Greater Long Branch, NJ April 2026

INSIDE: A ONCE-IN-A-GENERATION

ICE BOAT RACE TAKES OVER THE FROZEN NAVESINK RIVER

When It Comes to Your Legacy, Planning is Power

Creating a will or trust isn’t just a legal formality, it’s one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family, your future, and your investments. At Lyons & Associates, we’re here to help you plan wisely, confidently, and with compassion.

Whether you’re preparing for the future, navigating a complex estate, or caring for a loved one with special needs, the choices you make today will shape the security of tomorrow. Our team is here to help you make those decisions with clarity and care, so that your legacy is protected.

Wills, Trusts & Powers of Attorney

We take the time to understand your goals and build a personalized plan that reflects what matters most, your family, your values, and your peace of mind.

Growth on the Coast

Happy April, Greater Long Branch! After a winter like that, we’ve earned this spring.

The longer days and warmer afternoons feel like a reset. Windows open. Energy shifts. And with that shift comes reflection—what are we building, what are we nurturing and where are we choosing to invest our time and energy?

That spirit runs through this issue. Turn to page 16 for Big Moves by the Beach, where Mayor John Pallone shares how Long Branch continues to level up community life—from parks and libraries to arts spaces and accessibility initiatives. Recent projects, including a new community pool, expanded cultural programming and neighborhood park improvements, reflect a city investing in quality of life for residents of all ages. Here, progress is not just about development. It’s about neighbors invested in one another.

On our cover, turn to page 28 for Racing on Ice, a look back at the rare Van Nostrand Cup competition on the frozen Navesink River. In subzero temperatures and punishing winds, sailors gathered in Red Bank for a once-in-a-generation A-Class race hosted by the North Shrewsbury Ice Boat and Yacht Club. More than two decades passed since conditions last aligned. This winter, nature cooperated. Historic ice yachts skimmed across the river while spectators lined the banks, proving that tradition, timing and community still create unforgettable moments along our shoreline.

Turn to page 34 for Redefining MVP: Tim Tebow’s Life Beyond Football. As you’ll see in our publisher photo above, we met Tebow at our City Lifestyle National Conference, and two lessons stayed with me: choose the one person you believe in, and never let success replace growth. That mindset—growth over glory—defines excellence. With our daughters watching how we define success, Jake and I are reminded that the greatest returns rarely show up on a scoreboard.

And because investment can also mean slowing down and savoring something exceptional, turn to page 10 for The Art of Tartare at COVO. Chef Felix Gonzalez brings disciplined technique and ingredient-driven cooking to a refined Beef Tartare that balances richness, brightness and texture. Craftsmanship—whether on the ice, in city planning or in the kitchen—always matters.

Finally, turn to page 22 for our April 2026 Readers’ Choice: Investment Edition winners, and follow @greaterlongbranchcitylifestyle for upcoming categories and community highlights.

Here’s to longer days and smarter investments.

April 2026

PUBLISHER

Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@citylifestyle.com

CO-PUBLISHER

Tiffany Slowinski | tiffany.slowinski@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Carly Mac Manus | carly.macmanus@citylifestyle.com

SALES DIRECTOR

Cary Zackman | cary.zackman@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Kristin Kowalewski | Kristin.Kowalewski@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Jessie Fernandez | jessie.fernandez@citylifestyle.com

Rose Balisi | rose.balisi@citylifestyle.com

INTERNS

Dina D'Aiuto

Riley Burns | riley.burns@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Brian Mullins, Demi Guillory

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jeffrey C. Brown, Brian Mullins, Thomas DiOrio, Andrea Phox, Chatter Creative, David Surks, Patty O'Neil, The Wood Joint

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

Proverbs 3:5-6

A NEW YOU - BUILT FOR LIFE

Lasting change starts with understanding you and your goals. At nuYu, every journey begins with a simple conversation to uncover your unique needs and we help you create an individualized fitness and nutrition plan designed to do one thing - achieve success.

No charge. No commitment. No Hassle. Just expert coaching, personalized attention, and high-quality support that delivers real, lasting results. Everyone deserves to live their best life.

Real results start with real coaching. Book your FREE consultation and let’s build a stronger, healthier you for life!

Special

Memberships

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1—2: Our Greater Long Branch City Lifestyle team attended the Asbury Park Little League Breakfast. 3: 100th day of school celebrated in Rumson!

4: Braving brutal cold and wind, a local resident proposed waterfront, unforgettable winter moment captured forever by Juliana Leschinsky.

5: Congratulations to Amanda Caldwell, who was officially sworn in as Long Branch’s City Clerk. 6—7: Behind the scenes of our Partners at Lyons & Associates filming new videos highlighting teamwork, passion and attorneys.

The Art of Tartare

A refined balance of richness, brightness, and texture at Covo.

Covo Beef Tartare

A refined take on a classic, Covo’s Beef Tartare balances richness and brightness in every bite. Hand-diced beef is layered with charred red onion marmalade and horseradish crema, then finished with fresh chives, fried capers, cured egg yolk, and pickled mustard seeds for texture and depth.

Ingredients (Per Serving)

• 2½ ounces hand-diced beef

• 1 teaspoon charred red onion marmalade

• 1 tablespoon horseradish crema

• 1 teaspoon fresh chives

• 1 teaspoon pickled mustard seeds

• 5 fried capers

• Grated cured egg yolk, to finish

Preparation

1. Prepare the base: Using a ring mold, gently press the hand-diced beef into an even layer at the center of a chilled plate. Avoid overworking the meat to maintain its delicate texture.

2. Layer the flavor: Spoon the charred red onion marmalade over the top of the beef, spreading lightly to create a thin, even layer.

3. Add creaminess: Place a generous dollop of horseradish crema on top or alongside the tartare for balance and brightness.

4. Finish with texture: Sprinkle fresh chives and pickled mustard seeds evenly over the top. Garnish with fried capers for a crisp, briny contrast. 5. Final touch: Grate cured egg yolk over the tartare just before serving for added richness and depth.

Serve immediately with toasted crostini or house-made crisps.

About Chef Felix Gonzalez

Felix Gonzalez, a New Jersey native, brings a disciplined, ingredient-driven approach to Italian cooking grounded in tradition and craftsmanship.

Trained at The Italian Culinary Academy in Colorno, Italy, and shaped by years with the Charlie Palmer Group in Manhattan, his background blends classical technique with steakhouse precision. Most recently, he served as Chef de Cuisine for Heritage Hospitality Group. At COVO, his cooking centers on scratch preparation, handmade pasta, prime meats, and trusted relationships with local New Jersey farms, simple, honest food executed with intention.

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Experience as an Asset

Why Jeffrey C. Brown Takes the Long View on Investing

In investment markets defined by cycles, volatility and shifting demand, experience is often the difference between speculation and strategy. For commercial real estate broker and investor adviser Jeffrey C. Brown, that experience spans more than four decades across multiple asset classes, economic downturns and expansion periods.

Brown, director of commercial real estate at EXIT Realty East Coast CRE in West Long Branch, began his real estate career in 1978. Since then, he has worked through high-interest-rate eras, recessions, stock market crashes and recovery cycles—building a track record centered on long-term value and operational fundamentals.

“I’ve been through every type of market,” Brown explains. “High rates, low rates, crashes and booms. The constants are discipline and vision.”

He entered the field through an unconventional path. In his early 20s, Brown operated an advertising agency in Brooklyn. A professional connection with a real estate attorney led to his first commercial property transaction and ultimately to obtaining his license. What began as a single deal developed into a career focused on commercial assets and investor representation.

Over the decades, Brown has represented industrial, retail and distribution users across the New York and New Jersey markets. He later founded his own firm and secured more than half a million square feet of industrial and office space for major beverage distribution operations, including Snapple’s distributor during its high-growth years.

According to Brown, successful investing starts with defining the client’s objective—not chasing trends.

“Every strategy depends on the investor’s goal,” he notes. “Are they looking for short-term gain, longterm hold, renovation upside or steady income? The plan changes with the purpose.”

According to Brown, successful investing starts with defining the client’s objective— not chasing trends.

He emphasizes that market stress often creates opportunity. During high-interest-rate environments, he observes, mortgage defaults and distressed sales tend to increase—creating entry points for well-capitalized buyers.

“When rates rise, some owners can’t carry their debt,” Brown shares. “That’s when distressed and bank-owned properties come into play. Investors who are prepared can step in.”

His outlook for the commercial sector is selective but optimistic. Brown predicts continued strength in retail and certain categories of commercial property, particularly where consumer behavior is shifting back toward physical presence.

“Retail has a strong future,” he notes. “There is a return to brick-and-mortar in many categories.”

Office space, however, remains more complex. He points to pandemic-era remote work patterns as a lasting disruptor, though he sees adaptive reuse as a growing solution.

“Office is difficult unless it’s prime location—or unless you convert it,” Brown explains. “Conversion to residential is one of the biggest opportunities right now.”

He is currently involved in evaluating office-to-residential conversion opportunities in the region, including partially vacant multi-story buildings near major corporate corridors. Demand for flexible residential rentals—daily, weekly and monthly—continues to grow, he adds, particularly near transportation and employment hubs.

Brown also ties his long-term optimism to a basic supply principle.

“Real estate is finite,” he explains. “They’re not making more land. Demand grows, supply doesn’t.”

Beyond brokerage and advisory work, Brown brings a deep operations background. He previously served as vice president of operations for a major beverage distribution company, overseeing hundreds of employees, large facilities, fleet operations and real estate footprints across multiple states. That experience, he notes, sharpened his understanding of how space decisions affect business performance.

“Operations teaches you what space really needs to do,” he says. “Not just what it looks like on paper.”

In addition to his real estate and operations career, Brown is also an author. He has written two books available on Amazon, including his debut action-adventure novel Handicaptive: Revenge and Redemption . The book centers on a fictional protagonist seeking justice after a personal tragedy tied to abuse of disabled parking access, blending suspense themes with social accountability.

Writing, Brown notes, draws on the same discipline as investing—structure, patience and clarity of outcome.

“You build a story the way you build a deal,” he shares. “You need a framework and a direction.”

He holds an MBA from New York University and additional post-graduate credentials in construction, development and finance. His certifications include OSHA training, regulatory compliance programs and a New Jersey real estate license. He is also a notary public and a U.S. Navy veteran.

Today, most of his brokerage activity is concentrated in New Jersey, though he remains licensed in both New York and New Jersey. His client base includes investors, owner-users and commercial tenants seeking acquisition, leasing or repositioning strategy.

Brown advises investors to focus less on headlines and more on fundamentals.

“Trust long-term vision,” he says. “If you understand value, timing matters less than discipline.”

For readers evaluating where and how to invest—particularly in commercial real estate—Brown frames experience as a measurable asset.

“I’ve seen the cycles repeat,” he adds. “Patterns change in detail—but not in principle.”

Jeffrey C. Brown

Licensed Salesperson

Commercial Real Estate & Investment Advisory

EXIT Realty East Coast — Commercial Division Director, Commercial Division 964 Broadway, West Long Branch, NJ 07764 www.exitrealtyeccre.com

Jeff Brown Enterprises, LLC

Construction Consultant www.jeffbrownenterprises.net

Direct: 732-522-0437

Email: jbe732@gmail.com

How Long Branch Is Leveling Up Community Life

BIG MOVES BY THE BEACH

ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAL DIMICELI

In Long Branch, community investment shows up in everyday places—parks, libraries, small businesses, arts spaces and yearround programs designed to serve residents of all ages.

Mayor John Pallone says what makes the city stand out is its diversity, history and strong neighborhood spirit. With more than four miles of coastline and a wide mix of cultures and businesses, Long Branch blends destination appeal with a close-knit community feel.

“What I enjoy most about serving Long Branch is the opportunity to work alongside residents, businesses, volunteers and municipal employees who truly care about this city,” Pallone says. “People here are invested in their neighborhoods and in each other.”

In recent years, the city completed a series of community-focused projects aimed at expanding access and quality of life. Long Branch opened its first community pool, offering swim lessons, safety training and family programming. The Long Branch Arts & Cultural Center expanded with a new gallery wing, increasing exhibition space and public events. The Long Branch Fire & History Museum opened in a restored firehouse, preserving local history while creating a new gathering place.

Library services also grew through a major renovation of the main Carnegie-era branch and restoration of the Elberon

branch, adding more year-round programs and community space. Five parks—including Jackson Woods and Liberty Street Park—bring additional recreation and event locations across the city. Long Branch also launched accessibility initiatives, including multiple fully accessible beaches and a Disability Resource Fair.

Economic development efforts focus on both neighborhood businesses and major regional projects. Through the city’s UEZ program and community development team, entrepreneurs receive support through grants, low-interest loans and technical assistance. The Shop Long Branch initiative encourages residents to support local merchants and restaurants.

“Our small businesses are the heartbeat of Long Branch,” Pallone says. “When they grow and succeed, our entire city benefits.”

Projects ahead include construction of a new ocean pier, development of a health, wellness and technology center with a fouracre health park and expanded cultural programming tied to the nation’s 250th anniversary.

“Long Branch’s strength has always been its people,” Pallone says. “We are building a city of opportunity, access and community for the next generation.”

WHERE HEALTH MEETS REAL LIFE

ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY THOMAS DIORIO

For many people, improving health is not about chasing quick fixes—it’s about finding an approach that fits real life. That belief is central to nuYu, a coaching-based fitness and wellness studio focused on individualized plans, long-term accountability and sustainable progress.

At nuYu, health is not treated as a one-size-fits-all formula. Each client experience begins with a detailed consultation to understand personal goals, daily routines, challenges and strengths. That information forms the foundation of a customized plan that reflects how each individual lives, works and moves.

Rather than prescribing a rigid program, nuYu’s coaching model is built on collaboration.

“Good coaching means asking the right questions— and never stopping,” owner and coach Tom DiOrio said. “Every decision always comes back to the client and their goals—the program design, the schedule, even the exercise selection. Everything should serve a purpose, and that purpose should be relevant to the client’s needs.”

Coaches work with clients to create strategies that are realistic and adaptable, recognizing that health is dynamic and evolves alongside lifestyle changes, schedules and responsibilities.

Clients who thrive at nuYu tend to share a common mindset. They are not looking for shortcuts or trends. Instead, they want clarity, consistency and guidance they can trust. Accountability plays a central role, with coaches staying connected, tracking progress and making adjustments as needed to keep momentum moving forward—even during difficult or busy weeks.

Support at nuYu extends well beyond workouts. Coaching addresses movement quality, habit-building, nutrition awareness and mindset, recognizing that long-term health is shaped by daily decisions, not isolated sessions. Clients are guided toward understanding not only what to do, but why it matters and how to maintain it over time.

As bodies change and confidence grows, plans evolve. Coaches regularly reassess goals and strategies to ensure progress continues without burnout or plateaus. That flexibility allows clients to build strength, mobility and resilience at a pace that feels achievable.

nuYu’s team-based approach sets it apart from traditional training models. Each client works closely with a primary coach who provides day-to-day guidance and accountability, while DiOrio offers high-level oversight and quarterly goal reviews. This layered system ensures both personal attention and long-term vision.

DiOrio brings a diverse background to his role, including experience as a Marine, firefighter and EMT, along with advanced education in nutrition and health sciences. His leadership helps shape nuYu’s coaching philosophy—grounded in discipline, education and empowerment rather than pressure or intimidation.

The studio’s mission centers on accessibility. nuYu is designed for real people—not just athletes or fitness professionals—who are willing to take the first step toward better health. The emphasis is on progress over perfection, learning over shame and confidence over comparison.

“EVERYTHING

SHOULD SERVE A PURPOSE, AND THAT

purpose

SHOULD BE relevant TO THE CLIENT’S needs .” —THOMAS DIORIO

For those unsure where to begin, nuYu offers complimentary new-client consultations. These sessions include goal setting, a detailed health history review, body composition analysis and the development of customized exercise and nutrition plans. The consultations are offered without obligation, reflecting nuYu’s belief that education and information should be accessible.

Many clients arrive feeling uncertain or hesitant, unsure whether they are “ready” to begin. According to nuYu’s coaches, that feeling is common—and often the biggest hurdle. The studio’s role is to remove barriers, provide clarity and create a supportive environment where clients feel empowered to start.

At nuYu, transformation is viewed as a process, not a moment. Strength is built gradually. Habits are formed intentionally. Confidence grows through consistency and understanding.

Ultimately, nuYu’s goal is simple: to help people feel stronger, move better and live with greater confidence. For those ready to begin a new chapter in their health journey, it often starts with one conversation— and the decision to take that first step.

For more information, visit nuyufit.com

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READERS’ CHOICE

INVESTMENT EDITION—APRIL 2026

From the Jersey Shore to bustling commercial hubs, Greater Long Branch residents know the importance of making smart financial choices and partnering with trusted professionals. This month’s Readers’ Choice: Investment Edition highlights the banks, advisors and service providers locals rely on most to manage, grow and protect their wealth. Each winner was selected entirely by reader vote—real recommendations based on firsthand experience. The results reflect not only expertise, but transparency, reliability and the strong relationships these businesses have built within the community.

With that, we’re proud to announce the April 2026 Readers’ Choice winners for Greater Long Branch.

BEST BANK/CREDIT UNION

OceanFirst Bank

Voters highlighted responsive staff and comprehensive financial solutions for both personal and business needs. oceanfirstbank.com | (732) 787-6982

BEST COWORKING SPACE

coLab at Bell Works

coLab at Bell Works was praised for its modern, collaborative environment and flexible office solutions. bellworks.com | (732) 415-7193

BEST CAR DEALERSHIP

V&S Auto Brokers

Readers recognized V&S Auto Brokers for a personalized buying experience and knowledgeable service. vandsautobrokers.com | (732) 571-1800

BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR

GRANTvest Financial Group

GRANTvest Financial Group earned top marks for strategic financial planning and client-focused investment guidance. grantvest.com | (877) 651-8949

BEST ACCOUNTANT

Machese Group

Voters highlighted accuracy, responsiveness and dependable service for both individuals and businesses. tmgcpa.net | (201) 783-8375

GUIDANCE YOU CAN TRUST

Greater Long Branch Readers’ Choice winners are the local experts residents trust to guide financial decisions. From banking to investing and accounting, they help the community grow, manage, and protect wealth with care and personalized attention. Follow us for upcoming categories and voting at @GreaterlongBranchCityLifestyle.

BUILT ON GRIT and Generations

In an industry increasingly dominated by national corporations, DeLisa Waste Services stands out as a multigenerational, locally owned company still operating where its roots began along the Jersey Shore.

Today, the business is led by CEO Thomas DeLisa II, continuing a family legacy in waste services that stretches back nearly a century. From municipal contracts to container operations and recycling services, the company has evolved through ownership shifts, redevelopment cycles and economic swings— while maintaining its local identity.

“Our family has been in the garbage business close to 100 years between my father and my uncles,” DeLisa says. “Long Branch and the Shore towns were some of the earliest and biggest contracts.”

Early operations covered multiple coastal communities, including Long Branch, Ocean Township and neighboring municipalities. The family also operated a landfill on the property where Monmouth Square Mall now stands—a testament to how closely the company’s history aligns with regional growth.

After graduating from Red Bank Catholic in 1975, DeLisa entered the family business, working alongside his father. Over time, operations expanded, strengthening municipal relationships throughout Monmouth County.

“My father was an excellent teacher,” DeLisa recalls. “He was very hard on me— but he knew the business and he worked extremely hard.”

By the late 1990s, the company had grown enough to attract national buyers. In 1999, the family sold to Republic Services, one of the country’s largest waste firms, including a five-year noncompete that temporarily kept DeLisa out of the sector.

Rather than step away entirely, he launched DeLisa Demolition Inc., handling teardown and site-clearing projects across Monmouth and Ocean counties.

“We were tearing down houses and buildings throughout the area, especially on the north end of Long Branch,” he says. That period coincided with significant redevelopment along the waterfront, where older structures made way for new residential and mixed-use construction.

When the noncompete ended in 2004, DeLisa returned to waste and recycling, rebuilding operations independently. One of the first milestones was securing back a key municipal contract in Sea Bright, followed by additional towns and expanded container services.

Today, DeLisa Waste Services holds 11 municipal contracts and offers front-end loader service for restaurants, bars, apartments and commercial properties, along with roll-off containers and sidearm collection services. Municipal work remains the backbone, with contracts typically running three years, often renewed to five.

“As long as we’re doing a good job, towns renew,” DeLisa says. “We’ve never had a town not renew through the full term.”

daughter manage day-to-day operations alongside senior managers.

“My oldest son, Thomas DeLisa III, along with his brother and sister, are running the business with our team,” he says. “Having trusted people around you is what makes growth possible.”

That depth of leadership proved critical through economic downturns and the pandemic, when service logistics and staffing stability were essential for municipalities and commercial accounts.

“We keep growing, keep serving towns well and keep relationships strong. That’s what keeps you here long-term.”

—  Thomas DeLisa II

The company’s local focus sets it apart from national providers. Instead of centralized call centers, customer communication is handled on-site—often by long-tenured staff and family leadership. DeLisa’s two sons and

Over the years, the family has declined multiple acquisition offers, choosing to remain independent. “The DeLisa name has been tied to waste services along the Shore for generations,” DeLisa says. “Maintaining that presence carries significance beyond balance sheets.”

Looking ahead, the company remains focused on steady expansion, contract performance and responsive service—not rapid consolidation.

“We keep growing, keep serving towns well and keep relationships strong,” DeLisa says. “That’s what keeps you here long-term.”

DELISA WASTE SERVICES

Website: delisawasteservices.com

Address: 101 Commerce Dr., Tinton Falls, NJ 07753

Phone: (732) 988-2525

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RACING ON ICE

VAN NOSTRAND CUP RETURNS TO THE FROZEN NAVESINK RIVER, REVIVING A STORIED WINTER TRADITION

In subzero temperatures and wind gusts exceeding 45 miles per hour, history unfolded on the frozen Navesink River.

On Monday, Feb. 9, experienced ice boat sailors gathered in Red Bank to compete for the Van Nostrand Cup, one of the most coveted trophies in the sport of ice boating. Hosted by the North Shrewsbury Ice Boat and Yacht Club, the rare A-Class race drew a challenger fleet from the Hudson River Ice Yacht Club in New York for a showdown entirely dependent on precise winter conditions.

The event requires a narrow window to proceed: at least nine inches of solid ice over salt water, steady winds between 15 and 20 knots, and skippers capable of performing in below-zero temperatures. Club officials say the region has waited since 2003 for the right combination. This year, nature aligned. Local legend holds that in the 1960s, the township even sent garbage trucks fitted with plows onto the ice to help clear the river when conditions allowed winter races.

Ice boats, wind-powered vessels mounted on steel runners, skimmed across the frozen river with striking speed and grace. Each vessel carries a class designation marked by a letter. DN boats are small and extremely fast, capable of reaching speeds near 75 mph in ideal conditions with no motor and no brakes. N and L classes are midsize. The Van Nostrand competition, however, is reserved for the larger and more historic A-Class yachts.

ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER

David R. Surks is a New Jersey photographer and owner of Creative Eye Photography. Surks is known for capturing the region’s landscapes, community events and unique moments across New Jersey. He brings a deep local perspective to his work, documenting the people and places that define the area.

Follow his photography on Instagram @surksphoto

Some of the A-Class boats racing this year were more than 100 years old. Known among sailors as the “majestic ladies” of the sport, they typically run closer to 20 mph but require exceptional skill to maneuver. Pilots steer from a low, reclined position with only inches separating their bodies from the ice, where a sudden miscalculation can lead to catastrophe.

After final scoring review, the Van Nostrand Cup was awarded to the North Hudson River Ice Yacht Club. The winning vessel, Ariel, was skippered by Luke Lawrence and Max Lopez. North Shrewsbury Ice Boat and Yacht Club finished as runner-up.

Despite brutal wind chill, spectators gathered along the riverbanks to witness what many described as a once-in-a-generation event. The frozen Navesink transformed into a dramatic racecourse, blending heritage sport and winter spectacle.

Photographer David R. Surks documented the race across multiple days of shifting conditions. After earlier postponements because of deteriorating weather, race officials called the start at 9 a.m. when conditions stabilized.

“It was grueling,” Surks says, noting two days of subzero exposure and punishing wind while shooting on the ice, but when the weather window opened, history was made.

For a brief winter morning, Red Bank became the center of the ice boating world, proof that when wind, ice and experience come together, a century-old sport still delivers edge-of-your-seat competition.

Your Health Begins With Your Smile

How preventive dentistry protects more than just your teeth

When people think about investing, they often picture portfolios, property or retirement accounts. Rarely do they think about their smile. But according to Dr. Ravi Shah, investing in your oral health may be one of the most important long-term decisions you can make.

Shah, a New Jersey native who took over Ocean Shore Dentistry—a long-standing general dentistry practice—two and a half years ago, saw dentistry as more than routine cleanings or cosmetic upgrades. He viewed it as preventive medicine.

“Oral health is connected in a lot of ways to other parts of your body,” Shah says. “If patients viewed dental care through a medical lens instead of just a cosmetic one, they would prioritize it very differently.”

Shah earned his undergraduate degree from Rutgers University before completing dental school at the University of Connecticut. He later returned to New Jersey for residency during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by an implant fellowship in the Midwest. After years of advanced training and practicing out of state, he returned home to serve the community he grew up near.

Since taking over the practice from a retiring physician, Shah has modernized the office with updated technology and a renewed focus on comprehensive care. But he is deliberate about which innovations he adopts.

ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHATTER CREATIVE

“New technology is important,” he says, “but it has to truly benefit patients. It is not just about having the newest machine—it is about how it improves care.”

One advancement he is currently evaluating enhances early oral cancer detection, identifying abnormalities that may not be visible to the naked eye. For Shah, that kind of investment reflects the broader shift happening in dentistry—one that links oral health to systemic health.

Research increasingly shows connections between gum inflammation and conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and even neurodegenerative disorders. Shah notes that inflammation in the gums can contribute to broader inflammatory responses in the body. In some cases, improving oral health has been shown to help reduce A1C levels in patients with diabetes.

“Something as simple as taking care of your teeth can have ripple effects throughout your body,” he says.

That philosophy reframes routine cleanings as preventive strategy rather than obligation.

For patients unsure where to begin, Shah emphasizes consistency over complexity. Twice-yearly cleanings remain foundational, but daily habits matter just as much. He recommends electric toothbrushes for patients who rush through brushing, water flossers for those who struggle with traditional floss and customized care plans for individuals prone to cavities or dry mouth.

“There is not one universal routine,” he says. “Knowing where you stand and creating a plan specific to you is what prevents problems long term.”

As he continues growing the practice, Shah hopes to deepen community partnerships—from business networking groups to local health and wellness expos—and expand education around how oral health intersects with recovery, chronic illness and overall well-being.

Because in the end, investing in your smile is not about aesthetics alone. It is about protecting the systems that allow you to live fully— today and decades from now.

For more information, visit myoceandentist.com

Redefining MVP: TIM TEBOW’S LIFE BEYOND FOOTBALL

An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.

Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.

A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.

Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?

A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.

Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?

A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.

Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?

A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.

“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”

Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?

A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”

Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.

This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

BUILT BY HAND, BUILT WITH HEART

ARTICLE BY DEMI GUILLORY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE WOOD JOINT

Inside The Wood Joint, where generations gather to craft skill, confidence and connection

School is always in session at The Wood Joint in Long Branch, where learning has no expiration date and people of all ages explore their artistic abilities through woodworking.

The nonprofit organization has preserved woodworking as an intergenerational craft since August 2016, offering hands-on classes for every skill level. Students train in a fully equipped workshop alongside experienced instructors, learning both technique and tradition.

THE BLUEPRINT

Bruce Hogan, founder and lead instructor, said the idea for the space began after he answered an advertisement from the Monmouth County Vocational School District.

“Originally, it was to substitute teach,” Hogan recalled. “When I started substitute teaching, a night class was available, so they offered it to me. It was carpentry, but I changed it to cabinetmaking.”

Hogan, who grew up in Southern California, discovered his passion for woodworking while building a boat with his father in the family’s backyard. His interest deepened through an apprenticeship, eventually leading to a career in cabinetry and furniture design that continued after he moved east.

His cabinetmaking class quickly gained popularity. What began as a 10-week course offered twice a year on Wednesdays soon expanded.

“There were so many people coming in,” Hogan said. “At one point, there were 21 people in the class.”

The first two sessions had seven and 10 students, respectively. As demand grew, the single weekly class expanded to four nights.

A VISION BECOMES REALITY

Before opening The Wood Joint, Hogan often joked about starting his own shop. When interest continued to rise and the opportunity presented itself, he turned the idea into reality in 2015. By the following year, the

space was complete, and Monmouth County’s School of Woodworking officially opened its doors.

Classes are designed to be inclusive, welcoming beginners and advanced students alike.

“The variety of people who come in for classes is unbelievable,” said Gary Chasser, an instructor who also serves as treasurer and board member. Chasser was once one of Hogan’s students through the vocational school district.

“From people who are 12 years old to people who are 75 or 80, we have retired surgeons and homemakers,” he said.

For many, The Wood Joint is their first experience in a workshop.

“Most people, when they come in, they have never even looked at a shop, but they want to try and build,” Hogan said. He believes the innate desire to create draws people through the doors.

“Classes automatically fill up,” Hogan said. “There’s always new people signing up.”

Introductory courses cover the fundamentals of woodworking. By the end, students complete a tool tote and a small gift box. In addition to three monthly introductory classes, the workshop offers a Saturday session from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., during which participants build the gift box in a single day.

CONFIDENCE AS STRONG AS WOOD

With continued instruction, projects grow more ambitious. Tool totes and gift boxes give way to bookcases, file boxes, side tables, chairs and even floating mahjong tables. Whether it is a Girl Scout troop or a group of friends gathering around a workbench, The Wood Joint welcomes all.

For Hogan, the most rewarding moment comes at the end of each project.

“The look in people’s eyes when they finish,” he said. “They did it. And it’s this gorgeous little box—their box— that they took from a stick of wood to the finished project.”

SPECIAL OFFER FOR READERS

Greater Long Branch City Lifestyle readers receive 10% off an introductory class.

Bring your copy of this issue to redeem the discount. Your Move, Your Team The Katz Team

THE WOOD JOINT NJ INC.

400 Wharburton Place, Long Branch, NJ 07740

908-601-1424

thewoodjointnj.com

O 732.387.3807

M 732.859.8505

chris.katz@elliman.com

Todd Katz Salesperson

O 732.387.3807

M 732.768.3329

todd.katz@elliman.com

803 River Road, Fair Haven, NJ 07704

APRIL 2026

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

APRIL 11TH

Bell Works Fresh Market

Opening Weekend

Bell Works 101 Crawfords Corner Road, Holmdel, NJ 07733 | 11:00 AM

Bell Works opens its spring market season with local food vendors, artisan goods and indoor-outdoor shopping at the historic Bell Labs complex. Event details available at bell.works/events .

APRIL 13TH

Intro to Qigong & Tai Chi

West Long Branch Community Center Ballroom A, 116 Locust Avenue, West Long Branch 10:00 AM

Learn gentle movement and breathwork at a free session held at Monmouth County Library-West Long Branch Public Library. Confirm details on local event calendars. For more information visit flowingqigong.com.

APRIL 17TH

Count Basie Center

Presents: Touring Concert

Count Basie Center for the Arts 99 Monmouth St., Red Bank, NJ 07701 | 7:30 PM

A nationally touring artist performs at one of New Jersey’s premier music venues for an evening of live entertainment. Ticket information available at thebasie.org.

APRIL 18TH

Asbury Park Spring Bazaar

Asbury Park Boardwalk 1300 Ocean Ave. N, Asbury Park, NJ 07712 11:00 AM

This seasonal outdoor market features handmade goods, vintage finds, live music and food vendors, creating a lively boardwalk shopping experience. Details available at asburyparkbazaar.com

APRIL 19TH

Monmouth County Earth Day Celebration

Thompson Park 805 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft, NJ 07738 10:00 AM

Celebrate Earth Day with nature demonstrations, interactive exhibits, food trucks and family activities throughout the park. Schedule details available at monmouthcountyparks.com

APRIL 25TH

Annual Kites at the Pier Festival Pier Village, Long Branch, NJ 07740 12:00 PM

Colorful kites fill the sky during this family-friendly spring festival. The event features professional kite flyers, hands-on activities for children and oceanfront entertainment. Details available at piervillage.com

INVESTING IN YOUR LONGEVITY

As this month’s theme centers on investing, most conversations begin with retirement accounts and financial security. But there is another form of capital that deserves equal attention: your ability to move, function and live independently as you age. What if the most important investment you make today is not in a portfolio, but in your longevity?

When people think about health, they often focus on lab reports such as cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure. While those metrics matter, research increasingly shows that functional fitness, how well you move, balance, carry and sustain effort, may be an even stronger predictor of longevity and mortality.

A review published in Frontiers in Physiology found that muscle strength, balance, mobility and cardiorespiratory fitness are independently associated with survival across the lifespan. Additional studies in BMJ Open and the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology reinforce that measures such as gait speed, grip strength and chair-rise ability strongly predict falls, disability, cardiovascular events and early death. Physical function is not just a wellness metric. It is a long-term investment indicator.

Longevity physician Dr. Peter Attia summarizes it well: The goal is not simply to live longer, but to preserve physical function for as long as possible.

FUNCTIONAL RISK ASSESSMENT

Simple tests reveal powerful insights. The Timed Up and Go test measures how long it takes to stand from a chair, walk a short distance and return. Slower times are associated with higher fall risk, hospitalization and mortality. Even small declines can signal early functional changes.

Walking speed, often called gait velocity, is so predictive it is considered a vital sign. Slower gait speed is linked to increased mortality regardless of age. Think of it as a market index for physical health. When it declines, it reflects stress across multiple systems.

The 30-second sit-to-stand test measures lower-body strength, a foundational asset for independence. Lower scores predict frailty and falls, while stronger performance correlates with longer life. Like compound interest, strength built over time delivers lasting returns.

Six Fitness Tests That Reveal How Long— and How Well—You’re Likely to Live

Balance testing plays a similar role. Impaired balance increases the risk of fractures and disability, the equivalent of sudden financial losses that disrupt long-term stability.

Grip strength and loaded carries assess realworld robustness. Low strength is strongly linked to cardiovascular disease and early death, even after accounting for other risk factors.

Finally, VO₂ max, a measure of aerobic capacity, remains one of the strongest predictors of lifespan. Higher cardiovascular fitness significantly lowers mortality risk at every age.

BUILDING YOUR LONGEVITY PORTFOLIO

Just as financial portfolios require diversification, longevity depends on investing across multiple domains: strength, balance, mobility and endurance. These functional measures serve as early warning indicators, guiding action before decline occurs.

While we cannot control the markets, we can invest daily in our physical resilience. The dividends are not just added years, but stronger, more capable ones.

Because true wealth is the ability to live fully, independently and well.

ABOUT BRIAN MULLINS

Brian Mullins, MS, PT, earned his master’s degree and Certificate of Physical Therapy from Duke University and a bachelor’s in biology with a specialization in athletic training from Rowan University. With more than 30 years’ experience, he treats athletes of all ages, integrating advanced biomechanical assessment technology developed by the Movement Performance Institute in California.