Greater Long Branch, NJ December 2025

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The Most Wonderful (and Exhausting) Time of the Year

Happy December, Greater Long Branch!

I’ve officially reached that point in the parenting journey where the holiday magic is… partially outsourced. For years, my husband was the chief elf wrangler in our house—moving “Alejandro,” our mischievous Elf on the Shelf, from one creative hiding spot to another each night. But as our family grew, so did the elf population. What started as one spritely visitor has now become a full-blown elf family, and let me tell you—the fun lasts about three nights before it turns into a logistical nightmare.

Thankfully, our oldest daughter (now nearly 17!) has taken over some of the elf duties. She’s far more creative than he is (and bonus points—she never forgets to move them). Last year, the elves spent the night ziplining from the kitchen to the Christmas tree—complete with ribbon, tape and just enough of a mess to leave me only slightly annoyed. I’ll admit, it was impressive. One of my favorite traditions, though, comes on Christmas Eve, when the elves leave behind a box filled with matching family pajamas before heading back to the North Pole.

This month’s issue celebrates that same sense of joy, tradition and togetherness. For families celebrating Hanukkah, Eight Bright Ways to Celebrate Hanukkah This Year (page 26) offers creative ideas that blend local flair with meaningful moments—think beachside menorah crafts, glow strolls on the boardwalk and latke bake-offs that turn your kitchen into a test kitchen. And if dazzling lights are your thing, Lighting Up Monmouth County (page 22) maps out some of the region’s most spectacular holiday displays—from Hazlet to Middletown—each with its own local charm (and a perfect photo op).

Need a break from the holiday hustle? A Very Boston Holiday (page 18) captures how a quick girls’ trip—a little change of scenery with good friends, good food and plenty of laughter—can be the best gift of all.

From our family to yours, we wish you a joyful, laughter-filled holiday season surrounded by the people (and maybe the elves) who make life bright. May your days be filled with warmth, good food, unexpected moments of magic and just enough chaos to keep things memorable. Here’s to cozy nights, twinkling lights and traditions old and new that remind us what this season is really all about.

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@citylifestyle.com

CO-PUBLISHER

Tiffany Slowinski | tiffany.slowinski@citylifestyle.com

SALES DIRECTOR

Cary Zackman | cary.zackman@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Carly Mac Manus | carly.macmanus@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Jessie Fernandez | jessie.fernandez@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Kristin Kowalewski | kristin.kowalewski@citylifestyle.com

INTERNS

Angelica Ferri, Alaina Borgh

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Andrea Phox, David Burke, Marilyn Schlossbach, Caroline Fanning, Garden State City Lifestyle

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Andrea Phox, Elly Dream, Peter Normandia of Edit Cellar, Devin Peppler Photography, Kartheek Hedge, Hollis Cooper, InterContinental Boston, Garden State City Lifestyle, Terry Janeczek, David Burke

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

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1—3: River’s Edge Wealth Partners celebrated five years with clients, colleagues and community at their anniversary party. 4: Sales director Cary and publication assistant Kristen enjoyed a casual lunch meeting in New York City. 5: Sales director Cary with our partner, the owner of Artemis Select Training. 6—7: Long Branch Public Schools were honored during National School Lunch Week with visits from agriculture and Sodexo representatives.

Want

business monthly

Rivers Edge Wealth Partners Joins Operation Sleighbells

Family & Children’s Services (FCS) is the oldest private nonprofit and a leading volunteer organization in Monmouth County. Its signature program, Operation Sleighbells, has supported local families in need each holiday season since 1909. Each year, the program provides warm coats, hats, gloves, toys, and infant necessities to more than 1,200 children, thanks to the generosity of local businesses, churches, organizations, and families. Rivers Edge Wealth Partners is proud to once again support Operation Sleighbells. This year, their office will also serve as a drop-off location.

SEAMLESS by DESIGN

For Marisa Goldman, founder of Gold Ribbon Productions, event planning has always been more than a job—it’s a calling. What began as a campus passion at Towson University, where she helped book concerts and homecoming festivities, has grown into a boutique event production company serving New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and now Florida.

Goldman’s career has spanned film, advertising, staffing, real estate and title, but events were the constant. She produced weddings and milestone celebrations “on the side” for two decades before officially launching the business last year. Soon after, she met event coordinator Jennifer Ortiz at a LeTip networking meeting—the two clicked immediately. “We work in lockstep,” Goldman says. She’s also long known event coordinator Alexandria Melone-Kunigonis and is thrilled to have her on board. “We keep communication open and consistent—our clients can feel that connection, and it puts them at ease.”

Gold Ribbon Productions crafts timeless, cinematic events

ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA PHOX, ELLY DREAM, PETER NORMANDIA OF EDIT CELLAR, DEVIN PEPPLER PHOTOGRAPHY

FROM WEDDINGS TO CORPORATE RETREATS

Gold Ribbon Productions specializes in weddings, grand openings, charity galas and client-appreciation events. Corporate retreats and destination experiences are a growing part of the portfolio, supported by Ortiz’s travel background and supplier relationships. The team often threads philanthropy into its programs—pairing student volunteers who need service hours with local nonprofits and connecting partner businesses across events so the impact extends beyond a single night.

Recent projects include collaborations with education and wellness organizations and planning support for community fundraisers. This spring, the company will help produce a golf tournament benefiting MOCEANS Center for Independent Living, a local charity the team supports. “When we grow together, it’s a wonderful feeling—that’s when you know you’re doing something that makes a difference,” Goldman says.

“WHEN WE GROW TOGETHER, IT’S A WONDERFUL FEELING— THAT’S WHEN YOU KNOW YOU’RE DOING SOMETHING THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE.”

- MARISA GOLDMAN

DESTINATION DREAMS

Looking ahead, Goldman says the company is expanding its destination offerings—from weddings to wellness and corporate retreats—and exploring partnerships with properties and transportation providers to create all-inclusive experiences.

“Our tagline is ‘Your Event Seamlessly Tied Together,’ and that’s what we want for every client,” she says. The goal: one Gold Ribbon itinerary that covers travel, lodging and on-site programming with trusted vendors the team already knows how to mobilize.

THE “OH-NO BUTTON” APPROACH

Crisis management is part of the appeal. Goldman welcomes events that have already begun planning without her team. “Whether starting from the outset or stepping in to take the reins mid-planning, we excel at getting everything on track,” she says. A typical scene: a worried bride calls, and within minutes, the team is tagging in vendors, troubleshooting logistics and resetting timelines. “You might start off crying, but after speaking with us, you leave happy,” she says with a laugh. Gold Ribbon Productions embraces being a late-stage problem solver — “like an emergency button” — allowing families to relax while the team handles the details. “If a client gets off the phone with us feeling happier than when they first called, we’ve done our job,” Goldman says.

A SIGNATURE LOOK

This winter, Gold Ribbon Productions is producing a New Year’s Eve wedding that will showcase the company’s signature style: timeless, less-is-more elegance. “We aim for a cinematic yet classic look—images that could have been captured 20 years ago or just last week,” Goldman says. That aesthetic, combined with disciplined coordination, keeps clients returning— including couples who have asked the group to take over destination components after experiencing the team’s local execution.

COMMUNITY, STITCHED IN

Monmouth County remains home base, and community ties are woven into every project. The company’s events often spark cross-pollination among small businesses—restaurants, venues and vendors—and create opportunities for students seeking meaningful volunteer hours. “It means everything to us,” Goldman says. “When local businesses grow together, the whole community benefits.”

Goldman credits the company’s network—built across production, real estate and events—for its speed and agility. Calls get answered, favors get returned and details fade into the background so hosts can focus on their guests. “When you approach your work with generosity and care, support has a way of finding its way back to you,” she says.

For more information, visit goldribbonproductions.com.

Boutique event production company delivering high-end, tailored experiences for corporate and personal clients.

THE ART

Current

Riding the wave of creativity

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA PHOX

A spotlight on Long Branch’s vibrant arts—celebrating the people, projects and performances shaping our community.

New Jersey Repertory Company - 179 Broadway, Long Branch

Did you know Long Branch is home to one of the premier regional theaters in the country? Located on Lower Broadway, the New Jersey Repertory Company has been showcasing bold new works for 28 years. Founded in 1997 by Gabor and SuzAnne Barabas, the intimate 59-seat theater has produced more than 150 plays—125 of them world premieres. Many have gone on to thrive Off-Broadway, nationally and internationally, with more than 400 subsequent productions to date.

NJRep is one of only seven theaters nationwide to receive the National Theater Company Grant from the American Theatre Wing, sponsors of the Tony Awards, recognizing its outstanding contribution to American theater.

And part of the fun? You never know who might appear on stage. Richard Kind (“Mad About You,” “Only Murders in the Building”) and James Pickens Jr. (“Grey’s Anatomy”) recently starred in Michael Tucker’s (“L.A. Law”) world premiere play “A Tailor Near Me,” while Sharon Lawrence (“NYPD Blue”) commanded the stage in her one-woman show “The Shot.” Tickets: njrep.org

POTTERY & MORE

Bruce England and Don Bradford

Bruce England, a lifelong Monmouth County resident and retired special education professional, has worked in clay for more than 30 years and recently expanded into jewelry making, combining chain mail, copper wire weaving and hand-built ceramics.

Don Bradford is a potter and pottery instructor. After two semesters of ceramics sparked his passion, he taught for several years while studying with a local potter. He earned his master’s in visual arts with a focus on ceramics. He later balanced part-time teaching with building his own studio, eventually leaving public schools to teach privately and create pottery full time.

England has also raised and bred monarch butterflies for the past 20 years. This summer he bred monarchs at home to release at his nephew’s wedding, where he was honored to officiate. Nature’s overlooked details—rocks, rivers and especially leaves—continue to inspire his pottery designs.

England and Bradford approach clay from different perspectives. Bradford’s wheel-thrown work is symmetrical and functional, finished with glazes—earning him the title “glaze master” from England. They eat, drink and even cook with Bradford’s pieces every day. England, by contrast, focuses on slab work and hand building, often pairing Bradford’s custom glazes with commercial ones. Together they experiment with a range of firing methods, from electric and reduction firing to pit, barrel and raku.

At home in New Jersey, the pair find joy in their backyard—gardening, watching nature, spending time with their three dogs—and sharing a late-afternoon beer with their red-footed tortoise, Red. As they like to say, there’s no place like home.

Pottery & More

ABOUT THE WRITER

Andrea Phox is a Master Professional Photographer, artist, and travel workshop leader based at the Jersey Shore. As author of The Art Current, she spotlights local creatives with curiosity and heart. When not in her studio in the West End Arts Center, she leads immersive  off the beaten path, photo workshops from Cuba and the U.S., blending art, culture, and connection. See more at andreaphox.com

ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY INTERCONTINENTAL BOSTON

Pack the car, grab your besties, and let the no fuss weekend unfold.

A Very Boston

Holiday

Want the weekend escape without dealing with the airport? Forget TSA lines and lost luggage — this trip is trunk-packed, playlist-ready and friendship-fueled. For us, the perfect girls’ getaway was Boston — a drive-in, park-it escape with waterfront views, spa time we could actually sneak away to and dinner just an elevator ride from our room.

FRIDAY ARRIVAL: CHAMPAGNE O’CLOCK

We rolled in on a Friday and checked into the InterContinental Boston on the waterfront, a stay that feels equal parts glam and cozy. The hotel sits between Fort Point Channel and the Rose Kennedy Greenway, giving us water on one side, city on the other and Seaport shops just a short walk away. We parked the car and didn’t need it again.

Step one of any girls’ trip? Kick off the heels, pop some bubbly and start plotting outfits no one will actually wear.

Rooms were bright and chic, with floor-to-ceiling windows and marble soaking tubs — the kind you’ll be texting your group chat about when the weather turns gray back home. Room service made it easy to call it an early night, ordering dessert in robes while catching up on stories we were “saving for the trip.”

WALK, TALK, SHOP, REPEAT

Our rhythm was effortless: walk, eat, talk, repeat. We strolled the Greenway, ducked into stores when the wind picked up and saved our energy for the evenings.

Night one, we kept it simple but celebratory. Matria, the hotel’s Piedmont-inspired restaurant, served up pasta worth writing home about. After, we lingered over espresso martinis at Bar Fellini — because girls’ trips always require at least one signature drink moment.

THE SPA PACT

Here’s the move everyone loved: a midafternoon sneak-away to the spa. Massages, facials — even just the quiet — were enough to reset us for round two of late-night laughs. A float in the indoor pool made us feel like kids again, while the 24/7 fitness center, complete with Pelotons, appealed to the friend training for a marathon who insists balance means one sweat for every pastry (from Mike’s, of course).

If you’re rolling in with your girls, book spa appointments in advance. Whether you opt for a group reset or a solo escape, it’s the kind of indulgence that makes a girls’ weekend feel next level.

SATURDAY GLOW AND CITY LIGHTS

Boston in December does the rest — twinkling lights, chilly streets that justify a third coffee stop and window glow that begged for group selfies. Breakfast was quick — coffee, something hot, something sweet to split — before we wandered the Harborwalk until our cheeks stung.

That’s the beauty of this getaway: no rigid itineraries, just a flow that lets laughter fill the gaps.

WHY IT WORKED

Location and options made this the ultimate girls’ trip. From the InterContinental, we could reach Seaport, downtown and the Greenway on foot, pivoting with weather and mood. No overthinking, no Uber spreadsheets, no stress.

Our group’s rules of the weekend: window-shop, find soup, book the spa.

IF YOU GO

• Arrive, park, exhale. You won’t need the car again.

• Book the spa early — holiday weekends fill up fast.

• Plan one dress-up night. Matria is perfect, and on-site makes it easy.

• Swimsuit and real coat — indoor pool for warmth, big coat for wind.

We drove home with clear heads, sore cheeks from laughing and camera rolls full of city lights, pasta and “one more selfie.” Turns out the perfect girls’ getaway didn’t require passports or crazy planning — just a good home base, friends who get you and time carved out for connection (and maybe one too many espresso martinis).

We drove home with clear heads, sore cheeks from laughing and camera rolls full of city lights, pasta and “one more selfie.” Honestly, that’s the best part of a girls’ weekend — piling into a car with your gal pals, leaving the chaos at home for a bit and turning a simple, low-stress escape into a core memory.

INTERCONTINENTAL BOSTON BY IHG

Address: 510 Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02210

Phone: (617) 747-1000

Website: ihg.com/intercontinental

Lighting Up Monmouth County

From Disney magic to hometown traditions, discover the holiday displays that make spirits bright.

ARTICLE BY CAROLINE FANNING | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GIANNA BUCCHIERI, THE COOK’S CHRISTMAS LIGHTS, POWERS FAMILY CHRISTMAS LIGHTS, LIAM’S SPECTACULAR CHRISTMAS DISPLAY

The Cook’s Christmas Lights

Location: Carlson Court, Jackson, New Jersey

Christmas begins in August for the Cook family of Jackson, who start drilling and building months in advance for their longstanding dancing-lights show. The Cooks boast more than 12,000 pixels synced to music; tune car radios to 100.9 FM for the full experience. Last year, the family raised $4,954 for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, and attendees have donated a total of $65,508 since the first show in 2011. Lights are on most nights in December from 6 to 10 p.m.

Lights on Meredith

Location: Meredith Way, Hazlet, New Jersey

Hazlet homeowner Ryan Basile turns Meredith Way into a celebration of all things Disney with his own rendition of “Happily Ever After,” the nightly pyrotechnic and light show projected at Disney World’s Cinderella Castle. Crowds gather at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. to watch Basile’s homage. Meredith Way will be blocked off, so expect to park a few streets away and walk. The projection runs at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Friday through Sunday, and the elaborate light setup—Disney inflatables and meticulously strung lights—shines all week.

There’s a reason lights are a staple of many year-end holidays: They warm our spirits and remind us winter won’t last forever. Take a drive around Monmouth County this December to enjoy some of the best handmade, homemade and homespun holiday light displays.

Liam’s Spectacular Christmas Display

Location: Garrett Place, Middletown, New Jersey

In Middletown, Liam’s Spectacular Christmas Display returns with a grand lighting ceremony Nov. 29 at 7 p.m., when thousands of lights switch on at once—last year, Kris Kringle even made an appearance. Lights shine nightly from 5 p.m. to midnight through December. The family even allows parents to flip the switch on the house’s artificial snow machine when they’re not home. Look up to see plastic reindeer pulling Santa in his sleigh across the night sky.

Powers Family Christmas Lights

Location: Third Street, Hazlet,

New Jersey

This Hazlet display is a 360-degree walkthrough experience. Visitors enter under a twinkling arch, follow the lights to the backyard and watch artificial snow blow from behind a towering inflatable Jack Frost. Don’t miss the front-yard tree swing strung with lights. The Powers family’s display was featured on Hallmark+’s “Ready, Set, Glow!” Lights are on until 10 p.m. on weekdays and 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Eight Bright Ways to Celebrate Hanukkah This Year

Family-friendly ideas with a Monmouth County twist

Hanukkah brings eight nights of light, music and togetherness—plenty of chances to make new traditions while honoring old ones. Whether you’re celebrating at home or heading out along the shore, here are kid-approved ways to keep the candles (and spirits) glowing, with a nod to Long Branch and nearby towns.

1. Host a latke bake-off.Turn your kitchen into a test kitchen. Assign teams—classic potato, sweet potato, zucchini—then hold a blind taste test with simple scorecards. Let kids mix, flip and tally votes. Round it out with applesauce and sour cream, plus a “chef’s table” for toppings such as chives, smoked salmon or everything seasoning.

2. Start a giving night.Dedicate one night to tzedakah. Have children choose a local cause— animal rescues, food pantries or coastal cleanups. Create “mitzvah coupons” kids can cash in for acts of service: helping a neighbor shovel, delivering canned goods, writing thank-you notes to teachers or first responders.

3. Make your menorah a craft project.Try a family art session: air-dry clay; painted seashells collected on a fall beach walk; or a safe wooden base decorated with shells and sand for a shore-inspired look. Use nonflammable materials and place candles in secure, proper candle cups.

4. Plan a glow stroll by the water.After candle lighting, bundle up for a boardwalk stroll in Long Branch or a downtown window-light tour in neighboring towns. Turn it into a simple scavenger hunt—find a Star of David, a blueand-white display, a menorah, a dreidel—and snap a family photo under the night lights.

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY GARDEN STATE CITY LIFESTYLE

5. Throw a dreidel tournament.Set up round-robin matches with chocolate gelt or pennies as chips. Post a bracket on poster board and teach younger kids the Hebrew letters and what each spin means. Keep energy up with short rounds, snack breaks and a champion’s ribbon.

6. Try a sufganiyot bar.Short on time? Buy plain doughnuts and set out fillings and glazes—raspberry jam, lemon curd, chocolate, vanilla glaze—plus sprinkles. For a homemade touch, let kids pipe in filling with zip-top bags. Pair with hot cocoa for a cozy, low-lift dessert night.

7. Cue the music and stories.Create a Hanukkah playlist that spans traditional melodies and contemporary favorites. Add a family story circle: Grandparents share memories from past holidays, kids read picture books aloud, and everyone contributes one “miracle moment” from the year—big or small.

8. Seek community light.Public menorah lightings and family events pop up across Monmouth County each season. Check local synagogues, community centers and town calendars for outdoor lightings, children’s craft hours and concerts. Many gatherings are open to all and feature songs, treats and photo spots.

MAKE IT YOURS: AN EIGHT-NIGHT PLAN. Keep momentum with a simple theme each night—Light, Gratitude, Creativity, Community, Play, Story, Flavor, Joy. Tape the list to the fridge and let kids help plan. One night might be a board game marathon; another could be a movie with a blue-and-white snack board; another a quick shoreline stroll before bedtime.

SAFETY FIRST.

Place menorahs on a stable, nonflammable surface away from curtains and drafts. Supervise children around open flames, keep pets clear, and never leave candles unattended.

LOCAL FLAVOR, LOW PRESSURE.

Prefer to stay close to home? Pick one evening for a shore-inspired dinner: latkes alongside grilled salmon and a citrus salad, with sea-salt caramel sufganiyot for dessert. For a quick outing, pair candle lighting with a short walk through a decorated downtown for window shopping and cocoa to go.

Hanukkah’s heart is simple: gather, light and share. Whether you spend the week making latkes, spinning dreidels or strolling the boardwalk after sundown, Monmouth County offers a beautiful backdrop—and your traditions make it shine. Chag sameach!

For more holiday fun ideas, follow @GardenStateCityLifestyle on socials!

Service, Season by Season

Growing a Community Through a Festival of Trees

ARTICLE BY CAROLINE FANNING

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

TERRY JANECZEK

For more than 100 years, the Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch has lived its motto, “Service Above Self,” by creating programs that bring hope and joy to local families. One of its most cherished traditions, the Festival of Trees, has become a symbol of generosity, creativity and community connection in Long Branch.

The Festival of Trees is a beloved community event that draws families, businesses and organizations together in the spirit of giving. Each year, local sponsors purchase trees to decorate for the public to enjoy. The trees are displayed in the open area of the West End Arts Center in Long Branch, where visitors can stroll among the displays, take trolley rides with Santa and Mrs. Claus, play games to win prizes, meet festive characters like the Grinch and Frosty the Snowman, and enjoy nightly entertainment — all free to the public.

Behind the sparkle lies a deeper purpose: supporting families in need through the Jingle Bell Buddies program, providing donations to local food banks and contributing to global causes supported by Rotary International.

The Rotary Club of Greater Long Branch has long served as a cornerstone of volunteerism in the city. Its members — local residents and professionals — dedicate their time and talents to addressing needs close to home as well as abroad. The club also sponsors Interact Clubs at Long Branch High School and Shore Regional High School, giving students an opportunity to volunteer at the Festival of Trees and through Jingle Bell Buddies.

“The Festival of Trees is a wonderful example of what happens when a community comes together for a good cause,” says Rotary member Terry Janeczek, who chairs both holiday programs. “People love the holiday spirit, but they also love knowing they’re making a difference for local families.”

“It’s about love, service and the joy of giving back. That’s what Rotary is all about.”

—Terry Janeczek

The Jingle Bell Buddies program selects at least a dozen families each year, learning about their needs and supporting them through the holidays with food, home essentials and gifts. Past items have included eyeglasses, mattresses, blankets, coats, work boots and small appliances. Each family is invited to a luncheon hosted by the Rotary Club, where they meet Santa and receive their wrapped gifts — ready to go under the tree.

Rotary’s presence in Long Branch feels local, intentional and caring. From cleaning up debris along the oceanfront to participating in the Gift of Life program and responding to disasters both national and international, the club weaves generosity throughout the year — anchored by the joy and connection that define the holiday season.

This year’s Festival of Trees will be open Dec. 12–14 and Dec. 19–21 from 5 to 8 p.m. nightly at the West End Arts Center.

“We are proud of what this event represents,” Janeczek says. “It’s about love, service and the joy of giving back. That’s what Rotary is all about.”

For more information, visit portal.clubrunner.ca/5033

BUILDING TRUST, GUIDING FUTURES

ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS

When Anthony “Tony” Frigoletto talks about money, he doesn’t begin with stocks or interest rates. He starts with people.

The longtime financial adviser and now owner and CEO of River’s Edge Wealth Partners built his career on Wall Street, spending two decades at Wells Fargo after time with UBS and Prudential Securities. But when he launched River’s Edge, his vision extended beyond managing portfolios.

“We tell clients we partner with them,” Frigoletto says. “We believe our relationship works because we provide the structure and discipline they need, and they bring honesty and trust to the table.”

A FAMILY-FOCUSED OFFICE

At River’s Edge, the process looks different from the start. Instead of opening with market performance, Frigoletto and his team prioritize discovery — learning about a client’s goals, family dynamics and long-term needs.

“Our goal is to build intimacy and trust,” he says. “We do that through conversations that help us understand each client’s situation and what really matters to them.”

The firm operates as a family-focused office, providing not just investment advice but also estate planning, tax planning and guidance through major life decisions. The team includes certified divorce analysts and planners who step in when family financial dynamics become complicated.

Some of the most rewarding cases, Frigoletto notes, are those in which clients have modest means but lean on discipline and guidance to build lasting stability. “Those are the folks who appreciate it the most, because they know how precarious it can be,” he says.

GUIDING THROUGH UNCERTAINTY

In times of economic volatility, Frigoletto says his role is often as much about reassurance as strategy.

“When clients panic, I want them to feel heard,” he says. “We remind them that we’ve planned for this — that their short-term needs aren’t tied up in the markets, and history shows recoveries typically follow downturns.”

“Our relationship works because we provide the structure and discipline they need, and they bring honesty and trust to the table.”

His calm approach, often laced with humor, helps clients regain perspective. “Sometimes I’ll joke, ‘We can go yell at Wall Street together if you want,’” he says. “But the real message is: Stick to the plan.”

TEACHING FINANCIAL LITERACY AND GIVING BACK

Beyond investments, Frigoletto stresses the importance of financial literacy at every age. Living within your means, avoiding unnecessary debt and building sound habits early are lessons he hopes every client — and their children — take to heart.

Community involvement is central to River’s Edge. The firm supports Family & Children’s Services in Monmouth County, raising funds and organizing holiday drives, including annual Adopt-A-Family efforts that provide gifts and essentials to local households.

LOOKING AHEAD

“Markets will always go up and down, but people’s basic needs don’t change,” he says. “Our job is to make sure clients are prepared and confident, no matter what’s happening in the headlines.”

For Frigoletto, the mission of River’s Edge is simple: lead with integrity, build trust through understanding, and help families not just manage wealth but build lives of stability and independence.

More information: riversedgewealth.com

Disclosures

Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC.

All investing involves risk, including loss of principal. No strategy assures success or protects against loss.

“Markets will always go up and down, but people’s basic needs don’t change,” he says. “Our job is to make sure clients are prepared and confident, no matter what’s happening in the headlines.”

RIGATONI BOLOGNESE,

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY DAVID BURKE

Chef Burke’s Kind of Cozy

When it comes to a pasta topping, Bolognese is high on my list. I’m not alone. The sauce has become such a staple on the American dining landscape that it appears on many non-Italian menus, including mine. Red Horse by David Burke in Bernardsville and Rumson offers rigatoni Bolognese. I use rigatoni because its ridges capture the sauce and its tubular shape coats inside and out.

Considered a ragù—a hearty, slow-cooked, meat-centric sauce—Bolognese traces to late-18th-century Bologna, one of Italy’s great culinary capitals. It traditionally starts with a mirepoix (finely diced, sautéed onions, carrots and celery), ground beef or pork (or both), red or white wine, tomatoes, and a little milk or cream. Simmered at least 90 minutes, the result is a thick, richly textured, deeply savory sauce that emphasizes meat flavors and is subtler than tomato-forward sauces.

Embraced globally as comfort food for its balance of simplicity and sophistication, Bolognese welcomes variations. Chorizo or merguez Bolognese are naturals; the latter often runs as a special at Orchard Park by David Burke in East Brunswick.

There’s even octopus Bolognese, which swaps in the mollusk and adds it at the end to keep it tender. One school of thought uses white wine here; I say stick with red.

For a vegetarian or vegan rendition, I’m partial to cauliflower Bolognese, with cauliflower and lentils standing in for meat. Some recipes cook the cauliflower with the sauce; I parboil it in water with a splash of wine and reserve that liquid to cook the pasta for extra flavor.

Master the traditional version below, then have fun experimenting.

THE COMFORT CLASSIC

ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed

• 3/4 cup diced celery

• 3/4 cup diced carrots

• 3/4 cup diced yellow onion

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

directions:

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 cup red wine

• One 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes

• 3/4 cup heavy cream or milk

Step 1. Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium to medium-high. Add beef and sausage; cook until browned. Transfer to a bowl.

Step 2. Add celery, carrots and onion; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 3. Stir in garlic, tomato paste, paprika, oregano, salt and pepper; cook 60 seconds, stirring constantly.

Step 4. Add wine; scrape up browned bits. Simmer until slightly reduced, about 3 minutes.

Step 5. Return meat to the pot; stir in tomatoes. Bring to a simmer, then add cream.

Step 6. Simmer uncovered 90 minutes, stirring occasionally. If too thick, add a splash of beef stock or water.

Step 7. Serve over al dente pasta of choice. Garnish with grated Parmesan, torn mozzarella or dollops of burrata (ricotta works, too) and fresh parsley or basil.

Note: Al dente pasta offers better texture and a lower glycemic impact than fully cooked pasta.

About Chef David Burke

New Jersey–born chef and restaurateur David Burke has spent decades championing playful, precision-driven American cooking. Known for elevating comfort classics with technique and showmanship, he brings the same rigor to a Sunday roast as to a tasting menu. Burke’s restaurants span New Jersey and beyond, and he remains a visible mentor in local kitchens and culinary classrooms.

64 Montgomery Ave Long Branch NJ 07740 lobsterpitnj.com (732) 768-0387

71 Brighton Ave Long Branch, NJ 07740 mixloungefoodbar.com (732) 923-9100

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

NOVEMBER 28TH - DECEMBER 21ST

Holiday Bazaar

15 2nd Avenue Long Branch, NJ

Celebrate the holidays with family and friends at the Holiday Bazaar Series 2025, running from Black Friday, Nov. 28, through Dec. 21 on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Shop and stroll at three locations: the Grand Arcade of Convention Hall and The Asbury Hotel in Asbury Park, and Whitechapel Projects in Long Branch.

NOVEMBER 29TH - DECEMBER 20TH

Bell Works Fresh Holiday Market

101 Crawfords Corner Rd, Holmdel | 9:00 AM

Come one, come all to the region’s largest series of shopping events featuring a curated collection of 75 local handmade artists and makers coming together for a festive holiday celebration.

DECEMBER 2ND

Giving Tuesday at Purr’n Pooch Pet Resorts

Purr’n Pooch Pet Resorts | 9:00 AM

Celebrate Giving Tuesday with Purr’n Pooch Pet Resorts. Ten percent of all daycare proceeds will support the Purr’n Pooch Foundation for Animals, helping pets in need while your own enjoy a fun-filled day of play.

DECEMBER 4TH

Trivia on Tap - Tinton Falls

4057 Asbury Ave, Tinton Falls | 7:00 PM

Join the fun every Thursday for Trivia Night, hosted by Trivia Revolution. Test your knowledge, compete for prizes and enjoy a night of friendly competition. Grab your team, sip your favorite drinks and show off your brainpower.

DECEMBER 6TH

Barkfast With Santa

Doggie Sweets - 15 Morris Ave #Unit 119 Long Branch | 9:00 AM

Bring your furry friend and family for a dog breakfast with Santa. Pups can enjoy a gingerbread pancake, a tasty dog-friendly coffee and a festive photo opportunity.

DECEMBER 6TH

Jingle Bell Run

101 Crawfords Corner Rd, Holmdel | 9:00 AM

Wear your festive gear and join the Jingle Bell Run to support arthritis research. Run, walk or stroll with friends and family to spread joy and make a difference.

DECEMBER 6TH

Asbury Park Santa Run

The Stone Pony, 913 Ocean Ave, Asbury Park | 10:00 AM

Relive the holiday spirit with a festive 5K run and walk in full Santa suits, fostering community while raising funds. All ages are welcome, with after-party venues throughout Asbury Park. More information: runsignup.com/Race/ NJ/AsburyPark/AsburyParkSantaRun

DECEMBER 9TH AND 11TH

Santa Photos with Boarding & Daycare Guests

86 Gilbert St W, Tinton Falls and 2424 NJ-35, Manasquan | 8:00 AM

Capture the holiday spirit with Santa photos for your furry friends. Each $20 session includes a 4-by-6 print and digital copy, with partial proceeds benefiting the Purr’n Pooch Foundation for Animals. Reservations are recommended. Dec. 9: Tinton Falls location, (732) 842-4949 Dec. 11: Wall Township location, (732) 528-8100

DECEMBER 13TH

Jesse Malin Concert

The Stone Pony, 913 Ocean Ave, Asbury Park | 7:00 PM

Rock veterans take the stage for a heartfelt, high-energy performance at the iconic Stone Pony, featuring supporting bands, intimate venue vibes and fan favorites.

Want to be featured?

As an independent medical vision practice serving the New Jersey community for over 20 years, we offer personalized care with an emphasis on quality service. We have invested in the latest eye care technology to bring you the most comprehensive eye exams, with solutions to correct astigmatism, eliminate myopia, co-manage refractive surgery, and more!

IN ENGLISH

Brighton Eye Care

112 Brighton Avenue Long Branch, NJ 07740

Phone: 732-870-1088

Advanced Eye Professionals

225 Gordons Corner Road, Suite 1C

Manalapan Township, NJ 07726

Phone: 732-792-9800

SPANISH

Relentless Legal Advocacy

Backed by Proven Results.

Strategic. Skilled. Uncompromising in Our Pursuit of Justice.

At Lyons & Associates, P.C., we bring together elite legal talent and a track record of results to guide clients through complex legal challenges. Whether navigating family law, criminal defense, estate matters, or civil litigation, our attorneys offer strategic insight, trial-tested experience, and unwavering commitment. Headquartered in New Jersey with global reach, we deliver clarity, control, and powerful advocacy when it matters most.

WHAT WE DO

Personal Services

Bankruptcy

Civil Rights Litigation

Criminal Defense

Family Law

Real Estate

Wills, Trusts & Estates

Professional Services

Bankruptcy

Business Law

Commercial Real Estate

Name, Image and Likeness (“NIL”)

Medical Malpractice Defense

EXPERIENCED. COMPASSIONATE. RESULTS-DRIVEN.

With a deep understanding of the legal system and a client-focused approach, our team is dedicated to securing the best possible outcomes for our clients. We know that legal issues can be overwhelming, which is why we take the time to listen, strategize, and advocate tirelessly on your behalf.

HOLLIS COOPER’S

Family Potato Salad

For Hollis Cooper local Long Branch resident, cooking has always been a love language. Born from family gatherings filled with laughter, gospel music, and the comforting hum of conversation, her recipes carry a legacy of warmth and connection.

“My mom always asked what I wanted for my special meal,” Hollis recalls. “It was always ham, fried chicken, potato salad, collard greens, and candied yams.” Those dishes became the cornerstone of family celebrations—a reflection of her mother’s care and a symbol of home.

Over the years, Hollis has shared that same joy of cooking with friends and family, often preparing her signature potato salad in quantities big enough to feed a crowd. “I’ve made it anywhere from a small bowl to 25 pounds,” she laughs. “It just depends on how many people I’m feeding!”

Faith and gratitude infuse everything she does. Hollis describes her greatest achievement as building a life of independence and stability—purchasing her own home and creating a place where loved ones are always welcome. “My perfect happiness,” she says, “is getting together with old friends who’ve become family, and seeing more love in this world.”

HOLLIS’ FAMILY POTATO SALAD

Ingredients:

• Baking potatoes

• Celery (chopped)

A Taste of Tradition, Faith, and Family

ARTICLE BY MARILYN SCHLOSSBACH

PHOTOGRAPHY BY HOLLIS COOPER

• Onion (chopped)

• Eggs (hard-boiled and chopped)

• Pickled relish or finely chopped Gerkins sweet pickles

• Mayonnaise

• Mustard

• Dash of sugar

• Dash of white vinegar

• Paprika (for garnish)

Preparation:

1. Boil the baking potatoes with skins on (they’ll peel more easily once cooked).

2. Peel and cut the potatoes into small cubes.

3. In a large bowl, combine the potatoes with chopped onions, celery, and pickles or relish.

4. Add chopped eggs.

5. Mix in mayonnaise and mustard to taste, then add a dash of sugar and white vinegar for balance.

6. Stir thoroughly until creamy and well-coated.

7. Refrigerate for several hours before serving.

8. Garnish with paprika for a classic finish.

Comforting, nostalgic, and filled with heart, Hollis Cooper’s Family Potato Salad is more than a recipe—it’s a reminder that the best dishes are those shared with the people you love most. For more recipes like this visit @gardenstatecitylifestyle

A Taste of Home for the Holidays

Planning your year-end office party, family reunion or holiday get-together? Nana’s Kitchen has you covered on-site or off-site catering available From beautifully plated entrees to buffet-style setups, we’ll deliver delicious, fresh cuisine so you can focus on celebrating

Reserve your holiday catering today!

1686 Highway 35, Middletown, NJ 07748 (732) 856-9268 @nanaskitchennj