Monmouth: December 2023/January 2024 by Wainscot Media

VOLUME 21 ISSUE 6 | DECEMBER 2023/JANUARY 2024

Monmouth HEALTH & LIFE | FOOD & FASHION | HOME & HAPPENINGS

DECEMBER 2023/JANUARY 2024 | $6.95 | MONMOUTHMAG.COM | VOLUME 21 ISSUE 6

HAPPY & HEALTHY ABCs OF WELLNESS 26 TIPS FOR A BETTER YOU YEAR-ROUND SERENITY IN SPRING LAKE

THE WINTER ISSUE

WINTER BREAK 5 QUICK GETAWAYS

FEELIN’ GOOD

AT AQUASPA IN MARLBORO

THE COUNTY’S TOP DOCTORS

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YEARS IN BUSINESS!

1661 Hwy 34 South, Wall, NJ 07719 732.938.5252 njgravelsand.com Fulfilling all your landscape, hardscape and natural stone needs! Custom Stone Fabrication/ Bulk Materials / Building & Landscape Stone / Pavers / Crushed Sea Shells

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TOP DOCTORS READY FOR WHATEVER OUR PATIENTS FACE

We’re proud to celebrate our physicians recognized on Monmouth Magazine’s Monmouth County Top Doc List. This significant acknowledgment is a testament to the outstanding care they continually provide to our communities throughout New Jersey. Delivering care that’s stronger than any illness, our physicians are ready for whatever comes your way.

Mona S. Awad, M.D., Critical Care Medicine and Pulmonary Disease Arvind Patel, M.D., Pediatrics (General) Thomas R. Lake, M.D., Colon and Rectal Surgery David J. Frank, M.D., Neurology Arun R. Antony, M.D., Neurology Ritu Malik Anand, M.D., Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism Jose M. Fune, M.D., Infectious Disease Edward W. Liu, M.D., Infectious Disease David B. Duncan, M.D., Neurology Joseph A. Cipriano, M.D., Obstetrics and Gynecology Suzanne Plaine, D.O., Pediatrics (General) Gregory J. Tiesi, M.D., Cancer Surgery Krishna K. Chalasani, M.D., Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism Danielle E. Lann, M.D., Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism Raquel Kristin S. Ong, M.D., Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism Madhurima, Anne, M.D., Hematology and Oncology Cathie Ann Mancuso, M.D., Internal Medicine Shabbar F. Danish, M.D., Neurosurgery William W. Maggio, M.D., Neurosurgery Nitesh V. Patel, M.D., Neurosurgery Simon A. Salerno, M.D., Neurosurgery Katherine A. Beckwith-Fickas, M.D., Pediatric Endocrinology

To learn more about these exceptional doctors and book an appointment, visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org/TopDoctors.

Jennifer Jimenez, M.D., Pediatric Gastroenterology Beth Loveridge Lenza, D.O., Pediatric Gastroenterology Harpreet Pall, M.D., Pediatric Gastroenterology Michael Carson, M.D., Family Medicine Jorge F. Corzo, M.D., Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Ziad G. Hanhan, M.D., Thoracic Surgery

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Contents DEC 23/JAN 24

Features A Healthier You, From A to Z 22

Just in time for the New Year, here’s an alphabet of tips designed to help you take optimal care of that body and mind of yours and stay well.

Going Year-Round 32 A NYC apartment dwelling’s quest for serenity 12 months of the year inspired the complete renovation of her Spring Lake Home.

Holiday Gifts For The Children 38 Still deciding what to give your favorite little guy or girl? Here are 13 presents every kid would love to receive.

IN EVERY ISSUE 6 20 57 70

MONMOUTHMAG.COM

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Editor’s Note Health News Where to Eat Be There

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

For over 50 years, Atlantic Eye has been built upon two core principles and values – to provide first-class eye care with compassion and dignity and to be the preferred provider of quality ophthalmic surgery in the communities they serve. The multi-speciality team of 11 doctors – six ophthalmologists and five optometrists – use the latest technology to provide cutting edge services and worldclass eye surgical procedures and treatments, including advanced cataract and transplant surgery. In addition to comprehensive ophthalmology, the clinicians and surgeons are trained in several sub specialities including Oculoplastic, Corneal and Refractive disease,Glaucoma treatment, Medical Retina, and Neuro Optometry. At Atlantic Eye, patients receive the very best personalized eye and visual care. In addition to comprehensive eye care, specialty services include a Dry Eye Clinic, LASIK and PRK, and Scleral Lens fittings for keratoconus. Our Oculoplastic Division offers many options for cosmetic and medically necessary procedures. Treating over 50,000 patients annually in four locations throughout

Monmouth County, the specialists are breaking scientific advancements and setting precedence in the field. The 21,000 SF state-of-the-art Eatontown location serves as the practice’s administrative headquarters and Ambulatory surgery center. Each of Atlantic Eye’s four locations have optical departments which are staffed with experienced opticians and a full complement of eyewear and contact lenses. The practice is particularly proud of its optometric residency program to expand and build knowledge and confidence among future optometrists. Whether through locally hosted health events or medical mission trips abroad, Atlantic Eye is a place for communities near and far. The practice fosters a culture where kindness, respect and camaraderie are placed above all else for patients, physicians, technicians, nurses and support staff. The entire team is humbled by the trust placed upon them by their loyal patients, and promises to continue to serve their beloved communities with the same outstanding service for generations to come.

ATLANTIC EYE

300 S Highway 35, Suite 300, Eatontown, NJ 07724 180 White Road, Suite 202, Little Silver, NJ 07739 100 Commons Way, Suite 230, Holmdel, NJ 07733 1963 Hwy 34 South, Bldg. B, Suite 101, Wall Township, NJ 07719 732.222.7373 | atlanticeye.com

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Contents DEC 23/JAN 24

Departments Monmouth Buzz 10 Our guide to new ideas, tips, trends and things we love in the county.

Friends & Neighbors 12 Nowhere to turn for emergency childcare in Monmouth County? Lynn Hawkins and Quadhera Simmons have your back.

Style Watch 14 This cozy sweater style is a chilly weather mainstay.

Home Front 16

Restaurant Review 68

Nature gets a glamorous touch with this glittery décor.

Bringing India’s rich flavors to Freehold, Saffron proves that spicy needn’t mean dicey.

Escapes 40

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

The County’s Top Doctors

ABOUT THE COVER Find more time to treat your body and mind in 2024. Photo courtesy of AquaSpa in Marlboro.

Tastes 42 Holiday eating is about presentation as much as flavor. These meaty mains have you covered for both.

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Gatherings 71

These brief trips are just right for five kinds of travelers—or maybe for five facets of yourself that are itching to be set free.

Special Section 46

A Monmouth Moment 72 When a cyclist, the sun and the Ocean Grove pier aligned, a Farmingdale photographer had an opportunity to showcase the beauty of the Jersey Shore.

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American Cuisine with a Mediterranean fusion.

Happy Hour Tuesday - Thursday: 4pm - 6pm Friday: 3pm - 6pm | Sunday: 4pm - 6pm

Live Jazz Friday and Saturday nights 202 Broadway, Long Branch, NJ, 07740 732.483.6967 | www.21aonbroadway.com

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TOWN & COUNTRY DESIGN STUDIO introduces

EDITOR’S NOTE

Your Health, From A To Z

Happy New Year! Here at MONMOUTH we’re hoping 2024 will be a healthy and rewarding year for you and yours. Choosing to locate in a beautiful area like the Jersey Shore is a key ingredient for a good life—but so is robust health. That’s why we try in every issue to provide, in a reader-friendly way, information that can introduces help you stay well and assure your vitality today and for many tomorrows. In this one, marking the New Year, we’re going whole hog, with 26 such nuggets of health wisdom, one for each letter of the alphabet. (See “A Healthier You, From A to Z,” on page 22.) Your ultimate source of guidance, of course, is your own trusted medical professionals. (Not the internet, bulging though it is with informational tidbits, some of them more reliable than others.) But reading our “A to Z” guide can help you make the best use of clinicians’ time, inspiring questions you might wish to ask them. Our guide quotes expert doctors and draws on some of the latest research. After all, new medical research has a funny way of turning yesterday’s confident belief into today’s discarded myth. But it’s not just health questions this issue can help you answer. How, for instance, can you celebrate a relaxed, quiet New Year’s Eve this year? (See page 11.) Where do you turn to convey a message that’s too personal for email or texting, that cries out instead for an elegant version of that old technology called pen and paper? (Page 10.) How does a place that’s been stellar as a summertime beach house step up to the new role of year-round home? (Page 32.) Where can you get lamb vindaloo that’s “fiery” hot—yet still a taste treat rather than an ordeal? (Page 68.) And where, just a few years from now, will you find musical museum exhibits about The Boss, Bruce Springsteen? (Page 11.) One more question if you promise not to answer it out loud: Could you go into business with your mom? Some folks—whose love for their mothers is infinite—might nevertheless guiltily shake their heads and look floorward. Well, they’re not Lynn Hawkins and Quadhera Simmons, mom-and-daughter partners whose story you’ll read on page 12. Together they run Pinwheel Place, the state’s only “crisis nursery,” which moved to larger quarters in November. We’re glad they’re around, and so will any Monmouth parent be who suddenly needs emergency childcare. (Both Hawkins and Simmons, separately, have qualifying professional experience. Find out in our article why for Simmons her work is a special kind of giveback.) Each MONMOUTH strives to be an informative, entertaining slice of life in our beautiful area, and it’s a double slice when an issue sits on the cusp of two calendar years. Let’s honor the old and ring in the new. A curated collection of homewares to inspire you to live beautifully To your health!

TOWN & COUNTRY DESIGN STUDIO

A curated collection of homewares to inspire you to live beautifully

25 BRIDGE AVENUE | RED BANK, NJ 25 BRIDGE AVENUE | RED BANK, NJ

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

732.345.1441 | themercantilebytcds.com

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Monmouth

Editor in Chief RITA GUARNA

Publisher THOMAS FLANNERY

Creative Director STEPHEN M. VITARBO

Associate Publisher JODI BRUKER

Senior Associate Editor DARIUS AMOS

ADVERTISING

Lifestyle Editor HALEY LONGMAN Contributing Editors PAUL RANCE JR. DONNA ROLANDO Contributing Photographer SRS PHOTOGRAPHY PRODUCTION

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BE SOCIAL Join our online community! LIKE us on Facebook: MonmouthMagazine FOLLOW us on Twitter: @MonmouthHandL SEE our photos on Instagram: @MonmouthMagazine VIEW our boards on Pinterest: HealthandLife SEND YOUR FEEDBACK AND IDEAS TO: Editor, Monmouth, P.O. Box 571, Asbury Park, NJ 07712; fax: 201.746.8650; email rita.guarna@ wainscotmedia.com. Monmouth assumes no responsibility for the return of unsolicited manuscripts or art materials. Monmouth is published 6 times a year by Wainscot Media, 1 Maynard Dr., Park Ridge, NJ 07656. This is Volume 21, Issue 6. © 2023 by Wainscot Media LLC. All rights reserved. Subscriptions in U.S. outside of Monmouth County: $30 for one year. Single copies: $6.95. Material contained herein is intended for informational purposes only. If you have medical concerns, seek the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Chairman CARROLL V. DOWDEN President & CEO MARK DOWDEN Senior Vice Presidents LIZETTE CHIN, RITA GUARNA Vice Presidents NIGEL EDELSHAIN THOMAS FLANNERY NOELLE HEFFERNAN MARIA REGAN STEVEN RESNICK

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES Please contact Thomas Flannery at 201.571.2252 or thomas.flannery@wainscotmedia.com.

SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES To inquire about a subscription, to change an address or to purchase a back issue or a reprint of an article, please write to Monmouth, Circulation Department, 1 Maynard Dr., Park Ridge, NJ 07656; telephone 201.573.5541; email fern.meshulam@ wainscotmedia.com.

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Monmouth Buzz

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

LETTERS ARE TREASURES

Texts, emails, e-cards and even DMs have taken over as the preferred modes of communication for many of us. Still, there’s something to be said for a handwritten note, letter or thank-you card—especially during the holiday season. “Although technology has its place in the modern world, feelings of love, sympathy, compassion or congratulations should be written on paper so that they can be saved and cherished forever,” says Paulette Jemal, owner of The Paper Moon in Allenhurst. “That handwritten card during the holiday season— or any season, for that matter—will lift their spirits for a long time in the future.” These independent stationery stores in Monmouth are stocked with real, physical paper cards, notebooks and sets that you can buy, write out and send—with a stamp, not the click of a button. Some stores even allow you to customize them to fit your personal style (and family name). • Amanda’s Hallmark, 2130 Rte. 25, Holmdel, 732.275.1000; stores.hallmark. com/nj/holmdel/ • Ink.Papery, 803 River Rd., Fair Haven, 732.268.7905; inkpaperyandgifts.com • The Papery, 2100 Rte. 35, Sea Girt, 732.974.9776; 540 Broad St., Shrewsbury, 732.204.7922; thepapery.com • The Paper Moon, 315 Main St., Allenhurst, 732.531.2333; @thepapermoon

QUIET REVELRY

Who says a New Year’s Eve celebration must be loud, raucous and besotted? There are low-key alternatives for seeing in 2024 with friends. For instance: • Host a dinner party. Instead of dining out, whip up some easy apps and cocktails for you and a small group of friends. Keep things casual rather than stressing yourself out with a formal sit-down dinner; no one is that hungry by midnight anyway! Stock up: Monmouth is home to so many local gift shops—Welcome Home in Red Bank and Curated Home in Manalapan, for example—where you can find perfect serving ware and dishes for the occasion. • Plan a game night. Ask guests to bring their favorite board game and wear their PJs to your NYE game night. This is an invite anyone above age 35 will be hard put to refuse. Stock up: Shop for board games, puzzles and more for adults and kids at one of our local toy shops. Try Toybox in Colts Neck, Distinctive Toys in Fair Haven or The Toy Store by the Shore in Ocean Grove. • Organize a cookie exchange. Christmas is over, but so what? Nobody’s going to say no to some amazing homemade baked goods on Dec. 31. The bonus in having each guest bring a treat is that you don’t have to prepare too much as host. To up the ante, assign a few people as judges and hold a baking contest, with the winner going home with a White Elephant gift. Stock up: Get all your baking necessities at a store like Shore Cake Supply in Ocean Township; then shop for ingredients at a mom-and-pop shop such as Sickles Market in Red Bank. • Make it a movie night. Have you seen all of the flicks that will be garnering Oscars in the New Year? See if you can get any of them on demand on a streaming network such as Prime or Netflix. You can set up shop in your family room, or rent a projector to use outside if you and your guests don’t mind the cold. Stock up: For an outside movie screening, make a trip to REI in Marlton for heated blankets, insulated gloves and maybe even some sleeping bags to stay cozy. You can rent a projector through a company like ALM Audio Visual in Farmingdale. Indoors or out, don’t forget the wine and popcorn!

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HARK! A NEW PARK

Now there are 44 county parks in Monmouth. Hikers, wildlife enthusiasts and anyone looking for a respite in nature can rejoice, as the county plans to open Pleasant Valley County Park off Route 34 in Holmdel and Marlboro. When it opens next year, its 62 acres of wooded terrain will feature newly constructed hiking trails and a small parking lot on the site. Just don’t expect new recreation buildings—most of the land will remain natural and untouched. The purchase of the property, which the county acquired for $4.9 million from a private development company, was pending an environmental review at presstime. Funding for the site comes from the Monmouth County Open Space, Recreation, Floodplain Protection, Farmland and Historic Preservation Trust.

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Open

WELCOME TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD

New year, new you—new businesses in Monmouth County can help you get there. Let’s welcome these new locally owned shops that focus on health and wellness: Body Depot in Hazlet, a spa that specializes in noninvasive body treatments and skin care. You may recognize the name (and face) of one of the shop’s co-owners/ aestheticians: Karen Gravano, author and star of the now-defunct VH1 reality series Mob Wives. • 1715 Union Ave., Suite 202, Hazlet, 732.934.2422

CULINARY CORNER

The Jersey Shore is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Let’s add these three worldly restaurants to the mix:

FLX Flo Pilates in Red Bank, a reformer Pilates class (as opposed to a Pilates class on the mat) that focuses on low-impact exercises that help build core strength and muscle. “Complete Core Control” and “Bounce & Burn” are open to all levels of Pilates people—others are reserved for advanced folk. • 170 Monmouth St., Red Bank, 732.945.0911; flxflopilates.com

MAD FOR MEDITERRANEAN

Malls are mostly full of chain stores and restaurants, but we’re happy to welcome a locally owned small business to Freehold Raceway Mall. Marmara Mediterranean has Turkish-inspired cuisine for dine-in or takeout, including traditional dishes such as lamb shank and moussaka, flavorful spreads such as hummus and baba ghanoush and an array of salads and soups. • Freehold Raceway Mall, Freehold, 732.808.2727; marmaracuisine.com

KUDOS TO…

FOR FOOD AND A FIESTA

Come for the vibes, stay for the delicious food at Toro Rojo Parrilla Mexicana, an authentic Mexican restaurant in the heart of Red Bank. A vibrant painted mural and a can’t-miss-it bull mascot add to the festive décor, but the food is worth celebrating too. Seafood lovers shouldn’t skip the aguachile, a ceviche-like soup made with shrimp and veggies, and meat lovers are raving about the chef ’s quesabirria, a tortilla filled with melted cheese and birria-style cooked beef. • 191 Shrewsbury Ave., Red Bank, 732.383.8273 GROOVY ’N PERUVIAN

Elsewhere in Red Bank there’s Ceviche House Peru, a sit-down spot featuring vibrant flavors inspired by the South American nation via recipes passed down through generations. Of course, there’s plenty of ceviche to be had, but among other specialties is the traditional lomo saltado, strips of steak stir-fried with onions, tomatoes and french fries. • 51 Broad St., Red Bank, 732.345.8083; sites. google.com/cevichehouseperu.com

…Mahika Jawa and Leena Mirchandani, two Monmouth County teens who founded STEMpowering, a nonprofit initiative that involves low-income middle schoolers and high schoolers in hands-on, STEM-related learning. Together, Jawa, a Holmdel High School junior, and Mirchandani, a junior at Peddie School in Hightstown, wrote a proposal to Bristol Myers Squibb for funding and support of their programs, and since then middle schools have been fighting to implement it across New Jersey. This teen-led initative, which features STEM professionals as advisers, “happens mostly in the summers as dedicated STEM camps in community centers like Middletown Arts Center or through Girl Scouts in Wall,” says Vibha Jawa, executive director at Bristol Myers Squibb in Princeton. “The girls are mentored by scientists from the life sciences industry in New Jersey like Bristol Myers Squibb to get the experiments and concepts together.” They meet regularly with these industry experts to perfect the hands-on experiments they teach, Jawa adds. The pals also participated in web-based panels hosted by Women in Pharmaceutical Sciences and were recognized by the American Congressional Awards for their peer mentoring and for motivating other teens to join them in promoting STEM-based learning, both virtually and in person.

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STAY TUNED FOR A MUSIC MUSEUM

Did you hear about Bruce Springsteen’s recent visit to Monmouth University in West Long Branch? In between taking selfies with students and chatting up the faculty, The Boss announced the construction of a 30,000-square-foot building on campus that will house the Springsteen Archives and the Center for American Music, as well as additional exhibitions and a theater. The university says this new addition—it will be home to photographs, periodicals, oral histories, recordings, films and other material related to Springsteen and the E Street Band—will “ensure that his influence and his importance in American music history endures for generations to come.” The building won’t open till spring 2026, but a $45 million fundraising campaign is under way. Donate at springsteenarchives. org/give/.

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FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS

Crisis Care’s Dynamic Duo An Eatontown mother and daughter share a singular mission that’s strengthening families in Monmouth County at the worst times in their lives. Lauded as New Jersey’s only crisis nursery, Pinwheel Place reopened Nov. 13 in larger quarters in Eatontown thanks to Lynn Hawkins, 57, and her adopted daughter Quadhera Simmons, 34. Quady was just 2 years old when she met her mom at a group foster home in Jersey City. Among their earlier endeavors, Hawkins served for some 25 years at Ronald McDonald House in Long Branch, and Simmons worked at St. Clare’s Homes for Children in Neptune. Both hope Pinwheel’s success will inspire other crisis nurseries. Tell us about Pinwheel Place. Hawkins: We offer free emergency childcare for families who find themselves in a difficult situation, families who might not be able to find childcare or who need to go on a job interview—or who go into the hospital and have no one to watch their kids. Simmons: We are like a village for the families. A lot of families don’t have support systems. What inspired you to start Pinwheel Place? H: I did a year of service out of college for Casa de Esperanza in Texas, a home for children who were abused. I could see how love could make a big difference in a child’s life. S: I am a child of the foster care system, so I had experience with the trauma. There are many ways to help. Why a crisis nursery? H: Once I became a parent, I was like, “Why are we waiting until children are abused and then trying to intervene? Why aren’t we doing more to prevent trauma in the first place?” So we started researching, and we saw that other states had crisis nurseries. What were the challenges to being New Jersey’s first? H: We’re not a typical day care center. They don’t

know what box to put us in for zoning or licensing. It’s always hard to find funding when you’re a nonprofit starting out, because people want to have three years of the financials. But the community’s been good to us. What hurdles did you face in finding a location? H: We were renting, and the landlord decided to sell when the housing market was really good. This spot that we’re in right now is brand-new, but in the other one we opened in August 2019— then had to close down for COVID. It’s been a lot of stops and starts, so we’re very excited to be in a permanent facility now. How did you stay busy during COVID? H: That’s when we started our diaper program

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and our welcome basket program. Our whole mission is to reduce stress in families. We thought that with families not having jobs and not having money they might be keeping diapers on babies longer. We’re one of the few agencies that deliver diapers. How does a parent qualify for the crisis nursery? H: There’s no real qualification. If a family believes they’re in crisis, more than likely they are, but generally social workers refer families. How do you swing this financially? H: It’s free emergency childcare; we make our money basically by donations and grants. We’re doing a virtual walk right now, which we call our Monster March. Do you get many volunteers? H: We do get childcare volunteers who are fingerprinted and background-checked, and they can come in and help take care of the children. We’d love to have people help us write grant [proposals]. We have a couple of volunteers who help us with the fundraising, but we could always use more. How did Pinwheel Place get its name? S: The pinwheel is a national symbol for child abuse prevention. Pinwheels are whimsical, so that’s what we want all children to experience—to be children. What is it like to work with your mom? S: It’s nice because we know each other and our personalities. It’s nice to work with someone you’re that close to. How do parents in need get in touch? H: They can visit pinwheelplace.org, call 732.542.1026 or e-mail info@pinwheelplace.org. Same for people who want to volunteer. What do you do in your free time? H: It’s not much free time; usually I’m visiting with my parents during my free time. But I do like to read and hike. I usually go over to the Manasquan Reservoir. S: My hobbies are reading, writing—and I love movies. My favorite movie is Homeward Bound. —Donna Rolando

Photo courtesy of John Vitollo

Have nowhere to turn for emergency childcare in Monmouth County? A mother-and-daughter team has your back—and it’s free.

DECEMBER 2023/JANUARY 2024

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This cozy sweater style is a chilly weather mainstay.

Oversized Turtleneck Sweater H&M, Freehold, 855.466.7467

Veronica Beard Clary Turtleneck Wool-Blend Sweater Garmany, Red Bank, 732.576.8500

Simkhai Adrienne Wool-Cashmere Buttoned Turtleneck Sweater simkhai.com MONMOUTHMAG.COM

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Michael Aram New Leaves Grape Leaf Snack Plate Curated Home, Manalapan, 732.677.2292

Jingle Bell and Leaf Garland Anthropologie, Shrewsbury, 732.842.0762

Turn A New Leaf

Michael Aram Butterfly Ginkgo Centerpiece Bowl The Yellow Door, Deal, 732.531.1110

Nature gets a glamorous touch with this glittery décor.

Vickerman Mocha Magnolia Leaf Artificial Christmas Wreath Walmart, Neptune Township, 732.922.8084 Gold Leaf on Marble Stand Décor Set of 3 World Market, Shrewsbury, 732.530.2863

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Elements Gold Finish Leaf Table Decor Kohl’s, Middletown, 732.706.1669

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HEALTH NEWS ACID BLOCKER RISK

LONGER ALLERGY SEASON

A new study has shown that common acid blockers called proton pump inhibitors, or PPIs—which represent most overthe-counter and prescription acid blockers used to treat heartburn—are a major risk factor for dementia. On the other hand, chewable antacids— Rolaids, for example—and Pepcid, a H2 (histamine type 2 receptor blocker), are not associated with increased dementia risk. —Alzheimers & Dementia

Researchers say allergy season is starting earlier and lasting longer, which is bad news for the 24 million folks in the U.S. who suffer with pollen-induced respiratory allergies, such as hay fever. —Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

POLYPS AND ASTHMA

If your asthma has been difficult to control, nasal polyps may be the reason. Research has shown that patients with severe polyps and asthma were more likely to have hard-to-control asthma than patients with less-severe polyps. —American Journal of Otolaryngology

The percentage of Hispanics likely to die from hepatitis C compared with non-Hispanics. —U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

COACHING FOR ALZHEIMER’S

A recent study has found that pre-dementia and Alzheimer’s disease patients who received lifestyle coaching, including diet, exercise and computerized brain exercises, showed improvement in memory and cognition. —Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease

1 IN 5

The number of women in the U.S. who suffer from migraines. —Migraine Research Foundation

AEROBICS FOR DEPRESSION

—Compiled by Paul Rance Jr.

Research has found that a depressed person who exercises could get as much relief—or more—from symptoms as he or she would from taking medication. Aerobic exercise, specifically, has been shown to reduce depression significantly. —British Journal of Sports Medicine MONMOUTHMAG.COM

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ARE YOU A MONMOUTH COUNTY RESIDENT?

VOLUME 21 ISSUE 4 | SEPTEMBER 2023

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A HEALTHIER YOU, FROM

AZ TO

JUST IN TIME FOR THE NEW YEAR, HERE’S AN ALPHABET OF TIPS DESIGNED TO HELP YOU TAKE OPTIMAL CARE OF THAT BODY AND MIND OF YOURS AND STAY WELL.

Ready to become the best possible you in ’24? For most of us, that needn’t mean a complete lifestyle overhaul, with all the fun extracted. Making smart lifestyle choices can help you not only avoid disease, but also feel more energetic and get more joy out of life. On the following pages, we present, based on recent research, a health tidbit for each letter of the alphabet.

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FOR AISALCOHOL

Beer, wine and liquor are ingrained in the culture as accompaniments to good food and good times. But the health benefits claimed for alcohol in some past studies have been questioned by experts, who wonder: Did they show a real cause-and-effect connection, or was it merely that healthy people did more socializing, and thus more imbibing? One thing doctors agree on is that you’ll have a safer, healthier 2024 if you avoid heavy drinking. The Mayo Clinic suggests limits of one drink a day for women, two drinks a day for men, one drink being 12 ounces of beer, five ounces of wine or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits. (FYI: Mayo also says that even light drinking brings a “tiny” increased risk of some cancers.)

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FOR MANNER B ISBEDSIDE When you have a health issue— especially a serious illness like breast cancer—you want a health care professional you trust and feel comfortable with. According to a study from New Jersey’s own Rutgers University, an empathetic doctor makes a difference in reducing patient anxiety and uncertainty. “Knowing that one in eight women are diagnosed with breast cancer, it’s important to have empathy and compassion and put oneself in the patient’s place,” says Manpreet Kohli, M.D., director of breast surgery for Monmouth Medical Center. “Cancer care requires much more than just treating malignancy; we target the cancer’s specific biology while accounting for the human being that it developed in.” To see if a doctor you’re considering fits the bill—for breast cancer or any other medical issue—start by checking sites like Healthgrades. com to read other patients’ honest assessments. “It’s important to select a physician you feel safe with,” Dr. Kohli adds. “If you feel your concerns are not validated or you are not being heard, you may want to consider a second opinion.”

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FOR CARE C ISCARDIAC

Hitting 10,000 steps a day isn’t the only route to heart health. A new British study has found that climbing five or more flights of stairs daily, or about 50 steps, was linked with a lower risk of heart attacks and strokes. Researchers determined that really, any short burst of high-intensity activity is good for your heart, and it’s especially fitting if you can’t get a full workout in. So maybe 2024 is the time to take up jump rope?

G ISGUTFORHEALTH percentage,” notes Ashley Kravitz, CEO, founder and registered dietitian at Nutrition Specialists of New Jersey in Freehold. The best news? This diet is easy to incorporate into our lifestyle. “Make sure each plate contains fresh fruits and vegetables, a whole grain (in place of a more processed carbohydrate), healthy fats (olive oil, avocado, nuts/seeds) and a lean protein,” Kravitz says. You can also add on even 20 minutes of exercise daily to start.

FOR D ISDIETING

Europeans have been onto something for centuries with the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes healthy fats and lots of meat and veggies. Turns out that older people who follow a lowercalorie Mediterranean diet and exercised—even minimally—up to six days a week gained muscle and lost weight by the end of year, and kept it off three years later, a new study reports. “High proteins allow for muscle to increase while decreasing the body’s overall body fat

IS FOR FERTILITY

The older we get, the harder it is to get pregnant, since women’s egg quality and quantity decline with age. But recent research has determined that an anti-aging supplement called spermidine made middle-aged mice more fertile. Experts think this shows promise for humans too, and just might be the “holy grail” of fertility over age 40. In the meantime, eat more cheddar cheese, mushrooms and soybeans, which naturally contain spermidine.

You may want to invest in a good prebiotic vitamin. A new study found that this dietary supplement, which helps maintain good bacteria in the gut, not only helps with digestion but also with weight. Consuming significant amounts of prebiotics was found to decrease the brain’s desire for high-calorie foods, resulting in weight loss. Besides the packaged kind, prebiotics are found in onions, leeks, artichokes, wheat, bananas and chicory root.

FOR H ISHAPPINESS

Happiness is in our blood—literally. According to recent research, some people are more genetically inclined to be happy than others, and their happiness can vary slightly but mostly remains consistent from age 12 to age 73. This was true for people of all backgrounds. Still, even if you’re not more genetically joyful, it helps to do more of whatever it is that makes you happy—other research suggests that happy folks tend to have lower blood pressure and heart rates, reducing the danger of heart disease.

E IS FOR EYES

Carrots help your vision, sure, but apparently grapes do too! Eating this antioxidant-heavy fruit (on its own, not in wine) for 16 consecutive weeks was found in a recent study to help improve eye health and vision in older adults. It could be due to “polyphenols, which are phytochemicals found in grapes and other foods such as blueberries, cherries and leafy green vegetables that work as antioxidants that can help combat inflammation in the body” says Ralph G. Del Negro, D.O., of Del Negro & Senft Eye Associates in Red Bank and Neptune. Additionally, says the doc, “The Age Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS and AREDS2) showed that certain antioxidant vitamins can slow the progression of intermediate and advanced macular degeneration and are commonly recommended to patients, and this study suggests grapes have a similar benefit.” Good news is there are black, green and red grapes, which all taste slightly different, or you can opt for a sweeter variety such as cotton candy grapes or mini-champagne grapes.

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FOR I ISINDIGESTION

The orange-hued spice turmeric has been shown in a new study to treat symptoms of indigestion such as bloating, nausea and stomach pain just as well as the over-the-counter omeprazole product Prilosec, both on its own and in combination with meds. People in Asia have been using this spice for this purpose for centuries, but the Western world is catching on. Sprinkle it on rice or cauliflower, in soups or stews, or even use it when baking cookies and cakes.

IS FOR JOINTS

Seventy percent of older adults experience pain in their joints, which are intricate structures made up of bone, cartilage, ligaments, tendons and synovial fluid. But you don’t need to live with achy joints. There are many remedies for joint pain, including over-the-counter hot and cold packs, NSAIDs and topical pain relievers containing ingredients like capsaicin or menthol, says Ahmed Siddiqi, D.O., an orthopedic surgeon at Orthopaedic Institute Brielle Orthopaedics. Gentle exercise, regular massages and weight management can also help, since being overweight puts added stress on joints. Still, says Dr. Siddiqi, “It’s crucial to see a doctor if the joint pain is severe or sudden, or if the joint is red, hot or swollen or accompanied by a fever.” Also talk to your doc before beginning any of these noninvasive regimens.

K IS FOR KINDNESS

Doing even a small generous deed for someone else has been found to ease symptoms of depression and anxiety. “The more acts of kindness one can engage in, the more it can contribute to an improved sense of well-being,” says Dana Spada, Ph.D., L.C.S.W., founder and psychotherapist at LEAF by Dr. Dana Spada

Psychotherapy with offices in Colts Neck, Little Silver, Hazlet and Sea Girt. Still, she notes, “it’s essential to recognize that anxiety and depression are often manifestations of deeper underlying issues, and to address them effectively, the involvement of a psychotherapist is indispensable.” So sure, donate some toys, give away proceeds from your bake sale or volunteer your time at a local women’s shelter. None of that negates good ol’ therapy, though being kind certainly won’t hurt your mood!

FOR COVID LISLONG

Feeling extra stressed lately? That could be why your menopause symptoms are more pronounced too. A recent study found that women who reported higher stress levels, anxiety or depression and/or constipation also had more severe menopausal symptoms. However, these symptoms can be managed. Book a visit with your gynecologist if your menopause symptoms seem more severe than normal—the doc can run some tests to check your hormone levels and see what’s up.

What differentiates people who recover quickly from the coronavirus from long-COVID sufferers, whose symptoms last beyond three months? Reduced levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin, according to a recent study. Lower serotonin levels were found to cause problems with cognition seen in some long-Covid patients. The next step is most likely clinical trials to see how increasing serotonin improves symptoms. For now, certain supplements, exercise, more sunlight and foods containing tryptophan (like turkey) can increase serotonin levels.

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FOR M ISMENOPAUSE

DECEMBER 2023/JANUARY 2024

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IS FOR BITING N NAIL

Quitting a nail-biting or skin-picking habit won’t happen overnight, but slowly but surely “habit replacement” can help. In a recent study, nail biters who were taught to replace their habit with another, such as rubbing the fingertips, palm or back of the arm at least twice a day, saw a reduction in their biting habits. Still, notes psychotherapist Dr. Spada, keep in mind that this fix addresses the surface issue, but not the deeper reason one bites one’s nails. “The key to truly addressing this issue lies in understanding the anxiety, the triggers and what is underneath the nail-biting behavior, not the physical act of nail biting,” she says. Next time you feel the urge to pick or bite, try doing something else with your hands, such as sitting on them or texting a friend. If you want to quit this habit for good, though, seek out a qualified therapist.

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FOR O ISOBESITY

Here in New Jersey, the prevalence of obesity in adults is slightly lower than the national average (28.6 percent vs. 32.3 percent), but many of us are still clinically overweight. And a recent paper claims that the biggest culprit in obesity is fructose. This sugar is found naturally in fruit, but is also added to artificial sweeteners and many processed foods. To lower your fructose intake, start by not buying foods whose nutrition labels list fructose, crystalline fructose or honey among the ingredients.

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FOR P ISPICKLEBALL

An Apple Health study found that tennis and pickleball have equivalent health benefits for players, boosting overall health as well as balance and coordination. Still, tennis elbow and rotator cuff injuries are common with both of these upperextremity-heavy sports. To avoid injury, warm up for pickleball with dynamic movements such as a quad stretch, as well as shoulder and wrist stretches to loosen the upper extremities.

FOR S ISSKIN

Topical creams can help make your skin look and feel its best, but that’s not the only way to get that natural glow. One study found that weightlifting can improve skin elasticity; another unrelated study concluded that listening to relaxing music can help skin look more rejuvenated too. (Taylor Swift was named the world’s “most relaxing artist.”)

FOR CARBS Q ISQUALITY

It’s quality, not quantity when it comes to the carbohydrates you consume. New research found that high-quality carbohydrates such as whole grains promoted less weight gain in middle-aged folks, while lower-quality carbohydrates (those with refined carbs or added sugars) resulted in more weight gain. “High quality carbohydrates go through less processing, contain more nutrients and are higher in fiber,” says Michele Peters, a registered dietitian certified in Integrative and Functional Nutrition who practices in Middletown. She says to try to fill your plate with high-quality carbs such as non-starchy vegetables, “high fiber fruits like berries, apples, pears and kiwi and grains such as farro, quinoa, buckwheat, steel cut oats, barley, beans and lentils,” she adds.

IS FOR RUNNING

Running has a plethora of benefits for our physical health, but now it’s been proven to have advantages for mental health too. Researchers found in a recent study that in some people, running regularly can be just as helpful as antidepressants for treating depression and anxiety symptoms. The reasoning? Running helps release “endorphins and endocannabinoids [naturally occurring neurotransmitters that help regulate bodily functions] from the brain, which contribute to the feelings of happiness,” says Zachary Perlman, D.O., sports medicine physician at Kai Sports Medicine in Little Silver. Not sure how to begin a new running routine? Start with one-mile runs three times per week and go at your own pace rather than aiming for a particular speed, recommends Dr. Perlman. Plus, he says, do dynamic stretching before a run and static stretching afterwards to help balance your flexibility and mobility.

A new way to help prevent diabetes may just be your cup of tea. Researchers found that drinking a cup of dark tea (such as black tea) once a day without added sweeteners may reduce your risk of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. “Several ‘shades’ of tea come from the same plant— the difference lies in the processing after harvest,” notes Kate Walters, owner of Sweet Tease Tea Room in Belmar. “Black tea leaves are the most concentrated, so it stands to reason they would have the highest antioxidant levels and potentially the most health benefits.” Walters suggests trying a cup of orange pekoe, Darjeeling or oolong tea, or sub in Earl Grey for bourbon to concoct a tasty mocktail Old Fashioned. “The black tea base with the bergamot infusion is a wonderful substitute for bourbon and bitters,” she notes.

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T IS FOR TEA

DECEMBER 2023/JANUARY 2024

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FOR ULTRAFOODS UISPROCESSED

Having trouble putting down that tub of ice cream or sealing up the bag of chips may not just be about self-control. Instead, a new study found that it could be because ultra-processed foods (UPFs) have an addictive quality to them. Researchers found that UPFs’ ingredients make their way to the brain faster than minimally processed foods do, which is why we want to eat more and more of them. This isn’t to say that everyone who craves salt is addicted to it, but it is worth keeping in mind next time you go for a (second or third) handful of Lay’s.

IS FOR VITAMIN B

Out of the 13 vitamins our bodies need, eight of them are part of the vitamin B subgroup, including B12, which helps make our DNA and our red blood cells. Vitamin B12 deficiency has recently been linked with chronic inflammation and a range of health problems. You may be vitamin B12deficient if you feel unusually tired or weak or are experiencing gastrointestinal issues. Your primary care physician can run a blood test to see if your B12 levels are normal or on the lower end.

FOR W ISWALKING

No time for a full-on workout? Two minutes will do. Even just 60–120 seconds a day of vigorous activity—power walking, climbing stairs or even chasing after your kids—can

lower your risk of certain cancers, according to a new study. “A few daily activities can be made more vigorous, including cleaning your house, yard work, walking a pet or going for a walk,” says Gina Gerard, owner and trainer at The PIT Gym in Eatontown. “Even the smallest additions of movement throughout your day can help to improve mental wellness, strengthen your body, loosen your muscles, get your blood flowing and hopefully create a more active lifestyle conducive to a healthier lifestyle.” That’s not to say that you should replace your one-hour gym sessions with these little exercise spurts, but it proves that moving your body even a little bit is better than not at all.

FOR XISX-RAYS

Your dental office may inspire memories of wearing those heavy lead aprons or thyroid collars during X-rays, but you may not be doing so for much longer. A recent study found that the radiation from X-rays does not cause genetic mutations or diseases, and the risk of thyroid cancer is low, meaning that these aprons may not actually be necessary.

FOR Y ISYAWNING

Yawning has long baffled researchers—why do we do it, and what is the point? Experts have said a yawn releases hormones that jolt you awake—temporarily—by increasing your heart rate. But new studies suggest that yawning may be a way for us to avoid harm. The logic is that if you see someone around you yawning, you’ll be more vigilant to threats in an attempt to protect that overly tired person.

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FOR Z ISZZZS

(You knew this one was coming, didn’t you?) Here’s good news for folks who “snooze” the alarm every morning. In a new sleep study, people who snoozed for an extra 30 minutes performed just as well on cognitive tests as their friends and neighbors who jolted right out of bed. And grabbing that bonus Z-time apparently did not dampen the snoozers’ mood. So don’t feel too guilty about hitting that button— those extra few minutes may make you feel more awake once you’re up and at ’em.

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GOING YEARROUND

A NYC APARTMENT DWELLER’S QUEST FOR SERENITY 12 MONTHS OF THE YEAR INSPIRED THE COMPLETE RENOVATION OF HER SPRING LAKE SUMMER HOME. Design by Mary Catherine McCarthy LLC Photography by SRS Photography Text by Donna Rolando

Even before COVID enticed droves of New Yorkers to seek a greener life, one city dweller of 33 years decided it was time to reimagine her Spring Lake summer house for year-round living. “I moved here permanently in 2019, really because I wanted to raise my son in the suburbs,” says the homeowner. Her custom beach house had served well for decades, but now it was time for it to step up to a new role. To make this three-to-four-bedroom waterfront home fit an everyday life of snow as well as sand would take a designer with vision and intuitiveness. Mary Catherine McCarthy of the eponymous Sea Girt firm has been renovating the waterfront house room by room, starting with the kitchen in February 2022—and she continues today with a swim spa. This Spring Lake beach home has been transformed for yearround living courtesy of a design that maximized the open floor plan for entertainment ease.

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Because she loves to entertain, the homeowner appreciates that the kitchen “is a much more open space now” with an island in place of a flow-inhibiting peninsula. Style also changed radically—the countertops went from room-darkening black granite to a gray-marbled alabaster white in the Minuet Quartz by LG Viatera counters. Instead of dated thermofoil cabinets, McCarthy gave the homeowner white, Shaker-style cabinets with glass and a bar area against the high gloss of existing oak floors. The theme of this house is elevated coastal, which the backsplash of mermaid-like iridescent glass by Monmouth Street Tile richly typifies with a boost from undercabinet lights. “If the sun hits in a certain way, it looks like a rainbow with purple in it,” the homeowner says, beaming. The island’s seagrass and starfish bar stools evoke the ocean without “a big sign that says ‘To the beach,’” McCarthy says. Ditto for the draperies with hints of coral by Stout. Completing the look are cage-like pendants by Currey & Co. at the island and a modern chandelier by Visual Comfort at the table, both in satin nickel. With a blend of traditional treasures from the owner’s NYC home, elevated coastal design might have been challenging to achieve, but McCarthy says she embraces all beauty. This is evident in the dining room, where a mahogany table and its upholstered chairs tie in with a 5-foot-wide seascape by Wendy McCarthy, the designer’s This page: An elevated coastal design includes starfish on the custom bar stools in this light, bright kitchen. Opposite page: This mahogany dining room table was too beautiful to replace, so designer McCarthy expertly blended old and new.

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This page: The renovated sunroom is one of many spots that boasts a soothing tidal-pond view. Opposite page: Thibaut’s Palm Grove Collection reflects a lighthearted reinvention of the home’s laundry room.

sister-in-law. The client wanted texture, which the hand-woven Indian rug by Woven Floors provides while lightening the room with subtle blues and greens, she says. Custom geometric drapes by Stout join the scene. In the sunroom, McCarthy again breathes new life into existing pieces with a custom rug that finds its complement in the light and coral hues of the custom drapes. For days when the homeowner sleeps late, there’s a gold-trimmed painting of a sunrise by the same artist. Creating a “soft mix of colors,” McCarthy mirrored the sandy tones of a transitional couch in the new swivel chairs, all in a woven fabric, while introducing blue velvet. The designer

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also trimmed pillows in metallic for harmony with existing lamps and chose a see-through cocktail table for its reflective qualities. A highlight is the Currey flush mount fixture with Capiz shells. At the client’s request, McCarthy enlivened the laundry room with Delray from Thibaut’s Palm Grove Collection. Since the room is visible to guests, she says, “the client wanted it so that it was fun and interesting.” The forest effect is a “showstopper,” joining an upscale utility sink by Ferguson Plumbing. “I really am thrilled,” this ex-New Yorker says, embracing Shore living in her transformed home. “I found Mary Catherine to be unique—not only a decorator but truly a designer.”

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GIFT GUIDE

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Kiddietotes Upright Luggage Suitcase and Backpack Set Target, Middletown, 732.706.9222

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Here are 13 presents every kid would love to receive this season.

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GUND My Little Food Truck Playset Barnes & Noble, Eatontown, 732.460.9470

Pix Brix Farmland and Farm Animals Playscene Walmart, Neptune, 732.922.8084

Crayola Light-Up Tracing Pad Michaels, Eatontown, 732.542.4323

Melissa & Doug Wooden Cool Scoops Ice Cream Salon Toybox, Colts Neck, 732.866.6676

Old World Christmas Santa’s Milk and Cookies and Toy Dump Truck Glass-Blown Ornaments Bungalow Road, Avon-by-the-Sea, 732.455.5280

GUND Buttermilk the Cow Animated Plush Macy’s, Eatontown, 732.542.1212

My First LiftThe-Flap Nursery Rhymes and Who Works at Night? Board Books Barnes & Noble, Eatontown

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ESCAPES

MAKE A QUICK

The brief trips below are just right for five kinds of travelers—or maybe for five facets When family Christmas or Hanukkah traditions prevail, Bergenites usually spend those holidays opening presents, and New Year’s Eve is often celebrated with loved ones watching on TV as the ball drops in Times Square. But what to do during the week in between? You’re off from work, and schools are closed—it’s a perfect time for a quick getaway. Here are five destination ideas within an easy drive, meant for five “types” of travelers. But feel free to shake things up. After all, as five teens learned in the classic movie The Breakfast Club, each of us is really not just a “type” but a mix of different types and passions: A back-to-nature outdoorsman may secretly crave a cheesesteak, while a meticulous historical researcher may be pining—at this time of year—for nothing so much as a refreshing day at a spa. Which “you” will take this trip?

FOR THE ADVENTURE SEEKER IN YOU:

FOR YOUR INNER FOOD FANATIC:

VERNON, NEW JERSEY

HYDE PARK, NEW YORK

You may have visited Mountain Creek Resort in Vernon during the warm-weather season to zipline and mountain-bike, but the thrills don’t end in winter. There are 46 ski and snowboard trails, including slopes for all skill levels, from beginners to future Olympians. If you’re into hotdogging, Mountain Creek has multiple terrain parks where you can show off your skills and aerials. Not great on skis or a snowboard yet? Lessons are available—or head to the dedicated snowtubing park, try Sno-Go biking or simply lounge in the lodge with a hot chocolate. If you plan on going more than once during winter break, consider a Triple Play Card, which authorizes three anytime visits during winter—no restrictions, no reservations, no blackout dates. Beyond adventure: Want to rest achy muscles after a day of skiing? Check out the accommodations of The Appalachian, a slopeside hotel with rooms featuring fireplaces, kitchens and amazing views. Guests also have access to the heated outdoor pool and hot tub. Information: mountaincreek.com

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There’s no shortage of great places to eat in our area, but take a trip to the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, N.Y., if you want to see where some of the top chefs in the country got their start. Three student- and faculty-staffed restaurants are open to the public Tuesdays through Saturdays for lunch and dinner (consider making reservations), serving everything from Italian to French to new American cuisine. A fourth, Apple Pie Bakery Café, offers sweet selections for takeout only, but its dining room is open for visitors to use. Beyond food: Before you head home, sign up for a tour of the Vanderbilt Mansion and the longtime home of Franklin D. Roosevelt and his wife Eleanor. Both sites are within three miles of the Culinary Institute. Information: ciachef.edu

DECEMBER 2023/JANUARY 2024

11/14/23 1:53 PM

GETAWAY of yourself that are itching to be set free.

FOR THE HISTORY BUFF IN YOU:

FOR YOU, THE EAGER LEARNER:

FOR THE YOU YEARNING TO BE PAMPERED:

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA

NEW YORK, NEW YORK

CAPE MAY, NEW JERSEY

A 75-minute drive from here will lead you to Camden, where you can bring the family aboard Battleship New Jersey Museum & Memorial. It’s open every day, with artifacts and exhibits that give visitors a look at the country’s military history. When you’re ready to dive deeper into the story, head over the Benjamin Franklin Bridge into Philadelphia. America’s birthplace is the home to Independence National Historic Park and Independence Hall, where our country’s forefathers adopted the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. A few steps away is the Liberty Bell—you can read about and take photos with the famed bell, which once rang in the tower of the Pennsylvania State House. (No cracks about the crack, please.) Also nearby are the Betsy Ross House and The Franklin Institute, one of the oldest science museums. Beyond history: Whether you’re a first-timer to the city or a frequent visitor, a trip to the Philadelphia Museum of Art should be on the agenda (a photo on the iconic Rocky steps is a must), as well as a stop at the Reading Terminal Market and John’s Roast Pork for cheesesteaks. Information: discoverphl.com

Traveling into Gotham during the holidays can be a challenge for drivers, but one reason you should consider heading in is to see what’s new at the American Museum of Natural History. There’s a lesson to be learned in every hall and gallery, and plenty that simply wows, from the 94-foot-long blue whale model to the colossal Tyrannosaurus Rex display. Then there’s the massive 230,000-square-foot Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education and Innovation, which opened this past spring. It offers a 360-degree immersive experience, a butterfly vivarium and an insectarium and is an architectural marvel that all ages can appreciate. Beyond learning: While the crowds gather at Rockefeller Center to see the tree or travel to Times Square for a glimpse at this year’s ball, head over to Central Park, where you can iceskate at Wollman Rink. (Lasker Rink is closed for renovations.) Not far from the rink is the Central Park Zoo, which has winter hours from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day. Information: amnh.org

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Treat your body and soul at Sea Spa at Congress Hall in Cape May, a gem down the Jersey Shore. You’ll forget it’s winter here, where the facility shines with bright yellow walls and a coastal motif featuring framed vintage beachwear. For more R&R, sign up for one of the many spa experiences or pamper yourself with services such as facials, massages and manicures. Consider the 100-minute Ocean Memory Marine Ritual, which includes a full-body sea salt exfoliation and a soothing massage meant to replicate the motion of the ocean. Guys, don’t feel left out: Packages such as the Hot Towel Treatment and the Gentleman’s Facial are geared just for you! Beyond spas: You may not be thinking about a dip in the ocean this time of year, but winter is a perfect time to visit Washington Street Mall. Without the summertime crowd, you’ll be free to stroll and make the most of its 75 tempting eateries, bars, shops and boutiques. Information: caperesorts.com/congress-hall

DECEMBER 2023/JANUARY 2024

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DECEMBER 2023/JANUARY 2024

11/13/23 11:21 AM

TASTES

Roll It Up

Holiday eating is about presentation as much as flavor. These meaty mains have you covered for both.

MUSHROOM, SPINACH AND OLIVE STUFFED BEEF TENDERLOIN Yields 8 servings INGREDIENTS n 1 beef tenderloin, trimmed and sliced or pounded flat n 1 small sweet onion, chopped n 1/2 cup chopped Kalamata olives, chopped n 1/2 bag baby spinach n 2 Tbs. butter n 1 cup mushrooms, chopped n olive oil n salt and pepper n cooking twine for wrapping up the tenderloin

DIRECTIONS Flatten the tenderloin. If you’re feeling adventurous you can do this yourself by butterflying the tenderloin lengthwise, then pounding it flat to around ¼ inch. Or, ask the butcher where you purchased the tenderloin—he/she will most likely do this step for you free of charge. In a deep skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and sauté the diced onion, season with salt and pepper and cook until slightly tender. Then add in the chopped mushrooms and cook until tender. Lower heat and add in the olives and spinach. Stir until the spinach has wilted and reduced. Remove from pan and allow it to cool to room temp. Note: Do not fill the tenderloin with hot filling; it could start to cook from the inside out. Lay the flattened tenderloin out and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Once the filling has cooled, place a layer of filling over the entire tenderloin. Starting at the short end and using both hands, tightly roll the meat into itself. Then, using cooking twine, tie the roll so it stays together while cooking. Bake at 270°F for about 1 hour or the internal temperature reaches 125°F for medium-rare. Cover with foil and allow to rest at least 10 minutes prior to slicing. Serve with horseradish sauce or make a gravy out of the pan drippings.

“Many cuts of beef are typically high in saturated fat, which can increase your risk of heart disease and high cholesterol, but beef tenderloin is both tender and lean. Lean cuts of beef are an excellent source of many vitamins and minerals like vitamin B12, zinc, iron and selenium, which are all important in keeping your body healthy and strong.” —Michelle Caravella, registered dietitian, Normalizing Nutrition, Bradley Beach

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DECEMBER 2023/JANUARY 2024

11/15/23 4:36 PM

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DECEMBER 2023/JANUARY 2024

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TASTES

CHICKEN CORDON BLEU Yields 4 servings INGREDIENTS For the chicken: n 4 chicken breasts n 8 slices Swiss cheese n 8 slices deli ham n 1 cup all-purpose flour n 2 large eggs, beaten n 2 cups panko bread crumbs n kosher salt n black pepper, freshly ground n 4 Tbs. melted butter n 1 tsp. dried oregano For the sauce: n 4 Tbs. butter n 1/4 cup all-purpose flour n 2 cup milk n 2 Tbs. Dijon mustard n 1/4 cup Parmesan, freshly grated

DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 400°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Place a chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap on a cutting board and flatten to a 1/4-inch thickness with a meat mallet or rolling pin. Top chicken with 2 slices of cheese, then 2 slices of ham. Starting at the top of the breast, roll up tightly and secure with toothpicks. Repeat with remaining chicken breasts. Place flour, eggs and panko in three shallow bowls. Season flour with salt and pepper. Add melted butter and oregano to panko and mix until incorporated. Working with one at a time, roll chicken first in flour, then eggs, then panko mixture, pressing to coat. Place on prepared baking sheet. Bake until golden and cooked through, 30 minutes. Meanwhile, make the sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add flour and stir until golden, 2 minutes. Slowly whisk in milk, then add mustard. Let simmer until thickened, 5 minutes. Add Parmesan and stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper. Remove toothpicks from chicken and serve with sauce.

“You can make a meatless version of this dish by substituting the chicken with portobello mushrooms and forgoing the ham. Still equally delicious, the substitution has less sodium and saturated fat. And you can rest easy when eating Swiss cheese; it’s one of lowest-sodium cheese options, making it another heart-healthy choice.” —Michelle Caravella, registered dietitian, Normalizing Nutrition, Bradley Beach

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DECEMBER 2023/JANUARY 2024

11/17/23 4:13 PM

SPECIAL SECTION

MONMOUTH COUNTY’S

TOP DOCTORS

2023 MONMOUTH COUNTY IS HOME TO SOME OF THE MOST PROMINENT AND SOUGHT-AFTER PHYSICIANS IN THE COUNTRY. To help you find the best of the best, across 40 specialties, Monmouth magazine commissioned Professional Research Services (PRS) of Troy, Michigan to conduct a peer-review survey of thousands of practicing and active physicians across the county. Doctors were asked to select peers whom they deem are the best within their practice areas and whom they would seek out for particular procedures. All the final honorees were fact-checked with the State of New Jersey and the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs License Verification System. The highest vote getters within each specialty who are in good standing with the state are included here in the 2023 “Monmouth County’s Top Doctors” list. While not every outstanding area doctor is listed in the 2023 “Monmouth County Top Doctors” list, we think you will find it to be a valuable resource in the future for all your physician needs.

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ALLERGY AND IMMUNOLOGY

CARDIAC ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY

CARMINE J. DEFUSCO Carmine J. DeFusco, MD, PA 224 Taylors Mills Rd., Suite 103 Manalapan, NJ 07726 732-462-0666

CHARLES H. KOO Monmouth Cardiology Associates, LLC 11 Meridian Rd. Eatontown, NJ 07724 732-663-0300

KATHERINE F. SZEMA ENT and Allergy Associates, LLP 1131 Broad St. Building A, Suite 103 Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 732-389-3388

ANESTHESIOLOGY JUAN BERMUDEZ Surgical Institute 3613 Route 33 Neptune, NJ 07753 732-918-0061 WAHEED K. ERAKY RWJ Barnabas Health Monmouth Medical Center 300 Second Ave. Long Branch, NJ 07740 732-923-6980 SCOTT FISHER Atlantic Ambulatory Anesthesia Associates 655 Shrewsbury Ave. Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 732-945-3921 JOHN MAK National Spine & Pain Centers - Freehold 55 Schanck Rd., Suite 18A Freehold, NJ 07728 732-431-9544

BREAST SURGERY DEBRA E. CAMAL Hackensack Meridian Health Health and Wellness Center Eatontown 135 Route 35 Eatontown, NJ 07724 732-531-5200 LAURIE J. KIRSTEIN Memorial Sloan Kettering Monmouth 480 Red Hill Rd. Middletown, NJ 07748 848-225-6121 JOHN PELLEGRINO Breast Surgery & Breast Oncology 901 W. Main St., Suite 102 Freehold, NJ 07728 732-458-4600

CANCER SURGERY GREGORY J. TIESI Hackensack Meridian Health Primary Care 19 Davis Ave., Floor 2 Neptune, NJ 07753 732-776-4770

MARK MASCARENHAS Monmouth Cardiology Associates, LLC 11 Meridian Rd. Eatontown, NJ 07724 732-663-0300

CARDIOLOGY MATT BACH Monmouth Cardiology Associates, LLC 11 Meridian Rd. Eatontown, NJ 07724 732-663-0300 RAVI DIWAN Shore Heart Group 1820 Route 33, Suite 4B Neptune, NJ 07753 732-776-8500 BHARATH SATHYA Monmouth Cardiology Associates, LLC 11 Meridian Rd. Eatontown, NJ 07724 732-663-0300 LAITH ZAMEL American Heart Center, PC 1900 Route 33 Omni Center Neptune, NJ 07753 732-663-1123

COLON AND RECTAL SURGERY THOMAS R. LAKE Hackensack Meridian Health Atlantic Surgical Group 255 Monmouth Rd. Oakhurst, NJ 07755 732-531-5445

CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE AND PULMONARY DISEASE MONA S. AWAD Hackensack Meridian Health 1 Bethany Rd., Suite 85 Hazlet, NJ 07730 732-264-5005 SAM T. BEBAWY Central Jersey Pulmonary and Medical Associates 719 N. Beers St., Suites 2E & F Holmdel, NJ 07733 732-264-1001 MATTHEW FRANK Shore Pulmonary, PA 301 Bingham Ave., Suite B Ocean, NJ 07712 732-775-9075

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DERMATOLOGY CYNTHIA GILSON Dermatology Specialists of Monmouth County 223 Monmouth Rd. West Long Branch, NJ 07764 732-870-2992 RISA J. GORIN Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center 225 Route 35, Suite 208 Red Bank, NJ 07701 732-747-5500 KENNETH A. GROSSMAN Little Silver Dermatology LLC 180 White Rd., Suite 103 Little Silver, NJ 07739 732-842-5222 IRWIN HAMETZ Schweiger Dermatology Group 4 Paragon Way Freehold, NJ 07728 732-462-9800 ANGELA MILLER Dermatology Specialists of Monmouth County 223 Monmouth Rd. West Long Branch, NJ 07764 732-870-2992 JASON H. MILLER Schweiger Dermatology Group 4 Paragon Way, Suite 300 Freehold, NJ 07728 732-462-9800 AARON J. MORGAN Morgan Dermatology 3405 Route 33, Floor 2 Neptune, NJ 07733 732-508-9390 DAVID D. PICASCIA Schweiger Dermatology Group 4 Paragon Way Freehold, NJ 07728 732-462-9800 KELLY QUINN Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center 225 Route 35, Suite 208 Red Bank, NJ 07701 732-747-5500

EAR, NOSE AND THROAT QASIM HUSAIN Coastal Ear, Nose & Throat 100 Commons Way, Suite 210 Holmdel, NJ 07753 732-280-7855

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KENNETH NEWKIRK Coastal Ear, Nose & Throat 3700 Route 33, Suite 101 Neptune City, NJ 07753 732-280-7855 ARVIND PRABHAT ENT and Allergy Associates, LLP 1131 Broad St. Building A, Suite 103 Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 732-389-3388 FRANK SCACCIA Riverside Facial Plastic Surgery and Nasal Center 70 E. Front St., Floor 3 Red Bank, NJ 07701 732-747-5300 DARSIT SHAH ENT and Allergy Associates, LLP 1131 Broad St. Building A, Suite 103 Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 732-389-3388 JOSEF SHARGORODSKY Coastal Ear, Nose & Throat 3700 Route 33, Suite 101 Neptune City, NJ 07753 732-280-7855 MICHAEL TAVILL ENT and Allergy Associates, LLP 1131 Broad St. Building A, Suite 103 Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 732-389-3388

ENDOCRINOLOGY, DIABETES AND METABOLISM RITU MALIK ANAND Hackensack Meridian Health Endocrinology and Metabolism 180 White Rd., Suite 204 Little Silver, NJ 07739 732-842-4111 KRISHNA K. CHALASANI Hackensack Meridian Health Primary Care 19 Davis Ave., Floor 6 Neptune, NJ 07753 732-897-3980 SMITA KARGUTKAR ACE Endocrinology Associates, PC 225 Route 35 North, Suite 102B Red Bank, NJ 07701 732-413-8000 DANIELLE E. LANN Hackensack Meridian Health Primary Care 19 Davis Ave., Floor 2 Neptune, NJ 07753 732-776-4770 RITU MALIK ANAND The TrueU Weight Loss at Advanced Endocrinology & Weight Management 180 White Rd., Suite 204 Little Silver, NJ 07739 732-842-4111

RAQUEL KRISTIN S. ONG Hackensack Meridian Health Primary Care 19 Davis Ave., Floor 6 Neptune, NJ 07753 732-897-3980 IGOR PRIVEN Endocrinology Associates of New Jersey - Manalapan 200 Craig Rd., Suite 202 Manalapan, NJ 07726 732-845-2200 MELISSA YOUNG MidAtlantic Diabetes & Endocrinology 555 Iron Bridge Rd., Suite 18 Freehold, NJ 07728 732-409-6233

FAMILY MEDICINE HAMMAD ABDELQUADER Freehold Family Health Center 597 Park Ave., Suite B Freehold, NJ 07728 732-294-2540 PHILIP ANGELLO Family Practice of CentraState 281 Route 34, Suite 813 Colts Neck, NJ 07722 732-431-2620 AVERY F. BROWNE AFC Urgent Care 1140 Route 34 Aberdeen, NJ 07747 732-583-5100 MICHAEL CARSON Hackensack Meridian Health Primary Care 700 Crescent Pl., Suite 9 Sea Girt, NJ 08750 732-974-0340 MARIA F. CIMINELLI Family Medicine Residency Program - Freehold Family Health Center 597 Park Ave., Suite B Freehold, NJ 07728 732-294-2540 ALICIA DERMER Family Medicine Residency Program Freehold Family Health Center 597 Park Ave., Suite B Freehold, NJ 07728 732-294-2540 MARC FEINGOLD Marc Feingold, MD, LLC 420 Bridge Plaza Dr. Manalapan, NJ 07726 732-536-8008 MARK GERSHENBAUM CentraState Healthcare System 901 W. Main St. Freehold, NJ 07728 732-431-0023

JAY GOLDSTEIN PRP Hair Loss Treatment Center 143 South St. Freehold, NJ 07728 732-859-3193

HOWARD HAMPEL Red Bank Gastroenterology 365 Broad St. Red Bank, NJ 07701 732-842-4294

STEVEN A. GORCEY Monmouth Digestive Health 145 Wyckoff Rd., Suite 201 Eatontown, NJ 07724 732-597-7333

SANDHYA SHUKLA Atlantic Coast Gastroenterology Associates 1944 Corlies Ave., Suite 205 Neptune, NJ 07753 732-776-9300

ZEESHAN KHAN Freehold Family Health Center 597 Park Ave., Suite B Freehold, NJ 07728 732-294-2540 MIAH KIM Jackson Family Practice 55 Schanck Rd., Suite A-20 Freehold, NJ 07728 732-683-0010 SHELLI A. KOGAN Allure MD Spa & Wellness Center 25 Kilmer Dr. Building 3, Suite 105 Morganville, NJ 07751 732-851-7005 KRISTINE I. MCCOY Integrated Medicine Alliance Urgent Care Shrewsbury 1026 Broad St., Unit 18 Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 732-542-0002 AHMED REZK VNA Health Group Visiting Physician Services 23 Main St., Suite D1 Holmdel, NJ 07733 732-571-1000 MARYANA TSELNIKER Comprehensive Family Medical 100 Craig Rd., Suite 110 Manalapan, NJ 07726 732-414-6506

GASTROENTEROLOGY REZA AKHTAR Shore Gastroenterology Associates 1907 Route 35, Suite 1 Oakhurst, NJ 07755 732-517-0060 BARBARA CENCORA Advanced Gastroenterology Associates 55 Willow Ln., Suite 201 Englishtown, NJ 07726 732-370-2220 RICHARD L. EICHEL Richard L. Eichel, MD 180 White Rd., Suite 104 Little Silver, NJ 07739 732-530-3228 ERIC J. ESCHINGER Red Bank Gastroenterology 365 Broad St. Red Bank, NJ 07701 732-842-4294

KAILASH C. SINGHVI Kailash C. Singhvi, MD 509 Stillwells Corner Rd. Unit E8 Freehold, NJ 07728 732-677-3737

TOP DOCTORS LISTINGS

NIRAV N. SHAH Pulmonary Associates of CentraState Star and Barry Tobias Ambulatory Campus 901 W. Main St., Suite 160 Freehold, NJ 07728 732-577-0600

PENNY S. TURTEL Shore Gastroenterology Associates 1907 Route 35, Suite 1 Oakhurst, NJ 07755 732-517-0060

GENERAL SURGERY FRANK BORAO Specialty Surgical Associates 10 Industrial Way East Suite 104 Eatontown, NJ 07724 732-389-1331 ALEXANDER ITSKOVICH CentraState Surgical Oncology 901 W. Main St. Cancer Center G1 Freehold, NJ 07728 732-698-8935

GERIATRIC MEDICINE REKHA GOHEL Elite Medical Care of Freehold 318 Professional View Dr. Freehold, NJ 07728 732-409-6440

HAND SURGERY TEDDY L. ATIK Central Jersey Hand Surgery 234 Industrial Way West Building B, Floor 2 Eatontown, NJ 07724 732-542-4477 RAYMOND G. DECKER, JR. Central Jersey Hand Surgery 234 Industrial Way West Building B, Floor 2 Eatontown, NJ 07724 732-542-4477 GEORGE M. GABUZDA Central Jersey Hand Surgery 234 Industrial Way West Building B, Floor 2 Eatontown, NJ 07724 732-542-4477 JOSEPH T. GOWER Seaview Orthopaedics 2139 Route 35 North, Suite 140 Holmdel, NJ 07733 732-897-4800

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TOP DOCTORS LISTINGS

GARY M. PESS Central Jersey Hand Surgery 234 Industrial Way West Building B, Floor 2 Eatontown, NJ 07724 732-542-4477

HEMATOLOGY AND ONCOLOGY MADHURIMA ANNE Hematology Oncology Associates, LLC 19 Davis Ave., Floor 2 Neptune, NJ 07753 732-528-0760 BHAVESH BALAR Regional Cancer Care Associates 326 Professional View Dr. Pond View Professional Park, Building 300 Freehold, NJ 07728 732-479-8580 AILEEN L. CHEN Regional Cancer Care Associates 326 Professional View Dr. Pond View Professional Park, Building 300 Freehold, NJ 07728 732-479-8580 DENIS FITZGERALD Regional Cancer Care Associates 180 White Rd., Suite 101 Little Silver, NJ 07739 732-401-9764 DAVID B. GREENBERG Atlantic Hematology Oncology Associates, LLC 19 Davis Ave. Neptune, NJ 07753 732-528-0760 GURPREET S. LAMBA Regional Cancer Care Associates 326 Professional View Dr. Pond View Professional Park, Building 300 Freehold, NJ 07728 732-479-8580 MICHAEL J. LEVITT Atlantic Hematology Oncology Associates, LLC 19 Davis Ave. Neptune, NJ 07753 732-528-0760 JEFFREY SILBERBERG Regional Cancer Care Associates 326 Professional View Dr. Pond View Professional Park, Building 300 Freehold, NJ 07728 732-479-8580

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INFECTIOUS DISEASE SUKRUT DWIVEDI ID Care - NJ’s Infectious Disease Specialists 1912 Route 35, Suite 101 Oakhurst, NJ 07755 732-222-4762 JOSE M. FUNE Hackensack Meridian Health Infectious Disease 19 Davis Ave., Floor 6 Neptune, NJ 07753 732-897-3995 EDWARD W. LIU Hackensack Meridian Health Infectious Disease 19 Davis Ave., Floor 6 Neptune, NJ 07753 732-897-3995

INTERNAL MEDICINE

LESLIE SOJKA Family Practice of CentraState 901 W. Main St., Suite 305B Freehold, NJ 07728 732-462-0100

VASKO GULEVSKI Caring Neurology 77 Schanck Rd., Suite B11 Freehold, NJ 07728 732-515-6155

JAYANTHI TALAMATI Sunanda Krishna, MD, LLC 401 Main St. Manalapan, NJ 07726 732-851-6622

NEUROSURGERY

MATERNAL AND FETAL MEDICINE DAVID GONZALEZ RWJ Barnabas Health David Gonzalez, MD 200 Wyckoff Rd., Suite 3200 Eatontown, NJ 07724 732-870-3600

WILLIAM W. MAGGIO Hackensack Meridian Health Primary Care 19 Davis Ave., Floor 4 Neptune, NJ 07753 732-974-0003

NEPHROLOGY

MARK R. MCLAUGHLIN Princeton Brain, Spine & Sports Medicine 901 W. Main St. Building A, Suite 267 Freehold, NJ 07728 732-333-8702

INDU GOPAL CentraState Healthcare System 515 Ironbridge Rd. Freehold, NJ 07728 732-294-9922

JOHN DEPALMA Shore Renal Care - Lincroft 551 Newman Springs Rd. Unit 2 Lincroft, NJ 07748 732-741-1032

DENISE HAYWARD Integrated Medicine Alliance River Road Primary Care 569 River Rd. Fair Haven, NJ 07704 732-530-0100

HARRY DOUNIS Shore Nephrology, PA 2100 Corlies Ave., Suite 15 Neptune, NJ 07753 732-988-8228

HOWARD A. KATZ Advanced Internal Medicine of Colts Neck 9 Professional Cir., Suite 210 Colts Neck, NJ 07722 732-761-8170 CATHIE ANN MANCUSO Hackensack Meridian Health Primary Care 436 Route 79, Suite 11 Morganville, NJ 07751 732-263-7970 ANTHONY J. MORELLI RWJ Barnabas Health Monmouth Medical Center 300 Second Ave., Floor 2 Long Branch, NJ 07740 732-923-6696 NANCY C. PETERS Family Practice of CentraState 281 Route 34, Suite 813 Colts Neck, NJ 07722 732-431-2620 LUDMILA RIDLOVSKY Advanced Medicine, PC 186 County Rd., Suite 520 Morganville, NJ 07751 732-851-4955 LEONARD J. SCHINDEL Leonard J. Schindel, MD 28 Briarhill Dr. Manalapan, NJ 07726 732-303-0700

SHABBAR F. DANISH Hackensack Meridian Health Primary Care 19 Davis Ave., Floor 4 Neptune, NJ 07753 732-974-0003

HARNEET KAUR Atlantic Kidney Care 176 Route 9, Suite 207 Englishtown, NJ 07726 732-734-0775 ARIEL MEYER Ocean Renal Associates Neptune 444 Neptune Blvd., Suite 5 Neptune, NJ 07755 732-458-5854

NEUROLOGY ARUN R. ANTONY Hackensack Meridian Health - Dr. Robert H. Harris Neuroscience Treatment Center 1945 Route 33, Amdur Pavilion Neptune, NJ 07754 732-897-3600 DAVID B. DUNCAN Hackensack Meridian Health Jersey Shore University Medical Center 1945 Route 33 Neptune, NJ 07753 732-897-3620 DAVID J. FRANK Hackensack Meridian Health - Central Jersey Neurology Associates 501 Iron Bridge Rd., Suite 3 Freehold, NJ 07728 732-462-7030

NITESH V. PATEL Hackensack Meridian Health Primary Care 19 Davis Ave., Floor 4 Neptune, NJ 07753 732-974-0003 SIMON A. SALERNO Hackensack Meridian Health Primary Care 19 Davis Ave., Floor 4 Neptune, NJ 07753 732-974-0003

OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY RONNIE Z. BOCHNER RWJ OB/GYN Associates 50 Franklin Ln., Suite 203 Manalapan, NJ 07726 732-536-7110 JOSEPH A. CIPRIANO Hackensack Meridian Health - Obstetrics and Gynecology Freehold 312 Professional View Dr. Building 300 Freehold, NJ 07728 732-431-1616 JESSICA FISCHETTI-GALVIN Sunrise OBGYN 831 Tennent Rd. Manalapan, NJ 07726 732-972-4200 WILLIAM KAUFMAN Shore Area OB/GYN 200 White Rd., Suite 105 Little Silver, NJ 07739 732-741-3331

FALGUNI PATEL Women’s Healthcare & Wellness - Falguni Patel, MD, FACOG 1340 Route 34 Aberdeen, NJ 07747 732-444-4859 MARK J. SEIGEL RWJ Barnabas Health Mark Seigel, MD 3520 Route 9 South Freehold, NJ 07728 732-431-1807 KAREN M. SMITH West Long Branch OB/GYN 1019 Broadway West Long Branch, NJ 07764 732-229-6797 MINDY WISER-ESTIN Shore Area OB/GYN 200 White Rd., Suite 105 Little Silver, NJ 07739 732-741-3331

OPHTHALMOLOGY RALPH G. DEL NEGRO Del Negro & Senft Eye Associates 1809 Corlies Ave., Suite 1 Neptune, NJ 07753 732-774-5566 JOHN GHOBRIAL Eye Associates of Monmouth 410 Route 34, Suite 218 Colts Neck, NJ 07722 732-431-6688 RONALD KRISTAN Atlantic Eye 279 Third Ave., Suite 204 Long Branch, NJ 07740 732-222-7373 REVATHI P. NAADIMUTHU Freehold Ophthalmology 509 Stillwells Corner, Suite E5 Freehold, NJ 07728 732-431-9333 SEEMA PATEL Freehold Ophthalmology 509 Stillwells Corner, Suite E5 Freehold, NJ 07728 732-431-9333 MARVIN TALANSKY Eye Diagnostic & Surgery Center 3333 Fairmont Ave. Wanamassa, NJ 07712 732-988-4000

ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY CRISTOBAL BEIRO University Orthopaedic Associates - Morganville 280 Route 9 North Morganville, NJ 07751 732-387-5750

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ANTHONY COSTA Orthocenter - Red Bank 80 Oak Hill Rd. Red Bank, NJ 07701 732-741-2313 GARRICK COX North Jersey Orthopaedic Group - Little Silver 200 White Rd., Suite 108 Little Silver, NJ 07739 732-212-2940 MICHAEL J. GRELLER Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute 301 Professional View Dr. Pond View Professional Park, Building 300 Freehold, NJ 07728 732-479-7626 HOAN-VU NGUYEN Seaview Orthopaedics 222 Schanck Rd. Freehold, NJ 07728 732-462-1700 ANTHONY V. PETROSINI Orthopaedic Institute Brielle Orthopaedics (OIBO) - Freehold 1043 W. Main St. Freehold, NJ 07728 732-800-9000 GARRET L. SOBOL Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute 301 Professional View Dr. Pond View Professional Park, Building 300 Freehold, NJ 07728 732-479-7626

PAIN MEDICINE CHARLES B. DAKNIS Seaview Orthopaedics 222 Schanck Rd. Freehold, NJ 07728 732-462-1700 MICHAEL DOBROW Monmouth Pain 174 Patterson Ave. Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 732-345 -1377 ADAM MEYERS Seaview Orthopaedics 222 Schanck Rd. Freehold, NJ 07728 732-462-1700 DAN-THUY V. TRAN Seaview Orthopaedics 222 Schanck Rd. Freehold, NJ 07728 732-462-1700

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SCOTT WOSKA Shore Spine & Pain Monmouth County 35 Gilbert St. South Tinton Falls, NJ 07701 732-584-2400

ARVIND PATEL Hackensack Meridian Health Pediatrics - Freehold 315 W. Main St., Suite A Freehold, NJ 07728 732-431-3373

PEDIATRIC CARDIOLOGY

SUZANNE PLAINE Hackensack Meridian Health Pediatrics - Sea Girt 2130 Route 35, Suite B216 Sea Girt, NJ 08750 732-974-0228

MITCHEL B. ALPERT Alpert Zales & Castro Pediatric Cardiology 2 Apple Farm Rd. Red Bank, NJ 07701 732-671-5659 ELSA I. CASTRO Alpert Zales & Castro Pediatric Cardiology 2 Apple Farm Rd. Red Bank, NJ 07701 732-671-5659

PEDIATRIC ENDOCRINOLOGY KATHERINE A. BECKWITHFICKAS Hackensack Meridian Health Primary Care 19 Davis Ave., Floor 5 Neptune, NJ 07753 732-776-4860

PEDIATRIC GASTROENTEROLOGY JENNIFER JIMENEZ Hackensack Meridian Health Primary Care 19 Davis Ave., Floor 5 Neptune, NJ 07753 732-776-4860 BETH LOVERIDGE LENZA Hackensack Meridian Health Primary Care 19 Davis Ave., Floor 5 Neptune, NJ 07753 732-776-4860 HARPREET PALL Hackensack Meridian Health Primary Care 19 Davis Ave., Floor 5 Neptune, NJ 07753 732-776-4860 JONATHAN E. TEITELBAUM RWJ Barnabas Health Jonathan E. Teitelbaum, MD 200 Wyckoff Rd., Suite 4200 Eatontown, NJ 07724 732-923-6080

PEDIATRICS (GENERAL) JOCELYN B. BAUTISTA Colts Neck Pediatrics - Jocelyn B. Bautista, MD, FAAP 410 Route 34, Suite 212 Colts Neck, NJ 07722 732-683-0099 SAMANTHA LEIB Advocare Union Hill Pediatrics 85 Bridge Plaza Dr. Manalapan, NJ 07726 732-972-1117

VRINDA SHAH Advocare Heal and Care Pediatrics 100 Professional View Dr. Suite 101 Freehold, NJ 07728 732-866-9300 SONAL SHAH Advocare Union Hill Pediatrics 85 Bridge Plaza Dr. Manalapan, NJ 07726 732-972-1117

PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION CHETAN ANAND Advanced Pain Management 65 Mechanic St., Suite 105 Red Bank, NJ 07701 732-268-7130 JORGE F. CORZO Hackensack Meridian Health Riverview Medical Center 1 Riverview Plaza, Floor 2 Red Bank, NJ 07701 732-264-1132

PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY ANDREW ELKWOOD The Plastic Surgery Center 535 Sycamore Ave. Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 855-980-6981 CAROLINE A. GLICKSMAN Glicksman Plastic Surgery 2164 Route 35, Building A Sea Girt, NJ 08750 732-974-2424 MATTHEW KAUFMAN The Plastic Surgery Center 535 Sycamore Ave. Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 855-980-6981 MICHAEL NAGY Michael Nagy MD, FACS 2333 Route 34 Wall Township, NJ 08736 732-282-0002 TUSHAR PATEL The Plastic Surgery Center 535 Sycamore Ave. Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 855-980-6981

CHARLES PIERCE Rowe Plastic Surgery 267 Broad St. Red Bank, NJ 07701 732-913-8591 MICHAEL ROSE The Plastic Surgery Center 535 Sycamore Ave. Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 855-980-6981 MANOJ M. THAKKER Monarch Eyelid & Facial Plastic Surgery 719 N. Beers St., Unit 2G Holmdel, NJ 07733 732-739-3223

PODIATRY EVAN ADLER Bear Foot and Ankle 301 Bingham Ave., Floor 2 Ocean, NJ 07712 732-847-2500 ROSE A. CARUSO Caruso Foot & Ankle 38 Thoreau Dr. Freehold, NJ 07728 732-366-9866 BRENT ROSENTHAL Brent Rosenthal, DPM, FACFAS 800 W. Main St., Suite 1A Freehold, NJ 07728 732-577-1222

PSYCHIATRY MOUSTAFA SHAFEY CentraState Healthcare System 901 W. Main St. Ambulatory Campus, Building A., Suite 367 Freehold, NJ 07728 732-637-6351

RADIATION ONCOLOGY DOUGLAS A. MILLER Shore Radiation Oncology Jersey Shore University Medical Center 1945 Route 33 Neptune, NJ 07753 732-776-4404 PRITI PATEL Shore Radiation Oncology Riverview Medical Center 1 Riverview Plaza Red Bank, NJ 07701 732-530-2468

REPRODUCTIVE ENDOCRINOLOGY/ INFERTILITY MIGUEL DAMIEN Damien Fertility Partners 655 Shrewsbury Ave. Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 732-758-6511

THOMAS MOLINARO Reproductive Medicine Associates 2 Industrial Way West Meridian Center 1, Suite 204 Eatontown, NJ 07724 732-935-1002 MARIE D. WERNER Reproductive Medicine Associates 2 Industrial Way West Meridian Center 1, Suite 204 Eatontown, NJ 07724 732-935-1002 WILLIAM ZIEGLER Reproductive Science Center of New Jersey 234 Industrial Way West Suite A104 Eatontown, NJ 07724 732-918-2500

TOP DOCTORS LISTINGS

DAVID CHALNICK Seaview Orthopaedics 222 Schanck Rd. Freehold, NJ 07728 732-462-1700

SPORTS MEDICINE DHIMANT J. BALAR Princeton Brain, Spine & Sports Medicine 901 W. Main St. Building A, Suite 267 Freehold, NJ 07728 732-333-8702 STEVE L. WEINTRAUB RWJ Barnabas Health Steve L. Weintraub 186 Route 520 Morganville, NJ 07751 732-946-2100

THORACIC SURGERY ZIAD G. HANHAN Hackensack Meridian Health Riverview Medical Center 1 Riverview Plaza Red Bank, NJ 07701 732-530-2410

VASCULAR SURGERY VIKALP JAIN Hackensack Meridian Health Vascular Surgery 19 Davis Ave., Floor 4 Neptune, NJ 07753 732-212-6598 OWANO PENNYCOOKE Associates in Vascular Care 1000 Route 35 South, Suite 301 Middletown, NJ 07748 732-784-6550 MATTHEW S. SAMRA Atlantic Medical Imaging Vascular Institute 1820 Corlies Ave., Suite 9 Neptune City, NJ 07753 732-206-8455 JONATHAN WEISWASSER Aesthetic Vascular Associates, LLC 535 Sycamore Ave. Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 888-740-4233

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TOP DOCTORS PROFILES

Falguni Patel, MD

Rejuvenate Center for Medical Aesthetics & Wellness 1340 Rte. 34, Aberdeen Township, NJ 07747 • 732.444.4859 • www.rejuvenatenj.com 1719 Main St. Ste 101, Lake Como, NJ 07719 • 732.444.4859 DR. FALGUNI PATEL IS A BOARD-CERTIFIED GYNECOLOGIST AND OBSTETRICIAN WITH OVER 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE performing gynecological plastic surgery. After opening her integrative practice in 2011, Dr. Patel and her team of professionals displayed commitment to a patient-centric approach that makes the practice a highly-respected and well-known destination for cosmetic gynecology. People who are looking for personalized assessments and treatments travel from both coasts and abroad for Dr. Patel’s services. “Many women in their late 30’s and early 40’s go through changes, but their gynecologist might not address their needs and changes,”

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says Dr. Patel. “We offer outside-of-the-box treatment and do a lot of non-traditional treatment.” Along with being a highly-skilled specialist in all aspects of cosmetic gynecology, Dr. Patel specializes in facial aesthetics, body treatments, injectables, and bio-identical hormones. She utilizes advanced medical techniques and state-ofthe-art procedures to guarantee that patients receive the highest level of care from pre-op to recovery. Patients acknowledge Dr. Patel’s dedication to ensuring their comfort. One patient says: “From the moment I walked in for my consultation, I felt so comfortable and welcomed. I consulted with Dr. Patel for the non-surgical labiaplasty treatment with Aviva and

11/17/23 10:04 AM

TOP DOCTORS PROFILES

Morpheus8. I love how honest and straightforward she is with you.” Another past patient agrees, saying: “After a year since my vaginoplasty, I can’t emphasize enough how it’s been a game-changer for me. My choice was driven by the need to address pelvic floor issues stemming from a traumatic childbirth and stage III endometriosis. Dr. Patel and her team were exceptional, making the preparation and surgery experience reassuring.” The most-requested invasive procedures offered at Rejuvenate Center for Medical Aesthetics & Wellness are labiaplasty and vaginal rejuvenation. Although vaginal rejuvenation has existed for many decades, Dr. Patel has seen a growing awareness in women of their options thanks to social media. “Most of my patients want to feel empowered,” she says. “As they age, many have addressed mommy makeovers, but they often feel left out when it comes to the sexual wellness portion of it.” Dr. Patel provides her patients with options that range from surgical procedures to non-invasive approaches and hormonal therapy. The Top Doctor listens to her patients who may not feel physically satisfied in their relationship and strives to dissect the root of any issues. “Almost all of my patients come back, sometimes with their partner, and say how when they got their confidence back in the bedroom that it made everything better in the marriage,” says Dr. Patel. “It is a matter of comfort and what the person wants

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or needs.” She adds that the purpose of her practice is making sure that women and men feel comfortable coming in to open up and discuss any issues they face, regardless of their severity. Priding herself on her relatability as a mother and career-oriented woman, Dr. Patel wants her patients to understand that she is no different than them. She sees who her patients are and assesses their needs to formulate the best individualized plan moving forward. “I think they know that I don’t judge them, I respect them, and that I’m able to find a solution for them,” says Dr. Patel. She sometimes sees three generations of women, including younger girls who she helps educate on the importance of healthy eating habits, proper exercise, practicing safe sex, and getting a good night’s sleep. Dr. Patel is a graduate of The Mount Sinai School of Medicine. She completed her residency training in obstetrics and gynecology from UMDNJ/RWJ in 2002. She has maintained her certification from the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and is also an expert in Pediatric and Adolescent gynecology.

11/17/23 10:05 AM

TOP DOCTORS PROFILES

Gary Pess, M.D., F.A.C.S., F.A.A.O.S. Raymond Decker Jr., M.D., F.A.C.S., F.A.A.O.S. George Gabuzda, M.D., F.A.C.S., F.A.A.O.S. Teddy Atik, M.D., F.A.A.O.S. Central Jersey Hand Surgery 234 Industrial Way W., Eatontown, NJ 07724 • 732.542.4477 • www.centraljerseyhand.com THE DOCTORS ARE ALL COMMITTED TO TREATING PATIENTS LIKE FAMILY and listening to their needs, says Dr. Gary Pess, a board-certified Orthopedic Hand Surgeon and renowned expert in minimally invasive hand surgery. They are experts in the field, treating complex hand and wrist conditions with small incisions. “It is definitely a priority of our practice to treat complex hand and upper extremity problems with non-surgical techniques,” says Dr. Teddy Atik. “We try to get patients better without surgery by using surgery as a last resort.” The patient experience at Central Jersey Hand Surgery is unique. A team of board-certified physicians utilizes modern conservative treatments, including needle aponeurotomy, Xiaflex, cortisone injections, therapy, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Whether an individual requires treatment to restore full function to their hands after arthritic deterioration or has an acute injury, the compassionate hand surgery team speaks in depth to them and provides critical examination prior to giving a diagnosis. “We treat every patient individually,” says Dr. Raymond Decker. “We look at what they do —

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whether it is work, a hobby, or something they enjoy doing — and use that information to help us recommend the best treatment to keep them doing what they love to do.” All of the doctors are fellowship trained in Hand and Microsurgery and are board certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery as Hand Surgeons and Orthopedic Surgeons. The team embraces a hands-on model as well—the practice’s use of fluoroscopy X-ray machines allows a doctor to conduct X-rays and stay in the room to examine the real-time moving images with their patients. With state-of-the-art practice locations in Freehold, Eatontown, and Toms River, they are readily accessible to all patients. Dr. George Gabuzda says, “Everybody at our practice is hand-picked to join the group. They have to meet the standards: Caring for patients, taking time for patients, and performing top notch surgery.”

11/17/23 10:05 AM

TOP DOCTORS PROFILES

Charles Pierce, DO, FACS Rowe Plastic Surgery

267 Broad St., Red Bank, NJ 07701 • 732.852.2770 • www.roweplasticsurgery.com TOP DOCTOR CHARLES PIERCE, DOUBLE BOARD-CERTIFIED BY THE AMERICAN BOARD OF SURGERY and the American Board of Plastic Surgery and a fellow of the American College of Surgeons, joined Rowe Plastic Surgery almost a decade ago to be amongst some of the sharpest minds and innovators in the field who are committed to a practice philosophy that builds lasting patient relationships through compassion and trust. Dr.Pierce specializes in cosmetic plastic surgery of the face, breast and body and breast reconstruction following cancer treatment. He also performs non-surgical cosmetic procedures that restore and refresh his client’s appearance and remove signs of aging including laser, fillers, Botox and skin care. For Dr. Pierce, patient safety is his top priority along with creating an aesthetic that enhances and rejuvenates his patient’s natural characteristics. In addition to his private practice, Dr. Pierce is an Assistant

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Clinical Professor of Plastic Surgery at Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine and is newly appointed as Chief of Plastic Surgery at Riverview Medical Center. He is also a Castle Connolly Top Doctor recognized by his peers for excellence in the practice of medicine. Dr. Pierce’s deep commitment to the health, wellness and happiness of his patients has earned him top accolades and repeat clients. Dr. Pierce as well as the practice have been featured in national beauty magazines including Allure, Cosmopolitan and Refinery29 and are proud sponsors of high-profile charitable events for important causes. Dr. Pierce and his kind and knowledgeable staff welcome patients at his offices in New Jersey and New York City with surgical privileges at multiple hospitals in the New York metropolitan area.

11/17/23 10:05 AM

TOP DOCTORS PROFILES

Andrew Elkwood

Tushar Patel

Michael Rose

Matthew Kaufman

Jonathan Weiswasser

Michael Rose, MD, FACS Andrew Elkwood, MD, FACS Matthew Kaufman, MD, FACS Tushar Patel, MD, FACS Jonathan Weiswasser, MD, FACS The Plastic Surgery Center

535 Sycamore Ave., Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 • 855.980.6981 • www.looknatural.com DR. MICHAEL ROSE, CHIEF OF THE DIVISION OF PLASTIC SURGERY AT JERSEY SHORE UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER, sees how honesty and safe practices bring transformative cosmetic surgery results. “I think patients pick up if you are just telling them what they want to hear. They like that I am straightforward with them about what is and is not feasible to accomplish,” says Dr. Rose. “I expect the same from the patients. If everyone is on the same page, you end up with a much better outcome every single time.” Along with being highly skilled in all aspects of cosmetic surgery, Dr. Rose specializes in reconstructive surgery following cancer or deforming accidents. He specializes in breast reduction and is skilled in complex nerve decompression surgery for people who suffer from all forms of neuropathy. Dr. Rose is one of a select group of plastic surgeons who is specifically trained in the technique. Double-board certified in plastic surgery and general surgery by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery, respectively, Dr. Rose listens to his patients and designs a plan that meets

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the person’s specific individual needs. Patient Christina A. says: “Dr. Rose’s bedside manner was fantastic and my results exceeded my expectations. The staff at the surgery center was wonderful as well. I’m looking forward to having another surgery in the future with Dr. Rose.” Dr. Rose completed a five-year general surgery residency at New York University Medical Center and Bellevue Hospital while doing a one-year fellowship in the plastic surgery laboratories at New York University Medical Center. He finished his training with a plastic and reconstructive surgery fellowship at Emory University, publishing research on the safety of cosmetic surgery. Dr. Rose says: “It’s critically important that if you are going to do elective surgery, it has to be safe. If the surgical center is properly certified, the surgeon follows appropriate safety guidelines, and the most up to date equipment is used, then elective surgery is amazingly safe.” Dr. Rose, along with his colleagues at The Plastic Surgery Center, are proud to provide patients with safe and effective surgical procedures and the aesthetic outcomes they desire.”

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TOP DOCTORS PROFILES

Michael W. Nagy, MD, FACS, Plastic Surgery of the Face & Body 2333 Highway 34S, Wall Twp. NJ 08736, 732.282.0002 • www.drnagy.com 1183 Main St., Asbury Park, NJ 07712, 732.997.3186 • www.fourthnmain.com DR. MICHAEL NAGY IS A HIGHLY SKILLED PLASTIC SURGEON with an impressive 18 years of experience in the field. He is highly-respected for his expertise in breast and cosmetic surgery, having completed a prestigious fellowship under the mentorship of a world-renowned plastic surgeon. With a commitment to excellence, Dr. Nagy serves patients in two convenient office locations in Wall Township and Asbury Park. A versatile practitioner, Dr. Nagy offers a wide range of surgical and nonsurgical options for creating beautiful, natural results enhancing the face, breast, and body. Additionally, he has an experienced team of physician assistants and aestheticians that offer injectables, laser treatments for skin resurfacing, skin rejuvenation, tattoo removal, micro-needling, hair rejuvenation, laser hair reduction, and many other innovative treatments. He prides himself on offering only the best of new technologies to ensure safety, efficacy and positive results for his patients. His dedication to

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patient care goes beyond the operating room, as he is known for his unwavering commitment to providing personalized and compassionate care to his patients. What truly sets Dr. Nagy apart is his humanitarian spirit. He has participated in two mission visits to Guatemala, working alongside other skilled reconstructive surgeons to provide much-needed care to those in desperate need. These trips are not just professional endeavors for Dr. Nagy, but also personally rewarding experiences that reflect his commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of those less fortunate. Dr. Michael Nagy’s journey as a plastic surgeon is marked by excellence, compassion, and a global perspective, making him a highly-respected and caring healthcare professional in his community and beyond.

11/17/23 10:05 AM

TOP DOCTORS PROFILES

Ralph G. Del Negro, DO

Del Negro & Senft Eye Associates 1809 Corlies Ave. Ste 1, Neptune, NJ 07753 • 732.774.5566 • www.dseye.com

DR. RALPH G. DEL NEGRO, managing partner of Del Negro & Senft Eye Associates, is a board-certified eye physician and surgeon and a glaucoma specialist. Since the inception of his practice in 1992, his approach has always been one of compassion and great care to afford his patients their ‘best vision.’ With extensive experience in the most advanced diagnostic and microsurgical techniques, he provides state-of-the art options to his patients. Most recently, he was the first to introduce the RxSight® Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) to cataract patients in Monmouth and Ocean counties. Patients, like Emmett Walling, are enjoying an improvement to their overall quality of vision with the LAL. He says: “Dr. Del Negro is an excellent doctor. He is very easy to talk with, patient with all my questions, and very professional. He is a talented surgeon.” Dr. Del Negro completed his undergraduate studies at Lafayette College before earning a medical degree at the University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey – School of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed his residency at Ohio University – Grandview Hospital, specializing in Ophthalmology, and did his fellowship training in glaucoma at the University of Louisville. Currently, he is chief of ophthalmology at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center and vice chair of ophthalmology at Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine. Dr. Del Negro is also a member of several ophthalmology societies.

Steven Gorcey, MD

Monmouth Digestive Health

145 Wyckoff Rd. Ste 201, Eatontown, NJ 07724 • 732.597.7333 www.monmouthdigestivehealth.com DR. STEVEN GORCEY, THE FOUNDER AND SOLE GASTROENTEROLOGIST at Monmouth Digestive Health, brings “concierge” gastroenterology to his patients. “I call it VIP without the fee,” says Dr. Gorcey. “It’s a very personal practice. People get the attention that they deserve.” Dr. Gorcey has practiced in Monmouth County for over 30 years, having previously founded Monmouth Gastroenterology in 1991. With over 20,000 colonoscopies performed, he strives to make the preparation process as easy as possible with same-day, low volume bowel prep. Dr. Gorcey performs most of his outpatient gastroenterology procedures at Advanced Endoscopy & Surgical Center in Eatontown and Monmouth Medical Center’s endoscopy unit.

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MONMOUTH COUNTY’S

TOP DOCTORS

2023 Find Doctor Listings and Contacts Online! monmouthmag.com/monmouth-topdoctors-2023

11/17/23 10:05 AM

ON THE TOWN

Where To Eat

Getting three squares a day has never been easier—Monmouth County is home to a selection of restaurants diverse enough to satisfy all of your cravings. Harborside Grill 40 First Ave. 732.291.0066 theharborsidegrill.com

Federico’s 700 Main St. 732.681.6936 federicospizza.com

Kunya Siam Thai Restaurant 99 First Ave. 732.291.2397 kunyasiam.com

La Dolce Vita 400 Ocean Ave. 732.749.3177 ladolcevitanj.com

On The Deck 10 Simon Lake Dr. 732.872.1424 onthedeckrestaurant.com AVON-BY-THE-SEA Clementine’s 306 Main St. 732.988.7979 clementinesavon.com Seed to Sprout 410 Main St. 732.774.7333 seedtosproutnj.com BELFORD Belford Bistro 870 Main St. 732.495.8151 belfordbistro.com Naples Pizzeria 872 Main St. 732.787.9479 BELMAR 10th Ave. Burrito Co. 801 Belmar Plz. 732.280.1515 tenthaveburrito.com

ASBURY PARK Asbury Festhalle & Biergarten 527 Lake Ave. 732.997.8767 asburybiergarten.com Cubacan Bar & Restaurant 800 Ocean Ave. N. 732.774.3007 cubacanrestaurant.com

Robinson Ale House 1200 Ocean Ave. N. 732.774.1400 therobinsonalehouse asburypark.com

Moonstruck 517 Lake Ave. 732.988.0123 moonstrucknj.com Pascal & Sabine 601 Bangs Ave. 732.774.3395 pascalandsabine.com Porta 911 Kingsley St. 732.776.7661 pizzaporta.com

Stella Marina Restaurant & Bar 800 Ocean Ave. 732.775.7776 stellamarinarestaurant.com

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Taka 660 Cookman Ave. 732.775.1020 takaasburypark.com

Talula’s 550 Cookman Ave. 732.455.3003 talulaspizza.com ATLANTIC HIGHLANDS Copper Canyon 51 First Ave. 732.291.8444 thecoppercanyon.com

Anchor Tavern 713 Main St. 732.280.2266 anchortavernnj.com Boathouse Bar & Grill 1309 Main St. 732.681.5221 boathousebarandgrill.com Brandl 703 Belmar Plz. 732.280.7501 brandlrestaurant.com

Simply Southern 817 Belmar Plz. 732.243.9259 simplysouthern comfortfoods.com BRADLEY BEACH The Buttered Biscuit 700 Main St. 732.807.4069 thebutteredbiscuitcafe. com The Elbow Room 416 Main St. 732.898.6860 elbowroomnj.com BRIELLE Due Amici 420 Higgins Ave. 732.528.0666 dueamicibriellenj.com La Mondina 110 Union Ave. 732.612.8331 lamondinabrielle.com The Pig And Parrot Sandbar 201 Union Ln. 732.528.7750 thepigandparrot.com Shipwreck Grill 720 Ashley Ave. 732.292.9380 shipwreckgrill.com Waterman’s Tavern 403 Higgins Ave. 732.722.8978 watermanstavern.net Belford Bistro

BELFORD BISTRO, BELFORD

DECEMBER 2023/JANUARY 2024

11/14/23 1:59 PM

ON THE TOWN

ENGLISHTOWN Rosalita’s Roadside Cantina 180 Rte. 9 732.617.0099 rosalitasnj.com FREEHOLD 618 Restaurant 618 Park Ave. 732.577.0001 618nj.com Aarzu Modern Indian Bistro 30 E. Main St. 732.333.0933 aarzu.com Court Jester 16 E. Main St. 732.462.1040 courtjesternj.com El Meson 40 W. Main St. 732.308.9494 elmesoncafe.com Federici’s Family Restaurant 14 E. Main St. 732.462.1312 federicis.com Metropolitan Cafe 8 E. Main St. 732.780.9400 metrocafenj.com Tommy’s Tavern + Tap 3492 Rte. 9 732.543.0053 tommystavernandtap.com Tre Pizza Pasta Beer Garden 611 Park Ave. 732.751.4422 trepizzanj.com HAZLET Neil Michael’s Steakhouse 1104 Rte. 36 732.217.3626 neilmichaelsteakhouse. com

Yesterday’s Restaurant 3153 Rte. 35 732.264.3777 yesterdaysnj.com HIGHLANDS Bahrs Landing 2 Bay Ave. 732.872.1245 bahrslandingnj.com Proving Ground 56 Shrewsbury Ave. 732.872.2266 theprovingground.com KEYPORT Drew’s Bayshore Bistro 25 Church St. 732.739.9219 drewsbayshorebistro.com Palumbo’s 24 Ayers Ln. 732.842.5505 LONG BRANCH 21A On Broadway 202 Broadway 732.483.6967 21aonbroadway.com

MANALAPAN Anemos Greek Cuisine 333 Rte. 9 732.414.6590 anemosgreekcuisine.com

MANASQUAN Blend On Main 390 E. Main St. 732.223.0030 blendonmain.com

MIDDLETOWN Crown Palace 1283 Rte. 35 S. 732.615.9888 crownpalacenj.com

Cholula Restaurant 24 Wilson Ave. 732.786.0080 cholularestaurant englishtown.com

Harpoon Willy’s 2655 River Rd. 732.223.8880 harpoonwillys.com

MJ’s Restaurant Bar & Grill 1005 Rte. 35 732.796.1400 mjsrestaurant.com

The Salty Whale 390 E. Main St. 732.592.3344 thesaltywhale.com

Manalapan Diner 48 Rte. 9 732.462.7165 manalapandiner.com

Squan Tavern 15 Broad St. 732.223.3324 squantavern.com

Nonna’s Citi Cucina 190 Rte. 9 N. 732.536.9050 nonnasnj.net

MATAWAN Buttonwood Manor 845 Rte. 34 N. buttonwoodmanor.com

Peking Pavilion 110 Rte. 33 732.308.9700 pekingpavilion.com

Neelam Exotic Indian Cuisine 1178 Rte. 35 S. 732.671.8900 neelamindiancuisine.com NEPTUNE Il Posto 1129 Fifth Ave. 732.775.4823

Pete & Elda’s 93 Summit Ave. 732.774.6010 peteandeldas.com OCEAN Illiano’s 933 W. Park Ave. 732.493.2003 illianosrestaurant.net Piccola Italia 837 W. Park Ave. 732.493.3090 piccolaitalianj.com

Avenue 23 Ocean Ave. 732.759.2900 leclubavenue.com Charley’s Ocean Grill 29 Avenel Blvd. 732.222.4499 charleysoceangrill.com Mar Belo 611 Broadway 732.870.2222 marbelorestaurant.com McLoone’s Pier House 1 Ocean Ave. N. 732.923.1006 mcloonespierhouse.com Rooney’s Oceanfront 100 Ocean Ave. N. 732.870.1200 rooneysocean.com Sirena Ristorante 27 Ocean Ave. N. 732.222.1119 sirenaristorante.com Tuzzio’s 224 Westwood Ave. 732.222.9614 tuzzios.com 21A ON BROADWAY, LONG BRANCH

*Editor’s note—Patrons are encouraged to confirm individual restaurant hours as well as policies regarding reservations and curbside service.

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Molinari’s 312 W. Sylvania Ave. 732.775.7733 molinarirestaurant.com

Photos courtesy of 21A On Broadway, JBJ Sooul Kitchen

EATONTOWN All Seasons Restaurant 176 Wyckoff Rd. 732.542.9462 allseasonsrestaurant.net

DECEMBER 2023/JANUARY 2024

11/17/23 4:14 PM

RED BANK Birravino 183 Riverside Ave. 732.842.5990 birravino.com B2 Bistro + Bar 141 Shrewsbury Ave. 732.268.8555 b2bistro.com Catch 19 19 Broad St. 732.268.8543 catch19redbank.com Char Steakhouse 33 Broad St. 732.450.2427 charsteakhouse.com Danny’s 11 Bridge Ave. 732.741.6900 dannyssteakhouse.com JBJ Soul Kitchen 207 Monmouth St. 732.842.0900 jbjsoulkitchen.com Juanito’s Restaurant 159 Monmouth St. 732.747.9118 juanitosredbank.com Kitch Organic 75 Leighton Ave. 732.471.5400 kitchorganic.com

Photos courtesy of 21A On Broadway, JBJ Sooul Kitchen

Molly Pitcher Inn 88 Riverside Ave. 732.747.2500 themollypitcher.com Muang Thai Restaurant 7 E. Front St. 732.741.9999 muangthairedbank.com Nicholas Barrel & Roost 160 Rte. 35 S. 732.345.9977 barrelandroost.com

Patrizia’s 28 Broad St. 732.741.5555 patrizias.com Pazzo MMX 141 W. Front St. 732.747.4551 pazzoredbank.com Teak 64 Monmouth St. 732.747.5775 teakrestaurant.com Via 45 45 Broad St. 732.450.9945 via45.com RUMSON Barnacle Bill’s 1 First St. 732.747.8396 barnaclebills rumson.com Giorgia 102 Ave. of Two Rivers 732.741.3880 ristorantegiorgia.com Salt Creek Grille 4 Bingham Ave. 732.933.9272 saltcreekgrille.com Surf 132 E. River Rd. 732.530.6590 surfbbq.com Undici 11 W. River Rd. 732.842.3880 undicirestaurant.com

JBJ SOUL KITCHEN, RED BANK Tommy’s Tavern + Tap 1030 Ocean Ave. 732.842.5044 tommystavernandtap.com

SEA BRIGHT Anjelica’s 1070 Ocean Ave. 732.842.2800 anjelicas.com

SEA GIRT Fratello’s 810 The Plaza 732.974.8833 fratellosnj.com

Eventide Grille 1400 Ocean Ave. N. 732.530.1414 eventidegrille.com The Rum Runner 816 Ocean Ave. 732.842.2894 mcloonesrumrunner.com

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D’jeet 637 Broad St. 732.224.8887 djeetcatering.com SPRING LAKE Arugula 306 Morris Ave. 732.974.2800 arugulaspringlakenj.com

SHREWSBURY Americana Diner 1160 Rte. 35 S. 732.542.1658 americanadiner.net

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Bayroot 555 Shrewsbury Ave. 732.747.3444 bayrootmarket.com

Bareli’s By The Sea 1505 Ocean Ave. N. 732.769.5700 barelisbythesea.com

Spring Lake Tap House 810 Rte. 71 732.282.1530 springlaketaphouse.com

WALL Meemom’s 1825 Rte. 35 732.359.8544 meemoms.com

St. Stephen’s Green Publick House 2031 Rte. 71 732.449.2626 ssgpub.com

Mossuto’s Market & Cafe 2029 Rte. 35 S. 732.449.8058 mossutosmarket.com

Whispers 200 Monmouth Ave. 732.974.9755 whispersrestaurant.com

Shogun Legends 1969 Rte. 34 732.449.6696 shogunlegends.com

DECEMBER 2023/JANUARY 2024

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING

WOMEN TO WATCH Monmouth County is home to some of the most innovative and successful businesses in the country. Many are owned and led by women.

W OM E N TO WATCH

On the following pages, learn more about them and how they plan to be difference-makers in the year ahead.

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 flourished for over twenty years. “The bottom line,” she says, “is that I’m a hard worker dedicated to doing the best job for my clients.” In 2022, she ranked in the top 1% for sales volume in New Jersey and earned a spot on Real Trends’ America’s Best Real Estate Professionals list. Bernadette insists that the secret to her success as a four-time top producer at Heritage House Sotheby’s International Realty and an eleven-time Platinum NJ Realtors Circle of Excellence Sales Award winner are the relationships she develops as a hardworking advocate for her clients’ best interests.

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W OM E N TO WATC H

Sylvia L. Breitowich, Esq. 1704 Maxwell Drive, #206, Wall, NJ 07719 | 848.220.9373 | www.breitowichlawfirm.com Attorney Sylvia L. Breitowich began her journey into law with the goal of a criminal defense practice. But after an internship introduced her to the unique complexities of matrimonial and family law, she took a leap of faith to embrace this new path. Sylvia practices with purpose and tenacity, offering anyone coming through the doors the devoted service and legal expertise they deserve when facing difficult family decisions. Working as a parenting coordinator for families, Sylvia sees firsthand the hardships litigation can create in family dynamics and the potential for children to experience trauma. Sylvia is a Collaboratively Trained lawyer, and as a parent herself, she guides clients toward family mediation to eliminate unnecessary chaos and to secure a swift, amicable, but equitable resolution without litigation. Particularly now with the backlog of cases in our court system, Sylvia strongly advocates for alternative dispute resolutions and devises creative ways to protect her clients from the emotional and financial strain of delayed outcomes. Sylvia’s greatest reward is providing clients with the tools to find their better future.

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Ashley Azizian, DDS Anthony Sallustio, DDS 1300 Allenhurst Ave., Ocean, NJ 07712 | 732.531.4046 | www.drasallustio.com After earning her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Columbia University, Dr. Ashley Azizian completed an advanced program in prosthodontics at Manhattan VA. Through specialized training working with veterans suffering from PTSD, Dr. Azizian is highly skilled in treating patients with anxiety. Working alongside Dr. Anthony Sallustio, focusing on prosthetic and cosmetic dental procedures, brings great pride to Dr. Azizian. The complex cases referred to the practice allow her the opportunity to use her training, advances in technology, and keen eye for detail to achieve aesthetic excellence. Similar to Dr. Sallustio, she specializes in dental implants, crown and bridge and ceramic veneers and provides same day All-on-4 treatment. Dr. Azizian’s greatest satisfaction is in restoring form and function while maintaining esthetics, thus developing self-confidence in her patients. Dr. Azizian and Dr. Sallustio look forward to opening a second location for their practice in Madison, NJ in the spring of 2024.

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Doreen DeMarco Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, REALTORS O: 732.946.3200 C: 732.241.5015 | www.doreendemarco.com | doreen.demarco@foxroach.com The last few years have been nothing short of unpredictable; and the housing market is no exception. Real estate dynamo, Doreen DeMarco embodies the knowledge and skills required to tackle the volatile landscape. As a resident of Holmdel, New Jersey, Doreen proudly serves the Monmouth and Ocean County population. Her expertise, in conjunction with her personable and sincere approach, makes her a real estate rockstar who continues to stand out from other real estate professionals. For over a decade, she has not only been committed to the highest standard of customer service, but remains on top of the circumstances, technologies, and challenges affecting the industry regularly. Whether a client is buying or selling, Doreen DeMarco’s dedication to the facts, and ability to provide strategic insights will ensure clients are making the decision that best fits their needs.

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Diane Ryan, P.T. Karen Cohen, P.T. Rosemary Carvajal, P.T. Monmouth Schroth Scoliosis Physical Therapy, LLC. 77-55 Schanck Road, Suite B7, Freehold, NJ 07728 | 732.538.7008 Monmouth Schroth Scoliosis Physical Therapy, LLC in Freehold, New Jersey, is the only physical therapy practice in Monmouth County specializing in treating scoliosis and kyphosis in children and adults. Physical therapists Diane Ryan, Karen Cohen, and Rosemary Carvajal are certified in the methods of BSPTS (Barcelona Scoliosis Physical Therapy School) and SEAS (Scientific Exercise Approach to Scoliosis) for scoliosis correction. We are the only practice in New Jersey to use a Spine 3D LiDar infrared camera to monitor curvatures. This unique technology allows our therapists to choose exercises for each patients’ curve pattern and can follow scoliosis progression without the radiation of repeated X-rays. It’s appropriate for children and adults with curves greater than 10 degrees, in conjunction with bracing, as well as before and after surgery. The hour-long sessions teach patients their home exercises and equip them with the necessary strategies to improve their posture throughout the day. To learn more about who we are, what we do, and how we can help, contact us today.

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Kayla Zsilavetz waKs. 700 Main St., Avon by the Sea, NJ 07717 | 848.233.4973 | www.waksbykayla.com “I always felt like the beauty industry could be tough and not as inclusive and welcoming as it should be,” says waKs owner, Kayla Zsilavetz. After working for several studios, the cosmetologist left the corporate world in pursuit of a more personalized and unique client experience. When Kayla’s private studio doors opened in November 2019, it was a dream realized. With more than a decade of beauty industry experience, extraordinary professionalism, and a compassionate client-oriented approach, she was determined to make waKs not just a wax studio, but a self-care oasis where every client knew they mattered. At waKs, Kayla and her small but mighty team of professionals work tirelessly to ensure impeccable service in a fun, comfortable and relaxing atmosphere. “I am a firm believer that any beauty service should always be about the client,” says Kayla. “I want everyone to feel like a complete rockstar when they leave.” Kayla also created a personal wax line, “Super Wax,” a virtually painless, cruelty free formula made with the highest quality ingredients that work with all skin types. Kayla and her team can’t wait to meet you. Make an appointment with any of them today to experience waKs for yourself.

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Suzanne Veninata, Salesperson Douglas Elliman Real Estate 803 River Road, Fair Haven NJ 07704 O: 732.387.3807 | C: 646.279.2373 Suzanne.Veninata@elliman.com www.suzanneveninata.elliman.com With two decades in real estate and related industries, Suzanne played a pivotal role in the opening of Douglas Elliman Real Estate in Fair Haven. She’s not only a top agent, but also leads a skilled team covering Monmouth County. Suzanne is the trusted expert for real estate in the area, known for her dedication to clients and her community, market insight, and personalized approach. From staging to strategic marketing, Suzanne and her team offer unparalleled services, making her the go-to professional for exceptional real estate experiences and all things lifestyle on the Peninsula. She’ll be “with you every step of the way…”

Roxanne Grise, Family Wealth Director, Global Sports and

Entertainment Director, Vice President, Financial Advisor, Financial Planning Specialist The Dotzler Parisi Group at Morgan Stanley

150 John F Kennedy Parkway, 2nd Floor, Short Hills, NJ 07078 | 908.518.5437 (Direct) 800.526.4931 (Toll-free) | roxanne.grise@morganstanley.com (E-mail) Although Roxanne’s first exposure to the world of finance began at age eight when her father, a Wall Street executive, introduced her to stock tickers, it was hard work, drive and tenacity that propelled her career trajectory and prompted the long list of prestigious titles that now come after her name. After receiving her MBA, Roxanne joined Morgan Stanley’s training program in 2001 and credits her mentor and first business partner, a super bowl champion, for her foray into the world of sports and entertainment. Armed with the experience and knack for meeting the challenges, demands and complicated planning needs of high profile individuals, Roxanne developed a niche clientele of major athletes, high-net-worth individuals and privately held business owners, earning her the coveted designations of Global Sports and Entertainment Director and Family Wealth Director, a title that only 4% (as of 01/22) of Family Wealth Directors of all Morgan Stanley’s financial advisors hold This year, Roxanne along with her two partners and team of eight have been named a “Best-in-State Wealth Management Team” by Forbes Magazine and manage over $1 billion in assets as of June 2023. Roxanne also proudly sits on the Finance Committee at St. Leo the Great Parish in Lincroft, NJ and volunteers her time at the school. Source: Forbes.com (Jan 2023) 2023 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams ranking awarded in 2023. This ranking was determined based on an evaluation process conducted by SHOOK Research LLC (the research company) in partnership with Forbes (the publisher) during the period from 3/31/21 – 3/31/22. Neither Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors paid a fee to SHOOK Research LLC for placement on its rankings. This ranking is based on in-person and telephone due diligence meetings to evaluate each advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations, and quantitative criteria, including assets under management and revenue generated for their firms Investment performance is not a criterion. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research LLC and this ranking may not be representative of any one client’s experience; investors must carefully choose the right Financial Advisor or team for their own situation and perform their own due diligence. This ranking is not indicative of the Financial Advisor’s future performance. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is not affiliated with SHOOK Research LLC or Forbes. For more information, see www.SHOOKresearch.com. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC 5767301 07/23

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Jayne Camlin, Broker/Sales Associate Compass RE 623 River Rd., Fair Haven, NJ 07704 C: 732.673.9100 | O: 732.936.5248 jayne.camlin@compass.com www.compass.com/agents/jayne-camlin Jayne Camlin is proud to be part of an industry that has served her well over the years by creating a space where women feel heard and empowered. Jayne’s greatest fulfillment goes well beyond making a sale. Her true passion lies in collaborating with buyers to find a home that not only meets their needs but also reflects their lifestyle. For sellers, Jayne’s expertise in real estate marketing and presentation enables her clients to showcase their home in the best possible light, maximizing its appeal to potential buyers to achieve its highest value. Combining her exceptional attention to details, and her extensive resources to all things real estate, Jayne delivers an elevated experience in helping them achieve their real estate goals by assuring confidence and peace of mind.

Michelle Dlugosz, DMD Oakhurst Dental Associates

226 Monmouth Road, Oakhurst, NJ 07755 | 732.776.9559 With almost 30 years in the dental field, Dr. Dlugosz delivers gentle care for the entire family. In 2005, Dr. Dlugosz opened her own practice so that she could personally see every patient and treat them as an extension of her family. She communicates the importance of oral health and how it connects to the rest of the body in both English and Spanish. Dr. Dlugosz recently completed training to be on the NJ State Dental Forensic ID Team and participates in Give Kids A Smile offering free check-ups to underserved elementary school children. Living by her mantra “Be the reason someone smiles today,” her proudest accomplishment is in helping boost patient’s self-esteem through a healthy and bright smile.

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Elizabeth “Betsy” Bergman, Sales Associate, ABR, SRES, Coldwell Banker Realty

Highway 35, Middletown, NJ 07748 O: 732.671.1000 C: 201.417.9665 | Betsy.bergman@cbrealty.com www.betsybergmanhomes.com | FB @BergmanHomes IG @ betsy_bergman_homes | www.simplybwell.com “A home is not just a house,” says Betsy Bergman, “It’s a lifestyle.” Betsy has helped clients find their perfect homes for 16 years. But outside of real estate, Betsy also offers wellness classes and personal coaching. The collaboration of health and home creates a lifestyle tailored to a family’s unique needs. Whether considering a move, a home renovation, or uncovering the importance of self-care, Betsy can help any client make their dreams a reality.

©2023 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

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RESTAURANT REVIEW

I’ve Met My Vindaloo Bringing India’s rich flavors to Freehold, Saffron proves that spicy needn’t mean dicey. Like many others, I settled into a new normal during the pandemic in the way I looked for eateries and ordered food. Which restaurants offer takeout, and do they use uber-convenient food delivery services? And I’ll be honest: I still use this method from time to time. That’s a sin in Monmouth County, where there are seemingly endless great places that not only forgo third-party delivery companies but also provide sterling service for dine-in customers. So when I heard favorable buzz about Saffron Fine Indian Cuisine, a recently opened sit-down restaurant in Freehold, I knew I had to put my smartphone to sleep and make a reservation. A friend and I arrived on a busy Saturday, and we were quickly whisked to a cozy booth with a white linen-covered table. With its exposed brick wall and intricately designed ceiling, the room exuded elegance, something that’s been missing from my dining experiences of late. Our server greeted us warmly, asking us if we needed explanation of the menu items and reminding us that we could alter the level of spiciness for select dishes. On first glance, most of the menu wasn’t unlike other Indian restaurants I’ve tried, and my friend, who’d done two separate stints living in India, thought the same. But I still felt there was something special about Saffron, and I was excited to discover it. I usually start with samosa or chaat, but on this visit I homed in on the ragda patties for an appetizer. Each of the fried potato patties was so satisfyingly crisp—with an abundance of flavor thanks to their shallot, tamarind, date and chutney topping—that I could’ve had two more orders of this app and called it a night. But there was more eating (and enjoying) to do. For instance, my friend asked me to split her starter of choice, Chicken 65. A popular snack food in India, this is made of deep fried, bite-sized chicken that’s been

SAFFRON FINE INDIAN CUISINE 2 E. Main St., Freehold, 732.577.7979; saffronindiancuisinenj.com

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marinated in spices and chilies. Diners who’ve fallen in love with the spicy chicken craze will savor every morsel of this dish, which comes with a generous— but just right—amount of fried chicken. Craving something hearty for my main course, I went with one of my go-tos, lamb vindaloo. This stew-like dish comes with tender lamb cubes and potatoes in a spicy curry sauce. I asked for my order to be fiery, and the cooks did not disappoint; I nearly broke a sweat while tasting every bite of the lamb and sauce— fortunately the accompanying basmati rice provided enough of a break from the heat. Though it was intense, the spiciness didn’t detract from the overall flavor of the vindaloo—that can be a problem with “fiery” or “extra spicy” dishes in some establishments. For her entrée, my friend had the neutral-spiced butter chicken, a “usual suspect” found at many Indian restaurants. Saffron’s version far exceeded the quality found at lunch buffets and casual restaurants, as each piece of tender chicken seemed to melt in the mouth. The rich tomato curry was so good one might be tempted to sip it from the silver bowl—but I suggest pouring it over the basmati rice or sopping up the extra sauce with pieces of naan. (Try the garlic naan!) A meal at an Indian restaurant isn’t complete for me without gulab jamun for dessert. The balls of fried milk pastry are soaked in honey and saffron, creating a sweet (but not overly sweet) profile that’s pleasing to taste buds. Saffron’s is a must-try. Ordering dinners for delivery—pizza, Chinese, sushi or Indian—has its advantages. But Saffron reminded me to break out of that routine and experience great food and service in an elegant setting whenever possible. I’m certain I’ll make dining at Saffron my new normal. —Darius Amos

DECEMBER 2023/JANUARY 2024

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Call Us (732) 493-8080 We Have Solutions Elder Life Management & Home Care Services

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Monmouth Wine & Food Experience

SAVE THE DATE! Thursday, March 28th, 2024 6-9PM THE MOLLY PITCHER INN Red Bank, NJ

PRESENTED BY

For sponsorships and exhibitor space, contact: Thomas Flannery at 201.571.2252 or thomas.flannery@wainscotmedia.com Jodi Bruker at 732.778.4744 or jodi.bruker@wainscotmedia.com

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ON THE TOWN

Be There

From Scrooge and Santa to hoops and home shows— there’s something for everyone this season in Monmouth. THROUGH DEC. 17 It’s never too late to start a new family tradition. Maybe yours can be seeing SCROOGE at Spring Lake Theatre, now in its 41st year? This classic musical is a telling of Charles Dickens’s classic “A Christmas Carol,” and features an incredible score and tons of holiday magic. Buy your tickets for a 2 p.m. matinee or a 7:30 p.m. evening show—seats start at $30 and can be purchased online at springlaketheatre.com. DEC. 10, 17 Kids and adults alike will never forget the experience of having BRUNCH WITH SANTA. Jolly Old St. Nick will be at American Hotel in Freehold on two Sundays in December from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., where he’ll be posing for pics while you and your family enjoy a beautiful brunch spread. Downtownfreehold.com has pricing details and more information. DEC. 15 Enjoy the sounds of the season when music legend Darlene Love brings her “LOVE FOR THE HOLIDAYS” show to Count Basie Center in Red Bank. The Oscar-winning singer will perform all her biggest hits, including her Christmas classic, “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home).” Tickets run from $35 to $129 and can be purchased at thebasie.org. DEC. 20 Teach your kids the art of giving back when The Proving Ground in Highlands hosts KIDS NIGHT WITH SANTA. Bring an unwrapped toy that will be donated to Toys for Tots, then enjoy some pictures with Santa, bingo and arts and crafts. The festivities take place from 5 to 8 p.m.—you must register your family in advance at theprovingground.com or on OpenTable.

DEC. 21 Watch the MONMOUTH UNIVERSITY HAWKS men’s basketball team play the Manhattan College Jaspers in one of the biggest tri-state area games of the season. This home game will be played at their arena in West Long Branch, and begins at 2 p.m. Check out monmouthhawks.com/sports for their entire season schedule. DEC. 31 Does anyone even stay up until midnight on New Year’s anymore? You have an excuse to get home early if you book tickets to see popular New Jersey band SOUTHSIDE JOHNNY AND THE ASBURY JUKES perform at the Hackensack Meridian Health Theater in Red Bank. The “New Year’s Early” show starts at 6 p.m., where these musicians will perform their hits including “I Don’t Want To Go Home,” co-written by a member of The Boss’s E Street Band. Seats are selling for $39 to $99+ at thebasie.org.

JAN. 6 ANDREW DICE CLAY is making a rare stop in New Jersey, and this is one for the books. He’ll be doing a set at Uncle Vinnie’s Comedy Club in Manasquan—just leave the kids at home, because Clay’s comedy style is for mature audiences. VIP tickets for the 8 p.m. show are $99, or you can spend $79 on general admission. Tickets are available at algonquinarts.org.

JAN. 20, 21 Looking to spruce up your place in 2024? Spend a weekend with other designminded folks when the JERSEY SHORE HOME SHOW comes to Brookdale Community College in Lincroft. Here you’ll meet design professionals and partake in hands-on exhibits that’ll give you confidence to start your own DIY. Saturday’s show is from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sunday’s is 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Passes for both days are free! Get them online at njhomeshow-br.com. JAN. 24 The Stone Pony is still kicking in the winter, and the iconic Asbury venue is kicking off the new year right with a show from award-winning rock band DINOSAUR JR. This tour commemorates the 30th birthday of their much-loved fifth album, “Where You Been?” and the show will span their decades of hits. Learn more about the band and find tickets at dinosaurjr.com.

*Editor’s note: All events are subject to cancellations or changes. Attendees are encouraged to confirms dates and times with organizers and venues..

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JAN. 13 Would you jump into the freezing ocean for a cause? Give it a go at the 16TH ANNUAL POLAR BEAR PLUNGE to support the J. Michael Hartnett Memorial at Manasquan Main Beach. Check-in is at 11 a.m., and the plunge is at 12:30 p.m. The event is hosted and sponsored by Leggett’s Sand Bar & Restaurant. You can start your own fundraising page or “support a plunger” at ladacin.org/event.

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Gatherings Monmouth residents always show up to support their friends and neighbors— especially when help is needed most. 1

7 1. NJ SHARING NETWORK NJ Sharing Network recently presented Volunteer Recognition Awards to five residents for their outstanding efforts in supporting its mission. 1 Tom Gano, Divakaran Manimaran, Anika Bhatnagar, Delia Perretta, Dawn Burke

2-3. HABITAT MONMOUTH Volunteers from Hillmann Consulting and Fidelity Investments joined Habitat Monmouth workers at their house project in Middletown. The teams built new stairs, worked on interior framing and installed vents, spindles for the front deck and stairs. 2 Hillmann Consulting volunteers 3 Fidelity Investment volunteers

4. STEPHY’S PLACE Stephy’s Place hosted its annual Mourning Walk at Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park in Long Branch. The mourning walk was created to share that gift of remembrance with others who have suffered the loss of loved ones. 4 Rain couldn’t dampen the spirits of this year’s walk participants.

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5. MONMOUTH MEDICAL CENTER Marie Brackett, a registered nurse with Monmouth Medical Center’s Psychiatric Emergency Screening Services (PESS) unit, was honored with the quarterly DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. 5 Lauren Fleming, Marie Brackett, Darla Harmer

6-7. YMCA MONMOUTH The YMCA held its second annual Prayer Breakfast, bringing together community leaders from all over Monmouth County.

8. BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF MONMOUTH COUNTY The Boys & Girls Clubs held its “A Most Unusual Evening: Dressed to Thrill” gala, honoring the Monmouth Medical Center, the cities of Asbury Park and Long Branch and club alum Ollie Jones. 8 Ollie Jones, Douglas Eagles

NJ Sharing Network (1), Habitat for Humanity (2–3), Stephy’s Place (4), Monmouth Medical Center (5), YMCA of Monmouth County (6–7), Boys & Girls Clubs (8)

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“I walked up to Ocean Grove Pier and saw the sun aligned with the pier. When the biker rode into my shot, I started taking photos. The Jersey Shore is such a beautiful place to live and offers so much to residents and visitors—seascapes, shore towns, historic landmarks, wildlife. I always feel honored to be able to take pictures of the Shore and share its beauty with everyone. It offers a nice distraction from the chaos of the world.” —John Entwistle, Farmingdale

Send us your Monmouth Moment! Email your photo and a short description to rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com.

Monmouth Magazine Volume 21, Issue 6 (ISSN# 2573-8151 and USPS 025-351) is published 12 times a year by Wainscot Media, One Maynard Dr., Park Ridge, NJ 07656. Postmaster: Send address changes to Subscription Department, Wainscot Media, One Maynard Dr., Park Ridge, NJ 07656. Periodicals postage paid at Park Ridge, N.J., and additional mailing offices.

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Photo courtesy of John Entwistle, Instagram @johnentwistle_photography

A MONMOUTH MOMENT

DECEMBER 2023/JANUARY 2024

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CentraState congratulates our physicians who were named “Top Docs” by Monmouth Magazine. This honor reflects the opinions of thousands of doctors across Monmouth County who were asked to vote for peers whom they deem best in their specialties. The entire CentraState team is proud to have each of you on our team. Anesthesiology

Geriatric Medicine

Pain Medicine

John Mak, MD

Rekha Gohel, MD

Breast Surgery

Hand Surgery

John Pellegrino, MD, FACS

Nirav N. Shah, DO

Teddy L. Atik, MD Raymond G. Decker Jr., MD George M. Gabuzda, MD Joseph T. Gower, MD, LTCOL, USAFR Gary M. Pess, MD

Charles B. Daknis, MD Dan-Thuy V. Tran, MD Scott Woska, MD

Dermatology

Hematology and Oncology

Critical Care Medicine and Pulmonary Disease

Irwin Hametz, MD Jason H. Miller, MD David D. Picascia, MD

Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism Melissa Young, MD

Family Medicine Hammad Abdelquader, MD Philip Angello, MD Maria F. Ciminelli, MD FAAFP Alicia Dermer, MD, FABM, IBCLC Marc Feingold, MD Mark Gershenbaum, DO Zeeshan Khan, MD Miah Kim, DO Maryana Tselniker, MD

Bhavesh Balar, MD Aileen L. Chen, MD Gurpreet S. Lamba, MD Jeffrey Silberberg, MD

Internal Medicine Indu Gopal, MD Nancy C. Peters, MD, FAAP Leslie Sojka, MD Jayanthi Talamati, MD

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