Monmouth April/May 2024

Features

Nothing To Sneeze At 20

When the high pollen count has you reaching for relief, here’s what works— and what doesn’t.

Office With An Ocean 22

When COVID blurred the line between the zones of work and home, one New Yorker exchanged big-city lights for an Atlantic vista.

Quality On A Deadline 28

A family wanted their rebuilt Bay Head beach home to be perfect, but they didn’t want to miss a single day of summer.

Color Rules 34

Choosing paints is one of the key requirements for your design project. Here’s help from five local experts.

Contents

Departments

Monmouth Buzz 10

Our guide to new ideas, tips, trends and things we love in the county.

Friends & Neighbors 12

Pursuing nature has made Capt. Kevin Halek of Port Monmouth almost as wise as his favorite bird.

Style Watch 14

These stylish strands will keep you on trend all season long.

Home Front 16

Statement lighting lets your style shine through.

Tastes 40

These chocolate delights are a perfect treat any time of year— and you won’t feel guilty going back for more.

Restaurant Review 58

Make a dash for Marlboro’s Bad Hat, the place for Asian fusion and creative cocktails.

Gatherings 63

Monmouth residents always support their neighbors—especially when help is needed most.

A Monmouth

Moment 64

On the Jersey Shore, an iconic surfer, boat and location all lined up in an unforgettable shot.

ON THE COVER

An Asbury Park condo gets a bright, contemporary feel thanks to designer Sheila Rich. Photo by Lauren Hagerstrom

Taxes and Retirement

WELCOME

to the latest editions of Fiscal Fitness! Spring is finally in the air at the Jersey Shore with warmer weather quickly approaching.The S&P 500 just hit it’s 18th record high of the year, defying recent hotter-than-expected inflation data1 For anyone nearing retirement, now more than ever is the time to review your portfolio.

THE SECURE ACT

ushered in many changes in the way we save for retirement and could have a dramatic impact on IRA estate strategies. IRAs and 401ks are often one of the easiest ways to build a large nest egg for your retirement as well as an opportunity to leave a legacy for loved ones. A provision of the Secure Act eliminated the “stretch IRA”, a strategy allowing an IRA to continue benefiting from tax-deferred growth, potentially for decades. Unfortunately, most non-spouse beneficiaries, including children and grandchildren, can no longer “stretch” distributions over their lifetimes.

THE NEW RULES

IRAs more attractive and depending on your tax situation, a Roth Conversion could make sense. Under the SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022, RMDs are eliminated for Roth plans starting in 2024, but you must still take RMDs for earlier years if you were required to do so3

TO ROTH OR NOT TO ROTH

For retirement assets inherited January 1, 2020 and later, non-spouse beneficiaries are required to deplete inherited accounts within 10 years of the owner’s death.2 If, for example, my son inherits my IRA, he has 10 years to deplete the entire account upon my passing. Not only would this shortened distribution period result in unanticipated and potentially large tax bills, would I really want him to spend down his inheritance that I worked so hard to accumulate? NOTE: Key exceptions apply to those who are known as “eligible designated beneficiaries”. Spousal beneficiaries can wait until age 73 to begin RMDs. Retirement account owners should review their beneficiary designations carefully and consider how the new rules affect inheritances and taxes, especially for high value IRAs. Strategies that include trusts as beneficiaries also need to be reviewed. The new rules make Roth

Now may be the time to consider contributing to a Roth IRA as contributions are tax free when withdrawn and earnings are tax free if the distribution is “qualified”3 Many employers now offer a Roth 401(k) option allowing you to make after-tax contributions that are not subject to income limitations. This is a great opportunity for high income earners and should not be overlooked.

NOTE: Do you have excess funds in a 529 plan? Beginning this year, The SECURE 2.0 Act allows 529 plan funds to be rolled into a Roth IRA, limited to a lifetime maximum of $35,000. However, the amount can’t be used up in one year. MANY conditions apply, so speak to a financial professional before making ANY decisions.

Every financial decision you make could have a tax consequence. It’s important to collaborate with an experienced and qualified CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER Professional™ and CPA to help provide the best outcome possible. The value of financial planning has never been more important and can make all the difference in your financial future. Together we can make it happen…

About THE AUTHOR

DEBRA FOURNIER, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst™, has been providing comprehensive wealth management services to families and independent women for over 25 years.

Recognized as an experienced and knowledgeable professional in the areas of financial transitions and divorce financial planning, her guidance is often sought where there are complicated financial issues, significant assets or an imbalance in financial knowledge between divorcing couples.

Debra has been quoted in Kiplinger’s Personal Finance Magazine and AOL Daily Finance, appeared numerous times on Good Day New York and has been featured in the Asbury Park Press section Getting Ahead.

Looking for a more personalized approach to your finances? We invite you to call us at 732-800-8400 or email debra.fournier@lpl.com and discover how we can help you pursue your financial goals.

Debra

CERTIFIED

2006 Highway 71, Suite 1 Spring Lake, NJ 07762

732-800-8400 | 732-800-0622 fax seaviewwealth.com

The consultative approach to real estate

Leading with an exceptional client-first approach, Jayne Camlin is consistently a Top-Producing Agent in her industry.

A critical advocate for her Sellers and Buyers alike, she sees herself as a true advisor + consultant in navigating the real estate landscape on their behalf.

No challenge is too big, and no market too demanding for Jayne to navigate successfully -- always helping her clients make good decisions!

Broker/Sales

M: 732.673.9100

O: 732.936.5248

jayne.camlin@compass.com

When Homes Are Reborn

Aren’t we lucky? When it’s time to put together one of MONMOUTH’s Home & Garden issues, I get to experience vicariously the thrill of homes transformed to meet a new need, a new mood, a new epoch in a family’s life— and you get to enjoy the results in the revealing photos we publish.

We’re privileged to share the joy, for example, of the owners of a Bay Head beach house that needed to be redone—on a tight schedule (page 28). This was a complete rebuild, but designer Beth Insabella Walsh was savvy enough to repurpose nearly-new fixtures and furniture from the previous structure as she achieved the sophisticated look and open floor design the owners craved. Getting it just right was most important, but wasn’t it nice that the efficiency of Walsh and her team made it so this family didn’t miss a season on the beach?

Quality plus speed—you could call that having your cake and eating it too. There’s another example of that on page 22, where you’ll read of a Manhattan escapee who decided, as many of us do in this age of “WFH,” that he could work anywhere. That didn’t mean, of course, that every place would have the hip urban vibe he was used to. But cosmopolitan Asbury Park beckons the NYC transplant, and designer Sheila Rich shaped his luxury, high-rise-condo home-slash-office beautifully with one key organizing notion: the ocean!

These vicarious experiences don’t make us experts, I’ll admit. But we’ve got experts on tap too. On page 34, five top Monmouth County designers share advice about choosing paints. Take just one issue, for example: the finish. For a given use, do you want flat, eggshell, semi-gloss or high-gloss?

We’re all fortunate that spring is in full flower, and it’s full of special occasions. Earth Day is April 22, Cinco de Mayo is May 5 (in case your Spanish is rusty), Mother’s Day is May 12, and Memorial Day is May 27. You’ll find tips for marking all of these on pages 10–11.

If spring has a downside, it’s seasonal allergies, which afflict some of us with sneezes, runny noses and itchy eyes. There are several treatments available, both short- and long-term, and you’ll learn from two local allergists about them on page 20.

Want more? A restaurant so confident it dares to include the word “Bad” in its name? (Page 58.) Desserts that satisfy your sweet tooth? (Page 40.) A close call at sea of which the boat captain recalls, “One of the outriggers on the outside of the boat broke off and shot right past my head”? (Page 12.) You’ll find all of these things and more in this MONMOUTH magazine as we fulfill our mission to cover good times, good health—and perhaps the occasional hair-raising adventure.

We feel luckiest, of course, to have our readers. Enjoy this issue!

Rita Guarna Editor in Chief rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com

Monmouth

Editor in Chief RITA GUARNA

Creative Director

STEPHEN M. VITARBO

Senior Associate Editor

DARIUS AMOS

Assistant Editor

KIRSTEN MEEHAN

Contributing Editors

PAUL RANCE JR.

DONNA ROLANDO

Contributing Photographers

LAUREN HAGERSTROM WING WONG/MEMORIES TTL

Editorial Intern DENISSE GONZALEZ RAMIREZ

PRODUCTION

Production Manager

FERN E. MESHULAM

Production Artist

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Monmouth Buzz

OUR GUIDE TO NEW IDEAS, TIPS, TRENDS AND THINGS WE LOVE IN OUR COUNTY.

GO AHEAD, MAKE MOM’S DAY

Breakfast or brunch is a given for Mother’s Day (May 12), but that oh-so-important woman in your life deserves more than a great meal. Here are other ideas:

• Shower her with flowers: There’s good news if you’ve not yet ordered a bouquet for Mom: Many local florists can help. For brilliant blooms, pleasant pastels and calming corals, check out Mayflowers of Red Bank (5 Wharf Ave., Red Bank, 732.747.7001; mayflowersofredbank.com), Wildflowers (2510 Belmar Blvd., Wall, 732.681.5155; wildflowers-florist.com) or Kirk Florist (80 W. Farms Rd., Farmingdale, 732.938.2487; kirkflorist.com).

• Go to a garden: Much as she loves receiving a bouquet, Mom will also appreciate surrounding herself with the flowers, plants and wildlife at Monmouth’s public gardens. Deep Cut Gardens (152 Red Hill Rd., Middletown, 732.842.4000) is a hot spot on Mother’s Day, but the colors and lush plant life at David C. Shaw Arboretum (44 Longstreet Rd., Holmdel, 732.946.9562)—ask about the sunflower planting May 12 at nearby Longstreet Farm—and Erlanger Gardens on the Monmouth University campus are sights to see as well.

• Take a hike: Weather permitting, escape to the outdoors and take Mom for a stress-free stroll. Most state and county parks are open, and plants are in full spring bloom. Soak up nature’s beauty along the trails at Cheesequake State Park, Hartshorne Woods Park or Manasquan Reservoir. To find out more places, visit monmouthcountyparks.com.

• Make a memento: A glass-blowing class at Hot Sand (550 Cookman Ave., Asbury Park, 732.927.5475; hotsandap. com) is an easy activity where you and Mom can create amazing keepsakes. Reservations required.

• Enjoy fun and games: Dads aren’t the only ones who play games. Spend some quality time with Mom at a miniature golf course like Swingtime Mini Golf (2390 Rte. 9, Howell, 732.845.0093; swingtimefamilyfun.com) or Shipwreck Island (800 Ocean Ave. N., Bradley Beach, 732.774.2937; bradleybeachminigolf.com), or play old-fashioned video games with her at iPlay America (110 Schanck Rd., Freehold, 732.577.8200; iplayamerica.com). Don’t forget a session in the photo booth!

AND THEN THERE’S MOTHER EARTH

We can’t rid our oceans of plastic debris overnight, but we have the power to effect environmental change locally, particularly on Earth Day (April 22). This year’s theme for the annual global observance is “Planet vs. Plastics,” and you can do your part by donating to a charity or conservancy group. For those want to get down and dirty, here are ways to volunteer in your community and learn more about environmental advocacy (for more details, visit monmouthcountyparks.com):

• Earth Day Open House, April 20, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Manasquan Reservoir Environmental Center, Howell. The entire family can attend this free event, which includes guided nature walks, live animal presentations and crafts.

• Beach Cleanup, April 21, 10 a.m. to noon at Bayshore Waterfront Park, Port Monmouth; 1 to 3 p.m. at Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park Center, Long Branch. Join the Monmouth County Parks Department to clear the beach of trash and debris.

• Earth Day Shore Planting, April 22, 5 to 6:30 p.m., Bayshore Waterfront Park, Port Monmouth. Join county volunteers to plant native flora in the park to provide food and shelter for local wildlife.

YOUR VOTE COUNTS!

Do you know all the best spots around the county for pancakes, sushi or a great pair of shoes? Maybe you just have very strong opinions about your favorite local deli. Make your voice heard in the MONMOUTH 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards. Online voting is now open, and ballots can be filled out at monmouthmag.com/monmouth-readers-choice-2024-voting. Tell us all your favorite local establishments, from day spas to breakfast cafes to craft breweries. Winners will be featured in our September issue and spotlighted on our social media accounts. Vote now before ballots close April 15.

PUPPY LOVE

Dog: Opal, 13-year-old double doodle

Owner: The Basen family of Freehold

Dogs are a man’s best friend, but it took a while for Opal to open up to her owners. When the Basens adopted the pooch when she was 9 months old, she was “petrified of people,” “mother” Jodi says. But after three months in her new home, Opal finally let her forever family pet her and get close—and it’s been a love affair ever since.

“We have doggie birthday parties for her every year, and one year had 28 doggie friends attend,” Jodi reports. Popular with other canines, Opal’s also highly intelligent (she can press designated buttons to request different treats and toys) and was a therapy dog before the pandemic. Though she doesn’t test the surf at the beach the way she used to, Opal is still a true love bug who’s devoted to her family.

“Opal has changed my life in many positive ways—way too many to list,” Jodi says. “I would never have imagined I could have this special bond or would ever feel this much love.”

Want to see your pet featured in an upcoming issue? Send a photo and brief details to Editor Rita Guarna at rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com.

CULINARY CORNER

Looking for new eats around the area? Try one of these newly opened restaurants:

IT MEX YOU HUNGRY

A trip south of the border may not be on the agenda, but you can always head to El Guacamole in Asbury Park. The restaurant serves authentic Mexican cuisine with options ranging from tacos to pambazos. (They’re sandwiches filled with chorizo, lettuce, sour cream and cheese.)

• El Guacamole, 808 Main Park, 732.361.3363

IT’S SEAFOOD SEASON

As the weather warms, you’ll have a hankering for seafood. it at Sirens Seafood in the section of Middletown, which tempt you with delicious po’ shrimp platters, oysters on half shell and an ocean’s worth other options.

• Sirens Seafood, 910 Rte. 36, Leonardo, 848.300.2099; sirensseafoodnj.com

GET A TABLE AT MABEL

Enjoy dining and drinking in an authentic European pub? Mabel, opening soon at Bell Works in Holmdel, can replicate that experience, serving a variety of coastal European bar foods and cocktails in their brand-new space with an outdoor patio.

• Mabel, 101 Crawfords Corner Holmdel; mabelatbell.com

LIVE MUSIC LIVES!

When you crave live music but would rather skip the traffic and crowds around Monmouth’s big venues, head to one of our county’s local sites—for instance:

• Sit down for eats and drinks at Triumph Restaurant & Brewery (1 Bridge Ave., Red Bank, 732.852.7300; triumphbrewing.com) while enjoying music every Thursday through Sunday. Genres include instrumental jazz, blues, indie and R&B.

• Want to amp your night up? Visit Donovan’s Reef (1171 Ocean Ave., Sea Bright, 732.530.1833; donovansreefbeachbar.com). It has a lineup of live bands jamming favorite tunes as you listen at the outdoor tiki bar and patio.

On Cinco de Mayo, we celebrate Mexican-American culture and the impact Mexican communities have in the U.S. One way is with food, and Monmouth is home to top-notch options for authentic Mexican eats. This May 5, be sure to check out some of these restaurants, each recently honored in our Readers’ Choice Awards:

• Aby’s, 32 Main St., Matawan, 732.583.9119; abysmexicanrestaurant.com (reopening in April!)

• El Señor Pepper’s, 60 Bridge Ave., Red Bank, 732.741.1211; elsenorpeppers.wixsite.com

• Juanito’s, 159 Monmouth St., Red Bank, 732.747.9118; juanitosredbank.com

• Reyna’s Mexican Restaurant, 4057 Asbury Ave., Tinton Falls, 732.922.2011; reynasmexicanrestaurant.com

• Rosalita’s, 180 Rte. 9 N., Englishtown, 732.617.0099; rosiescantinanj.com

• Beach Haus Brewery (801 Main St., Belmar, 732.202.7782; beachhausbeer.com) has it all with a series of artists ranging from folk to reggae to acoustic rock. Visit on a Friday or Sunday to catch a live act.

• Also along the Shore is Salty’s Beach Bar (1705 Main St., Lake Como, 732.556.6690; saltys beachbar.com), a revamped hot spot that offers live music nearly every day for lovers of rock.

EVERYONE LOVES A PARADE

Memorial Day Weekend is a time to honor the memory of service -men and -women, and there’s no better way than marching in (or simply watching) a parade. Some options our area:

• Allentown, May 27 at 10:30 a.m., from North Main Street to Newell Elementary School.

• Bradley Beach, May 25 at 10 a.m., from Bradley Boulevard to Ocean Avenue in Ocean Grove.

• Colts Neck, May 27 at 10:30 a.m., from Town Hall on Veterans Way to Firehouse No. 2.

• Fair Haven, May 27 at 9 a.m., from Sportsman Field to Memorial Park.

• Farmingdale, May 27 at 1 p.m., from Farmingdale Elementary School.

• Freehold Township, May 27 at 10 a.m., from Brinkerhoff Avenue and Main Street to the Monmouth County Courthouse.

KUDOS TO…

…chef David Viana, top left, and the team at Lita, which was named a 2024 James Beard Foundation Award semifinalist for Best New Restaurant. (Finalists were announced April 3, after press deadline.) The modern Iberian eatery in Aberdeen, named after Viana’s mother, Rosa Lita, offers a Portuguese-inspired, prix-fixe menu featuring options from smoked trout roe and duck croquettes to octopus with squid ink rice and paella for two.

…Asbury Park’s Connor Kane, top right, selected winner of this year’s Monmouth County Travel Guide photo contest. Kane’s image of two surfers walking along the Shore with bright red and beige boards will grace the cover of the county’s guide, due out later this year.

…the students of Brookdale Community College, bottom left, who received a total of $40,000 in scholarships from the OceanFirst Foundation. The students are studying computer science, radiology, ESL, architecture and health science.

…Christian Brothers Academy student Jack Keavey, bottom right, who helped raise more than $26,000 for the Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund. Keavey recently hosted a “row-a-thon” to support current members of the military through care packages and holiday gifts. More than 20 families and organizations helped fund this event.

FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS

The Call Of The Wild

Pursuing nature has made Capt. Kevin Halek of Port Monmouth almost as wise as his favorite bird.

Fishing and wildlife guide and nature photographer Kevin Halek, 63, is a lifelong Monmouth resident. He grew up in Middletown, where he met and married his wife of 40 years. Together they raised two daughters; he is now a grandfather of three. He had a career with a major insurance company, focusing on strategies, acquisitions and compliance.

But he has also been a Coast Guard-certified captain for nearly 30 years, following his passion for fishing and wildlife all over the world and sharing it with others via the guide service Quick Fix Fishing & Wildlife Photography Guide, a business he owns and operates. It has been, he says, “a wild ride.”

When did your love for the outdoors begin?

Growing up in the ’60s and ’70s, we all played outside. Hartshorne Woods was my backyard. A short walk took us to a pond that was stocked with trout by the state, so we learned to fish for trout.

When I got older, I moved on to the Navesink River, and it kind of took off from there. A favorite place you’ve traveled?

Costa Rica. The people are friendly, and the environment is incredible. I would go back there in a heartbeat. Every year, if I could.

How about the most difficult place you’ve traveled?

Rainy Lake, up in International Falls, Minnesota, when the weather didn’t cooperate. We went the last week of June, when it’s supposed to be 60 or 70 degrees. It was more like 45 or 50.

Sailing isn’t for the faint of heart.

Have you had any close calls?

I was 90 miles off the coast of Belmar with a group who didn’t quite take it as seriously as I did. It was an August afternoon, and the forecast was for severe weather. We should have left earlier; we didn’t. We were suddenly in this awful storm—thunder, light-

ning, hail—in a 34-foot boat. One of the outriggers on the outside of the boat broke off and shot right past my head, and then went into the ocean. The seas were violent. I was saying my prayers, just hoping we’d get in OK. We did, thankfully, but it’s not an experience I’d want anyone else to go through.

What inspired you to pick up photography as well?

When I’d take people fishing, they’d want those memories. I took pride in the photos I took of them and their families. Sometimes I’d have three generations on a trip—a grandfather, a dad and his son. For the past 10 years I’ve been photographing wildlife. I like to search for owls—owls are my big thing. When you’re fishing, you know the tide and the moon phase. You’re watching the weather. Owls are similar. They’re creatures of habit. They have the same roosts they go back to, and the same holes

they nest in. I do a lot of record keeping so I can go back the next year and get similar results. Even though I do tours, I don’t share all those spots with my clients. They’re just for me. Why owls?

Owls have personalities. They watch you watch them. And they make no noise when they fly. I love the thrill of finding them, and then not spooking them. They get comfortable with you, and then you can go back and experience them again. I see the same owls, and I know they’re the same owls, and they know me too. Maybe that sounds a little weird, but it’s my favorite part of what I do.

What do you do with your photographs?

I have a good following on Instagram, and I’m not looking to be an influencer. Mostly I share them with friends.

What keeps you coming back to Monmouth?

We have salt water; we have fresh water; we have incredible parks. I don’t need to leave Monmouth County to see what I want to see.

Over your years of traveling, what’s a lesson you’ve learned?

Do it as much as you can when you’re young. It doesn’t need to be big, expensive trips.

A lesson from photography?

Put your time into things and be patient. I tell my wife it takes me 100,000 steps to find an owl. It’s always worth it.

What are you looking forward to this year?

I’m going on an Alaska land-sea cruise in July. Parting words?

I feel privileged to be able to appreciate what we have out there. A lot of people never take time to stop and look around. I get to do that.

—Kirsten Meehan

Photos courtesy of Kevin Halek

Fringe Benefits

These stylish strands will keep you on trend all season long.

Beautiisoles

Sevilla Suede Fringe Skirt Banana Republic, Shrewsbury, 732.530.1277

Alanui High-Rise Fringed Jeans mytheresa.com

BKE Fringe Belt buckle.com

Mauritius Zoe Beige Fringe Jacket pintoranch.com

Vintage Fringe Vest us.shein.com

Tania Red Suede Boots beautiisoles.com

Dyan Small Fringed Suede Shoulder Bag Michael Kors, Freehold, 732.358.5185

Elevate Your Home's Style: Expert Tips For Choosing

Exterior House Colors

Transforming your home’s exterior is more than a simple makeover; it’s a chance to elevate your home’s style and make a lasting impression. With expert advice and the following design principles, selecting the perfect color palette can be a creative journey that enhances your home’s curb appeal and reflects your unique personality.

Use the Rule of Three for Visual Harmony

The belief is that the best designs involve no more than three colors (plus black and white, which are technically neutrals), applied in a ratio of 60-30-10. It’s no coincidence that most home exteriors use a combination of three colors – one dominant shade for the main siding, a supporting color for doors, windows and trim, and an accent color to be used sparingly.

Harness the Emotional Power of Color

Colors have the power to evoke emotions and set the tone for your home. Warm hues like reds and oranges exude energy, while cooler blues and greens evoke a sense of calm. Understanding color psychology helps you choose shades that resonate with your desired mood and create a welcoming atmosphere.

Harmonize with Your Home’s Architecture and Neighborhood

Consider permanent elements like roofing, stone, and brick, ensuring that your chosen colors complement or match these features. Adhering to HOA regulations and respecting existing neighborhood color schemes fosters cohesion and enhances the overall appeal of your community.

Find Inspiration

Inspiration is everywhere, waiting to ignite your imagination. Take leisurely drives through different neighborhoods, explore online resources, and draw ideas from our past projects. B&B Siding and Roofing’s Look-Book offers an interactive experience, providing real examples that showcase the transformative power of changing siding, trim, and color.

Visit www.bbsiding.com/lookbook/

Ready to Elevate Your Home’s Exterior?

Embark on your journey with confidence. Consult with experienced exterior professionals for valuable insights and help refining your material and color choices. At B&B Siding and Roofing, our experienced advisors know the latest exterior design trends and provide personalized guidance to create a visually stunning exterior. Contact us for a no-pressure conversation.

| 732.756.9909 | www.bbsiding.com

Patrycja’s core focus is to elevate the home exterior industry to a style-guided experience where our advisors work with you to co-imagine your dream exterior. She inspires our design team to discover and incorporate the latest style trends while honoring timeless remodeling approaches. She is the voice of the customer, drawing on our core values of transparency, integrity, and lasting quality.

Over the last 30 years, we have transformed over 5,000 homes with siding, roofing, windows, and doors and have earned hundreds of 5-star reviews. We offer $0 down financing and industryleading lifetime material and labor warranties.

Patrycja Maras Owner B&B Siding and Roofing

DOGGIES PREVENT DISABILITY

Owning a pooch lowered the risk of disability among older adults, while owning a feline had no effect.

—PLOS One

REJOICE, SOCIAL BUTTERFLIES

Older adults who socialize every day had less brain shrinkage than those people who seldom interacted with other folks.

—Neurology

GO GREEN TO STOP HEADACHES

Being exposed to green light for one to two hours daily decreased the number of headache days from 7.9 to 2.4 monthly. For people suffering chronic migraines, headache days were cut by half.

—Cephalalgia

50

The percent of all fatal car crashes that occur after dark, though only 25 percent involves night hours.

—National Safety Council

3,867

The number of steps, approximately two miles, that reduce a person’s risk of dying from any cause.

—European Journal of Preventive Cardiology

EX-SMOKERS, BEWARE

Twenty-pack-per-year smokers, even those who quit 25 or more years ago, are three times more likely to get lung cancer versus people who never smoked. Experts suggest a lowdose CT (computed tomography) scan to check for abnormalities.

—Journal of the National Cancer Institute

—Compiled by Paul Rance Jr.

Report

Nothing To Sneeze At

WHEN THE HIGH POLLEN COUNT HAS YOU REACHING FOR RELIEF, HERE’S WHAT WORKS—AND WHAT DOESN’T.

The onset of spring should be an exciting time. The days are longer, the snow is melting and we’re all looking forward to throwing open some windows and letting the air in. But for many Americans the warming trend of these days also means that seasonal allergies are on the march. According to the Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America, as of 2021, 26 percent of adults and 19 percent of children had been diagnosed with seasonal allergies.

Coughing, sneezing, itchy and runny eyes, a tight chest, a sinus headache—these symptoms may seem mundane, but they can be debilitating when they become chronic. “It’s a quality-of-life disease,” says Ellen Sher, M.D., an allergist in Ocean Township. “Except in very extreme circumstances it isn’t lifethreatening, but it can stop people from doing the things they want to do.”

Jun Yang, M.D., an allergist in Tinton Falls, adds: “Some patients can just go and grab over-the-counter medication, and that manages their symptoms. For others, the symptoms truly cause suffering—they miss school, miss work or have other conditions that are related to or made worse by allergies, such as sinus infections or asthma.”

Looking for seasonal-allergy relief?

MONMOUTH sat down with Drs. Sher and Yang to discuss some facts, some common misconceptions and some advice on what works:

• Can nasal irrigation help? Saline sprays or nasal irrigation can be a good immediate first step to make yourself feel better. Says Dr. Yang: “The tree pollen you’re allergic to is stuck to your nasal mucosa. If you can wash that allergen out, it’s certainly better than nothing.”

Dr. Sher declares herself “a huge fan of nasal irrigations and sinus rises. There are many ways to do them, as well,” she says. “You can use a neti pot or a NeilMed sinus rinse, and there are even special machines that do it. It’s a great short-term solution.” She adds: “It can also be a good option if someone doesn’t want to take a medication.”

• Is local honey an option? There’s some indication that eating honey, a popular at-home treatment, can introduce pollen allergens into your system and help you build up an immunity to them over time. It’s not a bad theory. “It may work for some patients,” says Dr. Yang, “but it will not work for every patient.”

“There are people who swear by that,” Dr. Sher explains. “However, it is sometimes a double-edged sword. You are intentionally introducing pollen into your system when you do that, because the whole point is that there’s pollen in the honey. It is possible to have a reaction from it. Keep an eye out for that.”

• Will increasing probiotics give relief? What about vitamin C? Recent studies have suggested that a heathy microbiome in the intestinal tract can lower the risk of allergies in general. Though overall health is important, and probiotics help the microbiome in the intestinal tract, both doctors express doubt that increasing them in your diet will help with spring allergy symptoms. While vitamin C is known to prevent inflammation and there may well be some benefit in adding more of it to your diet, neither doctor recommends it specifically for patients. Dr. Yang adds: “It won’t cause harm.”

• Can you predict the allergy season? There is no easy way. “It’s based on our weather predictions, and you know how accurate they can be,” says Dr. Sher with a smile. In New Jersey, allergy season tends to be a two- or three-week period, often the last two weeks of April or the first two weeks of May. The exact time and severity depend on the weather going on around it, which is what makes it so difficult to predict precisely.

Dr. Yang expands on this, saying, “If the season is colder, the trees are not pollinating. But if it gets warm late, that is a different kind of problem. A patient may have been doing OK for months. But, even during a late spring, trees still need to pollinate. That means that when it does get warmer, suddenly everything

releases at once and the pollen count spikes very high. That can cause severe symptoms.”

Dr. Sher adds: “Our allergy season has also been increasing steadily over the past 20 to 30 years. We have been having early springs. Patients should prepare for that.”

• Is there a cure for seasonal allergies?

Allergies are one of the most common chronic conditions in the United States, but there is hope for those looking to ditch their symptoms for good. Allergy shots, also called immunotherapy, are very appealing to people for this reason. “It’s about tolerance,” explains Dr. Yang. “Allergy shots introduce the allergen, in this case pollen, into a person’s system gradually to increase his or her body’s tolerance to it. With pollen in particular, it works very well.”

Dr. Sher echoes that sentiment, saying: “The shots are effective in about 85 percent of patients who go on them, which is a pretty strong number for any medical therapy.” She continues: “The range of benefit is variable—some people come back and say that they don’t need to take any medications at all anymore. Some people come back and say that they do need to continue taking medications, but they’re still seeing significant improvement.” Dr. Sher also stresses the importance of seeing a board-certified allergist for this treatment to ensure that dosages and dilution are correct and get the maximum benefit from it.

More than anything, both doctors say that patients don’t have to suffer. Some lifestyle changes can ease symptoms in the short term—for instance, staying inside and within air-conditioned environments during the height of pollen season, or taking frequent showers. There are long-term solutions as well, and the treatments currently available are effective.

“People are so used to living with their symptoms that they just don’t know how good they can feel,” Dr. Sher says. “Oftentimes, once we put patients onto adequate treatment, they come back to us and say, ‘I don’t know why I waited so long.’”

OFFICE WITH AN OCEAN

WHEN COVID BLURRED THE LINE BETWEEN THE ZONES OF WORK AND HOME, ONE NEW YORKER EXCHANGED BIG-CITY LIGHTS FOR AN ATLANTIC VISTA.

Design by Sheila Rich Interiors

Photography by Lauren Hagerstrom

Text by Donna Rolando

A beachfront city, Asbury Park was a natural fit for a transplanted New Yorker looking to trade skyscrapers for the Shore. For one thing, there would be less culture shock. The pandemic had revolutionized work styles and thrown commutes into question, but it hadn’t erased one’s taste for urban-style pleasures. “Asbury Park offered a feel of NYC at the beach,” explains this homeowner, who also appreciates that his new location stirs childhood Shore memories.

With walls of windows maximizing a beach view, his luxury highrise condo was naturally stunning, and new construction to boot. But to get his new workplace/home just right, he reached out to designer Sheila Rich of the eponymous Monmouth Beach firm, who created an environment that was bright even in gloomy weather.

“Sheila provided a variety of options to choose from for each area of

Beach views and an open floor plan at an Asbury Park high-rise highlight a contemporary design, inspired by a New Yorker’s fresh work routine.

my home,” says the homeowner, whose project was completed last summer.

For the overall scheme, contemporary notions redefine the luxury, Rich says, of a “coastal chic” style she deliberately kept simple for impact. “The kitchen, living room and dining room are all in one big open space, and it’s all a backdrop to the views of the ocean,” she explains. As a bonus, two local landmarks—the convention center and Tillie mural art—are both on view.

A wow in the kitchen is the stainless-steel hood, which spans the room’s width and offers matching shelving on either side. Contrasting simple white cabinets, the backsplash and countertops make a splash with gray-veined quartz. “The kitchen has a very nice vibe,” says the designer, who loves that the chef can

watch both his recipe and the waves. With the main living spaces all connected, Rich strove to coordinate elements, such as the luggage color harmonizing both kitchen and dining room seating by West Elm.

Sitting in a sky-high glass alcove, the dining room uses abstract art by Uttermost to introduce “very sophisticated, bold, vibrant colors” and mirrored circular wall art to reflect light, Rich says. Another highlight—carefully curated so as not to block nature’s glory—is a contemporary LED fixture whose clean lines “coordinate beautifully with the rectangular table,” she explains. With its X base and beachy weathered wood, this table can suit a gathering, as last Thanksgiving demonstrated, and still get style points. To define the dining space and add warmth, Rich relied

This page: A three-dimensional effect makes this West Elm media cabinet (visible from the living room’s sectional) a wonder with wood patterns. Opposite page: Bold art pieces, including a mirrored circular wall hanging, offer a contemporary statement in the dining-room alcove.

Balconies galore make wave watching easy and breezy in this high-rise condo. Even the bedroom, with its blue velvet, king-sized platform bed, has a balcony alcove perfect for dining or just soaking up rays.

on a gray-and-white striped wool rug by Masland Carpets over gray wide-plank flooring.

In the living room, Rich again let the view take center stage by reining in the height of the tweedy, performance-fabric sectional, accented with zebra and yarn pillows and paired with a black leather ottoman. She then grounded the sitting area with a Nyland geometric rug in gray and black.

“I wanted the walls to be filled with something really eye-catching,” says Rich, who went bold with a 6-foot-long oil on canvas by Uttermost in a monochromatic space.

To truly appreciate the beach day or night, the bedroom—with its blue velvet, king-sized platform bed, mid-century nightstands and marble lamps—offers a

balcony alcove. A style statement perfect for outdoor living is the rope-and-metal furniture by Southern Home that joins black-and-white accented loungers and cabana-striped chairs. There’s other balcony space as well, all enclosed by glass, so “there’s nothing that prevents you from looking straight to the ocean,” Rich says. The bedroom itself offers sophistication and serenity for the man who gave up skyscrapers.

Working from home never looked so good. It’s a case of how “life changes provide opportunities,” the designer says. After COVID, “people just continued to work from home, so he decided to change his home.”

For her client, who prizes the comfort of his setting, every possible room now passes the workspace test.

QUALITY ON A DEADLINE

A FAMILY WANTED THEIR REBUILT BAY HEAD BEACH HOME TO BE PERFECT, BUT THEY ALSO DIDN’T WANT TO MISS A SINGLE DAY OF SUMMER.

Design by Beth Insabella Walsh, Insabella Design

Photography by Wing Wong/MemoriesTTL

Text by Donna Rolando

For a new Bay Head beach house surrounded by water views, a relative of the homeowner (who doubles as a Philadelphia mill worker) designed the spalted maple table that wows a yellow-accented dining room with Christopher Peacock built-ins.

The clock started ticking on Labor Day 2020, and it was a big job. When the folks at Little Silver-based Insabella Design took on a family’s Bay Head summer home—a complete demo, reconstruction and redesign—they knew they faced a challenge. The homeowner family wanted everything done by Memorial Day of ’21. And what they especially didn’t want was to compromise on quality.

“When you have a beach house, you only have four or five months to really soak it in,” explains the lady of the house. The homeowners did not want to break what has become a tradition for them and their four children (ages 20–30) since they purchased the retreat some five years ago.

That gave Beth Insabella Walsh (IIDA, ASID, CID) and her design team just 150 days to finish. The family “did not miss a season,” affirms Walsh, adding that neither did they compromise on the sophisticated, casual style that graces each room kissed by nature with Atlantic or Twilight Lake views.

These longtime Shore aficionados had started renovating two years prior, but now dared to dream big, working with Walsh and Peter Dorne Architects on a new beach house and third-floor addition. Why the change? With four children and potential grandkids, expansion made sense, explains the homeowner, but the real “decision maker” was the question of structural stability.

Warm and welcoming, with a cedar roof and natural shingles, the colonial-style refuge today is a testament to industriousness and organization, as Walsh salvaged the previous structure’s almost-new fixtures and furniture for her environment-conscious clients. Indoor-outdoor fabrics are a common thread for longevity—and easy-care, while another constant is wide-plank maple flooring by Floors by the Shore and hidden acoustics by Infinite AV.

For socializing or just family time, an open floor plan connects the kitchen, dining and living rooms— each with its own style sensations. The dining room’s

This page: Elevating repurposing to an art, designer Beth Insabella Walsh resized a master bedroom comforter to brighten this Eastern-inspired guest room. Opposite page: Thibaut’s jellyfish punch up this guest bathroom’s walls with a joyful orange and blue— perfect for kids in adjoining bunkrooms.

highlight—by a Philadelphia mill worker (and relative)—is a spalted maple table “your eye is drawn to,” Walsh says. Yellow accents the bamboo-frame chairs and herringbone rug, and for a “hidden surprise” even the welts of the barrelhead chairs. The built-ins complement Thibaut’s Cape May wave grass cloth; they’re by Christopher Peacock, and they’re inspirational in the timeless blue-and-white marble kitchen.

With much being salvaged, Walsh proved adept at spreading the design’s fun spirit with repurposed furniture as well as new. One case in point is the third-floor guest room, “bright and happy” with its green-and-orange comforter cut to fit a woven queen bed. A taste of the Orient graces the nightstands and dresser, while a bench seems to float on acrylic—all repurposed, like the woven bamboo shades.

Highlighting the home’s orange-and-navy palette, the guest bathroom adjoining two bunkrooms is a “pop

of fun” with Thibaut’s jellyfish wallpaper, Walsh says. A classic double vanity gets kids cleaned up fast, while chalk-white Nemo flooring contrasts with wavy blue shower tile.

Navy and white team up in a son’s ocean-view bedroom, extending to the bed ensemble and herringbone rug. Much of the furniture—from Oriental lamps on navy lacquer nightstands to a former foyer mirror—shows the art of repurposing.

With Schmacher wallpaper resembling sea grass, a daughter’s bathroom has more of a beach vibe, says Walsh—it continues with the shower’s sea-glass penny rounds and blue wavy wall tile. The classic vanity and large-format flooring create simple charm.

When the demanding deadline was met, it was one happy family that returned on Memorial Day. Says the homeowner: “We knew it was going to be a huge challenge to complete it, but we did.”

This page: The classic combo of navy and white sets the tone in an older son’s bedroom, where new style results from repurposing. Opposite page: A daughter’s bathroom is a nod to the ocean with Schmacher wallpaper evoking the feeling of sea grass.

COLOR RULES

It’s impossible to overstate what painting does for a room’s design. It is the foundation of the vibe and visual story of a space. The color of the walls can make a room warm and cozy—or surprising—or forbidding. While there are different ways to “get it right,” these are decisions you surely don’t want to get wrong. MONMOUTH sought out five designers in our county; their advice can help you choose paints wisely and coordinate them with the other elements of the design you’re striving for.

Choosing paints is one of the key requirements for your design project. Here’s help from five local experts.

OUR EXPERTS:

Tara Dowd, Tara Dowd Interior Designs, Manasquan

Maria Martarella, Genuine Interiors, Red Bank

Christina Melendez, Home Sweet Home Designs, Manalapan

Jill Ryan, Jill Ryan Interiors, Tinton Falls

Teresa Tumminia, At Home Custom Interiors, Cream Ridge

CHOOSE YOUR PAINT TYPE

Though there are pros and cons to every kind of paint you can choose, oil-based paints have fallen out of favor recently. Maria Martarella explains: “Oil-based paint is no longer so commonly used because of the longer drying time and stronger odor. It’s preferred for high-durability applications like trim work and surfaces prone to moisture, though.” Oli-based paints also are being phased out for their high volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are bad for both the environment and home air quality. As alternatives, Martarella cites newer paint options that are growing in popularity and slowly becoming her go-tos. “I’m particularly excited about alternatives like milk paint, clay paint and soy-based paint, which offer sustainability, low VOCs and unique textures for stunning designs. All low-VOC options are increasingly popular, as is chalk paint, which is valued for furniture refinishing and decorative projects because of its matte finish and easy application.” Tara Dowd points out the growing popularity of limewash and Roman clay, particularly in kitchen spaces. “Roman clay provides a stucco and marble-like effect,” she says, “similar to Venetian plaster, which creates that organic, rustic vibe.”

START WITH THE FINISH

Debating among flat, eggshell, satin and high-gloss? All our experts agree that texture is the first thing to consider when choosing a paint finish. “Paints with a high sheen like semi-gloss will show more surface imperfections,” says Teresa Tumminia. “Take this into consideration when working with dark colors or older homes.” She adds: “I’m loving matte finishes at the moment. They’re wonderfully smooth and give the perfect velvety backdrop to fabrics and furnishings.” On the other hand, glossy paint finishes are also easier to clean; they’re often used in high-traffic areas for this reason. Says Martarella: “Use semi-gloss or high-gloss paints for decorative molding, door and window trim and base molding, as they offer durability and easy cleaning.”

Christina Melendez likes eggshell finishes for trim and molding, “to add a touch of reflection without shine.” In general, the first question to ask when choosing a finish, according to Ryan, is the space’s function. “I advise clients to choose finish specifications based on the room and what it will be used for,” she says. Using a totally flat finish on a high-traffic area will result in the paint needing regular maintenance.

PICK AN APPEALING CEILING

It’s easy to forget about what has been called your “fifth wall.” But all of our experts encourage paying attention to the ceiling—its hue can completely transform a room’s feeling. As Jill Ryan says, “The ceiling is not to be overlooked. You can add drama with a dark hue or a bold pop of color, while a light-colored paint can add a touch of interest instead of the typical white color.” Tumminia echoes that sentiment, adding that ceiling color is particularly important for controlling the perceived size of a space: “Painting it a subtle, light color will make a ceiling appear higher and give the room a more open feel. Make sure you pick a shade lighter than the walls if that’s your goal. On the other hand, if your room has very high ceilings and feels cold instead of cozy, then painting the ceiling a darker color will bring the ceiling down and warm it up.” Melendez goes a step further, saying, “What I love for a ceiling is adding a texture with shiplap for a dramatic touch.”

TEND TO THE TRIM

This is a part of a room where everyone encourages you, the homeowner, to let your style and personality shine through. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, consider your own taste and the overall look and story of a room. If you’re seeking guidance, though, Melendez says you can rarely go wrong with a classic.

“A clean, bright white trim is not only what’s trending, but is also always in style,” she says. “It gives a certain brightness and allows any wall color to have its moment.” Ryan echoes her love of white trim, and also encourages you to expand what you’re trimming. “For a moody look, you can trim a library, a millwork area or a built-in.” Dowd, on the other hand, enjoys the look of pure coordination that comes from matching the trim and wall colors. “I love this look, as it brings cohesion and expansion to the space.” Finally, Tumminia offers advice for those tempted to go bold: “I like bold trim in small spaces, like powder rooms,” she says. “People make the mistake of staying small in small rooms, but they’re a great place to make a statement. Larger trims look great in dark colors, so don’t be afraid to go a few shades darker than the wall color.”

SPEAK WITH THE ACCENTS

Accent walls exist to create visual interest, and to break up the flow of a room. Ryan likes them in rooms that need an extra something to complete them, but not too much. “They’re a good way to add pattern or color to a room without overdoing it,” she says. All of our designers caution that accent walls can make a smaller room feel even more closed in—they should be used carefully in that environment. When’s the best time to use them? Counsels Martarella: “To make them work best, choose a wall with no windows or doors, use a color that complements the overall palette and ensure it doesn’t overwhelm the space.” Melendez encourages everyone to expand their definition of what an accent wall is. It doesn’t need to be accomplished only by painting one wall a different color. “I don’t love having an uber-modern, mid-century accent wall in a traditional colonial, for instance,” she says. “However, a beautiful wallpaper or some trim work can be stunning, and that doesn’t have to be on every wall of a room.” The accent wall should be the focal point of the room, or enhance a focal point that is already there—for instance, a vanity in a powder room, or a fireplace in a family room. Tumminia adds: “I tend to stay away from sharp contrasts with the other wall colors and keep the trim a more muted color, so the accent wall doesn’t look outlined.”

How Sweet It Is!

These chocolate delights are a perfect treat any time of year— and you won’t feel guilty going back for more.

TASTES

LIGHT & DARK CHOCOLATE MOUSSE

Yields 4 servings

INGREDIENTS

n 1/2 cup plain chocolate

n 1/2 cup white chocolate

n 5 oz. double cream

n 3 large eggs, separated

n 2 Tbs. orange flavored liqueur, brandy or rum (optional)

n crumbled chocolate waferbar or cocoa for garnish

DIRECTIONS

Break the two chocolates into two small bowls, melt in the microwave or place one at time over a pan of simmering water. Cool slightly.

Lightly whip the cream until it forms soft peaks. Whisk the egg whites in a separate bowl until they are shiny and stiff.

Stir the liqueur (optional) and two egg yolks into the dark chocolate, then fold in one third of the cream and half the egg whites.

Stir the remaining egg yolk into the white chocolate, then fold in the remaining cream and egg whites.

Layer the two mousses into four glasses and decorate with grated chocolate. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.

“Dark chocolate can provide health benefits when eaten in moderation. The cocoa provides antioxidants and minerals which may help protect from heart disease. This type of chocolate also has anti-inflammatory effects and properties that help prevent blood clots and lower blood pressure.”

—Michelle Gursky, registered dietitian, Destination Wellness, Manalapan

TASTES

CHOCOLATE MOUSSE TUILES WITH FRESH RASPBERRIES

Yields 4 servings

INGREDIENTS

n 1 14.5 oz. can coconut cream or full-fat coconut milk

n 1/2 cup dark chocolate of choice, chopped

n 1 tsp. coconut oil

n 2 Tbs. maple syrup

n 1 tsp. vanilla extract

n store-bought chocolate cups (e.g. glassine chocolate candy cups)

DIRECTIONS

In a large bowl, add the coconut cream/milk. Using a hand mixer, beat for about one minute, until smooth and creamy, then set that aside.

Next, in a small bowl, melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil. Do this in the microwave in two 30-second increments, stirring in between each interval until the chocolate is smooth and creamy. If you don’t use a microwave, simply melt the chocolate and coconut oil over a pan of simmering water.

Pour the chocolate into the bowl with the coconut cream/milk, along with the maple syrup and vanilla.

Use the hand mixer again, and beat until combined well, and the mixture is smooth and creamy, using a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl.

Divide the mixture evenly among 4 chocolate cups. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up to a thick consistency. Top each one with fresh raspberries and enjoy!

“Including raspberries in the recipe provides more fiber, as they are more fiber-rich than most fruits. Fiber helps to lower blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol.”

—Michelle Gursky, registered dietitian, Destination Wellness, Manalapan

TOP REAL ESTATE AGENTS 2024 MONMOUTH COUNTY’S

MONMOUTH COUNTY IS HOME TO SOME OF THE MOST SEASONED AND TALENTED REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS IN THE COUNTRY. To help readers find the best agents to work with, Monmouth magazine contracted DataJoe Research of Boulder, Colorado to facilitate a multi-faceted research campaign. It consisted of an online survey delivered directly to agents across Monmouth County via email as well as internet research. In the survey, real estate agents were asked to provide sales volume ranges and also nominate their peers. In the Internet campaign, DataJoe consulted a variety of websites to build richer knowledge of individual licensed real estate agents across the county.

DataJoe checked and confirmed that each published winner had, at the time of review, a current, active license status with the appropriate state regulatory board. If they were not able to find evidence of a real estate agent’s current, active registration with the state regulatory board, that real estate agent was excluded from the list. Finally, DataJoe presented the tallied results to Monmouth magazine for final review.

We recognize that there are many good real estate agents who are not shown on the representative list. This is only a sampling of the huge array of talented professionals within the county.

ASBURY PARK

KAREN MOSES

Redfin

619 Lake Ave. Asbury Park, NJ 07712 732-479-8867

EATONTOWN

MICHELE ASHKENAZI

Schecher Realty, Inc. 76 Broad St. Eatontown, NJ 07724 732-542-1990

FREEHOLD

MELISSA DESANTIS

Real Broker, LLC 218 Schanck Rd. Freehold, NJ 07728 732-757-2522 732-210-9973

DREW ROBUSTELLI

RE/MAX Homeland Realtors

42 E. Main St., Suite 101 Freehold, NJ 07728

718-200-2413

732-462-2222

HOLMDEL

PASCALE COPPOLA

Heritage House Sotheby’s International Realty

38 Main St. Holmdel, NJ 07733

908-902-0404

732-946-9200

DOREEN DEMARCO

Berkshire Hathaway

HomeServices Fox & Roach

Realtors

963 Holmdel Rd., Unit 1 Holmdel, NJ 07733

732-241-5015 732-946-3200

RON ISON

Keller Williams Realty Central Monmouth

952 Holmdel Rd. Holmdel, NJ 07733

917-974-1915

732-945-5253

LONG BRANCH

CATHY ADES

Cathy Ades Real Estate

369 Monmouth Rd. Long Branch, NJ 07764 732-996-5619

732-413-0040

MANALAPAN

ROMAN BALANDIN

Roman Balandin Realty

198 Route 9, Suite 102 Manalapan, NJ 07726

732-887-7343

732-786-3838

JASON GUMNITZ

RE/MAX Central

520 Route 9 North Manalapan, NJ 07726

732-740-3017

732-972-1000

THERESA LEE

Coldwell Banker Realty

335 Route 9 South Manalapan, NJ 07726

732-241-5851

732-462-4242

GREGORY PAPALCURE

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices New Jersey Properties

357 Route 9 South Manalapan, NJ 07726 732-539-4054 732-536-1200

GEORGE PAVLUSHKIN

RE/MAX Central

520 Route 9 North Manalapan, NJ 07726

732-984-8300 732-972-1000

BRIAN TEITEL

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach Realtors

357 Route 9 South Manalapan, NJ 07726 732-616-5499 732-536-4003

MIDDLETOWN

ERIC BOSNIAK

Coldwell Banker Realty 864 Route 35 Middletown, NJ 07748 732-245-0340 732-842-3200

JUSTIN EBERLE

Coldwell Banker Realty

864 Route 35 Middletown, NJ 07748 908-433-1781 732-842-3200

DENNIS FRESHNOCK

RE/MAX First Class

113 Tindall Rd. Middletown, NJ 07748 908-601-6692 732-842-8420

CHRISTOPHER WALSH

eXp Realty

113 Tindall Rd. Middletown, NJ 07748 732-309-5502

732-933-0200

MILLSTONE TOWNSHIP

DAVID BORRERO

RE/MAX Homeland West 494 Monmouth Rd., Unit 6 Millstone Township, NJ 08510 917-681-2603

609-208-1800

MONMOUTH BEACH

WENDY CAMBRIA

O’Brien Realty LLC

37 Beach Rd. Monmouth Beach, NJ 07750 917-716-5988

732-229-3532

LISA ENGLISH

O’Brien Realty LLC

37 Beach Rd. Monmouth Beach, NJ 07750 201-951-7036

732-229-3532

RICHARD E. NAGEL

RE/MAX Elite

27 Beach Rd., Suite 4 Monmouth Beach, NJ 07750 732-820-1425

732-870-6300

KERRIN O’BRIEN

O’Brien Realty LLC

37 Beach Rd. Monmouth Beach, NJ 07750 917-567-0684

732-229-3532

EDWIN OELS

O’Brien Realty LLC

37 Beach Rd. Monmouth Beach, NJ 07750 908-447-4280

732-229-3532

MORGANVILLE

GEORGE “ADAM” RUSS

Keller Williams Realty West

Monmouth

50 Route 9 North, Building B Morganville, NJ 07751 631-241-7650

732-536-9010

OCEAN GROVE

STACY STEFANI

Jack Green Realty

72 Main Ave. Ocean Grove, NJ 07756 646-599-4311

732-776-6400

RED BANK

CHRISTIAN GIAMANCO

eXp Realty 213 Route 35 Red Bank, NJ 07701

732-996-1292

732-933-0200

GARY THOMSON

Century 21 Thomson & Co.

254 Route 35

Red Bank, NJ 07701

908-601-6932

732-945-7035

MAUREEN YETMAN

Century 21 Thomson & Co. 254 Route 35

Red Bank, NJ 07701

732-687-3186

732-945-7035

TOP REAL ESTATE LISTINGS

RUMSON

SCOTT GILBERT

O’Brien Realty LLC

126 E. River Rd. Rumson, NJ 07760

732-241-7120

ROBERT HASPEL

Preferred Properties Real Estate

105 E. River Rd. Rumson, NJ 07760

732-778-7852

732-224-9200

ELIZABETH LUBIN

Heritage House Sotheby’s International Realty

1 W. River Rd. Rumson, NJ 07760 732-236-9330

732-842-8100

MARIO VENANCIO

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach Realtors

110 Ave. of Two Rivers Rumson, NJ 07760 732-881-4306

732-530-2800

KELLY ZACCARO

Heritage House Sotheby’s International Realty

1 W. River Rd. Rumson, NJ 07760

732-492-8224

732-842-8100

SEA GIRT

DENISE DREYER

Ward Wight Sotheby’s International Realty 522 Washington Blvd.

Sea Girt, NJ 08750 201-819-2604

732-449-5959

PATRICIA MAYER

Diane Turton Realtors 512 Washington Blvd. Sea Girt, NJ 08750 908-309-9374

732-974-8700

SHREWSBURY

MICHAEL GRUOSSO

Keller Williams Realty East Monmouth

750 Broad St., Suite 1 Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 908-489-4107

732-704-4033

SPRING LAKE

LAUREN GILL

Diane Turton Realtors

1216 3rd Ave.

Spring Lake, NJ 07762

732-996-4865

732-449-4441

STEVEN PORZIO

Coldwell Banker Realty

1122 3rd Ave.

Spring Lake, NJ 07762

732-691-1668

732-449-2777

GREGORY RICE

Coldwell Banker Realty

1122 3rd Ave. Spring Lake, NJ 07762

917-532-2735

732-449-2777

MICHAEL SKEA

Ward Wight Sotheby’s International Realty

1117 3rd Ave. Spring Lake, NJ 07762

732-272-5898

732-449-3322

EDWARD SZUMSKI

Berkshire Hathaway

HomeServices Fox & Roach Realtors

1101 3rd Ave. Spring Lake, NJ 07762

732-859-3751

TINTON FALLS

DANIELLE COYLE

RE/MAX Select

4001 Asbury Ave., Suite 1L Tinton Falls, NJ 07753 732-598-0428

ABERDEEN

MONICA KLOC

RE/MAX Imperial

1071 Route 34 Aberdeen, NJ 07747 732-895-9135

SUSAN GRACE MCGOWAN

Hometown Residential Realty

1061 Route 34 Aberdeen, NJ 07747 732-614-4025 732-583-8888

ASBURY PARK

ANTHONY GONZALEZ

Redfin

619 Lake Ave. Asbury Park, NJ 07712 732-860-0489

WILLIAM HAGAN

eXp Realty 910 1st Ave. Asbury Park, NJ 07712 732-245-7665

SHANNON MITCHELL

Space & Company

410 Bond St. Asbury Park, NJ 07712 848-448-6302 732-427-8453

KENNETH RICKEL

Space & Company

410 Bond St. Asbury Park, NJ 07712 732-245-4833 732-427-8453

AVON-BY-THE-SEA

BRENDA CONNOLLY

The Connolly Agency

216 Main St. Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ 07717 732-272-7700

732-361-0800

CHERYL SULLIVAN

The Connolly Agency

216 Main St. Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ 07717

973-220-2918

732-361-0800

BELFORD

VINCENT ALU

Lighthouse Realty of NJ, LLC 892 Main St. Belford, NJ 07718

732-670-6565

732-884-8151

BRADLEY BEACH

PATRICK PARKER

Patrick Parker Realty LLC

523 Main St. Bradley Beach, NJ 07720

201-788-6182

732-455-5252

EATONTOWN

ANNA GARIFINE

RE/MAX Synergy

246 Route 35 Eatontown, NJ 07724

732-245-2484

732-460-4111

FAIR HAVEN

STACIE BENDER

Compass New Jersey, LLC

623 River Rd. Fair Haven, NJ 07704 973-818-9668

732-936-5248

ELAINE EADON

Christie’s International Real Estate New Jersey 756 River Rd. Fair Haven, NJ 07704 732-778-4400 732-800-5050

JACALYN GRIECO

Compass New Jersey, LLC 623 River Rd. Fair Haven, NJ 07704 732-213-6640 732-936-5248

PAUL KIERNAN

RE/MAX Paradigm Realty Group 740 River Rd., Suite 206 Fair Haven, NJ 07704 732-492-7271 732-492-7271

SUZANNE VENINATA

Douglas Elliman Real Estate 803 River Rd., Suite 101 Fair Haven, NJ 07704 646-279-2373 732-387-3807

RANKA VUCETIC

Compass New Jersey, LLC 623 River Rd. Fair Haven, NJ 07704 732-936-5248 732-252-2460

FREEHOLD

VIKTORIA ADAMOV

Realty ONE Group CentralFreehold 17 Broad St. Freehold, NJ 07728 848-391-6336 732-348-3777

TIMOTHY J. O’ROURKE

RE/MAX Homeland Realtors 42 E. Main St., Suite 101 Freehold, NJ 07728 347-693-8565 732-462-2222

FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP

RICHARD ADAMSKI

eXp Realty 4400 Route 9 South, Suite 1000 Freehold Township, NJ 07728 908-982-4009

HAZLET

ANGELA DORSI

RE/MAX Imperial 684 Holmdel Rd. Hazlet, NJ 07730 732-313-0374

HOLMDEL

SHERYL B. DENTE

Weichert Realtors

43 E. Main St. Holmdel, NJ 07733

732-946-9400

CATHERINE ERKAL

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach Realtors

963 Holmdel Rd., Unit 1 Holmdel, NJ 07733

732-778-7000

732-946-3200

DAVID HOEVE

Keller Williams Realty Central Monmouth

952 Holmdel Rd. Holmdel, NJ 07733

201-315-9157

732-945-5253

CARISSA MARSHALL

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach Realtors

963 Holmdel Rd., Unit 1 Holmdel, NJ 07733 908-601-8487

732-946-3200

GERINE SKAMARAK

Exit Realty East Coast 57 E. Main St. Holmdel, NJ 07733 908-902-4778

BARRY WEINSTEIN

Weichert Realtors 43 E. Main St. Holmdel, NJ 07733

732-715-1222

732-946-9400

KEYPORT

SUSAN MONTANTI

Driftwood Real Estate Group 158 Main St. Keyport, NJ 07735 732-888-0041

LINCROFT

DAVID SGALAMBRO

Melrose Realty 631 Newman Springs Rd. Lincroft, NJ 07738 908-484-6232

LONG BRANCH

CHRIS KATZ

RE/MAX Synergy 95 Brighton Ave. Long Branch, NJ 07740 732-859-8505

732-768-3329

MANALAPAN

LORI BOCCHIERI-BENNETT

RE/MAX Central 520 Route 9 North Manalapan, NJ 07726 732-239-8044 732-972-1000

KATHRYN DECKER

Coldwell Banker Realty

335 Route 9 South Manalapan, NJ 07726

732-995-2042

732-462-4242

GIUSEPPE DIMAGGIO

Coldwell Banker Realty

335 Route 9 South Manalapan, NJ 07726

732-551-1104

732-462-4242

ROSEMARY DIPASQUALE

RE/MAX Central

520 Route 9 North Manalapan, NJ 07726

917-767-3008

732-972-1000

JULIE ANN KING

RE/MAX Central

520 Route 9 North Manalapan, NJ 07726

732-598-2222

732-972-1000

ALAN KURLANDER

Coldwell Banker Realty

335 Route 9 South Manalapan, NJ 07726

732-284-6302

732-462-4242

DANIELLE LAZZARO

Coldwell Banker Realty

335 Route 9 South Manalapan, NJ 07726

732-533-3933

732-462-4242

RAFFAELE MARINO

Coldwell Banker Realty

335 Route 9 South Manalapan, NJ 07726

732-713-3193

732-462-4242

GINA PAPPONE

RE/MAX Central

520 Route 9 North Manalapan, NJ 07726

908-770-4896

732-972-1000

GIOVANNI RANDAZZO

RE/MAX Central

520 Route 9 North Manalapan, NJ 07726

646-533-4299

732-984-4141

MARLBORO

GLENN AARONSON

Red Door Realty

34 N. Main St. Marlboro, NJ 07747

732-616-8020

732-462-4242

AMY ARNONE

Jason Mitchell Real EstateNew Jersey, LLC

52 N. Main St., Suite C Marlboro, NJ 07746

917-626-3747

732-377-2602

LAWRENCE VECCHIO

VRI Homes Realty

27 N. Main St. Marlboro, NJ 07746

732-241-1090

732-264-9593

MATAWAN

JEFFREY KAGAN

KP Edgestone Realty

76 Main St.

Matawan, NJ 07747

646-246-5598

732-307-3200

JETHRO KWOK

RE/MAX Champions

755 Route 34

Matawan, NJ 07747

908-216-0970

732-441-3400

MIDDLETOWN

BARBARA ALVAREZ

Coldwell Banker Realty

864 Route 35

Middletown, NJ 07748

732-616-7093

732-946-9600

KATHRYN PEREZ

Coldwell Banker Realty

864 Route 35 Middletown, NJ 07748

732-581-9735

732-842-3200

NATALIE PERRONE

Coldwell Banker Realty 864 Route 35

Middletown, NJ 07748

732-895-3655

732-671-1000

JEANNE RICH

Coldwell Banker Realty 864 Route 35 Middletown, NJ 07748

732-439-0016

732-671-1000

MILLSTONE TOWNSHIP

ROBIN CITTONE

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach

Realtors

222 Millstone Rd. Millstone Township, NJ 08535 609-647-8659

MONMOUTH BEACH

KATHRYN BATEMAN

O’Brien Realty LLC

37 Beach Rd. Monmouth Beach, NJ 07750

732-403-9200

732-229-3532

DANIEL EFFENBERGER

O’Brien Realty LLC

37 Beach Rd. Monmouth Beach, NJ 07750

732-597-4312

732-229-3532

PATRICE GEORGE

O’Brien Realty LLC

37 Beach Rd. Monmouth Beach, NJ 07750 732-229-3532

LINDA JAMES

O’Brien Realty LLC

37 Beach Rd. Monmouth Beach, NJ 07750 732-229-3532

AMY PEAK JENGO

RE/MAX Elite

27 Beach Rd., Suite 4 Monmouth Beach, NJ 07750 732-299-1070

EMILY VALENTINO

O’Brien Realty LLC

37 Beach Rd. Monmouth Beach, NJ 07750

732-672-1398

732-229-3532

JOHN YABLONSKI

O’Brien Realty LLC

37 Beach Rd. Monmouth Beach, NJ 07750

860-913-6949

732-229-3532

MORGANVILLE

SUJATHA BHASKARA

Keller Williams Realty West

Monmouth

50 Route 9, Building B Morganville, NJ 07751 732-319-1340

732-536-9010

SPENCER FREEDMAN

Keller Williams Realty West

Monmouth

50 Route 9, Building B Morganville, NJ 07751 732-685-9987

732-685-9987

LAURIN LALIMA

Century 21 Mack-Morris Iris

Lurie, Inc.

47 Route 9 South Morganville, NJ 07751 732-261-7288

732-536-2228

ANTOINETTE PAGANO

Keller Williams Realty West

Monmouth

50 Route 9, Building B Morganville, NJ 07751 732-604-0373

732-685-9987

JOSE SANCHEZ

Keller Williams Realty West

Monmouth

50 Route 9, Building B Morganville, NJ 07751

732-585-5100

732-416-4688

NEPTUNE CITY

BONNIE HOGAN

Nelson Realtors

2300 Route 33

Neptune City, NJ 07753 732-614-9581

732-774-4499

CINDY NELSON

Nelson Realtors 2300 Route 33

Neptune City, NJ 07753 732-774-5554

732-774-4499

OCEAN TOWNSHIP

JOE BAUMANN

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach Realtors

829 W. Park Ave.

Ocean Township, NJ 07712 732-221-0865 732-493-4900

JOANNE BOTWINICK

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach Realtors

829 W. Park Ave. Ocean Township, NJ 07712 732-236-3350 732-493-4900

RED BANK

CHRISTINE STOUT

Century 21 Thomson & Co. 254 Route 35 Red Bank, NJ 07701 732-241-7344 732-430-2700

RUMSON

BERNADETTE BARNETT

Heritage House Sotheby’s International Realty 1 W. River Rd. Rumson, NJ 07760 908-902-5035 732-842-8100

KELLY FERNANDES

Heritage House Sotheby’s International Realty

1 W. River Rd. Rumson, NJ 07760 908-489-5970 732-946-9200

PAMELA GIRARD

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach Realtors

110 Ave. of Two Rivers Rumson, NJ 07760 732-233-7158

MICHAEL A. MILANO

Diane Turton Realtors 8 W. River Rd. Rumson, NJ 07760 908-910-6334 732-530-6686

CHRISTOPHER PIZZOLA

Heritage House Sotheby’s International Realty

1 W. River Rd. Rumson, NJ 07760 732-575-6523 732-842-8100

SEA GIRT

PATRICK JOSEPH BUTERA

Berkshire Hathaway

HomeServices Fox & Roach

Realtors

600 Washington Blvd.

Sea Girt, NJ 08750 732-996-8030

CONNIE KING

Weichert Realtors 2165 Route 35

Sea Girt, NJ 08750 732-974-1000

SHREWSBURY

RIVER GIBERSON

Century 21 Thomson & Co. 794 Broad St. Shrewsbury, NJ 07702

609-276-8866

732-430-2700

ERIC HOFFMAN

Keller Williams Realty East Monmouth

750 Broad St., Suite 1 Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 732-239-0272

732-704-4033

DIANNA OLSON

Heritage House Sotheby’s International Realty 848 Broad St. Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 732-233-9310

732-842-3434

JERILYN RESTIVO

Heritage House Sotheby’s International Realty

848 Broad St. Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 732-241-5281

732-842-3434

SPRING LAKE

SUSAN BASTARDO

Coldwell Banker Realty

1122 3rd Ave. Spring Lake, NJ 07762 732-245-5848

732-449-2777

RICHARD L. DAVIDSON

RE/MAX Revolution

1218 3rd Ave. Spring Lake, NJ 07762 732-859-7239

732-223-0547

CINDY NAPP

Diane Turton Realtors

1216 3rd Ave. Spring Lake, NJ 07762 732-859-7808

732-449-4441

COLLEEN A. TOBIN

Diane Turton Realtors 1216 3rd Ave. Spring Lake, NJ 07762 732-213-5166

732-449-4441

SPRING LAKE HEIGHTS

STEPHANIE LISKOWITZ

Keller Williams Spring Lake 2005 Route 71 Spring Lake Heights, NJ 07762 908-720-1877

848-220-7120

WEST LONG BRANCH

ROBERT SHIRVANIAN, JR.

Exit Realty East Coast 964 Broadway West Long Branch, NJ 07764 732-768-3546

877-778-3948

Kerry O’Brien

O’Brien Realty

kerry@obrienrealtyllc.com |

KERRY O’BRIEN IS THE #1 WATERFRONT AGENT IN MONMOUTH COUNTY AND ONE OF THE TOP PRODUCERS IN NJ.

She has dedicated her career to establishing the family-owned firm she co-founded with her partner, Tammy, as synonymous with exceptional customer service and outstanding results. With a successful brokerage career spanning many years, Kerry has consistently attained the Platinum certification of the New Jersey Realtors’ Circle of Excellence Sales Award, earning recognition for her exceptional achievements.

Kerry’s commitment to offering guidance and sharing her extensive knowledge is unwavering, whether assisting clients or colleagues. She continuously explores innovative ways to enhance O’Brien Realty’s

resources and extend its reach, utilizing cutting-edge technology to showcase seller homes and provide buyers with comprehensive property insights. Moreover, the establishment of virtual offices in New York and Florida facilitates seamless relocations to and from popular destinations. O’Brien Realty also has offices in Monmouth Beach, Rumson, Long Branch, Oceanport, Atlantic Highlands, and just opened their 8th office in Asbury Park at the intersection of Cookman and Main Street!

Understanding the importance of maintaining positive relationships, Kerry ensures that all parties involved in negotiations feel valued. This approach not only streamlines her clients’ transitions but also solidifies the firm’s reputation as a collaborative partner among fellow New Jersey real estate professionals. A satisfied buyer in Monmouth Beach attests

to Kerry’s unparalleled expertise, describing her as savvy, insightful, and dedicated, ultimately becoming a trusted friend.

Rooted in the principles of trust, loyalty, and respect, O’Brien Realty has evolved from a small-scale enterprise into a prominent player in residential, multi-unit, and commercial real estate boasting eight offices and over 200 agents in less than a decade. Despite their growth, Kerry emphasizes that their core values and work ethic remain unchanged: a steadfast commitment to professionalism and prioritizing client needs above all else.

Clients recognize Kerry’s unmatched dedication to delivering exceptional outcomes. A seller in Rumson praises her ability to deliver results, citing Kerry’s proactive approach in securing a buyer for their high-end waterfront property and guiding them through every step of the selling process with professionalism and expertise.

A Monmouth Beach native, Kerry’s deep-rooted connection to her community is evident through her involvement on the Board of Trustees

for Monmouth Medical and as a board member of the Visiting Nurse Association. In her spare time, she dedicates herself to philanthropic endeavors, supporting local charities such as Shore to Help and the SPCA. Additionally, Kerry’s latest venture, the O’Brien Title Company, has seen considerable success, with plans to further enhance customer service through the introduction of O’Brien Moving Company, underscoring her team’s commitment to providing comprehensive support from start to finish. For more on the suite of O’Brien services, visit www.KerrinOBrien. com.

Ranka Vucetic Compass Real Estate

623 River Rd., Fair Haven, NJ 07704

C: 732.610.7010 • O: 732.530.6300

• ranka.vucetic@compass.com

BESPOKE SERVICE, hands-on advocacy and 25 years of experience; that’s the foundation of what Ranka brings to all of her clients’ real estate journeys. In line with her promise to provide personalized attention to each and every buyer and seller she represents, Ranka doesn’t work behind a team.

Operating independently means that Ranka gets to be fully hands-on with what she loves most about her job—building relationships and helping her neighbors. No matter what stage of the process they’re in, when a client needs something, Ranka answers the call and takes care of it herself. She loves facing and resolving the day-to-day challenges that are inherent in her line of work.

“She was outstanding,” says one former client, Alex. “Ranka is a true advocate. She advised us on every aspect of each transaction, from home inspection and certificate of occupancy to mortgage and closing.

She was present at all of the showings and insightful on each potential buyer. When it came to buying our new home, Ranka knew the market extremely well and provided candid observations on all the houses we viewed. Hands down the best realtor we’ve ever worked with.”

Over her 20+ years in real estate, Ranka has achieved Gold, Silver, and Bronze certification for the New Jersey Realtors’ Circle of Excellence Sales Award. Beyond her work ethic, personal approach, and extensive knowledge base, Ranka says she relies on her intuition and expert interpersonal skills to present the best options to buyers and highlight the intangible aspects of sellers’ homes. “Every house has a story,” she says, “and people are unique. You need to look past what a property has on paper and see what it has to offer real people living there. I consider that part of ‘knowing the market.’ It’s not just recalling facts and figures and spotting trends.”

Denise Dreyer, Realtor Associate GRI, ABR, SRS, SRES

Ward Wight Sotheby’s International Realty / Sea Girt

522 Washington Blvd., Sea Girt, NJ | O: 732.449.5959 | C: 201.819.2604

www.denisedreyer.com | ddreyer@wardwightsir.com

WITH OVER FIFTEEN YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE AT WARD WIGHT SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY, Denise exemplifies excellence in service, marketing, and creative solutions, setting her apart in the industry. She consistently ranks as a Company Top Producer - an accolade she has received in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2023. Her achievements also include being named a New Jersey Realtors Circle of Excellence Gold Sales Award winner and recognized as one of NJ’s Top Realtors by Real Trends.

Clients value Denise for her candid advice and commitment to ensuring low-stress transactions that optimize their investments. With nearly two decades of experience in buying, selling, and renting homes in New Jersey, her unparalleled knowledge of the local market is invaluable. Denise’s dedication to exceeding customer service standards is

unwavering. She thrives on surpassing client expectations at every stage of their journey, finding fulfillment in making their experiences exciting and rewarding.

Whether clients are first-time homebuyers, upgrading, or seeking luxury estates along the historic Jersey shore, Denise is equipped to navigate the diverse inventory in the area. In this dynamic market, her up-to-date awareness is a significant asset, ensuring clients are well-prepared to make informed decisions confidently.

Catherine “Catrina” Erkal

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, Realtors

963 Holmdel Rd., Unit 1, Holmdel, NJ 07733 | O: 732.946.3200 | C: 732.778.7000

www.catherineerkal.foxroach.com | catherine.erkal@foxroach.com

LOCAL EXPERTISE. STRONG RELATIONSHIPS: Catherine “Catrina” Erkal, an experienced realtor, seamlessly combines her deep local knowledge with extensive networking expertise. Her unwavering commitment and “always go the extra mile” attitude ensure that her clients achieve the desired results they deserve. With over two decades of experience, Catrina is dedicated to providing her clients with a stress-free journey by leveraging strategic marketing techniques and top-tier professional services. Her approach is powerful and remarkably effective, making every real estate transaction as rewarding as possible for her clients.

Clients like Francis from Holmdel appreciate Catrina’s exceptional service: “Catrina is the best realtor we have ever worked with. She was always available and had the best attitude. She treats clients equally, whether you’re looking to buy a million-dollar home or a rental.” Her commitment to excellence is further evidenced by her 5-Star Zillow rating, membership in the New Jersey Realtors Distinguished Sales Club, and consistent recognition in the NJ REALTORS® Circle of Excellence®. Catrina’s international background, having been born and raised in Athens, Greece, and having lived and worked in countries such as England, Australia, and Saudi Arabia, enriches her ability to connect quickly and naturally with a diverse clientele. This multicultural perspective enhances her practice in New Jersey, where she is a valued member of Monmouth Ocean, Middlesex, and Garden State Multiple Listing Services. Catrina’s extensive experience and personal approach to real estate make her a trusted partner for all her clients.

Jacalyn Grieco

Compass Real Estate

623 River Rd. Fair Haven, NJ 07704

C: 732.213.6640 • O: 732.936.5248 • jackie.grieco@compass.com • www.jacalyngrieco.com

JACKIE GRIECO KNOWS HOW TO GUIDE her clients through the largest investment of their lives. A licensed agent since 2010, Jackie brings many years of real estate experience as both a home owner and investor in Rumson, Red Bank, Sea Bright, Atlantic Highlands, Highlands, Monmouth Beach, and Spring Lake that allows buyers, sellers, investors and renters to feel comfortable in her knowledge of the local market and her clients’ goals.

A resident of Monmouth County for almost 30 years, Jackie understands the importance of a home’s first impression. She works closely with sellers and encourages them to utilize Compass Concierge—the hassle-free way to sell your home faster and for a higher price with services like staging, flooring, painting, and more. “I truly believe that I am the hardest working Realtor around,” she says. “If anyone has a question, I am always available to answer.”

In todays low inventory real estate enviroment, the significance of aligning with an agent who prioritizes your best interests cannot be overstated. Jackie is a consistent recipient of the NJ Realtors Circle of Excellence Sales Award and maintains a 5-Star Zillow rating. Jackie is passionate about supporting all new agents—mentoring and sharing her knowledge with them. She is admired by her loyal clientele and fellow agents.

Follow Jackie on Instagram @jackiegriecorealtor

Bernadette Barnett

Heritage House Sotheby’s International Realty

1 West River Rd., Rumson, NJ 07760 • O: 732.842.8100 • C: 908.902.5035 www.bernadettebarnett.com • bernadettebnj@gmail.com

IN AN INDUSTRY WHERE CAREERS ARE BUILT on word-of-mouth and results, Bernadette Barnett has been flourishing for over twenty years. “The bottom line,” she says, “is that I’m a hard worker dedicated to doing the best job possible for my clients. I love what I do, and my clients trust me.”

Bernadette is a four-time top producer at Heritage House Sotheby’s International Realty and an 11time Platinum New Jersey Realtors Circle of Excellence Sales Award winner. Recognized as one of 2022 Real Trends America’s Best Real Estate Professionals in New Jersey, it would be easy to assume that Bernadette’s sales and marketing acumen have led her to be frequently among the top one percent of realtors in Monmouth County. She believes her success is due equally to the relationships that she develops with her clients by being a hardworking advocate for their best interests.

Before she became a real estate agent, Bernadette relocated many times, living in New York, Connecticut, California, and Hong Kong before coming back to New Jersey. She experienced first-hand how important it is to partner with a realtor who is an excellent listener and communicator, and is willing to go the extra mile to make sure you find the right home. Those moves also showed her what it’s like to have to make a housing decision over the course of a single weekend—something that has become commonplace in today’s real estate market.

“The current market has been a challenge for buyers and sellers,” says Bernadette. “It’s my responsibility to guide both in making prompt, educated decisions that lead to the best outcome for them. Trust is paramount in my relationships with both buyers and sellers.”

Greg Papalcure

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

357 US-9, Manalapan, NJ 07726 O: 732.536.1200 C: 732.539.4054 • www.papalcure.com • greg.papalcure@foxroach.com

WITH A FORWARD-THINKING APPROACH AND PATIENT DEMEANOR, Greg’s commitment lies in cultivating enduring relationships with clients, assisting them in achieving their home sale or purchase goals. With a wealth of experience in the luxury market, Greg serves clients throughout Monmouth, Middlesex, and Ocean counties, ensuring they receive the service they deserve and the results they expect.

With over 20 years of real estate expertise, Greg has forged invaluable connections with service vendors, catering to the diverse needs of buyers and sellers throughout their transactions. His dedication and proficiency have earned him consistent recognition, including the esteemed Monmouth County Circle of Excellence Awards and a top-ranking position in Berkshire Hathaway Home Services nationwide. Notably, Greg has achieved multiple platinum awards, which are, a testament to his unwavering commitment and exceptional performance in the industry.

In addition to his accolades, Greg’s reputation as a reliable and knowledgeable realtor shows, making him the go-to professional for clients seeking personalized and effective real estate solutions. Whether assisting clients in finding their dream homes or facilitating seamless transactions, Greg’s dedication to excellence ensures unparalleled service and satisfaction for every client he serves.

TOP REAL ESTATE AGENTS

MONMOUTH COUNTY’S 2024 ELITE

Michael S. Skea, Broker Associate

Ward Wight Sotheby’s International Realty

1117 Third Ave., Spring Lake, NJ 07762

O: 732.449.3322 • C: 732.272.5898 • www.wardwightsir.com

WITH A UNIQUE, EXTENSIVE BACKGROUND IN THE HOMEBUILDING INDUSTRY, Michael Skea continues to deliver a fresh, comprehensive approach to every transaction he handles. For more than twenty years, Michael served as General Counsel, Vice President of Marketing and Sales and Director of Operations for several of New Jersey’s largest publicly traded and privately held homebuilders.

As a direct result of his many years as a Land Use and Transactional Real Estate attorney, Michael brings a heightened set of negotiation and communication skills. Together, with his pervasive marketing experience in homebuilding, he provides a rare blend of proficiencies benefiting each of his clients.

Michael has been ranked among America’s Best Real Estate Professionals by RealTrends from 2019 - 2023 and was designated as #11 in NJ in 2022. Michael is a consistent recipient of the New Jersey Realtors Circle of Excellence Award having achieved the highest Platinum status in 2018, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023.

As the Company’s Top Producer in 2022, Michael’s clients trust him to deliver a real estate experience that is satisfying and as stress-free as possible. He is privileged to work with his clients and prides himself in serving as their “Trusted Real Estate Advisor at the Jersey Shore”.

Anna Garifine, Broker/Associate, Owner RE/MAX SYNERGY

31 Church St., Little Silver, NJ 07739 | 95 Brighton Ave., Long Branch, NJ 07740 246 Rt. 35 S., Eatontown, NJ 07724 | C: 732.245.2484 | O: 732.870.1212

AnnaGSellsHomes@gmail.com | JerseyRealEstateSales.com | facebook.com/AnnaGSellsHomes

AS A LIFELONG JERSEY SHORE RESIDENT and a 25-year veteran in the local real estate market,Anna Garifine is dedicated to making homeownership dreams come true. She attributes her success to her many wonderful clients and their continued support and referrals. Anna enjoys working with both sellers and buyers and has developed a niche in new construction sales. An expert negotiator, she has a record of helping sellers get top dollar while guiding buyers on making successful bids. With offices in Long Branch, Eatontown and Little Silver, Anna is the managing partner at RE/MAX SYNERGY. Her passion for helping fellow agents grow their business is evident in the coaching and training she has implemented in her offices. Anna is an active participant with the Monmouth Ocean Regional Realtors where she serves on the MLS, Bylaws and Budget and Finance Committees and is the vice chair of the Grievance Committee. She also serves on the NJ REALTORS Risk Management Committee. In addition to being named a Top Realtor here for the 5th year, she is a ten-time FIVE STAR PRO winner and member of the RE/MAX Hall of Fame. For all of your real estate needs, trust in her expertise.

Suzanne Veninata, Salesperson

Douglas Elliman Real Estate

803 River Rd., Ste 101, Fair Haven, NJ 07704

O: 732.387.3807 • C: 646.279.2373 • www.elliman.com/suzanneveninata • Suzanne.Veninata@elliman.com

SUZANNE VENINATA SETS THE STANDARD IN REAL ESTATE, combining deep market knowledge with exceptional service, making her a leading local agent. With over 20 years of experience in Real Estate Finance, Suzanne not only navigates the complexities of buying and selling but also offers insider insights into the area’s finest dining, beauty, and local happenings. Now at the helm of her own team with Douglas Elliman, Suzanne specializes in strategic market analysis, home preparation, and staging, ensuring a seamless process from listing to closing. She is driving growth in New Jersey by leveraging her authenticity and unwavering commitment to her clients’ interests. These qualities have earned her top billing in 2024 at Douglas Elliman as the #1 Medium Team in NJ as well as a Pinnacle Award winner, recognizing her as part of the top 3% of agents nationwide in the company. Additionally, she has received multiple New Jersey Realtors Circle of Excellence Sales Awards.

Working with Suzanne means partnering with a dedicated, honest professional who blends expertise with a playful approach to deliver outstanding results. She embodies the promise, “With you every step of the way,” nurturing lasting relationships beyond the closing table. Her dedication to community shines through her involvement in local boards and educational foundations such as Monmouth Medical and VNA, Rumson Parent Teacher Organization and Rumson Education Foundation.

Choose Suzanne Veninata for an unparalleled real estate experience with an agent who’s truly invested in you and your lifestyle. REDEFINING REAL ESTATE, Melissa DeSantis leverages her expertise in buying and selling homes to ensure the best possible experience for her clients. A Monmouth County Elite Top Agent for 2021-2024 and recipient of the NJ REALTORS® Circle of Excellence Award since 2008, Melissa has a proven results-driven attitude. She is a full-time Broker Associate and the Managing Broker of

HOME & GARDEN SHOWCASE

ALL ABOUT CLOSETS

All About Closets, a familyowned business, 20 years strong.  Attention to detail and service are second to none.  Every company claims to have the best product and service, how can you as the consumer truly know?  35% of our business is referral based, read our highly rated  reviews on Google and call George, the owner on a Sunday as he will answer. All our products are backed by a lifetime warrantee for the life of the home.

732.858.5475 | WWW.ALLABOUTCLOSETSNJ.COM

AMERICAN DREAM HEATING AND COOLING LLC

American Dream Heating and Cooling LLC was created to meet the needs of our local New Jersey home owners. Here, at our company, we have a strong belief that every New Jersey resident deserves to get the top brand heating and air conditioning equipment and excellent service on a budget that he or she can afford. This is why American Dream Heating and Cooling LLC, which is currently the top leading provider of Trane equipment in Central New Jersey, is dedicated to keeping our prices low, while maintaining the same exceptional service as the other major companies. Our goal is to make you and your family happy, comfortable, and 100% satisfied with our job!

848.444.3386 | WWW.AMERICANDREAMAIR.COM

BACK YARD STRUCTURES

Backyard Structures has been a leading provider of superior quality sheds, pool houses and other outdoor structures in Monmouth County. Our Amish-built structures are the highest quality available, and our experienced staff can help you create your own outdoor retreat. A family-owned and operated business for more than 35 years, we offer customized and specialized services for residence and commercial customers.

513 ROUTE 36, BELFORD, NJ

732.495.8866 | WWW.BACKYARDSTRUCTURESNJ.COM

B&B SIDING AND ROOFING

We aim to revolutionize the home exterior sector into a style-centric journey, collaborating with clients to co-imagine their dream exteriors. Our design experts blend contemporary trends with timeless techniques. Upholding our values of transparency, integrity, and quality, we’ve revitalized over 5,000 homes and garnered hundreds of 5-star reviews. Enjoy $0 down financing and unparalleled lifetime warranties on materials and labor. Contact us to redefine your home’s exterior with confidence.

8 LEITRIM LANE, HAZLET, NJ

732.756.9909 | WWW.BBSIDING.COM

CADILLAC POOLS

Cadillac Pools is here to turn your backyard into a paradise! We provide a hassle-free solution for your pool openings and pool services in Monmouth County and Ocean County. We’re here to give you our best, where bigger isn’t better. Giving you the attention that you deserve with honesty and integrity. Serving Ocean & Monmouth County, our company staff holds over 30+ years of experience.

732.295.7946 | WWW.CADILLACPOOLS.COM

GPS SHOWROOMS

You’ll find plenty of “advice” when you embark on a home remodel, but there’s no substitute for real expertise. Since 1910, GPS design, supply, and remodel specialists have guided homeowners and contractors through countless unique and challenging projects. Whether you’re looking for the perfect faucet to garnish your kitchen masterpiece or looking to bathe in inspiration for your dream bathroom, stop by your local GPS Showroom for an exceptional experience, top brands, and unmatched service.

GPS SHOWROOMS: BAYONNE ∙ BERGENFIELD ∙

FLEMINGTON ∙ GREEN BROOK ∙ HAWTHORNE ∙

LAKEWOOD ∙ MATAWAN ∙ MORRIS PLAINS ∙ ORANGE ∙ PISCATAWAY | WWW.SHOPGPS.COM

KOHLER SIGNATURE STORES: EATONTOWN ∙ MANHASSET ∙ PARAMUS | WWW.KOHLERBYGPS.COM

NJ GRAVEL & SAND

Celebrating almost 90 years in business, our staff at family owned New Jersey Gravel & Sand brings a world-class level of attention and detail to your every landscape, hardscape, and natural stone need. We fabricate stone masterpieces for all interior and exterior applications, from fireplace hearths and mantels crafted with natural stone, to thin veneers, to stone used for outdoor kitchens, and custom pool coping. We carry a large in stock selection of Natural Stone, Flagstone and Veneer. Visit our website, Facebook or Instagram accounts and of course our amazing 23-acre stone yard to experience exciting new products and ideas.

1661 ROUTE 34 SOUTH, WALL, NJ 732.938.5252 | WWW.NJGRAVELSAND.COM

PMI INTERNATIONAL STONE IMPORTERS

Direct from the quarry to your home! PMI travels around the world hand selecting the highest quality natural stone for your project. From marble to quartzite and everything in between, we have one of the largest selections in the tri-state area. Our 30,000 sq. ft. indoor warehouse is open to the public and trades. Come visit us – we are eager to assist you in making the ideal stone selection for your project.

MARLBORO, NJ | ALBANY, NY |

RYSERS LANDSCAPE SUPPLY

It’s a great time to visit Ryser’s!  Their fabulous new showroom is filled and surrounded by everything you need to beautify your home inside and out! You can expect the same quality and service choosing from their huge selection of home decor, giftware and holiday supplies that you have come to expect when ordering things like mulch, stone and pavers!  The constantly changing displays, new products and whimsically designed layout makes Ryser’s a must-see destination!

145 WHITE RD., LITTLE SILVER, NJ 732.741.8338 | WWW.RYSERSLANDSCAPESUPPLY.COM

TOWN APPLIANCE

As one of the leading retailers in the Tri-State area, our company specializes in offering a wide selection of major appliances. We proudly feature both luxury and standard brands to accommodate every household’s needs and budget. Spanning 10,000 square feet, our expansive showroom invites customers to explore our vast product range in person. Alternatively, our interactive website allows for a real-time browsing experience. With a rich history spanning over 50 years, we’re dedicated to providing personalized service to every customer.

10 S CLIFTON AVE., LAKEWOOD NJ 732.364.5195 | WWW.TOWNAPPLIANCE.COM

WOODHAVEN

For over 45 years, Woodhaven has helped builders, contractors, and homeowners build better. Known for exemplary customer service and exceptional expertise, homeowners trust Woodhaven for kitchen and custom closet design, flooring, stairs and railings, windows and doors, and more. Our knowledgeable staff works with you to provide solutions that enhance your home and your enjoyment of it. Your home is likely the biggest investment you’ll ever make; we take that seriously and are honored to help bring your vision to life.

LAKEWOOD • MANAHAWKIN • POINT PLEASANT BEACH • SHREWSBURY

732.795.6200 | WWW.WOODHAVENLUMBER.COM

WORLDWIDE WHOLESALE FLOOR COVERINGS

For over 30 years, Worldwide has been proudly serving residents surrounding their four locations in Edison, Fairfield, Lawrenceville, and Old Bridge. While all locations offer the finest selection of brand name flooring, carpet, stair runners and custom rugs the Edison and Old Bridge locations feature Kitchen and Bath Studios offering the same fine quality in cabinets, countertops and more. From concept to installation, Worldwide’s sales experts, designers, and installers make their customers’ home updates and renovations a wonderful experience. NOW OPEN SEVEN DAYS.

1.888.WORLD40

WWW.WORLDWIDEWHOLESALE.COM

Home.

A Realtor® is the key.

Buying or selling a home can be stressful, but New Jersey Realtors® are the key to a successful homeownership journey. Not all real estate agents are Realtors®.

New Jersey Realtors®:

▪ Have access to proprietary data and education

▪ Possess the knowledge to guide you through any housing market

▪ Act as leading industry experts

When it comes to buying, selling, or renting in New Jersey—use a New Jersey Realtor®. Learn more at nj.realestate/find.

We know Jersey.

FINAL WALKTHROUGH

HOME REPAIRS

RESEARCH

FINDING A LENDER NEIGHBORHOOD AUTHORITY ASSESS CURB APPEAL FINAL WALKTHROUGH SUGGEST HIGH ROI UPDATES PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

POST-CLOSING ASSISTANCE EXPERT INDUSTRY PROFESSIONAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT NEW JERSEY CONNOISSEURRESIDENTIAL

RENTAL APPLICATION SHOWINGS V HOME PROPERTY MANAGEMENT NEW JERSEY CONNOISSEUR

Situated

NEIGHBORHOOD AMENITIES

12

Listed at $8,000,000

61

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Worth The Wait

Make a dash for Marlboro’s Bad Hat, the place for Asian fusion and creative cocktails.

A restaurant’s bar isn’t always the preferred setting for dinner for two, but sitting there can add to the dining experience—particularly at an eatery like Bad Hat Dumplings & Cocktails. Recently opened in Marlboro, the Asian fusion bistro has quickly gained a large following not only for its creative food menu, but also for its inventive mixology program.

Bad Hat’s fan base (along with the list of curious first-timers) is so large that scoring a table on weekends is a sport. Online reservations fill up a month in advance; walkins are welcome, but expect to wait a long, long time for bar-area high tops. Case in point: A friend and I tried our luck for a spot in the cozy bar space on a February Friday night, but we conceded defeat after 45 minutes.

Determined to test the hype, we returned the following day shortly after doors opened at 5 p.m. All tables in the main dining room were booked, of course, and parties already filled the high-tops. Luckily, we scored the last two seats at the bar, where we were greeted by bartender Adam, who was using a French press to concoct a drink. He immediately presented us with two cocktail menus, as if our eyes were screaming, “We need to try that now!”

The drink menu is filled with innovative sips, and each option listed includes the ingredients, the steps taken to prep the drink and an illustration of the vessel used for serving. My first cocktail was “I Knew a Khai, Once,” a perfectly balanced fruity and tangy take (flavors courtesy of Filipino calamansi juice and grapefruit, among other things) on a gin and tonic. Meanwhile, my friend was captivated by the peacock decanter used for her drink, “Rocknrolla.” Hers was a light and refreshing sip made with vodka, green tea, lychee and lemon—a great drink to start the night.

Picking drinks was easy, but choosing food was more of a challenge, as everything sounded great. From curry mussels and lobster tails to pork belly steamed buns and grilled short ribs, the options ran the gamut. (The menu rotates regularly.) We began our meal with sticky pork ribs, an order of fall-off-the-bone bites marinated in a mix of hoisin sauce, garlic and red chili and served over a bed of zesty slaw. The meat was tender, full of flavor

and abundant—add a couple more ribs and the plate could’ve been an entrée! Our second appetizer was shitakiyaki dumplings, a generous serving of fried dough pouches stuffed with shiitake mushrooms, shallots, ginger, garlic and other spices. These are the perfect bites for either a vegetarian or meat-eater, though a steamed option would make it a bigger crowd pleaser.

As much as we enjoyed our starters, dinner was even more impressive. The aforementioned lobster tails and short ribs were tempting, but I chose koji duck—and, boy, did I make a good choice. The half-bird was easily one of the best I’ve tried: The breast meat was moist and lean with very little fat, and the leg portion was of the same taste and quality. The flavor was the result of a five-spice marinade and sauce. The accompanying bok choy and purple sweet potato fries were also on point (and carefully plated), and they were so filling that I didn’t second-guess my decision to skip separate side dishes.

My friend, meanwhile, had wagyu beef udon, a heaping bowl of Japanese noodles with top-flight cuts of meat, mushroom, bok choy, kimchi and other veggies. Though the noodles weren’t as thick as she had hoped (they closely resembled ramen or lo mein noodles), the dish was packed with immense flavor that had both of us craving more.

At presstime, dessert wasn’t an option at Bad Hat, so we capped our night with a final, shared cocktail. Adam—who chatted with us all evening as he mixed drinks in front of us—knew from the start that the French press had caught my eye, so he wasn’t surprised when I ordered the cocktail that required it: “Poison Clan Rocks the World.” He and I engaged in a conversation about one of the ingredients, Nordic aquavit, and he explained how they infuse it with pear. The vodka-like spirit is one of five spirits used in the drink, which serves up to three people. Pro tip: It packs a serious punch without your knowing, so go ahead and split it with friends.

It may take more than one attempt to get into Bad Hat, but your efforts will be awarded when you finally get a spot. And judging by my recent experience, there’s not a bad seat in the house.

—Darius Amos

Photos by Darius Amos

CHRISTIAN BROTHERS ACADEMY

Christian Brothers Academy has built a reputation rooted in excellence, basing our educational philosophy on the Lasallian tradition. Each student creates his own legacy at the Academy through challenging academics, ever-present principles of faith and service, dynamic arts, championship athletics, and countless more activities. For over 65 years, CBA has developed young men of character, fostered an unparalleled brotherhood between students, and provided an exceptional foundation for our graduates to achieve their greatest aspirations.

CBA OFFICE OF ADMISSIONS

850 NEWMAN SPRINGS RD., LINCROFT, NJ 732.747.1959 EX.217 | WWW.CBALINCROFTNJ.ORG/ADMISSIONS

OAK HILL ACADEMY

Imagine your child’s future at Oak Hill Academyone of the finest independent schools for students in grades PreK-8 located on a beautiful 20 acre campus in Lincroft. Oak Hill’s intention is to provide a student centered curriculum that emphasizes strong communication, problem solving, and computational skills. Students develop positive social and emotional traits in a caring and engaging environment. Graduates gain acceptance and excel at many premiere high schools.

347 MIDDLETOWN-LINCROFT RD., LINCROFT, NJ 732.530.1343 | WWW.OAKHILLACADEMY.COM

Ranney School

Age 3 - Grade 12

You want the best for your child.

Give them every opportunity to succeed, in the arts and beyond.

At Ranney School, artistic expression is a crucial everyday element of a balanced education, helping us define who we are, see things in exciting new ways and communicate important ideas. With exceptional instructors and impressive facilities, our programs in drama, music, visual arts, public speaking and creative writing are designed to nurture the full range of artistic talent in every child. In every grade level, Ranney’s arts curriculum combines a broad foundation in the history and theory of art, music and drama with rigorous instruction in technique. It is complemented by an eclectic array of extracurricular opportunities on stage and in the studio. The result is a vibrant, creative community in which artistic achievement is valued as highly as academic and athletic performance.

Private tours available: www.ranneyschool.org/discover

RANNEY SCHOOL

At Ranney School, we know and value every child to inspire them to reach their highest potential at every stage of their educational journey. Ranney is an Age 3 through Grade 12 independent, co-ed, secular college preparatory school located in Tinton Falls. From our youngest learners to those looking ahead to college, Ranney students are prepared, challenged, and encouraged as individuals. Ranney offers an innovative, flexible curriculum and robust student life. Each student is supported by a team of educators and a nurturing community to pursue all of their passions.

235 HOPE RD., TINTON FALLS, NJ 732.542.4777 | WWW.RANNEYSCHOOL.ORG

Be There

From bikes and beers to beach cleanups and parades, there’s something for everyone this season in Monmouth.

APRIL 21

APRIL 6–21

Raise your cup to joy! To love! To life! The Algonquin Arts Theatre in Manasquan presents FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, the classic musical of faith, family, love and loss. The show is part of their 2023-24 Broadway Series. Both evening and matinee performances are available during the three-weekend run. See algonquinarts.org for ticket prices and more information.

APRIL 21

Comedy royalty is coming to Red Bank’s Count Basie Center for the Arts with WANDA SYKES’S PLEASE & THANK YOU TOUR The Emmy Award-winning Sykes, who has ranked on “Entertainment Weekly”’s 25 Funniest People in America list, brings her talents to Monmouth for a guaranteed to make you laugh out loud. The show starts at 7 p.m. Go thebasie.org for ticket information.

Help keep the county clean and join the EARTH DAY BEACH CLEANUP at Bayshore Waterfront Park in Middletown. Hosted by the nonprofit Save Coastal Wildlife and the Mnmouth County Parks System, this volunteer event aims to restore the beauty of New Jersey’s beaches. Sturdy shoes are recommended. Check the event listing on eventbrite. com for more information.

MAY 4

MAY 4

Bike rides and craft beer may seem like an unlikely combo, but it sure is a fun one. Try it out—responsibly, of course—for yourself at the BIKES & BEERS CYCLING EVENT, which kicks off at event sponsor Birdsmouth Beer in Oceanport. The day includes cycling as well as local food and drink. Choose between a 15-, 30- or 45-mile bike route that takes you through one of the most scenic areas of Monmouth. All levels of riding experience are welcome. Check out bikesandbeers.com for additional event into and bike course details.

12

Those with a passion for horses and harness racing can gallop over to the Freehold Raceway for the DEXTER CUP + LADY SUFFOLK TROT The races, p.m., are held a crowd of fans alike. While the sights of in the U.S. and ambiance and food cheering your pick the finish line. Hambletonian.com has up-to-date information.

the lady in your life to something special this Mother’s and take her to MOTHER’S DAY AT THE TRACK at Monmouth Park in Oceanport. women get into this event and the first 1,000 moms through the entrance will receive carnation. Stop for brunch at Dining Club and Turf Club or one of their other dining options, or you can pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it in the sun. Family activities, including clown shows, face painting, pony a bounce house, take place from to 4 p.m. Gates open at 9 a.m. monmouthpark.com for more

MAY 12

Want to take care of your health as well as the environment’s wellbeing? Lace up your sneakers for the annual RUN THE HOOK 5K/10K RUN at Sandy Hook–Gateway National Recreation Area. A portion of the race proceeds will benefit nonprofit Clean Ocean Action, which works to improve the quality of local bodies of water. For updated registration details and more info, visit runthehooknj.com.

MAY 18-19

THE WRESTLESHOW NJ 2 at the Middletown Sports Complex is must-see for any wrestling fan—die-hard or casual. With more than 50 vendors, live wrestling shows on Saturday night and on-site food and drinks, there is something here to please everyone. Professional photo ops are available, and the guest list keeps on growing. Visit wrestleshownj.com for information

MAY 27

THE FREEHOLD DAY PARADE staple, and one the oldest and largest parades in western Monmouth County. This year’s event steps off from corner of Brinkerhoff Avenue and at 10 a.m. An of 70 units marches units, bands, Bring your family local heroes. See freeholdmemorialdayparade. com for more info.

MAY 25-27

If love food FESTIVAL Monmouth more lobster more painters, more agenda park.com ticket

Gatherings

Monmouth residents always show up to support their friends and neighbors— especially when help is needed most.

Red Bank recently hosted and served guests during its Military Veteran Health and Wellness Outing. Attendees were greeted with open arms, delicious food and hospitality. The nonprofit community restaurant is open to paying customers and those in need.

3. CENTRASTATE MEDICAL CENTER

Musicians, guests and organizers raised over $4,200 through the Boys & Girls Clubs’ Big Man’s Bash. Funding will benefit the nonprofit’s life-changing youth development programs.

Karen Aquino-Lopez, R.N., and Megan Lukens BSN, R.N., OCN, from the Freehold-based hospital’s oncology unit received The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. The two nurses were nominated by a patient’s family for their endless compassion and dedication.

4. FULFILL

Fulfill food pantry recently had 131 volunteers helping with a variety of tasks (which included sorting and boxing 8,463 pounds of food) at both our Neptune and Toms River locations. Young volunteers also had the chance to learn about gardening and nutrition by making wildflower seed packets and assembling rice paper fruit rollups.

5. HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

The nonprofit organization recently welcomed the Finn family to their new home. Ceremonies included volunteers, donors, sponsors and Habitat staff. Pictured are Erik Anderson, Diane Kinnane and Kim Stulb.

6. BROOKDALE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

The OceanFirst Foundation awarded $40,000 to Brookdale Community College. Forty students will receive $1,000 to aid their academic pursuits. Pictured: Michele Wilson, Edward Moran, Nancy Kaari, Jesus Calle, Olga Abramova, Kevin Cifuentes, Iana Dunaevskaia, Kayla Kosowski, Dr. Stout and Kendrick Reinoso.

1. JBJ SOUL KITCHEN

JBJ Soul Kitchen in

2. BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF MONMOUTH

JBJ Soul Kitchen (1), Boys & Girls Clubs (2), CentraState Medical Center (3), Fulfill (4), Habitat for Humanity (5), Brookdale Community Cellege (6)

“I have been shooting people surfing for many years and have never been able to line up a surfer with a fishing boat in the background—until the Hurricane Lee swell arrived on the Jersey Shore last October. Just after sunset and after a marathon six-hour surf session, NJ Hall of Fame surfer Scott Duerr (aka ‘Mr. Manasquan’) came out of the water and walked over to say hello. Having missed his previous waves, I asked him if he had one more in him. ‘Sure,’ he replied. He paddled back out and drove down the line just as the Maria Noelle arrived at the inlet. An iconic surfer, boat and location all lined up in an unforgettable Monmouth moment.”

—Adam Cannizzaro, Freehold

Photo courtesy of Adam Cannizzaro; Instagram: @actakesphotos

Get More Out of Your Mammo

Are you getting the most out of your mammogram? You will with Mammo&More at the Star and Barry Tobias Women’s Health Center at CentraState. Mammo&More adds more benefits to your routine breast screening including:

• More accuracy with 3D technology

• More information with a comprehensive breast cancer risk assessment

• More protection with personalized monitoring plans for high-risk individuals

To make an appointment or learn more:

866-CENTRA7

centrastate.com/mammo

• More convenience—no prescription required for routine mammograms