RUMSON | FAIR HAVEN | LITTLE SILVER | RED BANK | SEA BRIGHT | LOCUST
BEHIND THE MUSIC
Bruce Gallipani of Rockit showcases local young rockers
Winter is Eventful
Rumson’s AJ Muss
is heading to the
Olympics!
How to keep the kids busy
Because We Know Local Matters FEBRUARY 2018 EDITION
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Suit up for Winter Surf at Lucky Dog! We got all you need for your upcoming vacation! Gift cards available to use towards lessons, rentals, and merchandise
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Thurs. Feb. 8th, 11am - 6pm • Fri & Sat. Feb. 9th & 10th, 9am - 6pm • Sun. Feb 11th, 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
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be presenting landscaped exhibits that will be
Help us raise money for The Frances Foundation
sure to delight all who attend. Come join us in our warm greenhouse!
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at our Wine & Cheese Benefit. The Frances Foundation is a local non-profit organization that helps bring smiles to kids fighting cancer. Purchase tickets in-store or online today!
2170 Highway 35 • Holmdel, NJ
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LIST LOCAL
· SELL GLOBAL™
E E AL OM S H R FO RED U AT E F
10 Belknap Lane, Rumson, NJ | Presented at $4,000,000
Welcome to ‘’Longue Vue’’. This spectacular Custom Designed Estate was meticulously built by the owner, a renowned builder, with great attention to detail and sparing no expense
in the finest in materials. With over 14,000 sf of living space, inclusive of Lower level and finished 4th level, this home offers the perfect balance of form and function while offering a home which is uniquely suited for both entertaining and daily living. Great attention was incorporated into the architectural design to provide unique formal and informal rooms,
with interior design by Sally Bacarella Design Studios. Appointments include,9 Bedroom Suites, 12 bathrooms, 8 Full and 4 half baths, Elevator servicing all floors, Hammered copper ceilings in Kitchen, Solarium accessing west lawn and pool, Library, In-law Suite & much more.
UNDER CONTRACT
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
222 Bryn Mawr Avenue, Lavalette, NJ $849,900
110 Norwood Avenue, Elberon, NJ $12,700,000
88 Montrose Road, Colts Neck, NJ $8,995,000
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
FOR SALE
80 Rumson Road, Rumson, NJ $2,999,000
216 Doe Trail, Morganville, NJ $1,899,900
11 Colts Drive, Holmdel, NJ $1,299,900
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 ©2018 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.
C O LT S
NECK
|
HOLMDEL
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LINCROFT
97 Apple Street, Suite 2 Tinton Falls, NJ 07724 Tel: 848.456.1071 | Fax: 732.852.2571 CommunityMagazineNJ.com editor-in-chief
CAROLYN BU RT N I C K
creative director LORI DON N ELLY
20
Rockit Founder Bruce Gallipani Showcases Local Rock ‘n’ Roll Talent
38
32 From Early Retirement to the Olympic Games, Rumson’s AJ Muss
graphic designers ERICA PAR KER OL IVIA MA Z A N EC
photography TOM ZAPCIC PHOTO GR A P HY MELISSA AMORELLI PHOTOGRAPHY KIM L EVIN PHOTO GR A P HY
general manager MARIA CO N N O R S
advertising L IL IANN PA R AS CATHY PA D I LLA
contributing editors SU SAN M U R P HY SHANNA PO LI GN O N E HOPE DA N I ELS
intern
House Tour Raises Funds for VNA of Central Jersey’s Hospice Program
monthly features 14 Pet Celebrities
JU L IANNA M EI N Z
publisher VICTOR V. SC U D I ERY
59 Meet Your Neighbors
Carmine & Phyllis Visone
18 Eventful 34 Divorce Talk 40 Living Well
COVER PHOTO AJ MUSS | PHOTO CREDIT MIHA MATAVZ
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 Community Magazine takes no responsibility for the content of any advertisement nor does it guarantee the accuracy, veracity or truthfulness of any statement made in any advertisement. Any and all liability for any claims resulting from the content of any advertisement published by Community Magazine is solely the responsibility of the advertiser. Community Magazine is owned and operated by Direct Development, LLC.
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FOR SALE | $779 $77
SALENJ| 07704 $939,000 SALE | $865,000 812 River Road,FOR Fair Haven, | 49 Country Road, RouteFOR 537 West, Colts Neck, NJ 07722 812 River Road, Fair Haven, NJ 07704 | 49 Country Road, Route 537 West, Colts Neck, NJ 07722 • 732-530-6300 | Colts Neck Office • 732-252-2460 Fair Haven Office 12 Way, Little Silver| Colts Neck Office 924 Teaberry Lane, Brielle • 732-530-6300 • 732-252-2460 FairWinding Haven Office
29 Woodhollow Road,
Delivering Extraordinary Properties FOR SALE || $939,000 FOR SALE $939,000 12 Winding Way, Little Silver 12 Winding Way, Little SALE Silver FOR
All you need is love…
|
FOR SALE || $865,000 FOR SALE $865,000 924 Teaberry Lane, Brielle 924 Teaberry Lane, Brielle $674,900
25 Silvercrest Drive, Tinton Falls
77 Poricy Lane, Mid
49 49 Country Country Road, Road, Route Route 537 537 West, West, Colts Colts Neck, Neck, NJ NJ 623 623 River River Road, Road, Fair Fair Haven, Haven, NJ NJ
FOR SALE || $615,000 FOR SALE $615,000 20 Brookside Lane, Little Silver 20 Brookside Lane, Little Silver
25 Silvercrest Drive, Tinton but Falls it's Valentine's Day is a day set aside for romance, also a wonderful time to celebrate platonic love. This month we share with you stories centered on the love of family, the love for others, and the love we share with our FOR SALE | $359,000 community.
FOR SALE | $399 $39
20 Brookside Lane, Little Silver
25 Silvercrest Drive, Tinton Falls
In the thick of winter, when the world turns cold on us here in the Northeast, we have the warmth and comfort of Valentine's Day to help get us through and the fun of watching the 2018 Winter Olympics to get our hearts FOR SALE || $674,900 racing with excitement. FOR SALE $674,900
FOR SALE || $779,000 FOR SALE $779,000 29 Woodhollow Road, Colts Neck Woodhollow Road, Colts Neck | $615,000 FOR29SALE
FOR SALE || $399,000 FOR SALE $399,000 77 Poricy Lane, Middletown 77 Poricy Lane, Middletown
49 49 Country Country Road, Road, Route Route 537 537 West, West, Colts Colts Neck, Neck, NJ NJ 49 Country Road, Colts 623 623 River RiverRoute Road, Road,537 Fair FairWest, Haven, Haven, NJ NJ Neck, NJ 623 River Road, Fair Haven, NJ
UNDER CONTRACT | $969,000
UNDER CONTRACT |
25 Jackson Street, Fair HavenDam Road,107 Harrison Avenue, Place, Red Bank Some loves last a lifetime and produce218 notEast onlyBergen a family, 12 Beaver Colts 812 River Road, Fair Haven, NJ 07704 | 49 Country Road, Route 537 West, Colts Neck, NJNeck 07722| $789,000 but a legacy. Carmine and Phyllis Visone met in grade WILLIAM KILBRIDE Inviting Traditional Inviting Traditional Colonial Colonial set set on on 1.3 1.3 acre acre lot lot in in • 732-252-2460 Fair Haven Office • 732-530-6300 | Colts Neck Office CONTRACT | $969,000 UNDER CONTRACT $649,000 FOR with SALE | $359,000 / Broker Associate||CRS, SRES Reservoir Community school and have built a life filled working UNDER Reservoir Community on on aa favorite favorite Colts Colts Neck Neck Street. Street. UNDER CONTRACT | $969,000 Partner UNDER CONTRACT $649,000 FOR SALE | love, $359,000 ® NJ REALTORS Circle of Excellence Sales together, and impacting young218 minds. Learn about 25 Jackson Street, Fair Haven 107 Harrison Avenue, Fair Haven East Bergen Place,more Red Bank ® Harrison 12 Beaver Dam Road, Colts Neck | $789,000 25 Jackson Street, Fair Haven 107 Avenue, Fair Haven 218 East Bergen Place, Red Bank Award - 2004-2017 Beaver Dam Road, Colts Neck | $789,000 WILLIAM KILBRIDE their journey on page 59. Inviting Inviting Traditional Traditional Colonial Colonial set set on on 1.3 1.3 acre acre lot lot in in WILLIAM12KILBRIDE
WILLIAM KILBRIDE Cell: 732-859-7682
Partner/Broker Partner/Broker Associate Associate
InvitingCommunity Traditional Colonial set on 1.3Neck acre lot in Reservoir Reservoir Community on on aa favorite favorite Colts Colts Neck Street. Street. Reservoir Community on a favorite Colts Neck Street.
CRS, CRS, SRES SRES Partner / Broker Associate CRS, Office SRES Some loves have a purity that comes from deep within. Fair Haven Colts Neck Office WILLIAM KILBRIDE WILLIAM Office: WILLIAM KILBRIDE Office: 732.252.2460 732.252.2460 It is the love for strangers, for giving without expecting Partner/Broker Partner/Broker Associate Associate WILLIAM KILBRIDE KILBRIDE ® ® ® Circle of Excellence ® 623 River Road 174 Route 537 NJAR , 2014 Silver Level Partner/Broker Associate CRS, CRS, SRES SRES Cell: Partner / Broker Associate CRS, SRES Cell: 732.859.7682 732.859.7682 anything in return. Within our pages this month you'll CRS, Partner / Broker Associate CRS, SRES FairSRES Haven, NJ 07704 Colts Neck, NJ 07722 Office: Office: 732.252.2460 732.252.2460 Bill.Kilbride@longandfoster.com Bill.Kilbride@longandfoster.com ® Office: 732.252.2460 Sales ® Circle of NJAR of Excellence 2014 - Silver Level Cell: Cell: 732.859.7682 732.859.7682 Excellence NJ,,REALTORS find the stories about Habitat for Humanity and theCircle Big 732-530-6300 732-252-2460 NJAR Circle of Excellence 2014 - Silver Level Cell: 732.859.7682 www.BillKilbride.com www.BillKilbride.com Bill.Kilbride@longandfoster.com Bill.Kilbride@longandfoster.com ® ® -Sales Excellence REALTORS Circle ofAward 2013 & 2015 Brothers Big Sisters of Monmouth & Middlesex NJ Counties. Bill.Kilbride@longandfoster.com www.BillKilbride.com www.BillKilbride.com NJ REALTORS Circle of Excellence Sales www.BillKilbride.com 2015 SALE | $939,000 Award - 2013 & FOR FOR SALE | $865,000 FOR SALE | $779,000 Both organizations are run by staff and volunteers Award - 2013 & 2015 Way, Little Silver 924 Teaberry Lane, Brielle 29 Woodhollow Road, Colts Neck Office: 732-252-2460 who are giving tirelessly to have a positive impact in12 Winding Office: 732-252-2460 Office: 732-252-2460 Cell: 732-859-7682 Cell: 732-859-7682 Monmouth County. Cell: 732-859-7682 ® ® ®
® ® ®
® ® ®
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Some loves fuel a passion and result in something many can enjoy. Thirty years ago Tom Martini and a some friends got together at Christian Brother's Academy in Lincroft to share their love of theatre and acting. What resulted was Phoenix Productions and thousands of hours of entertainment for those who attend their shows. FOR SALE | $674,900 25 Silvercrest Drive, Tinton Falls You'll also meet Bruce Gallipani whose love for music has resulted in Rockit!, a school for kids at the Count Basie Theatre bringing kids together to hone their performance skills and share their talents with the public.
FOR SALE | $615,000
FOR SALE | $399,000
20 Brookside Lane, Little Silver
77 Poricy Lane, Middletown
49 Country Road, Route 537 West, Colts Neck, NJ 623 River Road, Fair Haven, NJ
We will have the fun of watching one of our own More than 85 years of dedication, passion, Monmouth County athletes, AJ Muss, compete in the 2018 Winter Olympics. AJ survived a life-threatening | $359,000 CONTRACT | $969,000 UNDER CONTRACT | $649,000 andUNDER professionalism. and career-ending setback, but his love for his sport was FOR SALEintegrity 25 Jackson Street, Fair Haven 107 Harrison Avenue, Fair Haven 218 East Bergen Place, Red Bank 12 Beaver Dam Road, Colts Neck | $789,000 more powerful than his challenges. We'll all be watching Inviting Traditional Colonial set on 1.3 acre lot in AJ - and we wish you great speed, safe runs, and gold Reservoir Community on a favorite Colts Neck Street. medals! Areas of Practice: All-in-all it's a love fest! May your month be filled with all things that warm your heart. All my best, Carolyn Burtnick Community Magazine is directly-mailed to Colts Neck, Holmdel, Lincroft, Rumson, Fair Haven, Little Silver, Red Bank, Locust, Sea Bright and parts of Middletown along the Navesink River at no cost to the resident. Please give us a call at 848.456.1071 or email advertising@communitymagazinenj.com if you would like to promote your business in Monmouth County’s most interesting magazine!
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WILLIAM KILBRIDE
WILLIAM KILBRIDE
Partner/Broker Associate Municipal Court Defense CRS, SRES Municipal Law Office: 732.252.2460 Cell: 732.859.7682 Personal Injury Bill.Kilbride@longandfoster.com Real Property Tax Appeals www.BillKilbride.com Residential Real Estate
DUI Bankruptcy Partner / Broker Associate CRS, SRES Employment Law Civil Litigation NJAR® Circle of Excellence®, 2014 - Silver Level Finance & Banking Commercial Litigation ® Excellence Property Sales NJ Real REALTORS Commercial Estate Circle ofIntellectual Award® - 2013 & 2015 Community Association Law Land Use & Zoning Office: 732-252-2460 Matrimonial & Family Construction Defect Creditors’Cell: Rights732-859-7682 Medical Malpractice Mortgage Banking Criminal Defense
Wills, Trusts & Estates
A commitment to excellence. A commitment to people. Ocean, NJ 732.922.1000
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Woodland Park, NJ 973.247.9000
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CommunityMagazineNJ.com FEBRUARY 2018
9
The Atlantic Club in Manasquan held a toy drive for FSC.
The New Jersey Fraternal Order of Police held a toy drive for FSC.
FCS Operation Sleighbells serves 1,700 area Children in Need More than 550 Monmouth County families had a brighter holiday season thanks to the many area businesses and organizations who partnered with Family & Children’s Service (FCS) to support the agency’s 2017 Operation Sleighbells. The annual holiday gift drive, which supplies toys, books, coats, pajamas and infant necessities to local children in need, helped 1,300 children from dozens of surrounding towns and cities, as well as 400 children served by child protection programs in central and southern Monmouth County. “We’re delighted that we were able to make so many holiday wishes come true,” FCS Director of Volunteer Services Samantha White exclaimed. “The generosity of our donors made it possible for us to provide gifts or gift cards to every single child who requested one. A nurse at one of the elementary schools served by the program says she overheard students talking about their favorite gifts. That warms our hearts!” White also attributed much of the program's success this year to Monmouth Park, which, for the third consecutive year donated muchneeded space at no cost in order for volunteers to collect, sort and distribute the thousands of gifts during the month of December. White says without the off-site space, FCS would be forced to reduce the number of families it serves. This year, dozens of new businesses and organizations signed up to sponsor families or conduct toy drives, bringing the total number of sponsors to well above 100. Participants included: Abe Pressman Jewelers, Advisors Mortgage Group, Amazon Consulting Experts, Ansell Healthcare LLC, Atlantic Club in Red Bank and Manasquan, Atlantis Prep, Audi of Eatontown, Beach Front North Day Book Club, Bristol Meyers Squibb, Brookdale Community
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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE CommunityMagazineNJ.com
College, Brownie Troop 252 Unit 8, Canbert Inc, CCMSI, Circle of Life Chiropractic, Cobham, Colonial Terrace Neighborhood Association, Colts Neck High School, CommVault, Continental Logistics, CRA, Dittmar Agency, Dugan Elementary School, Endoscopy Center of Red Bank, Family First Urgent Care, First Financial Credit Union, Fragoman Worldwide, Freehold Cartage Inc., Freehold Hyundai, French & Parello, GHG Group, Haircrafters Salon, Holmdel High School, Holmdel Village School, Howell High School, Howell Rebel Football, HUB International Northeast, InSite Engineering, Interworld Highway, Investors Savings Bank, Jersey Shore Women’s Club, Kindercare of Wall, Lightbridge Academy, Little Chief Learning Station, Little Silver Animal Hospital, Loscalzo Institute Man and Woman of the Year, Marlboro Elementary School, MBL Marketing Solutions, Metropolitan Asthma & Allergy, Monmouth Medical Center Foundation, Monmouth Retina Consults, Monmouth University, Moser Taboada Law Firm, Natural Health Care Center, Nestle, NJ Office of Unemployment, NJ State FOP, Noise in the Attic, Noontime Optimist Club of Freehold, Ocean Dental, Ocean Pointe Realtors, Old Bridge Dental, Quaker Special Risk, Qualcare, Red Bank Veterinary Hospital, Relentless Fitness and Training, ReMax Central, Revenue Guard, Ridge Realty, Robert Half, Rumson Country Day School, Rumson Public Works, Sarah E. Elias Esq., Single Throw Internet Marketing, Stephen Gould Corp., Stop & Shop, Strasz Computer Consulting, Tarise Day Spa, The Learning Experience, The Pilates Project, Trident Abstract Title Agency, Trinity Solar, Victor Zando Foundation, Wall Township Girl Scouts, West-Ward Pharmaceuticals, Warshauer Electric and West Long Branch First Aide. To learn more about FCS and its 14 diverse programs and services focused on the needs of multiple at-risk populations, visit fcsmonmouth. org.
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DO YOU KNOW WHAT HABITAT FOR HUMANITY DOES IN MONMOUTH COUNTY? BY DONNA BERIONT weatherization and minor repair services. • The House That Youth Built - a youth based service program that engages schools and youth organizations from across our service area to help raise funds to build homes for families in need, to get involved through their STEM programs at school in the design and build phase, and to get hands-on experience by volunteering at home builds.
Bon Jovi, Justin Timberlake, Ashton Kutcher, Ariel Winter and Snoop Dogg…what do they all have in common? They have all supported Habitat for Humanity! Habitat for Humanity is one of the world’s largest housing charities. Since its inception in 1976, Habitat for Humanity International has helped provide affordable housing to over four million people, making Habitat the largest non-profit builder in the world! Habitat for Humanity believes everyone deserves a decent, affordable place to live, regardless of race, religion, age, gender, social standing, income level, political views or any of the other distinctions that too often divide people. Although Habitat is best known internationally for its home-building initiatives, it also operates locally. Since 1989, Habitat for Humanity Monmouth County has built 52 new, affordable homes in our community, and in response to Superstorm Sandy, has rehabbed over 125 damaged homes for families impacted by the storm. Additionally, they continue to do home repairs and build wheelchair ramps for seniors. Good news! Habitat for Humanity in Monmouth County is building two affordable homes and rehabbing another one in our area right now and is taking applications for homeownership. The homes are located in Long Branch, Keansburg (this home is slated for a veteran), and Rumson. Other things that the local Habitat affiliate is doing now that you may not have known about, include: • A Brush with Kindness - a nation-wide effort to serve lowincome homeowners who struggle to maintain the exterior of their homes. It is a preservation program that offers services to eligible homeowners so they can continue to live in safe, decent homes for years to come. Projects include painting, landscaping,
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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE CommunityMagazineNJ.com
• Woman Build Warriors – This is a new program that I help run and started this year and is already attracting lots of enthusiastic women, ages 21 and up. If you want to learn more about how you can help Habitat for Humanity’s home building mission, get involved in one of its events, or attend a workshop or a build, then this group is for you! • The ReStore, Habitat’s retail operation, sells new and used furniture, appliances, and building materials. Local families have a trusted place to donate goods and consumers can purchase quality household items at affordable prices. • Global Village Trips offer more than just the opportunity to travel internationally. You’ll really experience the country, working alongside local people to build homes for those in need, and meet other volunteers from around the world with all different kinds of backgrounds, races and religions. Recently, members of the Monmouth County Habitat chapter have been to volunteer in India, Central America, Africa and Southeast Asia. • Ramps and Rails is a program that builds wheelchair ramps, using volunteer labor, for the disabled and senior citizens. FUN FACT! Did you know that in 2013, the Habitat for Humanity of Monmouth County chapter was selected as a Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project site in Union Beach, to continue Sandy Relief projects in the area? Did you know that the President and Mrs. Carter were at the build in Union Beach after Superstorm Sandy? Why not join Jimmy Carter, Bon Jovi, Justin Timberlake, Ashton Kutcher, Ariel Winter and Snoop Dogg and get involved in something special? If you do, you can be your own celebrity! If you would like to find out more about HFHMC, donate, or sign up to volunteer, visit habitatmonmouth.org.
Tours Now Available Caring Tree Adult Medical Daycare CARING TREE ADULT MEDICAL DAYCARE provides peace of mind for those with senior family members in their care. We offer a safe, monitored environment where seniors can remain active and social while their loved ones are away during the day. Our setting is sure to provide your loved ones with a home away from home.
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I meet new people every day – and often, I get to help them. That’s a great feeling.
Meet Brittany. She’s a meter reader at JCP&L – joining her aunts, uncles and cousins who also have worked at JCP&L for more than 20 years. If you haven’t seen Brittany reading meters at your home or your neighbor’s house, maybe you’ll recognize her on the local softball diamonds. A former MVP at Ocean County College, Brittany still plays softball with the Monmouth County Co-Ed and Women’s Softball leagues. Brittany is proud to be part of your hometown energy team. www.jcp-l.com
CommunityMagazineNJ.com FEBRUARY 2018
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Scrappy Poskonka of Colts Neck
Brewster Velho of Lincroft
Declan McMahon of Colts Neck
Drake Rigassio of Red Bank
Junior Poskonka of Colts Neck
Fred Dolan of Red Bank
drake_the_french_piglet
Lola Rohlf of Lincroft
Ellie Mae DeMonte of Fair Haven
"Lowes" Barnett of Rumson
Maddie & Chase Ricatti of Morganville
Bitsy LaRocca of Rumson
Lulu Mansour of Colts Neck
#CMPetCelebs
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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE CommunityMagazineNJ.com
Honeybunch Connolly of Fair Haven
Clover Fernandes & Slinky in the background of Rumson
Niko & Maverick Smith of Colts Neck
Your pet can be a celebrity too! Send their photos to: info@communitymagazinenj.com
Education Foundation of Little Silver to Host Annual Fundraiser The Education Foundation of Little Silver (EFLS), a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the education of students in the Little Silver Public Schools, is busy preparing for its annual fundraising event, which will be held on Friday, March 2, 2018, at The Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel in Asbury Park. Sponsorship opportunities and tickets to the “Inspire & Shine” themed party are still available. Through the generous donations of Little Silver residents and local area businesses, the annual EFLS event – now in its 23rd year – helps to ensure that Little Silver teachers and students can access innovative educational tools and current technology without raising the school district’s cost structure and local tax burden. In 2017, the EFLS raised more than $100,000 to fund grants for items such as Chromebooks, Smart TVs, and Surface Pros that were placed directly in the hands of the Little Silver community’s children and teachers. The EFLS is a nonprofit organization that relies entirely on local business and family sponsors, the Little Silver teachers and Board of Education, as well as the countless individuals who volunteer, attend and donate to its fundraising event each year. “Our annual fundraiser is a great night out, but it’s also a critically important opportunity for our community to support the education of our children,” said Tracey Wetmore, EFLS President. “I’d like to encourage everyone to consider their own contribution to our mission, whether it’s by sponsoring, attending or otherwise supporting our fundraiser this year.” Visit efls.org to learn more about the EFLS, buy event tickets and explore sponsorship opportunities and other ways to donate money.
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T H E J OY O F E N T E R TA I N I N G
Phoenix Productions Turns 30 STORY CATHY PADILLA
MANY PERFORMERS, whether internationally known or local, share how the feedback of a live crowd is the most rewarding; that the call of the theatre stage is hard to resist. Phoenix Productions, a nonprofit community theatre organization staffed almost entirely by volunteers, has been providing quality theatrical experiences on both sides of the footlights in Monmouth County for 30 years. To celebrate its third decade, Phoenix will perform an evening of music and memories on February 24, 2018 at the Count Basie Theatre. While most community theatre groups operate in church basements or gymnasiums, Phoenix has had the advantage of performing in professional theatres on professional stages. By entertaining audiences and giving growth and educational opportunities to actors, Phoenix has taken its allvolunteer casts and created a unique and rewarding experience for both the performers and those being entertained. What started as a one-time show at Christian Brother’s Academy in Lincroft morphed into a troupe that would include such notable alumni as Georgi James, who played Pepper in the Broadway production of Annie; Jared Gertner, who played Elder Cunningham in the original Broadway cast of The Book of Mormon; and Jenny Hill, who appeared on Broadway in Spamalot and Something Rotten. “A group of us got together back in 1988 with a simple goal, let’s do a show!” says Tom Martini, chairman of the board of Phoenix Productions. “We had no longterm plan beyond that summer. But the next summer we did another show, 16
and the next summer, and the next. Sometime in the mid-90s we realized we were a real company and started to look much further down the road.” By 1990 the group had moved to Red Bank and within a few years more the centerpiece of their activities would emerge, the “Broadway in the ‘burbs’” series of four, full-scale musicals performed each year on the Count Basie stage. But the mission became education as well as entertainment, and a few years back the group moved into their 10,000 square foot Phoenix Performing Arts Center instituting a year-round Arts Education Program for children and adults. “A fair number of our students are what we call pre-professionals, youngsters who intend to pursue a professional career in theatre,” says Martini. “Others are just doing it for the joy of it, singing, dancing, and acting as a pastime. Our most popular class is tap dance for beginners which routinely attracts older teens and adults who do it mainly for fun. They come from all over Monmouth County and even some from Middlesex and Ocean.”
the Count Basie stage. “The Fuller Studio Theatre, named for a benefactor, will create more opportunities for performers and artistic staffs, and more events for the theatre-going public,” says Martini. As the only original founding member still associated with Phoenix, Martini has fond memories of the past 30 years as well as big hopes and dreams for the future. “Every opening night, I stand at the back of the theatre,” shares Martini. “I watch the audience come in; I watch the curtain go up. And when that curtain goes down, in the midst of the applause, I am in awe of what we have accomplished. One hundred fifty shows; nearly 1000 performances…and it never gets old.” For more information on Phoenix Productions, visit phoenixredbank.com.
Always looking for more ways to grow, Martini and the 15 Trustees who govern Phoenix are currently raising funds to launch a “black-box” studio theatre where smaller works and straight plays can be performed. Hoping to be operational by mid-2018, the Fuller Studio Theatre will be the largest rehearsal studio within the performing arts center and allow for more productions and smaller works that need an intimate venue. It will also allow for original and experimental works that wouldn’t make economic sense on
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Valentine’s Day, Presidents Day weekend and fun indoor and outdoor events can be found right here in your own backyard! Speaking of backyards, many of these events revolve around flowers, so enjoy the shortest month of the year doing something inspiring or for someone else since it is our LOVE month!
The 21st Annual Orchid Show February 8th through February 11th Save the date for Deep Cut Orchid Society’s annual orchid show at Dearborn Market! During the show on Saturday, February 10th, it will hold the 9th annual evening benefit for the Francis Foundation to raise funds so it can bring happiness to kids fighting cancer. Enjoy wine and cheese, hors d’oevres for this wonderful cause. Pre-order tickets online or in the store for $40. dearbornmarket.com 4:33 PM Page 2
professional portraits. And as a bonus, a makeup artist will show you how to create a quick and easy “smoky eye” look that works for business and after-hours events. Pre-registration is $20 in advance and $25 at the door. A portion of the proceeds will go to 180 Turning Lives Around. Space is limited.
the Philadelphia Flower Show on Tuesday, March 6, 2018 from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The cost is $99 per person, including a show entry ticket, transportation on luxury coach with wifi and restroom, highlights talk on the way to the show, show maps, refreshments on the bus and Kirsty Dougherty as your host. For more information or to book contact Kirsty Dougherty on kirsty@noblegardentours. com or 908.512.0600 S C A N A N D E X C E L T R AV E L P R E S E N T
Asbury Park Women’s Convention February 24th from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Asbury Park Women’s Convention: :Layout 1 12/28/16 A Day of Politics and Comedy is excited Count Basie Theatre Happenings VE-postcard2017:Layout 1 12/28/16 4:33 PM Pa to bring together women of ALL political Visit countbasietheatre.org Annual Vacation Expo for tickets. affiliations for a day of humor, inspiration, You can go almost any day to the Count hosted by EXCEL TRAVEL and SCAN MARKET AND EXCEL TRAVEL PRESENT and activism at The Asbury Hotel. Visit Basie theatre and find a great show! Here (Social Community Activities Network) SICKLES MARKET AND EXCEL TRAVEL PRES ABERCROMBIE & KENT: Create unforgettable memories apwomensconvention.com. February 10th from 11:00 to 3:00 p.m. are a couple February of highlights.10, 2018, 11am-3pm BEACHES & SANDALS RESORTS: Ultra all-inclusive vacations Saturday, Monmouth Mall (Lower across from CAYMANlevel ISLANDS: CaymanKind at Monmouth Mall, Eatontown premium cruise line Emmanuel Foundation’s 18th Lord and Taylor) CELEBRITY CRUISES: 2015 BestThe The NJLevel, Symphony Orchestra-Hot Latin Lower across from Lord&Taylor CELTIC TOURS WORLD VACATIONS Y, JAN 22, 2017 from AM PM 11 3 Crystal Gala Many surprises CRYSTAL and best deals for Annual Nights with the Mambo Kings February CRUISES: All-inclusive luxury cruises s Market, 1 Harrison Ave, Little Silver DISNEY PARKS & CRUISE LINE,February ADVENTURES DISNEY 24thBY from 6:00 to 11:00 p.m. your upcoming vacation specials… visit 16th at 8:00 p.m. SUNDAY, JAN 22, 2017 from 11 AM - 3 Market and Excel Travel have joined EMIRATES AIRLINES: Hello Tomorrow! Eagle Oaks Golf and Country Club njvacationexpo.com at Sickles Market, 1 Harrison Ave, Little S again to host Monmouth County’s GLOBUS Escorted tours and AVALON RIVER CRUISES acation Expo! Held in Sickles beautiful Sickles Market and Excel Travel have joi Complete withCRUISES dinner, dancing, casino David Byrne HOLLAND AMERICA LINE / SEABOURN LUXURY use, the Expo brings together trusted together again to host Monmouth Coun Hawaii, honeymoons,destination weddings TRAVEL CORP: and gift auction. Tickets start at $150. For March 3rd at 8:00 p.m. Stop Offshore and Gas! Public Meeting erators all under one roof. Cruise lines, Oil MARK Annual Vacation Expo! Held in Sickles beau MSC CRUISES: Beautiful, passionate, Italian stinations, yacht charters, adventure greenhouse, the Expo brings together trus morecruising information, call 732.282.2324 or February 14th at 3:00 p.m. NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE: Freestyle & more. Plan your getaway at the travel operators all under one roof. Cruise li SCAN Hilton Garden Inn,PAUL 800 Hwy 130, Hamilton GAUGUIN CRUISES:NJ Tahiti,contact Fiji, and rcontreras@emmanuelcancer.org. the South Pacific Expo! A Little Shakespeare: The Comedyyacht charters, adven exotic destinations, CARIBBEAN CRUISES: Social Community Activities Where Activ holidays & Network more. Plan -your getaway at Show your “oceanROYAL emotion” and attend the Vow to WOW of Errors SCENIC: Luxury cruises & tours Vacation Expo! meet to be Informed, Empowered and Inspire Beach Wellness Workshop Adults public hearing to oppose oilTOURS: and gas drilling March 6th through March 11th SCEPTRE Travel with an Monmouth accent MARKET SEADREAM CLUB: EnjoyFebruary the difference 27th from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. proposed in the entire AtlanticYACHT Ocean. EXCEL TRAVEL Celebrating its 5th season as one of Two ed & operated for four generations, Sickles SILVERSEA CRUISES: Live the stories you’d love to tell Join Tiffany Ruocco a certified ForRiver’s rs outstanding produce, plants, gourmet SICKLES MARKET and the best travel planning absolute bes most inpopular programs, A Little TAUCK TOURS & CRUISES: How you see the world matters en accessories and giftsLeverage Your Look, Family owned & operated for four generations, aromatherapy expert in a class on prices (even compared Networking & Wine of Reaching New Heights TRAVEL IMPRESSIONS: 40 Years to Expedia, etc) PLUS A Shakespeare engages young artists and offers outstanding produce, plants, g AVEL TRUMP HOTELS: Never settle essential oils and their uses and cautions. EXTRA $100 OFFMarket Tasting with Cheese & Chocolates any vacation package booked a foods, garden andA gifts st in travel planning, advice, & custom VIKING RIVER CRUISES: Explore the world in comfort audiences with the work ofaccessories the Bard. Participants will be able to hand mix their the event! 17th 1:00WORLD to 3:00OF pm ces. The absolute bestFebruary prices PLUS ANfrom WIDE GOLF: The experts in golf travel EXCEL TRAVEL 75-minute version of Shakespeare’s The 00 OFF any vacation package at That WIMCO PRIVATE VILLA RENTALS: Private thescrub world and products For the best in travel planning, advice, & c own clayrentals maskallorover foot Join 3booked Chicks Click Photography NEW JERSEY 101.5 WINDSTAR: 180 degrees from ordinary travel services.directed The absolute Comedy of Errors—adapted, andbest prices PL for Leverage Your Look, an exclusive, will be available for purchase. Tickets are EXTRA OFF any vacation package bo Meet and join Eric Scott$100 ofartists—will NJ101.5 on designed by professional behis Culinar in-studio and to or show you how $50. the event 732.571.1960 For more infoevent njvacationexpo.com Cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line to Bermuda performed by local high school students to create that stand-out look. Studio on the stage of the Rechnitz Theater. Visit For more in Owner/Photographer Alyse Liebowitz The Philadelphia Flower Show and makeup artist Alexa Yurchak - image March 3rd through March 11th tworivertheater.org. Sign up at the Club Med booth for a free getaway. consultants - will demonstrate poses, If you haven’t been you must see it this wardrobe choices, and hair and makeup year! The theme this year is “The Wonders For more info: 732 looks that will create flattering and Of Water”. Noble Garden Tours is visiting
ual Monmouth County
Exhibitors
Vacation Expo
cation Expo
Annual Monmouth Coun
Vacation Exp
Sponsors
s
Sponsors
Donna Beriont | DNB Events - “Events that Matter and Inspire” Donna does public relations, event consulting and strategy as well as promotions and partnering for local businesses. Her clients have included Clean Ocean Action, Habitat For Humanity, Project Write Now, Mary’s Place By The Sea, Danny’s Steakhouse, Salon Concrete and more. For more information, go to dnbevents.com or drop her a note about your upcoming event at donna@dnbevents.com.
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For more info: njvacationexpo.com
Exhibitors
ENT
po
ANTIGUA & BARBUDA TOURISM AUTHORITY BEACHES / SANDALS: The Ultra All-inclusive Vacation CAYMAN ISLANDS: Caymankind CELEBRITY CRUISES: 2017 Best Premium Cruise Line TRAVEL PRESENT CELTIC TOURS WORLD VACATIONS: Ireland & more 3pm ABERCROMBIE & KENT: Create unforgettable memories CLUB MED: Worldwide All-Inclusive Vacations BEACHES & SANDALS RESORTS: Ultra all-inclusive vacations CRYSTAL CRUISES: All-Inclusive Luxury Cruises CAYMAN ISLANDS: CaymanKind DISNEY PARKS & CRUISE LINE, ADVENTURES BY DISNEY CELEBRITY CRUISES: 2015 Best premium cruise line CELTIC TOURS WORLD VACATIONS AMERICA LINE / SEABOURN LUXURY CRUISES om 11 AM - 3 PM HOLLAND CRYSTAL CRUISES: All-inclusive luxury cruises Ave, Little Silver INSIGHT VACATIONS: The Art of Traveling in Style DISNEY PARKS & CRUISE LINE, ADVENTURES BY DISNEY avel have joined JAMAICA TOURIST BOARD: The Home of All Right EMIRATES AIRLINES: Hello Tomorrow! mouth County’s GLOBUS Escorted tours and AVALON RIVER CRUISES Sickles beautiful KICK CANCER OVERBOARD HOLLAND AMERICA LINE / SEABOURN LUXURY CRUISES together trusted MARK TRAVEL: Honeymoons, Groups honeymoons,destination weddings MARK TRAVEL Hawaii, CORP: Hawaii, oof. Cruise lines, SAFARIS: 50 Years of Luxury MSC CRUISES: Beautiful, passionate, Italian rters, adventure MICATO NORWEGIAN LINE:Passionate, Freestyle cruising here Active getaway at the MSC CRUISES:CRUISE Beautiful, Italian PAUL GAUGUIN CRUISES: Tahiti, Fiji, and the South Pacific nd Inspired NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE: Freestyle Cruising ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES: Vow to WOW SCENIC: Luxury cruises & tours ROCKY MOUNTAINEER: Beauty Beyond Worlds SCEPTRE TOURS: Travel with an accent CARIBBEAN: Vow to Wow olute best ROYAL SEADREAM YACHT CLUB: Enjoy the difference generations, Sickles SEASILVERSEA DREAM YACHT CLUB: Enjoy the Difference CRUISES: Live the stories you’d love to tell PLUS AN uce, plants, gourmet TAUCK TOURS & CRUISES: Howwith you see world matters SCEPTRE VACATIONS: Travel anthe Accent booked at s TRAVEL IMPRESSIONS: 40 Years of Reaching New Heights SILVERSEA CRUISES: Live the Stories you'd love to tell! TRUMP HOTELS: Never settle ST. KITTS TOURISM AUTHORITY: Follow Your Heart advice, & custom VIKING RIVER CRUISES: Explore the world in comfort st prices PLUS AN WIDE WORLD OF GOLF: The experts in golf travel TRAFALGAR: Authentic Travel Experiences package booked at WIMCO PRIVATE VILLA RENTALS: Private rentals all over the world s Culinary TRAVELGUARD: America's WINDSTAR: 180 degrees fromleading ordinary Provider of Travel Insurance muda TRAVEL IMPRESSIONS: 40 Years of reaching new Heights For more info 732.571.1960 or njvacationexpo.com VIKING RIVER CRUISES: Explore the World in Comfort WEST LONG BRANCH SKI CLUB: Rockies and Europe etaway. WIMCO VILLAS: Private villa rentals all over the world 4:33 PM
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info: 732.571.1960 or www.njvacationexpo.com
S C A N A N D E X C E L T R AV E L P R E S E N T
Vacation Expo Saturday, February 10, 2018, 11am-3pm at Monmouth Mall, Eatontown Lower Level, across from Lord&Taylor
Sponsors SCAN Social Community Activities Network - Where Active Adults meet to be Informed, Empowered and Inspired EXCEL TRAVEL For the best in travel planning and absolute best prices (even compared to Expedia, etc) PLUS AN EXTRA $100 OFF any vacation package booked at the event! NEW JERSEY 101.5 Meet and join Eric Scott of NJ101.5 on his Culinary Cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line to Bermuda
Sign up at the Club Med booth for a free getaway.
Make Us Happy – Go Away!
EXCELTRAVEL.com 800.392.3588 goaway@exceltravel.com
Exhib
ANTIGUA & BEACHES / CAYMAN IS CELEBRITY CELTIC TOU CLUB MED CRYSTAL C DISNEY PA HOLLAND INSIGHT VA JAMAICA T KICK CANC MARK TRA MICATO SA MSC CRUIS NORWEGIA ROCKY MO ROYAL CAR SEA DREAM SCEPTRE V SILVERSEA ST. KITTS T TRAFALGA TRAVELGU TRAVEL IM VIKING RIV WEST LON WIMCO VIL
For more info: 732.571.1960 or ww
Corner of Atlantic Ave. & Ocean Blvd. Long Branch, NJ 07740
Above: Bruce Gallipani (center) with Kick Cancer Overboard Board Member DonnaLyn Giegerich (left) and Founder Ted Friedli.
PHOTO CREDIT ROCKITLIVE.ORG
Behind the Music
t
BY DONNALYN GIEGERICH
ROCKIT FOUNDER BRUCE GALLIPANI SHOWCASES LOCAL ROCK ‘N’ ROLL TALENT Close your eyes and imagine your favorite rock ‘n’ roll band on stage. We were at the Count Basie Theatre in Red Bank the first time we met Bruce Gallipani. It was a brief hello between sets for his terrific Rockit musicians. Rockit is a 501(c)3 music school for emerging artists 8-18 years of age. It is clearly a premier experience for young musicians in New Jersey who audition, learn and play songs with professional musicians to craft their skills. Bruce’s vision has been to take rock ‘n’ roll talent out of the garage and onto the performance stage to showcase hard work and incredible talent. His work doesn’t just build bands, it builds bandwidth for his musician’s confidence, character and collaboration skills. These critical life skills are honed amidst peers while creative kids craft lyrics, sing songs and manage tight schedules. It’s another healthy forum for reinforcing social well-being, team building and artistic expression. The research around mastering music skills are compelling and so are the sounds that these kids create. Just close your eyes. The genesis for Rockit occurred when Bruce, a professional musician himself and Middletown resident, volunteered to help organize a talent show at his daughter’s
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grammer school many years ago. At that time, Bruce realized that as schools slashed music programs, there remained a need for live music education within a structured and disciplined environment. Bruce went on to fulfill this void by creating Rockit with the assistance of the Count Basie Theatre. Today, as the executive director and founder of Rockit, Bruce is busy cultivating creative environments for young bands to expand and share their talent. Early mornings find Bruce lost in organizing, planning and opening doors to prospective students and supporters that share his vision. Rockit’s team of talented music instructors hail from Berklee College of Music to Brown University. Trust and focus for creativity is at the heart of everything Rockit achieves. Everyone in the band benefits from private instruction which leads to the big performance stage within six weeks at the Basie. Approximately forty-five students participate in the Rockit family at a time with on-going auditions each January. When we asked how Bruce keeps young musicians on point, he proudly informed us that the kids encourage one another to work at their full potential and hold each other accountable. There is no begging, coaxing or pleading. These rockers regularly “bring it.”
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What we admired so much about Rockit, besides the sensational sounds, was its commitment to community. Rockit Live Foundation supports many worthy causes and most recently donated its holiday party proceeds to Kick Cancer Overboard (KCO) for a third year in a row. KCO sends folks affected by cancer to sea for free to give families a break from hospital visits and treatment routines. Rockit’s latest jam fest with Santa resulted in twelve more cruisers heading to the beautiful beaches of Bermuda in May. What better way to celebrate the season of giving than witnessing kids rockin’ for sick kids during the holiday season? There’s not a dry eye at these purposeful parties jammed with supporters on their feet giving everyone a standing ovation! When I asked Bruce about his motivating mantra to keep the music playing, he simply replied, “Love what you do.” The right people will show up and it may take years, but as record producer Jimmy Iovine of Interscope Records once said, “Be different.” Rock on, Rockit! We love how you’re changing the world with your good deeds and kickin’ concerts. Learn more about Rockit at rockitlive.org.
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2017 Production List 4 Round Hill Court, Colts Neck 10 Berkeley Place, Eatontown 6 Warrenton Lane, Colts Neck 2008 Plymouth Court, Wall Township 264 Linden Avenue, Middletown 315 4th Avenue, Bradley Beach 12 Totten Court, Marlboro 22 Westminster Lane, Middletown 326 Golf View Drive, Little Egg Harbor Township 893 Grove Avenue, Laurence Harbor 29 Emma Place, Eatontown 321-323 Shore Drive, Highlands 601 Brinley Avenue, Bradley Beach 65 Bunker Hill Drive, Middletown
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1 Sweet Briar Lane, Holmdel 9 Weston Court, Marlboro 264 Linden Avenue, Middletown 16 Veterans Drive, South River 1 Chippewa Court, Holmdel 6 Barbera Drive, Holmdel 150 Silverside Avenue, Little Silver 81 Dwight Road, Middletown 11 Maurice Avenue, Holmdel 50 Blevins Avenue, Middletown 405 State Route 36, Port Monmouth 74 North Rivers Edge Drive, Little Silver 9 Tralee Road, Hazlet 316 Bernard Drive, Morganville
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Holmdel Office 43 East Main Street | Holmdel, NJ 07733
How to Keep the Kids Busy This Winter There is no denying, its been a cold winter in the Garden State. Blizzard advisories, school closings, frigid temps—Mother Nature definitely had plans to keep families close this season. Let’s cut her some slack—she’s a mother, after all! What parent doesn’t want to be snowed in and left with the challenge of shielding her kids from cabin fever before lunch is served? We’re all shaking our heads yes, but really thinking: “not me!” Let’s face it—too much family time can cause quite a storm indoors. To stay sane for the rest of this season, here’s a handy list of activities and day trips to keep the brood busy instead of going berserk.
1. Sled, ice skate or ski.
This trio may sound unrealistic when you are not staying at a kid-friendly resort, but luckily our Monmouth County Park System doesn’t let the bitter cold or snowy conditions put a freeze on your Jersey pride. Bundle up and head to a number of local hill hangouts and trails. For complete details, visit MonmouthCountyParks.com
2. Conduct a science experiment.
Layer up under your lab coats and create magic. Have the kids exhale and witness their breath float in the cold (probably best not to be in direct contact of their open mouths if they didn’t brush yet). Need more tips? Search up best winter STEM activities on Pinterest.
3. Bend a little.
The family will see you are not such a stickler when you show them just how flexible you can be! Enroll the kids in a hip yoga class. Firefly Yogis, located in Rumson NJ, provides age-appropriate classes to help kids build strength and confidence with yoga techniques. Their winter 2018 schedule is on fireflynj.com
4. Try laser tag, arcade games, amusement rides. 5. Go to the Boardwalk. 6. Jump, bounce, and drop.
There are tons of family fun events all under one roof. Centers like iPlay America in Freehold and The Penalty Box in Wall offer non-stop action and activities 7 days a week.
Jenkinson’s Aquarium in Point Pleasant Beach is open. Explore underwater life and find your new pal in a penguin. Check the website for schedules and times. Trampoline parks and bounce houses are all the rage with kids and adults, too. There are several locations families can hop on over to, burn off some steam, and feel like they earned a decadent dessert after a major workout.
7. Visit a museum. 8. Lose the “I” and let the kids form a “we-tinerary.”
From the Monmouth Museum in Lincroft to the Silverball Pinball Museum in Asbury Park, there is a variety of places to bond and enjoy history with the family. If you are daring enough to let the kids make the activity suggestions this is a great way to help them build team management skills and independence. Let them come up with a family plan for the day. Let their imaginations soar and give them the freedom to express themselves—and try to restrain the evil eye if a trip to Chuck E. Cheese shows up on their winter tour guide.
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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a tropical escape
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Monmouth County Planning Board Bestows 2017 Merit Awards Monmouth County Freeholder Director Lillian G. Burry and former Freeholder Serena DiMaso, Esq. congratulate the 2017 Planning Merit Award winners.
Established in 1984, the Monmouth County Planning Board’s Planning Merit Award Program recognizes those plans, projects, programs, individuals, municipalities, businesses, community leaders, and stakeholder organizations that have made a significant contribution to the advancement of planning and planning outcomes in Monmouth County. The Planning Board presented four organizations with their 2017 Planning Merit Award at their December 18th meeting. “All of the honorees this year have made significant contributions to the County as a whole,” said Freeholder Director Lillian G. Burry, liaison to the Planning Board. “Through partnerships, improvements and redevelopments, each of those recognized by the Planning Board are working toward keeping Monmouth County the place you want to be.” Marina Grill of Belmar received her Merit Award for Economic Development and Public-Private Partnership. The project is located at the base of the Shark River Bridge, on public land. The Borough of Belmar entered into a long term land— lease agreement with a local experienced restaurant operator. In addition to the direct financial benefits to the Borough of Belmar in the form of leasehold revenue, the project has been a catalyst for economic development in the area, termed the “Gateway to Belmar.” The award for Recreation was earned by Veteran’s Memorial Park Improvements by Aberdeen. The significantly underutilized five-acre passive and
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active recreation facility located on the Raritan Bay waterfront was significantly improved, promoting preservation of natural resources and public land for conservation and recreational uses. Added features include: playgrounds, a water spray park, gazebo, restrooms, multipurpose field, natural boat launch, picnic grove, and an expanded parking lot. The site was also raised in key spots to avoid regular flooding and landscaping added consisting of hardy native plantings - able to survive in harsh, seasonal waterfront conditions. Sea Bright’s Ocean Avenue Streetscape Improvements Project won the award for Adaptive Reuse/Redevelopment, Economic Development, Placemaking, Resiliency, and Transportation Services/ Projects. The streetscape project, the first of several post-Sandy downtown improvement projects in storm-ravaged Sea Bright, has brought walkability, access, and aesthetics back to the downtown area. The project was funded by a grant from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, and developed with the cooperative help of the Sea Bright Streetscape Committee, consisting of Borough officials, residents, and business owners. Components of the project include new concrete sidewalks, curb bump-outs at intersections, additional crosswalks, ADA compliant ramps, new benches and trash receptacles, decorative street lights, landscaping and street trees, and way-finding signage. Receiving the award for Economic
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Development, Adaptive Reuse/ Redevelopment, Placemaking, Planning Innovation, was Bell Laboratories, of Holmdel. The former Bell Laboratories historic site has become the new Bell Works mixed-use campus, incorporating office/work space, restaurants and retail, nature trails, child care, an indoor and outdoor sports complex and fitness facility, healthcare facilities, hotel and conference center, event space, green roof, a public library, 185 active-adult luxury townhouses, and 40 luxury estate homes. Bell Works has attracted many tech companies as tenants, described as “one of the coolest places to work in the state.” Bell Works is an outstanding example of successful economic development through the redevelopment of vacant infrastructure and cooperative and innovative local planning principles. “Every year, the Planning Board receives numerous Merit Award applications for projects, plans and programs and it is difficult task to narrow down the selection,” said Assemblywoman Serena DiMaso, Esq., a former freeholder representative on the County’s Planning Board. “Each of the applicants are deserving of awards and we thank all of you for your contributions to planning in Monmouth County.” The purpose of the Planning Merit Award is not only to recognize and honor exceptional examples of planning in Monmouth County, but to inspire others to pursue the same level of planning achievement and excellence.
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The Skinny… on CoolSculpting® CoolSculpting® is all the talk right now. And for good reason. Permanently getting rid of fat on your body with no cutting, no scarring, no anesthesia and no downtime seems too good to be true. But, it’s not. The science behind CoolSculpting is called Cryolipolysis®. Scientists at Harvard observed that children who ate popsicles got dimples in their cheeks. They realized the popsicles were freezing and eliminating fat. Understanding that cold could target fat cells without damaging the skin or surrounding tissue is what led to the invention of CoolSculpting. CoolSculpting uses controlled cooling to permanently eliminate fat from specific, treated areas. It is safe and effective to help both women and men get rid of those stubborn bulges, for good. By the time we’re teens, the number of fat cells in our body becomes fixed. With weight loss our fat cells become smaller. Conversely, with weight gain, our fat cells become larger. Either way, we still have the same number of fat cells in our body. Rather than shrinking fat cells with dieting, CoolSculpting actually reduces the number of fat cells in the treated areas of our body by about 25%. Therefore, the thickness of the fat layer in that treated area
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is significantly reduced. Those treated fat cells die and are naturally processed and eliminated from the body. Since fat cells don’t multiply, they don’t come back. CoolSculpting claims to be the world’s #1 non-invasive fat-reduction procedure. It’s certainly ‘tried-andtested’ with more than five million CoolSculpting treatments already performed, worldwide. It was also recently awarded “Best Allover Fat Fighter” by NewBeauty. You may recognize her from the NBC sitcom Will & Grace. Emmy award-winning actress, comedienne, mom and now, global brand ambassador for CoolSculpting, Debra Messing, boasts, “I’m absolutely thrilled with my CoolSculpting results. CoolSculpting is my best discovery of the year.” She goes on to say, “Wow, my CoolSculpting experience was shockingly comfortable.” (Debra actually fell asleep during her treatment.) CoolSculpting is the only FDAcleared, non-invasive treatment that targets and freezes away fat cells on the abdomen, flanks (love handles/ muffin top), double chin, inner thighs, outer thighs, upper arms, bra fat, back fat, and underneath buttocks (banana roll).
16 Weeks after Second CoolSculpting® session
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The Retirement Challenge With the increase in life expectancy age, there is a very good chance that retirees will require income for longer than they anticipate, and many are unprepared for this. The median retirement savings for individuals ages 55-64 is just over $100,000, which translates to roughly $4,000 in annual spending (per the Government Accountability Office). The future of Social Security benefits is uncertain, and with fewer guaranteed pensions, the financial responsibility of saving for retirement has shifted to the individual. These issues have resulted in many employees being unable to retire on time.
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I thought this month I’d share with you a fun survey Redfin recently did asking about the Factors That Influence Home Buying A home is a reflection of its owner’s personality, tastes and values. We set out to compare and contrast what different types of homebuyers–think men vs. women, dog people vs. cat people–care about when choosing a place to call home. We surveyed more than 1,000 Americans. Read on to learn what buyers valued most when it came to choosing a home. Men Vs. Women • Having a backyard patio or deck is more important to women • Exterior style is more important to women • The inclusion of exterior maintenance is more important to men • Being centrally located is more important to women • Being close to a good school is more important to women • Proximity to neighbors is more important to women • Neighborhood appearance is more important to women • Neighborhood safety is more important to women • The home being move-in ready is more important to women • The inclusion of appliances is more important to women • Interior layout is more important to women • The number of bathrooms is more important to women • The number of bedrooms is more important to women • Square footage is more important to women • The cost of a home is more important to women • The estimated value of a home is more important to women • Taxes and insurance costs are more important to women As one might expect, parenthood seemed to make potential buyers far more precise about their real estate needs. Parents Vs. Non-Parents • The amount of land a property has is more important to parents • The age of a property is more important to parents • Having a backyard patio or deck is more important to parents • Having a fence is more important to parents • Being close to a good school is more important to parents • Neighborhood appearance is more important to parents • Neighborhood safety is more important to parents • Interior layout is more important to parents • The number of bathrooms is more important to parents • The number of bedrooms is more important to parents • Square footage is more important to parents • The cost of a home is more important to parents • Taxes and insurance is more important to parents Fun Miscellaneous Preferences • Having a backyard patio or deck is more important to dog people than cat people and more important to early birds than night owls • Being close to a good school is more important to dog people than cat people • Neighborhood appearance is more important to dog people than cat people and more important to early birds than night owls • Interior layout is more important to dog people than cat people • Having a pool is more important to Mac users than PC users • The age of appliances is more important to Mac users than PC users • The number of bathrooms is more important to Taylor Swift fans than Kanye West fans
You deserve an agent who is not only knowledgeable, but who can offer real insights and guidance.
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Members of Team Donnelly pause for a photo in front of their chili entry.
Left to right: Judge Rick Willgerodt, first place chili cookoff winner Richard Fragiacomo, and Judge Bob Sickles pause for a picture at the Chili Cook-off.
The “Crowd Pleaser” chili winner Maggie Condon with her husband Cushing.
Adam Harris and his little helper entered the cook-off.
Left to right: Board Vice President Margot O’Connor and Board President Carolyn Miller thoroughly enjoyed the Oceanic Free Library’s Chili Cook-Off!
The duo that made up Team Halikayas enjoyed entering the cook-off.
Left to right: Second place winners Alex and Chris Gooch; Judges Rick Willgerodt and Bob Sickles; first place winner Richard Fragiacomo; chili enthusiast Tim Diehl; third place winner Frank Rodriguez; and Honorable Mention winner Clayton Pendergrast gather for a photo!
OCEANIC FREE LIBRARY CHILI COOK-OFF BY SUSAN MURPHY | PHOTOS DAN BERG Oceanic Free Library held its second annual Chili Cook-Off on January 20, 2018 at the Rumson Firehouse on East River Road. All types of chili were accepted including red, green, with beans or without, vegetarian, chicken, or beef. The chili had to be homemade and only one chili per person could be entered. Judges for the cook-off were food enthusiast and owner of Sickles Market Bob Sickles and former owner and chef of the Bentley Inn in Bay Head, now currently Vice President of the Joe Romanowski Culinary Education Board Rick Willgerodt. About 175 people attended and were eager to taste the 20 different chili entries ranging from red to green to white chili, some vegetarian, some made with pork, or brisket. Judge Bob Sickles commented that all were delicious and satisfying. Judge Rick Willgerodt enjoyed the variety of recipes and meeting the contestants. Sponsors of the spicy event included Little Silver Bottle Shop, Ann Rossbach Consulting, Reis Design Group, Two River Group, Bain’s Outdoor Living, Ray Catena Auto Group and Gloria Nilson Realty Group.
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First place winner Richard Fragiacomo, who entered a sweet and spicy beef chili, won dinner for two at The Copper Canyon Restaurant & Tequila Bar plus a one-night stay at the Blue Bay Inn. Second place winners Alexa and Chris Gooch, who entered as Team Gooch with their unique organic bison chili, won a $100 gift card to Woody’s Ocean Grill. Third place winner Frank Rodriguez, who made a green tomatillo turkey chili, received a $75 gift card to Barnacle Bill’s. Honorable Mention winner Clayton Pendergrast, who entered his classic red beef chili, received a $75 Sickles Market gift card. The “Crowd Pleaser” vote went to Maggie Condon, who made her “Kemp Avenue Bowl” of red beef chili and received a Carton Brewery gift basket plus a $100 Lusty Lobster gift card. Oceanic Free Library Board President Carolyn Miller said, “A great time was had by all and everyone left with empty crockpots!” She noted that the winning recipes will be posted on the library’s website at oceaniclib.org.
Counseling Corner
Counseling Corner will provide a monthly article on mental health topics of interest.
and to resolve issues, events and transitions that impact Barbara Tatum, LPC their ability to function. Meredith O’Brien, LCSW Areas of specialty include Lonjeté T. Nias, LCSW depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, eating disorders, substance abuse, selfharm, chronic suicide ideation, dualdiagnosis, borderline personality disorder, stress management, selfesteem, parenting, divorce, grief, school avoidance, oppositional defiance, ADHD, social skills, crisis intervention, anger management, Meredith had the opportunity to family conflict, girl’s leadership and expand her practice and now has the life transitions. pleasure to work with her associates: use different treatment Barbara Tatum, LPC, Lonjeté T. Nias, We modalities to support the clients LCSW and Jessica Lupon, LPC. we serve. Therapeutic approaches Barbara Tatum received her Masters cognitive behavior degree in Professional Counseling include therapy, dialectical behavior from Seton Hall University. Lonjeté therapy, motivational interviewing, T. Nias received her Masters degree in Social Work from the University strengths-based, solution-focused, of Pennsylvania. Jessica Lupon family systems, music therapy and received her Masters degree in mindfulness. Professional Counseling from Seton Currently the practice offers Hall University. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Services are offered Monday groups for teenagers, young adults through Saturday, including late and adults. DBT is an evidencehour appointments. Having a based practice that teaches skills in diverse staff allows us to meet four modules: Mindfulness, Emotion the needs of our clients. Our past Regulation, Distress Tolerance and Effectiveness. The and present experiences in the Interpersonal growing practice plans to start new school, agency, hospital, crisisintervention, in-home counseling, groups including social skills, teen partial hospitalization and intensive process, adult process and girl’s outpatient environments enables leadership. Being in a group helps us to use our varied expertise and you to identify with others, to feel less alone and to learn from one another. experience to serve our clients. Jessica Lupon, LPC
as
In today’s busy world full of responsibilities, school, work and the often dreaded “to-do” lists, we often struggle to focus on our mental health needs. It can be difficult to checkin with ourselves and to connect and to identify where we may need guidance and support. Talking to a trained professional can help you learn concrete coping strategies to deal with life’s stresses, events and transitions. Meredith O’Brien & Associates, LLC is a private practice located in Red Bank, New Jersey. We offer therapeutic counseling services for children, adolescents and adults. Meredith O’Brien founded her practice six years ago and is thrilled to be able to help people in the community. “I am honored to hear people’s stories and to help them get to a place of balance and clarity.” The practice is made up of Meredith O’Brien, LCSW, and her associates. Meredith received her Allied Health Studies (with a concentration in counseling) Masters degree from the College of Mount Saint Vincent and her Masters degree in Social Work from Fordham University. Last year
Located in a cozy, quaint Victorian home with a fireplace in the waiting room, we offer a nurturing and comforting environment to empower our clients. We help them to process
You deserve to focus on you. Please call today at 732-977-9729 to talk to a therapist and discuss if counseling services would be appropriate for you or a loved one.
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. For questions you should consult a therapist.
Meredith O‘Brien & Associates, LLC M E N TA L H E A LT H C O U N S E L I N G 52 Reckless Place, Red Bank, NJ Meredithobrienlcsw.com • 732.977.9729
Individual Therapy • Group Therapy Family Therapy • Couples Therapy Children • Adolescents • Adults Dialectical Behavior Therapy Groups Depression • Anxiey • Substance Abuse Eating Disorders • ADHD • Parenting Self Esteem • Girls Leadership
FROM EARLY RETIREMENT TO THE OLYMPIC GAMES,
RUMSON’S AJ MUSS
BY CATHY PADILLA | PHOTO CREDIT MIHA MATAVZ
ONE OF THE MOST SUCCESSFUL snowboard teams in the world is bringing a star-studded lineup to Pyeongchang, South Korea this month for the 2018 Olympic Winter Games. Rumson’s own Aaron “AJ” Muss will be one of two U.S. competitors in the Men’s Parallel Giant Slalom, the other is Michael Trapp of Hyannis, Mass. Following final selection events mid-January, U.S. Ski & Snowboard announced 26 athletes who will compete at the Games. The Olympic Winter Games Opening Ceremony is set for February 9th. The U.S. Olympic Snowboard Team will have its first competition on Monday, February 10th with men’s slopestyle qualifiers.
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“It’s an absolute honor to be named to the 2018 U.S. Olympic Team and something that I’ve dreamt about since I was a kid,” said AJ. “It hasn’t been easy and it’s definitely a road less traveled. But my journey doesn’t end here; it continues. I’m not going to the Olympics to just go to the Olympics - I’m going to win medals!” AJ is a devoted family member, protective big brother, and fearless competitor. At just 23-years-old, he is the U.S. 2017, 2016 & 2015 National Champion in both PGS and PSL, and the first and youngest snowboarder to claim eight First Place podiums in the same NORAM season. He also recently secured for the fourth year in a row, a World Cup spot for TEAM USA for 2017/2018.
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But what makes AJ special is his determination and how much he has overcome. In early 2014, AJ suffered a life-threatening postoperative pulmonary edema after having routine shoulder surgery. Doctors didn’t think he’d recover and expected him to retire from the sport. But the devastating blow and setback didn’t slow him down or stop him from making his dream come true. AJ began racing the clock before he could even tell time. His need for speed started at the ripe age of just three-yearsold. In his early years, he competed in every discipline including Half pipe, Slope style, Boarder Cross and Alpine Racing. Proving quickly that he was a snowboarding prodigy, AJ’s family moved to Colorado
W INS •
January 2018 - Member of Team USA, 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang
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Sixth Place – PGS World Cup, Rogla, Slovenia (January 2018)
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Fourteenth Place – PGS World Cup, Lackenhof, Austria (January 2018)
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Eighth Place – PSL World Cup, Cortina, Italy (December 2017)
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Sixth Place – PGS World Cup, Cortina, Italy (December 2017)
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First Place – Slalom – Open Class, U.S. National Championship (April 2017)
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Seventh Place – World Cup, Pyeong Chang, Korea (2017 Season, Olympic Test Event)
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Eleventh Place – World Cup, Cortina, Italy (2016 Season)
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First Place – Slalom & Giant Slalom – NORAM – North American Champion (2015)
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First Place – Slalom – Open Class, U.S. National Championship (April 2015)
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First Place – Giant Slalom – Open Class, U.S. National Championship (April 2015)
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Eighteenth Place – World Cup, Sudelfeld, Germany (2015 Season)
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Third Place –Slalom – Open Class, U.S. National Championship (April 2014)
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First Place – Giant Slalom – Open Class, U.S. National Championship (April 2012)
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Third Place – Giant Slalom – Open Class, U.S. National Championship (April 2011)
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Four time U.S. Junior Alpine National Champion (2011, 2012, 2013, 2014)
for the winter when he was in 5th grade so he could start competing at a higher level. A four-time U.S. Junior National Champion, AJ competed in four consecutive World Championships qualifying for every year he was eligible and then moved on to be the National Champion four years in a row in the Open Class Division, qualifying him for the World Stage.
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4-time and current member of U.S. World Cup Team (2015, 2016, 2017, 2018)
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4-time member of U.S. Junior World Team (2011, 2012, 2013, 2014)
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Member of United States Snowboard Racing Team (2015-Current)
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Member of USASA National Development Team (2011-2015)
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Long time member, U.S. Project Gold Team (2008-Current)
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Legendary Banked Slalom – 1st Place, Next Generation (2007)
The 2016 North American Champion, AJ has won the most ‘North American Race to the Cup’ events ever in one season and is consistently ranked in the World’s Top 30 Alpine Snowboarders. He continues his climb by claiming a 7th place finish at the World Cup Olympic Test event in Korea last February and is on the hunt for a medal in 2018.
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Burton Development Team (2007- 2010)
R A NK INGS ( a s of 1 / 23 / 1 7 ) P GS W orl d S ta nding : 1 1 A l p ine Nor t h A me ric a n S ta nding : 1 CommunityMagazineNJ.com FEBRUARY 2018
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DIVORCE TALK: MEDIATION? Is mediation for you? The short answer is …maybe. Mediation is a process in which a jointly selected neutral third party (most often an attorney with vast experience in family law) helps a divorcing couple reach a settlement.
Peter C. Paras
is a shareholder in the Family Law Firm of Paras, Apy & Reiss, P.C. Selected as "Super Lawyer" by NJ Monthly 2006 – 2017. Included in Best Lawyers in America 2015 - 2017 For more information please see the firm’s website at www.par-law.com. The information in this article is not intended as legal advice. For legal advice you should consult your attorney.
Mediation can occur before the complaint for divorce is filed, after the complaint is filed or even as late as the beginning of trial. The facts and circumstances will dictate the timing. The common thread, whether there are dozens of unresolved issues, or just a few, is a desire to settle the case, but an inability to do so without help. What creates the impasses that make mediation the right option? It may be the complexity of the marital estate. Numerous interrelated businesses or the need to analyze voluminous records can often be handled in mediation in a more streamlined and cost effective way than in litigation.
BY PET E R C . PA R A S , E S Q. The logjam created by emotional issues which sometimes paralyze and polarize a couple can often be broken by the opinion and counsel of a neutral third party who isn’t advocating for either side. Situations involving other family members, for example, family businesses in which a relative’s economic future may be affected by the divorce, are other types of cases in which mediation may be the most appropriate path to settlement. Although mediation is generally most effective when both parties are represented by counsel, that certainly is not a requirement. In my experience, however, when a divorcing couple embarks on mediation without lawyers, the success rate diminishes because the spouse with the more dominant personality often uses (consciously or subconsciously) the mediation as a forum to impose his/her agenda on the other spouse.
Bonnie M.S. Reiss
Selected as “Super Lawyer” by NJ Monthly 2006 - 2017
Peter C. Paras
Selected as “Super Lawyer” by NJ Monthly 2006 - 2017 Included in Best Lawyers in America 2015 - 2017
Patricia E. Apy
2015 ABA Grassroots Advocacy Award recipient
Michael J. Fleres Elissa A. Perkins 2 Bridge Avenue • The Galleria Suite 601 • Red Bank, NJ 07701 Tel: 732.219.9000 • Fax: 732.219.9020
www.par-law.com
Celebrating 21 Years of Professionalism *Named by peer selection to the 2017 list of “Best Law Firms” in U.S.News-Best Lawyers, family law, Metro Tier 2.
A Professional Corporation For The Practice of Family Law 34
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The attorneys at Paras, Apy & Reiss, P.C. are highly involved in mediation. We represent many clients in mediations, ensuring that their rights and concerns are properly protected and adequately ref lected in the settlement. We can ensure that our clients’ best interests are not subrogated to the interests of the spouse. My partner, Bonnie M.S. Reiss, most often participates in mediation as the mediator. Bonnie’s vast experience in helping divorcing couples reach settlements (with or without counsel) has cemented her reputation as one of New Jersey’s most effective mediators. Mediation can be a most effective tool in the right case. Careful consideration, in consultation with your attorney, should be given to this option.
NAVESINK GARDEN CLUB OFFERS PROGRAM ON “Decorating with Succulents” On February 13, 2018 at 1:00 p.m., the Navesink Garden Club will present a program on “Decorating with Succulents”. Alicia Vacchiano, will give an overview of perennial succulents, designed arrangements and fun and interesting ways to use succulents in the garden. Alicia is owner of Plant Design Events, President of Wall Township Garden Club, Membership Chairman in Garden Club of New Jersey and is a Master Gardener. In telling her personal story, Alicia describes her journey from corporate America to following her passion for plants, gardening and all things in nature. Creating plant arrangements and sharing her knowledge with others through workshops give her the greatest of pleasure. The public is invited to attend free of charge at The Atrium, located at 40 Riverside Avenue in Red Bank. The Navesink Garden Club is inviting people interested in horticulture and design to attend one of its meetings, enjoy a warm and friendly welcome and learn what interesting projects the club will be doing. Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of the month from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at The Atrium from September to June. Visit the Navesink Garden Club at navesinkgardenclub.org for information on current happenings. The Navesink Garden Club is a member of The Garden Club of New Jersey, Inc. and the Central Atlantic Region of National Garden Clubs, Inc. Members come from far and wide.
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Water can be wonderful!
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The Ashley Lauren Foundation’s 7th Annual Butterfly Ball
FEB 2
ON SATURDAY, APRIL 21, 2018 beginning at 7:00 p.m. at the Spring Lake Golf Club in Spring Lake, guests will gather for The Ashley Lauren Foundation’s much anticipated 7th Annual Butterfly Ball, “The Fabulous Forties!” 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 New Jersey. The Ed Conte Orchestra will provide the music along with the entertainment of The Rat Pack. Guests will be able to bid on many fun and 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. Our guests will be transported back in time to enjoy all the fun of the Fabulous Forties. The Butterfly Ball serves as our largest fundraiser of the year to raise money for the many, many children we assist throughout New Jersey.” 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); 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. More details will be coming soon! Sponsorships and other ways to support this fabulous event are available at ashleylaurenfoundation.org.
Songbook: Steven Page and The Art of Time Ensemble
FEB 3
Goodnight Moon and The Runaway Bunny
FEB 14
The Birdland All-Stars featuring Tommy Igoe – The Art of Jazz FEB 17 MAR 8-17
Michael Lynch: R&B Legends
Celtic Nights – Oceans of Hope
MAR 21
MAR 24
MAR An Intimate Evening with Rickie Lee Jones 22
Group discounts available P For the complete 2017-2018 performance schedule, visit
grunincenter.org
Box Office Hours P Mon.-Fri. P 10:00am-5:00pm 732.255.0500 P College Drive P Toms River P NJ
www.CommunityMagazineNJ.com FEBRUARY 2018
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MEET THE AUTHOR!
AUTHOR LAUREL HUBER of Rumson will visit Oceanic Free Library on Saturday, February 10, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. Ms. Huber is the author of recently published historical fiction novel The Velveteen Daughter. This novel chronicles the life and career of child-prodigy artist Pamela Bianco, daughter of Margery Bianco, author of the beloved children’s classic The Velveteen Rabbit. Books will be available for purchase and autograph. Laurel Davis Huber grew up in Rhode Island and Oklahoma. She is a graduate of Smith College. She has worked as a corporate newsletter editor, communications director for a botanical garden, high school English teacher, and as senior development officer for both New Canaan Country School and Amherst College. She has studied with the novelist and short-story writer Leslie Pietrzyk (the 2015 Drue Heinz Literature Prize winner for This Angel on My Chest) and has participated in several writing residencies at the Vermont Studio Center. Ms. Huber and her husband split their time between Rumson and Maine. For more information, call 732.842.2692, “Like” Oceanic Free Library on Facebook, or visit oceaniclib.org.
House Tour Raises Funds
for VNA of Central Jersey’s Hospice Program
Members of the Holiday House Tour Committee gather at one of the Tour’s homes. Pictured left to right: Judy Brannan (Shrewsbury), Marianne Avigdor (Rumson), Patricia Micale (Holmdel), Pat Devine (Holmdel), and Paulette Roberts (Little Silver).
Volunteers and Holiday House Tour Committee members gather at one of the homes on the Tour. Pictured left to right: Lori Manzo (Rumson), Debbie Ansell (Deal), Claire Knopf (Rumson), Kathy McErlean (Long Branch), and Laurie and Rich Manhire of Clockworks Homes (Freehold).
VISITING NURSE ASSOCIATION HEALTH GROUP (VNA) recently celebrated the holiday season with a special event aimed at raising funds for its hospice program. The 44th Annual Holiday House Tour drew nearly 1,000 attendees to Rumson for the opportunity to catch a glimpse inside four magnificent homes. Coupled with funds raised by the annual Holiday Dinner Dance the following night (covered in our last issue) the VNA raised over $150,000 for the hospice program.
incredible homes of Monmouth County. As part of the selfguided tour, attendees were also invited to stop by Salt Creek Grille in Rumson for a special luncheon and to browse vendors featured at the event’s Holiday Gift Boutique. A portion of the proceeds from the lunch and the boutique benefitted the VNA.
A time-honored holiday tradition for many, the annual Holiday House Tour invites the community to step inside the
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These funds will support the VNA of Central Jersey’s Hospice Program which provides care for nearly 4,000 patients per year, regardless of their circumstances. Philanthropic funds also benefit complementary care like music and pet therapy, as well as enhanced bereavement services for families.
Ignitable Fitness provides experienced and fun studio functional aging personal training services for boomers and seniors in Monmouth County.
Fitness O
V
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Studio location: Atlantic Highlands
Group classes are also available at various locations. Certified Personal Trainer ACE Functional Aging Specialist Certified Ageless Grace Educator National “Fall Stop Move Strong” Fall Prevention Program Certification
Megan Callus | megan@ignitablefitness.com | www.ignitablefitness.com | 732.708.3232
One of the questions we always ask people in our Ignitable Fitness program is, “What are you currently doing for exercise?” At least 80% of the time, they say "walking". Some might disagree with me, but walking is NOT great exercise. In the NYT best selling book Younger Next Year, they define exercise as something that gets the heart rate up high enough so a normal conversation is unable to continue. Walking is WONDERFUL and we should all do more of it. Any movement is better than sitting and being sedentary. But, if we want to age and function at a high level, we MUST do more. We MUST focus on strengthening the muscles, which will lessen our risk of falling and allow us to continue things like hiking, biking and playing ball with our grandkids. It will also strengthen the bones lessening the chances of osteoporosis. We MUST get our heart rate to higher levels to
increase circulation of our blood, strengthen the walls of the heart and give us those “feel good” hormones. We MUST focus on core stabilization exercises that will keep our spine safe and upright and generate power for things like tennis and golf. We MUST focus on proprioceptive exercises that teach our body to balance and recover from near falls. You see, walking will not do much of any of this. Now, if you are very overweight and walking gets you breathing hard, then it IS exercise, and please do it. Fast walking up a hill would be another example that could be considered exercise for most. I know when I power walk up a steep hill, I am out of breath. The challenge when we age is to find things that get the heart rate up without putting knees and other joints in a high impact state. This is why we love to do things like inchworms, step ups and wood chops as great low impact tools in our Ignitable Fitness training sessions. Bottom line: if you feel walking is enough to keep you healthy and functionally active throughout your life, it’s time to reassess your fitness program.
"RENEW YOUR STRENGTH, BALANCE, ENERGY AND WELL-BEING FOR YOUR BEST YEARS YET." This information is not intended as medical advice. Check with your doctor prior to exercise.
LIVING WELL
Loving Life
TOM ZAPCIC PHOTOGRAPHY HEADSHOTS | EVENTS | COMMERCIAL tinyurl.com/tomzapcicphotography Call 732.547.0893
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Leo Buscaglia, American author and professor, also known as Dr. Love once said, “We’re made mostly by the people who surround us.” Would you agree? In this month of red hearts and dancing cupids, here’s what I’ve observed about the company we keep. I think Dr. Love is largely on target, but I also believe we’ve got to keep expanding our relational reach to keep life lovely and lively. Here are three ways to surround yourself with more fine friends this February: 1. LEARN A NEW LANGUAGE. French in February is oh so romantic, but pick a language that’s new and enlarging for you. Imagine where commanding this language might take you, near or far, to a new adventure in a foreign land or a local restaurant with an intriguing menu. Sure, you can learn a new language on your smart phone with an app like Duolingo, Babbel or Busuu, but you’ll meet more new friends if you learn the language in a community group setting. Bonne chance! 2. PICK A NEW SPORT to learn or hobby to enjoy with others. Chances are, beyond getting exercise or a cognitive boost, or both, you’ll meet new people and socialize after sweating. Athletes are raving about their love affair with wildly popular pickleball and others are taking the plunge with the cerebrally stimulative card game of bridge. New friends are waiting for you on and off center court. Find a new source of active inspiration to keep your February stoked. 3. IF AND WHEN YOU TRAVEL, seek out interesting conversation with strangers. This takes some practice but it’s really quite easy to get people to talk about themselves. Start with Dale Carnegie’s famous query, “So what do you do for fun?” Last month I had the pleasure of teaching yoga as a traveling resort pro in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico after a busy year of conference traveling. As we rolled out our yoga mats, I learned that two of our Iranian yogis started their lives in Holmdel many years ago as Bell Labs engineers. Their two sons were born in Riverview Hospital in Red Bank and had many fond memories of life in Monmouth County. Another yoga student worked for the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, and rubbed elbows with my niece in the Boston tourism industry. What are the chances? We compared travel and industry notes with many others by the poolside that week, but one thing was certain: Most people love sharing experiences and
making new friends to bring warmth and wonder to their lives. So get busy making Dr. Love proud this February and live well! DONNALYN GIEGERICH DonnaLyn Giegerich MBA CIC RYT is the CEO/President of DLG Consulting, an integrated leadership training company that supports talent agility and skills development. Conference keynoter and executive coach, she delights in helping others develop resiliency and reinvention at www. DonnaLynSpeaks.com. SM @DONNALYNSPEAKS | IG@DONNALYNCONSULTS
CALL FOR ENTRIES
into the Monmouth County Park System’s Juried Creative Arts & Music Festival
The Creative Arts & Music Festival will feature specially selected artists’ works of pottery, photography, jewelry, paintings and other mediums.
CALLING ALL ARTISTS! The Monmouth County Park System is seeking entries into its Creative Arts & Music Festival. This juried art show and sale is open to artists of every medium. Those interested in entering are invited to submit images for consideration. The application fee is $15 per person. Entries may be submitted online or by mail along with a CD of your work, entry form and fee. Rules and entry form are available at MonmouthCountyParks. com. The entry deadline is February 20, 2018. The Creative Arts & Music Festival will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 5th at Thompson Park, Lincroft. The festival will feature fine art vendors, live music, creative activities and food vendors. Thompson Park is home to the Park System’s Creative Arts Center, which hosts a variety of fine arts and craft classes throughout the year including ceramics, pottery, jewelry and painting. To learn more about the Creative Arts & Music Festival or the Park System, please visit MonmouthCountyParks. com or call 732-842-4000.
CALL 732.345.1400 TWORIVERTHEATER.ORG 21 BRIDGE AVENUE, RED BANK
"The Arc of Monmouth’s history began in 1949 when a group of parents came together to find a way to provide services for their children with intellectual and developmental disabilities when no such services existed."
NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT
THE ARC OF MONMOUTH The Arc of Monmouth offers support and assistance to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) as they learn to live, work, and participate in their communities. Proceeds from fundraisers held during the year benefit The Arc of Monmouth’s many programs. These programs include residential services, supported employment, behavioral healthcare, continuing education, family supports, and recreation. One of The Arc of Monmouth’s largest annual fundraisers is “Step Up for The Arc – A Walk & 5K” event to be held April 14, 2018 on the Asbury Park Boardwalk. Registration for the event and the after-party will both be held inside Convention Hall. Walker/ runner fee is $25 for ages 13 and up; walker/runner fee is $10 for ages 8 to 12. Children under 8 are free. Participants can also make a $50 donation in honor or in memory of a loved one and a customized yellow pennant, which will feature the person’s name, will be displayed at the event. Sponsorships are also available from $200 up to $10,000. Depending on the amount donated, each of the sponsorships receives a special benefit, such as name, logo and link on The Arc of Monmouth website; business/name printed on sign on the boardwalk; and priority location
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BY SUSAN MURPHY
for vending tables. Whether an Event Sponsor; Premier Sponsor; Gold, Silver or Bronze Medal Sponsor; 5k Sponsor; Boardwalk or Community Sponsor each one will greatly benefit The Arc of Monmouth’s Walk & 5K event!
prizes will be a pinball machine for your home. Rob Ilvento, the owner of the Silverball Museum was the honoree for The Arc of Monmouth Winter Glow Gala held in December. For more details, go to silverballmuseum.com.
Registration begins at 8:30 a.m.; the 5K Race begins at 9:00 a.m.; registration opens for the Walk at 10:00 a.m. and the Walk begins at 11:00 a.m. So plan to come early for bagels and coffee in the morning and stay for the bestever after-party, which will feature live music, carnival games, ice cream, plus hot dogs, sausage and peppers, and homemade chicken soup provided by the lodges of the 17th Masonic District. Visit arcofmonmouth.org/walk for more information about registration, sponsorships, joining an existing team or starting a new team.
The Arc of Monmouth’s history began in 1949 when a group of parents came together to find a way to provide services for their children with intellectual and developmental disabilities when no such services existed. The first meeting was at Red Bank Borough Hall and what emerged from that meeting has evolved into a large and growing agency now known as The Arc of Monmouth. According to its website, The Arc of Monmouth serves over 1,600 individuals in 20 locations throughout Monmouth County, providing employment, vocational, and educational services, adult training, community living programs, behavioral health care, social services and an abundance of enriching recreational activities. Thanks to the training these individuals receive at The Arc of Monmouth, many individuals are now working in the community, paying taxes and feeling a new sense of accomplishment and pride. Others reside in apartments or group homes with assistance from The Arc of Monmouth, and hundreds participate each year in recreational activities.
Another upcoming event which will benefit The Arc of Monmouth, as well as Autism New Jersey and Autism Speaks is the Sixth Annual Silverball Winter Gala that will be held on March 3, 2018 from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. at the Silverball Museum in Asbury Park. Tickets are $75 per person and cocktail attire is required. Included in the ticket price is live music, a grand buffet and seafood bar, and free play on 200 Classic Pinball and Arcade Games. There will be a silent auction and one of its top
COMMUNITY MAGAZINE www.CommunityMagazineNJ.com
What’s Not to LOVE About Valentine’s Day?
Assistance with Medicaid Applications Who needs a holiday to celebrate an emotion we should express every day for the important significant person in our lives… or perhaps persons? It should be one of the top priorities of the day to share your love and sentiment with those closest to your heart! For those of us who seem to get caught up in the day to day functions of life, allowing that wonderful feeling or expression slip through the day without mention, let’s take a moment of gratitude for Valentine’s Day. Of course letting him or her know that you love them should not require a holiday, but it’s nice to know that every February 14th we get a chance to express our love. How cool is that? A holiday set aside solely for the soulmate who completes you… your Valentine, if you will. This year, celebrate this Valentine’s Day with the ultimate symbol or should we say symbols of love with the Forevermark Diamond Tribute Collection, a new collection featuring elegant designs with multiple Forevermark diamonds. Perfect for symbolizing the distinct traits of the woman you adore. Begin your collection with stackable rings or dazzle her with the top trend of layering diamonds with necklaces or earrings. Every look showing a rare and beautiful Forevermark diamond for each unique quality she has.
Medicaid is not just for low income families. Most elderly adults will also require assistance. The costs associated with aging can very quickly deplete a lifetime of savings. Medicaid can also provide benefits if you or a family member become disabled.
We have over fifteen years of experience assisting with Medicaid applications. We work with families, financial institutions, healthcare facilities and attorneys.
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Reading Fortune: A Voice for the Ages THE T. THOMAS FORTUNE FOUNDATION presents “Reading Fortune: A Voice for the Ages,” on Wednesday, February 21, 2018 in conjunction with the Red Bank Public Library, as part of the 2018 African American Read-In, in honor of Black History Month. The doors will open at 6:00 p.m. for a meet and greet reception, with the presentation starting at 7:00 p.m. Fortune’s notable rise as an African American journalist, during the 19th and 20th Centuries, and as a social justice trailblazer, will be brought to life through his poetry, prose, letters, speeches excerpts, and editorials. Community members, along with youth from
the New Jersey Orators will present the works of Fortune, such as letters of correspondence with President Theodore Roosevelt and African American leader, Booker T. Washington, along with other writings that profoundly relate to the cultural attitudes, citizenry and resistance of “We the People,” today! The Red Bank Public Library is located at 84 W. Front Street. Please register to attend this event at 732.842.0690. On Saturday, February 24 from 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., a repeat performance of “Reading Fortune: A Voice for the Ages,” will take place at the Long Branch Public Library located at 328 Broadway. Doors will open at 2:30 p.m. for light
“Battle of the Bands”
refreshments. The 28th African American Read-In is a national celebration of African American Culture & Literature. Sponsored by the Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) and endorsed by the International Literacy Association.
STORY JULIANNA MEINZ
Local Musicians Duke it Out for Homeless Veterans
Pictured are the judges left to right, Anthony LePre (Red Bank), Linda Difeodle (Highlands), Jay Ambrose (Brooklyn), and Chuck (Asbury Park).
Patrons enjoying the food, drink, and bands.
Red Bank Elks Motorcycle Committee 233: Sergio Hjraj, Tyler Poyner, Bob Malletto (President), Chemayne Myers (PR), Kevin Lackner (Vice Pres), Paul Morello (Secretary).
DRINKS IN HAND, friends, family, and members of the community gathered at Red Bank Elks Lodge on January 13, 2018 to watch an impressive showing of local bands including Me and the 3 Others, Cigar Box Stompers, and Shut Up Gus, playing music ranging from funk to blues. However, it was M.A. Tappan and the Dirty Shine who took home the title of Best Band of 2018. The judges table included John Distasio from Slip Mickey, Chuck, the manager of Light My Fire, Red Bank Elk Anthony Le Pre, and Beth Kallareo of Van Brunt Logistics. “I will have to say,” reflected Red Bank Elk Chemayne Myers, “they took their job very serious[ly].”
a rich and talented local music scene, it reflected true community engagement, as all proceeds go to supporting homeless veterans. Money raised in ticket, food and drink sales will be dispersed in different fundraising events throughout the state and to the Elk-run Lyon’s Hospital.
contributing the event’s $500 prize money. Keynote sponsors World Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge, Ram of Shrewsbury and Queen Vacuum, a local carpet care company in Red Bank, helped to ensure that all funds went to benefit the cause.
But the night did more than showcase 44
Overall, the event was quite the success. Manor put it, “The crowd was The first of Red Bank Elks Lodge amazing, the bands made everything Committee’s two biggest fundraisers this run so smoothly and [had] amazing year (their Summer Bash on the River is talent.” Be sure to catch “Battle of the coming June 23rd), “Battle of the Bands” Bands” next year, on the second Sunday experienced an impressive turnout, in January, to watch the winners of M.A. raising just over $3,000 in ticket sales Tappan and the Dirty Shine defend their alone. This feat would not have been title and support homeless veterans, too. possible without headlining sponsor Van Brunt Logistics, owned and operated by Red Bank Elk Anthony Scocco,
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Manasquan Plunge to Benefit LADACIN Network
Executive Director Patricia Carlesimo of Rumson and Liz Hartnett at Manasquan Beach
Eager plungers dash into the Atlantic Ocean
Event Coordinator Joseph Russell of Manasquan and wife, Jeanette
Supporters of LADACIN Network, a local nonprofit, faced a cold dip in the Atlantic to enhance the lives of people with disabilities at the 10th Annual LADACIN Plunge at Main Beach in Manasquan on January 13, 2018. The event was held to support LADACIN’s educational, therapeutic, social, residential and support services for over 3,500 infants, children, and adults with complex physical and developmental disabilities or delays living in Monmouth and Ocean Counties. The event raised over $80,000 this year for a total of $823,000 in 10 years.
Joseph Russell, Jr. of Manasquan, Shareholder and Chair of the Family Law Department at Wilentz, Goldman & Spitzer P. A., Eatontown and Woodbridge, founded and coordinated the event. His cousin Elizabeth “Liz” Hartnett is a client of LADACIN Network, and has inspired his involvement in supporting the Agency. Liz’s father, J. Michael Hartnett, was a long-time Agency Board member and advocate for people with disabilities.
Participants were led to the beach by a US Marine Corps Color Guard and the Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh of Belmar to take the plunge, and 95.9 WRAT was there to broadcast from the event. Despite choppy water, 150 brave souls ran into the ocean. Post-plunge festivities included a buffet lunch provided by Leggett’s, a 50/50 raffle and a costume contest. Prizes were awarded to the top three individuals/teams who displayed the most creative costumes.
Leggett’s Sand Bar & Restaurant in Manasquan hosted the event, as they have for the past nine years.
To learn more about Network, visit ladacin.org.
LADACIN
Local Community Celebrates Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The Community Coalition of Red Bank hosted the 6th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Commemorative Celebration on January 15. The event took place at the Pilgrim Baptist Church of Red Bank and featured the Jazz Arts Academy, Arts for Hearts Dance Academy, the Spoken Poetic Word, the Performing Arts Ministry of Pilgrim, a video presentation of the Civil Rights Movement, and the choral music of the Red Bank Regional High School Concert Choir. The celebration was highlighted by the inspirational and challenging message from Rev. Eric Dobson of the Fair Share Housing Center of NJ. Local clergy from the Christian, Islamic and Jewish traditions participated in the celebration.
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Left to right: Pastor Terrence Porter, Senator Vin Gopal, and Red Bank Mayor Pasquale Menna
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Saint John Vianney High School
RCDS Extends the Giving Season with Year-Round Community Service Efforts
Aidan MacManus (center) and his fellow volunteers.
Offering! 4x4 Block Scheduling 14 AP Courses
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AIDAN MACMANUS steadied himself as a tower of packages wrapped in festive wrapping paper wobbled in his arms. He carried the precious cargo down the hall and placed them in the school auditorium for pick-up. A swarm of students followed, hands full of boxes and bags. Once they reached their destination they turned right around to fetch the next load. On the assembly line, mounds of gifts were moved, ready to be delivered to hundreds of families in need. Aidan, a seventh grader at The Rumson Country Day School, joined the entire student body, parents, faculty and staff who participated in The Giving Tree efforts to donate more than a thousand toys and gifts for Family and Children’s Services and Horizons Student Enrichment Program at RCDS. “This is the longest continuously run charitable program in Monmouth County,” explained Tiffany Senft, RCDS Parent Council Philanthropy Chair. “It started 109 years ago. Last year Family and Children’s Services served a record 600 families. The gifts are grouped for each family along with winter coats, diapers, wipes and grocery store gift cards so parents can have a normal Christmas at home. It’s really overwhelming to see how generous our community is.” “I like to give back to others because I know it will make people smile,” said Aidan. “I know what happiness feels like and I want others to feel that way. The excitement of waking up on Christmas with your family cannot be recreated — it’s the greatest feeling in the world. It’s not fair that everyone is not able to experience it. The Giving Tree makes that possible and I think it brings people together in many ways.” Aidan is not alone. The entire RCDS community regularly participates in activities that support local programs such as Meals on Wheels, The SPCA, Holiday Express, Lunch Break, Scarves for Soldiers and more. Just last week, students stuffed nearly 100 stockings for St. Luke’s Soup Kitchen in Long Branch. This past fall, RCDS students brought in over three tons of rice and beans for the Red Bank CROP Walk for Hunger. As an extension of our student
RCDS Upper School students stuff stockings for St. Luke’s Soup Kitchen.
RCDS Students prepare for the Red Bank CROP Walk for Hunger.
volunteer activities, 80+ RCDS students return to campus each summer to volunteer with Horizons Student Enrichment Program. Aidan volunteered with Horizons at their annual holiday party on December 20, 2017 and plans to join their program this summer as well. He is also involved in RCDS’ Service Learning program, an elective class available to upper school students during their activities period. The program is tied into the curriculum, serving as an integral part of the RCDS educational experience. “We are committed to raising socially-aware and compassionate citizens,” said Amy Clark, RCDS Service Learning Coordinator. “We currently have 35 students enrolled in the Service Learning elective. This elective provides them with the opportunities to recognize the needs of others, problem solve solutions, tap into their own talents, and share a positive moment with someone else. The students are dedicated to serving the community through meaningful, hands-on activities. Two or three times each month we visit The Atrium, an assisted living facility; The Harbor School, a school for special needs students; and our Pre-K/nursery program on campus. The smiles say it all…everyone benefits from these moments. I am so grateful to be involved in this program and to be able to provide an experience like this.” RCDS seventh and eighth graders will have the opportunity to choose the Service Learning elective again early in the New Year. Meanwhile, RCDS will continue to provide opportunities throughout the 2017-2018 school year for its community to give back, including the Have a Heart Food Drive this month.
Tower Hill Concert Series Features the Voices of ‘Kinnara’ Barber’s “Reincarnations,” and Aaron Jay Kernis’ “Ecstatic Meditations.” The performance is an event of the Tower Hill Concert Series.
THE 32-VOICE KINNARA ENSEMBLE will perform in concert March 2, 2018 at 7:00 p.m. at Tower Hill First Presbyterian Church at Red Bank, located at 255 Harding Road. Led by Artistic Director J.D. Burnett, the ensemble will present a program of 20th century masterpieces including Ralph Vaughan Williams’ “Three Shakespeare Songs,” Samuel
CHANGING LIVES
Kinnara’s mission is “to engage the public in exemplary choral experiences that speak to the modern soul.” Comprising some of the nation’s finest ensemble and solo singers, Kinnara Ensemble is a professional choir based in Princeton, NJ, that performs a wide variety of standard repertoire from all eras. Musicians come together from all over the country to prepare each concert series. Kinnara singers also perform with other nationally known professional ensembles such as Conspirare and the Santa Fe Desert Chorale. J. D. Burnett
and one time or another we’ve all heard about a Big Brother or Big Sister helping in the community. But if you’re like me, you’ve had little knowledge of how necessary the mentoring and services of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Monmouth and Middlesex Counties (BBBS) have become, or how many opportunities there are to get involved and help.
Big Sister Cassie and Little Sister Jordan
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There is no charge for admission to the concert. An offering will be taken to offset concert series expenses. The church is handicapped-accessible. The Tower Hill Concert Series has provided inspirational musical events for more than 40 years. For additional information on concert series events, call 732.747.1348 or seetowerhillchurch.org.
One Child at a Time
It’s a program that’s been around for 114 years
Big Brother Joshua and Little Brother Daniel
is a conductor, singer, and teacher. He is assistant professor of music and associate director of choral activities at the University of Georgia’s Hugh Hodgson School of Music, where he conducts the men’s and women’s glee clubs and the Collegium Musicum, and teaches courses in choral literature and conducting.
Starting in Monmouth County in 1976, the organization expanded to include Middlesex County in 2011, avoiding thousands of children. Currently there are 700 children being served with 1-to-1 mentoring with many more on the waiting list due to a lack of adult volunteers. By placing children in a quality mentoring relationship, BBBS is able to provide them with the tools they need to become competent, confident, and caring members of their community. January was designated as National Mentoring Month, but the need children have exists every month of the year. BBBS is funded mainly through community support, meaning the agency receives little government funding. Relying on the generosity of volunteers, the agency needs: funds to recruit, screen, train, and match the volunteer mentors with a child; and volunteers to step up and make a one-year commitment to be a mentor four to six hours per month. Because of the large number of boys on the waiting list, male mentors are especially in need.
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STORY CATHY PADILLA
“We are changing our community for the better – one child at a time,” says Marybeth Bull, director of development for the BBBS. “The kids who are being mentored are less likely to engage in risky behaviors such as tobacco, drug, and alcohol use, and are more likely to avoid violence. Instead, they feel more confident, do better in school, and know that they have a friend in their Big with an ear to listen, a shoulder to lean on, and who pushes them in the right direction.” To keep things exciting and stimulate learning and bonding, BBBS offers free activities that Bigs, Littles, and children waiting to be matched can attend. The activities are usually on a monthly basis and include parties, cooking classes, and career exploration. The Beyond School Walls program has Monmouth University students and employees of Monmouth Medical Center mentoring Asbury Park High School students. Sessions are every other week and expose the high school students to both college and career opportunities. “Our program is life-changing for both the child and their Big,” says Bull. “The child’s self-esteem, grades, and relationships often improve and they can see success in their future. The Bigs get to see life through the eyes of a child again and feel good about making a positive impact on a young life.” To learn more, or to get involved, visit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Monmouth & Middlesex Counties at bbbsmmc.org.
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Pierson Dey, US Army, Honored by Fair Haven Community his footsteps. “Pierson, if you ever need anything, just reach out to any Wall of Honor Committee Member and we will be there for you with anything you need. Keep your head held high, and keep moving forward, son.” Fellow veteran and Wall of Honor Committee member Joe Perrotto offered remarks as well.
Wall of Honor Co-Chair Joe Perrotto (left) and Pierson Dey, US Army, celebrate the unveiling of the Pierson’s photo (top right corner) on the Knollwood School Wall of Honor.
ONCE AGAIN, members of the Fair Haven school community have proudly honored a local graduate serving in the armed forces. The Knollwood School Wall of Honor Committee held a photo unveiling ceremony on December 29, 2017 for Pierson Dey, US Army. Dey is a member of the Knollwood School Class of ’13, Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School Class of ’17, and has participated in the Fair Haven Future Firefighters program. On December 31, 2017, Pierson traveled to Fort Campbell, Kentucky for Air Assault and Airborne training with the 101st Airborne Division. In March, he will head to the Joint Readiness Training Center at Fort Polk, Louisiana. He will deploy in April. The special Guest Speaker at the photo unveiling ceremony for Pierson was Army veteran Darryl Breckenridge, former Police Chief of the Borough of Fair Haven. Also former Fair Haven Fire Chief, Breckenridge is a charter member of the Fair Haven Future Firefighters, which he joined in 1972 going on to serve as President. Presently, he is Director of the Monmouth County Police Academy, responsible for the training of all police recruits. He is a member of the Knollwood School Wall of Honor Committee. “When you look at the many photos on this Wall of Honor, and you look at the size of our small town, it’s just amazing that so many Knollwood graduates decide to join the armed forces in order to protect and serve our country,” said Breckenridge. “It all comes back to Fair Haven, and the way in which parents raise their kids. Pierson’s parents have done a fine job of raising their son and making him a man. Pierson doesn’t have to give back to his country, but he has decided to do just that – and his parents are as well, by laying the foundation for him. I am so very proud of Pierson, since he is taking the same path as I did by serving in the Future Firefighters and now serving in the Army. Pierson is laying a strong foundation for his life by making great choices, and we are all just so proud of him here in Fair Haven.” Following his formal address to the crowd, Breckenridge had a personal message to share with the young man following in
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“Through my involvement with the Fair Haven Fire Department, I got to know Pierson when he was serving as a Future Firefighter, and I was very impressed by him,” Perrotto said. “Pierson was dedicated to learning the fundamentals of firematics as well as taking on responsibilities to serve the community and learning what it is really like to be a firefighter. Pierson approached me on a few occasions to ask about my service, and we had some great conversations. When I found out that he had enlisted, I was not at all surprised. The Wall of Honor Committee, the Borough of Fair Haven, and the Knollwood School community are all very proud of all the graduates who are serving their country in a very, very dangerous world. Pierson, in my eyes, the U.S. Army is lucky to have you in its ranks. I know that everyone here today is very proud of you, and I could not be prouder of you myself.” Covered by an American flag, Pierson’s photo was unveiled by Darryl Breckenridge at the conclusion of the ceremony and is now officially added to the Knollwood School Wall of Honor. Featuring Knollwood School graduates who are proudly serving their country in the armed forces, the Wall of Honor is located in the prominent main hallway of the school. It was commissioned in 2011 by Co-Chairs Betsy Koch, an eighth grade science teacher at the school, and Joe Perrotto, who served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Dey was joined at the unveiling ceremony by family members, teachers and administrators, and supporters from the community. These included Wall of Honor Co-Chair Joe Perrotto and as well as members of the Wall of Honor Committee: Superintendent of Schools Sean McNeil, Fair Haven Mayor Ben Lucarelli, and former member of the Fair Haven Board of Education Katy Frissora, who was instrumental in organizing the ceremony. Also on the Committee but unable to attend the ceremony, were Wall of Honor Co-Chair Betsy Koch and Special Education teacher Nicole Bryant. Also unable to attend, was Knollwood School Buildings and Grounds Supervisor Rick Robbins, who designed and built the Wall of Honor display. At the conclusion of the ceremony, Pierson thanked the Wall of Honor Committee members and all those in attendance. He also expressed gratitude for the support of the Fair Haven community and the fact that he was home for the holidays. “My mom bought my plane ticket, so I am especially grateful to her,” he said. The Wall of Honor was made possible with funding from the Knollwood School Student Council. Pierson’s photo will remain on display for the duration of his service on active duty.
Rob Orrok Named RFH “Educator of the Year” ROB ORROK, a Physical Education teacher, has been announced as Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School’s “Educator of the Year.” He was notified of his selection on December 1, 2017 by RFH Superintendent Pete Righi, Principal Tracy Handerhan, World Language Supervisor Seth Herman, Vice Principal Stephen Sarles, and World Language teacher and previous Educator of the Year, Christine Berg. Now in his sixth year of teaching at RFH, Orrok works in constant collaboration with his colleagues and his supervisor, Sharon Bryant, to develop advances in physical education. These advances include the Choice System for the daily selection of rotating activities by students. “The Choice System has given us the ability to put the students in charge of their own learning,” he said. “We have seen many positive effects, including an increase in the participation and engagement levels of all students. We have also developed a universal grading approach to allow for a more comprehensive evaluation of students while utilizing the Choice System.”
Orrok, who was named Head Strength and Conditioning Coach for RFH in 2014, has achieved the following accomplishments and honors as well implemented an effort and leadershipbased approach to the evaluation of Physical Education students: collaborated with many of his colleagues and members of the administration – including Tom Buffa, Frank Gripp, Chris Lanzalotto, Joe Murphy, Chuck Pittman, Physical Education teacher Rob Orrok is RFH and Ross Reed – on the design, outfitting, Educator of the Year. and construction of the cutting-edge RFH “I love working at RFH, and having the Fitness Center; worked with assistant opportunity to teach students who want coaches, including Andrew Hudson, to learn and be successful,” Orrok said. Chris Quinn, and Eric Zullo to create and “It’s great to have people around me who manage all in-season/off-season training share common goals and are willing to programs throughout the year, as well as put themselves second to the betterment to schedule all off-season groups, and of the school and the students.” perform data/record collection; helped Orrok is a Certified Strength and enhance the cafeteria menu in order to help students and faculty members Conditioning Specialist (NCSA C.S.C.S.) understand more about nutrition and and is Functional Movement Screening eat healthier foods; and worked with certified. He earned a degree in Supervisor of Technology Chris Alworth movement and sports studies from and Network Administrator Sal Catalano Springfield College in Massachusetts, to tie technology into the fitness center where he majored in Health Studies and and school cafeteria, via television and minored in Health. While at Springfield, Orrok spent four years on the football digital signage software. team.
RFH Football Standout Elijah McAllister Signs with Vanderbilt University AFTER RECEIVING SEVERAL OFFERS, RFH football standout Elijah McAllister has signed to play for Vanderbilt University. The Early Football Signing Day took place in the RFH lower library on December 20, 2017. Elijah saw playing time on the RFH Varsity football team as a freshman, and began his sophomore year as a wide receiver. He missed his junior year due to an injury. He was named All Division and 1st Team All Shore during his senior year, and served as a team captain. In addition to playing football, Elijah is a starter on the RFH basketball team. “Elijah has been a leader since day one here,” said RFH Assistant Football Coach Jeremy Schulte. “He was brought up as a freshman and you could tell that he
was going to be something we’ve never really had here. His maturity and leadership have been what has stuck out the most over the past four years. This was his first year playing defensive end, and he did an outstanding job – earning both All Division and All Shore honors.” Schulte noted that even Elijah McAllister celebrates with his RFH teammates after when he was recovering signing to play football at Vanderbilt University. from both ACL tears, Elijah was a constant presence on factor immediately. Size, strength, and the field and in the weight room. arm length are all ‘x’ factors. They’re also “Vanderbilt is getting the whole getting a hard-working, motivational package,” Schulte said. “His athleticism player who I’m sure will be a leader and explosiveness are going to be a immediately. We’re all very proud and happy for Elijah.”
www.CommunityMagazineNJ.com FEBRUARY 2018
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RBR SOURCE and BUC Backer Foundation Collaboration Assured all RBR Students a Merry Christmas
Pictured (left to right) are: SOURCE Director Suzanne Keller, Buc Backer President Claire Harbeck Izzo, and SOURCE Youth Development Specialist Lori Lopez with just a few of the gifts donated by the greater RBR community.
Like many school districts, the Red Bank Regional (RBR) community gears up for the holidays to help all those in need from coat and food drives to gift-giving for homeless families and unwanted pets. However, RBR is also very sensitive to the needs within its own walls. Ever since Super Storm Sandy struck and devastated so many RBR families, a partnership between the school’s foundation, The BUC Backers, and its school-based Youth Services Program, the SOURCE, made the holidays merrier for those students who would ordinarily go without. The Source which works to address the needs of these students all year round, identified 37 RBR families that could greatly benefit from this largesse. Wish lists were created and then distributed with numerical identifications to protect everyone’s privacy. Social Media was employed to seek donations from the greater RBR community through the ease of Sign-Up Genius. In all, over $5,000 in festively wrapped gifts and gift cards were donated, bringing holiday cheer to many RBR homes. This year, BUC Backer president Claire Harbeck Izzo was able to simplify the gift-giving process for donors with the option of on-line purchases. Additionally, she sought donations from the greater business community, including MedForce. Claire Harbeck Izzo states, “We love working together with the SOURCE and try to grow this program every year.” SOURCE Director Suzanne Keller adds, “We are so appreciative of all our BUC Backer parents and staff in meeting the needs of our community during the holiday season.”
RBR Strings Ensemble Perform for Shrewsbury Homesteaders The RBR Visual and Performing Academy have participated in a winter tradition over the past few years of performing for the Shrewsbury Homesteaders at its January meeting. This year, RBR strings teacher and Strings Ensemble Director Jeffrey Boga took RBR string students to serenade the homesteaders with baroque, classical, American folk, pop and contemporary pieces. The students opened their performance with Vivaldi’s “Autumn” and concluded with the transcendent “Ode to Joy” by Beethoven. Throughout the performance, Mr. Boga offered information on the evolution of classical music to a very receptive audience. He also discussed RBR’s renowned and long-standing VPA program which has trained musicians in the area for over 35 years. He explained that while not everyone can become a professional musician, “Music will teach self-discipline and critical listening skills that will serve them for life." Shrewsbury Homesteader Vice President and Program Chair Carolyn Alt stated, “After the performance, I heard so many comments from the forty-some Homesteaders present on how much they enjoyed having these talented young people come to us and what a joy it was to experience such local excellence. I could have listened to them all afternoon.” Pictured are members of the RBR Strings Ensemble groups with Shrewsbury Mayor Don Burton and the Shrewsbury Homesteader leaders. The students, led by their teacher Jeffrey Boga, performed for the civic group at their January 11 meeting. They are (left to right): Emma DeLorenzo, Monica Alvarado, Jennifer Mendez-Romero, Jocelyn Mendez Romero, Max Huerta, Aidan Dougherty, Shrewsbury Mayor Donald W. Burden, Elle Chrampanis, Valeria Campos-Gonzalez, Salvatore Giglio, Homesteader Vice President Carolyn Alt, RBR teacher and Strings Director Jeffrey Boga and Homesteader President Bob Donohue.
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COMMUNITY MAGAZINE CommunityMagazineNJ.com
CBA Awards Presidential Scholarships to Middle Schoolers
Christian Brothers Academy awarded 14 Presidential Scholarships on Wednesday, January 10th to eighth graders who scored exceptionally high on the Academy’s entrance exam. The Presidential Scholarships are part of CBA’s expanding Scholarship Initiative, which began in 2012. The Scholarship Initiative goal is, as its tagline states, to make the impossible possible for qualified students to attend CBA. It was CBA’s first president, Brother Andrew O’Gara, who made it his mission to make CBA affordable for any qualified student. Brother Andrew’s vision continues on with the Scholarship Initiative, as CBA now awards nearly 50 full and partial scholarships to deserving students. One of the three Presidential Scholarships bears Brother Andrew’s name. The second scholarship honors St. John Baptist de La Salle, the founder of the Brothers of the Christian Schools, who has operated CBA since its opening in 1959. The third scholarship, the Founders’ Scholarship, is in memory of the three laymen founders of the Academy: John Henderson, Peter Fleming, and Dr. George Sheehan. The Academy awards a combined $1.5 million in scholarships and financial aid to its current students. “We congratulate all the winners of the Presidential Scholarships,” said CBA President Brother Frank Byrne ’75. “These Presidential Scholarships are each named after individuals who have a significant connection to the work we do at CBA. The students who received the scholarships have demonstrated in middle school that they are qualified to earn such an award.” The 14 winners of the Presidential Scholarships were in attendance at a short award ceremony on January 10, 2018 in CBA’s Quinn Library. The students were invited to bring their parents and their middle school administrators to share in the special moment. The award-winning schools included: Bayshore Middle School (Middletown): Nicholas Drew, Nicholas Habakus; Cedar Drive Middle School (Colts Neck): Dylan Eschinger; Holy Innocents School (Neptune): TC Taylor; Knollwood School (Fair Haven): Luke Ronayne, Peter Rawlins; Markham Place School (Little Silver): Dylan Cupo; Oak Hill Academy (Lincroft): Justin Weber; St. Catherine’s School (Holmdel): William Hines; St. Jerome’s School (West Long Branch): Corey Zeitlinger; St. Leo’s School (Lincroft): Andrew Sasso, Jason Gentile, Adian Guinnessey; and Thompson Middle School (Middletown): Shane Wedlock.
Luke Ronayne with Knollwood School Principal Amy Romano (far left), his parents, CBA President Brother Frank Byrne, and CBA Principal Ross Fales. Photo credit: Lucas Capone/CBA
Jason Gentile with St. Leo’s School Principal Neil Begley (far left), his parents, CBA President Brother Frank Byrne, and CBA Principal Ross Fales. Photo credit: Lucas Capone/CBA
Local Middle Schoolers Raise Funds for Pets with Cancer
Seventh and eighth graders of the Community Service Alliance at Eatontown Memorial School recently raised funds for The Brodie Fund, which was organized by teacher Jill Wetzel. In total, $150 was raised for pets with cancer. Sally Williams, founder and director of The Brodie Fund, visited the school, met with the students and spoke to them about Brodie, and showed pictures of pets the Fund has helped. The Brodie Fund raises money to offer financial assistance, through grants, to families who have pets fighting cancer. No pet should be denied the treatments they need in the fight of their lives because of the owner’s inability to pay. Working in conjunction with participating hospitals and doctors, The Brodie Fund will be able to help pay for life extending and lifesaving procedures. In other instances, when families are just seeking a higher quality of life for their pets in the time they have left, The Brodie Fund is here, too. The Brodie Fund knows that our pets are not just pets, but family. For more information, visit thebrodiefund.org.
Fair Haven Native Madison Bess Earns Olympics Internship with NBC Sports Madison Bess of Fair Haven, has been selected by NBC Sports to assist with the network’s coverage of the 2018 Winter Olympic Games, to be held February 9th through February 25th in Pyeongchang, South Korea. Bess is majoring in Journalism at the Roy H. Park School of Communications at Ithaca College. A total of 29 students from the Park School will be serving in essential behind-the-scenes roles at the world’s biggest athletic event. Bess will be working as a production associate at the NBC Sports broadcast and production facility in Stamford, Connecticut. “I’m most excited to be working for NBC and for the Olympics,” said Bess. “I grew up loving to watch the Olympics.”
CommunityMagazineNJ.com FEBRUARY 2018
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Embrace Your Pace STORY JANEEN YODAKIS
D
o you want to live a happier and healthier life? How would you like to experience an increase in energy and fitness level, strengthen your cardiovascular system, boost your bone density, increase your attention span and creative problem-solving skills? Wait, there’s more! How about decreasing your risk of heart attack, cancer, diabetes and depression along with experiencing better quality sleep? Are you beginning to feel like you’re listening to one of those infamous infomercials? I promise you, this is no gimmick. What I will tell you about is real and it’s free. All of what you just read can be found in nature. Nature is all around us. It’s everywhere. Nature yields to your mood, your needs and meets you where you are, while offering restorative, creative and healing powers. I found all these things at the Manasquan Reservoir and so can you! This breathtaking trail has it all, from the most amazing water views, birds of every feather, endless flora and fauna, and if you’re lucky, an equestrian and her horse. Today was my lucky day, as I had the pleasure of meeting Emily and George. George was the horse, a big, gorgeous horse with which I was only too happy to share my trail. Every single health benefit at the beginning of this article and more can be achieved without spending a single
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dime; all you need is a small amount of time to head out to the great outdoors. Sadly, some people will be disappointed that these health benefits can’t be bought. It’s a hard truth, but in today’s world, we have been trained and programmed to expect things quickly and easily. Google, Amazon Prime, Netflix and several other internet giants have made getting what we want too easy. Think about how frustrated you get when you text someone and they don’t respond immediately? How much do you or people you know panic, really panic, when they can’t find their phone? Adults, myself included, and children alike have become so connected to technology that to disconnect causes withdrawal and deep frustration. This is a serious problem on so many levels. For example, “Fifty percent more teens suffered from major depression in 2015 versus just four years before. The suicide rate for teen girls is at its highest level since 1975. Twice as many children and teens are now hospitalized for self-harm or suicidal thoughts. More teens say that they are lonely and feel hopeless.” – Psychology Today. What is the cause of this terrifying phenomenon? You got it, too many hours using social media and not enough time socializing face to face and not getting outside. I am not telling you anything new, but I am encouraging you and the ones you love to do something new. Go hiking! Just 30 minutes a day, two days a week, will produce amazing
physical, mental and emotional benefits. One must disconnect to truly connect! “It’s good for the soul,” says Kate Gant. She should know. She just recently completed all 2,184 miles of The Appalachian Trail. But don’t worry; you don’t have to be a superwoman like Kate to enjoy the benefits of hiking! Nature asks us for nothing, yet gives us everything. The peace and tranquility found on a trail is indescribable. There are no walls, no deadlines and no distractions (mute your phone). The family struggles, stressful job, financial challenges and any other trials and tribulations are checked at the trail head; leave them. It’s just you and the trail; the wilderness, wild and free. Give yourself this gift of “me” time. You deserve it. Do you already hike or are you interested in getting started? I want to hear from you. If there is a trail you would like me to write about or better yet, if you want to share your trail with me, I can do a story about you! We are a community of people who share a common goal we want to be happy and healthy. So let’s do this together! Drop me a line at hiking4everrocks@gmail.com and share your hiking thoughts or stories.
Remember to embrace your pace— and not just in hiking. You’re an amazing individual with immeasurable worth. Don’t look to the person to your left or to your right, you’re not them! Embrace who you are, where you are. There’s no such thing as a bad path, except for the one from which nothing is learned. Take time to explore, feed your sense of wonder and whatever you do, get outside. Thank you and God Bless!
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Carmine & Phyllis Visone Holmdel Couple Achieves Success Through a Life of Giving, Love, Hard Work & Compassion
C
armine and Phyllis Visone traveled a path filled with twists and turns to live the life they feel so blessed to lead. When they first met there was no way for them to know they would one day be running Home Away From Home Academy (HAFHA) and be the authors of The Visone Method, a New Philosophy in Early Childhood Education, a published book on their theory of education. When peeking into their journey, you find the experiences they had throughout their lives are built into all they do today. Nothing they are experiencing now was planned, but they wouldn’t change a thing, and couldn’t imagine it any other way. Carmine and Phyllis met when they were both 14-years-old, building a friendship while performing together in a theater group in Brooklyn, NY. “The first time I saw her I actually fell in love,” Carmine shared. “I fell in love and I didn’t want, or see, anything else in my life. It was just insane.” It was the laughter that Carmine brought into her life that won Phyllis over. “Laughter and his family,” she said. “He used to make me laugh, and I loved that. And I loved his family, his family was amazing. I tease him saying I fell in love with his family before I fell in love with him.” Family is the driving force in all the couple does. When sharing a picture of the family they have built together, Carmine’s love, joy, and pride are obvious. “This is what we made, this is what we have been blessed with,” he said. Their blessings so far have been filled with both wonderful and challenging times, all traveled with love, perseverance and a stronghold on family values and traditions. Growing up, the experiences of Carmine and Phyllis were different in some ways, but similar in what mattered most, showing unity and love. continued on next page...
Story: Shanna Polignone Photos: Melissa Amorelli Photography
Carmine and Phyllis Visone with their eight grandchildren (top row, left to right) James, Matthew, Jake, Joey (bottom row, left to right) Emma, Reese, Ava and Lila.
I tease him saying I fell in love with his family before I fell in love with him
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Phyllis was raised by her mother, a single parent who worked hard to provide for her children not just in material things but in lessons of strength, as well as a spirit of generosity and giving. Phyllis reminisced about how her mother would always invite in anyone who needed a place for a holiday dinner. It didn’t matter if their space was limited, “what’s another bowl” her mother would say. Carmine was raised by both his parents and grandparents in a traditional Italian home, one with Sunday dinners in a house full of family - “the cousins, the aunts, the uncles, this is the basis of my life now,” Carmine said. Carmine’s grandfather was his role model and mentor. His grandfather was a very successful entrepreneur, and his success sparked a passion for business in Carmine that would stay with him the rest of his life. Carmine’s first business, detailing cars, began during college. He used the money he made from that business to buy an engagement ring for Phyllis. By their junior year of college, they were married. The newlyweds were just 22-years-old when they brought the first of their three children into the world, a son named Keith. Over the next few years the couple went on to have two daughters: Jaime and Kristen. After college, Carmine began a career in finance, always keeping businesses on the side to provide the extras for his family. Phyllis worked in personnel for Chase Manhattan Bank before deciding to stay home with their children. As the children got older, she volunteered at their school and worked part-time in a day care. Carmine’s strong work ethic presented him with opportunity and promotion, and he would become the Regional Senior Vice President for an international bank. This position required entertaining clients from all over the world. They came from England and Holland and the family welcomed them by cooking dinners, singing songs, and introducing them to American traditions. As Carmine’s career grew, the
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family's home had to grow, too. So Phyllis and Carmine, ready to get away from city life, began to look in New Jersey for a home they both loved. After coming across St. Catherine’s Church, they narrowed their search to Holmdel. “It had to be my Church,” Phyllis explained on their decision to make the move. When their realtor brought them to see a home that had been burnt to the ground, the two thought that she was out of her mind. They toured the property anyway and saw the beauty through the charred remains. “We got out of the car and we walked the property,” Carmine said. “It was a disaster zone, but as we walked through, Phyllis and I were overwhelmed by something I can’t even put words to, we just knew that this land was beautiful and we decided on that day to buy that burnt down piece of property.” Together they would build their dream home on that land. During the building of the house and the move, there would be much tribulation for the family. Phyllis’s mother fell ill, and within six months she would die from cancer. “It was a horrific time for us,” Carmine explained, “but we stood together as a family.” With the children in school full time, and her mom’s passing, Phyllis, a cancer survivor herself, decided to find something to keep her busy. When driving down Route 34, she saw a sign that said ‘school coming’, called the number, met with the owner, and went to work at the school. To Phyllis, working with children was her passion, and her true joy, so when she was asked if she wanted to buy the school, she said no. “I just loved being with the little ones,” she said. It was Carmine’s entrepreneurial nature that would change her life forever. One day at dinner with the then owners, Phyllis stepped away from the table only to return to have Carmine announce to her, “Guess what! We bought the school!” It was his love for business and the foresight he had that prompted Carmine to say yes to buying what is now Home Away From Home Academy in Aberdeen. As more families saw both parents at work, the need for day care began to grow. His grandfather had taught him that if you want to be successful in business, you have to provide something people need every day - day care was right up that alley. Everything seemed to be working together when Carmine was asked to move to Chicago for his career and to take Phyllis and the family along with him. After long debates, it was decided the Visones would not go. “I had to say goodbye to that job,” Carmine said. “We didn’t really think the job was going to end. We thought they would find something for me here, and they didn’t. I was very distraught, and had to reinvent myself. For two to three years following that, I worked at other banks, but at the same time I put a lot of work into the school and it was beginning to grow and profit.”
Together Carmine and Phyllis put their hearts and souls into the school and focused on its growth and purpose. The school began to thrive, partly from the love they had for children and partly from their philosophy of education. “We believe that the brain advances a lot more than we know,” Carmine said. “From 0-7 years old our brains develop 50% of the knowledge we will obtain in our lives. What we do at Home Away From Home is capitalize on this period of time in a caring, loving, and safe way. We use family values, art, music, and academics, mix it all in a big bowl, and apply it in a structured fashion.” Today, HAFHA is an accredited private school with over 200 students and 40 teachers on staff. Carmine’s role in the school is marketing and finance, where his master’s degree in management and finance from St. John’s University can be utilized, while Phyllis concentrates on academics. Carmine laughs as he tells about their occasional business disagreements and how Phyllis is known to say, “this may be your business, but this is my life.” As she says, “He’s the brain and I’m the heart.” As Phyllis describes her love for the school, a glow comes over her face. “I don’t know what I would do without this school, I just don’t. I am at my happiest when I am in the classroom. The love you get from the children makes your day better.” Carmine and Phyllis are not exactly sure how they got here, to the life they thank God for and identify as blessed. “This all just sort of happened,” Phyllis explains, “I believe in a guiding force that got us here today.” Their son, Keith, is now married to Adrienne Concepcion; the two met and fell in love while both working at Home Away
from Home Academy. They are raising three boys, Jake, Joey, and James. Keith followed his father’s entrepreneurial spirit and owns Honey Baked Ham in Middletown and Adrienne is an elementary school teacher. Both Visone daughters married Holmdel boys. Jaime, a speech pathologist, married Michael Roche, a financial executive, and they are raising Ava, Emma, and Lila. Kristen is married to William Corrigan, a Port Authority detective, and they are raising Reese and Matthew. Kristen became a Kindergarten teacher and currently works at Home Away From Home Academy. Looking back on her children’s weddings, Phyllis is heart-warmed by the fact that she herself wrote the songs that she danced with her son to, as well as, the songs that Carmine danced with his daughters to. All while recovering from cancer, she poured her heart into lyrics that will last a lifetime. It is a legacy for them all to have this personalized music to commemorate these occasions. Family tradition is woven throughout every part of their lives. Most Sundays, and every holiday, they host family dinners where you can find up to 30 people at their home. “It looks like a catering hall here,” Carmine describes it, “but it’s not, nothing is catered. Phyllis cooks it all, making over 100 meatballs alone and of course always a Honey Baked Ham.” “Our days are long,” Phyllis tells, but they always find the time to fill them with the things they love - movies, theater, musicals, spending time with their friends, and spending time with the grandchildren. And that church that Phyllis fell in love with so many years ago? They both spend their
Guess what! We bought the school!
Phyllis Visone doing what she loves, being with the children of Home Away From Home Academy.
Carmine Visone hard at work at Home Away From Home Academy in Aberdeen.
Sundays working at St. Catherine’s Church, with Phyllis as a Eucharistic Minister, and Carmine as a Co-Head Usher. With passion driving them, Phyllis and Carmine never seem to tire. For the last seven years, Carmine continues to hold the position of Chairman of the Economic Business Council in Aberdeen, acting as liaison between the business community, and the township government, which in turn promotes economic development. Both are involved in many philanthropic organizations, raising funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Association, organizing toy drives, and recently being presented with the 2017 Humanitarian of the Year Award by the Hope for Children Foundation. The school was also recently awarded top school in its division and rookie of the year by Students Change Hunger for its food drive. The drive behind all of the Visones’ charitable efforts is the important lessons that they are able to teach the children in their school; that it is just as important to give as it is to receive. Twenty-five years later, and never thinking they would have come so far, Carmine and Phyllis reflect on all they have accomplished with humility and gratitude. Their private school, their published book, and their philanthropy are all a culmination of those twists and turns that led them on this straight path of success. When asked what’s next, it’s easy to see there will be so much more. They have a book signing in May, they are looking at continued growth for the school, taking care of the health and well-being of the family - and who knows, maybe some political possibility. But most of all, they want to continue to spread joy and happiness, doing good for others, and making a difference in the lives of children.
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