CM: Colts Neck • Holmdel • Lincroft - May 2023

ALWAYS READY, ALWAYS THERE

Brigadier General Lisa J. Hou & the New Jersey National Guard

5K Run/Walk in Tutus Fights Pediatric Brain Tumors

Runners across the country can turn their footsteps into dollars for pediatric brain tumor research and they can wear a tutu while they do it on June 11.

The 8th annual Infinite Love for Kids Fighting Cancer "Tutu Trot" 5K Run/Walk has a goal of raising $100,000 for the Children's Brain Tumor Network, a global research effort based at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. They are looking to repeat the amount they raised in 2022, thanks to the efforts and generosity of hundreds of participants, donors, and sponsoring companies.

This year’s 5K race is being held in-person at two locations in two different states: Trumbull High School in Trumbull, CT and Middletown High School South in Middletown, NJ. People wanting to help from outside those areas can still participate by signing up and participating virtually from wherever they are that day.

In addition to the 5K Run/Walk that is open to all ages, the event also includes a series of short Kids’ Fun Runs to be held on the track after the 5K is complete. Interested participants can sign up online, anytime up until Race Day on June 11; free t-shirts will be guaranteed for everybody who registers by May 12.

The story of the Tutu Trot is one of people coming together. Two parents of cancer fighters, strangers to each other, started separate 5K races in their hometowns to raise awareness and money for t he childhood cancer cause. Jim McCaffrey held the first Tutu Trot in Trumbull CT while his daughter Mia, a kindergartener, was battling rhabdomyosarcoma. Sue Funck began the Hustle4Hannah 5K in Tinton Falls, NJ to honor the memory of her 14-year-old daughter Hannah after her fight with brain cancer.

Since 2019, the generous participants, donors, and sponsors of the annual Infinite Love Tutu Trot have raised an impressive $240,000 for the Children's Brain Tumor

Network. The CBTN was created to enable rapid and detailed information-sharing between researchers worldwide and has drastically accelerated the rate of life-saving research for children with brain tumors.

Contributions from nonprofit organizations like Infinite Love allow the CBTN to grow bigger and faster, accelerating the pace of progress in the fight against pediatric brain tumors. “We know first-hand

what cancer can do to a child. We lived it, and still live every day with what it took from us,” says Sue Funck. “I can think of no better way to honor Hannah than to give other kids like her a better chance of surviving.”

To sign up for the Tutu Trot, or to donate toward the $100,000 fundraising goal, please visit runsignup.com/ ILTutuTrot.

St. George’s-by-the-River Canterbury Fair 2023

The well-loved community tradition, St. George’s-bythe-River Canterbury Fair, is back and celebrating its 75th Anniversary on June 9 and 10 at the church’s property on Lincoln Avenue in Rumson. Steeped in tradition with new twists, the Canterbury Fair marks the unofficial start of summer for many in the area. In addition to all the fun, the Fair raises funds to help support many of the outreach programs supported by the church. Generations of parishioners have devoted their time and treasure to bringing the event to life each year. Funfilled and festive, the fair offers something for everyone!

Father Jeff Roy agrees, adding, “From its very beginning, the Canterbury Fair has been an important part o f St. George’s ministry both inside and outside of the parish. New connections and friendships are formed as our parishioners work together to tackle such a l arge and important event. The Fair is

vital to supporting our mission and ministries, particularly our Outreach Committee, and the many local organizations t hat we support. This year, celebrating our 75th Fair is especially exciting as we seek to return to ‘normal.’ Oh, and did I mention how much fun we have?!”

A huge draw for the crowds is the shopping opportunities. The (in)famous White Elephant sale draws crowds from near and far. There is also jewelry, electronics, plants and flowers, books and much more. Families looking for entertainment for the younger set will find a n entire space dedicated to Canterbury Kidz. Old-fashioned fun like the dunk tank and cotton candy machine combined with fresh new events like a surf m achine and a DJ make the Canterbury Fair a destination!

W ith all the fun and the shopping, there are many options to refresh and reboot your energy. Whether it’s relaxing w ith baked goods and coffee in the beautiful Tea Garden or heading over with

y our appetite to The Grill for hamburgers and hotdogs and more, no one leaves t he Canterbury Fair hungry. T he entire community of St. George’s-by-the-River hopes that you will join in the fun, rain or shine. June 9 is the Preview Sale from 12pm to 4pm, $5 at the door. June 10 is free admission and the Carillon Bells will sound the start of the Fair at 9:30am with the fun continuing until 3:00pm.

Monmouth Park System to Host Creative Arts Festival

The Monmouth County Park System is hosting its annual Creative Arts Festival from 10:00am to 4:00pm on Saturday, May 13 at Thompson Park, 805 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft. This juried arts festival features specially selected artists’ works of pottery, photography, jewelry, paintings and other mediums. With more than 45 artists displaying their works, booths will be located both inside the barns and outdoors under tents. This family-friendly festival also includes live music, art demonstrations and children’s activities.

Musical performances include The Band of the Two Rivers, Zydeco Revelators, Chuck Lambert, Musicians on a Mission and more. See sculptor

Konstantin Zingerman work on his latest piece and artist Karin Trunz demonstrate silk painting. Other demonstrations include pottery and bonsai. Children are invited to contribute to the community mural and make crafts. The event will also feature two food trucks. Admission and parking for the festival are free. For more information about the Creative Arts Festival or the Park System, please visit www. MonmouthCountyParks.com or call (732)842-4000. For persons with hearing impairment, the Park System’s TTY/TDD number is 711. The Monmouth County Park System, created in 1960 by the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners, is Monmouth County’s Open Space, Parks, and Recreation agency.

Trust professionals you know. Joseph and Donna Vitale have been residents of Marlboro and now Colts Neck for over 20 years. Chances are your children know our children and your neighbors know our business reputation for quick and immaculate home renovations. When you hire World Class Kitchen and Bath Design Center, you will be working with Joseph and Donna

direct throughout the entire course of your renovation.

Our extended team includes organized office staff and seasoned craftsmen who are also residents from local towns. We are one stop shopping including architects, plumbers and electricians. Stop by today to visit our three level showroom.

Monmouth Civic Chorus Presents Message in a Bottle

The award-winning Monmouth Civic Chorus presents Message in a Bottle: Songs Sent Across the Seas on Sunday, May 21 at 4:00pm This crowd-pleasing concert comprises a collection of iconic shorter works originating in the United States and Europe, featuring favorites by Morten Lauridsen to celebrate his 80th year. The chorus will tour to Austria and Italy with similar repertoire in July.

“ The choral works Morten Lauridsen created in the 1990s reignited the choral repertoire, earning quickly and truthfully the oft-meaningless designation ‘instant classics.’ I’ll never forget hearing them for the first time, feeling them mesmerize my young musical mind, said Dr. Brandau. “This was music that somehow glimmered, shone, and pulsed in a way I hadn’t experienced before. Lauridsen alit on a combination of harmony and voicing that

beguilingly and powerfully conveyed the images of light and spirit and mystery in his texts.”

M essage in a Bottle: Songs Sent Across the Seas will take place at First Presbyterian Church of Freehold, 118 West Main Street, Freehold. Ticket prices are $35 adult, $32 senior, $30 group, $15 student.

A ll chorus members are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and engage in serial testing per CDC guidelines before the performance. Audience m embers are no longer required to show proof of vaccination. Masking is respected, but not required. MCC will follow all forthcoming state mandates and reserves the right to amend these policies if it becomes advisable. Tickets and information are available at monmouthcivicchorus.org or (732) 9339333.

Acclaimed Chorus to Feature Iconic Shorter Works of Lauridsen and More

Brookdale Community College Students to Benefit from New Paths to TCNJ

The College of New Jersey President Kathryn A. Foster, and Brookdale Community College President David M. Stout recently formalized an articulation agreement that enables Brookdale graduates to seamlessly transfer to TCNJ’s fouryear bachelor’s degree programs.

B eginning in the Fall of 2023, Brookdale Associate degree graduates in good academic standing who have maintained the required GPA and satisfactorily completed the application for admission will automatically be granted admission to TCNJ.

“ United by shared visions, missions, and values, and driven by a deep commitment to empowering students in their educational journeys, TCNJ is a perfect match for our students to complete their pathways,” Stout said. “Through cooperative and efficient program offerings, we strive to provide equal opportunities for all students to achieve their fullest potential.”

T his opportunity includes 51 different academic pathways into TCNJ’s School of the Arts & Communication, School of Business, School of Education, School of Engineering, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, School of Nursing & Health Sciences, and School of Science. These articulation pathways are meant for students who choose to begin their college coursework at Brookdale and later transfer to TCNJ once they have earned either their Associate of Arts, Associate of Science or, if entering the School of Arts & Communication, their Associate of Applied Science or Associate of Fine Arts.

I n addition, this agreement also includes a provision for

Dual Enrollment. All freshman applicants who apply to TCNJ but are denied direct admission will receive notification of conditional Dual Enrollment to TCNJ in partnership with Brookdale. The Dual Enrollment program provides certain benefits to these students, such as attending select activities on the TCNJ campus, waiving their application and deposit fees, receiving advising from both institutions and being eligible for designated scholarships.

O ver the past three years, TCNJ has received over 250 Brookdale applications, with over 68 percent of those admitted to the college. Over 100 Brookdale graduates are currently TCNJ Lions.

“ It is clear that our two schools share common DNA: ensuring student success, cultivating a love of learning; and empowering students to enhance their communities locally and beyond,” Foster said. “We cannot wait to welcome many more Brookdale transfers in the coming years and to deepen this inspiring opportunity and partnership.”

A s part of this agreement, TCNJ will have a consistent and visible presence on the Brookdale campus in Lincroft, New Jersey, including meeting with students to answer questions and providing any information or assistance they may need.

Visit https://heoa.tcnj.edu/categories/institutionalinformation/transfer-credits/ for a full list of TCNJ transfer of credit policies and articulation agreements. View Brookdale’s Transfer Resources at https://www.brookdalecc.edu/transferresources/.

Stop by the Farm this Spring!

Open Weekends from 12:00 to 3:00 PM

Weather Permitting

FirFarmHoney & Merchandise Available

Mark Your Calendar!

9 th Annual Hops

Harvest Festival

AUGUST 2023

“Sounds of Summer” Concert Series

The Colts Neck Recreation Department is excited to announce a series of free music concerts to be held at the Township Municipal Complex on Thursday evenings throughout the summer. The concerts will feature something for everyone: Brass, Rock, Bluegrass, Blues, and Country bands. Performances will run from 7:00pm to 8:30pm and admission is free. Bring your lawn chairs!

May 25 -

June 8 -

June 22 -

July 13 -

July 27 -

August 10 -

August 24 -

September 14 -

Level Up – Today’s Pop Rock

The Last Whippoorwill Bluegrass Band

The Hashtags - ‘90’s Rock

The Band of the Two Rivers Brass Band –Overtures, Broadway Medleys, Marches & Novelty tunes

Country Band

Colts Neck’s Got Talent – Colts Neck residents are invited to sign up to perform. More details to follow on the Township’s webpage.

Chuck Lambert Blues Band

Monmouth Symphony Brass – Mix of popular music from movies & musicals and Classical music

ONE OF AMERICA’S BEST HOSPITALS

Hackensack Meridian Bayshore Medical Center was recently recognized as one of America’s 250 Best Hospitals by Healthgrades – placing the medical center in the top 5 percent of hospitals in the country for high quality care.

Healthgrades also named Bayshore an Excellence Award in Critical Care and Five-Star awards in Carotid Surgery, Hip Fracture Treatment, Pacemaker Procedures, Heart Failure, Sepsis, Respiratory Failure and more.

We’re proud of our team for continually advancing medicine, all so our patients can keep getting better. BayshoreMedicalCenter.org

Dr. Dana Spada

Bringing an individualized approach to psychotherapy, with a passion for creative and deep-reaching individual, family and couples’ therapy

Since the age of 13, Dr. Dana Spada knew she wanted to be a psychotherapist. This drove her to earn her Master's degree in social work from the State University of New York, Stony Brook as well as a Ph.D. in psychology from Adelphi University. Dr. Spada calls therapy “her calling”, and says it’s what she absolutely loves to do. Dr. Spada started out as a solo practitioner, running her own practice in Colts Neck. She has since expanded into Little Silver, where she leads a team of therapists at LEAF by Dr. Dana Spada . Clients can choose from in-person or virtual sessions.

CM: Tell us about LEAF by Dr. Dana Spada Psychotherapy

Dr. Spada: We are a private psychotherapy practice that serves adults, children a nd teens. We offer services that include individual, marriage, couples, and family therapy and counseling. The practice is rooted in Colts Neck, with a recent expansion to Little Silver. We are very excited about our expansion to Little Silver and becoming part of the community!

CM: What brings people to therapy?

Dr. Spada: All kinds of things. My clients are just like you and I. Some clients have a specific issue they are going through and want to resolve, so they come to therapy, do their thing and go. Other patients fold therapy into their lives. Whether it’s finding personal growth or learning how to get the absolute most out of life, there are many reasons which might bring a person into therapy.

CM: How do you approach your work with couples?

Dr. Spada: I absolutely love working with

couples! My approach is pretty specific, as I have found great success with it. When doing couples (or marriage) therapy, I always make sure to do individual sessions w ith each partner as well. I do this to establish relationships with each client and bu ild trust with them. This makes the process significantly more effective when we work together as a group.

CM: What does working with children look like for you?

Dr. Spada: Very different from working with adults. With children, we do a lot of play therapy. I approach and tend to children where they are comfortable. I usually work with the parents as well, in a separate session than the child, since the work is an “all hands on deck approach.”

CM: What would you want people to know about therapy if they have never been and might be thinking about coming in?

Dr. Spada: Therapy is a magical process. It’s a journey. It’s one of those things you have to experience to understand. Some -

times I catch my clients actually running in! They jump onto the couch, get in their favorite spot, and are just ready to do what they do. The reward of what you can get out of therapy outweighs the fear tenfold.

CM: Why come to LEAF by Dr. Dana Spada Psychotherapy?

Dr. Spada: LEAF is a very special place to come to therapy. This is truly because of the therapists that work at LEAF. I would go to any of my therapists for my own therapy. We are a group of people who are deeply passionate about the work we do.

CM: Does a person need to have anything prepared before they come in?

Dr. Spada: There is absolutely nothing to prepare for when coming to therapy. Just book a session and show up! Booking a session at LEAF couldn’t be easier. We are very holistic. We don't do evaluations, make clients complete paperwork, or focus on diagnoses. We focus on the persontheir heart and soul and helping them to grow in ways that feel good to them.

Gold Award Recipient

There are hundreds of historical places in New Jersey and Isabella Marotta, a junior at Holmdel high school, is on a mission to see all of them. Isabella is a Girl Scout Ambassador in Troop 564. She has received both her Bronze and Silver awards and recently the highest honor a Girl Scout can accomplish, the Gold Award. To earn this, she needed to commit to a project that would make the world a better place. The project must also have lasting solutions to a vision for a better future, and at least 80 hours of work must be logged. Isabella had 99.5 hours in her final submission.

Isabella’s passion and interest in New Jersey history inspired her to build a website that would help others who already enjoy history and inspire others to want to learn about history do so more easily. Here, young people like herself, would be able to research cool historic places to visit in New Jersey. On https:// sites.google.com/view/encouraginghistoricalnj/home, locations are sorted by county and town. Information is provided about parking, restrooms, and disability accessibility. There are many pictures too! Isabella visited 17 historic sites and hopes to continue adding more until her goal of visiting all of New Jersey’s historical sites is complete!

Isabella explains what inspired her, as written on her website, “The separation between history and current technology acts as a barrier between modern entertainment and learning about substantial information. I believe learning about history is one of the most important factors in continuing to develop a society. To be able to help others my age or just others as passionate in history as I am to get historical information about places in the area would be the solution. I aim to utilize modern technology in all of its uses to be able to better connect today’s youth with the structures of our society. Modern civilization prioritizes entertainment over knowledge and, while I would never denounce modern technology as its pushed this world much further than it could ever be without it, the world of today is not employing this technology to its fullest extent.”

Isabella Marotta explores historic sites in NJ

732-306-6397

732-306-6397

JaniceT@EXITRealtyEC.com

JaniceT@EXITRealtyEC.com

www.JaniceTroiano.REALTOR

www.JaniceTroiano.REALTOR

Facebook: @JaniceTroianoRealEstate

SERVING OUR NATION, OUR COMMUNITY, AND OUR VETERANS

Monmouth County Resident and New Jersey National Guard’s Adjutant General Lisa J. Hou Reflects on Service and Valuing Our Veterans

Story by Brian O’Malley Photos Courtesy of Brigadier General Lisa J. Hou

Brigadier General Lisa Hou’s affinity for Monmouth County began as a child, not long after her parents moved their family here from Washington, DC. Raised in Middletown and Rumson, and currently a resident of Belmar, Hou proudly describes her home county, saying, “you have everything you could want here – great communities, great people, and a great location… what else could you want?”

T he general shares that her parents raised her and her siblings with a strong desire to serve their communi-

ty. Her father was an anesthesiologist at Riverview Medical Center for over forty years while her mother was an active volunteer, doing a tremendous amount of work to plan and host local community events. Hou recalls many fond memories of growing up in Monmouth County, from spending time roaming the fairgrounds with her younger sisters at the Monmouth County Fair, to enjoying summer days on the greatest beaches in New Jersey, to assisting at the fundraising events that her mother organized.

General Hou did not initially plan on joining the military. As a child, she remembers her grandfather regularly taking her to New York City for brunches in Chinatown. A retired two-star General in the C hinese Nationalist Army, he would regale her with stories from his time in service. As Hou tells it, it was the influence of her grandfather and parents that left an indelible mark on her and stoked a fire of selfless service that helped guide her future career path.

A fter graduating from college, Hou went on to medical school. It was there that one of her fellow students introduced her to the idea of serving in the National Guard. Her classmate invited her to be part of a research project about medical pilots serving in the Guard. After spending a few months flying around in Huey helicopters as part of the study, Hou knew she had found her calling. “I loved it,” the General relates, “I was hooked. Not long after that, I went to see a recruiter and I signed up for the National Guard.”

I nitially, her parents did not understand her decision and, like many parents, didn’t comprehend the differences between active-duty military and the National Guard. “I was their eldest daughter and they were worried that I would be going off to war,” Hou says, “but over the years, they came to understand how much serving in the Guard meant to me and I can now say that they are proud of me and my career.” Twenty-eight years later, that career has included tours in Afghanistan a nd Iraq as a field surgeon, a medical practice in Hazlet Township, and eventually being appointed as the 33rd Adjutant General of the New Jersey National Guard.

Serve With Honor, Live With Purpose

The National Guard is unique in that it is a dual role operational force: partially federal and partially state. While many people associate the service with active deployment, that is only a limited part of the state militia’s mission.

The New Jersey National Guard responds to federal missions as ordered by the President of the United States. A large portion of the Guard’s federal role involves international military-to-military engagements. General Hou stresses that the Guard only works on defensive operations and is not involved in other countries’ offensive operations. An example of this engagement is the State Partnership Program. Under this

program, the New Jersey National Guard has been the official partner of the Republic of Albania’s military for the past 22 years. New Jersey’s soldiers and airmen train Albania’s military and deploy alongside them. The purpose of this program is to enhance security cooperation between the United States and the partner nation and to build long-lasting, fruitful relationships. Not long ago, the Guard was on hand to assist the Albanian military with shoring up their cyber security network in order to repel a major hacking attempt by the government of Iran. General Hou was proud that her airmen were able to guide their Albanian partners through this challenge. More recently, the New Jersey National Guard signed a similar state partnership agreement with the Republic of Cyprus – a relationship that the General is very excited about.

On the state side, the Guard’s local mission is what differentiates them from

Brigadier General Lisa J. Hou, Governor Philip D. Murphy, and Brigadier General Robert W. Hughes Jr. review the Soldiers and Airmen of the New Jersey National Guard in 2022

active-duty forces. “One of our biggest assets is that we serve in our own communities,” the General states. The Guard was actively involved in the state’s response to Superstorm Sandy in 2012, especially in Monmouth County. The General relates that her guardsmen served throughout the county and the state, doing whatever needed to be done to help New Jerseyans recover. Those tasks included traffic control, delivering necessary supplies, evacuating residents, and assisting with transportation. In 2020, the Guard was also deployed to assist with coordinating New Jersey’s COVID-19 response, in what Hou describes as the largest domestic operation the National Guard has had in years, i f not decades. Guardsmen staffed vaccine mega-sites, oversaw mortuary affairs, and even administered vaccine doses to New Jersey residents. “Our motto is ‘Always Ready, Always There’” Hou says, “and I really do believe we provide that to our neighbors.”

A s Adjutant General, Hou commands

a force of nearly 8,400 soldiers and airmen who make up the New Jersey National Guard. The majority of those service members are part-time, with the traditional commitment being one weekend per month and 15 days of training per year. While, across the nation, many states are struggling with recruitment to their state militias, General Hou is proud to share that the New Jersey National Guard is in very good shape, at about 99-100% of their required strength. But that doesn’t mean that she’s not actively recruiting new service members. “We have some of the best benefits in the nation,” states the General, “including free college and graduate school tuition, leadership and career t raining, and the opportunity to be part of a dedicated team.” Hou points out that she has utilized the benefits herself, graduating with an MBA from Rutgers University School of Business-Camden in 2020. Commenting on the camaraderie that develops a mong guardsmen who serve together, the General adds, “the people who we work

with and the teams that we create... they’re like having another family.”

We Value Our Veterans

In addition to her role as Adjutant General of the National Guard, Hou also serves on the governor’s cabinet as Commissioner of the Department of M ilitary and Veterans Affairs (DMAVA). In this part of her job, Hou oversees a team that provides benefits and services to an estimated 320,000 veterans across the state.

A long with managing the state’s three veterans nursing homes, Hou is very proud of the department’s two transitional facilities, Veterans Haven North (Glen Gardner) and Veterans Haven South (Winslow Township). These centers serve displaced veterans (DMAVA’s term for veterans experiencing homelessness) by providing immediate food and shelter and, in the long-term, getting veterans back on their feet and into stable jobs a nd permanent housing. During their stays at the transition center, displaced veterans have access to counseling services, transportation to VA medical appointments, and job assistance. Hou says that the two facilities have a strong track record of getting d isplaced veterans into permanent living situations.

The DMAVA also offers the NJ Service Medal Program, awarding seven different medals to New Jersey’s veterans in recognition of their military service. General Hou emphasizes her desire for this program to grow and expand and points out t hat any veteran, family member, or friend can nominate an eligible veteran to receive a service medal. Medals are awarded at ceremonies arranged by the DMAVA at locations that are convenient to the veteran.

Hou also encourages local institutions

and organizations to get involved in supporting New Jersey’s veterans. The We Value Our Veterans initiative was established as a way for municipalities, educational institutions, and businesses to take part in honoring and providing benefits to local veterans. By reaching a specified number of veterans-related goals, a participating organization is designated as a “We Value Our Veterans” institution, signaling to the greater community their commitment to honoring the patriotism of New Jersey’s veterans.

Perhaps most critically, the DMAVA provides Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) to serve as liaisons between the veteran population and the state government. New Jersey currently has fourteen VSOs, and General Hou has a goal of expanding the program to have a dedicated VSO for each of New Jersey’s 21 counties. “Veterans have earned the rights to these benefits, and I want every one of them to receive all of the benefits that they deserve,” she states. VSOs can assist veterans with their New Jersey state tax exemption (a $6,000 annual benefit), property tax benefits, and counseling resources, among others. However, according to Hou, the service that veterans seem to need the most assistance with is filing for their VA disability claims. She notes, “last year our VSOs helped veterans bring in over $70 million in claims awards – that’s a lot of money that many veterans are missing out on.”

Memorial Day: A Time to Pay Homage

At the end of this month, communities across the nation will gather to commemorate Memorial Day. For General Hou, and many veterans like her, this day of remembrance is a time to ensure that we pay appropriate homage to those who made the u ltimate sacrifice. There are three war memorials managed by the DMAVA: the World War II Memorial in Trenton, the Korean War Memorial in Atlantic City, and the Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial and Vietnam Era Museum in Holmdel. According to

t he New Jersey Veterans’ Memorial Foundation, which operates the memorial, Monmouth County was chosen as the location for the memorial because the “rolling hills in this area provided serenity and tranquility appropriate to a memorial to those who g ave their life for this country.” General Hou recommends that residents take the opportunity to visit all three of New Jersey’s memorials, but points out that the Holmdel location has easy access right off the Garden State Parkway, affording the opportunity to stop in for a moment of reflection and to pay respect.

The DMAVA also oversees the Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Wrightstown, NJ, one of the busiest state-run veterans cemeteries in the nation. It is here that the department will host its annual Memorial Day commemoration, with Governor Murphy and General Hou in attendance. For Hou, one of the most meaningful parts of the weekend is getting to see the hundreds of scouts arrive at the cemetery on the day before the ceremony to place American flags on every single gravesite. In spending time with these young volunteers, General Hou says that most of the scouts have genuine appreciation for the sacrifices of these service members. “These are peoples’ parents, their children, their brothers and sisters, and they should never be forgotten,” says Hou, adding that, “seeing that these young kids understand what Memorial Day means… that is really heartwarming.”

Hou encourages all New Jersey residents to take part in a Memorial Day ceremony hosted by the state or their local municipality. She also invites New Jerseyans to pause on that day to remember and prioritize what the day is truly about.

“For me,” says the General, “every day should be Memorial Day.”

We Are Here to Serve Our Own Communities

General Hou concluded her thoughts with a message to her fellow Monmouth County residents, saying, “I love living in Mon-

mouth County. I want to thank my neighbors for making this a great community a nd for their support of our military. Monmouth County is a very patriotic community, and we appreciate your support!” She a lso encouraged her neighbors to answer the call to serve, noting “we do have a lot of guardsmen from Monmouth, and I would love to see even more.”

Hou’s final words reflected her appreciation for the opportunity to serve her state and her country these past 28 years. “I never imagined that investing this much into the military would ever be in my career path, but it’s the best thing that ever happened to me.”

For more information about the benefits and services offered by the Department of Military and Veteran Affairs (DMAVA), please visit nj.gov/military/ or call the NJ Veterans Benefits Hotline at (888) 8NJ-VETS / (888) 865-8387.

For information on serving in the New Jersey National Guard, please visit nj.gov/ military/guard/.

The Veterans Services Officer assigned to Monmouth County is: Peter Midgley Phone: (732) 775-7009 / 7005 Fax: (732) 775-3612

Peter.Midgley@dmava.nj.gov

Are you or a veteran you know struggling and in need of assistance? Contact the 24 hour a day Vet2Vet Hotline at (866) 8387654.

14 Shadowbrook Drive, Colts Neck | $2,595,000

PENNY OF HOLMDEL

SIMBA OF COLTS NECK

OLIVE OF HOLMDEL

ROCKY OF HOLMDEL

CHICO OF COLTS NECK

MONROE OF HOLMDEL

GEMA OF HOLMDEL

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COOPER OF HOLMDEL STELLA & EINSTEIN OF HOLMDEL

RUFUS OF HOLMDEL

Monmouth County Fair Offers Sponsorship Opportunities

Looking for an exciting way to promote your business and connect with customers? Become a sponsor of the 48th Annual Monmouth County Fair! As the largest, family-oriented, multi-day event in Monmouth County and the Jersey Shore area, the Fair drew over 95,000 visitors each of the past two years. With its thrilling rides, live entertainment, Home and Garden Competitions, 4-H shows and exhibits, the event has agricultural fair status.

E ven better, the Fair offers many sponsorship levels that provide a winning combination of a highprofile advertising package and great publicity that sends a positive message of goodwill to all potential clientele. From Banner to Corporate Sponsorships, ranging from $500 to $20,000, you’re sure to find a level that fits your business. Visit www. MonmouthCountyFair.com to learn more about becoming a sponsor and the different levels available.

P resented by the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners, in cooperation with the Monmouth County Park System and the Monmouth County 4-H Association, the Fair runs Wednesday-Sunday, July 26-30, at East Freehold Showgrounds, Kozloski Road, Freehold.

For more information about the Monmouth County Fair, visit www. MonmouthCountyFair.com or call (732) 842-4000. For persons with hearing impairment, the TTY/TDD number is 711.

Pier Village High Tide Maker and Artisan Market

May 5 through September 8, 11:00am - 6:00pm

Join us starting Friday, May 5 and every Friday through September 8 at Pier Village, Long Branch. As the most exciting beachfront destination at the Jersey Shore. High Tide’s open-air market offers unique items from makers and artisans alongside yoga and reiki workshops.

Windows on the Water

May 5, 6:00pm - 9:00pm

Surfrider Beach Club, Sea Bright

Join Clean Ocean Action for fun and festivities at the fundraising event of the year! Hosted by The Lobiondo Family at Windows on the Water at Surfrider Beach Club, COA's Shore Shindig features live music by Thom White & The Flatliners, open bar, raw bar courtesy of Lusty Lobster, "shorely" sumptuous appetizers & big beachy buffet by Chef Pete (surf & turf, gluten-free, and vegetarian options available), exciting silent auction, and 50/50 raffle with excellent company and stunning ocean views included! Go to CleanOceanAction.org to reserve your tickets or to see sponsorship and underwriting opportunities. Tickets are $125 each or 10 for $1,000.

Ocean Grove's Spring Fling Arts and Crafts Show

May 6, 10:00am - 4:00pm

Ocean Grove's Spring Fling Arts & Crafts Show featuring Jo Wymer and Band and Chuck Lambert Blues! Rain or Shine, Free Admission, Crafts, Art, Music & Food!

Swingin' Sinatra & Dessert Event!

May 7

Avon Marina Building, 2 Main Street, Avon-By-The-Sea

A mix of live entertainment, music, chat by Sinatra Guest Speakers, and some light dessert snacks round out the afternoon celebrating the music and career of Frank Sinatra.

The Spongebob Musical

May 8, 6:00pm - 9:00pm

Auditions will take place at the Middletown Arts Center. Participants must prepare 32 bars of a musical theater song in the style of the show. An accompanist will be provided or please bring tracks for your selection. To schedule an audition time, please email auditionmac@gmail.com.

Newcomers and Neighbors

Spring Luncheon

May 11, 12:00pm

Oyster Point Restaurant, Red Bank

The Newcomers and Neighbors Club of Colts Neck, Holmdel and surrounding areas will hold its annual spring luncheon. Friends and guests will enjoy a day together, with a delicious meal and great comedy entertainment! For information call (908) 309-1602.

Creative Arts Festival

May 13, 10:00am - 4:00pm

Thompson Park, 805 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft

This arts festival features specially selected artists’ works of pottery, photography, jewelry, paintings and other mediums. With more than 45 artists displaying their works, booths will be located both inside the barns and outdoors under tents. This family-friendly festival also includes live music, art demonstrations and children’s activities.

Citizens for Informed Land Use (CILU) Zoom

Presentation by Michael Pisauro from the Watershed Institute

May 15, 7:30pm

Pisauro will share his expertise on watersheds, inland flooding, stormwater management, and how to protect the Swimming River Reservoir watershed in which much of Holmdel is located. This Zoom presentation is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Karen at karsyv356@gmail.com. To register online, visit bit.ly/3LuAMrs.

Interfaith Neighbors

Gala Celebrating 35 Years of Neighbors Helping Neighbors

May 18

Eagle Oaks Golf & Country Club, Farmingdale

Interfaith Neighbors, a 501(c)3 based in Asbury Park, will be celebrating 35 years of operation this May at their Gala. The celebration and fundraiser will be held at Eagle Oaks Golf & Country Club in Farmingdale and will include a cocktail hour, auctions, dinner, and dancing. All proceeds raised from the event will benefit Interfaith Neighbors’ programs.

Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival

May 27-29

Monmouth Park, Oceanport Food trucks are finally back with the Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival during Memorial Day weekend. Come enjoy this most delicious event!

Accepting event listings at info@communitymagazinenj.com.

Megan’s Mindful Minute . . . Caregiver Blues

When our loved ones require ongoing care due to chronic issues, it can be really challenging. Being a caregiver to a child, parent or loved one over time can have a profound impact on your mental health. Burnout, resentment, anger, loneliness and decline in your own physical health are commonplace. It can be hard to keep a positive attitude and to keep things in perspective when we are stretched thin and overwhelmed with the responsibility of another's quality of life. Here is what you can do.

1. A sk for help and receive it. Farm out any chores or tasks that you can. If someone offers to stop by for an hour, make a meal or anything, ACCEPT IT!

2. Talk it through. Unexpressed thoughts and feelings can multiply their power. Simply by externalizing them, their control and impact are greatly reduced.

3. S elf-care, self-care, self-care! I can't say it enough. It doesn't have to be a big day at the spa. It can be as simple as buying yourself a bouquet of flowers or a scented candle, or dancing to your favorite song from when you were a teen.

Stay safe, have fun and love each other.

And remember, in the wise words of my father, "People want to help more than you think, you just have to ask."

Megan Baker, LPC holds a Masters degree in Mental Health and Marriage & Family Counseling. She is a therapist with AbleTo. Have a situation or issue you need help with? Direct message Megan on Instagram INSTAGRAM @megansmindfulminute.

Memorial Day Events

COLTS NECK

Bicycle Decorating Contest

May 29

Town Hall, 3 Veterans Way

Judging will begin at 10:00am sharp

Parents may ride in the parade as well

Memorial Day Parade

May 29, 10:30am

Sets up at Town Hall

Starts on Heyers Mill Road

Ends at Memorial Park

Memorial Day Ceremony

May 29, 11:30am

Memorial Park, Memorial Park-Heyers Mill Road Colts Neck

HOLMDEL

Memorial Day Service

May 29, 10:30am

Town Hall, 4 Crawfords Corner Rd, Holmdel