LADACIN Network, a local nonprofit, proudly announced the success of their annual Plunge, held on Saturday, Jan. 13, marking the kickoff for their 75th Anniversary celebrations. Unfortunately, for the first time in 16 years, first responders prevented anyone from plunging due to emergency conditions from an active storm.
Although the streets of Manasquan were flooded on the morning of the event, hundreds of LADACIN supporters still came out to Leggetts Sand Bar where the event was hosted, some arriving by kayak, some rolling up their pants and wading through the water, and many dressed in creative costumes, showing their unwavering support of LADACIN, raising money to benefit individuals with disabilities. Contributing to the festive spirit of the occasion, the Pipes and Drums of the Jersey Shore Shillelagh Belmar, traditionally leading the procession to the ocean, played their bagpipes at the party. WRAT 95.9 radio’s DJ Gotts entertained party goers as the long-standing emcee of the LADACIN Plunge.
The event supports LADACIN’s educational, therapeutic, social, residential and support services for over 3,500 infants, children and adults with complex physical and developmental disabilities or delays living in Monmouth and Ocean Counties.
Despite the days many challenges, this year’s event raised over $77,000. All proceeds from the event support the J. Michael Hartnett Memorial to benefit LADACIN Network. Since the inaugural Plunge 16 years ago, the annual event has raised over $1.3 million. Over the past several years, proceeds have helped fund vital programs and services provided to individuals with disabilities.
Joseph J. Russell, Jr., Esq., of Manasquan, Shareholder and Chair of the Family Law Department at Wilentz, Goldman & Spitzer P. A., Eatontown, and Woodbridge, founded and continues to coordinate the event, along with his wife, Jeanette Russell, Esq. Joseph’s cousin, Elizabeth Hartnett, is a client of LADACIN Network, and has inspired his involvement in supporting the Agency. Elizabeth’s father, J. Michael Hartnett, was a long-time Agency Board member and advocate for people with disabilities.
To learn more about LADACIN Network and their upcoming events, visit www.ladacin.org or email directorofdevelopment@ladacin.org
Turning Point’s 26th location is now open in Ocean Township. This flagship store includes a full-service restaurant along with their first ever banquet space. The second floor will be home to their corporate office headquarters and franchisor training facility.
Turning Point is a daytime restaurant that is open 7 days a week, from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The eatery specializes in unique breakfast, brunch and lunch offerings, along with premium regional coffees and a variety of seasonal menu specials served in a relaxed environment that feels like home. Catering and takeout options are also available.
The new location is located at 1605 Rt. 35 in Ocean Township.
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Since its inception in 1974, the Stone Pony rose from a regional hot spot for live music at the Jersey Shore to a nightclub with national and eventually international name recognition.
It is about as iconic as a local music venue gets in terms of trademark recognition by concert-going road warriors worldwide, many of whom could at very least connect the club to its hometown of Asbury Park without having ever set foot inside.
Founded by business partners Jack Roig and Butch Pielka, and having survived a history as turbulent as Asbury Park’s itself, the Stone Pony will celebrate the 50th anniversary of its origination throughout 2024. A kickoff to the yearlong celebration happened last month when the Stone Pony’s original house band, Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes, performed two shows there.
“The average lifespan of a venue is less than 10 years, so the Stone Pony to have made it to its 50th anniversary, and to have evolved into such a successful business, is a major milestone,” says Kyle Brendle, who has been the Stone
Pony’s house promoter and booking agent since the mid1980s. “We plan to have the 50th anniversary celebration all year long. We’re going to have special shows, special weekends, special events – all kinds of highlights all year long to commemorate what is widely recognized as one of the most iconic music clubs in the nation.”
According to a history timeline on the Pony’s website ( StonePonyOnline.com), “Southside” Johnny Lyon and “Miami” Steve Van Zandt were part of an uber-talented, horn-driven local group c alled the Blackberry Booze Band, which later morphed into Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes. Their large local fanbase and virtuoso musicianship earned them houseb and status, and helped pave the way for The Stone Pony’s stage to become a place where other up-and-coming musicians sought out to play.
“Right off the bat, the Pony was just a place with great bands and great musicians,” says Brendle. “The owners were r ight on that in seeking out and bringing in exceptional talent, and that has been the Pony’s trademark for years, throughout its history.”
Van Zandt and Lyon both had close personal ties to Bruce Springsteen, who was a lready an established presence – having released the albums “Greetings from Asbury Park, N.J.” and “The Wild, the Innocent & the E Street Shuffle” – prior to t he Pony’s coming online. That rapport among friends, bolstered by Van Zandt’s jumping from the Jukes to join the E S treet Band on tour, gave way to the start of several impromptu appearances at The Stone Pony by Springsteen, who would essentially just show up and jam with other bands onstage.
Those unplanned Springsteen jams helped shoot the Pony’s mystique into the
stratosphere. Many up-and-coming acts wanted to play there due to its famous connection, and many more show-goers flocked to the venue hoping to hit the lottery and witness a jam session with their f avorite local son in the most intimate of settings.
“The plan is to include a lot of the vintage bands and artists who were here b ack in the day,” says Brendle, who started working at the Pony in ’80s while still a s tudent at Stockton State College (now University). “The Jukes returned for two shows in February to help us celebrate, and we’re hoping for lots more bells and whistles throughout the year.”
The list of major names that have played at the Stone Pony is staggering, although in many cases the acts were still a long way away from major celebrity status, including future Garden State superstar Jon Bon Jovi. Others that performed at the Pony include Stevie Ray Vaughn, Elvis Costello, The Ramones, Cheap Trick, B londie, The Stray Cats, Meatloaf, Todd Rundgren, Jimmy Cliff, Joan Jett, Blue Oyster Cult, Gregg Allman, Dickie Betts, Ace Frehley, Levon Helm, Johnny Win -
ter, Vanilla Fudge, Dion, Ronnie Spector, t he Smithereens, and Van Morrison, who loved the Pony’s vibe so much he shot a music video there.
“As a teenage rock fan growing up in the mid-’70s in Central Jersey, I was always fascinated by the many great musical artists and music venues that came from New Jersey, and the Stone Pony had always stood out as the most iconic venue here,” says Rich Kubicz, founder/lead s inger and rhythm guitarist for the Tom Petty tribute band Damn the Torpedoes, which performed a sold-out show as part of the 50th anniversary celebration in January. “The Pony has hosted numerous local icons, and numerous national acts, and in many cases, local icons that became national and worldwide acts.
“ Its location is also just perfect for a New Jersey venue – right in the heart of the Jersey Shore where people come to have a great time,” adds Kubicz.
For several years, from May through October, the Stone Pony has hosted its Summer Stage series of concerts on the Asbury Park beach.
While the 2024 lineup is still a work in progress, one major act already booked is O.A.R., a five-man rock band that formed in 1996 in Rockville, Maryland, and has been hailed for being among the most exciting bands in the nation to see live. O.A.R. (short for Of A Revolution) plays The Stone Pony’s outdoor stage on July 19.
“Music is a matter of personal taste and personal opinion, and people are willing to travel to see their favorite bands,” says Brendle.
“Asbury Park has come alive again and we love being part of all that. The beachfront is happening, there’s tons of arts, entertainment and nightlife, people investing in homes and the c ommunity.
“It’s much more of a destination again,” he adds. “I love the fact that the Pony is still here to be part of it, and hopefully it will be for the next 50 years.”
The Stone Pony
913 Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park 732-502-0600
StonePonyOnline.com
With St. Paddy’s Day right around the corner, Monmouth County is gearing up to celebrate in a big way. But even if you aren’t planning on attending any of the fabulous parades, there is a good chance you may be looking for a fun Irish pub or restaurant to partake in the festivities. Here are a few of the best spots guaranteed to keep your Irish eyes smiling.
St. Stephen’s Green (Spring Lake) Arguably the most authentic Irish Pub in all of New Jersey, St. Stephen’s Green Publick House is a gloriously warm and welcoming place to grab a pint and a plate of bangers and mash. The dark, elaborately crafted woodwork and soft lighting help to create an enchanting atmosphere that is absolutely dripping with Celtic charm. Live bands are the norm here, including the highly festive and utterly authentic Irish group, The Bantry Boys, who never fail to bring the cheerful vibe to a level of near exhuberance. A word of caution though – on
St. Patrick’s Day, St Stephen’s Green can be PACKED. So, if you are a fan of the crowds and energy of the holiday, have at it. If not, plan your visit for the weekend before to take in everything in a slightly less chaotic state. SSGPUB. com
Kelly’s (Neptune) Operating in its present location since 1959, Kelly’s Tavern has become a true icon of the Jersey Shore. This staple of the Neptune City nightlife scene features visual tributes to the owner’s Irish heritage all around, including the large, hand-painted ancestral map of Ireland, which covers the ceiling above their massive main bar. The menu skews more towards standard pub grub – don’t sleep on the grilled buffalo wings by the way – but those looking for Emerald Isle-themed munchies will do well with the corned beef platter, which is served with boiled cabbage and potatoes; the Irish potato soup or the Guinness Burger, which comes topped with cheddar cheese,
caramelized Guinness onions and cabbage. K ellysTavernJerseyShore.com
McDonagh’s Pub (Keyport) A quote ion the wall at Mc Donagh’s reads: “The soul of Ireland right in the heart of Keyport.” And that pretty much sums it up. If the gorgeous red exterior wasn’t eye-catching enough to make you march right in, the fabulous menu of bar food and Irish-themed favorites such as fish and chips, shepherd’s pie and the fabulous corned beef eggrolls should be enough to do the trick. Add to that an impressive selection of beers on tap and signature cocktails and you have reason to dance a jog right on the spot. McDonaghs.com
The Dublin House Restaurant & Pub ( Red Bank) Located smack dab in the middle of Red Bank’s bustling downtown, The Dublin House has been a popular watering hole for years. Its exterior entrance is notable with its massive white pillars that are outside
the norm from what you might expect from a typical Irish bar. Inside is cozy and offers the perfect spot to settle in for a night of laughter and good times with friends. The menu is dotted with Irish creations like shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash, corned beef as well as some decidedly non-Irish offerings such as jambalaya or penne vodka), but our St. Paddy’s Day pick is the Irish Surf and Turf, a sampling of bangers and mash, fish and chips and shepherd’s pie served with tartar sauce and onion au jus. TheDublinHouse.co
The Black Swan Public House (Asbury Park) – Located in the space that formerly housed Modine, Chef James Avery’s Black Swan Public House is an utterly enchanting space inspired by the neighborhood pubs and inns often found in England and Ireland. As you wander through it, surprises pop up around every corner – a breathtaking main bar with ornate flowers and branchwork quickly twists over to a downright dainty tea room, while the main dining room with its high ceilings has an almost NYC trendiness to it that fits in perfectly in Asbury Park. And the masculine coziness of the vault room in the back simply must be seen in person to be fully appreciated.
The menu boasts many a UK favorite, including a fabulous chicken tika masala - an Indian-inspired dish created in England – but if we had to choose just one dish, it would be the unforgettable shepherd’s pie, a divine mix of ground beef, lamb, peas and carrots topped with mashed potatoes, all of which pairs perfectly with a cheerfully raised pint of Harp. TheBlackSwanAP.com
One of the fun things about celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in New Jersey is that you don’t have to confine your revelry to just one day. Although the holiday itself falls on March 17, many municipalities within Monmouth County choose to celebrate with parades and events all month long, which gives everyone here at the shore multiple chances to honor their proud Irish heritage (or pretend Irish heritage, as the case may be).
Below are the 2024 dates for some of the best St. Paddy’s Day celebrations throughout Monmouth County.
Belmar St. Patrick’s Day Parade – 12:30 p.m. Sunday, March 3, Belmar
Middletown Public Library hosts The Cook College Ramblers – 2 p.m. Saturday, March 9, Middletown
Asbury Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade – 1 p.m. Sunday, March 10, Asbury Park
Rumson St. Patrick’s Day Parade – 1 p.m. Sunday, March 10, Rumson
The Chubby Pickle hosts ShamRocks – a St. Patrick’s Day Showdown – 5 p.m. Saturday, March 16, Atlantic Highlands
Freehold St. Patrick’s Day Parade – 12:30 p.m. Sunday, March 17, Freehold
Freehold Irish Week – Various times and events, including a pub crawl and “Flavor of Freehold Shamrock Pass,” March 12-17. For more info, go to DowntownFreehold.com.
Highlands St. Patrick’s Day Parade – 2 p.m. Saturday, March 23, Highlands
And, although the parades themselves are the main attraction in each town that celebrates, you would be missing out on half the fun if you didn’t visit some of the local bars and restaurants in town for their own parties both before and after the parades. They are sure to be as festive and full of good cheer as the parades themselves, but with the additional bonus of Irisht hemed food and drinks!
In February, the Daughters of Ireland, a non-profit organization in New Jersey, announced the expansion with a new chapter in Monmouth County. The organization is a social and philanthropic non-profit that offers women who live and work in Monmouth County an opportunity to come together to cultivate friendships through civic projects and commitment to giving back to their communities, while honoring the Irish heritage that unites them.
Founding President Jessica Shea-Brown brought the chapter to Monmouth County after seeing firsthand the impact that the founding chapter in Union County had on its members and their community. Founded in 2017, the Union County chapter has served businesses, organizations and communities throughout their county with initiatives like toy drives, food drives, and blood drives, and has raised over $46,000 in scholarships for Union County students.
“As one of the more than one million New Jersey residents of Irish descent, I was inspired by the work being done in Union County and saw a need for the same opportunity for women in Monmouth County to give back while building connections with likeminded women,” said Shea-Brown. “When we had over 50 women attend
our initial interest meeting, I knew this was the start of something impactful.”
With its first official meeting under its belt and more than 50 members committed to the organization in less than a month, the Monmouth County Daughters of Ireland are hitting the ground running as a new non-profit. They will be making their first appearances at two parades this year: the Rumson St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Sunday, March 10th and the Highlands St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Saturday, March 23rd.
The organization meets monthly at different locations throughout the county to connect women and identify service projects, fundraisers and social events. The founding executive board includes six members: President Jessica Shea-Brown, Vice President Lorna Darcy O’Hara, Secretary Maureen Voccola, Treasurer Tricia Sirico, Communications Strategist Stacey Cooney and Sergeant at Arms Cathy Ryan.
Women interested in learning more about becoming a member can follow the organization on Facebook at Monmouth County Daughters of Ireland or Instagram @daughtersofireland_mc.
ZONE 1
Colts Neck • Holmdel • Lincroft
ZONE 2
Fair Haven • Little Silver
Oceanport • Rumson
Shrewsbury • Red Bank • Sea Bright
ZONE 3
Allenhurst • Asbury Park
Avon by the Sea • Belmar
Bradley Beach • Deal
Lake Como • Loch Arbour
Long Branch• Monmouth Beach
ZONE 4
Eatontown • Ocean Township
ZONE 5
Atlantic Highlands • Hazlet
Highlands • Keansburg
Keyport • Aberdeen
Matawan • Middletown
ZONE 6
Freehold Township
Freehold Borough • Howell
A Statement from Asbury Park Mayor & Council:
When summertime fun becomes not so fun for your pet, we’re here for you. 24/7/365
As City of Asbury Park Mayor & Council, we extend our deepest condolences to Bruce Springsteen and his family on the passing of his mother, Adele Zerilli Springsteen. Our thoughts are with the Springsteens during this challenging time, and we wish them peace.
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The Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners recently congratulated the students, staff and administration of the Monmouth County Vocational School District’s (MCVSD) High Technology High School, the Academy of Allied Health and Science, Biotechnology High School, Marine Academy of Science and Technology, and Communications High School for being rated as five of the highest scoring high schools in the state according to the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE).
“The MCVSD is once again leading the way when it comes to high quality education with High Technology receiving the highest score according to the NJDOE and Academy of Allied Health and Science and Biotechnology High School scoring second and fifth highest respectively,” said Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone. “In addition, the Marine Academy of Science and Technology (MAST) and Communications High School rated among the top 15. I want to congratulate the students, staff, parents and administration for earning this massive accomplishment.”
shared Eileen Chapman, City of Asbury Park Councilmember and Director, Bruce Springsteen Archives and Center for American Music at Monmouth University, “We recognize the special place Asbury Park holds in their hearts, as a backdrop for many happy memories—from concerts in our music venues to dancing at the Wonder Bar. May these cherished moments bring solace and comfort to the Springsteens during this period of loss.”
“Adele’s spirt will undoubtedly live on in the hearts she touched,”
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“Having five of our County Vocational Schools receive scores in the top 15 of the NJDOE ratings is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the staff, students, parents and administrators,” said Commissioner Deputy Director Nick DiRocco, liaison to the MCVSD. “Congratulations to all of the schools for this incredible feat and thank you for representing Monmouth County so well.”
The NJDOE rated every high school’s performance based on test results, graduation rates and other contributing factors. The MCVSD prepares students for an evolving workplace, lifelong learning and further education through specialized academics, career and technical programs and achievement of the New Jersey Student Learning Standards.
Congratulations to Fire Chief Steven Hudson, who was presented with a plaque for his service in 2023, and best wishes to the new Chiefs of 2024 – Department Chief Nicholas Lorusso, 1st Assistant Chief Sean Pringle, and 2nd Assistant Chief Robert Pollock. Their commitment to protecting Belmar is truly commendable.
To learn more about the MCVSD, visit www.visitmonmouth.com. To learn more about the NJDOE ratings, go to www.rc.doe.state.nj.us.
(Photo Credit: Borough of Belmar)
Just about everyone loves a round of apps. From potato skins to mozzarella sticks to crab rangoon, the stuff that comes to table to kick off the meal often ends up being even better than the main course. But perhaps no app has developed a following as loyal as the mighty buffalo wing. And with a fanbase as passionate as this, everyone seems to have a strong opinion on which local bar or restaurant makes them the best.
Is there a right answer to the question of whose wings reign supreme? Of course not, but that’s also what makes debating it so much fun. While there is never a clear winner, there are a few names that seem to be mentioned over and over again whenever the topic of great wings in Monmouth County is brought up. So, if you are looking to satisfy that craving, here are some of the top spots in the area:
The Court Jester (Freehold and Aberdeen)
The Court Jester has two locations in Monmouth County and has been known for having some of the best wings at the Jersey Shore for decades. Their signature sweet/spicy sauce that slathers each wing is unique when compared to the more traditional Frank’s Red Hot-based buffalo sauces you’ll find at most pubs, and it truly has a taste we have not seen replicated anywhere else. Wing purists may take issue with the fact the wings at The Jester are breaded (a classic buffalo wing is generally deep fried in its natural state with no breading), but the breading actually helps the sauce adhere to them, and the flavor is so good on these, you would be silly to pass them up. Bonus points for the homemade blue cheese they are served with. CourtJesterNJ.com
The Chapter House in Howell has a spacious bar up front and a super cozy and wonderfully rustic dining room in the back. Perhaps the most classic option on this list, they offer up a wing that is of exceptional quality and flavor. Crispy and meaty, without being too large (yes, a wing can be too large. Large wings are rarely crispy enough.) Sauce options here include buffalo, garlic parm, barbeque and sweet chili and are available in single and double orders. ChapterHouseNJ.com
If you haven’t been to this quintessential Belmar bar, we’re not sure why, but you should change that immediately. A great spot whether you are stopping in for a bite or coming to rock out to one of the many live bands they offer on the weekends, The Boathouse always makes for a fun and memorable night out. The wings here are memorable too, and you can get them fried or grilled. With more than 20 sauces and five dry rubs to choose from, the options are enough to make your head spin (in a good way). Our pick is the Fat Foley – an incredibly decadent combo of hot sauce, garlic and blue cheese that hits the spot every time. BoathouseBarAndGrill.com
10 th Ave Burrito Co . (Belmar) – Who orders wings at a Mexican restaurant? We do. And so does anybody in the know that heads to 10 th Avenue Burrito Co for a bite and a margarita. The wings here get deep-fried, glazed with sauce and then tossed on the grill, which results in a gloriously smoky char on top of the already crispy skin. The buffalo flavor is fab, as is the sweet chili and they even have a General Tso’s wing should you be in the mood for a bit of Asian flair (sticking to old fashioned Mexican traditions has never been a priority here). Each order of wings comes with a side of avocado ranch dressing. Pro tip – ask for an additional side of their adobo sauce and mix it in with the avocado ranch for a kicked-up combo you’ll be craving every time. TenthAveBurrito.com
Local Smoke BBQ (Red Bank, Neptune, Sea Girt and Monmouth Park) – Local Smoke has expanded throughout Monmouth County over the last decade or so and has become a go-to for lovers of brisket, ribs, pulled pork and other wonderfully smoky meats. But if you have overlooked the wings every time you have gone, you’ve been missing out. Local Smoke’s wings are slow-smoked then flash fried, producing a one-of-a-kind flavor that easily earns them their spot on this list. You’ll have the option to choose from sauces such as the classic buffalo, barbeque, spicy barbeque, garlic parm or sweet chili. Pair it with a side of their killer smoked bacon poppers (jalapenos stuffed with cream cheese and pulled pork which are then wrapped in bacon and slow smoked) and thank us later. localsmokebbq.com
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On Saturday, December 16 , the Boys & Girls Club of Asbury Park hosted the 2023 “Wishing On A Star” Community Christmas Festival. The annual event is sponsored by the Monmouth County Police Chiefs Association & Pilgrim Baptist Church (PBC) of Red Bank. Over 300 guests from the Asbury Park community were treated to lunch, entertainment, storytelling and the arrival of Santa Claus. Christmas gifts were distributed to all children and families who attended.
This year’s Festival partners included: Asbury Park Police & Fire Dept., PBC Community Outreach & Compassion Team, Monmouth County Police Chiefs Association Volunteers, Boys & Girls Club Staff, Jersey Shore Rescue Mission Staff, PBC Men’s Team and PBC Security Team. For further information about the community initiatives of Pilgrim or the Chiefs Association, please call: 2343 -747 -732 .
FREEHOLD, NJ – The Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners, in partnership with the Monmouth County Planning Board, presented seven organizations with 2023 Merit Awards during the Planning Board meeting held on Dec. 18. The 2023 Monmouth County Merit Awards were presented to:
City of Asbury Park Arts and Culture Plan
Category: Creativity and Innovation
The Asbury Park Arts and Culture Plan, created during a one-year period starting in August 2022, is the result of collaboration between the City of Asbury Park and the nonprofit Asbury Park Arts Council.
The Arts and Culture Plan received a resolution of support from the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners and was adopted unanimously by the City’s Planning Board on Aug. 21, 2023 as an amendment to the City’s Master Plan.
Category: Creativity and Innovation
The Half Mile of Horses Art Walk project involves painted horse sculptures decorating Main Street in downtown Freehold Borough, honoring the equine heritage of Freehold Borough (home to Freehold Raceway, the oldest half-mile horse racing track in the United States).
The Neighborhood Preservation Program funded the program, which was implemented by Freehold Borough and the Historic Preservation Commission. Artists from throughout the State and Monmouth County submitted designs.
The Boys and Girls Club of Monmouth County – Wellness Garden
Category: Creativity and Innovation
The Boys and Girls Club of Monmouth County, in partnership with landscape architect Eleanor James of Sparrow and Bramble, developed a wellness garden across from the Asbury Park location. The land was donated by long-time supporter Vince Gifford and is planned to be a community space for Asbury Park and the Boys and Girls Club.
Neptune Township – Shark River Living Shoreline
Category: Environmental, Resilience, Sustainability and Regeneration
With funding and/or in-kind services provided by the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency and Neptune Township, Neptune with the American Littoral Society and a suite of partners (Avakian Engineering, Albert Marine and Stockton University) worked together to restore 2,050 linear feet of shoreline at the Shark River Inlet, creating beach, reef sill, marsh and berm habitat that provides improved resiliency
for the natural and human-built communities.
In addition, stormwater outfalls were replaced and affixed with tide valves to reduce periodicity of flooding and better treat stormwater runoff.
SFC Enterprises Inc. – Marlboro Medical Arts Building
Category: Development and Redevelopment
The Marlboro Medical Arts Building C is part of a medical development project in Monmouth County developed by SFC Enterprises Inc. This construction project, consisting of 5 acres, is a state-of-the-art medical complex which includes three buildings.
The planning objective was to develop a necessary missing need in the community to deliver quality medical care with a convenient stop for all medical needs. The complex consists of urgent care, physical therapy, dermatology, neurology and a pharmacy. Building C, which was completed in September 2023, was phase three of the project.
The Rail at Red Bank
Category: Development and Redevelopment
The Rail at Red Bank demonstrates imaginative planning in Monmouth County. The central idea is to provide the ultimate experience of live, work and play with the convenience of restaurants, boutiques, night life and the Red Bank train station all within walking distance.
The Rail at Red Bank brings 57 luxury apartments and more than 6,500 square feet of retail space to the corner of Chestnut Street and Bridge Avenue. Community amenities include fireplaces with seating areas, outdoor televisions and grills, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a yoga studio, a club room with desks and a kitchen area, a game room, a community dog wash and storage units.
Suneagles Golf Club – Historic Preservation and Construction of New Community
Category: Historic Preservation and Restoration
Suneagles, which opened in 1926, is a historic golf course designed by A.W. Tillinghast. In 1942, the U.S. Army purchased the golf course and incorporated it into Fort Monmouth.
Following the closure of Fort Monmouth, the Martelli Development Group purchased the golf course and the clubhouse. The firm demolished the former officer housing buildings and received approval from the Fort Monmouth Economic Revitalization Authority and the Borough of Eatontown to construct 75 residential units, with renovation and restoration of the clubhouse to its former glory. All new roads, utilities and significant golf course upgrades were constructed.
For the first time since the 1977 season, the Bradley Beach Elementary School girls basketball team reached a final in the Monmouth County Athletic League National Division title game. The Seagulls (the new mascot name (old-Breakers) ended the season with a record of 2-12 with a tough loss to Brielle. Congratulations on a great year for the girls! (Photo credit – Borough of Bradley Beach)
For the second time in 3 years, the Mayor and Commissioners had the pleasure of recognizing Monmouth Beach EMS for a statewide achievement award. The local squad was chosen once again as NJ State First Aid Council Squad of the Year. Congratulations to the group for their well-deserved acknowledgment. (Photo credit: Borough of Monmouth Beach)
The Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners would like to congratulate Connor Kane of Asbury Park for winning the second annual Monmouth County Travel Guide photo contest with his photo of surfers in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Asbury Park.
“Monmouth County is known for its beautiful destinations along the shore and on behalf of the Board of County Commissioners, we would like to congratulate Connor Kane for winning the second annual Monmouth County Travel Guide photo contest,” said Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone,
liaison to the Division of Tourism.
“Connor’s photo captures one of the many ways residents and visitors can enjoy Monmouth County. We are excited to have his photo published as the cover of the 2024 Travel Guide and we thank everyone who submitted photos for the contest.”
As runners-up, John Entwistle, who submitted a photo of the Bradley Beach fireworks, and Kate Watt, who submitted a photo of the Manasquan Inlet jetty, will have their photos published within the 2024 Travel Guide.
Fulfill today handed over the keys to five brand new 2023 Ram ProMaster\® vans that will enable pantry operators to complete larger and more frequent retail food pick-ups, reducing the need for retailers to dispose of excess, wholesome food. The van purchases were made possible through a New Jersey Food & Hunger Grant.
Over the past six months, Fulfill and its network of partner pantries have been distributing enough food for approximately 1.3 million meals per month. Pantry utilization in Monmouth and Ocean counties has more than doubled since pre-pandemic levels, and remains at an all-time high, up 30% over last year. In 2023, Fulfill and its network of local distribution agencies distributed more than 17.1 million pounds of food, compared to 3 million pounds in 2001, when the nonprofit organization first moved into its current warehouse.
The five pantries that are now equipped with vans have also been matched with nearby food retailers, allowing them to coordinate larger and more frequent food pick-ups. This ensures excess food leaves the retailers and makes it to the food pantries, while helping to close the gap on the demand for produce, frozen foods, meats and fresh bakery items.
“During these times of prolonged demand, we can leave nothing on the table,” said Triada Stampas, President & CEO of Fulfill. “These van donations are a win-win: Our pantry partners need reliable vehicles to be able to bring in good food on a regular basis, and local retailers are able to donate more wholesome food rather than adding to our waste stream. We appreciate the support of the State of New Jersey and particularly that of Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin, who understands the complexities surrounding the growing demands on food banks and pantries across our region and the state.”
The five food pantries receiving vans are:
Freehold Area Open Door Pantry – Freehold
Faith Community Food Pantry – Bayville
St. Brigid’s Pantry and Kitchen at St. James Episcopal Church – Long Branch
Jackson Women of Today Food Pantry – Jackson
St. Luke’s Toms River Food Pantry – Toms River
“I am thrilled to take part in this event that equips these five pantries with better transportation vehicles, enabling them to do more, efficiently, in picking up and delivering greater supplies of excess retail food,” said Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin. “I am committed to supporting the food banks and pantries that are helping New Jersey’s families and individuals access what they need to be successful.”
In total, Fulfill has approximately 300 network partners covering Monmouth and Ocean counties. The five partners receiving vans were selected based on their ability to successfully participate in Fulfill’s Enabled Agency Program, their capacity to receive and distribute a higher volume of donated food, and their proximity to retail partners. Fulfill’s retail partners are:
Aldi locations in Forked River, Freehold, Howell and West
Long Branch
BJ’s in Howell
Costco in Morganville
ShopRite locations in Bayville and Long Branch
Stop & Shop locations in Jackson, Howell and Whiting
Target locations in Eatontown, Howell and Manalapan
Trader Joe’s in Freehold
Walmart in Howell
Wegmans in Manalapan
Whole Foods in Marlboro
The vehicle grants represent a major investment in supporting a strong pantry network, which is core to Fulfill’s strategy to build food security in Monmouth and Ocean Counties. Fulfill has made grants to its pantry partners in response to their capacity needs since 2013.
“Our strategic plan calls for us to increase our warehouse capacity and we will undertake a capital campaign to help us meet this fundraising goal,” said Stampas. “The community need for food keeps growing and we must be in a position to keep up with the demand. A larger warehouse with more storage for fresh produce and meats will enable us to provide more diverse food offerings that are critical aspects of healthy diets.”
In a remarkable display of unity and generosity, Impact 100 Jersey Coast celebrated its eighth year of empowering women to make a difference in their community. The giving collective, consisting of over 400 local women, gathered at The Vogel in Red Bank on Giving Tuesday, marking the culmination of a six-month grant application and selection process.
Impact 100 Jersey Coast announced the allocation of four $100,000 grants and six Mission Awards of $1,600 each to local nonprofit organizations. The grants were awarded to 180 Turning Lives Around, KYDS Konscious Youth Development & Service, Mercy Center, and Lunch Break. Additionally, Mission Awards were granted to Asbury Park Music Foundation, InfoAge Science and History Museum, OCEANS Family Success Center, LADACIN Network, Mental Health Association of Monmouth County, and Trinity Church.
Anne Yeh, Grants Co-Chair, expressed gratitude for the inspiring work of the organizations that applied, emphasizing the challenge of selecting grantees due to the proposals all addressing such vital causes. The impact of these grants extends beyond financial support, creating a lasting effect on Monmouth County.
Impact 100 Jersey Coast is not just about providing financial assistance; it’s a movement that aims to empower women to improve lives through philanthropy. The organization, founded in 2015, comprises women from different backgrounds and ages who combine charitable dollars, experience, and energy to bring tangible change to the community. To date, they have collectively awarded over $2.88 million in funding to 35 local nonprofits. Co-President Lori Missig emphasizes, “... while our mission is to fund transformational grants, it is also to raise awareness of the community’s most pressing needs”. The organization aims to connect community minded women with organizations at the forefront of addressing unmet needs. That awareness often leads to additional support in the form of donations of wish list items, board engagement or volunteering.
The concept is simple: any woman can become a member by making an annual tax-deductible donation of $1,100, with $1,000 directly contributing to the Impact grant fund.As an all-volunteer, women-led organization, Impact 100 Jersey Coast remains committed to recruiting more members before the approaching March 15th membership deadline. Casey
DeStefano, a member who was able to volunteer her film production skills to create a series of moving and inspiring videos about the impact of IMPACT (all available on the website), encourages women to take the first step, expressing the enrichment of her life through Impact’s work.
Impact 100 Jersey Coast extends an open invitation, welcoming women to join their mission of collective philanthropy. Through financial contributions, volunteerism, and attending events, the collective provides a platform for women to create positive change in their community. As co-President Rowena Crawford-Phillips states, “The more members we get, the more grants we can give, and the more lives we will impact.”
Membership for the 2024 grant cycle is open through March 15. Women throughout the area are encouraged to consider becoming a part of this meaningful and transformative experience.
Take that first step and learn more about Impact 100 Jersey Coast at www.impact100jerseycoast.org and/or become a member here: https://impact100jerseycoast.org/join/
Dr. Margie Donlon and Luanne Peterpaul, Esq. received the oath of office from Speaker Craig Coughlin to become members of the New Jersey General Assembly. Assemblywomen D onlon and Peterpaul represent the 11th Legislative District, which spans 19 municipalities in eastern Monmouth County.
“Margie and Luanne are eminently qualified and will serve their district and the State of New Jersey with distinction,” said Speaker Coughlin (D-Middlesex). “We are lucky to have such a dynamic, talented incoming group of assembly members this session, especially this new Monmouth team with their breadth of experience and commitment to constituents.”
Before joining the General Assembly, Donlon served as Deputy Mayor of Ocean Township after two terms on the town council. She is a Board-Certified Doctor of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, caring for patients with injuries and disabilities. She served on Governor Murphy’s healthcare Transition Advisory Committee in 2017 and was a member of the LD11 Economic Recovery Advisory Council in 2020. She has made state history as the first woman physician to serve in the legislature.
“It’s an honor to be entrusted to serve,” said Assemblywoman Donlon (D-Monmouth). “In my work as a doctor and as Deputy
Mayor, I have strived to help my neighbors by listening, rolling up my sleeves and getting to work. I look forward to bringing that same approach to the State House.”
Donlon lives in Ocean Township with her husband, Ron, and daughters, Amalia and Vera.
Peterpaul is a former Municipal Judge for Long Branch and Asbury Park as well as a former County Prosecutor. She is the managing partner of Peterpaul Law in Asbury Park. She served as Chair of the Board for Garden State Equality where she was instrumental in the enactment of bipartisan Anti-Bullying legislation and played a significant role in securing marriage equality in New Jersey. She has made state history as the first openly gay woman to serve in the legislature.
“I have dedicated my career to justice, equality, and fairness and it will be a privilege to stand up for those values in Trenton on behalf of our constituents,” said Assemblywoman Peterpaul (D-Monmouth).
Peterpaul also serves on the Board of Trustees of the Robert Wood Johnson Medical Center at Monmouth Medical Center Children and on the Board of the Thomas Peterpaul Foundation. Peterpaul lives in Long Branch with her wife, Robin.
Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced Gauri Kshettry and Twisha Patel, who attend Edison High School, won the 2023 Congressional App Challenge for high school and middle school students in New Jersey’s 6th Congressional District. Their app – TheraPose – leverages AI-powered pose estimation technology — computer vision techniques which involve detecting and tracking the positions and orientations of human body parts in videos – to provide personalized guidance and feedback to patients undergoing physical therapy. As the winning app in the contest, Therapose will be displayed on the Congressional App Challenge Website and on a digital display in the Capitol this year.
TheraPose accurately tracks key joints and limbs for physical therapy patients. The app delivers personalized feedback and guidance to patients, ensuring they maintain optimal form and technique throughout their rehabilitation exercises. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of injury and maximizes the efficacy of therapy sessions. TheraPose also offers a comprehensive database of exercises tailored to various musculoskeletal conditions, allowing for a more customized and efficient rehabilitation program from a health care professional.
“The Congressional App Challenge is an important platform for students to showcase their technical and creative skills. I congratulate Gauri and Twisha for their winning app and applaud this year’s participants for their creativity. Year after year, the Congressional App Challenge never fails to bring out the best, brightest, and most innovative ideas from students across our district,” said Pallone. “I continue to be impressed by the ingenuity displayed by the winning teams each year and would like to thank the judges for their engagement and attention to the contest. As the Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, I have seen how innovative technology creates new opportunities for all Americans. I will continue to support investments in STEM education in New Jersey and across the country.”
The Congressional App Challenge is an annual competition that highlights the value of computer science and STEM education by encouraging high school and middle school students to learn how to code through the creation of their own apps. Entries in New Jersey’s 6th Congressional District were assessed by a panel of local experts on several criteria, including demonstrated knowledge of coding and programming skills as well as the quality and implementation of their ideas.
