CM: Rumson • Fair Haven • Little Silver • Red Bank • Locust • Sea Bright - March 2022 by Community Magazine NJ

Full STEAM Ahead Leigh Dym & Monmouth County Teens Helping Children Reach their Full Potential through Local Non-profit, STEAMpark M A RC H 202 2 RUMSON • FAIR HAVEN • LITTLE SILVER RED BANK • SEA BRIGHT • LOCUST • MIDDLETOWN PHOTO: C A R M EL A C A R AC A PPA

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Five Local Nonprofits Join Forces to Empower At-Risk Youth

Commissioner Director Tom Arnone; Dawn Doherty Executive Director, STPS; Sr. Debbie Drago, Executive Director, CYS; Russell Gartz, Director of External Relations, CYS; Assemblywoman Vicky Flynn, and Assemblyman Gerry Scharfenberger

For the past few years, Collier Youth Services (CYS), Family & Children’s Service (FCS), Hope for Children Foundation (HCF), Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide (STPS), and the YMCA of Greater Monmouth County have partnered together for the Annual Hearts of Hope Breakfast—an event that exponentially boosts the hope and inspirations of local youth with behavioral and mental health issues. With more than 360 years of combined experience working with local at-risk youth, each of these five organizations has deep roots within its community as well as an affinity for providing progressive and impactful services—services that are more in need now than ever before as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID has impacted all of us in numerous ways, but one of the most detrimental repercussions has been the uptick of behavioral and mental health issues in our youth as a result of remote learning and social distancing. Each of the five organizations has had to ramp up its services to ensure that our youths’ needs were being met. The 2022 Hearts of Hope Breakfast was held on February 15 at Brookdale Community College and recognized OceanFirst Bank for its support and dedication to organizations who work with local youth with behavioral and mental health issues. “On behalf of my colleagues at OceanFirst, I want to thank you for putting together such an inspiring and informative event this morning!” said Katherine Durante, Executive Director, OceanFirst Foundation. “Please know how much I, and our team at OceanFirst, appreciate the work you do each and every day to support our neighbors. Being recognized for something we love to do simply adds more joy to what we experience in giving.” “We are thrilled with the continued growth of the Hearts of Hope Breakfast over the last five years,” said Russell Gartz, Director of External Relations, Collier Youth Services. “The unity of purpose in treating mental health issues in our community, along with partnership of action between our partners, is new model that more non-profits should follow. We are so grateful for Ocean First Bank and Susan Tellone for making this event the best yet.” This year’s event also featured Mission Speaker, Susan Tellone, RN, BSN, CSN, MSN, Clinical Director of the Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide. “It was nice to see everyone doing what we all love to do - helping others by raising funds and creating awareness,” said Karen Hinds, Treasurer, Hope for Children Foundation. “I took a lot from Susan Tellone’s speech, she had valuable pointers for my own children as well as understanding what the epidemic has done to our youth. As

Featured Mission Speaker at 2022 Hearts of Hope Breakfast, Susan Tellone, RN, BSN, CSN, MSN, Clinical Director of the Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide.

Treasurer of Hope for Children Foundation, NJ – I have countless requests for assistance due to parents taking time off from work to be there for their children who are suffering from mental health issues related to home schooling, and lack of socialization. This pandemic has caused a huge concern for our children and coming together to tackle it is so important.”

The OceanFirst team and honorees at the annual Hearts of Hope Breakfast held on February 15 at Brookdale Community College.

Dawn Doherty, Executive Director, STPS; Sr. Debbie Drago, Executive Director, CYS; Leann Wagner, Executive Director, YMCA of Greater Monmouth; Kathy Durante, Executive Director, OceanFirst Foundation; Louis A. Schwarcz, Executive Director, FCS; Eric Hinds, President and Co-Founder, HFCF, NJ

Photo Credit: Tom Zapcic Photography

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It’s a Classic Comeback Red Bank 5K Charity Run/Walk Returns After 2-Year Pandemic Pause to Support Youth Development Programs for Borough Children

Photo Credit: John Vitollo

COVID-19 may have sidelined the Red Bank Classic 5K for two years, but the charity event is charging back to downtown Red Bank on Saturday, June 18, 2022, with community fanfare and support for local kids impacted by the pandemic. Runners and walkers of all ages and abilities are invited back for the 3.1-mile trek through Red Bank, and area residents are encouraged to cheer them on and gather afterward for a festive block party on Monmouth Street, in the heart of the downtown. “We are delighted to bring the community together again for a family-friendly day of good health, fun activities, and music in downtown Red Bank,” said Angela Courtney, one of the founders of the charity race and owner of Sweetest Sin Boutique on White Street. “We’re also proud to support the good work of our charity partner, the YMCA, which provides a variety of youth development programs to help Red Bank children rebound from the pandemic,” Courtney said. Hosted by the Red Bank Business Alliance and Red Bank RiverCenter, the event raised more than $40,000 in its first two years to benefit programs that nurture the development and well-being of borough youth and teens. “The Red Bank Family YMCA is grateful for the financial support from the Red Bank Classic 5K, especially during these challenging times,” said Laurie Goganzer, President and Chief Executive Officer of the YMCA of Greater Monmouth County, which serves hundreds of Red Bank families. “This year, the 5K donation will fund social-emotional programs to help local children recover from the stresses of the pandemic, as well as underwrite free swim lessons for Red Bank third graders at the Red Bank Y.” Glenn Carter, Executive Director of Red Bank RiverCenter, said area businesses and organizations can help support the community event and its charitable cause by purchasing a sponsorship. Carter said cash and in-kind donations are also welcomed. “The Red Bank Classic 5K is for everyone,” said Carter. “It’s a unique community event that showcases our beautiful downtown and exemplifies our town’s giving spirit and commitment to healthy living.” Race organizers are anticipating an enthusiastic return to the 5K, sanctioned by USA Track & Field (USATF), which also certified the challenging course that will begin and end on Broad Street. It will count as a USATF 2022 NJ Open Women’s Championship Race. The run/walk will begin at 8:30 a.m., following a group warm-up.

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Strollers and leashed dogs are welcomed. The fee is $40 ($45 after June 1) and includes a t-shirt, medal, chip-timed results, and refreshments. The first 1,000 runners and walkers to register and pick up their bib will receive a swag bag. Cash prizes of $300, $200, and $100 will be awarded respectively to the top three female and top three male finishers. If either the top female or male finisher breaks the course record, they will receive an additional $200 award, sponsored by Split Second Racing. The course records are: Female, 18.38.1; and Male, 16.44.1. Awards will be presented to the top three finishers, 14 and under, and in 5-year age groups starting at 15-19. Awards will also be presented to the top three teams and top four finishers on each team. Race participants are welcome to form teams with a minimum of four runners. Running teams will be scored based on the average of the top four runners on each team. Following the 5K will be the Kids Broad Street Dash, open to children up to 12 years old. The kids run is $20 ($25 after June 1) and includes a t-shirt and medal. Event registration and sponsorship opportunities are available online at www.redbankclassic.com.

A highlight of the Red Bank Classic, returning on June 18, 2022, is the Kids Broad Street Dash for children under 12. Event proceeds will benefit youth development programs for Red Bank kids.

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Count Basie Center, Phoenix Productions Announce Merger Two of the state’s most prolific nonprofit performing arts organizations to join forces in Red Bank WRITTEN BY

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The Count Basie Center for the Arts and Red Bank-based Phoenix Productions recently announced their intention to merge, allowing the community theatre company to officially become part of the organization which has hosted its productions for more than 30 years. “Coming out of the pandemic we were looking at how each of our nonprofit organizations could best serve the community,” said Adam Philipson, President & CEO, Count Basie Center for the Arts. “And we concluded by recognizing that we’re stronger together. This is a union three decades in the making, and we’re excited to work with Phoenix Artistic Producing Director James Grausam and continue Phoenix’s ongoing tradition of producing top-notch, quality community theater.” The Count Basie Center, one of New Jersey’s leading presenting organizations, will work with Phoenix to produce six performances in the next 12 months. Phoenix Productions has two previously announced runs at the Basie Center: The Wizard Of Oz in the venue’s historic theater April 29 through May 1, and Putting It Together, a tribute revue to composer Stephen Sondheim at The Vogel on March 11 and March 12. In addition, Phoenix’s educational offerings will be folded into the Count Basie Center Academy of the Arts curriculum beginning with the summer 2022 session. As part of the merger, three Phoenix Productions board members – Jerry Conaty, SoVonna Day-Goins, and Joe Wajda – have joined the Basie Center Board of Trustees, while Phoenix board member James Marhold has joined the Basie’s Advisory Board. Joe Wajda and SoVonna Day-Goins will co-chair a new Basie Center committee focused on Phoenix operations. The committee will also include Basie Center staff and board members, as well as former Phoenix board members. “From our initial conversations with Phoenix, there was clearly a level of shared core competencies to make sense of a potential merger,” said Count Basie Center Board of Trustees Chair Jeremy Grunin. “With this union, the Basie Center becomes both a presenting and producing organization, thus strengthening our mission to preserve and celebrate the arts.” The addition of Phoenix Productions complements the Basie Center’s long tenure of supporting the Broadway community, from its “Broadway At The Basie Center” series of national touring companies, to the annual Basie Awards, which honors excellence in Monmouth County high school theatre. The Count Basie Center Academy of the Arts also offers numerous Broadway-themed classes and workshops, in addition to nearly a dozen yearly mainstage productions featuring Academy students.

Photo Credit: Larry Levanti/CBA

CBA Names R. Ross Fales as First Lay President in School History The veteran school administrator has served as the Academy’s principal since 2015 After a comprehensive national search process, Christian Brothers Academy announced the appointment of R. Ross Fales as the fourth president in school history. He will be the first lay president of the Academy when his term officially begins in July 2022. Fales was selected by the Academy’s Board of Trustees after a four-month, national search process. Fales has served as the Academy’s principal since 2015, leading the all-boys, college preparatory school’s day-to-day academic operations and essential functions. During his tenure as principal, Fales has guided CBA to several accomplishments, most notably earning the National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence in 2017. It was the second time in school history that CBA earned the award and was one of just 50 high schools nationally to receive the accommodation that year. Fales’ successful tenure as principal has been marked by multiple enhancements to the student offerings, including additional Advanced Placement classes, dual enrollment courses with Manhattan College, the COLT Plus learning differences program, multiple varsity sports, and new music, theater, media, and robotics electives. In each graduating class under Fales’ guidance, more than 95 percent of students have attended U.S. News and World Report ranked colleges and universities. “I am both honored and humbled to accept the position of President of Christian Brothers Academy,” said Fales. “I would like to thank the Board of Trustees and the Brothers of the Christian Schools for giving me the opportunity to lead this institution that I love and that has become my home over the last 20 years.” Fales has 16 years of experience in school administration, earning his first role at CBA as Dean of Students in 2006. He was quickly elevated to Associate Principal for Student Affairs in 2007, where he oversaw discipline, student life, service programs, and athletics. As Associate Principal, he was responsible for the addition of multiple sports and clubs, and expanding music program, and more student-driven activities. A New Jersey native, Fales lives in Avon-by-the-Sea with his wife, Megan, and their three children.

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Meet Your Neighbor:

Dr. Peter Farrugia Believing people deserve a better quality of healthcare is the driving force behind his passion for his work and has led him to leave corporate medicine to focus on directly improving patient care by incorporating real education, lifestyle changes, and medication only when needed and appropriate. He recognizes each patient has his or her own unique circumstances and requires individual focus and attention, not to be treated as a number on the corporate conveyer belt of medicine. He is the CEO of Advanced Heart and Vascular of Central Jersey (AHV), located in Colts Neck. Meet your neighbor, Peter M. Farrugia MD, FACC, RPVI. Who we are as a family: My wife Erin and I have been married for 18 years. Erin is a Physician Assistant, working with me at AHV. We have four children, Samantha (14), Vincent (11), Brianna (8), and Thomas (6), and an energetic Labradoodle named Private. We moved to NJ from Long Island in 2011 after I finished my Interventional Cardiology Fellowship. We started off living in Howell, prior to moving to Colts Neck six years ago. Why I chose cardiology and vascular medicine: These are the important and basic aspects of medicine in my eyes. Working with patients to focus on lifestyle changes through exercise and dietary modification are core principles in prevention. When the need arises, my ability to perform procedures to improve blood flow to critical arteries in the heart and legs allows me to have a significant impact on a patient’s life. Developing long-lasting relationships with my patients, walking with them through their healthcare journey is what drives me to provide the highest quality of care. What sets me apart from others doing what I do: I focus care on each individual patient, spending more time to get to know who I am taking care of. I’m out from behind a computer, having a sincere conversation with you any time you come into our practice. I’ve had the opportunity to be an educator within my field, working with Medicine residents, Cardiology fellows and interventional cardiology fellows for the last 10 years. I work with the Monmouth University PA program, educating their students during clinical rotations. In 2019, I was named a Global Expert in Endovascular Arterial Therapy at LINC, a Global Vascular Conference. I have had the opportunity to present information at a variety of regional, national, and international conferences including live case streaming throughout the world to educate other physicians on advanced techniques from my lab. My best life or business tip to share: I share this with all of my patients. You cannot pour from an empty glass. Before you take care of or help another person, you have to make sure you have taken care of yourself. Stop putting your well-being last, exercise, eat well, and live the dream. My favorite quote: “Chance favors the prepared mind.” Louis Pasteur My biggest influence: My father has been the most influential person in my life. He was born in Malta and immigrated to the United states at the age of nine following the decimation of his country in World War II. He lived the American dream, building a life for his family through the principles of hard work and dedication. He lived a life of service; serving in the army, coaching soccer teams for my

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brothers and me, and worked as a special education advocate at a time when school boards did not want to help. He believed in the rights of middle-class Americans, working as a union rep and leader. My father passed away in December, but the meaning of his life is within me, and drives me to be better and to do more. What I do when not working: I spend time with my amazing family. I have coached multiple sports for my children, am an avid strength and conditioning trainer, and depending on the time of year I’m either enjoying a Yankees or Jets game. What I want you to know about me: I am here to help you if you want to be helped. There are plenty of physicians who will gladly rubber stamp the typical lifestyle, add medication, and move on. I focus on helping you identify where you can make real changes that may allow you to not need medication or even come off if appropriate. I can’t make you change; I can only help you along the way if you desire to make the better choices on your healthcare journey.

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Full STEAM Ahead By LiliAnn Paras | Photo Carmela Caracappa

Q: What can occur when a motivated individual acts on an idea and enlists the community to make it a reality? A: STEAMpark, a nonprofit organization to inspire life-long learning. Five years ago, Leigh Dym— concerned about both the lack of after school activities for underserved children, and scarce activities for all those not involved in sports—decided to act. She recruited many of her Rumson neighbors to set up programs focused on STEAM: Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. And so began STEAMpark, an organization dedicated to helping children in kindergarten through eighth grade to each reach their full potential, regardless of income or zip code. STEAM (and STEM) programs reach beyond merely reciting the concepts and vocabulary of these topics. STEAMpark provides handson learning with real world applications. “For example, if it’s a science activity, they may be exploding things or building things, (laughs) and, we always pull in computer literacy support,” explained Leigh. The students come from diverse backgrounds, the vast majority living throughout Monmouth County. There are also a handful of students

STEAMpark, Inc. Executive Teen Board Members from left to right: Aarya Doshi, Co-president (High Tech HS); Mala Shah, Director of Membership (Rutgers Prep); Nidhi Nair, Events Committee Chair (High Tech HS); Micaeli Dym, Co-president (High Tech HS); Isabella Incognito, Treasurer (Trinity Hall HS); Michael Chen, volunteer (High Tech HS); Sanai Rice, Co-Social Media Committee Chair (Middletown North HS); Missing from photo: Sophia Risin, Logistics Director (Stanford Online HS); Rayan Jawa, Secretary (Holmdel HS); Julianna Walsh, Co-Social Media Committee Chair (Trinity Hall HS)

from five other states and one from Saudi Arabia. When the pandemic hit, the Fair Haven school district approached STEAMpark about offering a virtual program. The needed supplies were delivered, and to make it more fun, students were awarded for their efforts with prizes picked up at the home of a Fair Haven volunteer. However, most of the children involved in STEAMpark programs attend schools in areas of need. “Some kids are being left behind so fast,” said Leigh. “They live in a home with parents who have insufficient resources to support their children. These kids sometimes become embarrassed and can eventually shut down. Programs like ours offer social equity. We want to make sure the kids are not afraid to fail, and recognize that failure is an opportunity to learn.”

Through donations and grants from organizations such as Social Creatures, the Jules L Plangere, Jr Family Foundation, and the Johnny Carson Foundation, STEAMpark is able to supply all the necessary kits and Chromebooks to distribute for virtual, at-home learning. Local high school students serve as role models and sometimes even coding instructors, alongside certified teachers. The Teen Board, advised by Tricia Lamendola, continues to be instrumental in proposing and executing the wide variety of programs offered virtually and in person. An in-person program is located in Keansburg, with a Trenton opening planned for April. Leigh is also enthusiastic about the program they operate in Asbury Park at the Second Baptist Church. “We love working with the church,” Leigh said. “We will never leave!”

One of STEAMpark’s strengths is the ability to adapt to the evolving needs of the students, to the pandemic, and to social realities. A few years ago, a flagship program called STEMgirls emerged after a STEAMpark presentation at the Neptune library. Although times have certainly changed from 20 years agowhen Mattel was roundly criticized for its Teen Talk Barbie exclaiming ‘Math class is tough!’ - there is still work to be done. At the library event, Leigh overheard a group of girls saying they didn’t like STEM. “I don’t think they even knew what STEM really was! So, we started STEMgirls and geared our coding program to suit the girls’ interests,” said Leigh. “That program is now full year, with enrollment of 95 girls from more than 60 schools. Supported by global companies such as leading financial services com-

CONTINUED >

"Programs like ours offer social equity. We want to make sure the kids are not afraid to fail, and recognize that failure is an opportunity to learn." LEIGH DYM, FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF STEAMpark

pany Instinet and pharma giant Bristol Myers Squibb, it helps girls build STEM skills, reading fluency and computer literacy in a holistic way.” STEMgirls also offers girls a chance to reduce the social isolation caused by the pandemic, to explore their personalities, and expand their interests with confidence in a safe place. Recently the girls were troubled and frightened by social justice events. The girls brought their concerns to the staff, expressing their desire to attend a march. “I get a little teary thinking about that time,” shared Leigh. “I had our staff work with a trauma specialist to help us understand what to say and how to support our girls.” Realizing it was important for their voices to be heard in a safe place, the STEMgirls staff initiated a solution. The girls spent class time sharing with teachers and peers, then were taught how to code their feelings and thoughts with words and pictures using

JavaScript as a programming language. Another STEAMpark initiative is now a pilot program supported by Mount Sinai Hospital and Social Creatures in New York City. During the pandemic, when in-person classes were halted and social workers had stopped visiting homes, teen board member Micaeli Dym created Teen Tutoring. Leigh contacted Dr. Rosemarie Perry, an applied research scientist from NYU about the idea, and she was impressed. Dr. Perry helped set up the program to match teen volunteers with students and created a system to measure weekly progress. This collaboration resulted in The Generational Youth Mentors (GYM) Program wherein there is an hour of virtual instruction once a week and the extra benefit of establishing friendships and trust. “GYM is in the pre-pilot stage and all the mentors and attendees are from STEAMpark. We are the living laboratory and the end goal is

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to scale it nationally,” said Leigh. Other benefits of STEAMpark are the personal growth and reciprocal joy experienced by the volunteers. Rayan Jawa, Secretary of the Teen Board, spoke of the camaraderie among the board members. “What surprised me most about my involvement with STEAMpark is that we not only serve our local community as volunteers and tutors, but we also form connections with each other as like-minded individuals. While earning community service hours and making a difference, I’m also able to bond with the other members of the Teen Board and have fun,” shared Rayan. The teen volunteers get the most fulfillment from making a difference in the young students’ lives. Sophia Risin, Logistics Director, recalled what happened when she gave a “real” book to a child in a paper-free school district. “The student became a serial reader, more excited to participate in class, and

Rayan Jawa (left), Teen Board Secretary, playing chess with a student. STEAMpark took two groups of campers from Asbury Park and Keansburg on a field trip to Liberty Science Center this past summer.

flourished in classes. The simple act of giving someone a book and talking had the effect of changing an entire demeanor and helping the student improve in school.” And Rayan experienced the satisfaction of seeing the concepts of chess bring pleasure to one of the summer campers. “I was able to teach a student how to play chess. Seeing his eyes light up was really motivating, and he even began to skip snack breaks and movie times to practice playing.” Micaeli recalled a similar experience at the summer Inspire Life STEAM Camp. “One student had more setbacks in his eleven years than most people experience in a lifetime. He was brilliant. However, he had lacked support and didn’t have the tools to excel in learning. We went to a local urban garden. He asked thought-provoking questions and I explained to him how the bees pollinated the strawberry plants. He had never even tried a strawberry before, and it gave me such joy to see the wheels turning in his head. This moment affected me deeply. I was surprised with how much of a difference I can make as a kid myself. There is nothing quite like the light in kids’ eyes when a new concept clicks for them and they are excited by learning.” The teen volunteers witness firsthand the disparity of available resources, and have made it their mission to level the playing field for as many children as possible.

Sophia Risin (left), Teen Board Logistics Director, with a student.

Volunteers and supporters can find out more at www.steampark.org. A fun way to support STEAMpark is at the upcoming 2022 Texas Hold ‘Em Charity Poker Tournament at Monmouth Park on Thursday, March 24. To register or become a sponsor, visit www.steampark.org/poker.

CommunityMagazineNJ.com MARCH 2022

Boundless Breath BY MEGAN CALLUS

Are you feeling Nervous? Anxious? Unmotivated? Sad? or On Edge? You are not alone.

Today, most of us are in constant low-grade stress. The pandemic, financial strain, political polarization, and increasing demands on our time are taking a toll on our physical and mental health.

Find your pause button.

For the next few weeks, try this simple exercise. » Focus on breathing through your nose, taking slightly longer exhalations than inhalations.

» Relax into your breath and So, what can we do when our the sensations you feel. Pay stress response system goes wild attention to how the air feels and we can’t control the situations entering your nostrils and around us? We can alter the way leaving your nostrils. we breathe. It sounds too good » When you find yourself to be true, yet there is mounting starting to feel tense or evidence that HOW we breathe anxious, use your breathing can impact our body’s response to calm you. Taking even one to stress, either sending our body conscious breath can make a into fight or flight, or, quieting our difference. overactive and anxious minds.

Join me for weekly breathing meditation classes in March.

Using music, breath, and other techniques, you will be given tools to become more present and peaceful in these stressful times. I look forward to working with you. Classes are offered virtually, and will be in-person at Reactive in Colts Neck and at Alchemy House of Yoga in Atlantic Highlands. Contact me to register or to learn more.

*consult a doctor if you have cardiovascular issues or issues af fecting your breathing

Credentials & Certifications Bucknell, BA: Tufts, Masters • Certified Functional Aging Specialist • Certified Integrative Movement Specialist • Applied Neuroanatomy Specialist ZHealth

• Trained in Specialized Breathwork Technique » Buteyko Breathing Method » Patrick Mckeown’s Advanced Functional Breathing

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Pet Celebs Katie of Little Silver

Lemmy of Asbury Park Maia of Rumson Bodie of Rumson

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Noodles of Middletown Bruno of Lincroft Sayta Panchal of Holmdel

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Murphy of Little Silver

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Daisy & Lilly of Rumson Caymus & Max of Lincroft

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Juno & Koda of Holmdel

Cheyanne of Atlantic Highlands

Buddy & Belle of Holmdel

Princess of Colts Neck Biscuit & Midnight of Colts Neck

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Murphy of Little Silver Bibi of Colts Neck

Rocky & Ginger of Red Bank

Brooks of Red Bank

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Lottie of Rumson

Luna of Rumson

Bruno of Rumson

Max of Lincroft

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Mia of Colts Neck

Continued on Page 66

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A love affair of cinema! The Garden State Film Festival Returns The Garden State Film Festival (GSFF) returns for its 20th anniversary edition March 23 to March 27, 2022 for in-person events, as well as the new virtual showcase March 28 to April 3—a total of 12 days of cinema screenings and events. In 2020, the GSFF became the first festival to switch to an all-virtual format as a result of the pandemic and returned in a hybrid in-person/virtual iteration in 2021. For 2022, GSFF offers cineastes the chance to enjoy in-person premieres, parties, and seminars once again. Alternatively, the virtual ticket allows you to screen your choice of numerous titles anytime within the virtual week. It’s the ultimate hybrid of entertainment! This year, the festival will offer 200 films comprising both feature-length and short dramas, thrillers, comedies, documentaries, student films, foreign films, videos and web series, music and more! Live events will include seminars, filmmaker interviews, the Friday Night Gala and the finale awards presentation. Additionally, for the 20th anniversary, the festival has announced

the Kevin Smith Home Grown Feature Award, named in honor of Jersey’s own celebrity filmmaker and his determination to make his Hollywood dreams come true. The Asbury Lanes will host “Meet the Filmmaker” on March 24, which offers guests a sneak peek at the festival’s full line-up of films and special events. A reception prior to the screening includes a cash bar and complimentary hors d’oeuvres. Industry Days returns to connect Tri-State area-based and visiting filmmakers with the public during panels, workshops, master classes, and networking events. Garden State Film Festival, New Jersey’s Premier Independent Film Festival®, sees over 25,000 attendees converge on the seaside community of Asbury Park each year. It all started as a dream by founder Diane Raver to create a 501(c)3 non-profit organization to promote the art of filmmaking at all levels. Since that time, the festival has increased to offer creative arts education programs and a forum for both local and international independent filmmakers to exhibit their work.

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“Whether you attend in person or screen the films at home, you will be treated to a diverse and carefully chosen selection of films and music videos,” said Executive Director Lauren Concar Sheehy. “The GSFF is a celebration of independent film that you can’t see anywhere else.” This year, First Lady Tammy Snyder Murphy, wife of Governor Phil Murphy, will serve as honorary chair. “We hope you will join us and support our efforts in the State of New Jersey to use the cinematic arts not only to bring the best in a cultural event to our state, but to support our outreach programs throughout the entire state and throughout the year to seniors, underserved youth, and our military, among others,” said Concar Sheehy. The in-person Multi Pass gives you access to all in-person events (except the awards ceremony) and is just $75. It is suggested you get these tickets in advance as it will sell out. The ALL ACCESS Virtual Pass is only $44.99. Visit gsff.org for tickets, screening schedules, and tons of cool information.

DI VORCE TA LK

BY PET ER C . PA R A S , E SQ.

DIVORCE TALK: EXPECTATIONS For many people going through a divorce, it is their first experience with the legal system and with a lawyer. So, what can you expect? Indeed, what should you expect? Candor - You should expect to be candid with your lawyer. Your lawyer can only help you and protect your legal rights if you tell him or her everything. Holding back puts him at a disadvantage, which puts you at a disadvantage. The last place your lawyer wants to learn something about you is from your spouse’s lawyer. Conversely, you should expect candor from your lawyer. The reason you hired a lawyer is because you need a professional with knowledge of the law and experience in navigating the legal system to help you get through the process. Your lawyer is required to give you an honest, objective assessment. Sometimes that means telling you what you want to hear. But, sometimes it means telling you what you might not like to hear. Only when you tell your lawyer everything and he or she objectively assesses your case with the knowledge you have shared, can you and your lawyer devise the strategy most calculated to achieve your goals. You’re not hiring a “yes man”. You’re hiring someone who is trained to deal with the negatives in your case in the most effective way possible. Diligence – You should expect your lawyer to know you and to know your case. Only

through preparation and hard work can your lawyer know the case better than anyone else in the room – whether it’s a conference room or a courtroom. There is no substitute for preparation. Knowing the case puts you in a position of strength which becomes apparent early on and gives your spouse and your spouse’s lawyer a clear message. Diligence also allows your lawyer to properly assess the strengths and weaknesses of the case (no case is perfect – they all have weaknesses) so that strengths can be exploited and weaknesses can be strategically minimized. Communication – This is your lawyer’s case, but it’s your life. You should expect to be informed regularly about developments in your case. You should receive copies of everything that comes into or goes out of your lawyer’s office about your case. When you are informed, you don’t have to imagine what is going on. You can deal with reality, not fantasy. When you are informed, you can make better decisions. Your goals can be more intelligently formed and you can participate more fully as a member of your team (your lawyer, his staff and you). The lawyer should put himself or herself in the client’s position and imagine how it would feel to be kept in the dark. Your lawyer probably wouldn’t like it. You shouldn’t either. Payment – Family lawyers work hard in a

field fraught with emotion, emergencies, and real issues gravely important to real people and families. Most are committed to advocating zealously and fairly for their clients and to achieving their clients’ reasonable goals. As you are entitled and expect to be paid for the work you do, family lawyers are entitled and expect to be paid for the work they do. Therefore, you should expect to pay your lawyer in a timely manner for the services rendered to you. You should expect to receive, review and sign a retainer agreement which clearly outlines the financial arrangement for representation. Your lawyer should sign it, too. This is your contract. It is an important legal document required by the Supreme Court of New Jersey in all divorce cases. You should also expect to regularly receive itemized bills so you will know what specific services have been rendered and what you are paying for. You, as the client, should have certain expectations when it comes to candor, communication, diligence, and payment of fees. Equally important, however, is the fact that, in each category, there are expectations for the client to fulfill. It’s a two way street which, when accepted equally by the client and the lawyer, sets a course for success.

The information in this article is not intended as legal advice. For legal advice you should consult your attorney.

Professionalism Since 1996 Bonnie M.S. Reiss

Selected as “Super Lawyer” by NJ Monthly 2006 - 2021

Peter C. Paras

Selected as “Super Lawyer” by NJ Monthly 2006 - 2021 Included in Best Lawyers in America 2015 - 2021 2020 Justice Daniel J. O'Hern Award Recipient Best Lawyers in New York Area – New York Times 2021

Patricia E. Apy

2015 ABA Grassroots Advocacy Award recipient Selected as "Super Lawyer" by NJ Monthly 2019 - 2021

Michael J. Fleres

NJ Supreme Court Certified Matrimonial Law Attorney

A Professional Corporation For The Practice of Family Law 2 Bridge Avenue • The Galleria • Suite 601 • Red Bank, NJ 07701 • Tel: 732.219.9000 • Fax: 732.219.9020 • par-law.com

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RFH Student-Athletes Make College Commitments

Standing, left to right: Scott Gyimesi-basketball, Tufts University; Colin Kennedy-football, Villanova University; Jack McCarren-lacrosse, Kenyon College; Shay Addison-wrestling, Arizona State University; Geoffrey Schroeder-football, Johns Hopkins University; Christian Bockelmann-lacrosse, Yale University; and Ryan McKay-football, Middlebury College. Sitting, left to right: Michael Amendola-baseball, Williams College; George Clough-football, Middlebury College; Aiden Moriarty-football, Washington and Lee University; Megan Elgrim-cross country, East Stroudsburg University; Grace Anne McCooey-field hockey, Princeton; Justin Worobel-football, Dickinson College; John Lista-football, University of Pennsylvania; and Aidan Stevenson-lacrosse, McDaniel College

Fifteen Rumson-Fair Haven athletes made their college choices official by signing “Letters of Intent’’ to continue their academic and athletic careers at colleges and universities across the country. Surrounded by their families, friends, coaches, teammates, teachers, and administrators, the athletes donned their new colors and celebrated their hard work both in the classroom and on the sports field. Michael Amendola, baseball, and Scott Gyimesi, basketball, will take their talents to Massachusetts where they will join the teams at Williams College and Tufts University, respectively. Megan Elgrim looks to make her mark on East Stroudsburg University’s CrossCountry team and Grace Anne McCooey will stay close to home when she takes her field hockey stick to Princeton University. Seven football players will join the scores of Dawgs before them to bring the lessons they learned under the lights at Borden Stadium to the NCAA. George Clough and Ryan McKay will look to take the

field at Middlebury College in Vermont. Pennsylvania will get a slew of Bulldogs in Colin Kennedy, Villanova University, John Lista, University of Pennsylvania, and Justin Worobel, Dickinson College. Aiden Moriarity and Geoffrey Schroeder will head south and join the squads at Washington and Lee University in Virginia, and Johns Hopkins University in Maryland, respectively. Before their final high school season begins, three lacrosse players have decided their futures. Christian Bockelmann will stay a Bulldog when he joins the team at Yale University in Connecticut, Jack McCarren will continue donning purple when he takes the field at Kenyon College in Ohio, and Aidan Stevenson hopes to make an impact as he joins the Green Terrors at McDaniel College in Maryland. Wrestler Shay Addison, in the midst of a standout season, will hit the mats at Arizona State University this fall. These athletes will join countless others from RFH, both past and present, who have risen to new heights in the NCAA.

CommunityMagazineNJ.com MARCH 2022

This spring, watch for the Grand Opening of our brand new 12,000 sq ft outdoor living showroom filled with all the stuff that backyard dreams are made of! We will be your one stop shop for all your outdoor living needs and gifts with exciting new products and services. In addition to all the landscape supplies, mulch, stone, etc. and services you know us for, we will now carry: Many New Outdoor Furniture Lines • Umbrellas & Outdoor Rugs • Outdoor Kitchens, Cabinetry, Appliances & Grills • Outdoor Entertainment, TVs & Backyard Games • Outdoor Lighting and Heating • Home Decor, Holiday Decor, Giftware and so much more! If creating an outdoor living space is on your to do list we can help with all phases of planning and installation. Short on time? Let us connect you with local professionals who can do the job for you. 732.741.8338 145 White Road, Little Silver, NJ ryserslandscapesupply.com

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Fair Haven Seventh Grade Mid Monmouth Basketball Team Wins Championship

Fair Haven Mid Monmouth Boys Basketball Team (left to right, front row) Brody Mauro, Henry Schirick, Cole Hogan, Keagan Kearns, Ben Padula, Casey Moore, Jack Kingery; (left to right, back row) Cole Spoonier, Coach Chris Grier, Danny Sullivan, Ben Gredell, Will Grier, and Coach Dennis Sullivan

By Susan Murphy On January 30 at the Hoop Group, Fair Haven’s Mid Monmouth Basketball Team, consisting of 11 seventh grade boys, won the championship game by defeating Ocean Township with a score of 59-37. Chris Grier and Dennis Sullivan, who coach the team, noted that eight of these eleven boys have been together with the team and program since third grade. “This is an extremely talented and determined group, whose persistence and resilience has often been tested. Having come up just short for the title in years past, the collective group never lost sight of their overall goal – becoming Fair Haven’s first boys’ team to ever win the title,” said Grier. “Beyond all else, as a coach, watching them truly play as a team, together, for Fair Haven makes me most proud of their development. We could not have accomplished what we did without the contributions of all 11 of these boys up and down the roster playing for each other.” Three of the boys shared their reactions to this win. “We won as a team and needed all 11 of us in order to go undefeated and win the championship; especially this year, when most of us missed games because of Covid,” said Brody Mauro. “Everyone contributed and that’s why we had so much fun.” “We started playing together in third grade and came very close so many times to winning the championship in the past, but we never gave up or stopped working and this year, we played more unselfish than ever before which helped us get to the top,” said Will Grier. “I knew we could win it all this year when we beat the reigning champs by 20 points mid-season,” said Danny Sullivan.

“There were zero personal agendas with this group. They just wanted to win as a team. All of them were extremely selfless and put the team goal of winning the championship ahead of any individual accolades. The results speak for themselves – 16-0 perfect season,” said Grier. “The boys’ development as basketball players and their continued understanding of the game itself afforded us the opportunity to expand what we could in a game setting, throwing more at them in terms of understanding and executing game plans on a game-by-game basis.” Grier and Sullivan have taken great pride in developing the basketball fundamentals in these boys. “But even more importantly, developing these boys to be the best people they can be off the court as well. As the boys have grown and matured from third grade to now, I could not be prouder of their development as players, but even more so as fine young men,” shared Grier. He explained that the majority of the boys have grown up going to school together, shooting hoops at the park together, playing other sports on the same team together; and the familiarity, friendship, and appreciation the boys have with each other on and off the court is special. “This bond as well as setting the legacy as the first team to do this for Fair Haven is something they will always be able to say they shared in together,” said Grier. “As a coach, being able to enjoy this experience with my son and 10 of his buddies will always be a special memory for me. I have always believed that as a coach you want to challenge the kids but also provide a lifetime of positive experience they can take with them for the rest of their lives.”

CommunityMagazineNJ.com MARCH 2022

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE CommunityMagazineNJ.com

RBR Senior Continues Football Journey into College

CURIOSITY

By Susan Murphy Lifelong Little Silver resident Cian Curylo started his football journey at age five, nurturing his dream of being a professional or college football player for as long as he can remember. At 17 years old, his football career, thus far, is everything he hoped it would be and will now continue at Marshall University in West Virginia on a football scholarship. “Focusing on Division 1 football schools, I entered into a long recruitment process consisting of virtual junior days, summer camp showcases, game day visits, a great deal of emailing/texting with coaches, phone calls, and much more. I really felt the love from Marshall and their genuine want for me as a football player and a person. Marshall’s elite football program really caught my attention,” shared Curylo. During his high school career, Curylo played running back and linebacker at Red Bank Regional High School. He has always been a Red Bank Buccaneer. He started out playing flag football with Red Bank Pop Warner, which became American Youth Football (AYF). Many of the teammates he played with throughout grammar and high school are still playing together today. “When I was in eighth grade, I went to tryouts and was chosen to represent Red Bank for the New Jersey AYF 14U All Star Team, which competed in Orlando, Florida for a National Championship,” noted Curylo. Curylo is committed to following his dream of being a college level athlete, but he also takes time to appreciate the rewards of being part of a team. “I would say the thing that has been driving me to continue playing football all of these years is the fast-paced competition and the friendships I made while competing. My teammates and I are going through it all together and that’s something I really enjoy about the sport,” shared Curylo. “When I was younger, I played a lot of sports that took place in different seasons. Some of them overlapped, so my dad told me to choose one to focus on. My choice was football. I always said I wanted to be a football player when I grew up.”

Ranney students are creative and critical thinkers who explore many passions, and welcome new challenges. Ranney fosters curiosity with its customized curriculum and vast student life opportunities.

CommunityMagazineNJ.com MARCH 2022

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S H R E WS B U RY 7 32 - 576 - 8 1 8 8

LIT TLE S I LV E R 732-530 - 6777

MONMOUTH COUNTY’S TOP LUXURY SPECIALIST “We continue to experience never-before-seen demand for inventory, particularly in northeastern Monmouth County’s luxury market. Buyers are hungry and paying TOP DOLLAR for homes in your neighborhood. If you are interested in exploring the sale of your home, reach out and let’s discuss your goals. There has NEVER been a better time to sell your home.”

M 732.996.1292 O 732.812.3700 E Christian@GiamancoRealEstate.com Christian Giamanco, Agent/Team Leader The Real Estate Leaders at eXp Realty LLC. www.GiamancoRealEstate.com

Locally Owned & Family Operated

Everyday Discount Prices

Red Bank 362 Broad Street

Lincroft 720 Newman Springs Rd

Atlantic Highlands Hwy 36 & First Avenue

Red Bank 56 Newman Springs Road

Port Monmouth 426 Hwy 36 & Wilson Avenue

Middletown 853 Hwy 35

Ocean Hwy 35 & Deal Road

Sea Girt 2204 Hwy 35

Sea Girt Hwy 35 & Sea Girt Avenue