Manasquan Brielle September 2025

Manasquan

+Brielle

NEXT STEPS, BIG STRIDES INDEPENDENCE FOR SPECIAL NEEDS ADULTS  GOING BIG LEAGUE BRIELLE PITCHER ALEX GALVAN

to School!

TAKES FROM

17 CAPTAINS COURT, MANASQUAN

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SEPTEMBER 2025

10 28 22 14

FEATURES

14 Back to School, Through the Ages

From first graders to college sophomores, local siblings tell us the good, bad, and hilarious about starting the school year.

18 From Little League to the Big Leagues

Brielle’s Alex Galvan takes the field as a new player for the Arizona Diamondbacks.

22 Next Steps, Big Strides

Offering independence and community engagement, Jennifer Dyer’s Next Steps program makes a big impact for adults with special needs. IN THIS ISSUE

Photography 6

4 EDITOR’S NOTE That old September Feeling

6 AROUND TOWN Local Happenings

10 LOCAL TASTES Turning Trash into Treasure 26 LIVING SPACES

A Perfect Project on Park Avenue

28 WELLNESS WATCH Back to School

30 BOOK NOOK Campus Novels for Back to School

31 PARTNER CONTENT A Seasonal Shift Toward Smarter Fabric Care

32 PHOTO OP Hear to Stay!

COVER

Brielle’s Shayne and Isla Eastmond, photographed at Brielle Elementary.

Photograph by Tiana Sollecito

Manasquan +Brielle

sTHAT OLD SEPTEMBER FEELING

“SEINFELD” ONCE did a great bit about how different days of the week have different feelings. “Sunday has a feel. Monday has a feel. Tuesday has no feel...” I think the same thing is true about months of the year. Some months feel vivid and specific. Other months not so much; they just kind of blend into the next month.

And here at the Jersey Shore, I think September is definitely the month that feels the most like a new month, dramatically different than the one that comes before or after. (I’m not saying it’s the best month. That’s a whole other conversation.)

Here’s what makes September so particular: Summer comes on gradually, but it disappears in a flash, and that feeling is

always bittersweet. No matter what the thermometer says, the days after Labor Day seem so much shorter, cooler, and quieter than the ones that came before.

Of course, I love the Local Summer aspects of September, when parking becomes stress-free and you can surf anywhere you want. But technically, the arrival of Local Summer means that Actual Summer is already over. Any beach day could be your last. If I had to give the feeling a name, September is a month that feels distinctly like Back to School. Granted, the last time I literally, physically went back to school, I was probably listening to Third Eye Blind on a Sony Discman. But all of the sense memories are still there. Suddenly, the air smells like falling leaves, and that smell always takes me back to classrooms and football games. So even though it’s been a quarter-century since I had any tests to study for, September still arrives with a feeling that tells me the carefree days in the sun are over, and now it’s time to buckle down and get back to work.

OK, I know that everything I’ve said so far is completely abstract. If we’re getting absolutely literal, the months of the year don’t actually exist in nature, they’re just manmade constructs that we use to measure our changing universe, and the “feeling” of a particular month is really just nostalgia for times that came before.

But I know that some people out there know what I’m talking about. (At the very least, Jerry Seinfeld does.) Until next month, enjoy all of the sights, sounds, and sensations of September. The feeling is mutual.

Christopher Baldi Editor

Director of Business Development

Kathy Gordon

Editor

Christopher Baldi

Writers

Leigh Mallin

Molly Mechler

Darren Monroe

Meghan Schultzel

Photographers

Alanna Mahon

Tiana Sollecito

Social Media Manager

Molly Mechler

WAINSCOT MEDIA

Chairman

Carroll V. Dowden

President and CEO

Mark Dowden

SVP, Group Publisher

Thomas Flannery

VP, Content Strategy

Maria Regan

Regional Publisher

Jodi Bruker

Creative Director

Kijoo Kim

Art Director

Rosemary O’Connell

Executive Editor

Elaine Quilici

Associate Editor

Sophia Carlisle

Advertising Services Director

Jacquelynn Fischer

Operations Director

Catherine Rosario

Production Designer

Chris Ferrante

Print Production Manager

Fern Meshulam

Advertising Production Associate

Griff Dowden

Manasquan + Brielle magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Manasquan and Brielle, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained here in do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Copyright 2025 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

Local Happenings

What’s going on around town!

The Manasquan Fireman’s Fair was first launched in 1974 and has since become one of the biggest events on the summer calendar, featuring live bands, carnival rides, a variety of the best local food vendors and a 50/50 raffle worth $25,000. This year’s fair kicked off on July 29, drawing thousands to Mallard Park over five warm days and nights.

The main event of this year’s fair was undoubtedly the championship game of the Summer Slam Basketball Tournament, which over the years has become one of the biggest spectacles in local sports. Congratulations to The Scari Org McDonald’s team, who defeated McLaughlin & Associates’ team and took home this year’s title after an undefeated Summer Slam season. Special thanks to Brian Delk for the amazing photography.

10-year-old Isla Eastmond has been a familiar face on the sidelines of the Summer Slam basketball league ever since she was a baby; the league was founded by Isla’s father Todd and his friend Tommy White in 2012. This year, Isla decided that it was time to do more than just watch from the sidelines. When she learned that one of the teams was playing for one of their own family members, she “checked in” to help.

“I asked my dad if I could do a lemonade stand at the game this year, after he told me about Team MEGcellence, and how they were raising money for the Sarcoma Foundation of America,” says Isla. “My mom, dad, and I thought it would be a good idea to donate some of the money we raised to their fundraiser.”

Team MEGcellence, one of the league’s 18 teams, is playing in

honor of Meghan Farrell, 28, future sister-in-law of team captain Brian Nerny. Meg is currently fighting Sarcoma, a very rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects your body’s bones and soft tissue. As with most cancer diagnoses, treatment and research for a cure can be very expensive.

Isla came up with the idea to host lemonade stands at the games in order to raise funds and awareness. With help from her mom Kelly, Isla made signs, flyers, posters, and even a custom QR code for instant donations. “I had a lot of fun at the courts watching the games and selling drinks, knowing I was helping make a difference,” says Isla.

To find out more, or to support Team MEGcellence and the Sarcoma Foundation of America visit curesarcoma.org

AROUND TOWN

This summer, the George Skokos Park saw the installation of a new Little Library, dedicated by the Mundie family, in honor of Gloria Rego, who passed away four years ago. The Little Library was painted by Manasquan High School art students and includes visual references to Leggett’s, Carlson’s Corner, and a yellow, blue and red fish, to represent the Colombian flag, where Gloria was originally born. “My mom instilled a love of reading and learning in me that I am now honored to be passing on to my kids,” says Jen Mundie. “I’m a former English teacher and now a stay-at-home mom. Frequent visits to the local libraries and reading at home are a huge part of motherhood for me. This project was truly a community effort, and we are so proud to be a part of it!”

July 17

Over twenty anglers participated in the Manasquan Fishing Club’s Ocean Fluke Tournament. The following club members took top honors, following a day of lively competition:

1st - Fred Truex 22.5 inches at 4.6 pounds.

2nd - John Sheehan 21.5 inches at 3.7 pounds.

3rd - Keith Wohltman 18.5 inches at 2.1 pounds. Winner of the Sea Robin Calcutta: Sean Wohltman

Are you ready for some football? Local pigskin is back, as Manasquan High School Football kicks off their 2025 season. Come out and support the Big Blue Warriors, as the season starts with an away game at Toms River South on Saturday, Aug. 29.

FULL MANASQUAN HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

:

Aug. 29: Toms River South

Sept. 6: Point Plesant Boro

Sept. 12: Matawan

Sept. 20: Shore

Sept. 26: Long Branch

Oct. 11: Red Bank Regional Oct. 17: Brick Township

Oct. 25: Colts Neck

Nov. 27: Wall Township

Do you have a real life ghost story? True tales of the paranormal? Spooky local legend? We want to hear from you! We’re hard at work on our October issue, and we’re looking for all of the coolest, creepiest, hair-raising true stories from Manasquan, Brielle and the Jersey Shore! Bumps in the night? Noises in the attic? We want to know! Email us at hello@manasquan-brielle.com!

September 6

Feeling crafty? Join us in Brielle Park as the Woman’s Club of Brielle presents The Brielle Day Craft Show! Featuring art, jewelry, and handmade items from over 150 juried crafters, with entertainment and attractions for all ages. Enjoy live music, food, and a beer garden for the adults, plus ice cream, face painting, and slime for the kids!

September 13

Celebrate the end of beach badge season as Manasquan Recreation presents the 4th Annual Manasquan Local Summer Beach Picnic! Hit Manasquan’s Main Beach and enjoy games, live music, and a BBQ! Lifeguards will be on duty for swimming, so bring your bathing suit and hit the water one last time!

September 13 & 14

September 20

Get into gear for a great cause at the 2025 Brielle Backyard Bike Crawl! Want to get your own backyard added to the route? Email BrielleEducationFoundation123@ gmail.com for details!

The biggest party on the Jersey Shore is back, as Sea Hear Now returns to Asbury Park for another unforgettable weekend of music and art. Set across three stages and the iconic Asbury Park boardwalk, this year’s festival brings a fresh wave of high-energy performances, dazzling art installations and worldclass surfing.

Recent years have seen epic appearances by superstars like Bruce Springsteen, Foo Fighters, and Pearl Jam. This year’s lineup is more eclectic than ever, with performances by Blink 182, Hozier, Sublime, LCD Soundsystem, ZZ Top, and Public Enemy along with New Jersey acts like Surfing for Daisy, Tide Bends, Phoneboy, and Not Yer Baby also on the bill. Meanwhile, catch an amazing roster of surfers, including Manasquan’s Audrey Iglas, Loch Arbour’s Paul Francisco and Beach Haven’s Jamie DeWitt Special thanks to Alanna Mahon for the photos.

Turning Trash into Treasure

Meet the Jersey Shore woman who’s getting the most out of compost.

BY DARREN MONROE

SEPTEMBER IS ONE of those “mark your calendar” months. Labor Day. Back to School Night. Sea Hear Now Weekend. And of course, International Day of Awareness on Food Loss and Waste Reduction.

Okay, maybe that last one doesn’t ring a bell (or roll off the tongue) but it’s real and it’s worth learning about. Food waste is a huge problem. I’ve seen this issue first hand in the commercial kitchens that I’ve worked in, as well as in my own home kitchen. But the good news is, there are many actions that we can all take to reduce food waste. This month, I’m focusing on a local business that’s making it easy to turn your food trash into treasure.

In 2018, Brick native Lauren Lastimosa was working as a gardener when she had an idea: What if she could collect her customers’ food scraps, compost them and then return the compost to the customers’ gardens, creating a circular food-to-garden system? How cool would that be?!

This lightbulb moment turned into

a floodlight when she researched the idea on a larger scale, recycling food waste for the general public. She saw this sort of program being implemented in other parts of the country like Washington D.C. and California, but from what she could find, there was nobody doing anything like it in New Jersey.

In her research, Lauren also learned about the staggering environmental impact of food waste, which contributes over 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions. That’s almost as much as global road transportation! How is this happening? When organic matter is buried and left to rot in a landfill it produces methane gas, a greenhouse gas that’s 25 times stronger than carbon dioxide, and that matter can take up to 25 years to break down due to lack of oxygen. This can also lead to land degradation, resource depletion and even water pollution.

What Lauren ultimately discovered is that organic waste is actually a potential resource, one which can be

recycled and turned into clean energy and, of course, compost. So those moldy strawberries, banana peels, eggshells and spoiled leftovers still have value—and sending them to a landfill is, well, a waste.

UN-WASTE

Lauren originally launched Un-Waste from her 2007 silver Chevy Cobalt, when she began picking up green five gallon buckets filled with food scraps from a handful of customers. At first, she brought the organics to a farm in Howell where they could be composted, until she learned that this was actually illegal! Prohibitive state laws partially explain why food waste recycling isn’t really done in New Jersey. But as luck would have it, a new food waste recycling and renewable energy facility called Trenton Renewables had just begun operations, and they were happy to take her trash!

During Un-Waste’s first few years in business, Lauren’s father John Lastimosa was her only employee and

biggest cheerleader. John genuinely believed in his daughter’s mission. However, in 2021, amidst the Covid pandemic, John passed away suddenly, when Lauren was just a few months shy of giving birth to her first child.

Grief stricken and overwhelmed, Lauren thought about giving up. But she knew that John would have wanted her to continue and that the work of Un-Waste was far from finished. Ultimately, she decided to double down and invested in a new van to grow the business.

Seven years after its inception, Un-Waste continues to expand and evolve, with two trucks serving over 2,000 customers. In addition to hauling organics, they’ve begun offering additional eco-friendly services, such as plastic film recycling.

Last year, Lauren welcomed Asbury Park native Don Farineau as a partner, leveraging his industry experience, keen business acumen and kind heart to focus on sustainable growth. Together, Lauren and Don are working with the field’s other local leaders to offer a number of ways to help people and businesses waste less.

Un-Waste recently partnered with Greater Goods Refillery in Manasquan to deliver non-toxic, refillable body and home products,

compostable garbage bags and other sustainable goods directly to your door. They’ve also partnered with Trenton-based Terra Cycle through their Zero Waste Bag program, which recycles over 20 waste streams otherwise considered “unrecyclable” (think coffee capsules, plastic packaging, disposable gloves, styrofoam, wires, cables, and much, much more.)

I met Lauren at an Earth Day event two years ago while dipping out of the restaurant kitchen I was working in to peruse the local vendor tables. I remember thinking that her business just made sense. Why wouldn’t we recycle old food scraps to make energy and compost instead of throwing it all away? We kept in touch. In fact, I appreciated Un-Waste’s mission so much that I recently joined the team. Given my experience in the industry, I am hoping to help get more local food businesses on board.

Here is my sales pitch in a (recyclable) nutshell: Modern life is simply too wasteful. It’s no one person’s fault per se, but it is our responsibility to do something about it. Food waste recycling is a small step we can each take to make a big difference in building a sustainable future. The official name of Un-Waste is actually Un-Waste Movement, because it is only by collective effort that we’ll make the biggest difference. That difference starts with each person, family, business, and community making a change. Habit change can be difficult at first, but the self-satisfaction of doing the right thing makes it much easier.

Chef Darren is a Jersey Shore native. He likes to cook, play guitar and get lost in nature. He’s currently binging “Andor” on Disney+ and listening to Janet Jackson’s “Someone to Call My Lover” with his 9-year-old daughter who also loves nostalgic R&B throwbacks.

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Back to School, Through the Ages

From first graders to college sophomores, we asked local siblings a series of questions about the year ahead. The answers? Honest, heartwarming, and sometimes hilarious.

BY MOLLY MECHLER

TTHERE’S SOMETHING SPECIAL about the back-to-school season: The smell of freshly sharpened pencils, the excitement of a new backpack, and the thrill (or nerves) of a fresh start. But for some families, the return to school is even more eventful than most. Picture one child starting first grade while their older sibling shops for prom outfits or college dorm supplies. These families are juggling sight words, lunchboxes, late-night study sessions, and loading up on life-lessons (laundry!) all at the same time.

Every student has some preconceived notions of how their school year is going to be. From sneakers squeaking down elementary hallways to high school seniors writing essays and applications, their stories remind us that every first day is a big one, no matter how old you are. To celebrate the start of the school year, we talked with two local families who have siblings on both ends of the academic spectrum—and we asked those siblings the same questions.

First, we checked in with CJ and Shaun, two brothers from Brielle with a 12-year age difference. CJ is entering second grade, mastering his math skills and preparing for a future in the NFL. His older brother Shaun is in his sophomore year at Monmouth University, living away from home, studying to become a teacher and (hopefully) doing his own laundry.

What are you most excited about for this school year?

Shaun: Making new friends.

CJ: Meeting new friends.

What are you least excited about?

Shaun: Classes where I have to write a lot.

CJ: Ummm…wait…In what grade do you start history? If it’s second grade, I’m not excited about that!

What do you want to learn this year?

CJ: Why is the sky blue and why is giraffe spelled with a “G” not a “J”?

What does school mean to you?

Shaun: School is a tool to get you the career you want in life.

CJ: Learning, having fun, and being kind.

What will you miss most about being home for the summer?

Shaun: Seeing my family every day.

CJ: Laying in my bed and relaxing.

What’s in your backpack?

Shaun: Pencils, notebooks, and books.

CJ: I don’t know.

Who is one person you look up to and why?

Shaun: I’m not sure.

CJ: That’s hard, I want to say to my family...I can’t pick just one!

What’s something you hope doesn’t happen this year?

Shaun: I really hope I don’t fail a class.

CJ: I hope no one gets injured on the playground.

If you could teach a class, what would it be about?

Shaun: I’d love to teach history or math.

CJ: Math. I like Math.

Where do you see yourself when you grow up (or after you graduate)?

Shaun: A teacher at a high school.

CJ: Playing in the NFL!

Who is one person you are hoping to be in class with?

Shaun: My cousin.

CJ: Oh, now this one is hard! Definitely Desmond, Mickey, and Willie.

If you could be the principal for one day, what new rule would you add?

Shaun: No homework!

CJ: Hmm..What new rule? No math— never mind, I like math. Let me think…go home early.

What is your favorite subject and why?

Shaun: Math is my favorite because I love the process to get an answer.

CJ: Math is my favorite. I like adding numbers together to get a bigger number.

What is your least favorite subject and why?

Shaun: ELA is my least favorite because I really don’t like writing.

CJ: My least favorite would be…actually, I don’t have one!

If the student sitting next to you starts to fall asleep, do you wake them up or let them sleep?

Shaun: Let him sleep, because I know I would probably be upset if someone woke me up—unless it was a test.

CJ: Wake him up! Because if a teacher calls on him, he’s going to be wondering what the answer is, he’s going to wonder what to do—so I would wake him up.

We also caught up with sisters Keegan and Selene. As Keegan gets ready for first grade, her big sister Selene is preparing to finish her high school career and make some big decisions about what comes next.

What are you most excited about for this school year?

Selene: Voc.

Keegan: Ummmm SNACK!

What are you least excited about?

Selene: Seeing my peers.

Keegan: Math.

What do you want to learn this year?

Selene: Getting my cosmetology license.

Keegan: (in a concerned tone) I don’t know.

What does school mean to you?

Selene: Depends. Sometimes it’s a good form of a schedule and social interactions. Other times I’d rather do anything else.

Keegan: I don’t know what that means.

(to Keegan) It means, when you think of school, how do you feel, and what do you think about?

Keegan: Ummm happiness, and sometimes I’m bored.

What will you miss most about being home for the summer?

Selene: Sleeping in.

Keegan: My whole family. And also puppy—that’s my little blankie.

What’s in your backpack?

Selene: Binders, water, pencils, deodorant, headphones.

Keegan: School stuff and my folders and my lunch box.

Who is one person you look up to?

Selene: My parents. They work really hard all the time.

Keegan: (blank stare.)

(to Keegan) Do you understand the question?

Keegan: No.

It means, who is somebody that makes you think, “I want to be just like them?”

Keegan: No one, I want to be just like me!

What’s something you hope doesn’t happen this year?

Selene: Drama. If I get put in a class with a drama queen, I’m gonna frown.

Keegan: I forget.

If you could teach a class, what would it be about?

Selene: History of punk rock.

Keegan: Teen numbers, that means 13, 14, 15, 16.

Where do you see yourself when you grow up, or after you graduate?

Selene: In the city, doing hair for Broadway or TV, working with rockstars. Happily married.

Keegan: I wanna go to the beach and build giant sandcastles with a lot of seashells on them. And I want them to be really big!

Who is one person you are hoping to be in class with or have a class with?

Selene: Jack Andrews. We are bros, he’s basically my brother.

Keegan: All of my friends are going to the same first grade class with me.

What is one thing someone may not know about you?

Selene: I’m nice! At times, I tend to

have a serious look on my face that makes people think I don’t like them or something, but I’m a nice person, I swear!

Keegan: Sometimes this (answering questions) is tricky for me.

If you could be the principal for one day, what new rule would you add?

Selene: I don’t really know.

Keegan: Everyone has to share toys.

What is your favorite subject and why?

Selene: Ugh, I wish I still had recess!

My favorite subject is voc—it’s what I’m most interested in.

Keegan: Teen numbers because I think it’s fun.

What is your least favorite subject and why?

Selene: My least favorite is math! Keegan: Math, because I think it’s boring.

If the student sitting next to you starts to fall asleep, do you wake them up or let them sleep?

Selene: Let them sleep. I don’t know what other people do every day. This could be the only place they feel safe enough to sleep or the only time they have to sleep. If they wake up, I’d probably ask if they were okay, but I’m not gonna start shaking them or snitch on them.

Keegan: (Shakes head no.) Well, the person next to me doesn’t fall asleep because she’s not tired. I always look at her and she doesn’t fall asleep.

Molly Mechler is a dedicated mother, seasoned educator, avid reader, recreational runner, thrifty shopper and local beach lover infused with a visionary mind for writing.

From Little League to The Big Leagues

Brielle’s Alex Galvan heads to Arizona, and he’s just getting warmed up.

BY MOLLY MECHLER

EEVERY YEAR, APPROXIMATELY

2.5 million American kids lace up their cleats and take the field in Little League baseball. Of those, around 500,000 will make it onto a high school varsity roster. From there, the number thins dramatically—about 56,000 will play college ball at any level. But just 1,200 American men will ever step onto a Major League Baseball field in a given year.

For professional baseball players, it’s known as “The Show.” It’s a longshot dream, a near-impossible climb. But for Brielle’s 24-year-old

Alex Galvan, nothing is out of reach.

At 6-foot-6, Galvan is a towering presence on the pitcher’s mound. As a two-sport standout at Manasquan High School, Galvan made a name for himself on both the baseball diamond and the basketball court. In baseball, he led the Warriors to a state championship and lettered four years. In basketball, he helped take home two state titles, earning AllShore honors in the process.

After graduating Manasquan High School in 2020, Galvan went on to pitch for the University of Louisville,

before transferring to the University of Central Florida, where he truly came into his own.

After an injury shortened his 2024 season, Galvan returned to the mound in 2025 as one of UCF’s most dominant relievers. In 17 appearances, he pitched 28.1 innings with a 2.86 ERA, racking up 38 strikeouts while holding opposing batters to a .202 average. He notched two saves and delivered 10 scoreless outings—an impressive showing that caught the attention of a few MLB scouts.

HOME RUN

To celebrate his signing with the Arizona Diamondbacks, we caught up with Alex to discuss rowdy fans, superstitions and the best advice he ever got from his coaches.

Who was your favorite baseball team growing up?

The Yankees. I grew up in a big Yankees house. My whole family are fans, and we love to go to the games.

Were there any particular players that you looked up to or idolized?

Derek Jeter, without a doubt. He was the captain of my Yankees, a true leader and a winner.

What are some of your favorite memories of growing up at the Jersey Shore?

Summers at the beach with my friends. I loved the long days in the sun, swimming, surfing, and just hanging out.

What has been the biggest adjustment about moving to Arizona?

Definitely the heat. It’s extremely hot out here, and the dry heat is a big change from the muggy, humid weather I was used to in Florida and New Jersey.

Everybody knows that ballplayers are superstitious. What are some of your own personal superstitions?

One of my superstitions is doing the exact same warmup before every game. It’s a routine of upper body movements and band work. I won’t take the field without it.

Did you do anything special to celebrate after signing with the Diamondbacks?

Yes! I went out to dinner with my family at The Pig and Parrot to celebrate—just me, my parents, my brother and my girlfriend, all the most important people in my life.

Would you rather hit a walk-off home run or pitch a no-hitter?

No-hitter, of course!

Do you have a favorite baseball movie?

“Rookie of the Year.” It reminds me of being a kid. I thought it was really funny and used to watch it all the time.

What city or state has the rowdiest baseball fans?

Texas, without a doubt. The fans yell at you nonstop, and they have chants that the whole stadium knows.

Pine tar on the helmet? Stylish or nasty?

Stylish because it looks cool.

What is some of the best advice that you’ve gotten from a coach?

“Get 1% better every day.” I’ve heard it from a few different coaches in a few different ways, but the message always stuck with me. It means giving your best effort daily without overwhelming yourself. If you focus on small, steady improvements, that 1% adds up and by the end of the year, you’ll be 365% better.

Any words of wisdom for all the little leaguers who dream about reaching the majors?

Keep chasing your dreams. Work hard, practice every day and stay focused. Nothing is given, you have to earn it. Baseball is a game of failure, no matter who you are.

In July 2025, the Arizona Diamondbacks selected Galvan in the 13th round of the MLB Draft. By July 22, he had officially signed with the organization and was assigned to the Arizona Complex League D-backs, beginning his professional career in rookie ball. With his tall frame and a wicked fastball that reaches the mid-90s, Galvan has all the physical tools needed to climb the ranks. Even though his professional trajectory is just beginning, he’s already accomplished what millions of young athletes dream about: He’s turned the game into a career.

And for the kids still playing ball under the summer sun of the Jersey Shore, Galvan’s story is proof that even the biggest dreams can start right here in our own sunny backyard.

Special thanks to the Galvan family, and to photographer Chris Rice for the excellent Manasquan High School shots.

Molly Mechler is a dedicated mother, seasoned educator, avid reader, recreational runner, thrifty shopper and local beach lover infused with a visionary mind for writing.

Next Steps, Big Strides

Jennifer Dyer’s Next Steps program offers independence and community to young adults with special needs— and the impact keeps branching out.

BY MOLLY MECHLER

FFROM HER EARLY days in education to her current role as program director, advocate and trusted friend, Jennifer Dyer has always been a tireless champion for young adults with special needs. Her vision for growth and inclusion continues to expand—much like the olive tree that inspired the logo of Next Steps Adult Day Program: Grounded in strong roots and always reaching upward.

When Dyer founded Next Steps, she wasn’t just launching a program—she was building a lifeline. For young adults with special needs and their families, it quickly became a place of belonging, opportunity and hope.

In just over a year, Next Steps has grown into a community where every individual is empowered to thrive.

A longtime special education teacher with more than 25 years of experience (10 in Connecticut, and 15 in the Manasquan School District) Dyer understood the reality that many students face after aging out of the school system at 21. These students are often left without structure, purpose or community connections, and their families are often left trying to bridge the gaps. Next Steps was born to change that. “Students were turning 21 and didn’t have a structured place to go,” says Dyer. “I wanted to build

a program that gave them all the experiences they deserve: learning, working, giving back, and being part of a community. I wanted to offer their ‘next steps’ after graduation.” What began with just eight clients has already grown to 46. The program is supported by 13 employees (10 of them full-time) and a number of dedicated volunteers. The team includes former special education professionals, as well as some moms who left teaching after maternity leave. Just as it does for their clients, Next Steps provides these professionals a meaningful way to stay connected, even after leaving the classroom.

LEARNING BY DOING

Based at 1521 Beaver Dam Rd. in Point Pleasant, the program runs Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday is the only day spent at their location; the rest of the week is entirely community-based. Thanks to a fleet of five vehicles, usually packed to capacity, clients head out for hands-on experiences in the real world.

Whether it’s stocking the snack shack at Point Pleasant Little League, shopping for Panthers Let’s Eat (a nonprofit that supports local families), or creating birthday boxes for foster children through We Are Loved, Next Steps is rooted in a “learning

by doing” approach.

“We don’t take classes,” says Dyer. “We do it. We model the behaviors, we work in the community, and we live the skills. We ask our clients and their families: What would you like to do? Where would you like to go? What do you want to learn? Then I do everything I can to make it happen, not within our walls, but out in the community.”

Next Steps also includes a daily enrichment block from 2 to 3:30 p.m., designed to meet the unique interests and needs of clients. Whether it’s cooking, art, fitness, or financial literacy, clients stay engaged and growing after the core day ends.

THE INSPIRING STORY BEHIND “LOVE, KATIE”

Nicolle Hallman never planned on becoming an author. A longtime middle school language arts teacher in Howell and mother of three, she always loved to journal, but writing a book wasn’t on her bucket list. “My mom would always say, ‘You should write a book,’” says Hallman. “But I didn’t know what I’d write— and honestly, I was afraid of how I’d even get it published.”

That changed last fall, when a conversation with self-publishing coach Lois Hoffman helped turn Nicolle’s years of thoughts, notes and experiences into something real. By November, she had submitted a draft manuscript. After several months of revisions, “Love, Katie,” was published in June.

Part memoir, part tribute, “Love, Katie” is a deeply personal thankyou letter, written for Nicolle’s family, friends and especially for her daughter Katie, who inspired every word. The title comes from the way Katie signs her own handwritten letters. One of those letters appears on the cover.

Katie, now 23, was diagnosed at age two with a rare chromosome deletion known as 7Q36. “It was so rare it didn’t even have a name,” says Nicolle. With an IQ of 53, moderate to severe hearing loss, sensory challenges and a history of anxiety, Katie’s early years were filled with questions, therapy and a search for answers. But what stood out most was her ability to write. “She’s always written notes to people,” says Nicolle. “She may have

This summer, Dyer launched the Next Steps Café. Located at 3100 Bridge Ave. in Point Pleasant, the café is open Wednesdays from 9 to 11 a.m., where clients serve coffee, practice customer service skills and engage with the public in a supportive, structured environment.

“We’re always looking for community partners,” says Dyer, adding, “Businesses willing to open their doors and give our clients a chance to participate in meaningful work.”

The community connection extends to Monmouth University, where speech, occupational, and physical therapy students intern alongside

trouble processing or hearing, but her ability to express herself through words is beautiful.”

Through the years, Nicolle and her family navigated every challenge, whether it was cracking the code of Katie’s fears (like an intense phobia of dolls), or advocating for educational support. “The great teachers take time to figure out the ‘why’ behind the behavior,” says Nicolle. One of those teachers was Jennifer Dyer, who worked as Katie’s paraprofessional at Manasquan Elementary and who later became her teacher and lifelong advocate.

“Seeing Jen open Next Steps felt like a continuation of everything we had built,” says Nicolle. “It’s a safe space where Katie can continue to grow, connect, and feel valued.”

As for the book, Nicolle says it was never about achieving a dream, it was about expressing deep gratitude. “I’m trying to be comfortable with the word inspiration. I never found myself to be very inspiring all those years. I was just trying to survive and find normalcy for the whole family. And now, I just wanted to share my story so I could properly thank my friends, family, and community. They truly saved a soul.”

“Love, Katie” is available at BookTowne in Manasquan, at local shops in Spring Lake and on Amazon.

Next Steps clients. This fall, Monmouth interns will lead a weekly hygiene and life skills class.

“It’s a win-win collaboration that benefits both future professionals and current clients,” says Dyer.

Accredited by New Jersey’s Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) and an approved, certified Medicaid provider, Next Steps offers families peace of mind without busting their budget.

Clients can use their state-provided adult services budgets on a program grounded in compassion, structure and purpose.

Even as they celebrate their oneyear anniversary, Dyer is still just getting started. “Transportation is always tight, and we’re growing

fast. We’re always looking for volunteers, more businesses to collaborate with, and new ways to expand our reach.” Through it all, Next Steps remains a movement toward independence, inclusion, and a brighter future for all.

For more information on Next Steps, follow them on Instagram @nextstepsadultdayprogram or email Jen at nextstepsadultdayprogram@gmail.com.

Molly Mechler is a dedicated mother, seasoned educator, avid reader, recreational runner, thrifty shopper and local beach lover infused with a visionary mind for writing.

A Perfect Project on Park Avenue

Blending a timeless coastal look with modern convenience, this Park Avenue home ticks all the right boxes.

BY NIKI KOVACS

SOME PROJECTS just stick with you, not only because of the cabinetry. This one, located on the Jersey Shore, was a full-home design for a family relocating from North Jersey. While the home is brand new, the client actually grew up in this town, so the design needed to reflect both roots and growth—something timeless, elegant and personal.

COASTAL CLASSIC

From the beginning, they had a clear vision: a home that felt coastal and classic, built to suit their lifestyle perfectly. Whites and deep navy blues set the tone, accented with polished nickel and brushed brass for that subtle sparkle. We warmed up the palette with touches of white oak throughout. The result is a space that feels serene but elevated: comfortable and clean without ever being cold. They also wanted a sense of continuity throughout the home, but with a little twist in each space. Every cabinet is the same crisp white, but we played with accents to give each room its own personality. In the kitchen, that meant navy blue, quartz countertops and stainless steel details for a fresh, polished look. The bar has beautiful brass wire mesh inserts, while the pantry and laundry rooms feel a little softer with warm wood

countertops. The primary bathroom features natural marble surfaces and elegant details, and both offices have their own tailored touches: his with a hand-applied glaze and dramatic dark countertops, hers with delicate mirror insets and thoughtful built-ins.

The homeowner was incredibly organized; she knew exactly how she wanted to live in each room, and we designed accordingly. Every drawer and shelf was planned with a purpose. That kind of clarity makes design feel less like guesswork and more like storytelling.

This was a dream team all around, especially with interior designer Sally Bacarella on board. Everyone—from trades to design—was in sync, and it shows in every inch of the finished home.

At Design Line Kitchens, we focus on creating spaces that feel just as good to live in as they look. For us, it’s all about thoughtful design that fits your lifestyle, whether you’re building from scratch or reimagining what’s already there. Every home tells a different story, and cabinetry is a big part of how that story comes to life.

Projects like this one are a great reminder of how the right details can make a house truly feel like home.

Back-to-School, Not Back-to-Chaos

Wellness Watch with Meghan Schultzel.

IF THE THOUGHT of packing lunches and getting everyone fed before 8 a.m. makes you want to crawl under the covers until Halloween—same. But here’s the good news: With a little prep and some realfood common sense, school mornings don’t have to feel like a marathon.

First, let’s talk breakfast. It’s easy to fall into the cereal-and-go trap, but those sugary bowls are basically just dessert in disguise. Kids need protein and healthy fats in the morning to power their brains, keep blood sugar stable, and help them focus past the morning meeting. Here are three of the go-to breakfasts that keep my household running:

• Egg bites: Make a batch on Sunday using muffin tins—eggs, spinach, cheese, maybe some sausage or bacon—and you’ve got a grab-and-go option all week.

• Greek yogurt parfaits: Layer full-fat Greek yogurt with berries and a low-

sugar granola in mason jars. Bonus points if your kids think it’s “fancy.”

• Sheet pan breakfast quesadillas: Scramble up eggs, add shredded cheese, cooked sausage or beans, and spread it all across half a tortilla. Fold them, line them up on a baking sheet, bake until golden, then slice and freeze. Reheat in the toaster oven or air fryer, and boom— breakfast is done for days.

Now let’s tackle lunches, which are somehow both the most thankless and most important part of your daily routine. We want energy, not a carb crash by recess.

WELLNESS WATCH SEPTEMBER EVENTS

When: Saturdays in September, 8 to 9 a.m.

What: Free Yoga on the Beach Where: Spermaceti Cove, Sandy Hook Register: No fee, drops-in welcome, bring your mat/towel

When: September 6

What: Brielle Day Hill & Dale 10k Where: Brielle Register: www.runsignup.com

When: September 6

What: Shell Yeah! 5k Where: Point Pleasant Register: www.raceforum.com

Think bento box, but make it lazy.

• Protein: sliced turkey, hard-boiled eggs, leftover meatballs, or even a thermos of chicken soup

• Fat: cheese cubes, hummus, guac or olives

• Crunch: sliced cucumbers, peppers or carrots—kids actually will eat veggies if they’re cut small and served with dip

• Treat: a few dark chocolate chips or a

When: September 6

What: Bikes & Beers Where: Birdsmouth Beer, Oceanport Register: www.bikesignup.com

When: September 6

What: Fallen Heroes Memorial 5k Where: Bar Anticipation, Belmar Register: www.raceroster.com

When: September 14

What: Survival of the Mills 5 Stage Triathlon & Duathlon

Where: Wells Mills County Park, Waretown Register: www.runsignup.com

homemade muffin with some hidden zucchini (you sneaky genius, you)

Also, can we talk about the snack situation? These kids have been eating every 30 minutes since June. How they’re going to survive a full day with two structured eating times is beyond me—but we can at least set them up for success with nutrient-dense meals that actually fill them up.

When: September 20

What: Lake Como Day 5k

Where: 415 18th Avenue, Lake Como Register: www.runsignup.com

When: September 27, 10 a.m.

What: Pound the Pavement for Purple 5K Run/Walk Where: The Headliner, Neptune Register: www.runsignup.com

When: September 28, 8 a.m.

What: Treasure Island Sprint Triathlon, Duathlon, Aquabike & Kayak Triathlon

Where: Riverfront Park, Pt. Pleasant Register: www.trisignup.com

Pro tip: Let your kids help. Give them two options for each lunchbox “section” and let them build it. They’re way more likely to eat it if they helped choose it.

Bottom line: You don’t have to be perfect—just prepared. A little realfood prep goes a long way toward smoother mornings, fewer meltdowns, and kids who are ready to learn (or at least less likely to demand a snack five minutes into math.)

Want to be featured in an upcoming Wellness Watch? Have a fitness or wellness event that you’d like featured? Reach out to meghan.schultzel@gmail.com.

BOOK NOOK

Campus Novels for Back to School!

September is here, along with pencils, books, and teachers’ lovely looks. Ease back into the routine of a new school year with these captivating campus novels.

BY LEIGH MALLIN

THE SECRET HISTORY

by Donna Tartt

This modern classic has all the elements of an unputdownable campus novel. Set at the fictional Hampden College in Vermont, the story follows a group of elite classics students led by enigmatic professor Julian Morrow as they become entangled in a murder and its aftermath. Told from the point of view of outsider Richard Papen, the reader is taken on a wild literary ride through the events leading up to the murder. Less about who committed the murder and more about why, “The Secret History” delves into themes of obsession, morality, class, and the dark sides of intellectualism. This novel is sure to give you “skull and bones society” vibes!

BUNNY

by Mona Awad

Think of Bunny as the darker, weirder, more satirical sister of “The Secret History.” Similar to that novel’s protagonist, Samantha Mackey is an outsider enrolled in an MFA writing program at fictional Warren University. She is drawn into a group of wealthy female writers—a uniquely eccentric and unsettling clique that call themselves “the Bunnies.” As Samantha becomes more involved in their bizarre writing

“processes,” she begins questioning her own sanity. The lines between reality and fantasy blur in this brilliant fever dream of a novel that had me laughing out loud and gasping in horror, often at the same time. If you like this one, don’t miss “We Love You, Bunny (Bunny #2)” out Sept. 23; it does not disappoint!

COME AND GET IT

by Kiley Reid

Brand new in paperback, “Come and Get” is a novel set in 2017 at the University of Arkansas. We meet Millie, a struggling resident assistant yearning to graduate and buy her own house. In the midst of juggling her classes and RA responsibilities, she meets Agatha Paul, a visiting professor who offers Millie a unique and intriguing writing opportunity—one which ultimately complicates her plans. Told entirely from female points of view, I loved the way this novel reads like a burn book: full of musings on the messy and complex realities of college life, the choices people make and the aftermath of those decisions. An engaging and juicy page-turner!

BLUE LIGHT HOURS

by Bruna Dantas Lobato

This is a quietly beautiful novel about a young woman who leaves her home

and beloved mother in Brazil for a liberal arts college in Vermont. Every night, from four thousand miles away, they log onto their respective computers to communicate the only way they can: through Skype. Within these confines, the distance between them becomes painfully more obvious, and their lives quickly begin to diverge. Elegant and melancholic, “Blue Light Hours” is a lyrical portrait of a mother and daughter coming of age, both together and apart.

TOMORROW, AND TOMORROW, AND TOMORROW

by Gabrielle Zevin

It’s hard to put into words how I feel about this book. Sam and Sadie initially meet as children and then reconnect while studying video game design at Harvard. Their friendship spans three decades, and like any true partnership, has its ups and downs, with moments of connection and estrangement. Initially, I wasn’t sure I could be invested in a book that centers on the gaming world, but I’m so glad I took a chance on this one. The writing is gorgeous. An ode to friendship, creativity and above all, LOVE.

Leigh Mallin is a bookseller at BookTowne.

A Seasonal Shift Towards Smarter Fabric Care

Upgrade your laundry routine with the start of the season.

AS SUMMER RETREATS and cool air creeps in, so begins the great wardrobe rotation. Out go the breezy linens, in come the cozy knits, flannels, and heavy layers that define fall fashion. With this seasonal shift comes a renewed need for laundry appliances that can handle not just volume, but variety. Thicker fabrics, bulkier items, and specialty cycles become necessary as your laundry demands evolve.

Luckily, today’s washers and dryers are equipped to do far more than spin and dry. This fall, consider machines that can think, sense, and adapt. They help preserve your wardrobe and make laundry simpler.

For instance, LG’s AI DD technology intuitively analyzes the weight and fabric type of your load, adjusting the wash motion for optimal care. Pair that with their WashTower for a stacked, space-saving design that combines fast cycles and steam options in a sleek silhouette. This design is ideal for small homes with busy laundry needs.

Samsung’s EcoBubble, now enhanced by AI Wash, delivers thorough cleaning even at low temperatures by creating detergent-rich bubbles that penetrate fabric faster. Combined with dual washer-dryer models like their Bespoke AI Combo, you can seamlessly handle everything from muddy soccer kits to delicate wool without swapping appliances.

For those who crave true convenience, Whirlpool’s Load & Go™ system holds detergent for up

BY DANIEL KRAFTMANN

to 40 loads, releasing just the right amount each time. There’s no need for measuring or cleanup. Their innovative 2-in-1 removable agitator easily adapts from bulky bedding to delicate layers, while the Pretreat Station Plus tackles seasonal stains before they set.

Meanwhile, Miele’s TwinDos and CapDosing options offer precision detergent control alongside a gentle Honeycomb Drum, ideal for safeguarding premium fall fabrics like cashmere or fleece. Their ventless dryers use EcoDry technology to maintain energy efficiency and fabric protection over years of use.

Don’t overlook the dryer in this seasonal transition. Electrolux offers rapid care with a 15-minute fast dry

and Predictive Dry sensors, while GE’s UltraFresh Vent System combats moisture and odor, so you don’t need to leave the door open between loads.

This fall, laundry is no longer a chore. It’s a system of thoughtful features designed around the real rhythms of your life. With the right washer and dryer, your seasonal switch can feel less like work, and more like the clean start that the upcoming autumn promises.

Town Appliance is a leading retailer of luxury and ordinary appliance brands. Visit Town Appliance at 10 S. Clifton Ave. in Lakewood or online at www.townappliance.com.

FOR MONTHS, we heard rumors that Sea Hear Now might not return. And to be perfectly honest, it’s hard to imagine anybody ever topping last year’s three-hour headlining set by Bruce Springsteen. But hang on to your flower crown, because the two-day music, art, and surfing festival returns to Asbury Park on Sept. 13 and 14. Alanna Mahon snapped this slice of festival life at last year’s event, which drew over 35,000 fans.

Have a great image for Photo Op?

Submit your high-resolution shot to Chris.Baldi@manasquanbrielle.com.

THE DAN GENTILE DOG TRAINING CENTER: An Expert’s Passion and a Pet’s Oasis

BY SHANNA O’MARA

The Dan Gentile Dog Training Center is local pet owners’ go-to place for dog training and animal expertise. As one of the nation’s leading trainers of dogs and dog handlers, owner Dan Gentile has seen it all in his decades-long career. He apprenticed under some of the top handlers in both the United States and Europe, and he has trained thousands of dogs from across the globe.

Gentile has more than 40 years of experience in training dogs and has taken canine behavioral courses at Cornell University and the Guelph, Ontario Veterinary College, in Canada.

Dan has a library of more than 200 dog training and dog behavior books and DVDs on various methods of training. Gentile also authored a book on beginning dog obedience which was published by TFH Publications. “Guide to Dog Obedience Training” was translated into various languages and sold worldwide. His know-how to train a dog has been viewed and used by more than 200,000 people worldwide.

He is a member of the Animal Behavior Society and is a founding member of various dog training associations.

The center is set on 10 acres of land, offering dogs the opportunity to burn off energy outside as well as receive training indoors. Dogs can stay at the facility while being trained and are given their own safe, temperature-controlled space to run and sleep. The facility is also equipped with a Global Plasma Solution Air Purifier and a Reme Halo Air Purification System. A bathing area and kitchen with stainless steel appliances are also on site to provide animals with the best care. The center is monitored with a state-of-the-art camera system, which Gentile actively checks when he is not on the grounds. He oversees all trainers and invites anyone interested in to see the facility before making a decision on behalf of their beloved pet.

Results are guaranteed for life, and clients are always welcome to contact Gentile with any issue that arise after training. If a dog is too aggressive for the staff to safely work with, the client will be contacted and all funds reimbursed.

The Dan Gentile Dog Training Center has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. It is located at 692 Lakewood Farmingdale Rd. in Howell. The center is open for visitation Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 732-938-5040.

Megan Schell Schnurr

Realtor Associate

EAST of Highway 35 in WALL

LAND, LAND LAND! A rare oversized lot of 100 x 141 x 107 x 180 nestled in one of the area’s most desirable neighborhoods, this unique oversized property offers a serene blend of space, nature, and potential. Set on a generously sized lot, is a 2 bedroom, 1 bath ranch that can be expanded. The true highlight of this stunning piece of land is the gorgeous stream that gently winds through the very back of the property line creating a picturesque wooded backdrop & a peaceful retreat. Whether you’re envisioning building your dream home or looking to expand on the existing ranch, the possibilities here are endless. Enjoy the privacy and natural beauty that only a property like this can provide—all while being conveniently located near top-rated schools, beaches, parks, & downtown Manasquan’s shops and restaurants. $894,000