Director of Educational Outreach, Doug Caum, will design public-friendly educational materials, based on these preK-12 lesson plans that meet New Jersey state standards.
To help deliver the educational programming, Caum will develop an intern and docent program of Conservation Wagon ambassadors. Students and families will ultimately participate in activities that teach actions they can take in their own home or backyard to promote the health of our environment, and in turn, improve the quality of our air and water and emphasize overall well-being and sustainability for the community – via the Conservation Wagon.
Caum will also deliver experiential learning programs for New Jersey educators as part of MCF’s work as a sub-grantee on the Expanding Access to Climate Change Education and the New Jersey Student Learning Standards (NJSLS) through Climate Change Learning Collaboratives (CCLC) grant awarded in 2024 to Monmouth University by the New Jersey Department of Education.
Future programming will involve interactive opportunities at and relating to MCF’s Scudder Preserve. MCF took ownership of the 90-acre natural site in Middletown, NJ, in April 2024, with plans to restore the natural habitat, enhance public access, and offer a living laboratory for educational activities.
To learn more, go to www.monmouthconservation.org/ wagon
Monmouth Conservation Foundation
Editorial credit:
Photo by Marcella Shook Photography
BEAR of Monmouth Beach
ROXY of Monmouth Beach
BENJI and BUNNY of Monmouth Beach
Four-legged Fun! Barktastic
places to hang out with your pets this month and beyond
Convention Hall, Asbury Park — Love is in the air in Asbury Park, and Convention Hall is no different. This year, Friday, February 7 and Saturday, February 8, Asbury Park will be hosting their Valentine’s Bazaar. Bring your pet down to the pet-friendly Convention Hall for shopping, music, food, flowers, drinks and more! Wonder Bar, Asbury Park — Sometimes an evening out can only be improved with your dog by your side. This is a sentiment that Wonder Bar knows all too well. Customers are encouraged to bring their four-legged friend to Yappy Hour. With plenty of outdoor space, your dog can make new friends while you catch up with yours. Yappy Hour only operates when the weather cooperates, so check Wonder Bar’s Facebook page for updates in the Yappy Hour schedule. Wonder Bar is located at 1213 Ocean Ave N, Asbury Park. Wonderbarasburypark.com
Doggie Sweets Pet Cafe, Long Branch — Doggie Sweets is just the place to take your pup to spoil them for the day. Doggie Sweets’s specialty is their tasty dog treats, from frozen yogurt to baked goods. They host cafe events, so be sure to check their calendar to see if you can organize something special for your pup! They also host a food truck, allowing you to schedule them for parties and bring the festivities right to your dog! Located on 15 Morris Ave, Unit 119, Long Branch. doggiesweets.com
Birdsmouth Beer, Oceanport — An all-lager brewery located in The Commissary is dog friendly. Sit down for a beer in this cozy atmosphere, playing games with your friends and spending time with your leashed pet. Located at 674 Oceanport Way, Oceanport. birdsmouthbeer.com
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 pet 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. TheHungryPuppy.com.
The Jersey Shore Premium Outlets, Tinton Falls — Usually when you head to the mall, that 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
Why Professional Dog Grooming in Winter is Essential for Your Dog’s Health and Comfort
Winter can be tough on everyone, including your dog. While many pet owners focus on keeping their furry friends warm, grooming is often overlooked during the colder months. However, regular professional grooming is just as important in winter as it is in summer—perhaps even more so. Below, we explain why professional grooming in winter is essential for your dog’s health, comfort, and overall well-being.
Q: Why is professional grooming important for dogs during the winter months?
A: Winter brings unique challenges for your dog’s coat and skin. Cold, dry air can lead to flaky, itchy skin, while snow, ice, and road salt can irritate paws and fur. Professional grooming helps maintain a healthy coat, prevents matting caused by wet or snowy conditions, and ensures your dog’s skin stays moisturized and comfortable. Groomers can also clean and trim areas like the paw pads, which are particularly prone to collecting debris in winter.
Q: Doesn’t my dog need a thicker coat for warmth? Is grooming necessary?
A: While a dog’s coat provides natural insulation, regular grooming helps keep it in optimal condition for warmth. Matting and tangles can trap moisture, making your dog colder and more uncomfortable. Grooming removes loose fur, dirt, and debris, ensuring their coat functions as it should. A well-maintained coat provides better insulation and protection against the elements.
Q: How does grooming help protect my dog’s paws in winter?
A: Paws take a beating in winter from snow, ice, and road salt, which can cause cracking, irritation, or even cuts. Professional groomers can trim fur around the paw pads to prevent snow and ice buildup, apply protective balms, and ensure your dog’s paws are clean and healthy. Regular paw care reduces the risk of infections and keeps your dog comfortable during walks.
Q: What about bathing in winter? Won’t my dog get cold?
A: Bathing is still essential in winter, but it’s best to leave it to the professionals. Groomers use temperature-controlled water and drying techniques to ensure your dog stays warm and comfortable. Regular baths remove dirt, salt, and other winter irritants while moisturizing your dog’s skin, which is prone to dryness in colder months.
Q: Where can I find professional grooming services for my dog this winter?
A: Green Leaf Pet Resort in Oakhurst offers expert grooming services tailored to your dog’s needs. Our professional groomers use gentle techniques and high-quality products to keep your dog’s coat and skin healthy all winter long. From paw care to bathing and trimming, we’ll make sure your dog is cozy, clean, and comfortable.
Keep your furry friend healthy and happy this winter with regular professional grooming. Call Green Leaf Pet Resort at (732) 2720800 to schedule an appointment or visit greenleafpetresort.com/ oakhurst for more information. Give your dog the care they deserve this winter!
Pick
Dinner Show
Zone 1 (Colts Neck/Holmdel Area):
Dearborn Market
Pantano Home
Giannis (Colts Neck)
Colts Neck Pharmacy
Prima Pizza
Zone 2 (Rumson/Fair Haven Area):
Atlantic Eye (Little Silver)
Slices of Hope (Little Silver)
Shrewsbury Volkswagen
Shoprite (Shrewsbury)
Gianni’s (Red Bank)
Zone 3 (Jersey Shore Area):
Foodtown (Sea Girt)
Shoprite (Belmar)
Shoprite (Neptune)
Shoprite (West Long Branch)
Asbury Park City Hall
Zone 4 (Ocean Township Area):
Blue Swan
Sunset Diner
Gianni’s (Ocean)
All Seasons Diner
Atlantic Eye
Zone 5 (Middletown Area):
Shoprite (Middletown)
Booskerdoo (Middletown)
Foodtown (Atlantic Highlands)
picks for some fun nights out at
and restaurants this month
MONDAY, WEDNESDAY, FRIDAY and SATURDAY, all month long • 6 p.m.
Live music
Bar Anticipation, 703 16th Ave., Lake Como Bar-A.com
EVERY MONDAY (FEB. 3, 10, 17 and 24) • 7-10 p.m.
Pat Guadagno
Jamian’s Food and Drink, 79 Monmouth St., Red Bank JamiansFood.com
EVERY TUESDAY (FEB. 4, 11, 18 and 25) • 6 p.m. Irish Seisun
St. Stephen’s Green Publick House, RT 71, Spring Lake SSGPub.com
EVERY TUESDAY (FEB. 4, 11, 18 and 25) • ending at 10 p.m. Live music
Red Horse, 26 Ridge Road, Rumson (in the bar area) redhorsebydb.com
EVERY FRIDAY (FEB. 7, 14, 21, and 28) • 6 p.m. Live music
Atlantic Bagel Co (Atlantic Highlands)
Foodtown (Port Monmouth)
Brookdale’s Monmouth Museum
Zone 6 (Freehold Area):
Shoprite
Romeo’s Pizza
Manhattan Bagel
Rooney’s Oceanfront Restaurant, 100 Ocean Ave N., Long Branch RooneysOcean.com
FRIDAY, FEB. 14 • 5-8 p.m.
Charlie Brown
Deal Lake Bar + Co, 600 Main St., Loch Arbour DealLakeBarCo.com
SUNDAY, FEB. 16 • 7 p.m. (Doors at 6 p.m.)
Chris Pennella + 10-Piece Orchestra
Tim McLoone’s Supper Club, 1200 Ocean Ave., Asbury Park TimMcloonesSupperClub.com
THURSDAY, FEB. 20 • 8 p.m. (Doors at 7 p.m.)
High Fade
The Wonder Bar, 1213 Ocean Ave N, Asbury Park wonderbarasburypark.com
with
Staying Warm Indoor Activities
BY MAIA FRANCO
As we gravitate indoors during the cold winter weather, it can be challenging to keep children occupied and entertained on the weekends. If you are looking for indoor fun, for your kids or for the whole family, look no further!
Indoor Swimming
Winter is the perfect time to enroll kids in swim lessons and get some practice in before summer! Local swim schools include the YMCA in Red Bank, Goldfish Swim School in Middletown, and Five Star Swim School in Eatontown.
Ice Skating
There is no winter activity quite as nostalgic and quintessential as ice skating! Local ice rinks offering free skate include Jersey Shore Arena in Wall, Red Bank Armory, Middletown Ice Arena, and Howell Ice Arena.
Liberty Science Center
Looking to bring the family somewhere educational and fun? The Liberty Science Center in Jersey City has more than 20 exhibitions offering immersive educational experiences. Additionally, the Liberty Science Center is home to America’s largest planetarium! Admission to the center starts at $26 per child per day.
Indoor Trampoline Parks
With trampolines, jungle gyms, and ball pits, SkyZone in Tinton Falls and UrbanAir in Hazlet have hours of high-flying fun to offer. Check their daily schedules for prices and gym hours.
Bowling
Get the whole family together for some bowling fun! Whether you put the bumpers up or leave them lowered for
an extra challenge, bowling can provide a little bit of friendly competition for everyone!
Indoor Playgrounds
Jungle Jim and Jane in Atlantic Highlands offers arcade games, ball pit games, and climbing structures. Admission pricing for children ranges from $10-$20 per child, depending on a child’s age. An indoor playground offers a fun and warm environment to stay active!
iPlay America
Looking to bring out your competitive side? iPlay America in Freehold offers fun for the whole family. Visit iPlay America for laser tag, indoor mini roller coasters, arcade games, and more, and you can grab a bite at their new restaurant The Bistro afterwards.
Indoor Rock Climbing
Gravity Vault in Middletown has lessons and open gym sessions for children and adults. Learn to climb safely and belay your friends, all while getting in a subtle, full body strength training workout.
Color Me Mine/Time to Kiln
There is nothing like creating an art project that you can use at home. Color Me Mine in Freehold and Time to Kiln in Red Bank offer paintable pottery that can be picked up once fired. Both establishments offer appointments and parties for crafty kids and adults.
Library Storytime
For children four and under, check your local library’s website for storytime events! Having stories read at the library can promote literacy and increase socialization with other little ones.
The Gift of Healing
The Mission of Monmouth County’s Preferred Behavioral Health Group
BY EMMA SYLVIA
With 2025 just beginning, residents all over Monmouth County flock to make their New Year’s resolutions. There are the classics: Go to the gym (at least, for a week), finish that novel you’ve been pretending to write, or finally start that diet. However, regardless of the time of year, one resolution that everyone should aspire to should be taking care of your mental health. At least, that’s what the staff of Preferred Behavioral Health Group, and their CEO, Dr. Tara Chalakani, advocates for.
“There’s no dividing line on our body. We have to invest in our mental health as much as we do for our physical health,” Chalakani says.
Preferred Behavioral Health Group (PBHG) is a large nonprofit organization which serves the entire state of New Jersey. Dr. Chalakani, though, reaffirms its roots: “We serve the whole state, but our footprint and our history is in Monmouth County.”
With a physical presence in 14 New Jersey counties, PBHG’s hub is in Eatontown, with a larger physical presence down the Shore, and telehealth services across the rest of the state.
“We provide comprehensive mental healthcare for all ages across the lifespan with 70 programs,” Chalakani
notes. These programs include education for substance use, mental health, residential services, career services, as well as food pantries. “You name it – if it has anything to do with supporting someone’s mental health, we provide it.”
Chalakani herself is a psychologist with many years in the field, having begun in the healthcare space when she was 17 years old. “I love it. It’s a passion that’s fueled by the work that we do, to provide the gift of healing, hope and thriving to some of the most disenfranchised and traumatized people that we come across in our path.”
PBHG itself provides a plethora of out-patient services, which includes counseling, psychiatry, medication management and substance use services, all of which are funded by Monmouth County. Other work includes Prevention First, which has been providing services to Monmouth for more than 50 years. They work with CP&P (Child Protection and Permanency) to work with parents that need to achieve sobriety. Another program, Life Set, works with youth who are aging out of foster care so that they may have the necessary tools to flourish as adults. Additionally, the nonprofit provides mental health support and advocacy for local youth (their base is at Asbury Park High School), which helps students thrive in and outside of the school environment.
Recently, PBHG launched their NJ4S COMPASS program, a state-funded program provided in Ocean and Monmouth County. NJ4S – New Jersey Statewide Student Support Services – was highly publicized 18 months ago when it became available. PBHG expands on it with its COMPASS program, which provides mental health services, prevention, education, seminars and parental education to every K-12 school district and charter school in Monmouth County, with absolutely no cost to the school district (and every district is eligible, needing to just register with the state).
Dr. Chalakani elaborates on how COMPASS differs from other programs offered by PBHG. With it being funded by the state, COMPASS is provided state-wide. Other programs offered by PBHG are specific to certain school districts that are identified as being more at risk for violence or substance abuse; NJ4S has no limits. “The whole state has it,” Chalakani says. “We provide it in Monmouth County in every school.”
Beyond the launch of COMPASS, 2024 was a very busy and successful year for Preferred Behavioral Health Group. “Our organization as a whole was the recipient of a tremendous amount of recognition and awards,” Chalakani says.
Dr. Chalakani herself was named to the FORBES Nonprofit Council, awarded the NJAMHAA Transformative Leadership in Diversity, Equity, or Inclusion
Award, and was named the inaugural leader of Women Executives at FORBES Nonprofit Council. The PBHG staff was awarded greatly as well, with Nicole Dorrity being awarded in the Junior League of Monmouth County Women Who Make a Difference Award, and Valerie Ortense being named under the Phenomenal Women Under 40 by the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore.
“We do a lot of hard work,” Chalakani says. “It’s 24/7/365, and our staff shows up 100%. We’re passionate and dedicated to our mission – but it is hard work. When we get recognized, it’s a wonderful thing to experience. We’re not in it for that, but it’s nice to be noticed. We hope to continue this in 2025.”
Chalakani notes how the healthcare landscape has changed, with PBHG’s 48th anniversary approaching this May. “We have grown in leaps and bounds, in programming, in the numbers of lives that we’ve touched.” However, COVID changed the landscape dramatically. “I think one of the main takeaways is that people are more attentive to their mental health,” Chalakani notes. With people continuing to be impacted by the pandemic – whether it be due to the effects of long-COVID or being a child raised during quarantine – PBHG had to adapt to the times. “It changed how we engage with people,” Chalakani explains, which led to PBHG’s push to Telehealth.
“It’s an interesting challenge to face.
But as far as our organization in my tenure, I feel like I’m just very committed to creating a warm, family feel kind of environment. I see us all as a work family. We’re in this together.”
With PBHG being in this together, Chalakani acknowledges both their growth and the change that they continue to implement and aim for. PBHG and their CEO aim to eradicate the stigma attached to acquiring mental health services.
“None of us will leave this life without knowing or beholding someone struggling, whether it’s addiction or a mental health issue. And yet, there’s still so much hesitancy and shame and fear.” Chalakani compares mental health to a physical injury: “If you were cooking dinner and cut your finger, you wouldn’t hesitate to go get stitches. That’s what we’re doing, we’re really working to educate the public so that there is no hesitation to take care of your mental health.”
While Monmouth residents might have their own goals for the new year, so does PBHG. Their “soft, unspoken” mission? Becoming a household name. “We want to be the go-to for anyone,” Chalakani says, “whether it’s Monmouth, Ocean, or across the state. If you need help, you come to us.”
To learn more about Preferred Behavioral Health Group, head to PreferredBehavioral.org.
Childbirth options have expanded significantly in recent years, giving expectant parents a variety of choices based on personal preferences, health needs, and the type of experience they seek. Below, find an overview of some of the most common options, including home births, birthing centers, hospital births, and pain relief.
1. Home Births
A home birth typically involves delivering the baby at home with the assistance of a midwife and possibly a doula. It is generally preferred by families seeking a natural, low-intervention birth in a familiar environment. Philomena Doula Care in Red Bank, NJ can help expecting mothers prepare for their home birth.
PROS:
• Comfort of being at home.
• Less medical intervention.
• More control over the birth environment and experience.
• Emotional support from family and partners.
CONS:
• Limited medical support in case of emergencies.
• May not be an option for high-risk pregnancies.
• The need for careful planning, including having a licensed midwife and emergency protocols in place.
• Limited pain relief options, including breathing techniques, water immersion, massage, and hypnobirthing (a technique based on relaxation, visualization, and breathing exercises to manage pain without medication)
Comparing Childbirth Options
BY MAIA FRANCO
2. Birthing Centers
Birthing centers are designed to provide a middle ground between home births and hospital births. They often offer a more relaxed, home-like atmosphere, but with professional medical oversight, such as midwives, doulas, and some medical equipment. TRU Birth Center in Lakewood, NJ offers complete pregnancy and birth care through doctors and midwives.
PROS:
• Less medical intervention compared to hospitals.
• A more personalized, supportive environment.
• Continuity of care with midwives or doulas who are involved in prenatal, labor, and postpartum care.
• The possibility of water birth and other natural birthing options.
CONS:
• Not suitable for high-risk pregnancies.
• Some centers may not be equipped for complex medical situations or emergencies.
• Limited pain relief options compared to hospitals
3. Hospital Births
Hospital births are the most common choice and offer a medical setting with the availability of doctors, nurses, anesthesiologists, and specialized equipment. This is often the preferred option for high-risk pregnancies or women seeking access to more intensive medical care. Monmouth Medical Center has been awarded a high performing maternity hospital by US News in 2025.
PROS:
• Immediate access to medical care, including pain management and emergency interventions, such as c-sections.
• Access to a wide range of medical professionals, including obstetricians, neonatologists, and anesthesiologists.
• Option to choose between natural birth or an epidural.
CONS:
• More medical intervention
• Less control over the birth environment.
• Hospital policies and procedures may limit flexibility in the birth experience.
PAIN RELIEF — Hospitals offer a range of pain relief options:
• Epidural anesthesia: Provides pain relief during labor and delivery.
• IV pain relief: Medication can provide temporary pain relief.
• Nitrous oxide: Often available for pain relief in hospitals.
• Spinal block: Used for cesarean sections or other specific procedures.
• Natural methods: Hospitals can also support non-medical pain relief techniques like water immersion, breathing exercises, or massage.
• TENS Machine: A small device that uses electrical impulses to help with pain management. It’s used on the back or other parts of the body.
Ultimately, the choice of birthing option depends on the mother’s health, the pregnancy’s risk factors, and personal preferences. It’s crucial to discuss your options with a healthcare provider to ensure the safest and most comfortable experience for both mother and baby.
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
EVERY TUESDAY
Bingo at the Pig and Parrot Sandbar
Head down to the Pig and Parrot Sandbar every Tuesday for weekly bingo.
Pig and Parrot Sandbar
201 Union Lane, Brielle 7pm - 10pm
For more information, visit thepigandparrot.com
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1
The Tempest
Your last chance to see Two River Theater’s Little Shakespeare production of The Tempest.
Two River Theater 21 Bridge Ave, Red Bank
For more information, visit tworivertheater.org
Make Your Own Vision Board
Join Monmouth Beach Yoga and Wellness’s Krista Lynn to make your vision board for 2025 and manifest a great year for yourself.
Monmouth Beach Yoga and Wellness 36 Beach Road, Suite 10, Monmouth Beach 12:30pm - 2:30pm
For more information, visit mbyogaandwellness.com
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5
Wondrous Winter Walk at Manasquan Reservoir
Brave the cold and explore Manasquan Reservoir on this winter walk. Manasquan Reservoir
EVENTS CALENDARFebruary
311 Windeler Rd, Howell
10am - 11:30 am
For more information, visit monmouthcountyparks.com
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6
Open Mic Night at Twin Lights Brewing Join Twin Lights Brewing for their open mic night, featuring musicians, poets, and comedians.
For more information, visit twinlightsbrewing.com/events
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8
17th Annual Cupid’s Chase 5k
Visit Lake Como for their 17th annual Cupid’s Chase, with all attendees having the opportunity to fundraise for their community.
Lake Como, 1740 Main St, Lake Como 10am - 12pm
For more information, visit runsignup.com/Race/NJ/LakeComo/ CupidsChase5KLakeComo
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 9
Valentine’s Day Brunch with the MCSPCA
Celebrate your pet this Valentine’s Day with an auction and buffet brunch to benefit the MSPCA.
Navesink Country Club
50 Luffburrow Lane, Red Bank 11am - 2pm
For more information, visit monmouthcountyspca.org
MULTIPLE DATES, FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 23
Spring Lake Theatre’s The Prom
Join The Spring Lake Theatre for the hit, heartwarming comedy “The Prom”.
Spring Lake Theatre
300 Madison Ave, Spring Lake
For more information, visit springlaketheatre.com/current-season
MULTIPLE DATES, SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15 - SUNDAY MARCH 9
Two River Theater’s Dial M For Murder
Head to Two River Theater for their performances of the murder mystery play Dial M For Murder.
Two River Theater 21 Bridge Ave, Red Bank
For more information, tworivertheater.org/whats-on/ dial-m-for-murder/#dates-tickets
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15
Manasquan Beach Fun Run
Participate in the 21st Annual Manasquan Beach 2 Mile Fun Run/Walk, with donations welcome.
Leggetts Sand Bar
217 1st Ave, Manasquan 11am - 3pm
For more information, visit runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Manasquan/ ManasquanMidWinterBeachRunWalkParty
Max McNown at Asbury Lanes
Head to Asbury Lanes for live music featuring Max McNown. Asbury Lanes
209 4th Ave, Asbury Park 8pm
For more information, visit asburylanes.com
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20
High Fade at the Wonder Bar
Visit the Wonder Bar to see High Fade perform on their Life’s Too Fast Tour. Wonder Bar, 1213 Ocean Ave N, Asbury Park 8pm - 11:45pm
For more information, visit wonderbarasburypark.com
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21
Afternoon Victorian Tea
Enjoy full Victorian Afternoon Tea at Mathis House to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Mathis House, 600 Main St, Toms River 11am
For more information, visit mathishouse600main.com
A Browser’s Paradise
Asbury Book Cooperative becomes a nonprofit while remaining a staple of the community
BY EMMA SYLVIA
It’s easy to get lost in a bookstore, perusing the aisles until you practically have to get dragged away to prevent yourself from buying enough books to make your arms hurt. That’s just the experience you get, however, from Asbury Book Cooperative on Cookman Avenue in Asbury Park. Manager Michael Newton — a self-professed long-time reader and lover of bookstores himself —elaborates on the cooperative’s journey to becoming a local staple and its newly minted status as a nonprofit.
“When I was a young man, I would just go and get lost in a bookstore,” Newton says. After a career in publishing in New York, Newton transferred to New Jersey and began participating in used book sales and library sales. It was through this that he met Asbury
Book Cooperative ’s former manager, Jan Sparrow, and founder, Liza Minno-Bloom. Newton officially began working for Asbury Book Cooperative — which was formerly called “Words” — in February 2020.
“It was an interesting time,” Newton says. “It was right before lockdown happened. We had just gotten the co-op up and running and figuring out how to run a business during the pandemic.”
The community response, Newton says, is what allowed Asbury Book Cooperative to continue during the pandemic.
“We had a great response from the community. It showed us how invested people were in books and bookstores, and they were invested in helping us survive and thrive.”
In April 2022, Asbury Book Cooperative moved to a larger location on Cookman Avenue, and in May 2023, Newton became the General Manager.
While the terminology between a “co-op” and a “nonprofit” seems similar, there are distinct differences that make Asbury Book Cooperative’s new status worth celebrating.
“In terms of a mission, the status of a co-op and a nonprofit is similar in the sense that both are entities that are concerned with not just turning a profit, but having an impact in the community,” Newton explains.
However, a co-op has more taxes to pay than a nonprofit organization. A co-op’s revenue is also primarily derived from goods and services rather than donations. Newton elaborates on that technical side of the definition but is more excited about what he calls the exciting reason for becoming a nonprofit.
“For a long time, we have been fo -
cused on community. We would visit homes for the elderly with books, we would have book tables at public housing. We got a great response from that. We get to do the book drive during the holidays and the backpack drive during the summer. If we become a nonprofit, it allows us to focus on those things equally, as much as the store. In the coop days, we had to focus more on the store. We now have more freedom to not focus on profit; we can instead focus on community building and literacy building efforts.”
A true town bookstore (that
loves its town)
Asbury Book Cooperative incorporates Asbury Park’s DNA into their business strategy. The store is entwined with music, whether you head down to Springwood Park to see Asbury Book Cooperative’s free book table, or pop-in to the store itself for one of their free concerts.
“It’s a music town, and a performing town. A lot of smaller venues closed during the pandemic. This was a space where smaller acts had a place to play. It’s a great fit for the town – any time the store is busy and full of people, it benefits everyone.”
Newton says that when people come to a town to visit, they want to visit the shops downtown. He says, “We thought that in terms of the town, there should be a marquee bookstore that was an anchor to the whole town. I think being a nonprofit helps push us further in that direction. A key to a successful bookstore is to make the people feel like it’s part of the community.”
Jordan Hayes, the Events and Community Outreach Director of Asbury Book Cooperative, also lauds the community aspect of being a nonprofit on Cookman Avenue.
“My grandfather was one of the first Black doctors in the area, and my
great-grandma started a lot of programming in the 30s in the Asbury Park area. Monmouth’s in our blood — it’s amazing. To become a nonprofit means we have more opportunity to do more for the kids, families, and adults of all economic backgrounds. We’re very lucky to have this space and be on Cookman, bridging the gap between the west and east sides. We’re making it a community space that anyone can go to. I think that’s key – showing people that we’re together and we’re not separated,” Hayes says.
The community outreach to Asbury Book Cooperative is visible through its sheer number of volunteers. With more than fifty volunteers in total, it’s clear that folks in town are eager to support their local bookstore. “People just love books and reading, and they’re hungry to have spaces like that in our town,” Newton says. “It’s really gratifying. That community interest is what has allowed us to live through these years.” 2024 was a growth year for the nonprofit, with time spent on scheduling events. “We had a ton of concerts and readings. We were able to do something with the Stone Pony, too,” Hayes says.
In 2025, the nonprofit’s plan is to double down on these events, with more concerts and bigger author events.
But no matter how big the events get, for bookworms, the magical allure of a great bookstore such as this is as simple and pure as it’s ever been.
“We always say that Asbury Book Cooperative is a browser’s paradise, says Newton. “That’s what we try to be.
A place where people can come and get lost in the shelves for a while. It’s very restful and it spurs creativity. We want to be that place for people.”
To learn more about Asbury Book Cooperative or how to donate, visit AsburyBookCoop.org and follow them on Instagram at @asbury_book_cooperative
Planting Seeds of Inspiration in Bradley Beach
College Presenter Day gave Bradley Beach middle schoolers a glimpse of what’s possible when you dream big and work hard.
Editorial and photo credit: Bradley Beach Elementary School Facebook page
Sea Bright Fire Rescue Officers
Mayor Kelly had the honor of swearing in Sea Bright Fire Rescue’s Line Officers last month. Thank you to all of the Borough’s incredible first responders!
Editorial and Photo Credit: Borough of Sea Bright Facebook page
Belmar Woman’s Club Celebrates the Holidays
The Belmar Woman’s Club celebrated the the holiday season at La Dolce Vita on Ocean Ave. in Belmar. The club’s President, JoJo DeBenedictis toasted and wished everyone good health, happiness and peace in the world!
Credit: Belmar Woman’s Club Facebook page
Monmouth Beach EMS Celebrates
Monmouth Beach EMS held their annual year-end dinner celebration recently. The event was enjoyed by all, including current and past members, special guests, and their Charter Member, Peter “Booty” Mauro. The group sends out a special thank you to Oceanport EMS for covering the town that night so Monmouth Beach EMS members were able to celebrate together.
Student Successes
Kutztown University in Pennsylvania announced its list of 2,176 students on the Fall 2024 Dean’s List. These students achieved a minimum grade point average of 3.60 over at least 12 credits. The list included several Monmouth County students, including:
Gianna M. Dinardo of Red Bank
Sean Patrick Donnelly of Hazlet
Joseph Matthew Mulewski of Matawan
Amanda N. Stevenson of Hazlet
Do you want to send us a student success tip? Please e-mail to info@communitymagazinenj.com
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to Super Lawyers
ecord and the experience essively fi i ght to get you the maximum compensation for your personal injur y lawsuit.
For more than 75 years, Drazin and haw has worked tirelessly, treating y client like a member of the family ake sure they get the justice they ve. Clients matter. Results matter. t matters. When you need help, call in and Warshaw.
On Thin Ice: Slip and Fall Lawsuits During Winter Months
BY JUSTIN L. DRAZIN
Winter in New Jersey often brings icy sidewalks, snow-covered driveways, and slippery parking lots, creating hazardous conditions for pedestrians. Unfortunately, these conditions can lead to slip and fall accidents, often resulting in serious injuries such as fractures, head trauma, and back injuries. For victims seeking compensation, navigating a slip and fall lawsuit during the winter months presents unique challenges.
Common Causes of Winter Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents during winter are often caused by:
• Ice Accumulation: Freezing rain, melting snow, and re-freezing overnight can create invisible layers of ice, commonly known as “black ice.”
• Improper Snow Removal: Property owners may fail to clear walkways, driveways, and parking lots adequately, leaving behind dangerous conditions.
• Clogged or Poorly Maintained Drains: When water accumulates and freezes due to clogged drains, it can create icy patches in unexpected areas.
• Lack of Warning Signs: Businesses and property owners are required to warn visitors of hazards, such as wet floors or icy patches. A failure to do so can increase the risk of accidents.
Legal Responsibility of Property Owners
In New Jersey, property owners have a legal duty to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition to prevent injuries. This duty varies depending on the relationship between the property owner and the injured party:
• Invitees: Individuals invited onto the property for business purposes, such as customers, are owed the highest duty of care. Property owners must inspect for hazards and address them promptly.
• Licensees: Social guests are owed a moderate duty of care. Property owners must fix known hazards or provide warnings.
• Trespassers: Property owners owe limited duties to trespassers but cannot willfully create dangerous conditions.
During winter months, this duty often includes timely snow and ice removal and ensuring walkways are free of hazards. However, the law also accounts for practical limitations. For example, property owners are typically given a “reasonable” amount of time after a snowstorm to address hazardous conditions.
Challenges for Claimants in Winter Slip and Fall Lawsuits
1.
Proving Negligence
To succeed in a slip and fall lawsuit, a claimant must prove that the property owner was negligent. This involves showing that:
• The owner knew or should have known about the hazardous condition.
• The owner failed to take reasonable steps to remedy the condition.
• The hazardous condition directly caused the claimant’s injuries.
2. Weather-Related Defenses
Property owners often argue that winter weather conditions are “natural accumulations” for which they cannot be held liable. For instance, if an accident occurs during an ongoing snowstorm, the owner may claim they were not yet obligated to clear the property.
3. Comparative Negligence
New Jersey follows a comparative negligence rule, which reduces a claimant’s compensation if they are found partially at fault. For example, if a claimant was not wearing appropriate footwear for icy conditions, their money damages may be reduced.
4. Evidence Collection
Preserving evidence is critical in winter slip and fall cases. Claimants must document the accident scene promptly, as conditions can change quickly due to weather or property maintenance efforts. Photographs, witness statements, and weather reports are essential in proving liability.
Slip and fall lawsuits during New Jersey’s winter months are complex, requiring careful documentation and a clear understanding of the law. While property owners have a duty to maintain safe premises, claimants must navigate weather-related defenses and establish negligence to succeed in their claims. Consulting an experienced personal injury attorney is crucial for victims seeking to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Justin L. Drazin is a personal injury and medical malpractice attorney, representing clients throughout the State of New Jersey. He grew up in Fair Haven and passionately represents his clients, like family, as Drazin and Warshaw has done for three generations.
