CM: Rumson • Fair Haven • Little Silver • Red Bank • Locust • Sea Bright - January 2017 by Community Magazine NJ

RUMSON

FAIR HAVEN

LITTLE SILVER

RED BANK

SEA BRIGHT

LOCUST

MONMOUTH FILM FESTIVAL makes its debut

Project Write Now’s “A N I G H T T O R E M E M B E R ”

Rumson Sisters Share

Amazing Experience SHOW BUSINESS

Is acting right for your child?

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30 Ridge Avenue | 732.747.8282

RUMSON FAIR HAVEN LITTLE SILVER RED BANK SEA BRIGHT LOCUST

Tel: 732.739.8689 | Fax: 732.739.3262 www.CommunityMagazineNJ.com editor-in-chief CAR OLYN BU RT NI C K

creative director LOR I D ONNE LLY

graphic designers

Monmouth Film Festival

ER ICA PA R K E R OLIVIA M A ZA NE C

made its debut at Two River Theater

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photography KIM LEVIN P HOTOG R A PHY MELISSA AMORELLI PHOTOGRAPHY

general manager MAR IA CONNOR S

contributing editors

There’s Something New About Sea Bright

S U SAN M U R PHY S H ANNA P OLI G NONE H OP E DA NI E LS CAR R IE FA LC ONE

advertising LILIANN PA R AS LYNN S CHI AVONE

publisher VICTOR V. S C U D I E RY

Rumson Sisters Share “Amazing” RFH Dance Team Experience

Project Write Now

had “A Night to Remember”

MONTHLY FEATURES The Parenthood Blog Animal Advocacy The Food Spy Eventful Divorce Talk Pet Celebrities

18 36 20 14 32 39

be a part of CM We accept pet photos, local event listings, fundraiser & important life announcements (engagement, wedding, baby) and more! Do you know people who are extraordinary and live in our community? Tell us about them; we would love to spotlight them in future editions of CM! You can do this by emailing: info@communitymagazinenj.com For our media kit & rates, email: advertising@communitymagazinenj.com

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812 River Road, Fair Haven, NJ 07704 | 49 Country Road, Route 537 West, Colts Neck, NJ 07722 812 River Road, Fair Haven, NJ 07704 | 49 Country Road, Route 537 West, Colts Neck, NJ 07722 Fair Haven Office • 732-530-6300 | Colts Neck Office • 732-252-2460 Fair Haven Office • 732-530-6300 | Colts Neck Office • 732-252-2460

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Looking forward, we at Com mu n it y Ma g a zi ne are really excited for 2017. Even though we have only been publishing in your area for about a year now, in March we will be celebrating our 7th anniversary serving the Monmouth County area! We are so grateful to continue to be part of these amazing communities, and interacting with the most inspiring residents around.

77 Poricy Lane, Middletown

Your COMMUNITY, Your MAGAZINE We pride ourselves on delivering the most interesting content to you, the reader. And you may not realize, but most of the stories on the pages you read are comprised of your fellow neighbors informing us about news or people they think should be highlighted in the magazine. So, if you know someone who goes above and beyond, or know an interesting person – we would love to hear from you. Our name is Com mu n it y Ma g a zi ne , and that’s how we will remain, for the community! We thank you and look forward to continuing to be a part of your family and home every month.

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Flag Football Game Raises $10,000 for Lunch Break...

AGAIN!

This recent Black Friday marked the 15th Anniversary for the annual Little Silver versus Shrewsbury residents’ flag-football competition, which is a fundraiser for Lunch Break, Red Bank. The tradition was first played in 2002 and has grown every year since into a very festive, well-attended community event. There are games for children, men, and women. These hard-fought, flag-flag football games are exciting for all and of course bragging rights are important if you ask either town, but the true winner is Lunch Break. This year over $10,000.00 was raised for the organization, which helps to put food on the table for thousands of families in need. The charity flag football event raised $10,000 in 2015 as well. Lunch Break has served the community since 1983 by freely providing life’s basic necessities - food, clothing, and fellowship - to community members in need. Its mission is to alleviate hunger and lead those they serve to self-sufficiency and healthier lifestyles. Lunch Break serves everyone, with compassion and dignity. This football game, played on the Count Basie Fields, Red Bank, has its playful trash-talking, but is truly a culmination of the friendships that are a part of this two-town family. The players volunteered at Lunch Break the week before Thanksgiving feeding breakfast to the Lunch Break clients.

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Rick Brandt, Little Silver resident, and the event coordinator said, “All of the good that exists in Little Silver and Shrewsbury is represented by this annual football game and it is our hope that through our efforts together, we can tackle hunger in our community.” Brandt, along with his Little Silver teammates and Shrewsbury opponents collectively raised over $10,000.00 and a truck full of food and clothing for Lunch Break for the second straight year, all of which was presented to Lunch Break during halftime of the games. Brandt joined Lunch Break’s Board of Trustees this year and is its youngest member. The Mayors from both towns and Principals from each school always represent their Boroughs during the pre-game coin toss while the Fire, Police and First Aid trucks from the two towns line the sidelines with the hundreds of spectators who fill the park each and every year. This event would not have been possible without the generous sponsorship of GluckWalrath, Sickles Market, the Thygeson Family, ACME, Reardon Anderson, Quadrangle, Dom’s Cherry Street Deli, Primerica, Bagel Masters, Stephen Chagares, MD, PC, Troy & Zach Mulholland, The Klein Family, ABH Architecture. For more information on The White Road Cup, visit www.TheWhiteRoadCup.com.

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Open Sundays 431 Broad Street 732-530-3513 732-576-8188 M-F: 9:30am-7pm M-F: 9am-7pm | Sat: 9am-6pm Sat: 9am-6pm CommunityMagazineNJ.com JANUARY 2017 9 Sun: 10am-5pm 62 English Plaza

F R IE N D S O F T H E O CEAN RAISE AWAREN ESS AT

Clean Ocean Action’s “Fire & Ice” Fundraiser

The LoBiondo Family, owners of Surfrider Beach Club and Windows on the Water, hosted COA’s fundraiser

Clean Ocean Action’s fundraiser “Fire & Ice” committee.

Clean Ocean Action (COA) kicked-off the holiday SEAson with its fundraiser “Fire & Ice” on December 10, 2016 at Windows on the Water (of Surfrider Beach Club) in Sea Bright. Over three hundred friends of the ocean came out to celebrate the joys of the ocean and to support COA’s year-round effort to keep the ocean clean and safe for all to enjoy. Funds raised from the event will help support COA’s on-going work to protect the ocean, surroundings waterways, and their resources. “The ocean provides endless waves of joy and memories year-round, whether it’s diving into the crisp clear waters on a hot summer day or watching the seals bask on a snow covered beach,” said Cindy Zipf, COA’s Executive Director. “You may never know that defending these ecological and economic resources from harm never ends and it requires vigilance and tenacity. COA not only watches over the ocean to prevent harmful industrialization and sources of pollution but also ensures that all waterways that flow to the ocean are clean. That is why we launched “Rally for the Navesink”

this past year. “Fire and Ice” provides an opportunity for supporters to get together and help sustain our work to ensure a healthy ocean for families and fish — for today and the future”. Lisa and Ken Wilson, long-time, dedicated ocean advocates and supporters of Clean Ocean Action, co-chaired the benefit. “We were privileged to chair this important fundraising event for COA, the proceeds of which will help protect our ocean and waterways, a most precious asset available for all of us to enjoy. We are grateful for all the trueblue Friends of the Sea who came out to support this important fundraiser, celebrate the countless days we enjoyed along the shore in all seasons and demonstrate a commitment to the ongoing promotion of Clean Ocean Action and their important mission,” the Wilsons stated. The event was hosted by the LoBiondo Family, owners of Surfrider Beach Club and Windows on the Water. Mr. James LoBiondo of Surfrider Beach Club said, “From when our family

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Attendees enjoyed a fire-inspired cocktail hour with music by the Taylor Tote Band and The Haven, featuring special guest Thom White.

bought Surfrider Beach Club in 1986 to now, the quality of the water has tremendously improved and COA is hugely responsible for that. Since I was 10 years old, I never saw whales and dolphins so frequently until recently and the dramatic increase is due to the cleaner waters. We appreciate all that Clean Ocean Action does to protect the shore and we are honored to host the event. We are happy to give back to the community. It’s a legacy that was instilled in our family by our mom, Denise LoBiondo.” Along with maintaining COA’s yearround work to keep the ocean clean and safe for all to enjoy, funds raised from “Fire & Ice” will provide essential support for the organization’s variety of successful programs, including educational resources and activities, state of the art scientific research, water quality monitoring, community and citizen action campaigns, and so much more. For more information about Clean Ocean Action, visit www. cleanoceanaction.org.

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Monmouth Film Festival Makes its Debut

The Monmouth Film Festival Industry Panel. Left to right: Dani Tenenbaum (Filmmaker/Writer), Stacey Maltin (Actress/Writer), David Schoner (NJ Film Commission), Monmouth Film Festival Founder & President, Nicholas Marchese, John R. Green (ABC), Moderator Bryan DeNovellis (News 12), Mark Ehrenkranz (NYFCS), and Ernest Mingione (Actor)

MONMOUTH FILM FESTIVAL’S (MFF) vision to create an event by filmmakers, for filmmakers came true over a December weekend at the Two River Theater in Red Bank. Led by filmmaker Nicholas Marchese and his team, audiences enjoyed over 14 hours of quality, independent, films viewed by over 500 people enchanted by the filmmakers and actors who came to network and share their vision. Featured films included Swim Team, Injection, Reunion, Parents of the Groom, Colby, Shortwave, The Suitor, The Rainbow Kid, Apocalypse Rock, Jackson, Checkmate, Thunder Road, There’s Too Many Crows and trailers such as S aving Dreams The Monmouth Film Festival weekend started with its industry networking mixer with a great turn out filled with local artists, MFF crew and filmmakers, selected filmmakers and industry representatives from agencies to writers and producers. Speaking with MFF, plans are already in place to expand in size and length - while keeping the high standard of quality selections. Following this event, guests left for the break in films to enjoy Red Bank’s delicious food and festive town. They returned to be greeted by an industry panel Q&A comprised of Bryan DeNovellis (News 12) as the moderator, John R. Green (ABC), David Schoner (NJ Film Commission), Mark Ehrenkranz (NYFCS), Ernest Mingione (SAG), Dani Tenenbaum (Filmmaker/ Writer) and Stacey Maltin (Actress/

Writer). Aspiring and established filmmakers were able to meet these seasoned industry members on the red carpet where they networked, learned how to better hone their craft, and market themselves and their work. Business cards were exchanged and even Monmouth County’s own aspiring high school artists were given the opportunity to gain invaluable insight to help them start their own filmmaking careers. Representatives from the entertainment industry and partnered companies arrived as well, talent and modeling agencies scouted actors and actresses for representation while press gave exposure to artists. Filmmakers interviewed with MFF on the red carpet while live streams covered the large crowds eagerly awaiting screenings. Selected filmmakers spoke to one another along with local artists and students to encourage and share their work, passion and drive. The Festival also held its inaugural awards ceremony. Special guests included Monmouth County Freeholders Thomas Arnone and Serena Dimaso, congratulated the company, its founder and the entire team on their efforts in such a short amount of time to pull together this grand event in the hope of expanding its reach and exposure. Six grand jury awards were given to the top film in each category, along with seven festival awards for audience choice,

Monmouth County Freeholders Thomas Arnone and Serena DiMaso taking the stage at the MFF Inaugural Awards Ceremony, congratulating the MFF team on a successful first year.

Award winning Director Lara Stolman on the MFF Red Carpet with Reporter Siena Rampulla speaking about Swim Team's win for “Best New Jersey Film”.

best screenplay and foreign films. Monmouth Film Festival has already begun preparations for its second annual event, wishing to expand in size, space and films - still keeping its passion for creating a world built by filmmakers, for filmmakers. The 501c(3) non-profit welcomes the help of local businesses and friends across Monmouth County and New Jersey to help grow its mission of educating and inspiring filmmakers. 2017 sponsorship information will be available soon at www.MonmouthFilmFestival.org. For young and aspiring filmmakers, be sure to stay up-to-date on with the company for educational opportunities, including internships and workshops available in the coming months of 2017.

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE www.CommunityMagazineNJ.com

Thurs. Feb. 9th, 11am - 6pm • Fri & Sat. Feb. 10th & 11th, 9am - 6pm • Sun. Feb 12th, 9am - 4:30pm Dearborn Market is excited to once again be hosting the Deep Cut Orchid Society’s Annual Orchid Show. Orchid societies as well as other local and commercial growers will be presenting

SAt., F eb. 11 tH • 6:30pm - 9p m

landscaped exhibits that will be sure to

Help us raise money for the Frances

delight all who attend. Come join us in

Foundation at our Wine & Cheese Benefit.

our warm greenhouse!

The Frances Foundation is a local non-profit that helps bring smiles to kids fighting cancer. Purchase tickets in-store or online today!

2170 Highway 35 • Holmdel, NJ Phone: 732-264-0256 • Web: www.dearbornmarket.com Hours: Sunday - Saturday, 8am - 8pm

DM-0144 Jan 2017 Orchid Show HJ Comm Mag Full PG 4C.indd 1

12/14/16 11:27 AM

Happy New Year!! January is the

coldest month of the year and time for many

indoor events, but I hope you will also find the time to get out and enjoy the greatest winter activities like skiing, sledding and skating. Check the Monmouth County Park System for a schedule of “cool” events - monmouthcountyparks.com.

MARTIN LUTHER KING DAY is always the third Monday in January. Find a way to celebrate the history and civil rights movement in the US this January 16, 2017!

FOR ALL YOU TALENTED FOLKS OUT THERE… America’s Got Talent is coming to New York! January 27-28, 2017 from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Get your tickets at http://agtauditions.com

YOU CAN LAUGH OUT LOUD. LOL.

CONCERTS AT THE BASIE… January 19, 20 and 21 Sebastian Maniscalco’s "Why Would You Do That?" January 29 at 7:00 p.m. John Cleese and The Holy Grail Screening For details on tickets, call Count Basie at 732.842.9000 or go to www.countbasietheatre.org

ON SATURDAY, JANUARY 28, 2017 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, Connectivity Therapy and Holistic Health will be hosting its 3rd Pro Bono Day at 211 Broad Street, Suite 102, in Red Bank. This event will feature 30-minute complimentary CranioSacral Therapy sessions with Dr. Jacquelyn Hines and Jamie Fugowski, Physical Therapists, and 15-minute Chair Massages with Colleen Fay, Massage Therapist from Zen Babies Massage. Appointments will go quickly and are by appointment only. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience CranioSacral Therapy and/or Massage Therapy! For more information, call 732.224.1280.

IF YOU ARE READY TO BE A FEMALE LEADER THIS IS FOR YOU! Starting January 9 through February 27 on Mondays from 8:00 to 10:00 p.m. at Renaissance the Studio, located at 8 East Front Street in Red Bank. Unleash your inner “Gutsy Gal Goddess” and unlock your feminine power through women sharpening women in sacred circles and go to a Gutsy Gal Goddess Gathering at http://gutsyfemininemastery.com. Reserve your spot today!

WATCH LIVE PERFORMANCES FROM THE BOLSHOI BALLET AND MET OPERA AND STAY LOCAL!

Pollak Theatre at Monmouth University | Tickets: www. monmouth.edu/events/arts.aspx Bolshoi Ballet – The Bright Stream Live in HD! January 22, 2017 at 3:00 p.m. Romeo et Juliette Broadcast LIVE January 21, 2017 at 1:00 p.m.

As always I am available to consult with you at your next event that “matters and inspires”! I also love to hear about the events you enjoy and would like me to write about! You can reach me at donna@dnbevents.com. 14

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Immediate Care Medical Walk-In of Red Bank hosts Ribbon Cutting On November 29, 2016, guests joined the executive leadership of Immediate Care Walk-In Management, physicians and clinical staff, along with state and local officials for the ribbon cutting ceremony of Immediate Care Walk-In of Red Bank. The urgent care center, which opened on October 19, is located at 46 Newman Springs Road East in Red Bank, and is the company’s fourth urgent care center. Welcoming remarks were delivered by Immediate Care Medical Walk-In Management CEO, Salvatore F. Cannizzaro, followed by the center’s Director of Medical Services, Dr. Mary Ann Yehl. After the ribbon cutting, staff members provided guided tours of the medical facilities Some of the many public officials in attendance included Senator Joseph Kyrillos, Red Bank Mayor Pasquale Menna, Fair Haven Mayor Ben Lucarelli, Assemblyman Declan O’Scanlon, Red Bank Councilman Edward Zipprich and Monmouth County Freeholder Serena DiMaso. The recently renovated building also houses Immediate Care’s new corporate

offices, which guests also toured during the event. Committed to providing convenient and cost-effective, quality medical services, Immediate Care offers walk-in treatment of non-life threatening illnesses and injuries and provide wellness services such as pre-employment, sports and camp physicals, occupational health services and vaccinations/immunizations. The center is staffed by physicians and nurse practitioners, and is also equipped with x-ray and phlebotomy services. For a full list of healthcare services provided, visit www.immcare.com - Immediate Care Medical Walk-In Management CEO, Salvatore F. Cannizzaro cuts the ribbon to officially open Immediate Care Medical Walk-In of Red Bank. - Immediate Care Medical WalkIn of Red Bank is located at 46 Newman Springs Road East in Red Bank.

Monmouth County Park System to Host WinterFest Cross your fingers and hope for snow! The Monmouth County Park System is hosting its annual WinterFest on Saturday, January 28, 2017 from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Thompson Park, located at 805 Newman Springs Road in Lincroft. This event celebrates the season and all the fun it brings. Family-fun activities for the day include cross-country skiing, nature hikes (possibly on snowshoes), make & take crafts, wagon rides and more. Visitors will also have the chance to meet representatives from winter sport vendors and enjoy live music. Admission, parking and most activities are free. For more information about the Monmouth County Park System or WinterFest, visit www.monmouthcountyparks.com or call 732.842.4000. The Monmouth County Park System, created in 1960 by the Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders, is Monmouth County’s Open Space, Parks and Recreation agency.

Tap Into The Asbury Park Beerfest

Partial proceeds to be given to Jersey Shore non-profit organizations Whether this is your first Asbury Park Beerfest or you had such a blast at last year’s event, you knew you had to be a part of the next one, the premiere “beer experience” is in store for you in 2017. The Asbury Park Beerfest is sure to be a beer lovers paradise, featuring “craft” beers from all over the world, as well as ciders and iconic retro beers and classic boardwalk food. Here’s the quick skinny on the event. The annual Asbury Park Beer Festival is set to take place at Asbury Park’s Convention Hall on the boardwalk January 28 & 29, 2017. There will be three sessions for beer enthusiasts (21 and older) to partake in: Saturday, January 28, 2017 from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m., another session from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m., and one session on Sunday, January 29, 2017 from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. Price per session is $37.50 in advance and $45.00 at the door on the day of the event plus applicable service charges. Tickets to the Asbury Park Beer Festival are available through Ticketmaster.com (surcharges apply). For more information, visit asburyparkbeerfest.com.

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Meet Paul. He is an Engineer/General Supervisor of Reliability Asset Management at JCP&L. That means he’s responsible for managing energy reliability statewide. Since joining the JCP&L Red Bank office in 2006, Paul has taken that responsibility quite seriously. He’s always working – even on holidays and weekends if needed – on solutions that will help ensure even more reliable service for customers. Paul applies that same energy and dedication to his other full-time job: raising his two young sons and teaching them to swim at the local YMCA. Paul is proud to be part of your hometown energy team. www.jcp-l.com

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Is Your Kid Ready for Wall Street? I remember the first time my daughter received her first paycheck. Of course she’s not a 9 to 5 full-time employee at a top 100 corporation sending important emails to clients from her iPhone, but she certainly believes she should be paid like one. In her tough negotiating four-year-old mind, cleaning up her Play-Doh mess should be a well-compensated task. I always imagined what it would be like to discuss the importance of money and earning an allowance with my kids, but let’s just say this lesson was more of a surprise for me than her. One morning after she finished watching a cartoon, my “no patience” perfect daughter told me she wanted an allowance. Great! Now, we can write out a chore chart, I can teach her all about the value of money, and assign her ONE job per week. I figured this lesson would be easy, stress-free and just an introduction into many, many financial topics we would discuss in the years to come. Little did I know I was dealing with a tenacious tot who wanted to work a little and get paid a ton. Before I could get into the principles of currencies and explaining the differences between dollar and coin values, she already started her do-good duties. She even assigned her own tasks along with a fee schedule. Play-Doh pickup averaged two-dollars…a color! Dust-busting to pick up a crumb was another two-dollars. By the end of our first day of chores, I was on the hook for 20 bucks. Her demands for allowance turned into allow-rants and my overachiever… commendable yet very expensive, had to be handed her pink slip (it’s her favorite color). I needed to rethink her job requirements and rates. Here are some tips I learned and want to pass along to other parents about the art of giving an allowance.

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Decide what is a good age that your children can comprehend the meaning of money and what it means to save. If they don’t understand it right away, give them age appropriate tips. For example, before trying to talk cents talk pennies. The only thing they care about is having a lot of coins or bills, not how much they’re worth.

Decide on one chore and come up with a reasonable sum per week. Don’t let your kids manipulate you into paying them for responsibilities they should automatically do. For example, picking up toys or going to bed at a specific time.

Both parents should be in agreement on the amount of allowance to give. If you can't work together, then you can't expect good work discipline from your child.

You are the boss. Be very specific with your expectations, but try not to discourage them from completing a task even if it's not exactly how you would do it.

*Hope Daniels is a Rumson, NJ resident and founder of A New Mom In Town blog – you can read all about her mommy adventures at www.anewmomintown.com.

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Uncovering Hidden Epicurean Delights TAK A ROCKS ASBURY Combine two well-known business owners, Billy Kessler and David Martocci and partner them with Takahiro, a rags to riches success story restaurant owner, put them on the corner of Cookman and Bond Street in the most up-and-coming, happening Jersey shore town, Asbury Park, add a gorgeous bar and impressive restaurant space, and embark on a Japanese epicurean journey hard to replicate in Monmouth County. The floor to ceiling windows, globe lighting, wall to wall mural, along with sake barrels lining the space are enough to impress any first time customer. Enjoy your meal at the bar, low lying banquet lounge, communal tables, or in two different dining rooms. If you are on a date, cozy yourself into a booth in the quiet, brick-walled, dining area for a romantic dinner. Infuse your mind and body with craft cocktails, such as the Blackberry Margarita (macerated blackberries, tequila, agave, fresh lime), which seems to be a fan favorite, or try the house made green tea vodka in the Asbury Green Tea Martini. Taking the lead on some of the server’s suggested apps, we tried the Crispy Spicy Tuna which were pressed, tempura battered rice cakes topped with chopped spicy tuna and jalapeno. They kick up the heat on this dish with beautifully designed Sriracha sauce, eel sauce, and spicy mayo. This was a perfect to share, big bite sized appetizer. We were equally delighted with our other appetizer, the Miso Scallops, which were sautéed in a perfectly balanced mustard miso sauce, served over cucumber with bok choy. After apps, we opted for a specialty roll. The server, who already proved herself to be knowledgeable and genuinely interested in maximizing our dining experience, emphasized trying at least one entrée as well. She suggested, surprisingly enough, mixing it up with the chef ’s special Meatloaf - which she claimed, “this is not your mother’s meatloaf ” or the Short Rib, for carnivore lovers. Since we were there on a spy mission, we decided to try two specialty sushi rolls and these two entrees. The Jun-san roll was sure to please any sushi lover. Tuna and avocado inside, salmon and yellowtail out, topped with spicy mayo, caramelized soy sauce, crunch, and scallions - it was THE BOMB. No wonder they feature pictures of this bad boy on their website! We also tried the Mexican roll. Wait, guacamole on a sushi roll, what!? This roll had the perfect balance of textures. Crispy on the inside from avocado, cucumber, and jalapeno, topped with guacamole and Sriracha. This roll was delicious and a fantastic option for vegetarians. Onto the meat – the Meatloaf was served in a cast iron pot with chopped green beans, mushrooms, onions, in a soy sauce based broth. On a cold winter night nothing can beat this home-style meal. Comfort food overload! I can tell you for certain, we will be back to consume this entrée again. The Short Ribs, as it turned out, were equal, if not better than the Meatloaf. The pull apart, marinated short rib served in a broth over wasabi mashed potatoes and French green beans, was topped with onion straws. Flavor explosion in your mouth! We overindulged big time, but with the help of my partner, we got the job done. Even after all that, we couldn’t leave without at least trying one of the desserts. And there we were again, with our server letting us know details of their homemade desserts, as well as imported gelato (that trumps any gelato we’ve had since a piazza in Italy). We tried the Pretzel Tart and one scoop of black cherry pistachio gelato. The sweet-salty combination of the pretzel crusted chocolate tart was heavenly, topped with caramel and chocolate sauce. The black cherry pistachio gelato was some of the best I’ve ever had, vanilla gelato with fresh pistachios and soft black cherries mixed throughout. Overall, Taka is sure to please, whether you’re a sushi lover, vegetarian, meat lover, or vegan. Appealing to all palettes and stomachs. Taka should be a stop whether you’re on your way to a night out, or coming off the beach on a hot summer day. Come hungry, come thirsty, and leave happy! If you’re lucky, Taka may grace your presence and personally thank you, inviting you back for another exquisite dining experience. Taka is located at 660 Cookman Avenue in Asbury Park. Reservations are suggested. It’s not easy to get in on the weekends, and the weekdays get busier than normal beach town restaurants - a testament to the customer loyalty and their taste buds. Give them a ring at 732.775.1020. Add this one to the Food Spy “must try” list, it’s a delightful experience!

Until next month - live well, eat well, and venture out of your comfort zone a little)

The Food Spy

THE FOOD SPY seeks and finds hidden, and perhaps not so hidden epicurean gems in and around Monmouth County promoting the notion that good wine, good food in good company is one of life’s simplest and civilized pleasures. Sharing these gems is the mission of the Food Spy. The Food Spy is an active contributor for both Zagat and TripAdvisor and accepts input, ideas and gem suggestions from Community Magazine readers and can be secretly contacted at foodspynj@gmail.com.

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To view my other listings, visit my website at www.LouisCritelli.com Louis Critelli, MBA, CRS Broker/Owner at Engel & Völkers Critelli Properties 960 Holmdel Road, Unit 1, Holmdel, New Jersey ljcritelli6@gmail.com www.LouisCritelli.com 732.687.5482 Direct 732.858.8301 Office ©2016 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act.

There’s Something New About

Sea Bright At approximately 4 miles long, yet only 1.1 square miles in total area surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and Shrewsbury River, Sea Bright offers great restaurants, beach clubs, marinas, and service-oriented and specialty storefronts.

There’s something different in the air in Sea Bright, and it’s not just the delicious smell of the ocean. It’s excitement. A series of improvement projects – modern municipal buildings and upgraded beach facilities, a plant-filled streetscape, expanded and sustainable seawall, luxury oceanfront condos, new parking lot – along with a rejuvenated downtown lined with new and exciting stores and restaurants, is creating a buzz like no other in the coastal town’s history. If you haven’t visited Sea Bright for a while, it’s time to come see what the excitement is all about. And you do not have to wait until Memorial Day to enjoy what this town has to offer. Hungry? Stroll through downtown Sea Bright and find food to satisfy every craving, from coffee and donuts to gourmet meals. Don’t want to miss the big game? Head to one of the town’s sports bars to watch your team on the big screen, while enjoying your favorite adult beverage. Feel more like curling up at home in front of the TV? Grab your food to go from the many takeout options. But downtown Sea Bright is about more than just food. Specialty boutiques, banks, fitness studios, a hardware store, a bait and tackle shop, hotel, and more offer browsing and shopping opportunities for everyone. While you’re taking that stroll through the business district, you might encounter construction equipment and roadwork. Say hello to the Streetscape Project. Thanks to a $1.34-million grant from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, Sea Bright is replacing existing sidewalks and adding new ones, introducing pedestrian-level street lights, installing traffic-calming “bump outs” to improve pedestrian safety at crosswalks, and adding new landscaping. The project is scheduled for completion by April 2017. Also on the near horizon are the construction of two new municipal facilities: A new beach building/library–a two-story facility that will also feature an oceanfront deck, storage for police, fire and public works equipment, and meeting space, as well as a municipal firehouse, police and first aid building that will include an extra bay for equipment storage. The second floor will be designated for all borough administration functions and records storage.

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To help protect all this new downtown development, as well as Sea Bright’s residential homes, the N.J. Department of Environmental Protection will soon start work on a $35-million project to expand and repair the seawall in Sea Bright and Monmouth Beach. All this exciting activity and progress is happening during the off season, so just imagine how Sea Bright will roar to life come the summer. Sea Bright’s crown jewel is its beautiful and clean public beach. Free of the chaos that sometimes plagues some other coastal towns, the Sea Bright beach is family-friendly and boasts some of the best surfing and skimboarding waves on the Jersey Shore. Events and activities such as free movies on the beach and the national SkimBash skimboarding competition are popular attractions. If you are looking for more amenities than the public beach alone can provide, Sea Bright is the place for you. Woven into the fabric of the town are its private beach clubs – Sands, Ship Ahoy, Surfrider, Sea Bright Beach Club, Chapel, Driftwood, Edgewater – which offer Olympic-size pools, cabanas, snack bars, private dining and catering services, and much more. Located just south of Sandy Hook, Sea Bright is among the northernmost of Jersey beaches. Unique stores and restaurants; facilities, seawall, and streetscape improvements; pristine public beach and private beach clubs contribute to the town’s appeal. But there is something else, something special about Sea Bright that makes it stand out from other coastal towns. That is its people – the close-knit community with the giant heart who came together after Superstorm Sandy to help one another and rebuild the town they are proud to call home. Their hard work and determination are coming to fruition. Plan a trip to Sea Bright soon, and see for yourself what the excitement is all about.

Felecia Stratton is a writer/editor who has had a love affair with Sea Bright since she moved there 28 years ago.

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JLMC’s Women Making a Difference Luncheon CONGRATULATIONS TO THE COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER AWARD WINNER ARLENE LOSPINOSO FROM FAMILY AND CHILDREN’S SERVICE

Left to right: Lieutenant Governor of New Jersey, Kim Guadagno, Arlene Lospinoso of Family and Children’s Service, and JLMC President Courtney Booth

The third annual Women Making a Difference: Junior League of Monmouth County Community Volunteer Award winner is Arlene Lospinoso from Family and Children’s Service. The award was presented to her by the Lieutenant Governor of New Jersey, Kim Guadagno and a grant of $1,000 was awarded to Family and Children’s Service from the JLMC in honor of her service. The 2016 Women Making a Difference: JLMC Community Volunteer Award luncheon was a resounding success. A sold out crowd of more than 190 gathered at The Shadowbrook at Shrewsbury to celebrate the endeavors of outstanding women volunteers representing 14 organizations. The nominees represented the spirit of volunteerism across Monmouth County, who included: Nancy Chippendale Daly, The Bridge of Books Foundation; Patti Forsman & Carmelina MacPherson, BUC Backer Foundation; Jeannine Grasso, Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide; Teresa Jahns, Monmouth Day Care Center; Mary Jo Kenny, Twin Lights Historical Society; Joan Kret, Helmets 4 Life; Arlene Lospinoso, Family & Children’s Service; Dianne Meserlin, Holiday Express; Kathleen Mullarkey, HABcore Kate Okeson, Make it Better 4 Youth; Gina Petillo, Parker Family Health Center; Dawn Petr, Turner Syndrome Foundation; Donna Saatchi, Lunch Break; and Susan Sorensen, Fair Haven Foundation. The event was sponsored by the following organizations: Bilimama.com, Family & Lifestyle Photography, Gold Coast Cadillac, EBC Printing, Wallflowers, Shannon and Werner Hildebrand, Petrone Associates, Inc, the Guardian Network, and by the JLMC’s Annual Sponsors, The Golden Goose, Almasy Law, Edward Jones, Shop Rite, and Geralyn Behring.

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CHAOS MEETS CURB APPEAL

JAN 14 - FEB 12 WORLD PREMIERE In this wild comedy, the Greek god Dionysus takes form as Diane, a lesbian permaculture gardener from Vermont. With a mission to gather followers and restore the Earth to its natural state, where better to begin than a Monmouth County cul-de-sac and the women who live there?

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www.CommunityMagazineNJ.com JANUARY 2017

The Arc of Monmouth 50th Anniversary

Winter Glow Ball

The Winter Glow Ball Committee. Left to right: Abbey Feiler-Kober, Angie Murphy, Serena DiMaso, Holly Annarella Flego, Mollie Giamanco, Francine Acquaviva, Arleen Fina, Sherry Annarella, Beverly Annarella, Denise Puma, Chrissy Ross, Brett Colby, and Lauren Zalepka

*Photo credit: Pat Paladino

On December 2, 2016, over 200 attendees enjoyed the 50th Anniversary Winter Glow Ball – A Holiday in Monte Carlo, at Eagle Oaks Golf & Country Club. The milestone event paid tribute to the many volunteers, donors and c o r p o rate partners who have sup p o r te d the Winter Glow Ball, and The Arc of Monmouth, for the past five decades. Guests included past honorees John Lloyd, co-CEO of Hackensack Meridian, and Tom Hayes, director of customer and community relations for New Jersey Natural Gas; Freeholder Serena DiMaso; Rachel Weiss, The Arc of Monmouth’s board president, as well as participants from the agency’s many programs. An estimated $200,000 was raised to benefit 1,600 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/ DD) in Monmouth County. In 1966, the Countess Anatole Buxhoeveden organized the first Winter Glow Ball to benefit children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Monmouth County. This year’s Winter Glow Ball marked its 50th anniversary, with “A Holiday in Monte Carlo,” a favorite destination of the countess and her family. Holly Annarella Flego, Winter Glow

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Ball chair and event emcee, is a longtime supporter of The Arc of Monmouth. The agency has been part of her family for many years, with her sister Sherry enjoying recreation services and mother Beverly Annarella chairing the event many years ago. Flego leads the Tuesday Group Committee, a group of 19 other dedicated and passionate philanthropists that has contributed to the success of this event for many years. Throughout its fifty-year history, only five women have chaired the event after the countess, including Holly’s mother Beverly Annarella, Sheila McLoone, Vicki DeNoia, and Anita Roselle, who guided the Winter Glow Ball for a record 25 years. Colleen Ciecura, a longtime participant of The Arc, delivered the night’s keynote speech to a standing ovation. Ciecura spoke of the obstacles she

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has faced as a woman with a disability, and how The Arc of Monmouth gave her the opportunities to grow and become the confident person she is today. Her message of hope resonated with all of the event guests. A highlight of the evening was the annual “Call for Pledges,” as professional auctioneer Nick Dawes, of Antiques Roadshow, spoke of the critical need for vans for the agency. As pledges came in, donor Vincent Puma offered to match individual pledges made toward a new van, and the Anabel Foundation pledged to finalize the purchase. This year’s silent auction went mobile with eBoost events. Guests, either at the event or remotely, bid on almost 100 incredible silent auction items. The exciting live auction was led by Nick Dawes, Antique Roadshow, whose skills brought in $17,000 for The Arc of Monmouth.

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CommunityMagazineNJ.com JANUARY 2017

STORY SUSAN MURPHY | PHOTOS CHRISTINE ENNA

roject Write Now (PWN) held its first fundraiser, “A Night to Remember,” on November 29, 2016 at the Two River Theater in Red Bank. PWN is a non-profit organization that partners with schools and missionbased organizations to provide free writing workshops and services, as well as a free afterschool writing program for local middle and high school students. Through the collaborative efforts of PWN’s founders Jennifer Chauhan and Allison Kehoe Tevald, and Event Planner Donna Beriont of DNB Events, an extraordinary evening of storytelling took place. The stories shared were by chefs, musicians, artists, writers, photographers, students, educators, actors, and community members. Donna Beriont of DNB Events said, “A Night to Remember was a great first fundraiser for PWN. It involved the surrounding communities and gave everyone involved a true ‘project write now’ experience. It involved the locals by giving them a chance to respond to the writing prompt, ‘I remember.’ Prior to the event, memory boxes were placed at local businesses and thousands of people who took part in it got to see their memory either showcased at the

The “I Remember” board featured memories collected on sticky notes from all over the Red Bank area.

event or performed at the event. It was a huge success.” The response from the memory boxes was excellent and thousands came in, noted Donna. She said they also did pop up workshops and used the writing prompt to get even more workshops. “One place we went was Asbury Park to the Women Rock conference at the Convention Center. It was a great experience to meet with people all over and talk about their experiences and share memories with them.” Donna explained that some of the memories were posted on big boards as guests walked in, which had been painted by Red Bank’s Pinot’s Palette and DNB Events. Some memories were written down by the students who greeted guests as they walked in, and then added to the surrounding boards; others were posted on social media prior to the event. “It was an ongoing story from the beginning of the event experience till the event ended,” shared Donna. The performers who participated in “A Night to Remember” included Brian Kirk, a local musician from Brian Kirk and the Jirks; Gilda Rogers, a local activist and talk show host; Juilliard trained pianist Paul DiDario; drummer Michael Sarin; songwriter Gary Philips

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Sfraga; Darren Johnson; Deedee Pie, Aaron Manzo, Dawn Hopkins, and Steve Warendorf of The Downtown All-Stars of Red Bank LLC; intern and actress Maddie Monaghan; intern and poet Eileen Huang; and intern Vivian Parkin DeRosa; as well as RBMS principal Maria Iozzi. “Bringing down the house at the end of the performance was Mychal Mills of KYDS,” said Donna. The musicians’ stories were told in a unique way, beginning with a writing workshop at the PWN studio in Red Bank prior to the event. Donna explained, “We asked them to answer the prompt, ‘I remember,’ and that’s where it began. Jennifer took their work and made it into a beautiful performance. This was also a collaborative effort between the three of us and all the performers. We only had one rehearsal too! It was a very heartfelt experience to be in the room during the performance. The stories were intermingled with music by the RB All-Stars and Paul Di Dario and Michael Sarin. If you were there you heard personal stories from each performer about the death of a loved one or a hurdle they jumped or an experience that shaped their life or a vivid memory - and listening to each performer tell their story brought the people in the

room together. It was a packed room, standing room too. It was very special.” Tickets for this event were $125 per person and included food, drink, music and the performance plus goodie bags. Donna noted that there were, “wines by Gallo Wines and Holmdel Buy-Rite; locally made beer; water and soda donated by Pepsi-Co; cheese from the Cheese Cave; and wraps by Brennan’s Deli in Rumson. The following chefs and restaurants were there to share their food and memory connected with the food. Chino Alban from the Danish Café presented food from his Filipine past; Chuck Lesbriel from Ama Ristorante made ravioli and meatballs and talked about his family recipes; Chez Dechilles from B2 Bistro and Bar made polenta and talked about a fond family memory; Danny’s Steakhouse made two great and tasty soups; Grace Sepe from La De Da Café in Middletown brought mini croissant sandwiches and chocolate croissants and had the Mad Hatter and Alice In Wonderland serving tea with their samples; Gina Brochart from The Vintage Cake made gorgeous and very delicious desserts; and Booskerdoo Coffee and Bakery made coffee and dessert for our guests. We also had Purity Vodka give our guests a taste of their vodka in a themed drink for the evening.” Donna was in charge of securing the chefs/ restaurants and vendors for the evening; getting the gifts and donations for the “making more memories” raffle basket; merchandise for sale; the volunteers; and making sure everything stayed on track from beginning to end. Also showcased at the event were photographers, and art work by Detour. “Our photographers were Jenifer Rutherford, Steve Scanlon, Kerri Sullivan, and Detour Galleries showed an art piece called The Empress. We also had Christine Enna photograph this event.” Donna Beriont of DNB Events shared this about the evening, “People NOW know who Project Write Now is and what they do. It is important since they give back to the kids and businesses in the community. They give free classes and workshops and get professionals to help them with their writing and it also helps self-esteem and raises confidence in the students. The students LOVE PWN and the classes so much that they wouldn’t stop for the summer but insisted on classes year round! It was a true pleasure to work with PWN and to help raise the awareness of the work they do.” Project Write Now would like to send a special thanks to the following sponsors. Under the title of The Nobel Prize were The Cullen Disque Family Foundation; and Victoria and Justin Gmelich. Under The Pulitzer Prize was Metrovation. Listed under The National Book Award title were DefinedLogic; Solari Creative; Paul and Juli Hencoski; and The Housley Chauhan Family. Under The Newbery Medal Award was Dr. David Gentile. Listed under The Pushcart Prize were Silverweb Custom Web Systems; Proodian Healthcare; William G. Bassler, Arbitrator & Mediator; WithumSmith+ Brown, PC; Town & Country Kitchen & Bath; Bricks 4 Kidz; Stock Environmental Consulting; The Spector Family; Jessica and Joan Cichalski; and The Moynihan Kollman White Family. For more information about Project Write Now, visit www.projectwritenow.org.

Students from Red Bank Middle School greeted guests and encouraged them to jot down their “I Remembers” on sticky notes.

The Project Write Now team with Red Bank Borough Superintendent Dr. Jared Rumage (second from right). From left: Lisa Hartsgrove, Allison Tevald, Jennifer Chauhan, and Greg Phelan.

Trenton Beriont with Donna Beriont, event planner for A Night To Remember, and musician Brian Kirk.

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Fashion Showcase JOIN CINDERELLA’S CLOSET of Monmouth County as it hosts its 10th Annual Fashion Showcase on Friday, January 27, 2017 at 6:30 p.m. This year’s event will be held at Addison Park in Aberdeen. Tickets are $50 per guest in advance. No tickets will be sold at the door. In 2017, Cinderella’s Closet will reach an exciting milestone as it celebrates its 10-year anniversary as an organization. The Fashion Showcase is a wonderful way to come together as a community and benefit those in need. Guests will be treated to dinner, wonderful raffle opportunities and entertainment provided by Unique Musique and the Monmouth Regional Concert Choir. Local high school students and volunteers will walk the runway in this season’s prom and special occasion fashions furnished by Castle Couture, Men’s Wearhouse and Paul Mitchell the School - Jersey Shore will provide hair and makeup artists for our models. Their event will also host talented local area high school students as they present their own original prom fashion designs to the runway. It’s truly an evening not to miss! Cinderella’s Closet of Monmouth County is an allvolunteer, non-profit organization, which provides prom attire and accessories to students in need, and all proceeds from the Fashion Showcase event will fund our Cinderella’s Closet Charity Prom Boutique, which is scheduled for March 25, 2017 at Long Branch High School. The goal at Cinderella’s Closet of Monmouth County is to make sure that no high school students have to forfeit the life-long memories associated with attending their prom. For tickets to the Fashion Showcase or for more information about the organization, visit www. cinderellasclosetmc.org.

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DIVORCE SPECIAL NEEDS DI VORCETALK: TA LKCHILDREN : 20 YEARSWITH OF PROFESSIONALISM PR OV I DE D BY P E T E R C . PA R A S , E S Q. BY P E T E R C . PA R A S , E S Q. ON APRIL 1, 1996 Bonnie Reiss, Patricia Apy, and I formed Paras, Apy & Reiss, a Parents with children who have disabilities Professional Corporation for the Practice of often face enormous challenges. Those Family Law. We founded our firm on three challenges can increase significantly when guiding principles. the parents are divorced or separated. Disagreements overarecare, treatments, First, all divorces unique and requireand an schooling are often verytailored contentious. Conversely, approach specifically to their unique some parents becomeSecond, so detached that planning characteristics. communication for the future is fraught uncertainty. Either between lawyer and with client is essential to way, already stressgoals levelsin are elevated, achieving thehigh client’s a fair and adding to feelings of sensory overload. reasonable manner. Third, there is no

Peter C. Paras Peter C. Paras

substitute for preparation. are committed Special needs children areWe entitled to certain to knowing the case betterschool than anyone elsebut in benefits from the local district, the room, whether it’s a conference room or a what if the parents live in different districts courtroom. and services are better or greater in one than

is a shareholder in the is a shareholder in the Family Law Firm of Family Law Firm of Paras, Apy & Reiss, P.C. Paras, Apy & Reiss, P.C. Selected as "Super Lawyer" Selected as "Super Lawyer" by NJ Monthly 2006 – 2016. by NJ Monthly 2006 – 2016. Included in Best Lawyers in Included in Best Lawyers in America 2015 - 2016 America 2015 - 2016

the other? What if neither district adequately Twenty years and nearly two thousand provides for the child’s unique needs? Do other cases later, we are as committed to these federal, state, or local programs help fill the principals, in providing effective professional gaps? And what about insurance?

For more information please For more information please see the firm’s website at see the firm’s website at www.par-law.com. www.par-law.com. The information in this The information in this article is not intended as legal article is not intended as legal advice. For legal advice you advice. For legal advice you should consult your attorney. should consult your attorney.

representation to family law clients, as we Do when the we parents agree about what our the were began. Over the years child’s needs are or do they sharply disagree?

partners and associates have represented clients throughout New Jersey and in several Depending on the level of disagreement, the states and foreign countries in a variety of issue about which they disagree, and the relative matters ranging from large asset divorces to importance of the issue to the child’s overall high conf lict custody cases and just about best interests, court may be their inevitable everything in between. destination.

have cases through We How areresolved decisions made about negotiation, later in life mediation, arbitration, trial appeal. issues? For example, provisions and for children Frequently clients are referred to us by who will never be able to live on their own other must lawyers come to in us advance, on theirinown because be made, or often years anticipation of our reputation for being legal of the day when parents are unafraid no longerofyoung challenges that mayenough overwhelm other lawyers. enough or healthy to provide care, or When a client his or herdied. case These to us inevitably, after brings the parents have it is generally because our reputation for decisions, difficult in anyofcontext, can become professional advocacy, our experience, and highly emotional and divisive. our commitment to our founding principles.

When one parent is involved and the other is Firm not, or lawyers when one are is concerned and of the many other members is not, how are decisions about care made? Is professional organizations, including it for one parentAmerican to shoulderAcademy virtually the thefair prestigious of entire burden Lawyers (whether worry, decision-making, Matrimonial and the International or cost) while the other gets a pass? And how can

PARAS, APY & REISS PARAS, APY & REISS

20 Years

of Professionalism

Bonnie M.S. Reiss Peter Peter C. C. Paras Paras Selected as "Super Lawyer" by NJ Monthly 2006 - 2016 Patricia Apy Included in Best Lawyers inE. America 2015 - 2016 Patricia Apy Michael J.E. Fleres Selected as "Super Lawyer" by NJ Monthly 2006 - 2016

2015 ABA Grassroots Advocacy Award recipient

Elissa A. Perkins Michael J. Fleres Elissa A. Perkins

2 Bridge AvenueBank, • The Galleria Suite 601 • Red NJ 07701 Suite 601 • Red Bank, NJ 07701 Tel: 732.219.9000 • Fax: 732.219.9020 Tel: 732.219.9000 • Fax: 732.219.9020 www.par-law.com www.par-law.com

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A Professional Corporation For The Practice of Family Law 32

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a detached parent be forced to be involved? That is difficult to achieve. It is only through use of money as an incentive and a motivator that these burdens can be more fairly allocated. And when there is disagreement or a lack of cooperation, only a court can use economic leverage to get a parent to meet his obligation. It is important to realistically assess and anticipate a child’s special needs so that, if disagreement or discord looms, court action should be taken early enough for it to make a difference. Waiting to the last minute is never a good idea. In this context, it could be catastrophic.

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IS AN ACTING CAREER RIGHT FOR YOUR CHILD? ADVICE FROM PA R E N T E X P E R T S . BY ANGELA LOMANGINO & ROBERT GENGERKE

You ought to be in pictures…. It’s an age-old declaration made about many children, bestowed by proud grandparents and echoed by doting uncles and aunts: “She ought to be in pictures!”

e hear the words; we nod in agreement, without question. But should she be in pictures? Actually pursuing an acting career is a bit more complicated than just putting your child in front of a camera and coaxing a tentative smile. Some kids hate it. Others really do seem to be perfect for show business — but their parents don’t know where to begin. What should parents know before embarking on this path for their children? For answers, we listened to the unique perspectives of three parents — Marilyn, Vicki and Susan — whose children have had successful acting careers. Marilyn’s daughter has worked mostly on print jobs; both Vicki and Susan have a son and a daughter in the business, with bookings not only in print but also on camera in commercials, television shows and films. All three mothers have placed their children in various training programs and audition scenarios; they all have met with widely

varying results, and have different feelings about their experiences overall.

Why did you start out on a show business path for your children? Marilyn started her daughter in the business because she heard the same thing not only from relatives but from many friends: “Everyone kept saying, ‘she’s so cute, you should put her in acting.’ When she was two years old I started looking into it.”

year-old when she announced that she was interested in doing voice acting. “We were watching a lot of animations, and she decided that she wanted to try voiceovers.” Susan brought her daughter to a local school/modeling agency. Her son was nearly two years younger, but he started trying out as well.

What’s the right age for a child to begin?

What age is appropriate? Is there When Vicki’s daughter was an infant, people often remarked on her a “magic” age when you know a child appearance. “Look at those beautiful is ready? Is a four-year-old too young? ringlets, look at those big blue eyes! “Maybe four or five, when they start She looks like a porcelain doll — you developing their own personalities” should have her in the business.” When is a good age according to Marilyn. her daughter was around three years “It’s more fun for them when they’re old, Vicki decided to bring her to younger, and you’ll kind of get a feel for auditions “just so I could say that I did it.” if they want to get involved or not.” Her son was five years old and tagged Vicki bases her advice on the child’s along. He got the first bookings. ability to work in the environment. “If Susan’s daughter was a shy eight- they can sit still, can take direction and

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want to be there, then you know you’re doing the right thing. After one or two times, you know if it’s not for them.”

Do you really need an agent or a manager for your child? Some parents, like Marilyn, begin the process on their own; however, Marilyn is unusual in that she had experience in the music business, managing acts. Vicki’s children have worked with the same manager since they began. Vicki prefers a manager because “A manager can work with multiple agencies, whereas if you just go to one agent, then you’re only with that one agency.” Susan advises that committed management is the secret. At first, her children tried working through a couple of talent agents. They changed from one manager to another, and finally found that a third manager “really made my son take off. She put him out there.” Her son is still affiliated with the manager.

will have a sense of what they will encounter. In addition, she says, “It’s good because then you see their personalities and see if it’s something they want to do. You kind of see if they are fit for it. You really get to know you child’s personality, and you’ll know if your child is going to act and do something in front of somebody else.” Vicki‘s children have attended small camps, as well as participating in school performance activities such as the chorus. She notes: “I’m not in a position where I can go out and spend $700 on a class [for] each kid, every 3 months,” although she appreciates the value of classes. When Vicki’s son took a basic commercial class, she saw that he felt more confident. “[At auditions] He knew what they were talking about. They asked him to read the monologue and he knew to look into the camera, he knew to say his name and he did, he blew them away. He was prepared.”

Of course, there are some risks when it comes to classes. Susan’s experience was that the cost was exorbitant — and that the time and effort didn’t justify the results. In particular, she warns, “The pictures were the real racket. They charged us an arm and a leg for How important is parent pictures, they did a whole photo shoot, involvement? they had a portfolio — which you don’t All three mothers urge that parents need when you’re a kid.” On the other make a commitment to the process hand, basic skills were a plus: “They of auditions. Vicki and Susan both taught my kids how to walk into a room, emphasize the need for business stick out their hands and say ‘Hello, my supervision — making sure that name is—‘ and meet people. To this accounting is handled, vouchers day, it has been beneficial to them. It reach the manager, that payments always makes an impression.” arrive promptly and so on. Susan further cautions that “If you and your husband are both working, do you What about show business training have somebody to take your child to for adults? auditions?” Susan’s first experience with an While Marilyn agrees that parents need to be involved, she also points agent was helpful because they ran out that the focus must remain on your a “parents’ evening” complete with child’s needs. “Parents need to stop informational packets distributed so living through their children and let that everyone would have a better their children guide them and figure understanding of what was involved. out what they want and where they Marilyn took a class introducing her to want to be. The more you push a child, the “business of show business” — and reports that it “really opened my eyes. the harder it is for them,” she observes. It helped me with a lot of the decisions that I made.”

Is training for your child useful? Marilyn likes the idea of on-camera training for children, so that they

Vicki agrees; “That’s a fabulous idea. When we started, I was given a book. I was told to read the book — which I did, cover to cover. When it’s yourself, you

would look in a newspaper maybe and go on an audition — but not with kids. You hear horror stories of things that are being run that are shabby.”

Are your children still in the business? What are they doing now? Marilyn: “My daughter loves art. She sketches cartoons. She’ll stay up to the wee hours of the morning just drawing.” Susan’s daughter has decided that she prefers working behind the camera and has worked in several capacities behind the scenes; Susan’s son is currently in college, but maintains his SAG-AFTRA membership so that he can accept union work in the future. Vicki: “My kids are still pursuing [work in the industry]. They really do like it all. They honestly do.”

What’s the bottom line? All three mothers feel that the experience has been beneficial to their children. Marilyn feels that her daughter “was able to experience acting on-camera and see behind the scenes. That’s a memory that she’ll live with.” Susan thinks that “going to auditions was good for them. There’s a lot of rejection involved. You learn to deal with that.” Vicki concurs, reporting that — for her children — the experience has built their confidence, and that “they have nice little college fund savings.” There’s another, less tangible bonus to the experience. As Susan points out: “We’re still friendly with almost everybody that we’ve come in contact with. We ran into some lovely people that we’ve remained close with over the years.” Angela Lomangino is the Director and Robert Gengerke is the President of TVTalent3 (http://tvtalent3.com) which provides adults, teens and kids with performance workshops in TV, film, stage & business presentations; TVT3 classes are now available at the Count Basie Theatre in Red Bank as well as in New York City.

ANIMAL ADVOCACY: A YEAR IN REVIEW FOR ANIMAL SUCCESSES

Provided by Kathleen Schatzmann NJ State Council Director The Humane Society of the United States

e have made such incredible progress for animals in the US through the collective work of animal welfare groups including The HSUS. Work abroad is also expanding at a rapid and ambitious pace with the help of our global arm, Humane Society International (HSI). To start the new year on a high note, I would like to share some of the extraordinary international success that has been made for animals. HSI helped achieve a temporary ban on dog culling and animal fighting in Bangladesh, implemented a ban on imports of foreign dogs for breeding and commercial use in India, helped spay/neuter approximately 52,000 animals in Asia, and approximately 225,000 dogs were vaccinated in Asia as part of HSI’s street dog program. We spayed or neutered an additional 15,000 dogs and cats in Latin American countries, including Guyana, Bolivia, Chile, Puerto Rico, and Ecuador. We also provided treatment at emergency clinics for approximately 1,500 animals in Haiti following the devastation of Hurricane Matthew.

Our work to end the cruel dog meat trade continued full force as we rescued and cared for 175 dogs and cats bound for slaughter at the annual Yulin festival in China, and flew 111 of these amazing survivors back to Canada to be placed in forever homes. We also assisted local Chinese partners in the rescue of more than 3,000 dogs and 3,000 cats from the dog and cat meat trade. We permanently closed down our largest dog meat farm to date in South Korea, rescuing and re-homing 250 dogs, and helped five farmers transition out of the trade into humane livelihoods. Last month, Mexico’s Chamber of Deputies ap-

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proved national anti-dogfighting legislation taking the country a major step closer to a countrywide ban on the barbaric practice. HSI also helped enact animal cruelty legislation in El Salvador, including a dogfighting ban and the requirement that animal welfare be included within public school curricula. Similar legislation was also enacted in Honduras that included a dogfighting ban and protection for all species of all animals, including wildlife and farm animals. India’s Supreme Court upheld a prohibition on Jallikattu, where bulls are subdued by young men, often resulting in injury to the bulls and people. We persuaded the state of Goa in India against legalizing bullfighting. In Assam, also in India, we succeeded in getting a court order to ban bulbul fights, where tiny songbirds are starved and forced to fight each other, and buffalo fights, where hundreds of bulls bleed profusely and are severely injured. We helped end the Kots Kaal Pato fiesta in Mexico — a 100-year-old festival in which animals were hung-up like piñatas and beaten to death, and have committed to collaborate on humane alternatives to celebrate the fiesta. We rescued 199 animals from cruelty situations in Mexico, and 300 animals from cruelty situations in Costa Rica. Our work to close global markets for seal products kept seal fur prices depressed in Canada and another 330,000 baby seals survived the annual slaughter, as a result. We helped increase and add protections for 113 species at the 2016 meeting of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), including pangolins, barbary macaques, African grey

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parrots, African pygmy chameleons, arboreal alligator lizards, silky sharks, thresher sharks, devil rays, and more. In a marker of continuing momentum for our anti-ivory-trade campaign, the parties approved a resolution recommending the closure of domestic ivory markets that contribute to elephant poaching and the illegal ivory trade — the first time that a United Nations body has agreed on the urgency of shutting down ivory markets worldwide. We successfully pushed for a ban on the domestic ivory and rhino horn trade in France and in all French territories, making France the first European country to implement such a ban. HSI’s team of scientists and policy experts work with countries everywhere to replace outdated animal tests with cutting-edge non-animal techniques. HSI helped enact a ban on cruel and obsolete rabbit eye and skin testing for drugs in India, and bans on animal testing for cosmetic products and ingredients in Taiwan and the State of Para in Brazil, with a commitment from the Australian government to follow suit this year. With this type of incredible momentum, we know 2017 will be the best year yet for animal welfare. For more information, visit www.humanesociety.org.

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It Takes Two

RCDS Students Cite Teamwork as Key to Securing Finalist Award at Forensics Festival SCENE: Twelve-year-old Sophia, a Rumson Country Day School sixth grader, rises to a platform to deliver her final line. She subtly glances down at her partner Kathryn, who gives Sophia a reassuring nod. The audience looks on in absolute silence, captivated by the pair of student performers in front of them. “I’m going in there a nervous little girl and coming out a star!” Sophia announces as she throws her hands in the air for dramatic effect. Spectators express their praise with applause. END SCENE.

Kathryn’s mother Nina is thrilled with the confidence building activities that RCDS offers. “No one seems scared and I think that speaks to the program. In the short time that Kathryn has been as RCDS, she’s found a niche, formed relationships and has the courage to perform in front of people she doesn’t know. It’s impressive.” According to Forensics Coordinator Rebecca Andrews, Forensics highlights the many strengths of student performers, such as public speaking posture and diction. Sophia was in character when she proclaimed her stardom. However, she “These are skills that our students use every day, whether it’s presenting could easily relate her role to her personal circumstances. On December 3, a project in the classroom or having a discussion one-on-one,” she said. 2016, Sophia and Kathryn collaborated to secure a finalist award at the an- “The key is to make learning fun. We play interactive group games to refine nual Forensics Festival hosted by The Rumson Country Day School. About technique. Working together builds confidence and facilitates teamwork – 45 students from four schools competed for top honors in three categories, important qualities that we address at RCDS at a young age.” including dramatic pairs, storytelling, and humorous interpretation of literAfter three months of practice, Foature. rensics culminates with the annual Festival to give students an opportu“Performing can be nerve-wracking. nity to showcase their talents. It’s a challenge to convince an audi“The Forensics Festival is competience that you’re someone else, espetive but encouraging,” observed Kathcially without a large cast, said Sophia. ryn’s mom. “I saw students cheering on “Working with a supportive partner in others from different teams. Of course dramatic pairs allows you to tackle someone is going to win, but seeing that challenge together.” them work together and show sportsmanship…that’s what it’s all about.” Sophia’s partner Kathryn is a new student at RCDS. She credits Forensics Nine out of 10 students are collectively involved in extracurricular prowith making her transition a smooth grams at RCDS. The next extracurricexperience. “Not only does Forensics ular competition hosted by RCDS will allow me to practice performing in be a Debate Tournament on February front of an audience, it gives me the 4, 2017. opportunity to work closely with a partner and make new friends.”

With the support of nonprofit, Focus for Health Foundation, Fearless Parent will be hosting “A Conversation about Childhood Vaccination” in January. Talking about vaccines can be uncomfortable but it’s important to share information so that parents can make informed choices and help move this conversation in a positive direction. The event will gather compelling and well-known voices on childhood vaccination and everyone in the community is encouraged to attend. The event is scheduled for January 24, 2017 from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m. at the Two River Theater. General admission is $50. Attendees will meet expert panelists, exhibitors, and attend a Q&A presentation. Visit the website for full details at fearlessparent.org. Parents are taking a more proactive role in learning more about vaccines. They are concerned and are asking difficult questions about risks, injuries, and exemptions. “We want to keep our children safe, get them well, and raise thriving, healthy families. Vaccination is a serious medical intervention and a private medical decision. Controversy has kept this issue in the dark. Parents want to shine a light on the topic and learn more so they can make informed choices. Parents and professionals are gathering to share knowledge and tell our stories”, states Louise Kuo Habakus, founder of Fearless Parent and author of the bestselling book Vaccine Epidemic. To learn more, visit fearlessparent.org or email info@FearlessParent.org.

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Winter Fun in the Parks at RCDS...

we appreciate the

WINTER FUN HEATS UP when the temperature drops and snow flies in the Monmouth County Park System. Whether you’re looking to fly down the sledding hill, strap on your cross-country skis, or lace up your ice skates, the Park System is the place to be. Open when there are two or more inches of snow, hours for the sledding hill in Holmdel Park in Holmdel are 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Sunday through Thursday and 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

Individually Unique

Please be aware that these activities are offered only when conditions permit. Be sure to visit www. monmouthcountyparks.com for the latest updates on conditions.

ATI

The fun really starts after a week or so of freezing temperatures when Holmdel, Shark River and Turkey Swamp Parks post their “Skating Today” signs. Hours for ice skating are 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Ice skating isn’t the only fun to be had! Manasquan Reservoir, Thompson Park and Turkey Swamp Park open for ice fishing in designated areas. Always check with park rangers before heading onto the ice.

Need equipment? Head over to Thompson Park in Lincroft where cross-country ski and snowshoe equipment is available for rent at the Ski Hut, located next to the Three Barns Parking Area. Rentals are available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. weekdays; and 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. weekends. The cost is $15 to rent ski equipment and $10 for snowshoes. Skis and/or snowshoes are available on a first come, first served basis. Conditions permitting, the Ski Hut is open through March 11, 2017. For more information, please call 732.842.4000, ext. 4312.

Groomed trails are open to cross-country skiers at Thompson Park in Lincroft, and Charleston Springs Golf Course in Millstone, as weather permits. Marked, ungroomed trails are available for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing at Clayton Park, Upper Freehold; Hartshorne Woods Park in Middletown; Holmdel Park in Holmdel; Huber Woods Park in Middletown; Shark River Park in Wall; Tatum Park in Middletown; and Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold.

Nursery through Grade 8 35 Bellevue Avenue . Rumson, NJ 07760 732.842.0527 . www.rcds.org

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www.CommunityMagazineNJ.com JANUARY 2017

MERIDIAN HEALTH AFFILIATED FOUNDATION

Hosts Record-Breaking Gala Raising $1 Million

Anne Litwin and Gordon Litwin, event honoree and co-chair, Hackensack Meridian Health Board of Trustees

Dr. Stephanie Reynolds, subcommittee member and medical director, Emergency Department at Riverview Medical Center, Dale Wegener, subcommittee member, Meredyth Armitage, event honoree and Maureen Lloyd, subcommittee chair

Members of the Hackensack Meridian Health leadership team gather at the 19th Annual Meridian Health Affiliated Foundations’ Gala. Pictured from left: John Lloyd, FACHE, co-CEO of Hackensack Meridian Health; Joseph Stampe, president and chief development officer of Meridian Health Affiliated Foundations; event chair, Steven Littleson, FACHE, president of the Hospital Services Division and chief operating officer of Hackensack Meridian Health; vice chairs, Kenneth Sable, M.D., MBA, FACEP, president of Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Dean Lin, MHA, MBA, FACHE, FCPP, regional president of Ocean Medical Center and Southern Ocean Medical Center, Michael D’Agnes, FACHE, president of Raritan Bay Medical Center – Perth Amboy & Old Bridge, Joseph Coyle, senior vice president of Realty at Hackensack Meridian Health, Timothy Hogan, FACHE, president of Riverview Medical Center and Bayshore Community Hospital, Robert Adams, FACHE president of Southern Ocean Medical Center; with Robert Garrett FACHE, co-CEO of Hackensack Meridian Health

he Nineteenth Annual Meridian Health Affiliated Foundations’ Gala, Innovation Has No Boundaries, was held on November 19, 2016 at the Ocean Place Resort & Spa in Long Branch and raised more than $1 million, a record for the event’s 19-year history. The signature fundraising event benefits programs and services at Hackensack Meridian Health’s Monmouth, Ocean and Middlesex County hospitals. This year’s Gala recognized the Meridian Health board members (from 1997-2016) for the incredible work they have done to bring Hackensack Meridian Health to this pivotal point as a health care organization. Now as one integrated network, Hackensack Meridian Health provides people with a more robust continuum of care by harnessing

Meridian Health’s and Hackensack University Health Network’s collective knowledge and resources. “Our trustees are such an essential part of our organization,” shares John K. Lloyd, FACHE, co-CEO of Hackensack Meridian Health. “It was such an honor to be able to recognize them this year. As a result of their leadership, commitment and strong vision, we have taken this tremendous step forward as Hackensack Meridian Health.” “The cultural synergies between Meridian Health and Hackensack University Health Network have contributed greatly to a successful merger as Hackensack Meridian Health,” shares Robert Garrett, FACHE, co-CEO of Hackensack Meridian Health. “It is with great thanks to the trustees, and our community of

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Joseph Simunovich, co-chair, Hackensack Meridian Health Board of Trustees, and Pam Simunovich

donors, for building and maintaining this strong culture that is going to help Hackensack Meridian Health transform and elevate the level of care provided to patients.” “I am beyond proud of the hospital presidents and event committee that worked tirelessly to make this a record-breaking success,” explained Steven Littleson. “Philanthropic support is vital to ensuring we can care for our patients in an exceptional way that includes the most innovative technologies and compassionate care. To see the community come together with the mission to make a difference is truly inspirational and will make an impact for years to come.” To learn more about Meridian Health Affiliated Foundations, or to make a gift, visit www.MeridianHealth. com/GIVE.

The Ashley Lauren Foundation’s

6th Annual Butterfly Ball On Saturday, February 25, 2017, beginning at 6:00 p.m. at the Ocean Place Resort and Spa in Long Branch, guests will gather for The Ashley Lauren Foundation’s 6th Annual Butterfly Ball “DANCING FOR OUR STARS.” This fun-filled event provides an opportunity for attendees to enjoy an evening of fine food, drink and entertainment while raising funds for and increasing awareness of The Ashley Lauren Foundation’s mission of providing Hope & Help for Children with Cancer in NJ. Brian Kirk and the Jirks will provide the music and guests will be able to bid on many unique auction items. Monica Vermeulen, Founder/CEO stated, “This is an evening not to be missed. We have many exciting things planned for the Ball. A new and exciting component will be our ‘DANCING FOR OUR STARS’ competition, where our performers will be dancing to raise money for the ‘Stars’ of The Ashley Lauren Foundation – Our Children! Our dancers will be paired with professional dancers and will have to earn the most votes pre-event and at the event to win the People’s Choice award. Then they will be judged on performance ability at the event to win the Judges Award. It will be lots of fun cheering on your favorite dance couple along with cheering on our amazing Ashley Lauren Foundation children.” The goal of The Ashley Lauren Foundation is to ease the journey when pediatric cancer is diagnosed by providing direct financial assistance (household bills, medications not paid through medical insurance, traveling expenses to and from hospitals, funeral expenses, etc.); material assistance (food, clothing, household items); emotional support (for the entire family); four major seasonal parties for the children and their families (Spring Party at the Boardwalk, Summerfest, Harvest Party, Holiday Party); advocacy; “Making Dreams Come True” Program; birthday brigade (gifts, cake, balloons delivered personally to each child); special outings; hospital parties; holiday gifts for the children and anything else that is needed to make their lives easier and bring smiles to their faces. Watch for more upcoming details about the 6th Annual Butterfly Ball and the dance competition at www. ashleylaurenfoundation.org. For more information about how you can get involved in The Ashley Lauren Foundation, call 732.414.1625.

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RBR Holds Important Panel Discussion on Issues of Film Audrie & Daisy DOCUMENTARY DEALS WITH TEENAGE SEXUAL ASSAULT, CYBER BULLYING AND SUICIDE

Pictured are the RBR staff members and Panel members who discussed the sensitive and important issues presented in the film Audrie and Daisy. They are (left to right): RBR Source Director Suzanne Keller, who moderated the program; RBR Student Assistance Counselor Lori Todd; Heather Church, Monmouth County Traumatic Loss Coalition Coordination The Community YMCA; Claire Casey, Sexual Violence Prevention Coordinator, 180 Turning Lives Around; Barbara A. Cashin, Director of Program Development at Tranquil & Quest, Bradley Beach; and Shawn Murphy, Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office.

In November, The Red Bank Regional School District (RBR) invited the community to view a very provocative documentary dealing with the issues of teenage sexual assault, cyber bullying and suicide. While these issues have caused national headlines on college campuses, this film deals with the true stories involving middle school and high school students. The powerful film was heralded at the Sundance Film Festival and is available for rental on Netflix. A panel of professionals, moderated by RBR SOURCE Director Suzanne Keller, discussed the important issues presented by the film. RBR Principal Risa Clay welcomed the audience to the program explaining, “We need to start this conversation, to talk to our boys as well as our girls and to explain everything we can about social media and its footprint.” Audrie Potts was a 14-year-old freshman from Saratoga, California in 2012 when she went to a party and consumed excessive amounts of alcohol. In a comatose state, she was sexually assaulted while several boys defiled her body by drawing vile statements in sharpie marker and then took pictures with their cell phones, which quickly surfaced on the internet. Within a week’s time, when Audrie discovered the extent of her humiliation, she had committed suicide. Her parents sued the perpetrators in a wrongful death case to “get her reputation back.” The defendants’ admissions and apologies were part of the documentary. Daisy’s mother commented, “The only reason we were successful is because Audrie is no longer with us.” Earlier that same year, 14-year-old Daisy Coleman and her 13-year-old friend Paige Parkhurst were each sexually assaulted in Maryville, Missouri by older high school boys when they attended a party with alcohol. The girls went to the

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hospital and reported the rape but the case was not successful in a town where the boys had political and community connections and protection. As a result, Daisy was viciously tormented in social media for “the trouble she caused” and her family’s house was subsequently torched and burned to the ground. She attempted suicide several times. She did not settle in a safe state until another teenage rape victim, found her via the same social media that nearly destroyed her life. The girls formed a support group with other girls who had suffered the same horrific crime and torment. Together they found empowerment and self-preservation. RBR convened a panel of professionals to discuss the disturbing truths of the film and the resources teenagers and parents have in the Monmouth County community to combat it. Heather Church-Soto, the Director of DCP&P Services for the Monmouth County Traumatic Loss Coalition at the Community YMCA stated, “It has not been a great year when it comes to the death of our kids. All that you saw is happening here.” Principal Clay emphasized that the most important thing is “to continually educate our students.” She assured the audience that the school does this. By law, the subject of safe dating is covered with every senior in health class. There are Board of Education policies covering social media usage and bullying. As the tragedies in the film were sparked by teenage underage drinking, parents were counseled to closely monitor their students’ social activity, even if it can be construed as “spying on them.” Barbara A. Cashin, Director of Program Development at Tranquil & Quest of Bradley Beach commented, “Feel free to search their rooms and look in their phones.” Claire Casey, the Sexual Violence Prevention Coordinator of 180 Turning Lives Around, added that teenagers would be most likely to confide in a friend than an adult, so it is important to be able to check your child’s online accounts. While alcohol can be blamed for poor judgment in teenagers, Claire Casey stated, “Most students do not know that having sex with someone inebriated or passed out is illegal.” Barbara Cashin emphasized that point stating, “When alcohol and drugs are part of it, then consent does not make any sense. All bets are off; they don’t have the ability to say no.” Shawn Murphy from the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office explained that in the case where a young man believes the situation is mutual, he must understand that the statement “no means no,” is no longer enough, stating, “We need to teach young men to ask for verbalized consent. It can’t be a gray area.” Regarding sexual assault, 180 Turning Lives Around provides many free resources for victims including a 24/7 day a week hot line. It also runs a safe dating program for middle as well as high school students which any school district in Monmouth County can access.

RFH World Language Panel Extolls Benefits of “International Mindset”

Presenters Mark Jeffers, Gianna Maita, and Sue Finley at the second annual RFH “World Language in Our Community” panel discussion.

THEY FOLLOWED DIFFERENT PATHS to embracing world languages, yet they all arrived at the same conclusion – having an “international mindset” is a huge advantage in today’s global marketplace. Five distinguished guests participated in the second annual “World Language in Our Community” panel discussion at Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School in November. Student attendance was optional, and – in a repeat of last year - there was a “standing room only” crowd. The panelists shared their career and life experiences as they related to world languages and cultures, and participated in a followup question and answer session. This year’s panelists were Sue Finley, Taylor Forry, Mark Jeffers, Gianna Maita, and Greg Thomas. “If I could go back in time, I would be sitting right where you are and taking the study of language very seriously,” said Thomas, who is a Supervisory Special Agent for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). “The World Language program you have here at RFH is amazing, and I agree wholeheartedly that a forum like this is highly beneficial. Your language skills will set you apart and open many doors for you.” Taylor Forry, who works with Thomas as a Special Agent for the FBI, speaks Mandarin Chinese and Spanish. He immersed himself in the Chinese language and culture by studying abroad in Beijing while in college. “All of the success that I have had in my career can be traced back to a single point in time – the day that I decided to begin studying Chinese,” he said. “Speaking the same language as someone else gives you an instant connection, that spark that shows trust and understanding.” Mark Jeffers is an RFH alum and President of Zodiac Aero

Evacuation Systems in Wall Township. Zodiac is a major supplier of aircraft seats, evacuation slides, oxygen systems, and more to aircraft manufacturers in the U.S., France, Germany, Russia, China, and Brazil. “Don’t ever think that you won’t be using world languages in your work,” said Jeffers, who once assumed that knowledge of a second language would not be crucial in his chosen field of engineering. But when he traveled internationally in his work with the F16 aircraft, he met colleagues who spoke at least three languages - and some as many as seven. Jeffers had attended French classes at RFH but did not continue his study of French in college. At the age of 40 he signed up for classes at the Language School in Red Bank, determined to be a star pupil and help ensure his social and career success. “I work closely with young people at our sister company in France and our factory in Mexico, and many of them speak multiple languages,” he said. ”One thing I want to stress today is that you need to embrace the study of world languages and cultures in order to compete effectively.” Sue Finley was encouraged to pursue language studies by her father, a high school French and Spanish teacher who served in World War II and became trapped behind enemy lines in Italy. “For some of us, not knowing the language may be a matter of ‘how do I order a cup of coffee?’ – but for my dad in the war it was literally a matter of life and death,” she said. “He spoke no German or Italian, and he never forgot that feeling of not being able to communicate. He studied language upon his return and then advised me to do the same.” Finley began studying French in seventh grade and graduated with degrees in French and Journalism from New York University, where she was named the school’s top French student in 1984. She is the co-founder of an international newspaper, the Thoroughbred Daily News, which is now read by thousands of people in 180 countries. Finley travels to Normandy and Paris several times a year on business and speaks French fluently. “The study of language can take a lot of years, but just know that if you stick with it you will eventually ‘get’ it,” Finley told the students. Gianna Maita is a member of the RFH class of 2011 and a 2015 graduate of Georgetown University where she majored in Justice and Peace Studies with a minor in Arabic. She recently completed a research fellowship in Nicaragua where she used her knowledge of Spanish to conduct interviews with students and staff at the Universidad Centroamericana in Managua. She also has varying levels of proficiency in French, Italian, and Afrikaans. “If you can, take the opportunity to study abroad,” said Maita. “It will not only help you build language skills but also broaden your world view.” The second annual “World Language in Our Community” panel discussion was organized and presented by the RFH World Language Department.

www.CommunityMagazineNJ.com JANUARY 2017

Rumson Sisters Share “Amazing” RFH DANCE TEAM EXPERIENCE

There was a lot to cheer about recently as the Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School football team enjoyed a record-breaking championship season. Sharing in the excitement, and thrilled to be experiencing it together, were sisters Malen and Mara Grubaugh of Rumson.

(Top row, left to right): Jane Pavluk, Mara Grubaugh, Malen Grubaugh, and Katie Pierson; (Middle row, left to right): Heather Dailey, Olivia Mitterando, Sage Basri, and Greer Shanley; (Bottom row, left to right): Tess Duffney, Sara Safarian, Saige Bess, Emily Weis, and Kate Thompson. (Missing - Jane Russo).

Sisters Malen and Mara Grubaugh of the RFH Dance Team.

And for one of the senior girls, Mara is a member of the RFH Dance Team, and Malen is the team’s first- getting to know Malen influenced a ever Manager. Malen’s appointment potential career path. was a dream come true for the “Katie Pierson was Mara’s Dance Grubaugh family, as Malen and Team ‘big sister’ and became friends Mara attend different schools. Mara with Malen as well,” said Grubaugh. is a fifteen-year-old sophomore at “Katie has now expressed an interest RFH and a member of the Dance in becoming an occupational Team. Eighteen-year-old Malen has therapist and working with special Down syndrome and attends The needs clients. This was something Midland School. she never realized she had a desire Malen and Mara share a love of to do until she met Malen. Again, dance and have taken lessons for so much goodness triggered by a coach and a sister with big hearts, years – Malen in a special needs understanding, and acceptance.” class at Family Resource Associates in Shrewsbury, and Mara at a local As Team Manager, Malen is dance academy. in charge of keeping the girls’ spirits and energy up. She is also “For years, both of my girls have responsible for everything from been on the sidelines for one taking attendance to making sure another’s performances,” said the girls’ mother Laurie Grubaugh. “They that all the dancers are wearing the correct hair bows and paw stickers. are one another’s biggest fans. And when Mara joined the RFH dance And it is up to Malen to give the “go ahead” confirming that the girls are team as a freshman, Malen had a new sideline to watch her sister from.” ready before music begins playing for their half time performances. Malen enjoyed attending RFH “After Malen’s first dance team football games and watching Dance practice, I knew that we had made Team practices last year. This year, as the right decision by selecting her as Mara began her sophomore year, she Manager,” said Costa. “Even when and Jen Costa – the RFH Dance Team Coach – had a conversation about we are freezing during a football game, Malen’s smile encourages the Malen and how she could become girls to give 110%. The team looks to involved. Malen not only as a manager but “I knew nothing about this in as a teammate, friend, and sister. I advance, and when Coach Costa approached me with the idea it see the girls looking out for her and wanting to know how her school day brought tears to my eyes,” said was, her favorite song … just simple Grubaugh. “I just couldn’t believe teenage girl talk. As we begin our that my girls would have a chance basketball and competition season, to do what they both love and do it together! This was the very first Malen will be present – she is a key part of the RFH Dance Team and opportunity Malen had to be involved when she is missing we are not in an activity at her hometown school complete.” and with her sister. It was amazing.” Grubaugh expressed appreciation According to Grubaugh, the for an experience that has enriched team embraced Malen – and as so many lives. much as Malen has learned from “It is truly amazing how much the girls on the team, the girls have Coach Costa has done for both of learned even more from her. This my girls and for her team by just past October, Malen and the Dance being kind,” said Grubaugh. “I am so Team members worked together to very proud of Malen and Mara, the support Down Syndrome Awareness girls on the team, and Coach Costa. Month. Malen provided bracelets My hope is that there will be more to the cheerleaders and dancers to promote awareness, acceptance, opportunities like this for students with special needs in our community.” and inclusion – and Coach Costa made blue and yellow ribbons for all of the girls to wear as well.

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RBR Girls’ Soccer Team Awarded Shore Conference Referees Association Sportsmanship Award For its fourth consecutive year, the Red Bank Regional (RBR) Girls’ Soccer Team qualified to play in the State Tournament. However, they recently registered an even more valuable accomplishment as recipients of the Shore Conference Referees Association’s Sportsmanship Award. RBR’s soccer team was

chosen from among the 40 or more teams represented in the Shore Conference. RBR Coach Nick Tucker states of his players, “It is exciting. I always knew I had good kids with high character; this just speaks volumes as to who they are and how they were raised.”

PHOTO: Left to right: RBR Athletic Director Del Dal Pra and Girls’ Soccer Coach Nick Tucker with the Girls’ Soccer Team co-captains: Grace Dengler, 18, Little Silver, Emily Bynoe, 17, Shrewsbury, and Hannah Proodian, 17, Red Bank. The RBR Girls’ Soccer Team was recently honored with the Shore Conference Referees Association’s Sportsmanship award. They are the only team to receive this honor among the more than 40 teams in the conference.

Holy Cross School Penny Harvest Benefits African School

Homerooms 6A and 6B, highest contributors to the Penny Harvest, with the big blue collection buckets

Give a bunch of kids brown paper bags and empty buckets, and there’s no telling what they might do with them. In this case, they filled them with $2005 worth of loose change! In early November, Mrs. Maryjane Gallo, Grade 6 teacher at Holy Cross School and co-founder of the Tawawami Children’s Project, a non-profit organization whose sole purpose is to assist underprivileged developing communities, sent each student home with a small brown paper bag. She asked the children to collect pennies from their piggy banks, cup holders, couch cushions and car seats. At the end of the month, the children brought their bags back to school and poured the coins into their individual homerooms’ big blue buckets. Several Grade 7 students, as part of their service commitment for the sacrament of Confirmation, generously volunteered their time sorting the coins and lugging them to the bank. The

Grade 7 students, left to right, C.J. Mauthe of Rumson, Julian Mattioli of Colts Neck, Meghan Feddeler of Monmouth Beach, Hugh Straine of Rumson, and John Lista of Fair Haven at the bank awaiting the total.

totals revealed Homerooms 6A and 6B did the most penny-pinching, and they were rewarded with a delicious ice cream cake made by their Spanish teacher and Baking Club instructor Mrs. Jacqueline Saives. As a whole, the school raised $2005. The name of the Tawawami Children’s Project comes from the Swahili words Tazama wafungaji na watoto mijini meaning, “urban and pastoral community.” The Project's motto stems from a Maasai phrase, "Eyamuai Amu Edimai" meaning “Decide because it is possible.” It began when Mrs. Gallo spent several months teaching in Tanzania with the Catholic Medical Mission Board, which inspired her to give this outside project the resources needed to provide a better education for the children there. So the Project’s first endeavor was to build a grammar school in the Ilemela District of Mwanza, Tanzania. Indeed, that goal was possible, because it has already been reached!

Now, subsequent funds go to outfitting the school with water, electricity, glass windows and all the necessary tools for learning. The Project’s long-term goal is to build a boarding school to attend to the educational and housing needs of vulnerable and disadvantaged children in Tanzania. For more information, please visit www.tawawamiproject.org. Because the Penny Harvest took place just after Hurricane Matthew, Holy Cross School wanted to share some of the funds raised with families affected by the storm. With a little searching, Mrs. Gallo found St. Frances de Sales, a Catholic church in Lumberton, NC that had several displaced parish families who were grateful for the assistance. Since Hurricane Sandy affected many families at Holy Cross in 2014, this, along with Mrs. Gallo’s personal stories, photos and videos from Africa, was great motivation for the children to empty their pockets.

www.CommunityMagazineNJ.com JANUARY 2017

RBR Source and BUC Backer Foundation Partner to Help Their Own for the Holidays The Red Bank Regional School District (RBR) conducts numerous community service activities during the holidays from helping homeless families in Monmouth County, buying livestock to address world hunger, creating holiday cards for kids in hospitals and sending stockings stuffed with sweets to our troops in the Middle East. But they also look inward, and through a partnership with the SOURCE and the BUC Backer Foundation, RBR helps fill wishes for families within our own school who would otherwise not know such happy holidays. Susan Keller, The SOURCE Director states, “For years, we would learn about families in need, either from our own students using the SOURCE services, guidance counselors, our teachers and community members. Our clinicians would gather the wish list for all members of the families and donation Requests were hung on a holiday decorated ‘Giving Tree’ for donors to fulfill.” Two years ago, the RBR BUC Backer Foundation joined forces to help administer the program and grow it exponentially. The Foundation’s SOURCE liaison Claire Harbeck Izzo brought the program virtual with Sign-Up Genius, which effortlessly allowed people to sign-up for gifts they would buy. The sign-up is disseminated through both the Foundations’ Constant Contact, website, Facebook page and the RBR internal emails. The results were mountains of gifts personally purchased for 26 families this year which RBR parents and staff personally shopped for and wrapped.

Claire Harbeck Izzo adds, “I appreciate that the privacy of the SOURCE has never been compromised as we (the foundation) have no idea who will be receiving the gifts.” Suzanne Keller adds, “The partnership works wonderfully as our goal is the same, to meet the needs of RBR students and families and take care of our own.”

Through a partnership of the RBR SOURCE and the RBR BUC Backer Foundation, the holiday wishes for some RBR families will be met this year. Pictured with a mountain of donated gifts from RBR staff and parents are: (left to right) BUC Backer member Judy Noglows, Little Silver, SOURCE Youth Development Specialist Lori Lopez, RBR SOURCE Liaison Claire Harbeck Izzo, Little Silver, and SOURCE Director Suzanne Keller.

Knollwood School Winter Concert Blends Fun and Tradition

“Do you hear what I hear?” It’s the welcome sound of talented student-musicians at Knollwood School presenting their annual Winter Concert.

at Knollwood School and directed by Mel Chayette (Orchestra Director), Karen Hauge (Choral Director), and Sara Marino (Band Director).

Knollwood students and their Directors can always be counted on for exciting new twists on holiday classics and popular tunes. This year was no exception, as audiences enjoyed rollicking performances by a large ensemble of talented musicians in fourth through eighth grade.

“Our Knollwood musicians and performers are tremendously talented,” said Knollwood School Principal Amy Romano. “Our Music Department directors are not only gifted but they inspire our students to perform at levels that far exceed their grade level. The concert was enjoyed by all who attended.”

The Knollwood School Winter Concert was held in December

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Eric LeGrand is pictured surrounded by just a few of his fans: (left to right) Ella Brockway, Little Silver, Richard Bakalian, Bradley Beach, Dontrell Alston, Red Bank, Jalen Willis, Neptune City, Luke Jurek, Little Silver, Tyrese Morris, Al Zager, ESQ Class of 1966, RBR Principal Risa Clay, Dr. Bill Setaro Class of 1966, Evenel Garriao, Red Bank. Eric’s visit was made possible in part with a grant from the Red Bank High School Class of 1966.

Eric LeGrand Brings Message to RBR of Hope, Optimism and Triumph On December 7, Red Bank Regional High tors wrong. Today he breathes on his own has it worse. I appreciate being able to take School (RBR) was proud to welcome Eric and demonstrates just how much progress a breath each and every day.” LeGrand, the star Rutgers’s football player he has made in regaining movement as he He also refused to criticize football, statwho, paralyzed from an injury sustained shimmies his upper body all around in his ing that he would do it all again, as “football during his junior year in 2010, went on to wheelchair. gave me so much and made me the man I lead a most inspirational and consequential “I am lucky.” He stated, “I can continue to am today.” He also holds no enmity toward life. He is a motivational speaker, supports go to therapy. Most people on regular insur- the player involved in his injury telling the a foundation to find a cure for paralysis, and ance only get 30 visits.” students, “I was the one who tackled him.” works as a sports broadcaster. His visit was When a student asked if he could eat solid When asked who his mentors are and who made possible, in part, by a grant from the food he replied, “Did you see this gut?” gives him inspiration, he named his menRed Bank High School Class of 1966. And he is determined someday to walk tors as Tim Tebow and Tommy Moffett, both Following a biographical video, Eric en- back on High Point Solutions Stadium and sports celebrities who he was honored to tered the RBR stage and described the “finish the play.” meet and get to know. But, his most devout fateful day and play that changed his life inspiration is reserved for his mom. When asked if he was ever depressed or forever. In a soft-spoken voice, he recountHe stated, “Everything she does, she does ed the moment of impact to his head when bitter, he recounted the stories of two peo- for me—learning how to take care of a ple he encountered during his journey to rehe suddenly could no longer take a breath. covery. One he never met, but witnessed the paraplegic, bringing me here, helping on He recalls, “My head coach told me to pray, pain and suffering of her loved ones, when the foundation, taking care of a puppy. She and I thought my life was over.” they realized that the young woman who gave up her life for me. She is my inspiraHe described the blur of the next few was rushed to emergency did not survive. tion and my motivation.” days when he would wake intermittently to He never wanted his loved ones to endure Eric LeGrand encouraged the students to a room full of doctors and later to an empty that pain. Then in rehab, he met a spirited live their lives to the fullest, to enjoy high room filled with noisy machines. Then, final- young man who became his good buddy. school and to accomplish. He explained ly one day he opened his eyes to the delight They would hang out in his room togeth- that he was able to finish his degree via of smiling loved ones and teammates. He er since Rutgers treated him very well pro- Skype, and that dictating all his term papers was excited that the former coach of the Gi- viding satellite service for TV and Xbox for was not easy. ants came to visit him. He considers him- entertainment. Weeks after his discharge, He concluded his visit telling the students, self fortunate for not initially knowing the Eric met his friend at an out-patient, wheel- “I believe everything in this world happens magnitude of his condition in those early chair-fitting only to discover that his friend for a reason. I was put here to help. Christodays. He had broken his C3 and C4 verte- no longer recognized him. Eric explained pher Reeve, Superman, started this research brae. that his cancerous tumor, which caused his before he died. I feel I took over his job. I He explained, “I was the lucky one, the initial paralysis, had spread to his brain; he want to live out his dream and keep raising people around me suffered. The doctors died soon after. money and awareness. Live your everyday told my mom that I would never walk or eat He told the students, “It put a lot of things life. Be the best you can be. Be appreciative solid food or breathe on my own.” in perspective. I decided I would never com- for every moment. And don’t ever let anyWith the grit and determination instilled plain again. Focus on the things you do body tell you (that) you can’t do something.” into him from years of practicing his be- have and not on the things you don’t. For loved sport, he decided to prove the doc- whatever you have someone else always

CommunityMagazineNJ.com JANUARY 2017

LITTLE SILVER

BAG BRIGADE This year’s Little Silver Bag Brigade was a huge success! Little Silver Schools donated 530 bags to Covenant House in Asbury Park, which was in dire need of supplies. The Little Silver community came together to help others and teach their kids the Spirit of Giving, in an event that is now becoming a town tradition.

CBA & TRINITY HALL STUDENTS RAISE $7,500+ FOR TROOPS 10TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY FUNDRAISER TO SUPPORT OUR TROOPS, HONOR FALLEN ALUM

On December 6, 2016, CBA and Trinity Hall’s Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) chapters teamed up once again for the 10th annual “Dinner for the Troops.” “This event has become a proud CBA tradition that continues to inspire each and every SADD member,” said Dominic Esposito ‘18, Community Service Chair and member of CBA SADD. Each year, the event epitomizes what the holidays are all about: gratitude and goodwill towards others. Convening in the CBA cafeteria, students handled all the preparations and cooking for 240 attendees, while raising over $7,500 in the process. All funds raised will go towards supporting servicemen and servicewomen stationed overseas. The evening also featured guest speaker Sgt. Melissa Leist, a veteran of Operation: Enduring Freedom, who shared her thoughts on military service. Under the supervision of SADD moderator Mr. Frake, the event was almost exclusively run by student volunteers. While there was plenty of fun to be had, the Academy men knew they were working towards an important dual purpose. “We often see war reported on TV as some distant event in some distant place,” said Dominic Sepko, a CBA senior and president of

CBA SADD. “Dennis [Zilinski] and his impact on the lives of the people around him showed that the troops overseas are often closer to home than we might think. We owe it to those defending our freedoms to make every effort possible to try to help them as best we can.” LT Dennis W. Zilinski II ‘00 was a CBA and West Point alumnus, killed in action while serving in Iraq in 2005. The event is held in his honor each year and his memory lives on in our Academy tradition.

BOOKS TAKE CENTER STAGE AT SICKLES SCHOOL THE ROWAN FAMILY AT THE PTA BOOK FAIR

Viola L. Sickles School in Fair Haven has celebrated yet another highly successful PTA Book Fair. Once again, students demonstrated their love of reading by clamoring for a variety of books in many genres.

Scholastic Publishing, the Book Fair was held in November. “Family Night,” an event that allows parents and siblings to take part in the fun, was held on the evening of November 15, 2016. As always, Family Night was a “door-buster” success.

Sponsored by the PTA and featuring titles from

The Knollwood School Book Fair is scheduled to take place in April 2017.

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Many students and families took the opportunity to purchase books for use in the classroom as well, using the teachers’ “Wish Lists” as a guideline. This year’s Book Fair at Sickles School was organized by PTA Book Fair Committee members Jen Baron, Vicky Hays, Heather Lombardo, Kerry Maguire, and Sheilah Olson.

Ranney Robotics Dominating Field Across All Grade Levels Fifth-graders Lily Aspen of Manasquan and Parson Glover of Red Bank and won 1st place in the elementary division, among 64 competing teams, at the December 3 VEX IQ competition in Linden. Above, they compete on Ranney School’s campus on November 19.

The 2016-17 Robotics season is showing signs of major growth throughout New Jersey, with Ranney School teams hosting and leading in competitions across the game field. In November, 84 Middle School teams and 64 elementary teams from across the state came to Ranney’s Tinton Falls campus to participate in the largest VEX IQ competition to take place in New Jersey to date. The VEX IQ curriculum, a snap-together robotics system that accompanies the upper-grade VEX design-and-build system, has only been around for four years. Ranney students earned a 1st place, three 2nd place, and two 3rd place wins, among other top-10 honors at the event. Winning teams included: • 1st Place: Team Harambe IQ featuring Shailen Verma, 7th grade, of Rumson and Zachary Baron, 7th grade, of Marlboro • 2nd Place: Team Real Steel featuring David Tansey, 6th grade, of Manalapan, and Anthony Sallustio, 7th grade, of Wayside (Christian Virone, 6th grade, of Howell was not present at the competition, but instrumental in the design and programming) Team Fire Catchers featuring Syena Schaad, 5th grade, of Spring Lake and Brooke Lembo, 5th grade, of Colts Neck / 2nd Place: Team Red Rover featuring John Welch, 5th grade, of Freehold and Luke Buda, 5th grade, of Red Bank • 3rd Place: Team Undecided2 featuring Rishi Sondhi, 7th grade, of Freehold, and Brandon Klatsky, 7th grade, of Colts Neck / Team Moonstruck featuring Sal Principato, 5th grade, of Colts Neck, and Leo Hernandez, 5th grade, of Ocean. At the more recent December 3rd VEX IQ local competition, sixth-graders Nick Burniewicz of Lincroft and Andrew Pepe of Atlantic Highlands, took 1st place in the Middle School division, among 71 teams, while fifth-graders Parson Glover of Red Bank and Lily Aspen of Manasquan won 1st place in the elementary division, among 64 competing teams. The event was held at Linden’s McManus Middle School.

Shailen Verma, 7th grade, of Rumson and Zachary Baron, 7th grade, of Marlboro won 1st Place at the November 19 VEX IQ Local Competition, featuring 84 Middle School teams.

Ranney fifth-grader Elijah Landers of Little Silver checks his robot before competition. Ranney School has five faculty members trained in VEX and VEX IQ system robotics and four classroom-labs dedicated to its award-winning program.

RBR Students Send Holiday Cheer with Cards for Hospitalized Kids Every year, the RBR student body takes a break from lunch and study to create homemade cards for children who will be spending their holidays in hospitals. This national initiative was adapted by RBR teacher Jennifer Casaine over four years ago. She is assisted by RBR Teacher Cassandra Dorn. The national Cards for Hospitalized Kids program began five years ago and has sent cards to over 100,000 hospitalized children throughout the United States. Mrs. Casaine states, “I thought this would be a great way for our kids at RBR to do something here at school for others their own age during the holidays.” Pictured above are some of the RBR students with Ms. Casaine creating their homemade holiday wishes. They are (left to right): Nicole Gaillard, Union Beach; Saloni Ajami, Millstone; Sammie Feder, Millstone; Shelley Banfield, Shrewsbury; Charlotte Jansky, Little Silver; Dannielle Wolf, Shrewsbury; Jennifer Casaine, Kay Franzese, Monmouth Beach; Jael Cross, Red Bank; Ash Riegler, Union Beach. For more information on this program visit the website: www.cardsforhospitalizedkids.com.

CommunityMagazineNJ.com JANUARY 2017

Banner Season for Fall Sports at Forrestdale

The Forrestdale School Fall Sports Teams dominated the field hockey and soccer fields this year living up to its mission of “igniting potential”. The Forrestdale Girls soccer team concluded its season with a record of 10-0-1. The team went undefeated in the American Conference to clinch 1st place. Coach Meg Siclare noted, “The team’s grit, dedication, and skill led them to the playoffs.” Forrestdale first defeated Little Silver in the SemiFinals in Golden Goal overtime to advance the team to finals. The championship game was full of intensity and heart from the players on the field and the spirited cheering from the sideline. Forrestdale defeated Manalapan 3-2 to earn the title: Monmouth County American Conference Champs! The field hockey girls played the entire season with heart and passion, ending the season with a record of 13-0. The team won its division as well as the league Championship.

Coach Peggy McKean said this about the girls, “They were a delight to coach and fun to watch. I am proud of the team and lucky to have such a great group of girls as well as a supportive school, families and community.” The Boys Soccer Team was 10-0 and undefeated division and conference champs. This is only the second undefeated division and playoff championship ever for the Forrestdale Team. The last time was in 1999, when the team was still a club team. Athletic Director, Mr. Judge Ellis said this about the banner season, “This season is just an indicator of the level of dedication our students and coaches give both on and off the field. I couldn’t think of a better group of students to represent Forrestdale in such a victorious season; we, as a school, are all very proud of their accomplishments.”

RBR Continues Decade-old Tradition of Gifting to Families at Linkages for Holiday Season This holiday season, the Red Bank Regional (RBR) community continues its decade-long tradition of ensuring that there are plenty of presents under the Christmas tree for the families at Linkages, an organization in Tinton Falls that houses homeless parents and their children. RBR English teacher Cassandra Dorn, who organizes the program, states, “So many members of our RBR family participate in the Linkages program as part of their regular holiday gift-giving. We supply the first name and age of a child and the wish list and our staff members and students ‘adopt’ the children and families and go holiday shopping. This year, 58 children in 29 families will directly benefit from the generosity of the RBR community.” For several weeks in December, a stream of gifts flows in and out of theRBR English office.Several teachers and Honor Society advisors organize their classes and groups to adopt families; this year, students in the Spanish and French Honor Societies also put together nearly 30 stockings filled with candy to sweeten the holiday for each unit at Linkages. Ms. Dorn and her father have made it their own special holiday tradition to fill their cars and transport this largess to Linkages two or three days before Christmas. RBR English Teacher Cassandra Dorn displays a small portion of the hundreds of gifts RBR staff members and students give to the families of Linkages each year.

She comments, “During the holiday season, many people look for opportunities to give to the less fortunate. Shopping for a child’s wish list can be more personal and gratifying than making an anonymous donation. Each year, the RBR family seems to embrace that special feeling of goodwill, and 2016 has proven no exception. To borrow a famous movie line, 'We’re going to need some bigger cars.'”

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“STOPit” Cybersafe Rallies Presented at Knollwood School Sergeant Rich also addressed the help students protect and empower themselves by managing today’s topics of bullying and cyberbullying, technology in a safe and constructive urging the students to be careful and way. Using teachable moments, “think before they click” when posting Sergeant Rich helps bridge the gap on social media. “Bullying is all about between students and the adults perception – we are all different,” he responsible for them – with the goal of said. “What it comes down to at the encouraging students to be more open end of the day is allowing people to be different and respecting them for it.” about their online activity. Sergeant Tom Rich, an internationally recognized expert on internet safety, presented STOPit Cybersafe Rallies to students and parents at Knollwood School.

“STOPit Cop" Tom Rich, an internationally recognized expert on internet safety, shared his message with students and parents at Knollwood School on November 29th. Sergeant Rich has dedicated his career to educating today’s youth about internet dangers through STOPit Cybersafe Rallies. STOPit Cybersafe Rallies are dynamic, energetic presentations designed to

At two daytime rallies for students in fourth, fifth and sixth through eighth grades – and an evening event for adults – Sergeant Rich shared the consequences of misusing technology, social media, and popular apps such as Snapchat and Yik Yak. Using his own cell phone and an interactive presentation, he demonstrated how students can make their devices safer. Sergeant Rich warned that it is easy to fall into a trap and share private information with strangers online – especially when gaming. He urged students to reach out to a parent or other responsible adult when on online missteps do occur. “Don’t be secretive about your internet usage,” he warned.

“The issue of cyberbullying is really not about devices -- it’s about behavior.” An 18-year veteran of the Summit Police Department – where he served as a D.A.R.E. Officer, Juvenile Sargent, and Juvenile Detective – Sergeant Rich has been a keynote speaker at over 700 events nationally and has been featured on Good Morning America, CNN, and Fox Television. His message has been heard by over one million students around the world. More information about Sergeant Rich and STOPit Cybersafe Rallies can be found at stopitcyberbully.com. The STOPit Cybersafe Rallies at Knollwood School were made possible by the Fair Haven PTA.

RBR Students Send Stockings of Sweets to Troops in Middle East “With all of the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s easy to forget those serving our country and

fighting for our freedom. My students and I wanted to make sure that some special soldiers feel remembered for

Christmas and the holiday season,” RBR Spanish teacher and Spanish National Honor Society Advisor Lisa Boyle explained. She and her National Spanish Honor Society students joined forces this year with RBR French teacher Gil Thomas’s French National Honor Society students to stuff stockings filled with sweet treats donated by the students. Thirty stockings are on route to the Middle East for fellow New Jerseyan Chris Wutsch’s army unit in Qatar. Ms. Boyle and he have been friends for years. This is one way that she and RBR students can connect to the selfless Americans who serve abroad in our armed forces and are missing their families and friends for the holidays.

www.CommunityMagazineNJ.com JANUARY 2017

Thank You from J. Vincent Jewelers!

Another year, a peaceful holiday season has passed. We celebrated our 10th anniversary at J. Vincent Jewelers, and once again we would like to thank you for your support and loyalty to our small town business. May God bless you and your families, may you always remain happy and in good health. Our success would not be possible if it were not for you, so from the bottom of our hearts, thank you for letting us be a part of the special moments in your life that you have celebrated with jewelry from J. Vincent! Looking back over the year, my staff and I have many things to be grateful for. This was a banner year for us in creating engagement rings for couples ready to commit on a new journey in their lives. We worked on many designs to benchmark anniversaries and birthdays. Our Center of My Universe Diamond collection made in partnership with Forevermark was a huge success! Personalized jewelry for moms and grandmothers were consistently busy throughout the year. I often boast to my peers in the industry of how creative and imaginative our clients are - dreaming up pieces incorporating Paraiba Tourmaline, Tsavorite, Mandarin Garnet, Kashmir Sapphires and Rubies to name a few. I am inspired by your bold and unique ideas for design, and being entrusted by you to bring these wonderful pieces to

life is an amazing privilege that we will always cherish. Your passion for fine jewelry inspires me, it’s what makes me wake up with excitement to get into my shop and work on a new project. Another wonderful experience this year was my invite by DeBeers to tour their Victor Diamond mine in northern Ontario. It was during this trip that I developed an even greater appreciation for all of the arduous tasks that go into extracting this wonderful mineral from deep within remote regions of the earth’s surface. I am also very proud to know and express to each and every one of my clients that through the Forevermark process, each and every individual involved in the evolution of a beautifully crafted diamond is and will always be treated with great respect. And it doesn’t stop there, conservation of the environment and the wildlife in each mine’s region is handled with delicate care. It’s reassuring to know that your diamond has made a positive contribution to the lives of people who have touched it along the way. All of us at J. Vincent Jewelers look forward to the new year, new beginnings and celebrations of birthdays, anniversaries and holidays, which will enlighten us to create unique, fine jewelry to benchmark these wonderful occasions after all, ”A Diamond is Forever”!

Left to right: Justine Mulkeen, Joe Brando, Veronica Baldini and Meaghan Hughes

Consider this 2017 resolution if you haven’t already - embrace your individuality. Let your jewelry be an expression of who you are, an expression of your unique individual style. Your unique style has been trending since the day you were born. Cheers and good health to you, your family and friends. May 2017 get you closer to your dreams. May peace, kindness and respect grow in each and every one of us. Thank you for the awesome privilege to be your jeweler!

Love, Joe Brando

Monmouth County SPCA Names New Executive Director The Monmouth County SPCA Board of Trustees has announced that effective immediately, interim Executive Director Chief Ross Licitra, has accepted the permanent position of Executive Director of the Monmouth County SPCA. During his months of provisional leadership as interim Executive Director at the shelter Chief Licitra immediately began working on efficiencies and analyzing costs. In the 12 months, adoptions were up by 16%, ongoing operational expenditures were reduced 11%; notwithstanding, 617 cases of animal cruelty which were investigated in Monmouth County. After a lifetime career in law enforcement, Chief Licitra came out of retirement to come on staff at the MCSPCA in May of 2015. He brought more than 30 years of experience to his job as Chief of Law Enforcement, most recently as a lieutenant in charge of narcotics with the Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office. In the past year, Chief Licitra has led, effectively prosecuted and rescued animals in dozens of cruelty

investigations, most notably one this past June in Howell where nearly 300 dogs were saved from a hoarding situation. Daran Haber, Monmouth County SPCA Chair President adds, “We are confident that Ross’s experience, knowledge, and integrity will provide strong leadership at the MCSPCA, and look forward to continue working with him in order to fulfill our mission of protecting animals and serving the residents of Monmouth County.” In addition, Robert Baerenbach, Vice Chair President says “He is a leader with a concrete vision of sustainable growth for the MCSPCA, and is decisive about the actions that need to be taken.”

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Looking for things to do in the Winter? Lots of great things right in our own back yard.

Ice

Sleigh riding:

Cross Country Skiing: Thompson Park - Lincroft

Atlantic Highlands Elementary School Wolf Hill Park - Oceanport Cemetery Hill - West Long Branch Holmdel Park - Holmdel Tower Hill Church - Red Bank

Skating: Pier Village - Long Branch

Ice Boating: Navesink River - Red Bank

23 West River Road, Rumson, NJ 07760 USA

ELIZABETH LUBIN SALES ASSOCIATE

c. 732.236.9330 | o. 732.842.8100 lizlubinhhsir@gmail.com ElizabethLubin.com

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