Manasquan & Brielle October 2023

Manasquan +Brielle

LITTLE HEARTS SUPPORTING BABIES WITH HEART DEFECTS

EXPERT TIPS FOR HEALTHIER PETS

BRIELLE’S FIREHOUSE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

The Power of Dance

#1 Agent in Manasquan, and #1 Agent in Brielle!

Greg Rice has been the top-selling Realtor in both Manasquan and Brielle for the past 15 YEARS! From 2008 - 2022, Greg closed more residential real estate than any other agent at any other brokerage in each Manasquan and Brielle!* He is recognized through multiple awards and designations as one of the top real estate agents in the entire United States and was recently ranked #27 in all of N.J. (over 55,000 agents) by Newsweek Magazine's "America's Best Realtors." Contact Greg today to discover for yourself what separates him from other agents and why he is the top-selling agent in Manasquan and Brielle. He is always available for a free, discreet, and confidential consultation on what your home could be worth in this market.

"...We could not be more pleased with this process from start to finish. Greg is friendly, professional, hardworking and smart. His marketing approach was first class, his negotiating skills fantastic. There was no request he could not handle. We recommend him without reservations...."

- McManus Family, Seller, Manasquan

...In my life, I have hired four real estate agents. Greg Rice is, by a very wide margin, the best. His attention to you and overall customer service is extraordinary.I can not say enough good things.

- L. Matino, Buyer, Manasquan

"....My wife and I interviewed numerous realtors to help us sell our Brielle home, and it was clear to us w ithin a few minutes of meeting Greg that he would be our choice...Greg's preparation, presentation materials, knowledge of the local market, and his contagious enthusiasm, and professionalism stood out to us. My wife and I can not recommend Greg highly enough...."

- Tim Conway, Seller, Brielle

Just Some of Greg's Recent Sales

Makeup:

Giving Back in Extraordinary Ways

mission in mind when she took over her dance studio, Ocean Dance Force, in 2013: giving every aspiring dancer a chance to shine. Inside you’ll learn about her inspiration and how she is impacting the future of dance in Manasquan.

Congenital heart disease (CHD) currently affects 1 out of 120 babies born each year in the United States. Having a “heart baby,” mom Kristina Harm knows firsthand what it’s like to have your newborn baby whisked off for surgery immediately after birth. Enter Big Hearts to Little Hearts, an organization dedicated to raising money to help fund CHD research studies at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia for both little heart warriors and big heart warriors. Find out more about this amazing nonprofit organization in this month’s issue.

In honor of Fire Prevention

Editor & Publisher

Tracy Naimo

Group Publisher

Jodi Bruker

Art Director

Sue Park

Copy Editor

Nancy Fass

Writers

Laurie Adamkiewicz

Kristina Harm

Morgan Mechler Photographer

Theresa Artigas

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

Advertising Services Director

Jacquelynn Fischer

Operations Director

Fall brings about many changes both in nature and in life. It’s a lovely time when trees trade their lavish green leaves for fresh red and yellow ones, and we cycle back to the recognizable in preparation for winter. One of the most beautiful facets of fall is that it kicks off the season of giving. This issue of Manasquan + Brielle highlights a variety of community organizations giving back in extraordinary ways.

Sheryl Guerrero had a simple

Month, we profile Brielle’s Fire Company No. 1 and its iconic firehouse, along with the many fun events the firefighters support for Brielle residents of all ages.

In what ways do you impact the lives of others? I would love to hear about it. Please reach out to me at tracy.naimo@ wainscotmedia.com.

Tracy Naimo Publisher

Catherine Rosario

Production Designer

Chris Ferrante

Print Production Manager

Fern Meshulam

Advertising Production Associate

Griff Dowden

Manasquan

Around Town

BRIELLE DAY 10K: RESIDENT RACE RESULTS

The 42nd annual Brielle Day 10K race sprang into action on September 9. Great job by all the participants and congratulations to the winners, especially our Manasquan and Brielle residents! Name

Daniel Brennan Male 01–14 Manasquan 2nd

Joseph DeFeo Male 20–29 Brielle 1st

Eric Dzenis Manasquan 5th

Kirsten Barnes Female 20–29 Brielle 3rd

Chris Buchholz Male 30-39 Brielle 4th

Abigail Robinson Female 30-39 Manasquan 3rd

Tim Murphy Male 40-49 Brielle 2nd

Jon Scott Brielle 4th

Nick Bautista Manasquan 5th

Mercedes Wall Female 40-49 Brielle 1st

Kate Hoppe Brielle 4th

Kevin Cull Male 50–59 Brielle 3rd

Arturo Pardavila Manasquan 4th

Tricia Callahan Female 50–59 Brielle 3rd

Jennifer Hirsch Brielle 5th

Kathleen Conte Female 60–69 Brielle 3rd

Rosemarie Mellody Female 70–99 Manasquan 3rd

SURF (ART) IS UP!

Manasquan Chamber of Commerce annual Surfboard Art Contest winners:

3RD PLACE: Ed Henessey for “Aerial View of the Inlet”

1ST PLACE: Madeline and Joseph Jakovcic for “Little Rainbow Fish”

2ND PLACE: The Syby Family for “All Roads Lead to Manasquan”

Don’t Hide in the Shade Perfecting the Art of Body Sculpting for Over 14 Years

Don’t Hide in the Shade

What is AVÉLI™?

Our

Our revolutionary laser lipolysis treatment literally melts away fat in trouble areas. The results last longer than dieting or exercise and since the treatment is minimally invasive, you’ll be in our office one day and our turning heads in no time. This works as a permanent solution to remove unwanted fat & tighten skin. It is the most effective minimally invasive treatment possible. Our New jersey licensed physicians are available for free consultations in person or by virtual zoom.

AVÉLI™ is a minimally invasive procedure designed to target and release septa underneath the skin causing a cellulite dimple. The procedure is performed during a single in-office visit and allows your provider to see and confirm in real-time that they are releasing the culprit, septa - delivering long-lasting, visibly smoother skin in the treatment area with little to no downtime.

expert physicians are accredited by the American Association of Ambulatory Surgical Facilities (AAASF).

Treatment areas marked in white outlines. Photos not retouched. After photo taken 1 year post-procedure. Individual results will vary.

Around Town

TRIATHLETES HAVE MORE FUN!

HONORING OUR VETERANS

The Brielle Public Library will be holding a veterans appreciation community event November 2 from 5 to 7 p.m. The library is asking for library patrons who are veterans to send photos of themselves when they served. The photos are being collected for a slideshow.

Jersey Shore Triathlon Club volunteers at IRONMAN 70.3 Atlantic City

The Jersey Shore Triathlon Club (JSTC), based out of Brielle Cyclery, is a group of passionate athletes dedicated to promoting the sport in the Jersey Shore area. The club offers a variety of group swims, bike rides, clinics and social events for its members. For more information, visit www.jerseyshoretriclub.com or find us on Facebook. The JSTC is always looking for new members—come join the fun!

The Jersey Shore Triathlon Club (JSTC), based out of Brielle Cyclery, is a group of passionate athletes dedicated to promoting the sport in the Jersey Shore area. The club offers a variety of group swims, bike rides, clinics, and social events for its members.

For more information, visit jerseyshoretriclub.com or find us on Facebook. come join the fun!

STOMP

Carolyn Barrale [JSTC VP] race finisher.

THE MONSTER

Don your Halloween costume and come run to help raise funds for local cancer patients. This scenic almost4-mile course starts on the north end of the Manasquan boardwalk, known by locals as “Sea Watch” (named for the historic lifeguard station at the corner of 1st and Ocean Avenues). After a full mile of ocean views along the boardwalk, runners will find themselves hugging the historic Manasquan Inlet with full views of the river. The course turns inland and makes its way toward the heart of this beautiful, picturesque town. Miles two and three will have the runners circling Mallard Park and running along the inlet waterways passing lovely Glimmer Glass Harbor. Turning away from the harbor, runners will find themselves in the heart of this Norman Rockwell-like town, finishing at historic Leggetts Sand Bar, a Manasquan staple since 1935. If four miles is just too much, we have a 2-mile walk/run course (start and finish are the same as the run course). Either way, enjoy the after-party for racers. Costumes encouraged; prizes will be given. Race takes place October 21, with an 11 a.m. start.

Expert Tips for Healthier Pets

A local veterinarian answers our questions about how to keep pets happy and maximize their health.

BY TRACY NAIMO

INTERVIEW WITH GABE CAPODANNO

In honor of World Animal and Pet Day on October 4, we spoke with Manasquan resident and local vet Gabe Capodanno of Allenwood Animal Hospital.

What motivated you to pursue a career as a veterinarian?

My love for animals and science. Growing up I spent a great deal of my free time raising and caring for a variety of animals. The human-animal bond was something that always amazed me. It felt natural for me to choose a career that would help animals to live a longer and healthier life.

Outside of work, what are your passions?

Spending time with my family—my wife, Gina, and our two children, Kate and Kyle—and surfing! I also enjoy fishing, boating and hiking.

What are some simple things pet owners can do at home to keep their pets healthy?

A healthy diet and lots of exercise are the two most important things for your pet’s physical and mental health. Another important but often difficult habit to establish is brushing your dog’s teeth.

What are the most common health problems for pets?

Obesity, dental disease and osteoarthritis are three of the most common health problems we see on a daily basis.

Can anything be done to reduce a pet’s risk of developing cancer?

Feed your pet a healthy diet that is rich in antioxidants and keep your pet active. Most cancers in dogs have a genetic component. Therefore, if you decide on a pure-breed dog, make sure you choose a responsible and reputable breeder.

What are the signs and symptoms of cancer in pets?

Sudden weight loss, loss of muscle along the spine, loss of appetite and drinking and urinating more than usual.

What are some things people can do to make sure their pets have a good quality of life as they get older?

Keeping your pet fit and in good body condition when they are young will set them up to be healthier and have less joint disease as they get older. Another important factor is maintaining their oral health so that they have less dental disease later in life.

What are some alternatives to traditional medical treatments that you recommend?

For pets that deal with chronic pain, cancer and many other medical problems, there are options available that can complement medical treatment or in some cases replace it altogether. Acupuncture, cold laser therapy and herbal supplements are all options available from veterinarians trained in this practice. Fortunately for us, one of our veterinarians is trained in this holistic approach.

Is there anything people should avoid giving their pets?

Avoid giving dogs grapes as they can be harmful to their kidneys. Also, avoid giving them chocolate as that can cause digestive upset and in severe cases, seizures. Don’t give dogs and cats onions or onion powder as this can cause anemia. Do not allow cats to play with string or yarn as accidental ingestion is common and can cause intestinal obstruction.

What advice can you share about feeding pets the right diet?

Feeding your pet the right diet involves purchasing a food brand you can trust. Some of the larger pet food companies have done extensive research and feeding trials to scientifically prove that their formulas are healthy for your pet. If your pet has a shiny coat, lots of energy and regular potty habits, it’s likely your food choice is appropriate.

How important is preventive care?

For dogs in particular, heartworm prevention, which also prevents intestinal parasites, is extremely important to maintaining their health and well-being. For dogs and those cats that spend time outside, flea and tick prevention is also extremely important to use consistently.

What are your favorite animals to work with?

My favorites are dogs and cats.

Do you have any pets, and, if so, what is an absolute must for your pets?

I have a golden retriever named Nico. He loves walks and spending time outside. He also loves to go on boat rides and swim whenever possible. We try to involve him in as many family activities as possible.

Tracy Naimo is the publisher of Manasquan + Brielle magazine.

Veterinarian Gabe Capodanno is a passionate surfer. HIs dog, Nico, loves getting out on the water, too.

The Heart of Brielle

Fire Company No. 1 and its firehouse are central to the community in countless ways.

BY MORGAN MECHLER

Everyone knows not all heroes wear capes. The volunteer members of Brielle Fire Company No. 1, housed at the Brielle firehouse, are thought of as hardworking and dedicated local hometown heroes.

Since its establishment in 1910, the firehouse has been a vital part of keeping town spirit and appreciation alive in Brielle. Other than ensuring the borough’s safety, the firefighters and fire police create various opportunities for town-wide bonding events packed with fun activities for Brielle residents of all ages.

Before Brielle’s formation in 1919, the firehouse provided services for the

southern half of Wall Township with its sister firehouse, West Belmar.

Although today they operate with advanced technology and equipment, in earlier days, the firefighters would race to local emergencies with horses and steam engines.

For years, the firehouse has and will continue to provide aid for neighboring towns if and when needed. The firefighters will even travel to neighboring counties to help combat emergencies and ultimately help save lives.

The firehouse is currently made up of about forty firefighters and fifteen fire police. The fire police help calls

run smoothly by assisting with traffic during emergencies.

Teaching the Next Generation Brielle Fire Company No. 1 has a program for junior members who are 16 years of age or older. This program offers state-of-the-art training via the Monmouth County Fire Academy. Junior members are supplied with all the equipment they need to perform firefighting and fire police duties safely and effectively.

Most junior members go on to join the fire academy when they turn 18 and then pursue firefighting careers when they graduate.

Wearing Many Hats

Stephen Speicher, a two-time previous chief and current trustee, believes the firehouse is much more important to the community than what meets the eye. Speicher has been a part of the firehouse since 1982.

“We provide fire services to the town, of course, but we also help a lot of community organizations with events,” he says. Some of these community events include: the derby at the end of September, the Haunted Hayride in October and Santa Claus Around Town at Christmas. “Every

piece of equipment at these events is from the firehouse and all of the Santas are fire company volunteers.”

Community Impact

Additionally, the fire company gives out donations to Brielle school every year for scholarships and lends the building over to the cub scouts as a place for their meetings. Their efforts to enhance the community are not left unnoticed and their legacy has remained intact for more than 200 years.

Clearly, the Brielle firehouse’s impact stretches farther than just

putting out fires and keeping the town safe. It is so much more than just a building. The firehouse is a place where members, town residents and locals from neighboring communities come together whether for training, a club meeting or just a place to hang out. The building itself may not be located in the center of town, but to all of its residents, the firehouse is the heart of Brielle.

“We provide fire services to the town, of course, but we also help a lot of community organizations with events.”

- Stephen Speicher, trustee,

Brielle Fire Company

No. 1

Morgan Mechler is a senior at Manasquan High School (MHS) and co-editor of The Blue & Gray, the MHS student newspaper. When she is not in school, she enjoys spending time at the beach or with her puppy.

HAUNTED

HAYRIDE— GET YOUR TICKETS!

One of the firehouse’s most popular events, the annual Haunted HayRide, began in 2000 and has grown to become a favorite tradition for families in Brielle and neighboring towns. This Halloween, the dates of the hayride are October 27 and 28, with a rain date of October 29. Tickets will be on sale October 16 and 25 at the firehouse. The rides start as early as 5:30 p.m. for the younger children to enjoy. However, the event continues as the sun goes down and the moon creeps up when the ghosts and goblins come out to scare.

“We do it for a couple of nights and make a couple of dollars, but it is more of an event to give back to the community and to keep the local youth occupied. We want everyone to enjoy what the town has to offer,” says Speicher. Tickets for this spooky experience have sold out in past years and are predicted to sell out again so make sure to get yours before it’s too late!

“Brielle is full of many communitybased traditions,” says Brielle Police Captain and community member, Mike Mechler, “but the residents look forward to nothing more than the annual Scream Acres Haunted Hayride. It is a weekend of community-filled celebrations along the hayride route where the townwide spirit and the dedication of the volunteer Brielle Fire Department are on full display. It is a must-see event for those living locally.”

The Power of Dance

How Ocean Dance Force is transforming young lives.

BY TRACY NAIMO

Dance has the power to transform lives, instill confidence and ignite dreams. In the heart of downtown Manasquan, Ocean Dance Force (ODF) stands as a pillar of inspiration, empowering the next generation of dancers to reach new heights.

Founded in 1994 and under the dedicated ownership of its current proprietor since 2013, ODF has not only nurtured young talent but also provided invaluable opportunities for students to showcase their skills and pursue professional careers in

dance. With a legacy rooted in the community and a commitment to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment, ODF has become a haven for dancers of all ages, igniting their ambition and empowering them with confidence for life.

The story of ODF begins with the current owner’s personal journey.

Growing up in Brielle, Sheryl Guerrero, a 2001 graduate of Manasquan High School, experienced the transformative power of dance at ODF (formerly known as Diane Fay Dance Gallery).

Mentored by the studio’s previous owners, Diane Fay and Dan Barris, she discovered her potential as a dancer. After moving back to Brielle in 2008 as a dance instructor, she realized that teaching was her true passion after witnessing the impact she had on her students. In 2013, she embraced the opportunity to continue the legacy of ODF, becoming the proud owner of the studio. This transition marked the beginning of a remarkable journey to inspire the next generation of dancers in the greater Manasquan community.

Left: Sheryl Guerrero, owner Ocean Dance Force. Above: Under the careful eye of Miss Sheryl, dancers learn proper form, technique and terminology.

A Chance to Shine

“I felt a calling to give back to the community I grew up in and create a dance studio that goes beyond technical training, a place where young dancers can discover their true potential and feel empowered to chase their dreams,” explains Guerrero. “It’s not just about dance; it’s about giving every aspiring dancer a chance to shine.”

With a rich history spanning nearly three decades, ODF has evolved to offer classes in a diverse range of dance styles, including ballet, jazz, tap, modern, contemporary, lyrical and pointe. From its baby classes to its performance company, what sets ODF apart is not only a commitment to technical excellence but also a focus on instilling important life skills and values in students. The dedicated team of instructors at ODF, many of

whom have been a part of the studio for years, share a deep passion for the art of dance and the community they serve. This cohesive and experienced team aligns with the studio’s mission to empower dancers with confidence and ambition.

Like many businesses, ODF faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. Uncertainty loomed, but with determination and the unwavering support of the community, the studio quickly adapted to virtual dance classes, becoming the first in the area to make this transition. The resilience demonstrated during this period solidified Guerrero’s commitment to delivering on ODF’s mission. With the support of her studio families and the dedication of her instructors, the studio persevered and emerged stronger than ever.

Left: Dancers excitedly gathering in class on their first day back at the studio after summer. Above: The Ocean Dance Force Performance Company taking a moment to connect and bond as a team so they can take on the new year as a committed community.

Supporting Achievement

The impact of ODF reaches far beyond its studio walls. Guerrero and the studio’s commitment to excellence has led to numerous achievements and accolades for its dancers. ODF students have consistently garnered recognition at regional and national dance competitions. Many of Sheryl’s students have gone on to pursue professional dance careers, joining prestigious dance schools and companies. This success is a testament to the exceptional training and guidance provided by the ODF faculty.

“We strive to expose our students to diverse dance styles and perspectives,” says Guerrero. Collaborations with renowned choreographers, guest artists and master classes have broadened ODF dancers’ horizons and nurtured their artistic growth. “Being so close to NYC, we love to take advantage of talent that is within reach.” Each year the studio’s performance

company dancers go into the city to take a master class and then see a performance, either on Broadway or at Lincoln Center. “This past year,” says Guerrero, “we had a master class with Connor McRory (a Swing for Funny Girl Broadway) and then saw a performance with Lea Michele in Funny Girl on Broadway! This was a once in a lifetime experience that I was so thrilled to be able to provide for our dance families.”

ODF has also made significant contributions to the dance community at large. The studio actively participates in community events, performing at the Candy Cane Hunt (organized by the Manasquan Chamber of Commerce) and other local festivals, parades and charitable functions. ODF believes in giving back and uses dance to inspire and uplift others. By sharing their artistry and passion with the wider community, ODF dancers become ambassadors for the transformative power of dance. “Through these opportunities, our

students learn to embrace versatility and express themselves authentically,” says Guerrero.

Looking Ahead

As ODF looks to the future, its commitment to empowering the next generation remains steadfast. The studio continues to evolve and adapt to meet the changing needs and aspirations of its dancers. Guerrero wants ODF to be a hub for dance education that also fosters a supportive and inclusive community and nurtures creativity, passion and personal growth.

As the studio continues to evolve and innovate, its legacy of empowerment and artistic growth will continue to inspire generations to come. Guerrero knows that ODF is not just a dance studio; it is a force that propels dancers toward their dreams and instills in them a belief that anything is possible through the power of dance.

“It’s not just about dance; it’s about giving every aspiring dancer a chance to shine.”

- Sheryl Guerrero, owner, Ocean Dance Force

Tracy Naimo is the publisher of Manasquan + Brielle Magazine. She lives in Brielle with her husband, Charlie, and their young twins.

Caring for Little Hearts

How having a ‘heart baby’ led one woman to join the fight for all infants born with a congenital heart defect

I had always envisioned that giving birth to my first child would be a special time for bonding. Soaking in lots of skin-to-skin contact with my newborn is something doctors often told me was comforting, beneficial and special to mother and baby. But for me, it was different. After what felt like only a few brief seconds to hug and kiss my newborn son, he was whisked off through a tiny opening in the wall of my hospital room for testing. You see, this wasn’t your typical pregnancy and the lifesaving steps that needed to happen over the next 24 to 36 hours to save my baby’s life were terrifying and unforgettable.

At my five-month ultrasound, I was lying on a bed in a pediatric cardiologist’s office and heard the question I’ll never forget, “How much do you know about the human heart?” That was the first moment that I knew this would be anything but an ordinary pregnancy. The cardiologist went on to tell my husband and I that our baby would be born with a congenital heart defect, or CHD.

BY KRISTINA HARM

Because our baby would need immediate care and surgery, it was required that I give birth to Maximus (Max) at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), a world-renowned medical facility where he would be surrounded by the best pediatric cardiologists and surgeons on the East Coast. After being passed through that window in the delivery room, Max was hooked up to countless machines with tubes connected all over his tiny body.

After the team made sure Max was okay, he was transferred to the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU) where I finally got to see him again a couple hours later. It was such a scary sight. I could no longer hold him without carefully and meticulously moving each wire and tube, careful not to make the machines go off or harm him in any way. At less than two days old, Max was transported to the operating room for open heart surgery, called an arterial switch. Max’s congenital heart defect is specifically called transposition of the great arteries with ventricular septal defect and pulmonary stenosis. In layman’s terms, his tubes weren’t crossed where they should

be, but there was a hole that made blood flow possible.

A Life-Changing Encounter

As scared as my husband and I were at the time, especially with this being our first baby, nothing felt worse than feeling alone. Although I knew the statistics that one in one hundred babies are born with a congenital heart defect, I had never felt more alone in my life. That was until a chance encounter at a local business where I was working.

Kathy Schmidt came in asking to hang up posters for an upcoming walk benefiting “heart babies.” I asked Kathy for some information about the organization and that conversation was the first time I ever heard about Big Hearts to Little Hearts (BH2LH). I opened up to Kathy about my own story and experience as a “heart mom.” She encouraged me to reach out to the president of this local, non-profit organization, Lynne Accisano, but I was nervous. Why would anyone care about my experience? It took me a while to make that phone call, but I’m so grateful that I did.

Fighting for ‘Heart Warriors’

Lynne graciously invited me to my first meeting where everyone introduced themselves and told their stories. I met people who had no ‘heart’ experience, who did this solely out of the goodness of their hearts, like Kathy. I also met mothers of heart warriors. Moms just like me, who had stories and experiences just like the one I went through. They fought for their heart babies and fought hard. It made me realize that I wasn’t alone and that I wanted to help others and become part of this charity.

BH2LH hosts a handful of local events throughout the year, raising money to help fund CHD research studies at CHOP for both little heart warriors and big heart warriors. BH2LH board members and supporters are invited to CHOP once a year to hear a presentation from the doctors and surgeons about different options for spending our donation. The BH2LH board then votes on what fits our mission best. To date, we have helped fund 3D hearts to determine the best course of action for surgery; the purchase of pulse oximeters that are sent home with CHD patients to help detect issues; treatment of CHD patients as they reach adulthood; and prolonged research studies.

Some of the events hosted throughout the year include the family-friendly Sunday morning Heart Walk in September that is hosted by Leggett’s, the Big Hearts Gala in February hosted by The Manasquan Elks Club, a golf outing in May at Jumping Brook Golf Club and a newly proposed family-friendly basketball knockout event coming soon! BH2LH has raised over $1 million since its inception, but also brings a sense of extended family and comfort to those who have gone through similar experiences. To know I’m not alone and to know Max is not alone is worth everything to me.

Kristina Harm is an elementary school teacher who is currently enjoying time off to raise her three children. She is passionate about Big Hearts to Little Hearts, going to the beach and spending time with her family, pictured with her on the opposite page.

“The lifesaving steps that needed to happen over the next 24 to 36 hours to save my baby’s life were terrifying and unforgettable.”

– Kristina Harm, whose son, Maximus, was born with a congenital heart defect

Cool Cocktails

Delicious

local mixed drinks to sip through the fall season

These cocktails—all from local bartenders and favorite gathering spots— are the perfect complement to cooler fall evenings.

LA MONDINA

110 Union Ave. Brielle 732-612-8331

House-made fig syrup, bourbon (four roses) and lemon, served on the rocks with a fig garnish

FRATELLO’S RESTAURANT

810 The Plaza Sea Girt 732-974-8833

Organic spiced pumpkin vodka in a glass rimmed with cinnamon and honey-graham-cracker crumbs

SHIPWRECK GRILL

720 Ashley Ave. Brielle 732-292-9380

Caramel vodka, apple schnapps and Tito’s vodka with lemon juice, green apples and caramel sauce

PHOTOGRAPH BY ALYSSA MANCINI

Monmouth County’s refill shop is right here in downtown Manasquan! Providing nontoxic sustainable products that are good for your home, body and planet. Reduce waste by bringing containers from home to fill with laundry detergent, cleaning products, dish soap etc. Personal care products include hair care, soaps, deodorants, and skin care. All nontoxic and in low-waste packaging. Also offering a large selection of sustainable swaps and fun, eco-friendly gifts.

Coldwell Banker Realty

Spring Lake Office

Susan Bastardo Realtor Associate, SRES

C: 732.245.5848 | O:732.449.2777

1122 Third Ave., Spring Lake, NJ 07762 susan.bastardo@cbmoves.com

Susan Bastardo knows that “KNOWLEDGE IS POWER”. Susan is attuned to the rapidly changing trends in the marketplace and keeps both buyers and sellers informed every step of way. Susan’s clients rely heavily on her previous banking & mortgage experience, keen artist’s eye for staging & decor to stage their home and “everything” Monmouth county. Her SRES designation, NJ Realtors Distinguished Sales Award, Five Star Award and Coldwell Banker’s International President’s Circle Award puts Susan in the top 7% of all Coldwell Banker agents worldwide.

2023 Client Testimonial- ”You’re the best realtor on the planet!”

Get Ready to Read!

BookTowne’s 2nd annual read-a-thon will take place November 11.

BY BOOKTOWNE STAFF

Isn’t it every book lover’s dream to have a sleepover in a bookstore? It has always been a fantasy of ours at BookTowne, so last year we made it a reality by combining our love of reading with our love of our community and reading through the night to raise money for local charities.

In 2022, we raised over $4,000 to benefit the Common Ground Grief Center in Manasquan. All monies raised this time around will go to the Kindness Cafe on Main in Manasquan. Head over to our website— www.booktowne.com—to donate!

Here’s the story on our read-a-thon:

• Booksellers will be reading for 12+ hours (overnight!) to raise money for Kindness Cafe on Main. We’ll be reading from sundown till sunup!

• BookTowne’s doors will be locked. Sellers will be BOOK BOUND to the store!

• We will be taking turns reading in the window, so feel free to stop by in the middle of the night to cheer your favorite bookseller on...reading until they drop!

• Community celebrities will be reading from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in our window.

• We will be hosting an “open house” in partnership with Kindness Cafe on Main from 7 to 8 p.m. Ten percent of BookTowne’s proceeds during this time will be donated as well.

Kindness Cafe on Main offers individuals with developmental disabilities real-life work experience, enhanced social and community interaction, and the opportunity to develop life skills that help build a foundation for independent adulthood. Learn more at www.kindnesscafeonmain.com.

BookTowne’s overnight read-a-thons are a book lover’s dream, and they raise money for local charities, too. This year’s beneficiary: Kindness Cafe on Main.

For the read-a-thon, BookTowne booksellers are highlighting books that are hotly anticipated new releases this fall and early winter. All can be preordered at www.booktowne.com.

MYSTERY

“The Fury”

by Alex Michaelides

A masterfully paced thriller about a reclusive ex–movie star and her famous friends whose spontaneous trip to a private Greek island is upended by a murder.

Publication date: January 16, 2024.

“The Leftover Woman”

by Jean Kwok

Two women. Two worlds. One impossible choice. An evocative family drama and a riveting mystery about the ferocious pull of motherhood for two very different women from the New York Times best-selling author of “Searching for Sylvie Lee” and “Girl in Translation.”

Publication date: October 10, 2023.

BIOGRAPHY

by Barbra Streisand

This is the long-awaited memoir by the superstar of stage, screen, recordings and television.

Publication date: November 7, 2023.

“Let Us Descend”

by Jesmyn Ward

From Jesmyn Ward—the two-time National Book Award winner, youngest winner of the Library of Congress Prize for American Fiction and MacArthur Fellow—comes a haunting masterpiece, sure to be an instant classic, about an enslaved girl in the years before the Civil War.

Publication date: October 24, 2023.

“Edith Holler”

by Edward Carey

The witty and entrancing story of a young woman trapped in a ramshackle English playhouse—and the mysterious figure who threatens its very survival.

Publication date: October 31, 2023.

“Absolution”

By Alice McDermott

A riveting account of women’s lives on the margins of the Vietnam War from the renowned winner of the National Book Award. American women—American wives—have been mostly minor characters in the literature of the Vietnam War, but in “Absolution,” they take center stage. Tricia is a shy newlywed, married to a rising attorney on loan to navy intelligence. Charlene is a practiced corporate spouse and mother of three, a beauty and a bully. In Saigon in 1963, the two women form a wary alliance as they balance the era’s mandate to be “helpmeets” to their ambitious husbands with their own, inchoate impulse to “do good” for the people of Vietnam.

Publication date: October 31, 2023

ESSAYS

“The Deadline”

by Jill Lepore

SCIENCE FICTION

“The

by Naomi Alderman

The best-selling, award-winning author of “The Power” delivers a dazzling tour de force where a handful of friends plot a daring heist to save the world from the tech giants whose greed threatens life as we know it.

Publication date: November 7, 2023.

The astonishing essays collected in “The Deadline” offer a prismatic portrait of Americans’ techno-utopianism, frantic fractiousness and unprecedented—but armed—aimlessness. From lockdowns, race commissions, Bratz dolls and bicycles to the losses that haunt Lepore’s life, these essays again and again cross what she calls the deadline: the “river of time that divides the quick from the dead.” Available now.

Future”

“My Name Is Barbra”

A Surfing Tradition Continues

The 30th Manasquan Classic Longboard Contest

BY LAURIE ADAMKIEWICZ

The Manasquan Inlet is special to endless locals and visitors alike. It hosts an array of events throughout the year and is the perfect place to sit, relax and watch the people, bikes, boats and dogs pass by.

The inlet has become an iconic location for none other than surfing. As far back as the 1960s, Manasquan’s waves have been considered challenging, and some of the best on the East Coast. Expert surfers make their way here each year. Manasquan Inlet Beach has been described as having “the best fun-loving true soul surfers on the planet.”

Supporting Local Charities

This year marked the 30th year of the historic longboard contest. Since its beginning in 1963, the event has continued to grow in popularity each year. The Manasquan Board Riders Club (MBRC) is a 501C3 organization, with all proceeds going to local charities within the

community. Manasquan Elks, Manasquan

First Aid Squad, and the Samaritan Center are just a few that have benefited. This year, funds will go to Jason Bitzer, whose 3-year-old son James has been diagnosed with Neuroblastoma. Bitzer has spent 15 years dedicating his life to saving others’ lives on Oahu in Hawaii. He founded Never Off Duty, a charity raising funds to provide people with the knowledge to prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. He needs our help now.

Perfect surf this year at the beach. Small waves of 1 to 2 feet allowed many surfers to join in the fun. New soft board divisions were added this year. The goal is to try to involve more kids. Manasquan loves a family atmosphere on its beaches! The rules are simple: Boards ridden must be made prior to 1967. Surfers cannot wear leashes. Smiles were everywhere as contestants posed with their trophies—in the shape of surfboards of course!

Honoring Joe Troger

Joe Troger, who passed away this past February and is greatly missed, was one of the founding members of the MBRC, along with local surfing legend Carl Danish. The Troger Heat, held in his memory, was open to all surfers who had participated in the original event in 1963.

Along with club president Larry Schmidt, officers include Mike Brown, Tom Kerrigan, and Debbie Pagels. This fun event would not be possible without the continued support of the many sponsors who remain loyal each year. Garden State Film Festival became a new sponsor this year. Most important are the contestants who have such a love for the waves and the sport of surfing.

Laurie Adamkiewicz is a local freelance writer and photographer, and the mom of two grown sons. She loves the smell of the ocean and the sound of seagulls and feels blessed to have raised her family at the shore.

This year marked the 30th anniversary of the Manasquan Classic Longboard Contest. Among the many surfers to compete was the contest’s founder and Manasquan Board Riders Club (MBRC) surf historian Carl Danish (bottom left and right). Danish won this year’s Troger Heat, which honors Joe Troger, one of MBRC’s founding members.

Seasonless Beauty

Although we have said goodbye to beach days, bathing suits and shorts, and hello to football hoodies and sweaters, the beauty of a Manasquan sunrise permeates every season. Photo by Manasquan resident Heather

Taylor.

Kitchen Designer: Brittany Rizzolo

Kitchen Designer: Andrea Garone Kitchen Designer: Niki Kovacs

Kitchen Designer: Ralph Katz