Education

Where Imagination Comes to Play

Two moms bring play-based learning, imagination and movement together at Just Play Indoor Playground. Article by Brooke Boyer | Photography by Andrea Phox Photography What began as a simple belief—that children learn, grow and thrive through play—became the foundation for Just Play Indoor Playground in West Long Branch. Before opening Just Play, co-owners Leslie Font and Paulina Rosero built Colorín Spanish Program, a Spanish immersion program in Monmouth County rooted in play-based learning...

Local Services

Readers' Choice

KIDS + PETS EDITION —AUGUST 206 Article by Greater Long Branch City Lifestyle | Photography by My Havana Photography From playgrounds and classrooms to grooming tables and exam rooms, kids and pets keep family life full of energy, laughter and love. This month’s Readers’ Choice: Kids + Pets Edition celebrates the Greater Long Branch businesses that local families count on to care for, teach, support and spoil the youngest members of the household—whether they have two legs or four. Chosen...

Education

Where Stories Come to Life

A historic neighborhood library fostering literacy, learning, connection, and community across generations. Article by Brooke Boyer | Photography by Wesley Cheringal At first glance, the West End branch of the Long Branch Public Library feels more like a historic home than a public library. With its original architectural details, neighborhood charm and welcoming atmosphere, it is easy to understand why visitors feel instantly at home. But behind its historic walls is something even more...

Entertainment

Daisy Takes the Crown

A stylish Freehold pup charms her way to City Lifestyle’s top doggy title. Article by Brooke Boyer | Photography by My Havana Photography In May, dogs from across New Jersey gathered for City Lifestyle’s Next Top Doggy Model casting call, where canine contestants competed for the chance to represent their hometown on the cover. A key partner in the event was K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel Hillsborough, known for luxury dog boarding and daycare, cage-free accommodations and a focus on safe, clean...

Food + Beverage

The Kids Made Me Do It

How family moments inspired some of Chef David Burke’s most iconic creations. Article by Recipe by Chef David Burke | Photography by David Burke Hospitality Management This month’s kids and pets theme got me thinking about the times my kids have impacted my culinary creativity, including one rainy day at home with my boys that unexpectedly inspired one of my most playful desserts: cake pops. It was back in the early ’90s. My two little boys and I were stuck at home due to torrential rain...

Food + Beverage

The Boys’ No Bake Bonbons

Kid chef friendly no bake dog treat recipe Article by Recipe by Tater Bear Treats | Photography by Tater Bear Treats Treat your four-legged family member to something homemade, wholesome and easy enough for little hands to help make. Homemade pet treats are a healthy alternative to store-bought options, letting owners control ingredients and avoid artificial additives. This no-bake recipe combines whole oats, peanut butter and coconut for a simple kitchen project children can help prepare. ...

Health + Wellness

Best Oral Surgeons Serving Long Branch, West Long Branch, Eatontown, Tinton Falls, Ocean Township and Red Bank, NJ

Finding an Oral Surgeon Near Long Branch and West Long BranchMost people do not start researching oral surgeons until a dentist recommends one or a dental problem becomes difficult to ignore.The search may begin because a teenager needs wisdom teeth evaluated, an adult is considering dental implants or a patient has a tooth that cannot be removed through a routine extraction.Oral and maxillofacial surgeons complete advanced hospital-based surgical and anesthesia training after dental school...

Sports + Recreation

Social Platforms are Starting to Operate Like TV Networks

Have you noticed that social media platforms are starting to look eerily similar to television networks? Spitball certainly has kept an eye on this evolving transformation. We actually think it makes logical sense. Social media has long abandoned its namesake and can be more accurately labeled as algorithmic media. Depending on the source, 80-90% of content is generated by algorithms featuring creators, public content and ads rather than personal connections. To fuel the scroll and win...

Professional Services

Best Dentists in Long Branch, West Long Branch, Oceanport, Deal and Oakhurst, NJ

Choosing the right dentist involves more than finding the office closest to home.Patients should consider the services offered, appointment availability, insurance participation, technology, communication style and whether the practice can continue providing care as their needs change.Some dental practices focus primarily on routine family care. Others provide cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, emergency appointments or more complex restorative treatment under one roof.For individuals and...

Professional Services

Before Your Monmouth County High School Athlete Signs an NIL Deal

Student-athletes across Monmouth County are finding more opportunities to earn income through name, image and likeness (NIL) agreements. From endorsements and social media partnerships to appearances and camps, high school athletes now have more ways than ever to build their personal brand.But not every opportunity is worth accepting. Under New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) rules, an athlete's NIL activities must remain separate from their school and team. Violations...