Manasquan +Brielle
COFFEE READING WHAT YOUR BREW REVEALS
HOPE AND HEALING IN MENTAL HEALTH
GREGORY RICE GREGORY RICE PRESENTS PRESENTS
80 Allen Ave, Manasquan
80 Allen Ave, Manasquan
List Price: $1,995,000
"Builder's Own" custom-built home, only 9 yrs young, 4BR/4BA, 3,100+ sq. ft.on oversized 100' wide lot that backs up to private woods! Highly upgraded w/ cedar shake siding, custom stone, coffered ceilings, luxury trim and moldings & more! Private and tranquil setting, yet just 1 block into downtown Manasquan!
124 Morris Ave, Manasquan
124 Morris Ave, Manasquan
List Price: $1,595,000
Only 10 years young, tucked away between downtown Manasquan and Brielle's Marina District, this 5BR/3BA, 2,600 sq. ft. coastal home is sunny, bright, walking/biking distance to everything, and has Glimmer Glass access at the end of the street for kayaks/paddleboards/jet-skis!
66 N. Potter Ave, Manasquan
66 N. Potter Ave, Manasquan
List Price: $1,500,000
Lakefront lot ready to build just a few blocks from the beach, downtown, parks, and marinas! CAFRA approvals are done for a 3,000-4,000 sq. ft. beauty with panoramic water views and ready for your boats, waverunners, kayaks and paddleboards!
915 Cole Dr, Brielle
915 Cole Dr, Brielle
List Price: $2,395,000
Spacious 3,700+ sq. ft. 5BR/6BA on oversized lot (almost an acre!) in the most prestigious section of Brielle, across the street from $5-10 million dollar riverfront homes! 1st Floor Master BR, large rooms, a stunning backyard oasis, and river access 1 block away!
406 Brown St, Brielle
406 Brown St, Brielle
List Price: $1,495,000
Perfectly charming & classic 3BR/2.5BA Cape Cod style home w/ new kitchen, new baths, new roof & new fire pit patio & more! Incredible wraparound mahogany front porch, and just a 2-3 block stroll to several waterfront restaurants!
Daniel
Alaina
Toms River: 732-286-1199
9 Hospital Drive, Ste. 6
Toms River, NJ 08755
Brick: 732-840-4600 1608 Route 88W, Ste. 101 Brick, NJ 08724 Sea Girt: 732-974-0680 2130 Route 35, Ste. 112
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Get in the Game this November...and Play Nice.
Let’s talk football. November is a big month for the gridiron. A game that would be unthinkable without the rivalries. Maybe in a perfect world, a sport like football could be played with excellent manners, but here in the good old US of A, intense and sometimes vicious rivalry has always come with the territory.
Of course, the team that you root for has a lot to do with where you come from and who you hang out with. If your best friends are Giants fans, you probably see the world in blue. If you move to Kansas City, you might begin to see the world in red. Some people love a particular team because their mom or dad loved that team; some people root against a team for exactly the same reason.
And that brings me to loyalty. A lot of people take pride in blindly supporting the same team, year after year, no matter how their team is doing professionally. Personally, I don’t think
loyalty should be blind. I don’t feel obligated to buy season tickets for any particular team, especially if last year’s program was a disaster. If another organization is running a better program than the home team, I’ll call it like I see it.
On that note, I think we can all agree that every football team plays dirty sometimes. No single team has a record of perfect sportsmanship. And I think it’s our duty as football fans to stay civil and respectful, even when the game on the field is littered with fouls.
So even if your favorite team’s professional rivals drive you absolutely crazy, keep in mind that most of the rival team’s fans are good, decent hard-working taxpayers, just like you. The obnoxious fans may be the loudest, but they don’t represent the whole stadium.
On an unrelated note, you may have heard that there’s a pretty big election happening this month. It looks like I’m running out of space already, so I won’t be able to make any lengthy political analyses.
Instead, I’ll just wrap this up with one more observation from my years as a football fan: No matter who wins or loses the big game, the world is not going to end. Any great team— and even the best country in the world—has its rebuilding years. There is always another season and always a reason to be hopeful. Have a great November, and don’t forget to vote.
Christopher Baldi Editor
Manasquan +Brielle MAGAZINE
Group Publisher
Jodi Bruker
Director of Business Development
Kathy Gordon
Editor
Christopher Baldi
Writers
Alanna Mahon
Molly Mechler
Morgan Mechler
Darren Monroe
Meghan Schultzel
Audrey Stathakis
Photographer
Alanna Mahon
Audrey Stathakis
Social Media Manager
Molly Mechler
WAINSCOT MEDIA
Chairman
Carroll V. Dowden
President and CEO
Mark Dowden
VP, Group Publisher, Regional
Thomas Flannery
VP, Content Strategy
Maria Regan
Creative Director
Kijoo Kim
Art Director
Rosemary O’Connell
Associate Editor
Sophia Carlisle
Advertising Services Director
Jacquelynn Fischer
Operations Director
Catherine Rosario
Production Designer
Chris Ferrante
Print Production Manager
Fern Meshulam
Advertising Production Associate
Griff Dowden
Manasquan + Brielle magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Manasquan and Brielle, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Copyright 2024 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.
PHOTOGRAPH BY ALANA MAHON
Around Town
Thousands gathered at Asbury Park’s North Beach to enjoy live music, sunshine and professional surfing at the annual Sea.Hear. Now Festival, co-founded by Toms River native and acclaimed rock photographer Danny Clinch. 2024 was inarguably the festival’s biggest and best year ever, with a recordbreaking 35,000 people attending Sunday night to see Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band play an astonishing three-hour set.
Saturday night was similarly packed, albeit with a noticeably younger crowd, as Noah Kahan performed an energetic 90-minute set, during which he expressed his amazement to be headlining the same festival as Springsteen.
In total, 30 artists performed across three stages, including 311, The Revivalists, Grace Potter, Norah Jones and The Black Crowes, as well as New Jersey artists The Gaslight Anthem, Joe P, Sunshine Spazz, Sonic Blume and Rachel Ana Dobken.
As music blasted in all directions, a dozen professional surfers took to the ocean, including Manasquan’s Audrey Iglay and Pat Schmidt. While Saturday offered relatively calm conditions, Sunday gave the surfers more opportunities to show off their skills.
But through it all, the weekend belonged to Springsteen, who at 75 years old remains one of the world’s greatest live performers. On Saturday, The Boss joined Clinch’s Tangiers Blues Band for a late night show at The Stone Pony. On Sunday, he made two backto-back surprise appearances, first joining Trey Anastasio for a song, followed by two songs with The Gaslight Anthem, before finally launching into his own climactic 30-song headlining set.
The crowd positively erupted when The E Street Band took the stage and kicked off with “Lonesome Day.” Thousands of fans lined the beach, stretching from Convention Hall to The Carousel House. Thousands more arranged lawn chairs and coolers outside the festival grounds, listening to the show from a distance. Springsteen’s historic set featured smash hits and deep cuts, and finally concluded with “Jersey Girl,” capping a night nobody would soon forget.
SHARE THE SCARES
Thanks for all of the feedback from readers who loved our October issue! Reader Leah Sonta sent us this photo as she was enjoying the coverage of her hair-raising childhood stories. Meanwhile, reader Bob Randolph reached out with an amazing correction: In our coverage of New Jersey horror movies, we reported on Toms River’s “Amityville Horror” house, and its famous “eye windows,” which by all accounts had been lost to time. It turns out that the iconic Amityville windows are safe and sound, and right here in Manasquan! Mr. Randolph purchased the windows from the original production team, over 40 years ago!
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY
On September 26, Kristin Dahl Ladies Boutique celebrated a year at their Manasquan Main Street location with a rollicking in-store event. The celebration brought out friends, family and loyal customers, along with food by The Blonde Shallot and Nick + Sons Bakery.
Have you ever experienced a Christmas miracle? Do you have an amazing holiday story? Maybe you’ve had a close encounter with Santa? We want to hear from you! We’re hard at work on our December issue, and we’re looking for Christmas and holiday-themed stories from Manasquan, Brielle and the Jersey Shore! Reindeer on your roof? Elf sightings? We want to know! Email us at hello@manasquan-brielle.com!
• November 23:
Calling all turkeys! Get a head start on burning off the holiday calories at the 41st Annual Manasquan Turkey Trot! The 1 mile begins at 10 a.m., the 5 mile begins at 11 a.m. Register now at runsignup.com.
• November 27:
On the night before Turkey Day, grab the family and march on down to Main Street for the Thanksgiving Eve Parade and Bonfire! Come show your support for the Big Blue Warriors of MHS football, as they get ready to take on Wall Township at 11 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day! Register now at runsignup.com.
Süp Season is Here!
Chef Darren hosts various events, such as farm-to-table dinners and cooking classes throughout the Jersey Shore. To learn more about Süp and where to find it, visit Chef Darren’s website at www.darrenmonroe.co and check out his socials @darren.monroe.
Cooking with Chef Darren
BY DARREN MONROE
If you’ve read my articles, come to any of my events or know me personally, you know that soups are kind of my thing. I love making them and eating them. To me, a bowl of soup is a perfect food. If done right, of course. I could (and do) eat soup year-round. Sure, the colder months are when we crave these warm bowls of goodness the most, but to limit your soup consumption to chilly nights is really doing your body a disservice. As I like to say, in my best Big Lebowski voice: “Soup Season is a social construct, man.” It really is.
In fact, I am so passionate about soups that I’m even starting a new venture called Süp (pronounced / /). It’s a smallbatch packaged soup company, simmered by the sea, offering balanced nutrition as well as tasty and unique flavor profiles. I’ll be selling these soups exclusively at markets and events throughout the area for the next few months. Check my website and social media for details.
A little background: Süp is an Old Nordic word lost to time meaning “hearty stew.” Packed with protein and vegetables, the traditional version of süp was prepared by the warrior Viking class of Scandinavia and provided much needed fuel for long voyages, battles and everyday life in the Viking Age.*
*Full disclosure: This origin story has been slightly embellished for the sake of a good yarn, but it’s essentially true. Vikings did feast on hearty stews, but they didn’t call it “süp.” I made up this word to be different and cool. Plus, I love umlauts. Let the Viking police arrest me!
Fast forward to today: Süp strikes the delicate balance between convenience, flavor and nutrition to help you meet the many demands of modern life. With high quality protein for building muscle, complex carbs for sustained energy and fiber to keep things moving, Süp is more than just ordinary soup. It’s a complete meal.
I created Süp to help people who are too busy, too tired or even just too lazy to navigate the confusing labyrinth of internet diet and health information. Life’s complicated but eating healthy doesn’t have to be. As noted food author Michael Pollan once said: “Eat real food. Mostly plants. Not too much.” With this venture, I’ve created a convenient and delicious food that you can enjoy with peace of mind, knowing that you’re fueling yourself and your family with good nutrition.
From a culinary artist’s point of view, I also had to make these soups creative
and unique. We use flavor-elevating Two River Gourmet Mushrooms, and the perfect balance of whole food ingredients to create incredibly tasty and interesting dishes. This includes my take on Classic Tomato Mushroom Soup called Umami-Bomb Bisque with Jersey tomatoes and shiitake. There’s also my twist on New England Clam Chowder called Jersey Shroom Corn Chowda with sweet potatoes, black pearl mushrooms and cashew cream. Finally, there’s my spin on Thai Curry called Thai Kaleidö Curry, loaded with a rainbow spectrum of garden vegetables and organic tofu!
Ultimately, Süp is my attempt to offer a convenient food to keep your tastebuds’ happy and to “Fuel Your Mission.” We all have missions both big and small. Sometimes our mission means pursuing something much bigger than ourselves, and sometimes, it’s just to get the kids (or ourselves) ready for school! Our mission at Süp is to fuel your mission, no matter the size, with really good food.
What’s your mission?
Opposite page: Jersey Shroom Corn Chowda, with sweet potato and black pearl mushroom. This page: Chef Darren’s Thai Kaleido Curry.
CANTORIA
Winning Shots
Putting the focus on three of the community’s best local photographers.
BY MORGAN MECHLER
In recent years, photographers Jack Trengrove, Sean Dettlinger and “Jersey Mike” Cassella have each captured some of the most sublime and exciting images that the Jersey Shore has to offer, from stunning wildlife photography to instantly iconic sports moments. The images they share online have become an indelible part of the local culture, across Manasquan, Brielle and beyond. If a picture is worth a thousand words, this is the story behind those pictures, in the words of the photographers who captured them.
How did you get into photography?
JACK TRENGROVE: I started taking pictures in 2004 when my son Matt played football and lacrosse for Manasquan High School, from 2004 to 2008. I was active in the football and lacrosse clubs and was asked to take photos for the end-of-year video. I continued to take photos when my second son Andrew began his athletic journey, playing both football and lacrosse, from 2008 to 2012. My hobby grew to include many other sports, especially after I retired. Chris Rice, a parent, friend and expert in photography, has been a great source of advice and support over the years.
SEAN DETTLINGER: I’ve always had a camera with me on fishing trips and vacations for as long as I can remember. When my children began playing sports, I started to reach for my camera more and more. Over time, I took a more serious interest and invested in better equipment. I’m always looking to capture “the moment,” to have memories to look back on. In 2019, Chris Rice invited me to the sidelines with my camera when my son was a freshman, and I’ve been on the sidelines ever since.
MIKE CASSELLA: I bought a Nikon D90 DSLR to take photos on my honeymoon, but I really didn’t know how to use the camera properly, so I shot everything in auto mode. After the trip, the camera didn’t get much use until I took an interest in shooting our local surfers at the Manasquan Inlet, in the fall of 2012. From there, I gradually learned how to properly use the camera more effectively, teaching myself new techniques. Now, I rarely leave home without one.
Opposite page: Fishing under the summer sky.
Photo by Sean Dettlinger. Left: Manasquan and Wall clash on the football field.
Photo by Jack Trengrove.
Bottom: A family of swans nest in Brielle. Photo by Mike Cassella.
What type of photography is your favorite?
TRENGROVE: I focus on sports photography because I enjoy action photos. However, building positive family memories by taking photos of players and their parents is important to me. Time goes quickly, and photos give us an opportunity to recall happy times.
DETTLINGER: I love capturing action shots, like the ball flying through the air as it leaves the quarterback’s hands, or players leaping for joy while celebrating a great play.
CASSELLA: Sports photography is my favorite, but I really enjoy the places my wildlife photography takes me. The stillness of animals in their natural habitats creates a powerful experience.
Do you have a favorite sport to shoot? A favorite location?
TRENGROVE: I would say football and lacrosse. My favorite location is undoubtedly home games. Manasquan teams get great support from the cheerleaders, the student body, their parents and the community. The encouragement really adds to the game day excitement and makes for an electric experience.
DETTLINGER: I love photographing any sport that my kids are playing. I particularly enjoy shooting day games because of the action and the energy from the crowds. There’s something special about the atmosphere. I especially love being on the sidelines at home games.
Cassella: My favorite sports to shoot are football and surfing. All of my favorite locations are related to my wildlife photography. Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming is my absolute favorite, followed by close second Banff and Jasper National Parks in Alberta, Canada.
Top: A wild fox of Island Beach State Park. Photo by Mike Cassella.
Middle: A perfect break at the Manasquan Inlet. Photo by Mike Cassella.
Bottom: Mid-stroke at a Manasquan swim meet. Photo by Sean Dettlinger.
What kind of camera do you use?
TRENGROVE: The Canon EOS 7D Mark II has been my primary camera for the past 8 years. However, I’m excited to try out my new camera, the EOS R6 Mark II, which was generously given to me by the high school sports clubs this past June. I was surprised with this extremely thoughtful gift while taking pictures during a graduation practice. Their kindness in doing this for me was deeply appreciated, and I was truly speechless. This new camera will keep me on the sidelines for a few more years.
DETTLINGER: The Mirrorless Nikon Z6II. It’s my go to camera for capturing the players’ celebrations, hard work and determination. It’s ideal for capturing powerful moments.
CASSELLA: Currently I use a Nikon Z9 mirrorless camera, and a combination of many different lenses, depending on the sport, animal or subject that I’m photographing. This setup allows me to adapt to different scenarios and capture the best possible shots.
What is the most important thing to know about capturing a perfect shot?
TRENGROVE: Equipment and camera settings are very important in sports photography, especially if you want to freeze the action in the photo. Having the right gear and adjusting the settings can make all the difference in capturing images of fast-paced moments.
DETTLINGER: The most important thing is being ready at all times. You have to watch the game through the lens—it’s the best seat in the house. I love being so close to the action, where every moment and memory is just a click away.
CASSELLA: I think it’s a combination of finding a good subject, telling a story with that subject and doing so in a unique way with good light. Each element plays a crucial role in creating a photograph that captures the moment.
Top: Manasquan Lacrosse. Photo by Jack Trengrove. Middle: A Snowy Owl; winter at Island Beach State Park. Photo by Mike Cassella. Bottom: American Oystercatcher birds spotted in Brielle. Photo by Mike Cassella.
If you had to choose, what is your favorite photo that you have ever taken?
TRENGROVE: I don’t have a favorite photo, but I find family photos and sideline shots to be the most rewarding. These pictures help build positive memories that last a lifetime. I post all my photos on Facebook and make them public so that players and families can download, save and share them at no cost. Knowing that these moments are accessible and bringing joy to others is what makes it all worthwhile for me.
DETTLINGER: Aside from photos of my own family, the ones that bring the most joy are those that make a child happy. Kids get really excited when they see pictures of themselves, and if they think it’s a good shot and want to share it with their friends, that makes me happy, too. There’s nothing better than when a kid appreciates the picture, shares it on their personal social media pages and says thank you.
CASSELLA: It’s kind of cliché, but I suppose my favorite photo is always the next one. At least, that’s the goal. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so I like to let others decide which image is best for them. If I had to choose, I’d say my shot of a Snowy Owl during a heavy snowstorm at Island Beach State Park. It’s special to me because it was my only photo ever shared by National Geographic. As for sports photos, my favorite changes often. Typically, it’s not even an action shot but rather something behind the scenes, or a moment of celebration. Currently, it’s an image of Jason Larned, a recent graduate, and the Manasquan Boys Basketball team celebrating their Central Jersey Group 2 Championship.
Morgan Mechler is a graduate of Manasquan High School and currently an undergrad at the University of Miami.
Top: Victory on the Manasquan football field. Photo by Sean Dettlinger.
Middle: Matthew Trengrove. Photo by Jack Trengrove.
Bottom: Manasquan girls’ soccer. Photo by Mike Cassella.
Do you have any advice for someone starting their photography journey?
TRENGROVE: Good equipment is important, but it doesn’t have to be brand new. Many photo stores sell used equipment that works just as well. I also found YouTube videos on photography to be incredibly helpful for learning about my cameras and sports settings. Remember, be prepared to spend as much time, if not more, editing your photos as you did taking them. Photo editing is time-consuming, but absolutely necessary to bring out the best in your shots.
DETTLINGER: Just get out there and do it. With the technology of digital cameras, you can easily delete any photos that don’t come out well. If you’re interested in taking photos at the games, just come to the field and start snapping away. Don’t worry about getting the perfect shot every time; you’ll be contributing to the excitement and the memories of the game. I consider myself to still be learning, and I am honored to be mentioned in an article alongside the great Jersey Mike and Jack Trengrove. I appreciate both of them for their expertise and knowledge, which have been invaluable to me on this journey.
CASSELLA: Bring a camera with you everywhere. Shoot anything and everything, but focus on what truly interests you. When you’re photographing something you’re passionate about, it will naturally drive you to learn more, practice more, and take more shots. Photography, like anything else, improves with practice. So, keep shooting, and you’ll see your skills grow over time.
Follow Jack Trengrove, Sean Dettlinger and Mike Cassella on Instagram! @manasquanfootballclub @seandett @jerseymike @jerseymike_sports
Left: Manasquan-Brielle Little League. Photo by Mike Cassella.
Top: Joey Dettlinger makes the catch. Photo by Sean Dettlinger. Middle: Wrestling under the lights. Photo by Jack Trengrove.
Bottom: From left to right, Jack Trengrove, Mike Cassella, Sean Dettlinger.
What Your Coffee Says About You
Exploring the ancient art of Turkish coffee reading.
Do you believe in fortune-telling? Do you ever read your horoscope? Can someone or something really predict your future? Fortunes are told in many ways: Cracking open a fortune cookie, having your palm read, drawing tarot cards, following your astrological sign or even gazing into a crystal ball. Some say that predicting the future is a skill passed down through generations, rooted in ancient wisdom.
For Manasquan’s Marlene Nice, the secrets can be found in a cup of coffee. Nice has immersed herself in the centuries-old art of Turkish coffee reading and is now sharing these unique talents with our community. Her readings
BY MOLLY MECHLER
offer a glimpse into the mystical and ancient tradition of interpreting symbols left behind by coffee grounds, sparking curiosity and conversation among those seeking insight into their lives.
As United States Diplomats, Nice and her husband Dennis spent years traveling the globe, embracing new languages and cultures with each assignment. “I speak eight different languages,” says Nice. “As soon as we learned of a new posting, I would dive into learning the language, determined to communicate with the locals and learn their culture.”
In 1999, while on their first assignment in Ankara, Turkey, Nice discovered and developed a passion for Turkish coffee
reading. While her husband was at work, she spent many hours conversing with her office’s staff, as well as locals from nearby shops and markets. Each afternoon, they would gather for coffee in the gardens, where Nice would watch and listen as they read the grounds left at the bottom of their cups, interpreting the symbols to reveal insights or advice.
“At first, I was just a spectator,” says Nice. “But over time, I learned the meanings behind the symbols and slowly started doing readings myself.” Eventually, the art of coffee reading became a way for Nice to connect with her community, form lasting friendships and pass the time of her assignment in a meaningful way.
Photographs by M+B Staff
Marlene Nice at a September coffee reading event.
Exploring the Grounds Turkish coffee readings fall under the category of tasseography, the method of interpreting patterns in tea leaves, coffee grounds or wine sediments. The coffee that Nice uses for this ritual was brought back to the United States from her time spent living in Turkey, and from visits with her children, who still live overseas. The coffee is extremely fine, ground to an almost powder-like consistency.
The ritual involves very specific steps. The coffee is prepared and poured into a tiny white porcelain cup using a Turkish coffee pot. A practitioner drinks their coffee as usual, always sipping from the same side. When only a few drops remain, he or she carefully turns the cup over onto the saucer. Before placing it back on the table, the practitioner
makes a wish or sets an intention. As the cup cools, the grounds settle, and the secrets appear. After a few minutes, the cup is turned over, and the symbols, numbers and images tell a story.
Over the years, Nice honed her skills and began offering readings to her friends. Now retired and settled back in our community, she shares this ancient tradition with locals, lately at events held at Manasquan’s WonderLand + Sea. The monthly events have been a huge success and regularly sell out.
“I am not a psychic and don’t claim to be. My readings are not about predicting the future with any certainty,” Nice explains. “They’re about helping people find meaning in the patterns of their lives and drawing connections between the past, present and possibly the future.”
WonderLand + Sea hosts the monthly coffee readings, which have been regularly sold out.
The Shapes Left Behind
In September, I had the pleasure of attending one of Ms. Nice’s coffee reading events, and it was enjoyable from the moment I arrived. In person, Nice is warm and welcoming, and effortlessly puts a participant at ease. She’s experienced and knowledgeable in her craft, as well as intelligent and highly-educated. Her wisdom creates an intimate and inviting atmosphere.
Once our coffee was prepared, we sat and sipped it together. We engaged in conversation about her fascinating life experiences. She shared stories of her family, her travels, and the many countries and cultures she has encountered. She spoke of beaches and horseback riding in Uruguay. She found Vienna beautiful, and was pleasantly surprised by how much she enjoyed living there. Her favorite country was Italy, and living there for four wonderful years was a dream come true.
We discussed the representations of each symbol, number and pattern and the meanings behind each sign. For example, lines around the cup represent life goals or a trip. A bird brings good news, a whale brings
good fortune and a ladder can mean a promotion in your future.
When it came time to read my coffee grounds, we gently turned my cup over, allowing the little bit of remaining liquid to drain. Nice carefully examined the shapes left behind and clearly explained each symbol. Her passion for the art was evident in every word. She asked thoughtful questions, offered insights and made “predictions” based on what the cup revealed. However, the experience wasn’t just about predictions; it was a reflective process that invited me to explore my past, present and future possibilities from new perspectives.
Ms. Nice hosts a monthly Turkish Coffee Reading event at WonderLand + Sea, on Main Street in Manasquan. For more information, follow @ wonderlandsea_manasquan on social media. Or to arrange a Turkish Coffee reading party of your own, contact Marlene Nice at marnice5@ yahoo.com .
Molly Mechler is a dedicated mother, seasoned educator, avid reader, recreational runner, thrifty shopper and local beach lover infused with a visionary mind for writing.
SEA FOR YOURSELF
WonderLand + Sea is a unique boutique created by Faye and Alice, two friends who love dogs, tea and the angels they keep around their store. Together, they have created a fun retail experience filled with unique items crafted by local artists and vendors of all ages.
In addition to retail, Alice and Faye use their space to host workshops, gatherings and events. Their calendar consists of a multitude of events, ranging from Marlene Nice’s Turkish coffee readings to crafting, painting, meditation and even cookie decorating. To find out what exciting events they have planned for next month, follow them on social media or their website, wonderlandsea.com.
Hope and Healing: “Big” Strides in Mental Health
Much has been written about the alarming rise in anxiety and depression, especially in young people. But here’s the good news: Real solutions are here.
BY
M+B STAFF
When Leo was just 8 years old, he and his mother Catherine moved from New York City to the Jersey Shore. Leo’s father was incarcerated. Catherine had taken a new job, and was eager to give Leo a fresh start, in the relatively peaceful suburbs of Monmouth County.
But Leo is not exactly the type of child for whom change comes easily. In many ways, he’s bright and mature beyond his years, but socially, he’s always been reticent to assimilate with his peers. “Ever since he was little, he would walk right up to grown-ups and start conversations, even with strangers,” says Catherine. “But he was afraid to talk to kids his own age.”
This disconnect grew more significant after their move to New Jersey. Of course, it’s always intimidating to be the new kid, but Leo presented an especially difficult challenge for his teachers. His tests revealed an exceptional intelligence level, so much so that he was eligible to skip ahead a grade. But behaviorally, he was lacking in ordinary social skills. Like a lot of modern kids, he spent plenty of time online—and in Leo’s case, his preoccupation with screen time had begun to seem unhealthy.
Then came 2020, a year of lockdowns
and school closures. Students across New Jersey and around the world were relegated to virtual learning. Even relatively well-adjusted students grappled with the angst and isolation of so-called social distancing. For children like Leo, who were already struggling socially, the lockdowns were tragically detrimental. Catherine had already been fighting to limit her son’s screen time; now all of his classes were happening on digital windows.
When his school finally re-opened its doors in the fall of 2021, Leo was ill prepared to return. At only 10 years old, he was battling severe anxiety and depression. He spoke about himself with increasing negativity, saying thinks like “I suck” and “I’m stupid” with alarming regularity. At school, he was unable to form relationships; his best friends were people he knew only as screen names in online games.
As Leo’s motivation and confidence deteriorated, Catherine became determined to find new solutions. In 2021, she took two vital steps forward: She enrolled Leo in talk therapy, and simultaneously applied him to be a “Little” with Big Brothers Big Sisters of
Coastal and Northern NJ. Leo took to both his new therapist and his new “Big Brother,” with some initial hesitation.
But over the past three years, by almost all accounts, Leo’s mental health has dramatically improved. Now 13 years old, he no longer engages in negative self-talk. He’s become far more comfortable at socializing with his peers. He still pesters his mother for screen time but spends more time outdoors. He looks forward to outings with his “Big,” and by his own admission, sees the value in therapy. “Sometimes therapy is boring,” says Leo. “But it’s really good to have somebody to talk to.”
From left to right: “Big” Michael and “Little” Robert, photographed in Asbury Park.
Life Can be Transformed
Leo and his “Big” get together two or three times a month. During the summer months, they often ride bikes or go to the beach. During the winter months, they go the gym, play indoor mini golf and visit indoor trampoline parks. In June of this year, his Big Brother brought Leo to see his first concert, when his favorite artist played at the Stony Pony Summer Stage. “That day was the best surprise ever,” says Leo. “It was the best day of my life.”
The Big Brothers movement began in 1904 in New York City. By 1916, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America had already spread to 96 cities across the country. Today, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Coastal and Northern New Jersey
(BBBSCNNJ) operates across 10 counties in New Jersey, providing holistic support and supervision to “Bigs,” “Littles,” and their family members. Each match is carefully supported by a professional case management team. Outings between matches can be as simple and as inexpensive as a hike or a game of catch. But the impacts on a young person’s mental health are practically immeasurable.
“For nearly 15 years, I have seen that mentorship and positive mental health go hand in hand for our youth,” says Charleen Cucci, Associate Director of Development for BBBSCNNJ. “Mentoring helps young people develop higher aspirations, achieve educational success, improve their self-confidence, feel more secure in their
relationships and avoid behaviors that put their future at risk. I have seen so many children and teens achieve great things with a mentor by their side.”
“Mentorship is proven to have a direct and positive impact on mental health,” says William Salcedo, Executive Director for BBBSCNNJ. “We have witnessed countless stories of young people who come to us struggling with mental health or social acceptance, and after one year, or even a few months, their outlook improves, grades and school attendance get better, relationships with family and friends are stronger... The list goes on. It’s remarkable to see that a child’s life can be transformed with just a little of someone’s time and attention,” he says.
We Will Never Turn Anybody Away.”
On the surface, Jersey Shore communities like Manasquan and Brielle are peaceful and prosperous. To look across a beach full of sunbathers or a park full of energetic kids can make it hard to imagine that so many families struggle with mental unrest. Unfortunately, no community is immune from tragedy, and sometimes even the happiest surfaces belie deep and painful struggles.
The Samaritan Center at the Jersey Shore was incorporated in 2010, founded by a group of parents, professionals and community members, in direct response to a growing mental health crisis. Over the past 14 years, the Samaritan Center has provided professional counseling services to individuals, couples and families. For young people battling anxiety, depression or scholastic pressure, the Center offers invaluable support.
“Mental health is a complex issue with complex factors,” says Carolann Cavaiola, MA, LCADC, who has been the executive director of the Samaritan Center since 2015. “Social media and online life can be really anxiety-provoking. The lockdown and that lack of connectedness definitely contributed. For any kid who had even the beginning of a school phobia, the lockdown really took hold.”
As the COVID-19 pandemic amplified the need for public health services, it also found a significant number of therapists retiring or leaving the field. Even as awareness around mental health has grown, there remains a growing imbalance between the demand for therapy and the availability of professionals.
Through it all, the Samaritan Center resolves to treat everybody who calls or walks through their doors. Their licensed counselors work with both short-term and long-term needs, offering services that address trauma, loss and grief, drug and alcohol dependency, relationship and family troubles and other difficult issues.
“We strive to place everybody who calls us, as long as they’re appropriate for us,” says Cavaiola. “And we want to be sure that nobody has to go without therapy, regardless of what they can afford. We’ll work with your insurance policy, but we’ll never turn anybody away based on their inability to pay.”
For anybody who is curious about seeking counseling, but uncertain about where to begin, The Samaritan Center offers a private and stress-free environment. “This is a very low-stress way to dip your toe into the water,” says Cavaiola. “Therapy doesn’t solve your problems, but it always offers hope, and an opportunity to lessen your pain.”
*For the sake of privacy, pseudonyms have been used for Leo and Catherine’s participation in this story.
From top left: The Samaritan Center, located at 36 South St.in Manasquan. Above center: “Big” Kathy and “Little” Lu. Above: “Big” Bill and “Little” Jayden, at a golf outing.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
Mental health, like physical health, isn’t a box that can be checked yes or no. It’s a lifelong process, unique to everybody. Reach out to one of these great organizations today, and be part of the positive change
Interested in being a “Big?” Learn more at mentornj.org. The application process is free and easy to follow. “Bigs” must be 19 years old, with a valid driver’s license. Once accepted, the BBBS staff will work with you to find an ideal match. The commitment is flexible and undemanding; outings between Bigs and Littles generally occur over a few hours, twice a month.
Know somebody who could be a “Little?” Enroll or refer a child at mentornj.org. Children age 6 and over are eligible to be matched with a responsible adult mentor. Once matched, Bigs and Littles are supported by qualified Case Managers.
Thinking about therapy? No matter who you are, how old you are, or where you’re from, everybody can benefit from talk therapy. The Samaritan Center at the Jersey Shore is dedicated to serving individuals, couples and families from all beliefs and backgrounds. Visit njsamaritan.org or call 732-223-HOPE (4673) and connect with a qualified counselor today.
Need to talk? The Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide was founded in Monmouth County in 2005 and has spent the past two decades saving lives and raising awareness. If you or someone you know are in crisis, call 988 to speak to a caring professional, or get involved at www.sptsusa.org.
Give back! Big Brothers Big Sisters and The Samaritan Center are made possible in part through generous financial donations. Your generosity helps train and support the professionals who are brightening the futures of an entire generation.
Above center: “Little” Megan and “Big” Jenica, at a BBBS event. Above right: “Big” David and “Little” Dominic, at a BBBS event. Above: “Little” Laila and “Big” Jonnelle, at a BBBS event.
Coldwell Banker Realty
Susan Bastardo Realtor Associate, SRES C: 732.245.5848 | NJShoreEstates.com
Experience matters! Whether listing or buying, Susan’s previous banking experience, talent for staging, and strong communication skills provide a smooth, stress-free transaction. A Monmouth County resident for 35 years, Susan is dedicated to her community and clients. Susan will keep you informed every step of the way. Her SRES designation, Five Star Award, NJR Distinguished Sales Award, & CB’s Int’l President’s Circle Award rank Susan in the top 7% of all Coldwell Agents worldwide. Susan loves helping people achieve their real estate goals.
Lake Office: 732.449.2777 1122 Third Ave., Spring Lake, NJ 07762 susan.bastardo@cbmoves.com 2023 Client Testimonial- ”You’re
Mindset First
Building health in the next generation.
BY MEGHAN SCHULTZEL
‘Tis the season of thankfulness. But how do we get our kids to truly embrace gratitude? In today’s all-toomodern world, children face more pressure than ever, while having less time to focus on their own feelings— let alone gratitude. But if gratitude begins with mindfulness, then it’s our job as parents to help nurture the next generation into mindful beings, instead of anxious and distracted ones.
On that note, we’re excited to check in with Maura Bradley, because
mindfulness is most definitely an area of her expertise. Bradley is the owner and founder of Bee You Yoga, LLC, and previously the owner of Manasquan’s Bee You Kids Yoga Studio. She is a 95-hour registered children’s yoga teacher, as well as a 200-hour registered yoga teacher with Yoga Alliance. In 2018, she completed a 300-hour Mindful Schools training program, becoming a Certified Mindfulness Instructor.
Over the years, Bradley has taught
yoga and mindfulness to thousands of children and adults in weekly classes, schools, summer camps and professional development workshops. She has also received national recognition for her children’s book, Mindfulness for Kids in 10 Minutes a Day, which is available on Amazon.
Do you Mind?
In September, Manasquan Recreation hosted Bradley’s Back to School Workshop. As soon as I attended this
event, I knew I had to share her work with our readers.
“Children face so much uncertainty and so many emotions during back-toschool time,” says Bradley. “I wanted to offer techniques to help ground them and bring them back into themselves.” Her program for 9- to 12-year-olds incorporated yoga, mindfulness, breathing techniques and tools that can be used in a classroom setting, many of which are also outlined in her book.
In a world where we are pulled in different directions, overstimulated by electronics, and pressured by social expectations, the ability to slow down and be present with our own feelings is becoming a lost art. This skill can have a powerful and positive effect for people of any age, but perhaps most crucially
for our youth. And yes, mindfulness is certainly considered a skill: It requires practice and can be improved with time and commitment.
Who wouldn’t want to equip their child with the calm focus and confidence that comes from these simple tools and practices? You might even notice a big difference in their sense of gratitude—or, at the very least, some peace of mind.
This fall, bring the family and join Maura Bradley for a Yoga and Mindfulness weekly class for 9- to 12-year-olds. The class runs through December, in cooperation with Manasquan Recreation. Keep an eye on her Instagram, @beeyou_kidsyoga, and follow Manasquan Recreation for her upcoming winter offerings.
Want to be featured in an upcoming Wellness Watch? Have a fitness or wellness event that you’d like featured? Reach out to Meghan.schultzel@gmail.com
WELLNESS WATCH NOVEMBER EVENTS
When: Wednesdays in November, 6 a.m.
What: A Balanced Body Personal Training
Where: Manasquan High School Field House Register: Manasquan Community Pass
When: Various November dates, 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.
What: Pilates with Theresa Karron
Where: Manasquan Senior Center and St. Denis Register: Manasquan Community Pass, or contact Theresa at (914) 960 9214
When: November 1
What: Autism MVP Walk Where: Manasquan Boardwalk Register: autismmvp.org
When: November 16
What: River Rock ‘N Run
Where: River Rock Restaurant and Marina Register: runsignup.com
When: November 16
What: Thanks4Giving Turkey Dash 5k and Turkey Splash
Where: Asbury Park Register: thx4giving.org
When: November 23
What: Manasquan Turkey Trot, 1 or 5 mile Where: Manasquan Little League Baseball Field Register: runsignup.com
START TRAINING NOW:
When: December 1
What: JSRC Navesink Challenge 12K & 5K Where: Middletown Register: runsignup.com
When: December 7
What: Asbury Park Santa Run
Where: Asbury Park Register: apsantarun.com
When: December 31
What: JSRC New Year’s Eve 2 Mile
Twilight Fun Run/Walk and Party
Where: Leggett’s, Manasquan Register: runsignup.com
BOOK NOOK
Books to be Thankful for
This November, in honor of National Gratitude Month, the staff at BookTowne highlights books that have made a positive impact on our lives.
BY LEIGH MALLIN
“MAN’S SEARCH FOR MEANING”
by Viktor E. Frankl
When asked about a book that she is thankful for, this is the title that immediately comes to mind for staff member Rita. First published in 1946, “Man’s Search for Meaning” chronicles the author’s experiences in a Nazi concentration camp. Even after living through the unbearable, Frankl devoted the rest of his life to helping others. An inspiring read if ever there was one.
“CHARLOTTE’S WEB”
by E.B. White
We all know this beloved classic about a young and naive pig who comes of age alongside a kind and gentle spider. This is the first book that made BookTowne owner Peter cry, and it began his love of stories that tug on a reader’s heartstrings. “You have been my friend. That in itself is a tremendous thing.”
“THIS IS HOW IT ALWAYS IS” by
Laurie Frankel
Staff member Stacey selected this truly thought provoking novel, about the family of a child who pushes the boundaries of gender norms. Frankel deftly articulates both sides of the debate around how to
love and parent through this challenging issue. Timely, illuminating, heartwarming and heart wrenching, this story captures the joy and complexity of parenting with both humor and gravity.
“MANDY” by Julie Andrews
Given to her by her granddad in 1971, a treasured copy of “Mandy” still sits on staff member Susan’s bookshelf. Mandy is a young orphan who discovers a hidden cottage on the property near her orphanage. Longing for a home of her own, she sneaks away whenever she can find time to tend and clean the tiny house. But soon, she must figure out how to keep the cottage a secret, even at risk to herself. Mandy has always been one of Susan’s favorite characters, and the story taught her at a young age that bravery, determination and imagination can help transform our lives, even when change seems impossible.
“THE HAPPIEST MAN ON EARTH” by Eddie Jaku
Staff member Rick’s selection was written by a 101-year-old Holocaust survivor who suffered the unimaginable. He was the only survivor in his family, yet still
proclaimed to be the happiest man on earth for simply having his life. After all he endured, Jaku was still able to find goodness in the world around him. If a Holocaust survivor can find happiness and gratitude, what does that say about any of us who choose to hate? Read this book!
“DEVOTIONS” by Mary Oliver
This anthology of Mary Oliver’s decadesspanning poetic career sits on my bedside table. I pick it up at random moments throughout the day and immediately feel better about life. Oliver’s verse is beautiful and life-affirming. “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” I am so happy this book exists.
On November 16, BookTowne will host our third annual Read-a-Thon. All booksellers will read through the night to raise funds for The Ocean is Female, a local nonprofit organization that supports and empowers survivors of abuse and/or domestic violence. We are so excited and would love your support! To donate, visit our website booktowne.com and click the “Read-a-Thon” link! We are so grateful for the support of our Manasquan + Brielle community!
Leigh Mallin is a bookseller at BookTowne.
Reach Manasquan +
kevin@duffyfinancialplanning.com
Thanks again to all three of the photographers who participated in this month’s cover story. To ring in the start of a new basketball season, here’s a shot selected by “Jersey Mike” Cassella as one of his own personal recent favorites: Jason Larned (and a few close friends) celebrating last year’s Central Jersey Group 2 Championship. This basketball season, catch all of the best action shots by following @jerseymike_sports.
Have a great image for Photo Op? Submit your high-resolution shot to Chris.Baldi@manasquan-brielle.com.
