CM: Rumson • Fair Haven • Little Silver • Red Bank • Sea Bright • Locust - February 2023

LITTLE HEART, BIG COMMUNITY

Red Banks’ Corinda Bravo & Lenore Smith

Feel Love from Near and Far

Bell Works Tower Lit Pink for 3rd Year in a Row

In 2017, healthy Vienna Carly Savino tragically died just before her third birthday. She fell asleep while watching TV at home in Holmdel, and never woke up. Her death was cat egorized as Sudden Unexplained D eath in Childhood (SUDC), which is essentially SIDS Part 2, but in kids 1 – 18 years old. As a result, Dr. Denise Wunderler, DO, FAOASM, Vienna’s mother, founded 501(c)(3) non-profit Team Vienna 4 SUDC Awareness and co-founded The SUDC Coali tion. She, her family, and Team Vienna work hard to remember Vienna in unique ways, while raising funds for research and educating the world about SUDC, a virtually unknown entity in the medical community.

Well-known Bell Works in Holmdel and the businesses there have been very supportive of Team Vienna and their mission from the start. The iconic 60 foot tower was lit pink, Vienna’s favorite color, on Friday, January 20th, from dusk till dawn. Her actual birthday is January 19, and this was the 3rd consecutive year that the famous structure was lit pink for the inspiring toddler. Visitors were invited to visit OasisVRX inside Bell Works, w here special Vienna roses, books, and “Songs for Vienna” music CDs were given away in honor of Vienna. In addition, V ienna’s big sister sold her homemade jewelry and other items, with proceeds going to Team Vienna.

“ It’s hard to believe we have celebrated six birthdays without her. We m iss Vienna so much. Her absence is felt every single day. Child loss is a devastating journey that continues for life. We will always be a family of 5. We are thankful for all the continuous support and love shown to us by the community and the world,” Vienna’s mom said.

S hockingly, most physicians have never heard of SUDC, as was the case with Vienna’s parents – both physicians. They were familiar with SIDS, which applies to thoroughly investigated unexplained deaths in babies under one year

old. SUDC addresses ages 1 through 18 years old. Even Vienna’s genetic studies (as part of a research study) did not reveal a cause of death. There are no causes and no preventative measures known for SUDC.

O n Saturday, May 20, 2023, Team

Vienna 4 SUDC Awareness will host INDOOR walk at Bell Works, 9am, on the 6 th Annual Vienna’s Day of International SUDC Awareness. Online registration c oming soon!

For more information or to donate, please visit: www.vienna.team.

Dr. Denise Wunderler and Dr. Mike Savino with their children in 2017

Fulfill Appoints Janelle Garcia New Vice President of Community Impact

F ulfill, a leader in alleviating hunger and building food security in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, has named Janelle Garcia as its new Vice President of Community Impact.

I n her new role, Garcia will take the lead on continuing to build a strong pantry network and a collective impact approach via strategic direction of the teams that directly serve Fulfill’s neighbors and network: culinary, garden education, network engagement and resource connections.

Joining Fulfill from the University of Florida where she served as the Associate Director of student health promotion services, Garcia has worked extensively in the community health sector at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital – St. Petersburg, FL (JHACH) providing leadership in health program planning, evaluation, data analytics and grant writing. Garcia was also responsible for opening three high school-based food pantries in Pinellas County, FL and successfully establishing emergency food assistance for JHACH patients while co-creating a food prescription program.

G arcia holds a BS in Biomedical Science from the University of South Florida, a MS in Applied Physiology & Kinesiology –Human Performance from the University of Florida and a PhD in Health and Human Performance – Health Education and Behavior from the University of Florida.

“ I am thrilled about being a part of the Fulfill team,” said Garcia. “I look forward to putting my nonprofit health and wellness programming experience to work for the communities Fulfill serves and utilizing the work I’ve done in food security implementation to make a lasting impact.”

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accept pet photos, local event listings, fundraisers & more! We are always looking for contributing writers. Email us at 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. CommunityMagazineNJ.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF CHERRON ROUNTREE ART DIRECTOR OLIVIA MAZANEC GRAPHIC DESIGNER MICHAEL ALESSI CONTRIBUTORS MEGAN BAKER JOE BROWN CHRIS GRUBE JILLIAN MCCARTHY BRIAN O’MALLEY PHOTOGRAPHER SUSIE SEFCIK ADVERTISING MANAGER DINA LAPETINA PUBLISHER DIRECT DEVELOPMENT

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Brookdale’s Health Sciences Institute Pinned 59 Nurses

Brookdale Community College’s Health Sciences Institute’s Fall Nursing Pinning Ceremony, held on January 3, 2023, recognized the accomplishments of 59 nursing graduates.

Student speaker and nursing graduate Taylor Soave applauded Brookdale faculty and staff “for getting us all to this milestone in our lives.” She continued, “They were there every step of the way to guide us in the right direction and provide encouragement. Brookdale lived up to its expectations by ensuring student success. The faculty and staff truly care about each and every one of their students and want us to be successful in our time here. They helped shape us and taught us core values and how important it is to be passionate.”

P resident Dr. David M. Stout addressed the nursing graduates and t hanked them for making Brookdale proud of their hard work, perseverance, and selflessness in dedicating their lives to helping others.

T he graduating nurses will also participate in Brookdale’s 52nd Commencement ceremonies on May 11, 2023, in addition to the pinning ceremony, a tradition i n the health care field.

“ The pin links you to all the alumni of this program who have gone forward to be among the very best nurses in this country,” said Dr. Jayne Edman, Dean of the Health Science Institute. “The pin is meant to serve as a reminder that you are entering the most trusted profession in the United States.”

I n a world where public health is constantly being challenged, nurses are nothing short of heroic as they continue to be at the front line of patient care.

“ You are an extraordinary group as you began nursing school during a pandemic,” said guest speaker Georgia Cassidy, MSN, RN, Instructor of Nursing at Brookdale. “And you are beginning your professional nursing career at a time when our world needs nurses more than ever.”

Nursing graduate Monica Bubello gave the farewell address, celebrating with her peers the limitless love they can provide in their careers.

“ The people that sit in front of me are not just colleagues and classmates, these people are my friends. Because you just have to be after all that we have been through together. I am so proud of my friends tonight, in our navy-blue scrubs ready to take on the world.”

D uring the ceremony, six of the graduates were recognized for being in the Alpha Delta Nu Nursing Honor Society, Alpha Sigma Chapter: Mirlande Fils-Aimee, S hannon Foley-Vonheeder, Lindsay Kelly, Roxanne Rosa, Megan Seyler, and Alisha Womack.

Special recognition went out to nursing graduate Cherrelle Rainey and her g randmother, who graduated from Brookdale’s first nursing class in 1970 and attended the pinning ceremony to encourage and cheer for her granddaughter.

Cherrelle Rainey

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Monmouth County Reorganization & State of the County

O n Thursday, January 5, Monmouth County Commissioner Thomas A. Arnone and Commissioner Nick DiRocco were appointed as Commissioner Director and Commissioner Deputy Director, respectively, at the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioner’s 2023 Reorganization Meeting.

“ It is truly an honor to be given the opportunity to serve as Commissioner for my fifth term and to be elected by my colleagues to continue in my role as Director,” said Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone. “I am grateful my colleagues have appointed me to continue serving in this role. However, this is a team position and I look forward to serving alongside a great hardworking group of individuals to continue to provide a high quality of life to the residents of Monmouth County.”

D eputy Director DiRocco commented, “It is an honor and a privilege to begin my second term as a member of the Board of Commissioners and I would like to thank the residents of our great County for the opportunity to serve. As we begin a new year, I look forward to working alongside my colleagues to serve our residents in an effective and efficient manner so that we can keep Monmouth County safe, prosperous and beautiful.”

O n January 19th, Commissioner Director Arnone delivered the annual “State of the County” address on behalf of the Board.

“ Throughout 2022, Monmouth County once again provided essential resources and services to our residents through the incredible work done by the Commissioner Board, our Constitutional officers, County Administration and our County workforce,” said Arnone. “As we prepare for the year ahead, I am confident we will continue to succeed and be the best County to live, work, visit, and raise a family in.”

T he State of the County was live-streamed and can be viewed on Monmouth County’s Facebook and YouTube Channel.

For additional information about Monmouth County and the Board of County Commissioners, visit www.visitmonmouth.com.

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Count Basie Center Kicks Off ‘The Giving Year’ With Long Branch Nonprofit

T welve local nonprofits are being recognized during 2023 by Count Basie Center for the Arts and Bank of America as part of an initiative called The Giving Year, which aims to reward organizations for their contributions to the community. Shore House (www.shorehousenj.org), a mental health community resource, was the first among the nonprofits to be recognized. The organization received $1 from e very Count Basie Center ticket sale in January. The organization’s members and volunteers were also gifted tickets.

Founded in 2010, Shore House is a safe place where people who are dealing with mental illness can learn new skills, develop relationships and explore new opportunities.

“As the first and only internationally-accredited Clubhouse in New Jersey, S hore House fills a vital role to a very underserved population,” said Rich Ambrosino, Executive Director, Shore House.

“ We are honored and thankful to be selected by the Count Basie Center and Bank of America for this support through

COUNT

The Giving Year campaign,” said Peder Hagberg, President, Shore House Board of Trustees.

“ Mental health is a top priority at Bank of America, and it is important that we continue to support and expand mental health initiatives in New Jersey,” said Alberto Garofalo, President, Bank of America New Jersey.

“ The everyday work at Shore House exemplifies the types of organizations The Giving Year is looking to award, platform and highlight,” said Jeremy Grunin, C hairperson, Count Basie Center for the Arts Board of Trustees.

THE EXPRESS: THE ERNIE DAVIS STORY (2008) Sunday, February 12

PHOENIX PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS:

Showtime 8pm

Sunday, February 19 • Doors 2pm, Showtime 3pm

MAP-MARKER-ALT Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre • Basie Center Campus

THE WIZ (1978)

Sunday, February 19 • 1:45pm

MAP-MARKER-ALT Basie Center Cinemas

PADDINGTON GETS IN A JAM

Monday, February 20 • Doors 1:30pm, Showtime 2:30pm

MAP-MARKER-ALT Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre • Basie Center Campus

MAYSA LEAK

“Part of our responsibility as a nonprofit organization is to look inwards and say, ‘What more can we do?’” said Adam Philipson, President and CEO, Count Basie Center for the Arts. “Because we have this status as a place where worldclass musicians, actors and performers come to play, we also have this opportunity – and responsibility – to lend our visibility to others.”

O rganizations interested in qualifying for The Giving Year are encouraged to v isit www.thebasie.org/thegivingyear for more information.

EVENTS

Saturday, February 25 • 8pm MAP-MARKER-ALT The Vogel • Basie Center Campus

GREEN BOOK (2018)

Sunday, February 26 • 4:30pm

MAP-MARKER-ALT Basie Center Cinemas

TROMBONE SHORTY & ORLEANS AVENUE

Wednesday, March 1 • 8pm

MAP-MARKER-ALT Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre • Basie Center Campus

THE KINGDOM CHOIR (W/ THE COUNT BASIE CENTER GOSPEL CHOIR)

Sunday, March 12 • 6pm

MAP-MARKER-ALT The Vogel • Basie Center Campus

Construction of Road Improvements Along CR 12A in Middletown Begin

T he Monmouth County Department of Public Works & Engineering is beginning construction on roadway improvements along County Route 12A (Navesink River Road), including the installation of a new pedestrian path along the northern side fronting on Huber Woods Park.

“ The construction of the roadway improvements will occur in three stages to avoid unnecessary delays and disruptions to the area,” said Commissioner Director Thomas A. A rnone, liaison to the Public Works & Engineering Department. “We appreciate residents’ and visitors’ patience as this project begins and remind all vehicular traffic to follow the arranged detours.”

Navesink River Road is scheduled to be closed and detoured during two stages for approximately two weeks each. A fter the first full closure period, the road will be reopened to traffic in both directions but will likely require alternating lanes of traffic during working hours. Work should continue in that fashion until it will be ready for the second two-week full closure stage which should occur around April 2023. The entire project is scheduled to be completed by the end of May 2023.

Celebrate American Heart Month: Join the #OurHearts Movement

February is American Heart Month! Heart disease is a leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. Most middle-aged and young adults have one or more risk factors for heart disease, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or being a smoker or overweight. Having multiple risk factors increases your risk for heart disease.

D id you know that people who have close relationships at home, work, or in their community tend to be healthier and live longer? One reason, according to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), is that we’re more successful at meeting our health goals when we work on them with others. NHLBI launched the #OurHearts movement to inspire us to protect and strengthen our hearts with the support of others.

W hy is connecting good for your heart? Feeling connected with others and having positive, close relationships benefit our overall health, including our blood pressure and weight. Having people in our lives who motivate and care for us helps, as do feelings of closeness and companionship.

Follow these heart-healthy lifestyle tips to protect your heart. It will be easier and more successful if you work on them with others, including by texting or phone calls if needed.

• B e more physically active.

• M aintain a healthy weight.

• E at a nutritious diet.

• Q uit smoking.

• R educe stress.

• G et 7-8 hours of quality sleep.

• T rack your heart health stats.

You don’t have to make big changes all at once. Small steps will get you where you want to go.

V isit #OurHearts for inspiration on what others around the country are doing together for their heart health. Then join the #OurHearts movement and let NHLBI know what you’re doing to have a healthy heart. Tag #OurHearts to share how you and your family and friends are being heart healthy.

LITTLE HEART, BIG COMMUNITY

The month of February has been observed as American Heart Month since 1963, when President Lyndon Johnson first declared its observance as a way of bringing awareness to heart health and heart and blood vessel diseases. For Monmouth County resident Corinda Bravo and her daughter Lenore, February holds a more personal significance. February 2nd marks Lenore’s (who goes by Lenny) “heart-iversary”, the yearly commemoration of her first open heart surgery when she was a three week old infant.

PHOTOS SUSIE SEFCIK

Corinda was first made aware that there was an issue with Lenny’s heart at her 21-week prenatal check-up. Lenny had not even had the chance to take her first breath when doctors informed Corinda and her husband Matt Smith that Lenny had a congenital heart defect (CHD). Pediatric cardiologist Dr. Loyda Rivera diagnosed Lenny with Tetralogy of Fallot, a congenital heart defect involving four major complications: a l arge ventricular septal defect (or hole) in the wall between the two chambers of the heart; pulmonary stenosis : a narrowing of the pulmonary valve and main pulmonary artery; an overriding aorta ; and ventricular hypertrophy : t he muscular wall of the right ventricle is thicker than normal. All of this meant that Lenny’s cardiovascular system had to work harder than normal to provide sufficient oxygen to her heart.

T he Bravo-Smith Family’s world transformed in that instant. Corinda was instructed to transfer her care to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), where doctors specializing in pediatric cardiology would be able to give Lenny the best possible treatment options.

T he remainder of Corinda’s pregnancy was a challenging one. When t he moment came for Corinda to deliver Lenny, it was an emergency situation, the possibility of which had been planned for by the medical team. Lenny was born via an emergency c-section at Jersey Shore University Hospital, where Lenny was then flown by medivac to CHOP. Corinda was in recovery at Jersey Shore while Lenny was safe in the NICU in Philadelphia.

L enny had her first surgery at three and a half weeks old, an operation to repair the hole in her heart and widen her pulmonary artery. This would allow more oxygenated blood to reach her heart. Over the next three years she would have two additional procedures to insert and

adjust stents into Lenny’s blood vessels to ensure her heart functioned properly.

T he surgeries were successful and Lenny’s heart has been patched and repaired. She is a normal, active, eight year old child who participates in ballet, soccer, and even dabbles in recreational tee-ball. She enjoys spending time with

her older brother Liam, who Corinda describes as a “compassionate, nurturing, a nd empathetic” older sibling to Lenny. Lenny has faint scarring and a bump on her chest, reminders of the treatment that saved her life. When other kids ask about her scars, Lenny confidently informs them that she has a “special heart”.

CORINDA AND HER DAUGHTER LENNY

She will continue to need surgical intervention throughout her life, including a procedure during her teenage years to replace one of Lenny’s heart valves with an artificial one, which will then need be replaced every five to seven years.

C ritical breakthroughs in technology and treatment are occurring on a regular basis – including a just announced artificial valve that “grows” along with the p atient – and these medical advances give Corinda cause for hope. She is quick to say, “the science is astounding!” But the most critical message that she wants

to impart this American Heart Month is the need for awareness, fundraising, and continued research. One in every hundred children will be born with congenital heart defect, that is nearly 40,000 c hildren per year. At the time of this article’s writing, most newborns are not screened for a CHD unless they are high risk, display symptoms, or have a family history of CHD. Fetal echocardiogram scanning remains the best way to identify a CHD during pregnancy, allowing for a t reatment plan and immediate care as soon as the child is delivered. The cost

of providing an echocardiogram means that hospitals tend to offer them only when there is a direct need, but for Corinda and other heart moms like her they are an obvious and crucial tool to ensuring early intervention for children like Lenny who are living with a CHD.

THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY

As the parent of a child living with CHD, Corinda found herself in need of a community. She found that support c oming from two places. First, after researching online, Corinda became connected with Philly Heart Moms , an online community of parents of children with a CHD. Here Corinda was able to learn more about CHD treatments, practitioners, and the latest research, but perhaps more importantly she was able to share her e xperience with other moms who were walking the same path. An emotional rollercoaster to be sure, there have b een moments of great sadness – such as when a child of a Heart Mom loses their battle with CHD, and also moments of great joy – for example when a new treatment is developed or a child receives a necessary heart transplant. Corinda remains a ctive in the Philly Heart Moms group and says she will be forever grateful for the support they have provided her.

The Bravo-Smith family were also supported by their hometown friends and neighbors. “The Red Bank community really stepped up for our family,” Corinda shared. “I almost felt like I was living i n a movie the way our neighbors banded together to attend CHD walks, organize

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CORINDA BRAVO

fundraisers, and help provide for my children.” This was particularly true in 2019, when Corinda’s husband Matt was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. Matt passed away from his illness later that year. Members of the Red Bank community stopped by regularly with food for the family and teachers at Liam a nd Lenny’s school ensured that they had the extra help they needed to stay on track with their education.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR THE BRAVO-SMITHS

At this time there is no cure for CHD, only treatment and therapeutic options. Like other heart moms and dads, Corinda recognizes that this is going to be a lifelong commitment. Her little heart warrior Lenny is her joy a nd her inspiration on this journey. “The word I’d use to describe Lenny is feisty,” Corinda says. “This is the word that the doctors and NICU nurses used to describe her in the hospital. They told me it took three full-grown doctors to place baby Lenny in the NICU incubator because she was grasping so securely on the sides. She’s a fighter.”

C orinda has returned to her first professional passion – teaching theater. Corinda felt inspired to follow her vocation in the way that made the most sense for her family. She realized that she wanted to set an example for her children, to have them see her living her best self and doing the things that she is passionate about.

T his passion seems to have passed on to her son Liam, now 16. Though he originally denied having an interest in acting, Liam just finished performing in the Two River Theater’s rendition of “Romeo and Juliet”. Liam p ortrayed the leading role of Romeo.

A s for Lenny, her mother has recently encouraged her to attend a local summer camp for children and adolescents living with a CHD. Lenny is carefully discerning that while in the meantime enjoying her friends, her family, a nd her afterschool activities. When asked what she wants to be when she grows up, Lenny responds, “a veterinarian”, which makes her mother very happy. “We are seeing the first generation of CHD heart warriors live into their twenties and thirties,” Corinda relays with hope. With continued research and advances in screening, there’s no reason to think that people w ith a CHD won’t experience normal lifespans in the years ahead.

For more information about Congenital Heart Defects, you can visit the American Heart Association (www.heart.org) or the nonprofit Mended Little Hearts (www.mendedhearts.org).

HOW THE COMMUNITY CAN HELP

Corinda is frequently approached by people wanting to know what they can do to help. Awareness remains an important first step. This can be accomplished by organizing and attending CHD walks and by using social media channels to share accurate information about CHD. Early screening is the best way to diagnose CHD early-on and enables parents to develop a treatment plan with a pediatric cardiologist. Parents who are expecting a child should ask their doctor about receiving an echocardiogram and also inquire about screening a newborn child before being discharged from the hospital. Advocates can lobby school districts and other public entities to increase the number of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in schools and public buildings. These machines are incredibly important for assisting those with CHD who experience sudden cardiac arrest. Heart transplants are frequently required to treat CHD, so community members can do a tremendous amount of good by registering to be an organ donor.

But one of the most fundamental things that supporters can do involves the “F-word”: fundraising. Money is needed to advance the research into new procedures, medical devices, and improved screening methods. Corinda recommends donating to trusted organizations like “Mended Little Hearts” or contributing directly to hospitals with cutting edge pediatric cardiology departments like Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Boston Children's Hospital, Texas Children's Hospital, or Stanford Medicine Children's Health Center. Corinda points out that most of the money going towards heart related health is directed towards adult cardiological issues. Earmarking some of those funds towards pediatric cardiology research and development will go a long way in improving the lives of children with a CHD.

Chair man ’s Club

P re sident' s Club

Kim Hale

Marie Bagarozza

Janice Troiano

Denise Ripnick

Richard Shirvanian

Gerine A. Skamarak

Mary-Jo Hart

Adrienne Marcigliano

Judith Taipina

Acacia Fenter-Watts

Roy Eisen

Ted Ihde

Carmen Petruzzelli-McCann Brown

Marialis Monchek

Marcia Lentini

Ryan Paliukaitis

Amy Lem

Marissa Montagna

Myint "Lisa" Albero Shakida Faniel

Paul Pipitone

Erik Shirvanian

Rosa Mita Lakhani

Umbelina Tavares

Caroline Rauseo

Vivian McKay

Lori Lustica

Patrica Grace Alexandra Colella

Linda Harris

Eugene Brown

Sergio Cacoilo

Luciana Dias Lourenco

Mary Anne Dorsey

Stephanie Cascio

Jennifer Vyas

MLK Celebration in Red Bank

O n Monday, January 16, Pilgrim Baptist Church of Red Bank hosted the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr Commemorative Celebration. This year’s event featured the Red Bank Regional High School Choir, the Red Bank Charter School 2nd & 3rd Grade Choir, the Long Branch High School Air Force Jr. ROTC, video presentations and special greetings from local political & community leaders. Rabbi Doug Sagal of Congregation B’Nai Israel of Rumson inspired the capacity crowd and hundreds tuning in through the live

streaming platform with a stirring message of hope and faith. Following the service, Pilgrim provided a meal for all those in attendance. Community partners also distributed materials and resource information related to services available to the community. Proceeds from the event will be donated to the Hope & Comfort Center of Red Bank. For further information about the event or to learn more about the Hope & Comfort Center, please call: 848-260-9076.

Rumson Garden Club Offers Scholarship

R umson Garden Club, a member of the Garden Club of America, announced that they will offer a new scholarship in memory of Catherine B. Gonska, a committed gardener and environmentalist. This scholarship will be presented to a Two River area student who plans to attend an accredited college and has a demonstrated interest in any area of horticulture, landscape design or environmental studies, i.e., conservation, marine science or earth science.

T he applicant is required to fill out an application which

can be found at www.rumsongardenclubnj.org outlining his or her interests and accomplishments, which should include academic studies and extracurricular activities. Applications can be mailed to Rumson Garden Club, Attn: Scholarship Chairman, P.O. Box 121, Rumson, NJ 07760 or emailed to Susan Olson at rumsongardenclubnj@gmail.com. The deadline for applications is April 7, 2023.

M ore information about Rumson Garden Club can be found at www.rumsongardenclubnj.org.

(Photos by: Millie Jeter)

C atherine B. Gonska Memorial Scholarship Supports Local College-Bound High Schooler Who Will Study Horticulture, Landscape Design or Earth Studies

LASTS A LIFETIME

The lessons RCDS students learn from Nursery to Grade 8 stick with them for a lifetime. We teach practical skills alongside critical content, so students learn how to innovate, problem solve, and communicate effectively. Our school days extend far beyond the classroom with engaging co-curricular and extracurricular activities that boost confidence, teamwork, and leadership. The Four Pillars — Kind, Honest, Responsible and Respectful — are principles RCDS graduates carry into high school, college, and beyond. Discover how Truly Great N-8 education at RCDS can set your child up for a lifetime of learning.

NJHS Speaker and Therapy Dogs at Forestdale School

Forestdale School’s chapter of the National Junior Honor Society was so happy to welcome Jo-Ann Moyer, the Humane Education Specialist for the Monmouth County SPCA. She presented the NJHS students with information about the different services provided by the animal shelter for both domesticated and wild animals. She gave the students a background on the difference between working animals, service animals, and therapy animals. They were also joined by four therapy dogs with their partner humans, and the students were able to interact with the animals and learn about their backgrounds and service.

T his interactive experience was wonderful for all involved, and was a wonderful way to end their NJHS fall/ winter service project to benefit the Monmouth County SPCA.  The students and the Forestdale community gathered an immense amount of linens and materials for donation to the Monmouth County SPCA. Thank you to all who donated!

T. Thomas Fortune Cultural Center Celebrates Black History Month

R ed Bank’s T. Thomas Fortune Cultural Center is celebrating Black History Month with a lineup of events woven together by the theme An Out of Africa Experience.

T he celebration will begin on Sunday, February 12 with a screening of Cry Freedom , a 1987 film that tells the true story of South African freedom fighter Steven Biko, who took a courageous stand against his country’s racist apartheid government. Admission is $20 and light refreshments will be served.

O n Sunday, February 19, the Center’s On a Sunday Afternoon fundraiser will take place at Triumph Brewing Company in Red Bank. This event will feature jazz and a wine tasting. Pianist Brandon McCune has accompanied jazz greats including trumpeter Wynton Marsalis and vocalist Betty Carter. His Trio’s performance will be paired with a journey through some of South Africa’s Black-owned vineyards led by M.J. Towler, host of the popular podcast Black Wine Guy Experience. Tickets are $100.

O n Thursday, February 23, Brookdale Community College in Lincroft will be the setting for the free event She Found Her Voice & Changed the World , featuring the Center’s Executive Director Caroline Hunter-Williams in conversation with award-winning journalist and Brookdale history professor Gilda Rogers. Ms. Hunter-Williams will discuss how, as a young chemist employed by Polaroid in the 1970s, she used her voice to start the movement of financial divestment in South Africa, setting off a chain of events that eventually toppled apartheid and led to the rise of President Nelson Mandela.

T he celebration will return to the Center on Saturday, February 25, with African Tapestry: Fashions by Rashidah This fashion show will showcase vibrant colors in a spectrum of patterns, prints, and styles. Admission is $20 and light refreshments will be served.

For more information regarding these events, please visit www.tthomasfortuneculturalcenter.org.

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Call For Entries Into The Monmouth County Park System’s Juried Creative Arts Festival

Calling all artists and fine crafters! The Monmouth County Park System is seeking entries into its Creative Arts Festival. This juried art show a nd sale is open to artists and fine crafters of every medium. Those interested in entering are invited to submit images for consideration. The application fee is $15 per person. Rules and entry form are available at www.MonmouthCountyParks.com. Accepted artists will have a 10’x10’ booth space to d isplay and sell their original work for a fee. Indoor and outdoor spaces are available. The entry deadline is Monday, March 10.

T he Creative Arts Festival will be held from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday, May 13 at Thompson Park, Lincroft. The festival will feature fine art and craft 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 Festival, call 732-842-4000, ext. 3343. For persons with hearing impairment, the Park System TTY/TDD number is 711. The Monmouth County Park System, created in 1960 by the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners, is Monmouth County’s Open Space, Parks, and Recreation agency.

The Creative Arts Festival will feature specially selected artists’ works of pottery, photography, jewelry, paintings and more.

Megan’s Mindful Minute . . .

Too often when we are busy caring for our families, getting work responsibilities complete, or engaging in philanthropic endeavors, we put our needs on the back burner. But the reality is, we are no good to anyone when emotionally strained. Self-care is not a luxury, it is a necessity.

Making self-love a priority does not have to soak up days or hours. It can be as simple as indulging in a delicious smelling candle, buying yourself flowers, or listening to your favorite song from senior year of high school. Anything that is done simply for your own pleasure. So take some time this week to love yourself, in your own unique way.

MAIN AREAS OF SELF-LOVE:

♥ physical

♥ spiritual

♥ emotional

♥ mental

Stay safe, have fun, and love each other.

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

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

SELF-LOVE, SELF-HELP, SELF-CARE, WHATEVER YOU LIKE TO CALL IT, YOU NEED IT! WE ALL DO!

Wondrous Winter Walk at Thompson Park

February 1, 10 a.m.

Toss on your winter gear and tag along with a Park System Naturalist as you explore Thompson Park, Lincroft, in the wintertime. Meet in the Old Orchard parking lot. Open to all ages; under 18 with adult. Please Note: Sturdy footwear recommended, trails used may have inclines or tree roots to step over. FREE!

24th Annual Deep Cut Orchid Society Show

February 3-5, Fri-Sat 9 a.m. - 6p.m.and Sun 9 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.

Dearborn Market, 2170 Route 35 South, Holmdel

Cutting, Splitting and Hewing at Historic Longstreet Farm

February 5, 12-2:30 p.m.

44 Longstreet Road, Holmdel

Come out to Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel, and get warmed up using a two-man saw and splitting wedge; learn how farmers used a froe to rive shingles or a broad ax to hew beams. Open to adults. FREE!

Valentine's Day Pop-Up Market

February 8, 11-4 p.m. and February 11, 1-5p.m.

Bell Works 101 Crawfords Corner Rd, Holmdel

Looking for the perfect Valentine's Day gift for that special someone in your life? Visit the Valentine's Day Pop-Up Makers Market Series, where you'll find a wide selection of handmade, one-of-a-kind gifts created by local artisans. With over 75 vendors - from jewelry and pottery to candles and artisanal food items, there's something for everyone.

Bluegrass & Oldtime Music

February 19, 12- 5 p.m.

Embury United Methodist Church, 49 Church St., Little Silver

The Bluegrass & Oldtime Music Association of New Jersey presents a Stage Show and Jam at Embury United Methodist Church every third Sunday of the month from September through May. Light refreshments are available. Admission is $5 for BOTMA members and $6 for non-members. www.njbluegrass.org

Monmouth County Parks Backyard Bird Count - Huber Woods Park

February 19, 9-10 a.m.

25 Browns Dock Rd, Locust

Join a Park System Naturalist to explore Huber Woods Park, Middletown, in celebration of the Great American Backyard Bird Count. Meet at the Environmental Center to see what winter birds are at local feeders and take a small walk. A limited number of binoculars will be available to borrow, if needed. FREE!

We reach the most influential homes and businesses in Monmouth County with in-depth articles, the latest news, and insight into the people and places that make our towns special.

La Famiglia

BY CARMINE VISONE

On Sundays you didn’t ask if you were going to church; you got ready and went. I couldn’t even give an excuse, or complain that it was snowing or raining too hard, because I lived right next door to the church. I could actually hear the organ music in my bedroom. It was a time when everyone treated each other like Family. We went outside to play, we got dirty, we bought chips and candy from the corner store. We played Red Light/Green Light, Kick the Can, Simon Says, Hide and Seek, Dodge Ball, Red Rover, Baseball, Stickball, Softball, and Football. I even played handball, and skully with the nuns who were my neighbors and friends… and who beat me at those games every single time. We could ride our bikes to the store, or the park, and stay all day.

We ate beans and hot dogs, mac and cheese, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, and my mom made pasta almost every night even though she would say pasta fagioli, lentils and pasta, or soup with noodles wasn’t really pasta. The real pasta was on Sundays,

and Fridays was always pizza or fried fish. We walked or rode a bike everywhere, and never worried about safety. We never thought to lock our windows or doors at night. We had chores to do around the house, we helped clean off the table after a meal, and ate our meals as a family at a table together. Every single Sunday I ate with my grandparents, and all my aunts, uncles, and cousins, which was a tradition that we even follow now today. We weren’t AFRAID OF ANYTHING except our parents. If you fell down you would just get back up. We shared immense love for our entire family. Aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents were all one. We always shared love, laughter, and our faith. On Christmas Eve my grandfather would make us all stay awake to midnight, not to hear Santa’s bells, but to have every single person kiss baby Jesus as he slowly placed him in the beautiful manger that sat on the mantle in the living room every year. We respected our parents, our teachers (and especially our neighbors who we called by their proper names,

and who acted as our guardians in our parents absence), the American flag, the principal, AND God. We said the Pledge of Allegiance every time we went to school. We left our houses as soon as we could in the morning and right after school till our neighbors would yell out for their children as a reminder to get in the house for the night. If one kid was called for dinner then we all knew to go home. We watched our mouths around our elders because we knew if we DISRESPECTED any adult there would be a price to pay. We had manners and respect; otherwise someone else’s parents put you in your place. I would not trade anything for the childhood we had for we had enough, and we had love, and all that made us the adults we are today.

It’s these traditions and values that we carry forward in our lives today. It is these traditions and family values that we bring to our children, our grandchildren, and hopefully our great grandchildren. As a family together we use no cell phones, no texting, no computer games. We talk, we laugh, and every Sunday after church we sit for dinner, and share our lives. This is our definition of family. This is our most precious gift.

I grew up in a town in New York called Brooklyn, bearing the name of Carmine Salvatore Visone.

Private Academy Offers High Quality Early Childhood Education for Over 30 Years

Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Elementary Schools, Home Away From Home Academy has been paving the way in excellence for early childhood education for more than 30 years. Home Away From Home Academy, located on the border of Holmdel and Aberdeen on Route 34, has been receiving outstanding recognition from its parents and families over the last 30 years. Public schools in the surrounding communities are commending the Academy on the outstanding programs the school is offering children from infancy

through elementary grades. Home Away From Home Academy, as leaders in early childhood education, was established to promote the growth of children during their earliest years. These are the most formative years of his/her social, intellectual, and physical development. Children who are leaving HAFHA to continue their educational process in the public school sector are achieving outstanding performance evaluations in each of their classes, and many are moving into the gifted programs offered by the public school systems.

Early Childhood Published Philosophy Hits Nail on the Head

Carmine and Phyllis Visone, owners of Home Away From Home Academy, hold a deeply rooted belief that, given the right tools, balanced with the right kind of play and guidance and then delivered during the right stages of development – children would grow into adults who were not only smart academically, but smart in a life sense – children who would grow up to lead productive, abundant lives. With practice and research based theory, the school produces academic success for all students which developmentally prepares them for higher learning, at a younger age. “The Visone Method: A New

Philosophy in Early Childhood Education” fosters an active love of learning by providing experiences that enable all students to achieve a strong foundation during early childhood. It treats every day as a celebration of life and learning, because what a growing child learns today will be with them for a lifetime. The Visone Method is a behaviorist philosophy that builds self-esteem while considering the whole child. It balances music, drama, and motor skill activities with high-level academic learning in a fun environment.

Over the last several years, Home Away From Home Academy has received many accolades including Township Proclamations, a NJ State Senate Resolution, and an award for their collection of over 800 pounds of food for Fulfill: Students Change Hunger. Additionally, owners Carmine and Phyllis Visone were the recipients of the Humanitarian of the Year award in recognition of the school’s generous donation of toys to Hope for Children Foundation. The school focuses on many charitable efforts as part of their instruction to the children that it is just as important to give as it is to receive.

For more information on Home Away From Home Academy, please visit www.hafha.com or call 732.290.0033.

Summer Camp Plant Sale

Children learn the judicial system through play

Phyllis and Carmine and their grandchildren

Authors of The Visone Method attend book signing

Innovative Pilot Program for Young Adults with Intellectual Disabilities

Brookdale Community College, ARC of Monmouth County, and Voyagers’ Community School are proud to announce a free, innovative, pre-vocational program that offers adult students, ages 18 to 24, with intellectual disabilities a robust and well-balanced classroom learning experience in life, consumer and employment skills, self-advocacy, healthy habits, financial literacy, and the innovative use of technology. This grant award was funded through the Office of the Secretary of High Education through the County College-based Center for Adult Transition Program.

T his program, TAZ (The Achievement Zone) Plus, began in January 2023, and will prepare students to pursue their goals, clarify their plans, and take the next step as adults. Program offerings will focus on career readiness and job coaching through mini-lessons and group projects targeting

various job skills. Each student will consider the milestones to fruitful employment.

If interested as a potential participant or a professional representing a potential participant in the TAZ Plus program, do not hesitate to reach out by emailing nkane@brookdalecc.edu.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County Marks 85th Anniversary With “85 Acts Of Kindness,” Other Events Throughout 2023

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County (BGCM) is celebrating its 85th anniversary y ear, and to commemorate its founding the organization has several events planned throughout the year focused on service and community.

I n the spring of 1938, Isaiah Matlack, chairman of the Asbury Park Kiwanis Club’s boys and girls program committee recommended to the board of directors that they explore the possibility of e stablishing a “Boys Club” in Asbury Park. Originally located on Main Street, the Club opened its current Monroe Avenue location in July of 1952. In the 85 y ears since its founding, BGCM has become the county’s most trusted youth d evelopment organization, serving more than 1000 children and teens annually at four sites across Monmouth County.

“ While the needs of our community have changed over the last 85 years, our commitment to our young people has not,” says Douglas Eagles, Chief Exec -

utive Officer of BGCM. “Kids need the s tability and security of the Club now more than at any other time in their lives, and we are doing whatever it takes to meet this need.” Adds Ollie Jones, who grew up in the Asbury Park Boys Club and has served on its board of directors for over 40 years: “Being a member of the Club is the best experience for s o many of our young people, including my own children. May our Club continue to be ever upward and ever onward!”

T he Club is open every weekday during the critical after-school hours in Asbury Park, Red Bank, Neptune, and Long Branch, providing life-skills classes, mentorship, social-emotional learning, nutritious meals, college and career p rep, and more. It also offers an 8-week full-day summer camp.

T he Club unveiled its special anniversary logo earlier this month, created b y Corinne Karl Design in Shrewsbury, and will be commemorating the 85 years of service in several ways throughout the

year. “85 Acts of Kindness” is an initiative where Club staff, teens, and board m embers will engage in 85 acts that give back to the community to express appreciation for the people they serve. The C lub will also be launching the “Give Back 85” volunteer campaign this spring, encouraging community members to give “85” to the Club—minutes a week or hours a year.

31st Annual Spinnaker Award Honorees

T he Eastern Monmouth Area Chamber of Commerce (EMACC) is proud to announce the honorees for the Annual Spinnaker Awards 2023. Now in its thirty-first year, the Spinnaker Awards honors those businesses and individuals who give of themselves to make life better for everyone in eastern Monmouth County. . “The Spinnaker Awards Dinner is our Chamber’s largest event of the year. It is the one night we honor the achievements of people and organizations that make Eastern Monmouth County such a special place to live and to do business,” commented Jane Tresnan of Tresnan Properties. “I always look forward to seeing business leaders from our area and celebrating with this year’s recipients.” Spinnaker is scheduled for March 22, 2023 and will be held at the Park Loft, Fort Monmouth, Oceanport, NJ. To learn more, call the Chamber at 732-741-0055 or visit www.emacc.org.

Volunteer of the Year

Claire Knopf

Above and beyond service and dedication by an individual who provides exemplary service to the community.

Arts & Culture Award

Lakehouse Music Academy Red Bank

In recognition of those individuals and organizations who support and cultivate an appreciation of Arts in the community.

Public Service Award

Senator Vin Gopal

To honor an individual who is a source of pride to the citizens he/she serves and is consistent with the high principles of the chamber for all who hold a public charge.

Community Service Award

Jersey Shore Financial Advisors

For a business with less than 50 employees which has shown a dedication to the good of the eastern Monmouth community by leadership and spirit in support of our quality of life.

Corporate Good Neighbor

New Jersey American Water Company

For a business with 50 or more employees. Beginning with the CEO, a business whose culture motivates employees to be personally involved as good Samaritans to people in need making eastern Monmouth a better place to live.

Non-Profit Organization of the Year

Tigger Stavola Foundation

To honor an organization that provides quality and consistent programs and services to the community.

Serving Monmouth County for Over 50 Years

Liberty Insurance Services

Celebrating a Business that has found the key to success in remaining a solid business for over 50 years.

EMACC’S Next Generation Leader

Courtney Alessi

An active member of EMACC who recognizes the benefits of chamber membership and involvement in starting and growing a professional career.

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