New Jersey’s leading mirror and glass manufacturer for over 40 years. We utilize state of the art equipment from around the globe, allowing us to measure, deliver and install custom products in under one week!
If you’re looking for custom mirror or glass work in the tri-state area, you’re in the right place! We have an accessible production facility in Tinton Falls, NJ and a showroom conveniently located on Highway 35 in Eatontown, NJ. We have been in business for over 40 years and our products have been refined to only include the highest quality materials available.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE
WILLIAM GARDELL
DESIGN DIRECTOR
DEBBIE MCKENNA
PHOTOGRAPHERS ANDREI JACKAMETS
JOE LYPOWY
JOHN VITOLLO ANDREA PHOX
PUBLISHER AND OPERATOR DIRECT COMMUNICATIONS & CONSULTING, LLC
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5 Things To Do Indoors: Community Magazine Offers 5 Great Suggestions on a Rainy Day!
BY BILL CLARK
Spring may be right around the corner, but there are still plenty of cold days to seek refuge inside. Whether you’ve just had enough of the chill in the air or a late winter storm puts a damper on your plans, here are some activities that bring you inside but still offer fun and the chance to create memories for you and your family.
1. Silverball Retro Arcade, Asbury Park Boardwalk
Bring back a little nostalgia. Kids and adults can walk through this interactive museum and play classic pinball games that date back to the 1950s. Battle each other to see who can reach the highest score in a game of air hockey. This museum shines bright with flashing and colorful lights. 1000 Ocean Ave. | silverballmuseum.com
2. Monster Mini Golf, Eatontown
Mini golf, arcade games, or virtual reality are all available on days when you don’t want to face the reality of the cold, rainy weather. No need to be afraid of the dark with the neon glow elements. If you can make a tricky putt here, you’ll be ready when the greens open in spring.
749 Hope Rd. | monsterminigolf.com
3. Gravity Vault, Middletown Strap into a harness, grab some climbing shoes, and take
on some trick routes at this indoor climbing gym. There are options for first-time climbers, those looking for the trickiest routes, kids, and those who just want to have fun. Fall in love with the sport? Get belay certified and make it a routine with your friends.
37 Kanes Ln. | gravityvault.com
4. Asbury Book Cooperative
Located in downtown Asbury Park, the ABC is the perfect spot to escape the cold. Offering a thorough selection for an independent bookstore, the employees and volunteers are knowledgeable and ready to provide recommendations or suggestions. There are also weekly events such as author appearances, story time, or musical performances. Once you find the perfect book, look through their selection of puzzles and other eclectic offerings.
644A Cookman Ave. | asburybookcoop.org
5. Monmouth Museum
Located on the campus of Brookdale Community College in Lincroft, Monmouth Museum has plenty of standing exhibits and scheduled events in art, history, and science to keep any member of the family entertained and educated. Children can climb through play areas or work hands-on with some of the arts and crafts available.
Penelope Stout is closely associated with the founding of the Middle town Village in the 17th centu ry. Some facts and dates pertaining to her life have blurred over time, along with the near-legendary events she lived through, but her status as the “Mother of Middletown” continues to live on.
In the 17th century, Middletown – and Monmouth County in general – was essentially the frontier. Middletown is generally considered to have been founded or orga nized into a town in 1664, just 45 years after the Pilgrims landed on Plymouth Rock in Massachusetts. That event was clos er to the founding of Middletown than we are to Woodstock today – which I am sure doesn’t seem that long ago to many of you reading this now.
What is now called New Jersey had been partially settled by the Dutch, with the first permanent Dutch settlement in Jersey City, founded in 1630. The Dutch settled in relatively limited numbers until the English Crown took control of New York and New Jersey after a war with the Dutch in 1664. That is when English settlers started to populate what is now Middletown. Many of these settlers came from already established English colonies in Rhode Island and Long Island, rather than directly from England.
Penelope Stout was the first known European woman to set foot in Monmouth County. She is remembered as Penelope Stout, but was known as Penelope Van Princis when she left Holland during the first half of the 17th century (the exact year is disputed). She traveled with her husband, who became ill on the long voyage, and other settlers heading for the New World. The ship either wrecked or became stranded off of what is now Sandy Hook. Fearing attacks from potentially hostile Native Americans (Lenape), the surviving settlers and crew decided to head to New Amsterdam (now New York City) as soon as possible. Penelope chose to stay with her husband, who was too ill to travel.
Soon thereafter, a party of hostile Native Americans did come upon them. Penelope’s husband was killed, and she was gravely wounded and then presumably left for dead. According to later accounts, she was wounded in the gut, possibly
partially scalped, and had to crawl to seek shelter in a hollowed-out tree. She remained there for several days until she was found by an older, kindly Lenape man who took her to his home and nursed her back to health. Accounts differ as to whether he brought her to New Amsterdam himself or took her to other Dutch settlers who had been sent out to locate her. She recovered and later married an Englishman in New Amsterdam named Richard Stout. Richard had served in the Royal Navy for seven years and hailed from Nottinghamshire, England. Penelope and Richard married around 1644 and had 10 children. The Stouts were among the first 50 European families to settle in Middletown.
Some accounts indicate that Penelope lived to the age of 110. At the time of her death in 1712, she reportedly had as many as 502 descendants. This is even more amazing when one considers that Monmouth County only had a population of 25,000 during the American Revolution in the 1770s, 60 years later.
If she wasn’t the Mother of Middletown, she certainly was the grandmother – or great-grandmother – of much of its inhabitants.
QUESTION: My nose is always stuffy, worse on one side. And not only that... I am told by my spouse that I snore loudly! What can I do?
ANSWER: Your best bet is a full evaluation by an ENT specialist who can determine what is causing your nasal obstruction and the most effective treatment. Often, once the nasal breathing is restored, the loud snoring is then diminished or even eliminated. There are several steps necessary for a thorough exam:
HISTORY: Questioning the patient about previous trauma to the nose and also anything that may cause chronic swelling inside the nasal cavity, like recurrent sinus infections, allergies, and overuse of intranasal sprays such as Afrin.
EXAM: Fiberoptic scope of the nose and throat to look for septal deviations, polyps, abnormal enlargements of other intranasal structures, and draining secretions which can be cultured. Check the external nasal structure for cartilage collapse that can result in a valve obstruction. Also allergy tests, home sleep studies and CT scans may be performed if indicated.
TREATMENT: Customized to the patient’s cause of obstruction. Can be as simple as a regimen of intranasal and oral medications or more complex involving surgical procedures.
ADVANCED SURGICAL TREATMENT: The latest techniques allow for quick recovery, no bruising, more precise repairs, and open breathing immediately after surgery. Technology has improved with the use of 4K camera/monitors and microscopic visualization, laser- guided infrared navigation, and new methods and instrumentation for septum repair, turbinate reduction, valve collapse reconstruction and sinus blockage. Rhinoplasty techniques have also advanced and can often be performed at the same time if there are external nasal cosmetic concerns.
2026 Guide to Spring Break in Monmouth County
BY MAIA FRANCO
While some may be jetting off to Florida for spring break, spring in Monmouth County is actually one of the best times to be here. The crowds haven’t hit the boardwalks, the parks are blooming, and our local gems are waking up from winter hibernation! Whether you are looking to fill a whole week with camps for the kids, or just need a few day-trip ideas to keep the “I’m bored” chorus at bay, here is your guide to a memorable local spring break.
The Great Outdoors
Use this break to explore the parks before the summer heat and the bugs arrive.
• Sandy Hook “Off-Season” Magic: The best time to visit Sandy Hook is right now. The parking is still free (fees start Memorial Day weekend), and the beaches are empty – perfect for shell hunting. Stop by the Marine Academy of Science and Technology (MAST) area; you can often see seals sunning themselves on the rocks near the bay. nps.gov/gate/index.htm , mast.mcvsd.org
• “Splendid Spring Strolls” in the Parks: The Monmouth County Park System is running guided nature walks throughout the season. Check out the trails at Huber Woods (Middletown) or Freneau Woods (Aberdeen). monmouthcountyparks.com
• Historic Allaire Village: While the full summer schedule hasn’t started, the historic village is beautiful for a spring walk. The General Store and Bakery are open Friday to Sunday, making it the perfect place to grab a massive cookie after a hike on the nearby trails. allairevillage.org
Rainy Day Rescues
Spring showers are real. When the weather doesn’t cooperate, have these indoor spots in your back pocket.
• Monmouth Museum (Lincroft): A treasure for younger kids (under 10). The Wonder Wing is a consistent hit, but
check out the Main Gallery, which opens its new 46th Annual Juried Exhibition, “A Time Within A Time,” on March 15. It’s a great way to introduce older kids to art. monmouthmuseum.org
• iPlay America (Freehold): If you have tweens or teens who need to burn energy, the indoor rides and laser tag here are a staple.
iplayamerica.com
• Jenkinson’s Aquarium (Point Pleasant Beach): It’s open year-round, but during spring break, it hosts special feeding times and “perk” events when schools are out. It’s small enough to do in an hour but interesting enough to captivate the kids.
jenkinsons.com/aquarium
“School’s Out” Camps for Working Parents
If you aren’t off work just because the kids are, several local organizations are lifesavers with their “School’s Out” mini-camps.
• Monmouth County Park System: Registration for summer camps starts March 3 (mark your calendar!), but they often have spring break-specific nature or sport half-day camps. Check their “Spring Directory” online. monmouthcountyparks.com
• Camp Coconuts (Middletown): They run “School Recess Camps” specifically during spring break weeks, typically covering the weeks of March 30 and April 6. It’s a mix of martial arts, games, and indoor swimming. www.campcoconuts.com
• The YMCAs: Both the Freehold Family YMCA and Red Bank YMCA traditionally offer “Vacation Day” child care. These fill up fast, so call now to book your spot for the spring break days.
ymcanj.org
Historic Allaire Village
Jenkinson’s Aquarium
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PROFESSIONAL SERVICES GUIDE
Local matters. Whether you are looking for guidance on legal issues, taxes, insurance, and financial planning, or need help with renovations, landscaping, or transportation – you can find the right professionals here in Monmouth County.
This Professional Services Guide lists local businesses ready and willing to assist. Contact them today and start checking items off your “to-do” list.
Slice Merchant Services
Celebrates Six Years in New Jersey With a Special No-Cost Processing Promotion for Local Merchants
Slice Merchant Services, an awardwinning, nationally operational payment processing company headquartered in Holmdel, New Jersey, is proudly celebrating six years of growth and service in the Garden State. Built on a merchant-first philosophy, Slice has long focused on helping small and medium-sized businesses streamline payment acceptance, reduce costs, and operate with confidence.
Since establishing its New Jersey headquarters, Slice has strengthened its commitment to local communities while continuing to serve merchants nationwide. Alongside a thriving national footprint, with more than 20 years in business, the company is deeply invested in supporting the local businesses that drive regional economies. From restaurants and retailers to professional service providers, Slice partners closely with business owners to eliminate the common frustrations associated with payment processing.
To commemorate its sixth year in NJ, Slice has launched a special offer exclusively for New Jersey merchants. Designed for small and medium-sized businesses, the offer provides a no-contract processing option that gives merchants flexibility without long-term commitments. This approach allows business owners to adapt and grow on their own terms, without being locked into restrictive agreements.
Slice is offering New Jersey merchants zero-cost processing, helping businesses significantly reduce — or even eliminate — traditional credit card processing expenses. In addition, merchants receive free payment equipment and free on-site installation, ensuring a seamless transition with minimal disruption. By removing upfront costs and technical barriers, Slice continues its mission of making payment solutions accessible and stress-free.
Service remains a cornerstone of the Slice experience. Merchants enrolled in the program benefit from local customer support, providing peace of mind that assistance is always available. Whether addressing technical concerns, system questions, or general account support, Slice’s around-the-clock service ensures reliability when it matters most.
Beyond business solutions, Slice Merchant Services is deeply committed to giving back and making a meaningful community impact. The company is proud to support local military veterans and active-duty service members through its Swipes for Stripes program. Through this initiative, Slice donates a portion of credit card service fees to Bridging the Gap, an organization dedicated to supporting veterans and their families.
Over more than two decades, Slice Merchant Services has remained focused on transparency, flexibility, and advocacy for business owners. Its combination of no contracts, cost-saving processing options, comprehensive support, and communitydriven initiatives sets it apart in the payments industry.
As Slice celebrates six years in New Jersey and over 20 years nationwide, the company looks ahead with a continued commitment to empowering merchants, strengthening communities, and honoring those who serve. Through innovative solutions and purposedriven programs, Slice Merchant Services remains dedicated to helping businesses — and the people behind them — thrive.
To learn more about Slice, visit Startslice.com or call 973-791-5002
Precision Mirror and Glass Commercial Glass Applications for Modern Businesses
In the world of commercial architecture and design, glass is more than just a material, it’s a statement. From sleek office partitions to striking storefronts, the right glass applications can enhance aesthetics, improve functionality, and even boost energy efficiency. Precision Mirror and Glass specializes in providing high-quality glass solutions tailored to the needs of modern businesses.
The Role of Glass in Commercial Spaces
Glass is a versatile material that offers numerous advantages in commercial settings. It provides natural light, creates a sense of openness, and contributes to a contemporary aesthetic. With advancements in glass technology, businesses can now integrate glass elements that are not only stylish but also durable and energy-efficient.
Commercial Glass Applications by Precision Mirror and Glass
Precision Mirror and Glass offers a wide range of glass solutions designed to meet the needs of various industries. Here are some of the most popular commercial glass applications:
1. Storefront Glass Systems — A business’s storefront is the first impression customers get, making it crucial to have a clean, modern, and inviting appearance. Precision Mirror and Glass designs and installs durable, high-visibility storefront glass systems that enhance curb appeal while providing security and energy efficiency.
2. Glass Office Partitions and Walls — Open-concept office designs are becoming increasingly popular, and glass partitions are an excellent way to create a collaborative work environment while maintaining privacy. Precision Mirror and Glass provides custom glass office walls that reduce noise while allowing natural light to flow through the space.
3. Curtain Walls and Facades — For commercial buildings, curtain walls offer an impressive architectural feature while providing weather resistance and thermal insulation. Precision Mirror and Glass installs high-performance curtain wall systems that enhance both aesthetics and functionality.
4. Glass Railings and Balustrades
— Ideal for staircases, balconies, and mezzanine levels, glass railings add a sleek, modern touch to commercial spaces. These systems provide safety without obstructing views, making them a popular choice for offices, hotels, and retail spaces.
5. Custom Mirrors and Decorative Glass — From upscale hotels to luxury retail stores, custom mirrors and decorative glass elements can elevate interior design. Precision Mirror and Glass offers custom-cut mirrors, frosted glass, and decorative panels to enhance the ambiance of commercial spaces.
6. Safety and Security Glass— For businesses requiring added protection, security glass is an essential invest-
ment. Precision Mirror and Glass provides tempered, laminated, and bullet-resistant glass solutions to safeguard properties against breakins and accidents.
7. Glass Entrances and Doors
— Glass doors create a sophisticated and welcoming entrance while maintaining a modern aesthetic. Whether it’s automatic sliding doors or custom glass swing doors, Precision Mirror and Glass ensures high-quality installations that combine style with durability.
Why Choose Precision Mirror and Glass?
• Expert Craftsmanship — With years of experience in the industry, the company ensures precise installation and superior quality.
• Custom Solutions — Each project is tailored to meet the unique needs of the business.
• Advanced Technology — From energy-efficient glass to high-security solutions, the company utilizes cutting-edge technology.
• Customer Satisfaction — Precision Mirror and Glass is committed to providing exceptional service and high-quality products.
Elevate Your Business with Precision Mirror and Glass
Whether you’re looking to enhance your storefront, modernize your office, or improve security, Precision Mirror and Glass has the expertise to bring your vision to life. With a commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and innovation, their commercial glass applications are designed to meet the highest standards of performance and style.
Precision Mirror and Glass is located at 89 Highway 35 North in Eatontown. For more information call them at 732-389-8175 or visit their website at PrecisionGlassNJ.com
Professional Services Directory
ATTORNEYS
Ansell Grimm & Aaron, PC
1500 Lawrence Ave., Ocean Twp. 732-922-1000
Ansell.law
Broege, Neumann, Fischer & Shaver
25 Abe Vorhees Dr., Manasquan 732-223-8484 x 208 neumannlawyers.com
Drazin & Warshaw
Locations in Red Bank, Hazlet, Brick, and Westfield 732-333-8141
DrazinAndWarshaw.com
Krasner Law
125 Half Mile Rd., Suite 200, Red Bank 866-392-1210
lkrasner.com
LaRocca Hornik Rosen Greenberg & Crupi
252 South St., Freehold 732-403-3693
DivorceLawNJ.com
Lomurro Law
4 Paragon Way #100, Freehold 732-482-9285
LomurroLaw.com
Marcus & Zelman
701 Cookman Ave., Suite 300, Asbury Park 732-695-3282 marcuszelman.com
Go For It Sports Rehab and Fitness opens in Atlantic Highlands
We all know how frustrating recovering from an injury can be: pain, lost progress, and never quite feeling the same afterwards.
Dr. Sam Santos opened Go For It Sports Rehab and Fitness to help clients not only heal their injuries, but also to come back stronger and more resilient through strength training, mobility, and physical therapy. He has helped clients with their goals ranging from unloading the dishwasher without pain to fighting MMA and everything in between.
For more information or to schedule a time to chat about your goals, call 732-639-0516, e-mail sam@goforitsportsrehab. com, or visit goforitsportsrehab.com.
Go For It Sports Rehab and Fitness is located at 25 West Highlands Ave., Atlantic Highlands NJ.
Away Team Property Watch & Concierge
This March marks one year since Away Team Property Watch & Concierge began serving Monmouth County homeowners. Founded by local residents and real estate investors Allison and Patrick Francis, Away Team offers property watch, home maintenance services, and full-service concierge support for both full-time and seasonal homeowners. Known for their hands-on, relationship-driven approach, Away Team has quickly become a trusted partner for clients seeking reliable, personalized care for their properties. From routine property checks to vendor coordination and on-demand assistance, their mission is simple: provide peace of mind and make homeownership easier year-round.
For more information, contact us at 732-305-2554, cnj@awayteamservices.com, or visit www.awayteammonmouth.com.
HERO Local
Name: Sean Dunne
Town of Residency: Long Branch
Occupation: Port Authority Police Officer
Monmouth County resident Sean Dunne recently swam the English Channel in order to raise money for the Anthony M. Varvaro Believe Foundation. He sat down with us to talk about the experience.
Q: What inspired you to swim the English Channel?
A: I have been a competitive swimmer since I was five years old, and from the very beginning, I have always been drawn to the ocean. Over time, that passion grew into a desire to take on the ultimate test of open water endurance: the English Channel, often considered the “Holy Grail” of marathon swimming. It is a brutal and unforgiving endeavor. The water rarely rises above 59 degrees Fahrenheit, relentless currents push you in every direction except the one you want to go, and the Channel is home to thousands of stinging jellyfish — including the notorious Portuguese Man O’ War. It may sound crazy, but these very hardships are exactly what inspired me to attempt the swim from England to France. The sacrifices and struggles of training, along with the physical and mental battle in the water, have a way of stripping life down to what truly matters. The Channel demands everything you have, and in return, it offers perspective, resilience, and a deeper understanding of what it means to endure.
Q: Did you ever feel like giving up? What inspired you to keep going?
A: Absolutely, I felt like giving up more than once. The first moment came right at the start of the swim. It was pitch black at 4 a.m., and I was swimming straight out into a choppy, endless ocean. My goggles began to leak, I couldn’t find a steady breathing rhythm, and the discomfort was immediate and overwhelming. In that moment, knowing I still had more than ten hours ahead of me, I truly wondered if I was in over my head. The second time came about five and a half hours in, when my shoul-
der became so irritated that I could barely lift my arm out of the water. What kept me going through both of those moments was narrowing my focus to what I could control — one stroke, one breath, one minute at a time — and reminding myself that the pain was temporary. I held onto the truth that discomfort passes, but quitting would last far longer.
Q: Tell us about the Anthony M. Varvaro Believe Foundation.
A: The Anthony M. Varvaro Believe Foundation’s mission is to support individuals and families facing unexpected tragedy, while also enhancing the quality of youth sports in Anthony’s hometown. The foundation was established in honor of retired Major League Baseball player and Port Authority Police Officer Anthony Varvaro, who was tragically lost on September 11, 2022, while en route to protect the 9/11 Memorial Service at Ground Zero.
Q: Do you have any other charity events coming up in the future?
A: Nothing concrete. I am on a waiting list to swim the remaining six of the seven worldwide channel swims known as the “Oceans 7.” The channels are the English Channel, North Channel, Molokai Channel, Catalina Channel, Tsugaru Strait, Cook Strait, and the Strait of Gibraltar. I would be honored to raise money for the Anthony M. Varvaro Foundation again, as well as raise money for the local ASPCA animal shelters.
Q: What’s the best way for people to learn more about this swim and PAPD Officer Anthony Varvaro?
A: The best way to learn more about Anthony Varvaro is by visiting the foundation’s website AV38.org. The best way to learn more about the English Channel and watch highlights is on Instagram @adventuredunnes and by searching Sean Dunne English Channel Swim online.
Uniting Monmouth County for Multiple Sclerosis Awareness
BY MAIA FRANCO
For the estimated 1 million people in the United States living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) — and the thousands right here in New Jersey — March is about more than just wearing orange. It is about connection, understanding, and highlighting the world-class resources available right in our own backyard.
Understanding the Unpredictable Disease
Multiple Sclerosis is often called the "snowflake disease" because no two people experience it exactly the same way. It is a chronic autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the protective covering of nerves. For some, this might mean mobility challenges requiring a wheelchair; for others, the symptoms, like fatigue, vision problems, or numbness, are invisible to the naked eye. This unpredictability can be isolating, which is why community awareness is vital.
Finding Care Near You
We are fortunate that some of the region’s leading MS facilities are local, meaning residents don’t always have to travel to New York or Philadelphia for top-tier care.
• The Linda E. Cardinale MS Center (Freehold): Located at CentraState Medical Center, 901 West Main St., Suite 364, this is a hub for comprehensive care. They offer everything from diagnostics to wellness programs, including aquatic therapy and yoga specifically designed for MS patients.
• Jersey Shore University Medical Center (Neptune): Part of the Hackensack Meridian Health network, 1945 NJ-33, its neuroscience institute provides advanced treatment plans and access to clinical trials.
Finding Your Circle of Support
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed, you are not alone. Monmouth County has a robust network of support groups that meet regularly:
• Middletown: The "MS Support Team" meets on the 2nd Tuesday of every month from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. at the Middletown Public Library, 55 New Monmouth Rd. It’s a great place to share experiences and get information in a relaxed setting.
• Neptune: The Multiple Sclerosis Center at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, 1945 NJ-33, hosts several groups, including "MS Connections: Living with MS" on the 2nd Thursday of each month from 5:45 p.m. - 6:45 p.m., and a specific "Men Talk" group on the 3rd Thursday of the month from 5:45 p.m. - 6:45 p.m., recognizing that men often face different challenges when it comes to diagnosis.
• For Caregivers: There is a dedicated Caregiver Support Group that meets at the Cullen Community Center in Hazlet, 1776 Union Ave., on the second Monday of each month from 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Get Involved: 2026 Walk MS Events
One of the most powerful ways to show support is to walk. MS Awareness Month is in March, but the major fundraising walks take place in the spring, and registration is open now. These events are family-friendly and deeply moving. You’ll see teams wearing custom t-shirts that identify someone as living with MS, or walking in honor of a loved one.
Mark Your Calendars:
• Walk MS: Manalapan — Saturday, April 25, Monmouth Battlefield State Park, 16 New Jersey 33 Business.
• Walk MS: Asbury Park — Sunday, May 3, Bradley Park, Sunset Avenue at North Ocean Ave.
Note: Dates are subject to weather. Check the National MS Society website to confirm events.nationalmssociety.org
3 Ways to Help This March
1. Wear Orange: It’s the official color of MS Awareness. Wear an orange ribbon or scarf around town to spark conversation.
2. Offer a Hand: If you know a neighbor with MS, offer specific help — shoveling a driveway, picking up groceries, or just stopping by for a coffee.
3. Learn More: Visit nationalmssociety.org to educate yourself on the latest research and advocacy efforts.
This March, let’s show our neighbors that no one has to face MS on their own.
A Go-To Guide for St. Patrick’s Day Across the County
Monmouth County lights up in green this March as residents from the Highlands to Brielle celebrate their Irish heritage for St. Patrick’s Day.
In 2026, here’s where you can look forward to the best parades, marathons, and more!
Belmar/Lake Como St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Sunday, March 1 @ 1 p.m.
Main St., Lake Como & Belmar Celebrate Belmar/Lake Como’s 53rd St. Patrick’s Day Parade to enjoy a day of floats, pipe bands, and more. belmarparade.com
Highlands Annual Guinness Run
Saturday, March 7 @ 12:30 p.m.
1 Navesink Ave., Atlantic Highlands
Join the Highlands Business Partnership for their 13th Annual Guinness Run, with all runners having access to the post-race party. highlandsnj.com
Asbury Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Saturday, March 8 @ 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Ocean Ave., and 4th Ave., Asbury Park Head down to Asbury Park for their annual parade featuring bands, floats, bag pipers, dancers, scouts, mummers, local leaders and associations, and more. asburyparkstpatricksparade.com
Rumson St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Saturday, March 8 @ 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Allen St., and River Rd., Rumson Celebrate Irish heritage and give back to local organizations that improve Rumson’s community. rumsonstpatricksdayparade.org
Shamrock N’ Roll 5K - Fort Monmouth
Saturday, March 14 @ 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Fort Monmouth, Oceanport
Head to Fort Monmouth for the 2nd Annual Shamrock N’ Roll 5k, with a special live performance from Brian Kirk and The Jirks. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Lunch Break. runsignup.com/Race/NJ/FortMonmouth/ShamrockNRollNJ
Freehold Borough Arts Council
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Sunday, March 15 @ 12 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Main St., Freehold
Visit downtown Freehold for their annual St. Patrick’s Day parade, followed by after parties and Irish-themed specials around town.
downtownfreehold.com
St. Paddy’s 5 Mile Race: Patrick E. Coyne Memorial Race - Freehold
Saturday, March 21 @ 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Michael J. Tighe Park, 65 Georgia Rd., Freehold
Run this 5-mile course through beautiful Tighe Park, supporting the Recreation Special Olympics and Freehold Twp. Recreation Challenger Sports for Special Needs. runsignup.com/Race/NJ/FreeholdFreeholdAreaRunningClubs StPaddys8KaMetric5Miler
Keyport St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Saturday, March 21 @ 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Keyport Bayfront Business Cooperative (KBBC), 70 W. Front St., Keyport
Sponsored by the KBBC, the Keyport St. Patrick’s Day Parade is back!
Visit Keyport St. Patrick’s Parade on Facebook
Highlands St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Saturday, March 21 @ 2 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Highlands Business Partnership, Waterwitch Ave., Highlands
Visit the Highlands for their parade with nearly 100 marching units. highlandsnj.com
A Public Health Pioneer’s Legacy, Still at Work in Freehold
Founded in 1912, a public health movement rooted in Monmouth County continues to influence family care today.
Just off busy Route 33 in Freehold, two healthcare providers carry forward more than a century of public health progress in New Jersey. Families come for primary care, preventive services, counseling, and support programs designed to work together, not in isolation. As Women’s History Month invites reflection on the leaders whose ideas reshaped public life, the work happening in this building offers a living example of how one woman’s vision continues to guide care more than a century later.
That vision belongs to Geraldine Livingston Morgan Thompson, who in 1912 founded the Monmouth County Organization for Social Service with a belief that was radical for its time: that healthcare should be accessible, coordinated, and grounded in the realities of people’s lives. Through decades of growth and evolution, that organization became today’s VNA Health Group, New Jersey’s largest nonprofit provider of home- and community-based care.
“Geraldine Thompson understood something that still drives our work today — that access, dignity, and trust are foundational to good health,” said Christopher Rinn, President & CEO of VNA Health Group. “Her leadership laid the groundwork for an organization that continues to evolve, but never loses sight of why it exists.”
That philosophy is especially visible in Freehold. At 597 Park Avenue, the Children & Family Health Institute anchors a network of VNA Health Group programs designed to simplify what is often a fragmented health-
care system for families. Next door, the Freehold Family Health Center—operated by VNA Health Group affiliate VNACJ Community Health Center, in partnership with CentraState Healthcare System—provides primary and preventive care in a location accessible by foot and public transportation.
“Families don’t experience their needs one program at a time,” said Sahai Cole, Vice President of the Children & Family Health Institute. “Our responsibility is to make care easier to access and
easier to navigate, so people can focus on their health, not the system.”
Today, the Children & Family Health Institute serves tens of thousands of parents and children each year through community programs such as maternal-child health, home visitation, HIV prevention, and cancer detection. While Freehold is one location within a much broader footprint, it functions as a symbolic hub where VNA Health Group’s coordinated model comes together under one roof.
That coordination extends to primary care. As a Federally Qualified Health Center, VNACJ Community Health Center ensures that cost is never a barrier to care, offering services on a sliding scale and serving patients regardless of insurance status. Across its four Monmouth County locations, including Freehold, the Health Center supports over 60,000 patient visits each year.
“Our role is to meet people where they are, whether that’s physically, fi-
nancially, or emotionally,” said Sarina Brady, CEO of VNACJ Community Health Center. “In Freehold, that means being embedded in the community, accessible by bus or on foot, and deeply attuned to the diverse needs of the families we serve.”
While Monmouth County remains central to VNA Health Group’s history and is home to the largest number of local families, the organization now reaches 12 New Jersey counties through direct services and partnerships with leading healthcare networks. Each year, VNA Health Group touches more than 120,000 lives through nearly 1.4 million moments of care, including home health, hospice, palliative care, visiting physician services, and family health programs.
Still, the through-line from 1912 to today is unmistakable.
“Geraldine Thompson believed healthcare should respond to real lives, not rigid systems,” Rinn said. “More than a century later, you can still see that belief at work in Freehold, in the way care is delivered and connected for families every day.”
More than a century after Thompson hired the county’s first public health nurse, families continue to walk through doors built on her belief that health is a public good — and that communities thrive when care is within reach.
Triumph Brewery, 1 Bridge Ave., Red Bank triumphbrewing.com
Zone 1 (Colts Neck/Holmdel Area):
Atlantic Eye
Dearborn Market
Pantano Home
Prima Pizza
Zone 2 (Rumson/Fair Haven Area):
Atlantic Eye
Fair Haven Diner
Family Tavola
Shoprite (Shrewsbury)
Shrewsbury Volkswagen
Zone 3 (Jersey Shore Area):
Asbury Park City Hall
Convention Hall (Asbury Park)
Shoppes at the Arcade (Asbury Park)
Shoprite (Belmar)
Shoprite (Neptune)
Zone 4 (Ocean Township Area):
All Seasons Diner (Eatontown)
Atlantic Eye
Blue Swan Diner (Ocean)
Ocean Township Library
Pop’s Bagels
Zone 5 (Middletown Area):
Atlantic Bagel Co.(Atlantic Highlands)
Circus Liquors (Middletown)
Foodtown (Atlantic Highlands)
Shoprite (Middletown)
Zone 6 (Freehold Area):
Cafe 360
NJ Leaf
Romeo’s Pizza
Shoprite (Freehold)
5 Ways to De-Digitize
BY BILL CLARK
Technology can make many aspects of life easier, but when the internet goes down, it is important to remember that there are ways to live life and have fun without being connected. In fact, recent studies have shown that creating a less internet-reliant life can help reduce stress and improve health and well-being. Whether you are looking to put the phone down for a while, or just want to watch a movie without scrolling through endless streaming service catalogs, we have some tips to help you De-Digitize.
Drop the Needle
Buy a record player and grow your collection. Playlist curation or discovery is great when you are looking for hit after hit. Sometimes falling in love with an album really connects you to the music. There are plenty of stores and swaps to find an old, beloved album or discover a new selection from a favorite artist. Doing so may help you get to know those deep cuts the artist breaks out every so often during a live performance. Check out Unwind Records and Comics on the Asbury Park Boardwalk or Jack’s Music Shoppe in Red Bank for some great places to browse for new vinyl.
Put Pen to Paper
Puzzle books, sketchbooks, or embroidery projects kept in a nearby basket will give you a reason to pick up and engage with something physical. Love The New York Times’ daily puzzle on your phone? Buy a collection of puzzles to dive into at a moment’s notice, then use that pencil (or pen if you are really sure of your answers) to do some sketching. Not an artist? There are plenty of intricate coloring books available for adults as well.
Less Scrolling, More Simmering
Those new trendy recipes you scroll through on TikTok do look tempting. But for the tried-andtrue, buy a cookbook and work your way through the recipes. Those you love will always be there, and the new ones will be available for the next experiment. Make notes, put page marks, and keep it nearby when you are meal planning for the week or getting ready to host friends.
Play It Again
Dust off that old DVD or Blu-ray player. You’ve scrolled through the streaming services, and the algorithm keeps suggesting the same movies. New selections are great, but when you are looking for an old favorite, it’s available for purchase at library sales or second-hand stores. Bring back that old browsing feeling by taking a ride to the library, where a large collection is ready to be lent out – for free – with your card.
Book and Good Company
Join a book club or start your own. Many local bookstores host nights for themed books that anyone is welcome to attend. Some highlight new releases and others bring back classics. Want the option to talk or just be with a group of bibliophiles? The Monmouth County Silent Book Club went viral this summer for their meetups on the beach, but they host events year-round.
Easter Activities
Borough Easter Egg Hunt Belmar
Saturday, March 21 @ 11 a.m.
4th and 5th Ave. Beaches Free!
Township Easter Egg Hunt
Colts Neck
Saturday, March 28 @ 9:30 a.m.
Colts Neck Firehouse #1, 123 County Rd. 537 Free!
Township Easter Egg Hunt
Ocean Township
Saturday, March 28 (Time TBD)
Municipal Gym 1100 West Park Ave. Free!
City Easter Egg Hunt
Long Branch
Sunday, March 29 @ 10 a.m.
West End Park, Brighton Ave. Free!
Painting with Princesses Middletown
Wednesday, April 1 @ 4:30 p.m.
Poricy Park Nature Center, 345 Oak Hill Rd. $12 per person
Institute for Better Living
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)
Small-Town Irish America
Freehold Celebrates St. Patrick’s Day
BY EMMA SYLVIA
Walk down the streets of Freehold Borough in March, and you will notice flags of green, white, and orange proudly waving from homes and businesses across town. Welcome to one of the most Irish towns in the county, and home to the popular Freehold Borough St. Patrick’s Day parade.
Downtown Freehold Executive Director Jeffrey Friedman discusses the evolution of the parade, while the 2026 Grand Marshals share what it’s like to lead this cherished celebration of Irish heritage and local tradition.
Marching Time
In 2011, the Freehold Borough Arts Council was formed, a nonprofit founded entirely by locals with a mission to “INSPIRE, PROVIDE, and CHAMPION the arts to build a greater cultural community.”
One member, former councilman John Newman, wanted to organize a parade in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day.
What followed was the shortest parade in the state – just one block long. The first year, there were only about 15 people in attendance, but after that, the parade began to grow as more of Freehold’s Irish-American population got involved, eager to celebrate their heritage.
In 2017, the parade was upgraded to a full-length parade, spanning all of Main Street – and from there the event started to “blow up,” said Downtown Freehold Executive Director Jeffrey Friedman. The parade has been held every year except during the pandemic in 2020.
This year, the celebration will start at 12 p.m. on March 15 with the official induction of the Grand Marshals, and marchers will step-off at 12:30 p.m. and process down Main Street ending at the Elks Lodge. The parade will be led by
Grand Marshal Glenn Cashion, Vice President and Commissioner of the Monmouth County Historical Association, along with Community Co-Grand Marshals Roger and Rich Kane, brothers and prominent members of the Freehold community.
After an hour or so, the afterparties begin, with a fan-favorite held at the American Hotel, where Eddie Testa and other musical talents will perform. After parties will be held at Freehold Elks Lodge, Freehold Knights of Columbus, the American Hotel, and the American Legion, all packed to the brim with music and merriment – and you guessed it, corned beef platters. Additionally, the town will celebrate “Irish Week,” which includes: Flavor of Freehold on March 12, a unique tour of Freehold’s restaurants, shops, and bars; a pub crawl on March 13; and an Irish Swag Pop-up Shop on March 15 at The Gazebo.
When asked if the community has embraced the parade, Friedman replies: “Absolutely. We have a very large Irish population in town, and people really come out and put on their green and have a great time. People should get there early and enjoy everything that Downtown Freehold has to offer.”
Small Town, Big Heart
For Freehold residents, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade is more than an event, it has become a cherished tradition. Being selected as a Grand Marshal is a local honor and point of pride. “I’m very pleased and honored – no question about it. I never thought [this] would happen,” stated Cashion, the 2026 Grand Marshal. Cashion’s family has roots in Freehold that date back to the mid-19th century. “I wrote two books about my family’s history — Baseball Is In My DNA, a History of Baseball in
Freehold, NJ from 1857-1973 and My Irish Heart, an autobiography lovingly dedicated to my Irish ancestors. It’s really an honor to be able to march as the grand marshal.” Cashion is heavily involved in the twin-city arrangement that Freehold has with the Irish city of Rathangan, connecting his Irish heritage to the town his family has made their own.
2026 Community Co-Grand Marshal Roger Kane, a former Mayor of Freehold, said, “I’ve lived in Freehold all my life, and to get this honor? It’s great. We’re very proud and pleased; we’ve always been in the parade, and to be co-marshals is wonderful.”
Rich Kane elaborated: “When we got the call [to be community grand marshals], it was like, ‘Wow, that’s a hot deal!’ We’ve been in this town our whole life. I call it smalltown America – we grew up here, and we love it very, very much.”
The Kane brothers were originally inspired to give back to their community by their parents, who were active community members and served as their role models.
In the 70s, when Roger Kane served as Mayor, Rich Kane created the town’s recreation program. Rich Kane is ecstatic to recollect how Freehold began celebrating its community and heritage from the 70s until today. “I was watching The Adventures of Tom Sawyer with my family, and in the middle of it, they close up all the stores, go into this huge field, and play games – it was just an old-fashioned day. My daughter said, ‘You should do that for Freehold.’”
The next day, Rich said to his brother: “‘I got an idea. I want to do an old-fashioned town day.’ Roger says, ‘Do you have the money in the budget?’ I said, ‘No, but that’s never stopped us. We’ll raise the money somehow.” With the help of the Borough Arts Council, they did, and this
year Freehold will be celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Freehold Day. Rich Kane shares this story not to reminisce about old times, but to reflect on Freehold and its sense of community. “My point is that we love this town. [When they said], ‘You guys are the community marshals,’ my first thoughts were: ‘Our mother and father would be so proud.’”
When asked if they will ever stop doing community events, Roger replied simply, “When they stop asking.”
With faith in the younger generation to continue these traditions, the Kane brothers, Glenn Cashion, and the rest of the pillars of the Freehold Borough community will continue to celebrate not just the town, but St. Patrick’s Day for many years to come.
To learn more about St. Patrick’s Day in Freehold, visit downtownfreehold.com or freeholdborougharts.org
Freehold Township Gets Moving
Even in the colder months, the Freehold Township Mayor’s Wellness Committee helps residents get their steps in. iPlay America hosted a mile-long walk attended by Deputy Mayor Alan Walker and Committee Member Maureen Fasano. Families stayed warm and made their way through the facility to stay active even in the winter.
Photos courtesy of Freehold Township Facebook page.
Freehold Boro Students Honor
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Students at Freehold Intermediate School attended a breakfast honoring Dr. King. Speakers detailed Dr. King’s life and legacy, inspiring those in attendance with his story.
Photo courtesy of Freehold Borough Schools Instagram.
Student Successes
Danielle Mancione and Nolan McQuagge of Freehold were named to the University of Maryland Global Campus’s Dean List for the Fall 2025 semester. Olivia Raguseo of Freehold was selected as a Resident Assistant at Lebanon Valley College and was named to the Dean’s List for the Fall 2025 semester, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education and Special Education.
Do you want to send us a student success tip? Please e-mail to info@communitymagazinenj.com
KHAL of Freehold
MUFFIN SIMONE of Manalapan
BUBSTER of Freehold
CODY and CASSIUS of Freehold
Four-legged Fun!
BY BILL CLARK
Wild Air Beerworks
Wild Air Beerworks allows well-behaved pups on leashes in and out of their brewery. Sip on a selection of craft beers with literary ties at the tables inside or enjoy the outside patio in the warmer months. 801 Second Ave., Asbury Park. wildairbeer.com
Joe Palaia Park
Ocean Township’s largest park offers three miles worth of trails to tire your pup out. Joe Palaia Park has several loops to extend your time enjoying the natural enclave. The interior of the park is secluded enough that just sitting on a bench with your four-legged friend provides a peaceful place to enjoy the outdoors. Entrances on Whale Pond Rd. www.oceantwp.org
The Grove at Shrewsbury
Leash up your four-legged friend and walk along the shops and restaurants along Route 35 in Shrewsbury. Make sure to check each store’s pet-friendly policy. 597 Route 35, Shrewsbury. thegroveatshrewsbury.com
Bell Works
Explore the selection of activities available at Bell Works. A perfect spot indoors for chilly winter days. Plenty of sunlight gets through for natural lighting as you walk your pup up and down the length of the modern building, and there are plenty of spots to rest. 101 Crawfords Corner Rd., Holmdel. bell.works
The Monmouth County Board of Elections is seeking poll workers. Call us today to find out more about taking part in this important civic responsibility.
To qualify, you must be a registered voter in Monmouth County and attend a poll worker training class.
You will be paid $300 for working a Primary Election or General Election. Call us today to register for a training class!
IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER
April 8 Deadline for Change of Party Affiliation Declaration Forms
April 18 Mailing of Vote-by-Mail Ballots for Primary Election
May 12 Voter Registration Deadline for Primary Election
May 26 Deadline to apply for Vote-by-Mail ballot for Primary Election
May 26-31 Early Voting Period
June 2 Primary Election Day
County Board of Elections
EVENTS CALENDAR March
Trivia Night
Every Monday: March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 @ 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Head to Skinny Flowers Brewing Company for trivia night
The Little Silver Environmental Commission Speaker Series presents this talk about creating a small or container garden with a special focus on utilizing native plants. Free admission. Little Silver Woman’s Club 111 Church St., Little Silver littlesilvernj.gov
Trail Walk
Wednesday, March 11 @ 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Say “farewell” to the frosty weather as you join a Park System Naturalist on a peaceful trail walk at Huber Woods Park. Meet at the Environmental Center parking lot 25 Browns Dock Rd., Middletown monmouthcountyparks.com
Laugh Lab @ Brookdale
Friday, March 13 @ 7 p.m.
A bold new comedy improv series where nothing is scripted and laughs are guaranteed.
Brookdale Performing Arts Center 765 Newman Springs Rd., Lincroft brookdalepac.ludus.com
Paint the Pony
Sunday, March 22 @ 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Join the famous Stone Pony in their family-friendly benefit concert raising awareness for Epilepsy with this Battle of the Bands concert
The Stone Pony 913 Ocean Ave. N, Asbury Park stoneponyonline.com
School of Rock
Thursday, March 26 @ 1 p.m. & 7 p.m.
Watch Oak Hill Academy’s Upper School Play, “School of Rock”
Red Bank Regional Theatre Company presents Legally Blonde Joseph A Russo III Theatre 101 Ridge Rd., Little Silver rbrhsnj.booktix.com
24th Annual Garden State Film Festival
March 26 - 29: Check website for times/locations
A platform for filmmakers and a celebration of cinema at New Jersey’s Premier Independent Film Festival Various locations in Asbury Park gsff.org
Meet the Filmmakers Night
March 26-29 @ 7 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
A preview night for the Garden State Film Festival
Asbury Lanes 209 4th Ave., Asbury Park gsff.org
Ospreys!
Sunday, March 29 @ 1 p.m.
The Little Silver Environmental Commission Speaker Series presents “New Jersey’s Fish Hawk: the Amazing Osprey”. Learn about the ospreys in our area. Bring the whole family! Free admission.
