Monmouth October/November 2024

Monmouth

HAPPY HOME

ROOM TO GROW PRO TIPS FOR YOUR KID’S SPACE

FAMILY AFFAIR HOLMDEL RENO FOR MULTI GENERATIONS

GOOD MANORS 6 GRAND ESTATES TO TOUR THIS FALL

* ISLAND LIFE IN HOLMDEL

Departments

Monmouth Buzz 12

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

Friends & Neighbors 16

Freehold pharmacy exec and philanthropist Ritesh Shah is taking up the fight against healthcare inequities, one lifesaving prescription at a time.

Escapes 40

Reach one of these stately estates with a short drive— and let your daydreams come alive.

Tastes 42

Peppers are colorful fruits (yes, they’re fruit) that will sweeten any main dish.

Features

The Power Of The Pull 28

It’s a potent, versatile workout tool that doesn’t require an app: the resistance band.

A Room To Grow In 30

Five local designers offer tips on crafting a space that will delight a kid today—and won’t bring embarrassment tomorrow.

The Grandparent Test 34

Ideally situated, a Holmdel colonial had all the basics for three-generation family living—if its interior could be transformed.

Style Watch 20

The vegan option is just as fashionable as the real thing.

Home Front 22

aged look always radiates a vibe that’s both warm and welcoming.

Restaurant Review 56

42 30

Even if the subcontinent’s cuisine is something you try at home, you’ll be wowed by the pros at Arora’s Modern Bistro in Freehold.

Gatherings 62

Monmouth residents always show up to support their neighbors.

A Monmouth Moment 64

The ocean, the sunset and a single crab set up a Middletown photographer for the perfect shot.

IN EVERY ISSUE

6 Editor’s Note

24 Health News

50 Where to Eat 60 Be There

The new kitchen in this Holmdel home designed by Sheila Rich is perfect for the entire family. Photo by Lauren Hagerstrom.

COMING IN DECEMBER

Senior Living

Who’s Your Home For?

At first, a Holmdel couple knew their new home would require a major renovation. Sure, it was on a spacious piece of property with a pool, in a desirable neighborhood and large enough to fit the family’s three generations, but it also was severely outdated to the point where the homeowners called it “madness.”

Still, the couple was positive. And they had a secret weapon: the practical and aesthetic vision of interior designer Sheila Rich. Judge for yourself (page 34) whether Rich succeeded in fulfilling her clients’ elegant and timeless mandate while also meeting the requirements of housing the couple, their two children and the kids’ grandparents under one roof.

You see, I’m introducing this Home Issue by mentioning a home-design feature article that we hope will inspire you. But I’m also making a point. We all want our homes to make visitors feel comfortable, welcome—and maybe a little impressed. Yet visitors don’t call the shots. The Holmdel couple might not have the décor you adore, and that’s OK. Your goal, like theirs, should be not primarily to meet some official design standard, but first and foremost to create an environment you and your family will enjoy for years. Your home’s for you.

There’s one caveat, of course. For a part of your home—your child’s bedroom— the ultimate consumer isn’t you, but your child. Kids’ tastes should, naturally, be considered for their rooms. But children are changeable—the girl who insists on a pink Barbie motif at 6 may at 9 declare that she can no longer stand the sight of Barbie and demand a horsy theme instead. If only design experts would chime in on this challenge! (Five of them do—on page 30.)

Perhaps you don’t have an enormous, majestic mansion to keep up. But check one out to fuel your fantasies of a gracious bygone era! As ideal homes they’re far-fetched, but not far. Visit one (page 40) and you’ll be home in time to freshly appreciate your own less grandiose castle by nightfall.

Some grand and historic castles might seem spooky when the sun goes down, making them ideal settings for ghost stories and tall tales. Other scary spots? Turn to Buzz on page 12 to read about four spots for fun fall frights. This time of year isn’t all about scares, it’s also about get-togethers and good times. On page 13, our expert dishes out advice on how to assemble the perfect charcuterie board for your next special occasion at-home.

There’s much more, as well, in MONMOUTH’s autumn harvest of ideas and info. Enjoy!

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

Monmouth

Editor in Chief RITA GUARNA

Creative Director

STEPHEN M. VITARBO

Senior Associate Editor DARIUS AMOS

Assistant Editor KIRSTEN MEEHAN

Contributing Editors PAUL RANCE JR. DONNA ROLANDO

Contributing Photographer LAUREN HAGERSTROM

PRODUCTION

Production Manager FERN E. MESHULAM

Production Artist CHRIS FERRANTE

SOCIAL  Join our online community!

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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 Magazine (Volume 22 Issue 5 Oct/Nov 2024) (USPS#XXXXXX) is published bimonthly (Feb/Mar, April/May, June/July, Sept, Oct/Nov, Dec/Jan) by Wainscot Media, One Maynard Dr., Ste 2104, Park Ridge, NJ 07656. Periodicals postage pending at Mahwah, NJ, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Wainscot Media, One Maynard Dr., Ste 2104, Park Ridge, NJ 07656. Copyright© 2024 by Wainscot Media, LLC. All rights reserved.

A Champion for Rare Disease Research

Announces New Partnership with Every.org to Facilitate Cryptocurrency Donations Collaborates with GivingTuesday, a global charity movement, falling on December 3rd, 2024

Very little is known about the biology of rare diseases, which is what makes them especially challenging. Most of them are genetic and most are chronically debilitating, progressive, and life-threatening, with no know treatments or cure. Collectively they are not specifically “rare” given that:

• 30 million people in the US – about 1 in 10 – suffer from a rare disease.

• There are 7,000 rare and ultra-rare diseases in the United States alone.

• Half of the sufferers are children and 30 percent of them will lose their battle before they are 5 years old due to the lack of available treatments.

Be a Tiger Foundation humbly strives to achieve an immediate impact in the rare disease space. We are a local Monmouth County nonprofit 501(c)(3) charity organization, and through your generous donations, we directly fund and support clinical research aimed to treat and cure Wolfram Syndrome, and other rare diseases.

Recently, Be a Tiger Foundation was excited to announce the successful transaction of its first ever donation in the form of cryptocurrency. Long-time friend of the founders and successful financial executive, Patrick Kearns, donated one Bitcoin [BTC] via Every.org on May 29th, 2024. At the time of the donation, Bitcoin was valued at $68,375.22 USD. Donating cryptocurrency is a wonderful way to support our charity, and it simultaneously provides the donor with favorable tax incentives.

GivingTuesday is a global charity movement unleashing the power of radical generosity. It was created in 2012 as an international day of charitable giving, falling on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. Since then, it has grown into a global movement that inspires hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity. This year GivingTuesday falls on December 3rd .

We humbly ask you to take a moment as you prepare for the holiday season of giving to visit our website www.BeATigerFoundation.org to learn more about our foundation, and share with your family and friends. Thank you!

With gratitude and hope, Lauren Liberatore Co-Founder and COO beatigerfoundation@gmail.com

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PUBLISHED BY WAINSCOT MEDIA

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Antonio’s doctor told him, “Together, we’re going to do everything possible to help you.” And she meant it. Thanks to MSK’s expertise in exploring immunotherapies with fewer side effects, he was able to have a better recovery, so he could keep doing what he loves with the people he loves.

Go to MSK.org/NewJerseyCare or call 844-844-1929 to reach a cancer expert today.

Monmouth Buzz

WHO YOU GONNA CALL?

Are you up for a fun fall fright? Check out these spots (if you dare!) around Monmouth where, according to local folklore, the ghosts are far more than bedsheets:

Seabrook-Wilson House, Port Monmouth. Built in 1720, this historic landmark is also sometimes known as “the Spy House”—local legend says the house was a popular tavern for British soldiers during the American Revolution, and the rebels listened to their conversations as they drank. Today, the location serves as the Bayshore Waterfront Park Activity Center, includes a museum and is open on weekends (hours vary—check online!). Some believe the soldiers’ spirits wander the halls as well.

• 719 Port Monmouth Rd., Port Monmouth; monmouthcountyparks.com

The Historic Village at Allaire, Farmingdale. This long-ago factory town has been converted to an educational site where you can explore interactive exhibits and experience history through hands-on activities. But stories of mysteriously flickering candles also persist from volunteers, and it isn’t hard to find tales of the apparition of Hal Allaire, son of the town’s founder, particularly in the “Big House.”

• 4265 Atlantic Ave., Farmingdale, 732.919.3500; allairevillage.org Strauss Mansion, Atlantic Highlands. This mansion, built in 1893, now houses the headquarters and museum of the Atlantic Highlands Historical Society. New Jersey Paranormal Investigations looked into the building in 2022 and declared it a “hotspot,” and there have been reports of books moving on their own, piano keys playing themselves and voices caught on video. (Ghost tours continue to be held on occasion.) The Historical Society has events throughout the year, and the museum is open Sundays. On Oct. 18 and 19, Bayville paranormal investigation group ParaSight Experience holds a nighttime investigation of the mansion—see eventbrite.com for more information.

• 27 Prospect Circle, Atlantic Highlands, 732.291.1861; ahhistory.org Paranormal Books & Curiosities, Asbury Park. Seeking ghost stories and reports of strange local experiences? This Asbury Park bookstore is also a paranormal museum that offers ghost walking tours throughout the city, special events and classes during the year—and an occasional séance. The museum includes an exhibit dedicated to haunted dolls.

• 621 Cookman Ave., Asbury Park, 732-455-3188; paranormalbooksnj.com

CELEBRATING FEMALES IN FILM

It’s a bold move to name an event after the rallying cry of the American women’s suffrage movement, but the Bread & Roses Film Festival strives to justify ambition. A film festival dedicated to elevating women’s voices in industry, it’s led by an all-female team, judged by an all-female panel, takes place at the women-owned ShowRoom Cinema in Asbury Park and showcases the filmmaking talent of women from all over the world.

Now in its second year, the program continues its mission of “supporting, elevating and celebrating the brilliant and talented women making magic behind the camera.” The 2024 festival takes place Oct. 18–20. For tickets, more information and a full lineup of this year’s films, visit breadrosesfilm.org.

PUPPY LOVE

Dog: Buster, an 8½-year-old chihuahua mix

Owner: Casey Rodewald of Asbury Park

Though Buster was originally rescued from Puerto Rico by his roommate, Rodewald found himself taking on more responsibility for the pup’s care as that roommate struggled with her health. “Eventually, she was no longer able to care for Buster, so she gave me full ownership,” Rodewald explains.

Buster loves to run—and he’s a quick one! Once he caught a live possum in his mouth and couldn’t wait to show it off. “I made him drop it and cleaned his mouth, and the possum was gone when we came back,” he explains, “because it was just ‘playing possum.’” Buster also is “obsessed” with the beach, and owner and dog take every opportunity to go together. Other frequent outdoor spots are Joe Palaia Park in Oakhurst and Shark River Park in Wall Township.

What doesn’t Buster like? Loud noises, says Rodewald, who believes the fear stems from the pup’s plane trip to the U.S. mainland. To deal with noise, Buster gently nibbles on his plush chew toys rather than chewing them to pieces. He has also recently learned through a dog-DNA website that he has a brother. Says Rodewald: “They are going to meet soon.” We hope it’s a happy reunion!

Do you want to see your pet in an upcoming issue? Email his or her photo and brief details to Editor Rita Guarna at rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com.

CULINARY CORNER

Whether you’re craving a totally new taste or a unique twist on an old favorite, Monmouth’s ever-expanding restaurant options can accommodate. Try these recently opened spots:

Subcontinental

For authentic Indian cuisine, check out Agra Indian Masala in Red Bank for an extensive menu of traditional and modern dishes. Try chicken tikka masala or aloo samosa (fried dough filled with potatoes, peas and spices). Vegetarian? The restaurant has numerous choices for a plant-based meal.

• Agra Indian Masala, 30 Monmouth St., Red Bank, 732.533.0118; agraindianmasala.com

Shoreline delights

Recently opened in Highlands just a stone’s throw from the ocean is the aptly named Saltwater Social. If you’re looking for a great mix of innovative apps (shrimp tempura with smoked chili aioli, for one) and Shore classics (steaks, burgers and clam chowder), this is a spot well worth a stop—particularly when you consider its extensive list of beers, wines and craft cocktails.

• Saltwater Social, 128 Bay Ave., Highlands, 732.444.2055; saltwatersocialnj.com

Keeping it kosher

Just steps from the beach at Long Branch’s Pier Village is Pepe Kitchen, a new kosher Italian restaurant with all your favorite flavors. Pick up some garlic cheese breadsticks, eggplant rollatini, roasted cauliflower, salads and, of course, plenty of pizza options. The restaurant is certified kosher by the Jersey Shore Orthodox Rabbinate (JSOR).

• Pepe Kitchen, 15 Morris Ave., Unit 110, Long Branch, 732.955.7373; pepekosher.com

KUDOS TO…

Three Monmouth restaurants, all recently visited by Food Network host Guy Fieri and featured on the hit show Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives Cavé Bistro in Avonby-the-Sea, seen on the episode “Fistful of Flavor,” is described on its website as “farm-totable and 100-percent gluten free” and is run by executive chef Doug Stehle. Seed to Sprout in Avon-by-the-Sea, featured on the episode “Grand Slam Sammy,” prides itself on food that’s completely vegan and preservative free (it’s a Monmouth Readers’ Choice winner—we always knew Fieri had good taste!) Skratch Kitchen in Bradley Beach, shown in the episode “All Over the Plate,” has made a name for itself with its comfort food and rustic flavors. These episodes originally aired in August and September and are now available to watch on YouTube.

A CHARCUTERIE POTPOURRI

We are entering the peak season of entertaining, and at the center of every good get-together is good food—and a great grazing board. Charcuterie is the star of any appetizer spread, and it’s an easy way to impress your guests—it’s part decoration, part meal and all delicious.

Want to up your grazing-plate game? MONMOUTH spoke with Meredith Hyland of Fourchette Red Bank for advice:

“Now that summer is done, and we’ve had our fill of luscious burrata with tomatoes, I’d leave the fresh cheeses off a fall cheese charcuterie platter,” Hyland says. “Instead, focus on deeply flavored cheeses that pair with red wines and buttery chardonnays. You still should be able to find some fresh figs and persimmons in the market to decorate the platter with autumn hues, or substitute small Champagne grapes. This year, we’re using the enormous leaves from our fig trees as doilies on our cheese boards. As these fade for autumn, you can use any kind of large leaves from the trees around you, even better as they turn to yellow and orange—just make sure to wash them well before adding them to your board.”

So, which cheese to choose? “A good cheese board will include a variety of cheeses that represent different styles, milks or regions,” Hyland notes. “For different styles, you want to choose a soft-ripened or bloomy-rind cheese such as a brie or triple crème; a washed-rind cheese that’ll bring some funkiness, such as Camembert au Calvados or Stinking Bishop; a semi-hard cheese like Comté or Tomme de Basque; and a hard cheese such as aged parmigiano or aged Gouda.

“We always recommend five or so cheeses so as not to overwhelm guests with too many choices. There is always room for fresh herb stalks, local honey, distinctive nuts like marcona almonds and interesting jams and confits. If savory is more your speed, include nated olives or French cornichons, especially if you’re offering

RIDE FOR YOUR HEALTH

A doctor’s visit is stressful enough transportation to and from the office. County can alleviate some of those ing a free ride for a medical visit for needs one. All residents, regardless may schedule two free round-trip to address their medical, wellness appointments—including grocery-store therapy visits. All you need is your

To schedule a ride, you also need older, but children may participate accompanied by an adult and have child seat if necessary. Rides are offered in collaboration with EZ Ride and available Monday through Saturday. For more info or to schedule a call 732.431.7448 or email MCTransportCoordinator@ co.monmouth.nj.us.

The Silver Tsunami

WELCOME

to the latest edition of Fiscal Fitness! It’s local’s summer at the Jersey Shore and the weather couldn’t be better. Blue skies, no humidity and quiet beaches. But we all know a nor’easter is brewing right around the corner along with a Silver Tsunami.

On average, more than 11,000 Americans will turn sixty-five every day this year with 10,000 boomers retiring every day.1

No wonder pickleball has taken off! The biggest wave of wealth in history is about to pass to the next generation over the next twenty years, having a major impact on many facets of life. It is also predicted to triple the $10 trillion in household assets U.S. women now control to about $30 trillion by 2030.

GRAY DIVORCE

is also skyrocketing among boomers, with the most significant increase among people 65 and older.2 Whatever the reason, a growing number of adults will be aging alone. Unfortunately, more women than not fare worse financially after parting ways. A few contributing factors: lower incomes during working years, gaps in employment to care for children or aging parents, a lower savings rate, and higher long-term medical costs. It’s no wonder some women feel unsure and anxious about the prospects for a financially secure retirement.

SOCIAL SECURITY

The decision on when to tap into benefits can be complicated, especially if you are divorced. Many women apply for benefits before FRA (full retirement age) without fully

understanding the long-term financial implications. Did you know you are eligible for a spousal benefit based on the earnings record of your ex-spouse, even if he/she has remarried or passed away? Basic rules must be met so meet with a qualified advisor before making any decisions.

IS YOUR UMBRELLA BIG ENOUGH?

Insurance gaps pose risks for many highnet worth households. According to the US Census Bureau, the average age of a woman becoming a widow is 59.4 years old. 4 in 10 women are the primary earners in their families, yet only 48% of women have life insurance3 For the average healthy 65-year old couple, there’s a 75% chance that one partner will require long-term care. Have you considered how to pay for that?

ESTATE PLAN

You have worked hard to accumulate your wealth, why leave it to chance? If you are recently divorced, widowed or remarried, be sure to review your beneficiary designations and work with an estate planning attorney to ensure your legacy reaches your intended heirs.

By planning carefully, investing wisely, and spending sensibly, you can increase the likelihood that your retirement will be financially comfortable for years to come. Now is the time to collaborate with an experienced and qualified Certified Financial Plannerr™ professionl who can help put the pieces of the puzzle together.

Debra Fournier

CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™

Certified Divorce Financial Analyst™

About THE AUTHOR

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

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

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

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

2006 Highway 71, Suite 1 Spring Lake, NJ 07762 732-800-8400 | 732-800-0622 fax seaviewwealth.com

FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS

Medicine Man

Freehold pharmacy executive and tireless philanthropist Ritesh Shah is personally taking up the fight against healthcare inequities, one lifesaving prescription at a time.

Ritesh Shah is the first to tell you that he has been lucky. He has owned community drug stores since 2002, and in 2019 became the CEO and managing partner of Legacy Pharmacy Group, which manages more than 500 pharmacies. And he says Monmouth County “made me who I am today.”

Now 52, the pharmacist-executive was born and raised in India and immigrated to the United States—and Freehold—in the 1990s. He and his wife Asha (also a pharmacist) raised two children to adulthood there. His son is a doctor currently doing his residency as a radiation oncologist, and his daughter is in law school. During the pandemic, Shah organized his staffers to administer COVID-19 tests at first-responder stations and schools—he administered so many, in fact, that Governor Phil Murphy thanked him for it.

Then, in October 2021, Shah’s sister, who was back home in India, passed away from COVID-19 complications. It was a turning point—Shah knew he had to do more. In 2022, he opened the Ritesh Shah Charitable Pharmacy in Red Bank. Its mission? To provide qualifying patients with lifesaving medications completely free of charge.

Tell us about your pharmacy.

to provide access to medications, education and services to reduce the healthcare disparities. How does the pharmacy work?

In 2022 I decided to go to India to meet my baby sister, Rena. We were going to celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights, with her. God had a different plan. COVID was surging, and she contracted the virus. We landed, and I was only about 20 minutes away from the hospital, but she couldn’t wait for us. She had underlying conditions like diabetes. Covid took her. We didn’t know what to do.

My wife and I realized we wanted to do something to honor her soul. My sister always used to tease me—“Hey, you’re a big CEO at a company. Why is healthcare not affordable in the United States? Why are medications so expensive?” So that seemed like the best way to honor her. We want

We have a closed formulary of 300 lifesaving medications. People who live below 300 percent of the federal poverty line can use our service. Let’s say they have $10, and they need to decide if that money is going to buy food or medication. I want them to save that $10 for food; we’ll take care of the medication. What obstacles did you face in establishing the pharmacy?

Well, it’s healthcare, right? It’s a pharmacy. There’s a lot of paperwork. We are the first of our kind in the state, and the New Jersey Board of Pharmacy doesn’t even have a classification of charitable pharmacy— we’re actually still listed as a retail pharmacy. I reached out to the Charitable Pharmacies of America for guidance.

How about day-to-day challenges?

Finding healthcare volunteers. Particularly bilingual ones, as we work with Hispanic and Latino populations. We want all funds to go toward medications, so for every dollar we receive, 85 to 90 cents is being used for that—our administrative costs are low. Another challenge is making sure the people who need the pharmacy can find us and access us.

Do you get to see your impact? Yes. It’s always a beautiful thing. There was one young woman who worked in a restaurant. She made just a little bit over the Medicaid limit, but she didn’t have the money for insurance. She was also pregnant and diabetic. We were able to supply her insulin. She had a healthy baby—and came in to show us pictures. Can the local community help? Absolutely. People can go on our website and donate. Any amount of money helps the mission. They can also donate their time. As I said, we are particularly looking for bilingual volunteers. We have a form on our website for that too.

What’s it like working with your wife?

Asha had actually retired after 25 years as a pharmacist, but she picked up her white coat again for this. She offers her services with no pay almost every day, for this mission and in honor of my baby sister. She does so much behind the scenes as well.

Your favorite place in Monmouth?

I’m such a foodie. I love Federici’s Family Restaurant in Freehold, and Mauka Indian Restaurant in Eatontown. I also always find the seaside by Spring Lake and Belmar soothing. Got a message for our readers?

If you know anyone who is suffering, in between insurance plans and in need of something like insulin, diabetes medication or heart medication, please direct them to us. We want to take care of them.

—Kirsten Meehan

Photo courtesy of Ritesh Shah Charitable Pharmacy

Where Exceptional Care Meets Exceptional Results.

You deserve respect. You deserve honesty. You deserve to be treated the way you want to be treated.

At Allure Plastic Surgery Center, I am committed to creating a culture that reflects my core values of compassion and service to others. We uphold ethical standards that recognize the inherent worth and inner beauty of all our patients and staff. We understand that outer appearance can sometimes impact the confidence hiding within you. Allow us to help you reveal your inner beauty in a respectful and honest manner.

I am passionate about surgery and grateful for the gift to perform it. If surgery is not the best option for you, I will be transparent and let you know. Sometimes the answer “no” is in your best interest! At Allure Plastic Surgery Center, we offer a comprehensive range of services to enhance your confidence: skincare and aesthetic treatments, non-surgical rejuvenation with injectables and medical devices, massage therapy, and surgical procedures in our licensed surgery center – all under one roof.

Trust us with your important decision for the next step. You deserve it. Warmly, Dr. Taylor.

How to Transform Your Home with Windows and Doors

It’s a given that windows and doors serve an essential function in your home—they keep you safe and can also be energy efficient. When you focus on design, your front door and exterior windows can dramatically improve the aesthetics of your home for years to come.

We spoke to Antonio Aiello, Principal at New Jerseybased Devin Aiello Architects, to understand how windows and doors can transform your home.

Brighten Your Mood with Larger Windows

One of the biggest trends Aiello sees in windows is creating larger openings. “Larger windows are having a moment right now,” he shares. “Creating larger window openings is always a huge improvement for homes. We’re seeing a lot of floor-to-ceiling windows being used right now, as well as homeowners choosing to make their existing window openings bigger.”

Make a Powerful First Impression with Opaque Glass

When it comes to doors, Aiello recommends a door with opaque glass. “Opaque glass adds an element of style making your entrance unique,” explains Aiello. Opaque glazing on a front door has three benefits, Aiello goes on to explain. “It still allows light in but provides security and privacy and it’s a stunning look overall.”

Incorporate Color into Your Windows

Color plays an important role in the visual appeal of a home’s exterior. And the same holds true for your windows and doors. “The color and style of your windows and doors makes a huge difference. It can change the entire look of the whole home,” explains Aiello.

Whether you stick to a neutral palette or choose a bold shade, don’t shy away from adding some excitement to your home with

colored windows. Ultimately, windows can contribute to a cohesive, well-designed exterior and enhance curb-appeal.

Consider the Window System

“Depending on the look you’re going for, windows are an accent that can have a dramatic impact on your home. Whether you want a more traditional or more modern look, windows can make that happen very easily,” says Aiello.

Aiello notes a shift over the past few years regarding which window system is most popular. “It used to be more casement windows, but I’m seeing double- and singlehung window systems more and more at the moment.”

Go Modern

When asked which front door style is making its way into more homes, Aiello says homeowners choose to go modern. “One of the most popular doors is a modern door with opaque glass and thin horizontal lines that repeat going up and down the door. This is the most trending look right now.” Natural materials like wood, as well as doors with glass elements are both great ways to bring a modern touch to your front door.

Whether installing floor-to-ceiling windows or adding a front door with opaque glass, updating and upgrading your windows and doors can transform your home.

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

Over the last 30 years, we have transformed over 6,000 homes with siding, roofing, windows, and doors and have earned hundreds of 5-star reviews. We offer $0 down financing and industryleading lifetime material and labor warranties.

Patrycja Maras Owner B&B Siding and Roofing

Good Weather

Sparvena

HEALTH

PROTEIN AT BREAKFAST

Folks who eat a breakfast consisting of 40 percent protein had fewer food cravings throughout the day than those people who consume only 15 percent protein or skip breakfast.

—Nutrition Journal

OVERDOSES AMONG SENIORS

The rate of fatal drug overdoses among adults 65 and older has quadrupled over the past 20 years, with more than half of those deaths involving an opioid.

—JAMA Psychiatry

MASKS CUT RISK OF RESPIRATORY WOES

Wearing a face mask in public reduces the risk of self-reported respiratory symptoms, finds a trial of adults in Norway. The effect was moderate—a 3.2% reduction in symptoms, equal to around 3,300 fewer infections per 100,000 people—but researchers say the results support the claim that face masks may be an effective way to reduce the rate of symptoms consistent with respiratory tract infections.

SUGAR’S EFFECT NOT SO SWEET

A review of more the 8,600 research papers found 45 negative effects from sugar, including increased risk of several cancers, asthma and depression.

—The BMJ

WEIGHT-LOSS DRUGS AND KIDNEY DISEASE

Ozempic and Wegovy, the popular diabetes and weight-loss drugs, have been found to reduce the risk of kidney complications in people with type 2 diabetes and kidney disease, according to a recent study.

—The New England Journal of Medicine

—Compiled by

Paul Rance Jr.

INFLAMMATION AFFECTS COGNITION

The inflammatory activity caused by rheumatoid arthritis has been linked to specific cognitive impairments, including poorer visuospatial ability, recall, abstract thinking, working memory and concentration, according to a recent study.

—RMD Open

LONG COVID LIVES ON

An estimated 7 percent of adult Americans have had long COVID—around 18 million—according to a recent report. Symptoms, including fatigue, brain fog, shortness of breath, post-exertion malaise (PEM), and more can last for weeks, months or even years following COVID-19.

—JAMA Medical News

The BMJ

AND SOON our showroom will start evolving into a winter wonderland with everything you’ll need to create beautiful holiday memories!

Fall is in full swing and we have everything from Gourds to Ghosts to help you decorate and celebrate in glorious Autumn style!  Bring the festivities outside with a new fire feature and some cozy autumn throws and pillows. We have it all!

From

Seasonal and Holiday indoor and outdoor  Home Décor and Housewares Mums, Pumpkins, Cornstalks, Celosia Gifts for Everyone plus Free Gift Wrapping Gas, Wood Burning, Smokeless and Indoor Fire Pits, Fire Cauldrons and Fireplaces Firewood, Bird Houses, Feeders and Feed ...we have it all

Did you know…

There Are Options! Breast Cancer surgery is not the end of having breasts. You have choices and it’s your right to do what is best for you.

Reconstruction has come a long way with new techniques for restoring breasts after lumpectomy, partial or total mastectomy.

Insurance covers all or most costs involved with breast reconstruction.

Procedures range from implants to the use of the patients own excess tissue (fat) to create new breasts, plus options for those who don’t choose reconstruction but would like a clean and flat closure

Where to begin? Begin by choosing an experienced and caring surgeon who you feel comfortable with, that will take the time to listen and help you come up with a plan.

Dr. Rahul Vemula is a double board-certified reconstructive surgeon who is highly trained in all the newest techniques. His calm and thoughtful demeanor will help patients feel less overwhelmed and more in control after a cancer diagnosis.

The Power Of The Pull

IT’S A POTENT, VERSATILE WORKOUT TOOL THAT DOESN’T REQUIRE AN APP: THE RESISTANCE BAND.

Leave it to Hollywood and sports A-listers to make a popular new craze out of a simple, low-tech exercise tool that’s been around since the 1800s. Resistance bands trace back to a Swiss inventor who designed a prototype gymnastics apparatus using stretchy ropes with clips and handles. Over the years, the bands have been used by rehabbing patients, gym enthusiasts, home workout fiends—and perhaps the occasional ripped celeb.

Today, basketball uber star LeBron James is known to be “with the band.” When a workout video of him went public in 2013, people saw—between footage of the four-time NBA champion practicing hook shots and three-point jumpers—the way he used resistance bands while performing squats, lunges and other plyometric exercises (that is, those that involve maximum muscle exertion in short bursts of time). More than a decade later, James still reportedly uses resistance-band training as part of his workout regimen, and his physical condition is still apparently pretty good. This past summer, at 39 and the league’s all-time leading scorer, he helped the U.S. men’s basketball team win gold at the Paris Olympics. And he shares the resistance-band habit with actor Jason Momoa, actresses Halle Berry, Jessica Alba and Zendaya and others.

The design of resistance bands has improved over time, as they’ve gone from fabric contraptions to today’s latex-fabric blend, synthetic rubber or silicone. They’re also made with varying levels of tension or resistance, making them ideal for strength training, as they require a person’s force to stretch. (This distinguishes resistance-band training from TRX, total resistance exercises, or suspension training, which uses a person’s own body weight as resistance.) The Cleveland Clinic reports that a 2019 study shows that training with resistance bands provides strength gains similar to those achieved using conventional gym equipment.

“Bands can be very beneficial for beginners, pre- or post-rehab facilitation and seniors,” says Ronnie Lubischer, a certified strength and conditioning specialist. (He owns Lubischer’s Burn and Blast 24 Hour Gyms, with locations in Long Branch and West Long Branch.) With nearly 15 years’ experience in the fitness industry and a degree in exercise science, Lubischer notes that resistance bands can be used to specifically target parts of the body. “They’re also good for very nuanced movements for athletes—think shoulder girdle support for quarterbacks or pitchers,” he says. “Experienced lifters can use them to add ancillary movements to lagging body parts, such as the glutes.”

Lubischer also cites the bands’ rehabilitation potential. “Resistance bands supply a very smooth strength arc through all three phases of

your lift—concentric, isometric and eccentric—which makes them perfect for those with tendonitis or arthritic conditions,” he says. “They allow you to work an area without externally loading it, which could be uncomfortable. For beginners and those returning after a long time away from the gym, they are a great way to safely and effectively ramp up your resistance training.”

According to Lubischer, it isn’t hard to pick up a resistance-band workout that will give you the sculpted physique you’ve always wanted. “I like to pair banded chest press with banded rows, as you can quickly transition from one exercise to the next,” he says. “Throw banded biceps curls into the mix, and you get an incredible ‘beach body’ workout quickly with an intense interval.”

Resistance bands aren’t just good for that strength training— they’re good for your health too. As muscles strengthen, blood flow and pressure improve in the body, lowering the risk of heart-related ailments such as hypertension and heart disease, according to the American Council on Exercise (ACE). Lubischer explains: “The bands can provide the stimulus to be both strength- and cardio- based. I give my clients circuits with resistance bands to stimulate muscles and get their hearts pumping in the cardio zone at the same time.”

Resistance-band training also will lead to calorie burn and a boosted metabolism, both of which can result in weight loss when combined with an appropriate diet.

Forget pumping iron—let’s stretch some rubber. Below are four quick, easy resistance-band workouts anyone can try at home. “Just like any form of resistance training,” says our expert, “when used in proper form and intensity, these bands can ‘level you up’ to that next phase of your fitness goals.”

• Chest presses: Wrap the resistance band behind your back, holding both ends with your hands. Starting with your arms at your side and elbows bent, push the band out in front of you as you straighten your elbows, and hold for one second.

• Clamshells: Lie on your side, one leg atop the other with your knees slightly bent. Loop a resistance band around both thighs. Keeping your feet together, lift your top knee. Switch sides after each set.

• Rows: Attach the resistance band securely to a door. Holding the band with both hands, pull the band back as you bend your elbows. Keep your elbows near the side of your body.

• Squats: Stand on the resistance band and grab both ends with your hands. While in a squatting position and holding the band, rise up to a standing position. Lower back down and repeat.

Five local designers offer tips on crafting a space that will delight a kid today—and won’t bring embarrassment tomorrow.

A ROOM TO GROW IN

It’s been said that children are the harshest critics, and perhaps there’s nothing they are more critical about than their own spaces. And why shouldn’t they be? It’s a big world out there, and children have control over very little of it—they should be happy and comfortable in the room that’s all their own.

The challenge? Kids are all about growth and change. The room designs that please your children now may trigger their derision in a year or two, if only because they liked it then and now they’re so past all that. But neither your wallet nor your patience will allow a complete room redo every six months. So how do you make a kid’s room work and keep on working?

Five top Monmouth County designers offer advice.

OUR EXPERTS:

Katherine Cowley

Moose Interior Designs, Brielle

Dulce Feito-Daly

Dulce Feito-Daly Interior Design, Red Bank

Maryan Ibrahim J Vera Interiors, Holmdel

Andrea Leone I & I Designs, Manalapan

Nicole Rice Coastal Decor & Interior Design, Port Monmouth

START WITH A STRONG BASE

One thing all of our designers agree on: Build the room with timeless “basics” that will grow with your child. “If you choose neutral colors like white or wood tones in your main furniture pieces, they will match with multiple styles,” says Nicole Rice. She recommends “multifunctional pieces, such as a dresser that doubles as a changing table for infants, or a desk that can be used for drawing and later for homework. This ensures that the room remains functional and stylish through various stages of your child’s life.” There are also cribs that transition to “big kid” beds, and desks with adjustable legs to accommodate growing bodies. Of course, going neutral needn’t mean sacrificing style. Katherine Cowley says she likes “to source furniture pieces that aren’t bold in color but have interesting design elements, such as a scallop cutout or reeded paneling. Then I use pillows and accessories to add pops of color and pattern to them.”

THINK TWICE ABOUT THEMES

Though going heavy on theming for a child’s room is tempting and can be fun, it very rarely makes sense in the long-term. Today’s enthusiasm for a favorite character or interest will likely not last more than a year or two. Dulce Feito-Daly advises: “Avoid incorporating any stereotypically gender-based color choices or commercialized movie characters in your primary furniture pieces, your carpeting—though area rugs are OK, as they can easily be changed—or permanent wall décor. Instead, opt for a softer color palette of your child’s favorite colors and replaceable accessories that fall within his or her preferences.” There are also some themes that can be tweaked to become more timeless. Says Andrea Leone: “I was designing my son’s bedroom, and at the time he loved all things trains, particularly Thomas the Tank Engine. I knew that would not withstand the test of time. With careful persuasion, I was able to redirect the theme to New York City subways. This allowed me to give the design a slightly more polished appearance, while still achieving our original bedroom goal.” Other themes that will grow up with your child? Maryan Ibrahim suggests “florals, vintage cottage- and coastal-style bedrooms” as styles that last for years.

MIX AND MATCH DETAILS

Our designers all sing the praises of wall decals, frames and other temporary design options. “Personal touches, like interchangeable wall art and customizable bedding, can easily be updated to reflect the child’s current tastes without requiring major renovations,” says Rice. “You can also incorporate storage solutions that blend seamlessly with the room’s décor, such as woven baskets, fabric bins or sleek, built-in cabinets.” Leone encourages creativity. Have a daughter with her heart set on a Barbie-themed room? “We once filled an acrylic lamp base with Barbie shoes,” she says. Cowley praises wall decals, declaring that “they create themes, are easily removable and do not damage the walls.” Ibrahim calls “cozy flooring” a must, noting that area rugs can be swapped out easily. Feito-Daly is picky about rugs and carpeting, however, for good reason. “Always check the product and both how and where it is manufactured, as it could affect your child’s health,” she says. “The indoor air quality can be compromised if your flooring choices contain toxic elements. Always select carpeting that is Green Label Plus certified by CRI (The Carpet & Rug Institute) and tested and certified as a low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) product.” Rice suggests: “Let your child participate in choosing some of the décor items, such as a favorite piece of artwork, a fun lamp or a set of colorful bedding. This encourages the child to take pride in his or her space.”

SLEEP ON IT

The central part of any bedroom? The bed, of course. And, if you’re designing with “room to grow,” it’s a bed that your child will use for a long time. With that in mind, Ibrahim suggests “forgoing toddler beds and twin-sized beds, opting instead for full- or queen-sized beds to ensure greater longevity and functionality.”

Cowley agrees, suggesting a queen bed. “I feel the child is able to fully grow into his or her bedroom with a larger bed size, rather than thinking of the ‘now’ with twin beds or bunk bed options,” she says. She tries to accommodate guests by sourcing a chair that can convert into a twin bed, or a queen with a trundle bed. Other options? Feito-Daly explains that “one or multiple extra-large twin beds, along with lofted beds, are my go-to when designing for larger primary households with three or more children and vacation homes.” “Bunk beds are great in areas such as playrooms and basements,” adds Leone, “but I find that they may not offer as much longevity as children grow. When space is a challenge, we sometimes consider beds with storage options either underneath or along the side.” But she adds an optimistic note. “Nowadays, there seems to be a solution for every hurdle,” she says. “When we can’t find one, we find a way to build it.”

DESIGN IN ZONES

A child’s room is more than just where the child sleeps—it’s where she or he plays, works and grows. A room’s design should foster all of these things. “Start by making a list of the primary zones and their respective functions,” advises Feito-Daly. “Look for high-quality, multifunctional-adaptable furnishings, such as furniture that moves and folds away for hobbies and play.” Says Rice: “One easy way to delineate different areas in a room is by using area rugs to anchor each space. For example, placing a rug under the bed provides a soft landing when you get out of bed, while adding a rug under an activity table helps protect the hardwood floor from debris.” Space limited? “We get creative,” says Leone. “I have a client with a young teenage boy who wants a desk. I am suggesting we design a custom desk that will be ledge-mounted to the wall and on a hinge. This way, it can be folded down when not in use.” Cowley stresses the importance of having room to lounge and relax, in addition to sleep and play. “Whether it’s a beanbag chair or window bench, I feel it’s a nice way for the child to grow into a bedroom, always having one’s own space to read and relax.”

THE GRANDPARENT TEST

IDEALLY SITUATED, A HOLMDEL COLONIAL HAD ALL THE BASICS FOR THREE-GENERATION FAMILY LIVING—IF ITS INTERIOR COULD BE TRANSFORMED.

Design by Sheila Rich, Sheila Rich Interiors

Photography by Lauren Hagerstrom

Text by Donna Rolando

It’s a rare gem of a home that can accommodate three generations together, so when a dated Holmdel house fit the bill, a couple knew they had to buy now and renovate later. Yes, right from the start, this four-bedroom home called for a major redesign—a path worth taking, because it met so much of this family’s wish list, including a private-entrance grandparents’ suite.

“This one ticked every box,” says Sheila Rich of the eponymous design firm in Monmouth Beach. “It was a 40-year-old colonial and perfectly situated on a spacious piece of property, with a pool and in a very desirable neighborhood with excellent schools.”

“We saw a lot of potential,” agreed the lady of the house, speaking of the purchase.

Rich was a support during this stressful time, which found family

In this Holmdel home, designer Sheila Rich worked to achieve “a harmonious blend of style and practicality” with a new, open floor plan, seen here with the natural-light-infused kitchen and great room.

members returning to Monmouth County from another country before the start of school. “It was like madness,” says this mother of two. “It was really nice to have Sheila.”

While promising a sound structure, the colonial’s boxy format would fit neither family life nor entertainment needs, so plans called for tearing down walls and reconfiguring the space to suit generations: the couple, their children and the kids’ grandparents under one roof. With the new layout, a small dining room became a sitting room, while the old living room yielded to a more entertainment-friendly dining room and a great room emerged next to the kitchen, maximizing an open flow.

Overall, Rich aimed for an elegant and timeless design via a neutral palette in which grays are accented with navy and walnutstained oak planks unite the first floor—yet, as the designer explains, “each room has its own personality.”

As the redesign’s grand finale, the kitchen has gone from dark and enclosed to light, bright and wow as well as functional. The family wanted six chairs, which Rich delivered with style—faux leather, with nailheads in performance fabric. The main eating area is a wood-topped island that’s easy-maintenance, while the prep island with twin stools boasts quartzite veining like the counters by PMI International.

For a special touch, the Medallion cabinets are stained gray to highlight maple graining and finished in peppercorn with an ebony glaze and polished chrome, she says. There’s subtle drama over the stove, where Rich ran high-gloss subway tile in a herringbone brick pattern and extended the peppercorn effect to the hood.

At the window wall Rich created a “beautiful focal point” with an expanded view to go with a Galley sink on legs and glass cabinetry. The kitchen is brighter sans upper cabinets, but pantry and island storage fill any void. Besides a dedicated coffee station to simplify life, Rich provided a double oven, an island microwave drawer and a paneled Sub-Zero.

Linear LED lighting by Kuzco makes a statement over the family’s favorite dining area—a wood-top island with plenty of seating. For contrast, the prep island demonstrates the beauty of quartzite.

This page: With curved, upholstered chairs, the dining room delivers style and comfort. Opposite page: “We were able to have a little fun,” Rich says of the marblelike veining dramatizing this powder room.

“It’s perfect for us,” says the homeowner about the kitchen, the hub of the house. “We eat all our meals there, for the most part.”

Open to the great room, the dining room is the choice for special occasions, and it’s comfortable, says Rich, with curved upholstered chairs that “kind of hug you when you’re sitting” at the spacious walnut table by Vanguard. While a geometric Masland rug adds warmth and the square pendant a contemporary touch, the room gets a wow from a 3D walnut console topped with a mirror trio.

Like the kitchen, which maximizes the feel of the outdoors, the great room highlights nature outside a bay window. Rich sticks to a neutral palette, from the

contemporary rug that grounds the space to the textured sectional facing a white fireplace and a TV. For versatility, a leather ottoman doubles as a footrest or a coffee table, and wood-leather twin chairs swivel for conversation.

An example of layout-informed style is the powder room, redesigned to no longer field traffic from the back porch to the kitchen. In the spirit of fun, Rich boldly introduces a marble-effect accent wall, while twin hexagon mirrors add oomph over a simple vanity.

Buying a home that needs work can be a gamble, but this extended family hit the design jackpot.

“Everything looks great,” says the homeowner, crediting designer Rich with “a really great job.”

6 GRAND MANSIONS ESCAPES

Reach one of these stately estates with a short drive—and let your daydreams come alive.

Perhaps in your mind’s secret life you’re the heroine of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, seeing the dignified Pemberley estate for the first time and quickly adjusting your opinion of Mr. Darcy. Or maybe the costumed drama and rolling English gardens of Netflix’s Bridgerton live in your fantasies. A car trip won’t take you back to Regency England, but you’d be surprised at the glorious, romantic architecture it can bring within view—with fall colors as a visual background chorus. Any one of these six impressive homes will stir your imagination:

SKYLANDS MANOR, RINGWOOD, N.J.

About an hour and 40 minutes from Monmouth, the New Jersey Botanical Garden is worth a visit on its own, offering 96 acres designed by some of the foremost landscape architects of their day. But tucked within is a spectacular, 44-room Tudor revival manor house, designed in the 1920s by architect John Russell Pope. The reproduction English mansion features twisting stone staircases, stately arches and rich wood paneling. It’s no wonder that it is now a popular wedding venue— it’s often described as a castle out of a fairy tale. In case you don’t want to wait for your big day to see it (or have already foolishly tied the knot in some humbler venue), the gardens offer guided tours one Sunday each month.

Beyond the tour: On October 22, the gardens will host their Harvest Fest, a family-friendly event with games, activities, craft vendors and special tours. If you want to take in more spectacular autumn leaves and Skylands has whetted your appetite for historic locales, Ringwood Manor museum is just a few minutes down the road, surrounded by the breathtaking Ramapo Mountains, now at the height of their beauty.

Info: njbg.org

DRUMTHWACKET, PRINCETON, N.J.

This town’s Ivy League campus is iconic (and has some incredible historic architecture open for tours), but Drumthwacket takes that status to new heights. About an hour from Monmouth by car, the estate was built in 1835 and is the official residence of the New Jersey governor. (Governor Murphy, however, uses it only for official functions, so don’t count on bumping into him.) Its silhouette looks the part of a government building, with its Greek columns and distinctive color bringing a different white house to mind. Inside, you’ll find parlors, music rooms and centuries of antiques. Tours are held on select Wednesdays and can be arranged for special functions.

Beyond the tour: Charming downtown Princeton is filled with cafes, restaurants and coffee shops to try at your leisure (check out Chez Alice Patisserie for the perfect sweet treat). On the campus, the Gothic–style University Chapel is a must-see. Seeking art? The university curates two off-campus gallery spaces, Art@Bainbridge and Art on Hulfish. Info: drumthwacket.org

LYNDHURST MANSION, TARRYTOWN, N.Y.

Not to be confused with Lyndhurst Township in Bergen County, this Gothic Revival country house sits on its own 67-acre park beside the Hudson River in Tarrytown, N.Y., only about an hour and a half’s drive from Monmouth. The views of the Hudson alone justify a visit, but this mansion is by turns moody and romantic, with peaked, vaulted and ornamented ceilings and small, sharply arched windows. The estate sits on a landscape park filled with rolling lawns, in addition to an onion-domed glass greenhouse space—at one time one of the largest structures of its kind in the U.S. The grounds are open to visitors daily from April until December, and tours are held on select days (check the mansion’s website). Different tour options are also available, each showcasing a different element of the estate.

Beyond the tour: Down the road from Tarrytown is Sleepy Hollow, where they take their dedication to Halloween seriously. The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze runs until mid-November, showcasing 7,000 carved and illuminated pumpkins. If you’d prefer to stay on mansion grounds, check out Lyndhurst After Dark, Oct. 17–20 and 24–27, and wander the grounds by candlelight.

Info: lyndhurst.org

OLD WESTBURY GARDENS, OLD WESTBURY, N.Y.

It takes about two hours to get to Nassau County from Monmouth (and plan for some traffic), but this former estate of businessman John Shaffer Phipps, built in 1906 to resemble an English country house, is surely worth the trip. Now a museum, the house contains 23 rooms and the grounds cover 160 acres. The site embodies oldworld class so well that many movies have used its exterior and ground floor as a filming location, including North by Northwest and American Gangster It even inspired the old-money Buchanan Estate featured in Baz Luhrmann’s larger-than-life adaptation of The Great Gatsby The grounds are open for visits every day except Tuesdays until the end of October. Beyond the tour: Feeling famished after wandering the grounds? Westbury, N.Y., is home to fantastic, high-end dining options, including Galleria Ristorante, a white-tablecloth mainstay of northern Italian cuisine with a piano player on the weekends. Or you can try Steve’s Piccola Bussola Restaurant for more Italian favorites and a warm, homey atmosphere that never sacrifices class. Info: oldwestburygardens.org

SPRINGWOOD, HYDE PARK, N.Y.

About two and a half hours from Monmouth, Springwood was once the home of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Done up in a mix of Federal and Italianate architectural styles, this distinctive structure, originally built around 1793 and renovated in 1850, has hosted the likes of Queen Elizabeth II and John F. Kennedy. Among the notable rooms is the entrance hall, which is filled with art from Roosevelt’s collection, a library of more than 14,000 volumes and a music room with Chinese porcelain and lacquerware. Now a National Historic Site, the location is open to visitors daily.

Beyond the tour: Delightfully quaint Dutchess County comes alive in the autumn. Head to nearby Greig Farm in Red Hook to pick your own apples and pumpkins, pet pygmy goats, pick up fresh-baked goods and sip apple cider. Down the road from Springwood is the Village of Rhinebeck, with a small-town feel and several antiques shops.

Info: nps.gov

VANDERBILT MANSION, HYDE PARK, N.Y.

Also in Dutchess County’s Hyde Park (and the same two and a half hours away) is the Vanderbilt Mansion, a home built specifically for an aristocratic lifestyle. This 54-room mansion lives up to the evocative Vanderbilt name in spades. With a Beaux-Arts architecture style showing off Renaissance and Baroque stylings in stunning iron and glass, the interior is breathtaking, with elaborate moldings, Greek columns and carved fireplaces. Now a National Historic Site, the house is open daily until the end of October.

Beyond the tour: Hyde Park is home to the Culinary Institute of America (the other CIA), which means that it boasts some serious dining establishments. These restaurants are staffed by CIA students who are all striving to impress and will likely go on to staff fine eateries all over the country. Try the American Bounty Restaurant, where local ingredients come together into modern American classics, or The Bocuse Restaurant, which offers new interpretations of French classics.

Info: nps.gov

—Kirsten Meehan

Perfect Peppers

This colorful fruit (yes, it’s a fruit) will sweeten any main dish.

TASTES

ONE-PAN STEAK AND PEPPERS

Yields 4-6 servings

INGREDIENTS

n 1 lbs. chuck steak, cut into

medium slices

n 1 large onion, cut into medium strips

n ½ green bell pepper, cut into medium strips

n ½ red bell pepper, cut into me-

dium strips

n 1 tsp. black pepper

n salt to taste

n 2 cups water

n 3 Tbs. oil

For The Sauce

n 3 Tbs. low-sodium soy sauce

n 1 Tbs. cornstarch

n 1 Tbs. sugar

n ½ cup water

n ½ tsp. onion powder

n ½ tsp. garlic powder

n ¼ tsp. ginger powder

DIRECTIONS

In a pan, add three tablespoons of oil and fry the chuck in two batches until brown on both sides. Remove from pan and set aside.

In the same oil, fry the onion until translucent. Remove from pan and set aside.

In the same pan, fry the bell peppers for a few seconds and set aside.

Add the fried chuck back to the pan and season with salt and black pepper. Add two cups of water and let it cook on medium heat for 45 minutes or until the meat is tender. Add water if the meat is still tough and continue cooking.

When the meat is cooked, add the onion and bell pepper.

Mix the sauce ingredients and pour over the steak and stir until the sauce thickens. Serve hot.

“What a delicious, filling and flavorful recipe to try today! I always love a lean protein at every meal. Chuck roast fits the bill, and has tons of iron. And it will keep you full for hours. The peppers and onions give this recipe tons of zesty flavor, as well as lots of fiber and vitamins and minerals. Make this recipe in bulk for an easy go-to lunch or dinner.”

Ashley Kravitz, registered dietitian, Nutrition Specialists of New Jersey, Freehold

TASTES

ONE-PAN GROUND TURKEY STUFFED PEPPERS

Yields 4-6 servings

INGREDIENTS

n 6 large bell peppers, any color

n 2 cups wild rice, cooked

n 1 lb. lean ground turkey

n 2 cloves garlic, minced

n 1 small onion, diced

n 1 16 oz. jar crushed tomatoes

n 1 tsp. Italian seasoning

n 1 tsp. salt

n 1/2 tsp. pepper

n 11/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

n 1 Tbs. olive oil

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare the rice and set aside. You will need two cups of cooked rice.

Cut off the tops of the peppers, remove the seeds, trim the bottoms to help them sit flat in the skillet and rinse thoroughly. In a large pan, boil the peppers for 5 minutes then remove from water and turn upside down onto a paper towel to dry.

In a large skillet, add the olive oil, garlic and onion, and saute until tender. Add the turkey and brown until thoroughly cooked.

Add the crushed tomatoes, rice, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper and 1/2 cup of the shredded cheese and stir until blended.

Fill the peppers evenly with the mixture, place in a lightly greased, 10-inch, cast-iron skillet, or baking dish of your choice. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. Remove and add the remaining cheese to the top of peppers and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted.

“Stuffed peppers are a household favorite for many families. When topping the stuffed peppers, I would recommend going for low-fat cheese to reduce the amount of saturated fat and cholesterol in the meal. Cheese is an excellent source of vitamin D, calcium and protein, but it is always best to go for low-fat dairy products whenever possible.”

Ashley Kravitz, registered dietitian, Nutrition Specialists of New Jersey, Freehold

Light Your Fire

This sweet sip will keep everyone at your party warm, toasty—and in a festive spirit—all season long.

S’MORES MARTINI

Makes: 1 serving

INGREDIENTS

For Rimming the Glass: n chocolate syrup n crushed graham crackers

For the Martini:

n 21/2 oz. s’mores vodka

(If you can’t find s’mores vodka, use vanilla vodka instead.)

n 2 oz. RumChata

n 2 tsp. of chocolate syrup

n 1/4 cup heavy cream

For Garnish:

n 3 large marshmallows n crushed graham crackers n chocolate syrup

DIRECTIONS

Place a layer of chocolate syrup in a shallow dish. In another shallow dish, add a layer of crushed graham crackers. Rim a martini glass with chocolate syrup, then dip into the graham cracker crumbs. Place the 2 teaspoons of chocolate syrup in the bottom of the glass. Mix the RumChata and vodka together in a cocktail shaker then strain into the martini glass. Whip the tablespoon of s’mores vodka together with the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks, then spoon it on top of the martini. Add three marshmallows to a wooden or metal skewer. Using a kitchen torch, toast the marshmallows until they get slightly toasted. Place the marshmallows on top of the martini glass, drizzle with chocolate syrup and sprinkle on crushed graham crackers.

EDUCATION PLANNER

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Extraordinary opportunities.

Oak Hill Academy

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

347 Middletown-Lincroft Rd., Lincroft, NJ 732.530.1343 | www.oakhillacademy.com

Ranney School

At Ranney School, we know and value every child to inspire them to reach their highest potential at every stage of their educational journey. Ranney is an Age 3 through Grade 12 independent, coed, secular college preparatory school located in Tinton Falls. From our youngest learners to those looking ahead to college, Ranney students are prepared, challenged, and encouraged as individuals. Ranney offers an innovative, flexible curriculum and robust student life. Each student is supported by a team of educators and a nurturing community to pursue all of their passions. 235 Hope Rd., Tinton Falls, NJ 732.542.4777 | www.ranneyschool.org

Ranney School

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.

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

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

Robinson Ale House

1200 Ocean Ave. N.

732.774.1400 therobinsonalehouse asburypark.com

Stella Marina

Restaurant & Bar

800 Ocean Ave. 732.775.7776 stellamarinarestaurant.com

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

Harborside Grill

40 First Ave. 732.291.0066 ahwinebar.com

Kunya Siam Thai Restaurant 99 First Ave. 732.291.2397 kunyasiam.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

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

Plz. 732.243.9259 simplysouthern comfortfoods.com

BRADLEY BEACH

Buttered Biscuit

Main St. 732.807.4069 thebutteredbiscuitcafe. com

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

EATONTOWN

All Seasons Restaurant

176 Wyckoff Rd.

732.542.9462 allseasonsrestaurant.net

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

21 A On Broadway 202 Broadway 732.483.6967 21aonbroadway.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

MANALAPAN

Anemos Greek Cuisine 333 Rte. 9 732.414.6590 anemosgreekcuisine.com

Cholula Restaurant 24 Wilson Ave. 732.786.0080 cholularestaurant englishtown.com

Manalapan Diner 48 Rte. 9 732.462.7165 manalapandiner.com

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

Peking Pavilion 110 Rte. 33 732.308.9700 pekingpavilion.coma

MANASQUAN

Blend On Main

390 E. Main St. 732.223.0030 blendonmain.com

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

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

Squan Tavern 15 Broad St. 732.223.3324 squantavern.com

MATAWAN

Buttonwood Manor 845 Rte. 34 N. buttonwoodmanor.com

MIDDLETOWN

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

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

Neelam Exotic Indian Cuisine 1178 Rte. 35 S. 732.671.8900 neelamindiancuisine.com

NEPTUNE Il Posto 1129 Fifth Ave. 732.775.4823

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

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

Court Jester, Freehold

RED BANK

26 West On The Navesink

26 W. Front St. 732.383.5664 26westonthenavesink.com

Birravino

183 Riverside Ave. 732.842.5990 birravino.com

B2 Bistro + Bar 141 Shrewsbury Ave. 732.268.8555 b2bistro.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

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

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

SEA BRIGHT

Anjelica’s 1070 Ocean Ave. 732.842.2800 anjelicas.com

Eventide

Grille

1400 Ocean Ave. N. 732.530.1414 eventidegrille.com

The Rum Runner 816 Ocean Ave. 732.842.2894 mcloonesrumrunner.com

Tommy’s Tavern + Tap 1030 Ocean Ave. 732.842.5044 tommystavernandtap.com

SEA GIRT

Fratello’s 810 The Plaza 732.974.8833 fratellosnj.com

SHREWSBURY

Americana

Diner 1160 Rte. 35 S. 732.542.1658 americanadiner.net

Bayroot 555 Shrewsbury Ave. 732.747.3444 bayrootmarket.com

D’jeet 637 Broad St. 732.224.8887 djeetcatering.com

SPRING LAKE

Arugula 306 Morris Ave. 732.974.2800 arugulaspringlakenj.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

St. Stephen’s Green Publick House

2031 Rte. 71

732.449.2626 ssgpub.com

Whispers

200 Monmouth Ave. 732.974.9755 whispersrestaurant.com

WALL

Meemom’s 1825 Rte. 35

732.359.8544 meemoms.com

Mossuto’s Market & Cafe

2029 Rte. 35 S. 732.449.8058 mossutosmarket.com

Shogun

Legends

1969 Rte. 34

732.449.6696 shogunlegends.com

JBJ Soul Kitchen, Red Bank

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Getting India Just Right

Even if the subcontinent’s

cuisine is something you try at home,

you’ll

be wowed by the pros at Arora’s Modern Indian Bistro in Freehold.

Learning how to prepare simple Indian dishes in my home kitchen has been a treat: I get one of my favorite cuisines when and how I want. No matter how well I think my dishes turn out, however, cooking the South Asian fare at home doesn’t quite replicate the authentic taste found in a traditional restaurant.

Naturally, my efforts put me in a mood to enjoy a meal I didn’t have to make myself in a place that was new to me. That brought me to Arora’s Modern Indian Bistro, which opened earlier this year in Freehold’s Barclay Square retail strip. I was excited even before my friend and I made reservations, as I was eager to try the town’s latest Indian restaurant. (I’ve had my fair share of naan and butter chicken at other Indian restaurants in Freehold, such as Aarzu and Saffron—Monmouth, December 2023.)

Arora quickly earned stars for its clean, modern dining room, sleek table settings and personable staff, including our server on a busy Saturday night. He explained each section of the food menu and shared his suggestions from the wine offerings. On this night, we opted to go without vino and kept our focus on food, ordering two quick appetizers for the table.

After going through the long list of vegetarian appetizers, which included potato pancakes, paneers (cheese), fried cauliflower and traditional pani puri, we went with a classic: vegetable samosas. Each of the bitesized turnovers was filled with a blend of potatoes, peas and a flavorful blast of ginger, cumin and other spices. A forkful of the accompanying mint and tamarind chutney added more zest to each bite. To satisfy my taste for meat, I chose Afghani kebab for our second starter. The dish came with a generous portion of boneless chicken chunks that had been flavored with seemingly equal amounts of ginger, garlic and cardamom.

Entrées at Arora reflect the best of India, featuring both northern and southern Indian cuisine. It’s uncommon to find a restaurant that does both, so the

menu here was a treat. North India is known for its bread-based dishes and rich curries, such as the tikka masala that I’ve almost (some may think I’m not that close) mastered at home. In the country’s south, you’ll find more rice, lentils and dosa. For this dinner, I went with the northern-leaning goat curry. A meat I rarely prepare on my own, the goat here was as tender as any red meat I’ve tried—each bite was delicate, no gamy flavor here. Diners may select the spice level of their dish, and I asked for hot curry sauce, which was made with tomato, onion and many chilies. Thankfully, I had a cool and soothing mango lassi to sip and tame the heat.

My friend, meanwhile, had a just-astasty shrimp curry. The dish was made with a sweet (but not too sweet) coconut sauce that, in my opinion, could’ve been slurped like a delicious soup, but was just as good drizzled over the accompanying rice. While I enjoyed the sauce, my friend had equal praise for the perfectly cooked shrimp.

The dessert menu includes a variety of ice-cream flavors, puddings (how good does carrot pudding with saffron and cardamom sound?) and pastries. But I’ve never known a gulab jamun that I didn’t try—and love. Arora’s version of the sweet condensed-milk balls was spot on, and my friend and I had two servings of the treat to cap our meal.

Though we’d craved traditional Indian flavors, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the huge selection on “The Bread Bar” (plenty of naan, roti, kulcha and more) as well as an assortment of Indo-Chinese dishes. My culinary skills aren’t quite up to the task of making those fusion flavors, so I’m sure we’ll sample a few new breads and some Indo-Chinese food during our next visit. I’m looking forward to it already!

—Darius Amos

Arora’s Modern Indian Bistro

HOME SHOWCASE

B&B SIDING AND ROOFING

American Dream Heating and Cooling LLC was created to meet the needs of our local New Jersey home owners.

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

848.444.3386

WWW.AMERICANDREAMAIR.COM

We aim to revolutionize the home exterior sector into a style-centric journey, collaborating with clients to co-imagine their dream exteriors. Our design experts blend contemporary trends with timeless techniques. Upholding our values of transparency, integrity, and quality, we’ve revitalized over 6,000 homes and garnered hundreds of 5-star reviews. Enjoy $0 down financing and unparalleled lifetime warranties on materials and labor. Contact us to redefine your home’s exterior with confidence.

8 LEITRIM LN., HAZLET, NJ 732.756.9909 | WWW.BBSIDING.COM

GATSBY GLASS

Discover elegance and sophistication with Gatsby Glass. From custom glass showers and mirrors to glass railings and wine rooms, we tailor each project to your vision. Our expert team ensures top-quality craftsmanship and minimal disruption to your home or office. Experience clarity and style like never before.

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848.347.2779

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

WWW.SHOPGPS.COM

WWW.KOHLERBYGPS.COM

MOOSE INTERIOR DESIGNS

Moose Interior Designs is a fullservice interior design firm based in Monmouth County, New Jersey, focusing on residential renovations and new construction that inspire with an inviting and timeless aesthetic. Katherine Cowley founded Moose Interior Designs in 2020 with a vision for creating custom interiors that seamlessly integrate interior architecture elements with curated furnishings and finishes, resulting in welcoming spaces that immediately feel like home, in the best possible way.

501 UNION AVE, SUITE A, BRIELLE, NJ

732.539.9223

WWW.MOOSEINTERIORDESIGNS.COM

NJ GRAVEL & SAND

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

1661 ROUTE 34 SOUTH, WALL, NJ

732.938.5252 | WWW.NJGRAVELSAND.COM

PASCALE COPPOLA

Pascale Coppola is an exceptional realtor and a trusted friend, known for her vast local market expertise and her dedication to getting clients the results they desire. As a top producer in Monmouth County, NJ, Pascale’s commitment to her clients and her in-depth knowledge of the area set her apart. Whether buying or selling, you can trust Pascale to guide you through every step of the process with professionalism and care.

HERITAGE HOUSE SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY 908.902.0404| PASCALE@PASCALECOPPOLA.COM

WWW.PASCALECOPPOLA.COM

PMI INTERNATIONAL STONE IMPORTERS

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

MARLBORO, NJ | ALBANY, NY

WWW.PMIROCK.COM

RAINBOW ART GLASS

Discover Rainbow Art Glass! As your premier wholesale distributor, we offer a vast selection of stained glass, cabinet glass, architectural glass, & more!—over 1500 styles in stock! With years of experience and a commitment to customer satisfaction, we ensure fast shipping for both small and large orders, domestically and internationally. We have everything you need from tools to educational books for your glass projects at unbeatable prices. Choose Rainbow Art Glass— where your creativity shines!

732.681.6003 | INFO@RAINBOWARTGLASS.COM

RYSERS LANDSCAPE SUPPLY

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

145 WHITE RD., LITTLE SILVER, NJ

732.741.8338

WWW.RYSERSLANDSCAPESUPPLY.COM

TOWN APPLIANCE

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

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

WOODHAVEN

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

LAKEWOOD • MANAHAWKIN MANALAPAN/FREEHOLD POINT PLEASANT BEACH • SHREWSBURY 1732.795.6200 | WWW.WOODHAVENLUMBER.COM

WORLDWIDE FLOORING DESIGN CENTER

For over 30 years, Worldwide has been proudly serving residents surrounding their four locations in Edison, Fairfield, Lawrenceville, and Old Bridge. While all locations offer the finest selection of brand name flooring, carpet, stair runners and custom rugs the Edison and Old Bridge locations feature Kitchen and Bath Studios offering the same fine quality in cabinets, countertops and more. From concept to installation, Worldwide’s sales experts, designers, and installers make their customers’ home updates and renovations a wonderful experience. NOW OPEN SEVEN DAYS. 1.888.WORLD40

WWW.WORLDWIDEFLOORS.COM

Be There

With festivals, concerts and the great outdoors, fall in Monmouth is better than ever.

18–19, 25–26

loves a good scare this time of year, and at The Historic Village at Allaire in Farmingdale. The annual NIGHT OF FRIGHTS place from 6 to 9 p.m. every Friday Saturday. The village will be filled with displays and scenes as well as other live Admission is $15 for children ages 4 to adults. Find out more at allairevillage.org.

NOW THROUGH OCT. 20

feel-good comedy AMERICAN MARIACHI comes to the Two River Theater in Red Bank. The musical tells the hilarious and heartfelt story of two cousins who start an all-girl mariachi band the 1970s, something that was unheard of at the time. Visit tworivertheater.org and more

NOW THROUGH NOV.

Enjoying wagon rides, pumpkin patches and petting zoos are fall traditions for many New Jerseyans. Experience these and more at the FALL HARVEST FESTIVAL , happening now through midNovember at Allaire Community Farm in Wall Township. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for kids under 18; rides and activities are extra. For more times and an updated schedule, allairecommunityfarm.org.

OCT. 19

OCT. 19

For a little kitchen inspiration this fall, sign up for the SPRING LAKE KITCHEN TOUR from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Take a self-guided tour of some of the town’s most stunning kitchens and sample delectable treats prepared by local chefs along the way. Tickets are $85 for the tour and $150 for VIP access. Proceeds benefit the School PTA. Learn more at springlakekitchentour.com.

Get into the holiday spirit at Freehold’s MONSTER MASH & JACK-O-LANTERN CONTEST , part of the town’s free Halloween Spooktacular. From 6 to 8 p.m. at the Hall of Records, families can play games, decorate jack-o’-lanterns, win prizes, dance to music, bounce on inflatables and more. Find out more at freeholdspooktacular.com.

The magic of Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers was real, and the KENNY & DOLLY: REAL LOVE TRIBUTE SHOW recreates it. Musicians Marty Edwards and Wendy T will deliver the duo’s incredible songs and the onstage playfulness during 2 p.m. show at Algonquin Arts Manasquan. tickets now at algonquinarts.org.

Bring the kids to see Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and all at DISNEY JR. LIVE LET’S PLAY , which comes Hackensack Meridian Theatre in Red Bank. noon and 4 p.m. shows beloved characters as out who’s behind the that keeps interrupting their fun. Tickets range from $34 to $73 and can be purchased at thebasie.org.

OCT. 27

A 3-mile run deserves a treat, right? Everyone gets a sweet bite at the MAIN STREET DONUTS CIDER & DONUT RUN in Belmar. Sign up now for the 5K, which takes place at 9:30 a.m. along the Belmar boardwalk, and head to the finish line. Participants will receive a medal as well as donuts and cider. Awards will be given to top runners in several age categories. Registration is $40 and includes a long-sleeved T-shirt. Search for the race at runsignup.com to sign up now.

NOV. 17

Want to see how your sports car really performs? Learn to navigate a track at a ROAD COURSE SCHOOL AND OPEN TRACK session. The full-day, novice class starts at 9 a.m. at Raceway Park in Englishtown and is intended to teach the basics of highperformance driving. Upon completion, you’ll receive your “Green” license, which approves you for green level open track events. For registration and additional course dates, visit etownracewaypark.com.

STARTING NOV. 22

never too early to get into the Christmas spirit, so head over to PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel for the annual MAGIC OF LIGHTS display. The drive-through Christmas lights exhibit also features music, a petting zoo, games more. Online are $30 weekdays, $35 for weekends. There is an additional charge for purchased gate. Get more and buy tickets at magicoflights.com.

Gatherings

Monmouth residents always show up to support their friends and neighbors.

1. JBJ SOUL KITCHEN

Speaker Emerita of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi and her family as well as Governor Phil Murphy and First Lady Tammy Murphy recently visited Red Bank-based JBJ Soul Kitchen. The special guests met with staff and witnessed their impact on the community.

2-3. BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF MONMOUTH

COUNTY

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County (BGCM) hosted its 17th annual “Swing for the Kids” golf tournament at the Hollywood Golf Club in Deal. The event raised money to support after-school and summer camp programs.

4-5. MONMOUTH MEDICAL CENTER

Monmouth Medical Center held its 29th annual Power of Pink Luncheon and raised roughly $700,000 for cancer services at MMC. The audience of nearly 500 also enjoyed a fireside chat with famed stage and screen actor and breast cancer survivor Edie Falco.

6. AMERICAN SOCIETY OF INTERIOR DESIGNERS

The American Society of Interior Designers New Jersey chapter presented its annual Design Excellence Awards. Pictured are Monmouth County winners Jacqueline Ferreira, Sheila Rich, Anna Maria Mannarino and Beth Insabella Walsh with ASID NJ President Marina Umali.

7. SPECIAL OLYMPICS

The Belmar Police Department was one of several area agencies to partipate in the Annual Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. The event helped raise money and awareness for the annual Special Olympics program.

8. FULFILL

Members of Fulfill, a Neptune-based food pantry, were guests at the grand opening of the new Amazon Fresh in Eatontown. Amazon also presented a monetary donation to the nonprofit for food and supplies.

A MONMOUTH MOMENT

“I was born in Monmouth County and raised on its beaches, and I have been taking photos of the landscapes here since I was a kid. The beaches have always provided a peaceful place to capture nature’s true beauty. On one outing, I saw this crab right around sunset. It was a peaceful, positive experience—both the crab and the sunset were beautiful.”

—George Sakelaris,

Middletown

Photo

Get More Out of Your Mammo

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