Manasquan Brielle April 2025 by Wainscot Media

Manasquan +Brielle

There’s Always Something New in Town.

GREGORY RICE GREGORY RICE PRESENTS PRESENTS

Dogs Make a House a H me!

Did You Know...

My wife, three kids, and I are a Foster Family for the non-profit/all volunteer group "Wag On Inn Rescue". Both our dogs (a Pit-mix named "Penny Lane" and a Huskymix named "Bowie") are rescues, and we have a passion for finding loving homes for dogs rescued as strays, or found abandoned, or surrendered by owners. We love bringing these dogs into our home where we get them acclimated, facilitate their shots and spaying/neutering, potty-training if necessary, and then work to find them a loving home through adoption. We decided that a home is just much more loving of a home with dogs, so we love being not only dog owners, but a Foster Family for others. Here are some photos of the 16 wonderful dogs we have fostered and successfully found homes for since starting in 2022! - Greg

Spring Awakening

As of this writing, it’s 21 degrees in both Manasquan and Brielle. And according to my phone’s weather app, it “feels like 4 degrees.” Although I never quite understood that calculation. If it feels like 4 degrees outside, why doesn’t the thermometer say 4 degrees?

Of course, it’s late February as I’m writing this, and we’ve been in the middle of a brutal cold spell for a while. I spent last night lugging a space heater into the crawl space under my spare bathroom just to make sure none of the pipes freeze overnight. It’s moments like these when I fantasize about moving to Rincon, Puerto Rico, or maybe the Florida Keys.

But by the time this issue reaches your mailbox, we’ll be knocking on the door of April. And that idea is enough to get anybody through a long,

BY ALANA MAHON

cold winter. April is the month when the Garden State finally begins to thaw out and sprout new life. Checking the weather app becomes fun and exciting again.

And even though I have no idea what the weatherman has in store for April 2025, let me take you back to some of last year’s highlights: April 1, 2024, was wet and gray. The thermometer never climbed higher than 49 degrees. But just two weeks later, on April 15, the Jersey Shore was 83 degrees, clear and sunny. That’s exactly the kind of big swing that I live for.

Because, let’s face it, if New Jersey was 83 degrees and sunny all year round, there would be nothing magical about an April beach day. But after you’ve spent a few months squeezing into a hooded wetsuit, that very first day back in a real bathing suit is pretty amazing. And after you’ve spent a few months scraping the frost off your windshield, that first day of driving around town with the windows rolled down is positively invigorating.

We have a great issue for you this month, so give the furnace a long overdue rest, open your doors and windows and enjoy the fresh air. There’s a very particular feeling that comes with the first days of spring, and it’s a feeling that only comes on the other side of a long, cold winter. It’s a feeling that doesn’t quite hit the same down in, say, the Florida Keys. Enjoy.

Christopher Baldi Editor

Manasquan +Brielle

MAGAZINE

Group Publisher

Jodi Bruker

Director of Business Development

Kathy Gordon

Editor

Christopher Baldi

Writers

Leigh Mallin

Molly Mechler

Darren Monroe

Meghan Schultzel

Clara Seigler

Photographer

Alana Mahon

Social Media Manager

Molly Mechler

WAINSCOT MEDIA

Chairman

Carroll V. Dowden

President and CEO

Mark Dowden

VP, Group Publisher, Regional

Thomas Flannery

VP, Content Strategy

Maria Regan

Creative Director

Kijoo Kim

Art Director

Rosemary O’Connell

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.

PHOTOGRAPH

Around Town

LOCAL THEATER

Congratulations to the cast and crew of The Algonquin Arts Theatre’s stirring production of “The Diary of Anne Frank,” which played to sold out crowds across two weekends in February. The latest installment of The Algonquin’s Broadway series starred Lisa Catalfamo in the title role, with solid support from Lauren Friedman, John C. Short, Kitana Samme Sultan, Dave Fretz, Jennifer Shrestha, Arielle Dymyd and Maxwell Devivo. Special thanks to John Posada for the production photos. Next up: Kick off your Sunday shoes for “Footloose: The Musical,” coming to The Algonquin March 28 to April 6! Get your tickets now!

April 12: From 9 a.m. to 12:30 pm., hit the beach for a great cause, as Clean Ocean Action leads the 40th Annual Beach Sweeps across the Jersey Shore. Over 80 locations are looking for volunteers of all ages, including Belmar, Spring Lake, Sea Girt and Manasquan’s Main Street Beach. Grab a bucket, a pair of work gloves, and be part of the team that keeps our beaches beautiful! See below for some of the nearest participating locations, and check out cleanoceanaction.org for registration and complete location information.

• Asbury Park South Side of Convention Hall 1st Ave. Beach

• Avon-by-the-Sea, Avon Pavilion at Norwood & Ocean

• Belmar 3rd Ave. Beach 15th Ave. Beach L Street

• Bradley Beach Gazebo on 5th Avenue

• Manasquan Main Street Beach, 605 E. Main St.

• Neptune City Memorial Park

• Ocean Grove Boardwalk Pavilion

• Sea Girt Boardwalk at Beacon Blvd, 2 Ocean Ave. N.

• Spring Lake South End Pavilion, 410 N. Ocean Ave.

April 19: From 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., hop on over to downtown Manasquan to catch a glimpse of the Easter Bunny! Bring the kids, take family photos and meet the world’s most magical rabbit, courtesy of the Manasquan Chamber of Commerce.

Around Town

UPCOMING EVENTS

April 5: From 11 a.m. to 5 their 2025 Spring Trunk Show featuring jewelry designer Zachary Bloom. For over 20 years, Bloom has specialized in working with raw gemstone to make bold, elegant jewelry designs. Visit westongalleries.com or call 732-292-1664 for details.

READY TO GET REEL?

The Manasquan Fishing Club wants you! Since 1955, the MFC has been honoring the art of saltwater angling and enhancing the fishing skills of its members. Club meetings are held on the first Friday of every month at 7:30 p.m. at 62 Main St. in Manasquan. Meetings include fishing reports, guest speakers, pizza and camaraderie. Join now to be a part of the MFC’s regular outings, contests and events! Visit manasquanfishingclub.com for details.

April 12: Join the party and start the summer early, as The Osprey presents an evening to raise money for Manasquan Cares Inc. Eat, dance and help support a great cause for just $20 a person! Featuring live music by Take Five and amazing food courtesy of Ragin Cajun and Harry’s Smokin’ BBQ. Tickets available at the door or contact Tiffany Prime for details.

April 26 to May 2: Looking for your next page turner? Visit the Manasquan Public Library Book Sale for great prices on a huge variety of books. You’ll find book bargains for the whole family, with hundreds of titles across all genres. All proceeds benefit the Manasquan Public Library.

April 21 to 25: Are your kids feeling crafty? Register your little artists for the Inspired Minds Spring Break Art Camp, a week of fine art projects and step by step instruction, in media such as painting, drawing, watercolor, collage and more! All levels welcome, with individualized attention given to each student. Visit inspiredmindsart. com or call 732-722-7166 for registration details!

Earthrise and Shine

BY DARREN MONROE

Chef Darren hosts various events, such as farm-to-table dinners and cooking classes throughout the Jersey Shore. He recently launched a small-batch soup company called Süp. For more information on where to get these sea-inspired, plant-based, hearty delicious jars of goodness, visit www.darrenmonroe.co or follow @supsoupco on Instagram.

I recently watched the short documentary called “Earthrise” about the 1968 Apollo 8 mission to orbit the moon. It was on this mission that the now famous photograph of the Earth appearing like a bright blue marble over the moon’s drab horizon was taken. The astronauts of Apollo 8 were not instructed to take pictures of Earth. The mission was to document, circumnavigate the moon and return to Earth in one piece. However, once out of Earth’s orbit and far enough away, the astronauts looked back at this glowing orb and each felt what they described as a profound sense of awe. Everything they’d ever known and loved resided on that small globe suspended in a dark void. It was small

enough that you could cover it with your thumb, one of them noted in an interview.

There was something about seeing the Earth from this vantage point that caused a deep, spiritual shift in their perspectives. These military men, hardly poets, recognized how insignificant human beings really are when set against the vast backdrop of space. The boundaries of countries vanished. The cultural differences that separate humans on Earth seemed ridiculous from a distance. This small blue marble is our shared home (the only one we got) and we are all, ultimately, just citizens of Planet Earth.

The powerful depiction of Earth’s beauty from space captured in the “Earthrise” photograph helped inspire the environmental movement and the creation of Earth Day in 1970. April 22nd is the 55th anniversary of Earth Day and, needless to say, there is still much work to be done.

I know I’m not alone when I say that this work can feel overwhelming and even hopeless in our current climate. Even so, I choose to advocate and mobilize the best way I know how: with story and food. As I recently heard a local nonprofit director say (shout out to Save Coastal Wildlife):It helps to think of your contribution to conservation, however small, as a single pixel among countless others. Together, these pixels make up a big, beautiful picture of positive change. Collectively, we can make a real difference.

To help do my part, this month I’m sharing a recipe full of vegetables, fruit

Food for thought with Chef Darren.

and plant-based protein that treads lightly on our planet. Did you know that curbing your consumption of animal protein, especially beef, can help reduce your carbon footprint significantly? Animal agriculture alone generates over 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions. That’s more than the world’s cars, trucks, planes and ships combined! Incorporating more plants into your diet isn’t just good for the planet but can be great for your health, too.

For these reasons, I encourage you to eat more plant-based foods and to do whatever you can this Earth Day and beyond to add your pixel to the patchwork of conservation. Help at a beach cleanup (Saltwater Warriors is a great local organization); plant a native garden (check out the book “Nature’s Best Hope”); reduce your use of single use plastics (watch “Buy Now: The Shopping Conspiracy” on Netflix). Together, let us celebrate our beautiful “blue marble” home and commit to protect her however we can. Here’s to Mother Earth! Cheers!

The Earthrise Spring Salad

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 cups spring mix lettuce

• 1/2 cup firm tofu, crumbled

• 1/2 cup blueberries

• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes

• 1 mini cucumber, coined

• 1/4 cup walnuts

• 2 tablespoons golden raisins

• A small handful of red onion slices

• Juice of 1 lime

Maple Mustard Vinaigrette:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (or vinegar of choice)

• 2 tablespoon maple syrup

• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• A pinch of black pepper

DIRECTIONS:

1. Split the salad ingredients between two bowls.

2. Whisk vinaigrette ingredients together in a bowl.

3. Top premade salads with dressing or toss all ingredients together in a large mixing bowl.

4. Enjoy!

Humor and Heart A 50-Year Romance

He popped the question. She threatened bodily harm. Half a century later, they’re still going strong.

It was the weekend before Memorial Day in 1972, and the warm air buzzed with the arrival of summer. On one side of the bar was 22-year-old George Hemmer, down the shore by way of Newark. Across the room was Judy Lape, down the shore by way of Bloomfield, out for a night with her girlfriends.

George and Judy had both gone to parochial schools, and even though they had friends in common, they had never actually met before that warm May night at the (now defunct) bar, Jerry Lynch’s in Belmar.

While their friends co-mingled, George struck up a conversation and asked Judy to dance. Since George stands about ten inches taller than Judy, he helped her onto a small platform, and they spent the rest of the night dancing

BY M+B STAFF

face to face. He thought it was going pretty well, until she refused to give him her phone number.

“She told me to look it up in the book,” says George. “I think she was being coy and wanted to see if I would put in the effort. So I looked it up and she finally agreed to go out with me.”

It was only after making plans for their first date that George remembered a prior obligation happening on the very same night. And because Judy had already been playing hard to get, he didn’t want to cancel or postpone. So on the night of their first date, after George picked up Judy in his 1962 Buick, he explained to her that he needed to make a quick pit stop.

“Once we were both in the car, he said, ‘I forgot to mention something, I’m

supposed to stop at a bachelor party,’” says Judy with a laugh. “But instead of waiting in the car, I opted to go into the party with him. And at first, some of his friends thought that I was the entertainment.”

Following that brief detour, George and Judy went out to dinner. More dates followed during a carefree summer at the Jersey Shore. George’s family had a house in Manasquan; Judy was renting a summer house with friends in Spring Lake. Their relationship became romantic. But not exactly exclusive.

“Friday nights we’d be on our own with our respective friends, and Saturday nights were date nights,” says George. “But there were no chains on either of us, and unless we were on an official date, we were on our own.”

April Fool’s Date

The story of George and Judy almost ended 50 years ago. By the spring of 1975, a lot of their friends were settling down and getting married. But after a few years of casual dating, George and Judy had still never made it exclusive.

And Judy was ready to move on. By the time April 1975 arrived, she wasn’t even speaking to George. “We were fighting on and off,” says Judy. “And most of the time, those fights were about him not making a commitment.”

But George didn’t want to lose her. “I didn’t want her to get away or to go back to Jerry Lynch’s on her own.”

April 1, 1975, was the day that George finally decided to make things official. That day, he tried calling Judy at the Hasbrouck Heights school where she was working.

At first, she refused his calls. When he finally got her on the line, Judy reluctantly agreed to meet up.

That night, George took Judy to dinner at the Star Tavern, a popular pizzeria in Orange, New Jersey. “You didn’t have to call anybody, you just knew all your friends were going to be there,” says Judy.

After a few drinks, George got down on one knee and popped the question. “I said, ‘You better not be fooling me,’” recalls Judy, “and I might not have said it that nicely.”

To hear George tell it, Judy threatened bodily harm if he ever tried to retract the proposal as an April Fool’s Joke. But more importantly, she said yes. Immediately following the proposal, they visited both his and her parents to break the good news. “I made him tell our parents that very same night,” says Judy, “because

then I figured he couldn’t back out.”

The Hemmers were married on July 4, 1975, at St. Valentine’s Church in Bloomfield, officiated by two priests who were friends of George’s. The weather was beautiful, and the reception was held at White Eagle Manor, for a party of about 200 people.

In lieu of a honeymoon, George and Judy opted to drive straight to Manasquan, where George had recently bought a house. “We’re both beach people. And we said to each other, ‘Why should we go anywhere else for a honeymoon when we could be spending summer in Manasquan?’”

Their Manasquan-based honeymoon must have been pretty romantic, because nine months and 13 days after the wedding, the Hemmers’ first two kids were born.

Opposite page, from left: St. Patrick’s Day 2024; Judy and George Hemmer, February 2025; George and Judy in the wild, 2012; Halloween 2018. This page, from left: Judy and George Hemmer, July 1975; Judy and George Hemmer, February 2025.

The Family Expands

Twins Heather and George Junior were born in April 1976, followed by Amber in December 1978, Peter in November 1982 and Elise in September 1991. George spent 38 years in federal law enforcement, including many years with the secret service. Judy was a grammar school teacher, with periods of time spent at home to raise the five children.

Today, the Hemmers have eight grandkids and a ninth on the way. George and Judy remain very close with their kids, and their kids with each other. “Family is a mainstay,” says George. “Our kids mean everything to us.”

In late June of this year, the Hemmers will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary, with a party planned at the very same venue of their original reception. (The White Eagle Manor has since been renamed The Brookside Banquets.)

Considering their story all began with a less-than-exclusive summer romance, the fifty-year mark is an incredible milestone. “I think the secret is having common values and being committed to family,” says George. “Along with a sense of humor. You have to laugh a lot.”

“You have to have patience and understanding,” says Judy. “Along with good humor!”

For any young couples who are thinking about taking the plunge, George has a piece of advice: “Wait ‘til you’re 30! When we were 25, we thought we were old. But it doesn’t hurt to wait a few years until you’re established.”

As for that commitment-phobic kid that he used to be, back in the day? “I would say to that kid hold on tight. It’s going to be a ride. You have to have patience and a sense of humor,” says George. “But I would do it all over again.”

Top: The Hemmer family, circa 2019. Bottom: The Hemmer family; George Junior, Amber, Judy, Elise, George Senior, Heather and Peter.

THE MONDALE CHRISTMAS PARTY

What’s it like being married to a secret service agent? George Hemmer shares an anecdote that encapsulates the highs and lows (sometimes in the same night) of being married to a federal agent.

“In 1978, I was transferred from New York City to Washington, DC, and assigned to the Vice Presidential Protective Division. Jimmy Carter was the president and Walter Mondale was the vice president.

That year, we welcomed our third child, Amber, who was born in December.

At the time, it was customary for Mondale and his wife, Joan, to host a Christmas reception for their respective details at the Naval Observatory, which is the vice president’s residence.

That first year, Judy was unable to attend because we had the baby and two-year-old twins to deal with.

The next year, Judy was determined to make an appearance at the party. She had a new dress, and we had a babysitter. But I screwed up the time by an hour—and we lived an hour from DC.

Nevertheless, I coaxed her into the car, and we arrived just as the Marine Band was packing up and the guests were leaving.

Judy was demoralized, and I was facing a long ride home. Then, Mrs. Mondale saw me and asked me where I had been.

She then brought the two of us into the sitting room, where her husband had just taken off his tie, and the two of us had a private audience with the vice president and his wife for about half an hour.

Thanks to Mrs. Mondale, the night was saved, and Judy left with a happy memory.

Mrs. Mondale had recently written a cooking book, which I got Judy for that Christmas. She personalized it for Judy with the following inscription: Dear Judy, How can you stand your husband? Joan Mondale.”

The Hemmers with President Richard Nixon in 1984.

No Pup Left Behind

Melissa Melyan has helped over 200 lost dogs find their way home and she’s just getting started.

As a lifelong animal lover, Melissa Melyan has always taken it to heart when a local pet goes missing. That feeling intensified in 2013 after she adopted her beloved boxer Sadie. Today, thanks to Melyan and her dedicated group of volunteers, missing pets from across the Jersey Shore can find their way safely back home.

Melyan is the founder of Sadie’s Lost Dog Search and Rescue, a strictly volunteer organization that has been helping families reunite with their missing pets since 2017. Her tireless efforts all began with one spontaneous gesture about eight years ago.

BY MOLLY MECHLER

“I saw a post for a lost dog and got a knot in my stomach,” says Melyan. “I couldn’t imagine the family’s pain, and I wanted to do anything I could to help.”

Even though she didn’t know them well, she called the family and offered to join their search. When their dog was safely returned, Melyan was there to witness the overwhelming joy of the owners, and she knew that she had found a new calling. Over the next several years, Melyan would volunteer her efforts whenever similar posts appeared on social media. Sadie often joined her on these searches.

In 2022, Melyan began taking Sadie to obedience classes. After she’d mastered obedience skills, Sadie was invited to a search and rescue class, for the sake of assessing her potential. Once it was determined that she had the necessary aptitudes, Melyan began Sadie’s scent training. “She was a natural. She picked up on commands and cues and learned to distinguish scents right away.”

By 2022, Melyan and Sadie were using her newly acquired scent training skills in the field. Together, they launched Sadie’s Lost Dog Search and Rescue.

Growing The Team

In December 2022, Melyan expanded her team, first enlisting partner Dianne Vitale, and later Dianne’s husband Mike Vitale. Soon, they were joined by dedicated volunteers Maria Santos and Debra Altschiller. Together, they’ve made it their mission to locate as many missing dogs as possible across Ocean and parts of Monmouth Counties.

The team follows a strict search and rescue protocol, working closely with family members to gather as much information as possible before determining a search area. Once on the job, the team doesn’t stop looking until a pet is returned to their owner.

In many cases, careful traps are set. “We use 100% humane traps lined with

burlap, towels or clothing from the family,” says Melyan. “To lure the animals in, we use the strongest-smelling foods, like hot dogs, bacon and chicken.”

“My team and I have families, jobs and other responsibilities, but we make it our priority to find time to search for missing dogs,” says Melyan. “Most often, we find ourselves out in the middle of the night, following leads and sightings. We do this out of love, not for any accolades or praise. The biggest reward is seeing the smiles on a family’s face and knowing we played a part in bringing their pet home.”

Tragically, Sadie fell ill and passed away in August 2023. The loss was heartbreaking, but Melyan continues her work in Sadie’s honor. “She is still helping from above.”

Opposite page, left: Melissa Melyan and Sadie. Right: Another tearful reunion. This page, clockwise from center: Sadie tracking a scent; Sadie assists with a rescue; Lady reunites with her family at approximately 3 a.m.; Volunteer

Debra Altschiller and her dog Jackson; Melissa, Diane and Sadie, with the newly recovered Penny.

Paws and Effects

According to the American Humane Society, approximately 10 million pets go missing in the US every year. Unfortunately, not all cases have a happy ending. Some animals are never found, while others are mistaken for strays and end up in shelters. Additionally, with the abundance of streams, lakes and ponds in Ocean and Monmouth Counties, missing dogs are often at risk of drowning.

Melyan carries the weight of these cases with her every day. Even though some cases can be heartbreaking, she finds the strength to continue searching, knowing it could mean the difference between loss and reunion. To date, Sadie’s Lost Dog Search and Rescue has successfully helped to recover over 200 missing dogs, a testament to the team’s unwavering dedication and commitment.

In some cases, results are quick. One of

their fastest recent trappings occurred in two days, when a dog returned home on its own, drawn to the smell of food and to its owner’s familiar scent.

Other cases can take longer. One of their longest searches lasted eight weeks, when a Pomeranian named Lady escaped from a pet sitter’s house and ran across three different towns. After eight harrowing weeks on the run, Lady was successfully trapped on a farm and returned to her family.

Melyan is grateful for the support of neighbors, friends and family. But to our readers, she can’t stress this enough: Never chase a missing dog. Chasing or calling out can cause the dog to panic and run further, making the search even more difficult. Instead, she advises people to remain calm, sit down, if possible, observe from a distance, note their location and report

sightings immediately.

In these cases, a good first step is creating and distributing flyers where the dog was last seen. Check with neighbors, especially those with Ring cameras or security footage. Clothing and foods with familiar scents should be placed outside the dog’s home. Contact police departments and local shelters and spread the word with detailed social media posts.

Every case is different, but acting swiftly and strategically helps bring lost pets home. To learn more about their remarkable success stories, follow Sadie’s Lost Dog Search and Rescue on Facebook. Their contact information is available online, if one of your furry friends ever goes missing.

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.

Left and bottom right: Casanova was a stray who was abandoned until the Sadie’s team helped recover him and find him a home.

WHAT TO

DO IF YOUR PET GOES MISSING:

1. Stay calm and take immediate action.

2. Don’t chase!

3. Leave out familiar scents: Place unwashed clothing, bedding or food outside your home.

4. Alert your neighbors: Ask them to check their yards, garages and security cameras.

5. Make flyers: Include a clear photo, contact info and the location last seen.

6. Post on social media: Share in the local community and lost pet groups.

7. Notify shelters and authorities: Call police departments, animal control, local vets and shelters.

8. Call an expert.

9. Microchipping your pet in advance is highly recommended. See our next feature for details!

Top: Sadie taking a break. Right: Cooper went missing in 2023, but was humanely trapped and rescued. Left: Cooper returns home.

A Few Furry Favorites

In honor of National Pet Day, we rounded up some of the most camera-friendly pooches in town—and some tips on how to protect them.

BY M+B STAFF

Let’s face it, dogs have the life. And to be a Jersey Shore dog is probably the best life any mutt could imagine. In honor of National Pet Day (April 11) we’ve rounded up glamour shots from some of the most photogenic four-legged furballs in town. If you’re a dog’s best friend, consider some of the ways that you can help keep the pooch population safe and healthy.

It begins with a chip

Microchipping your dog is one of the best ways to ensure their safe return if they ever get lost. Unlike collars and tags, which can fall off or be removed, a microchip provides a permanent form of identification that links your pet to you.

A typical microchip is about the size of a grain of rice, implanted under your dog’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. Each microchip contains a unique identification number that is

linked to a database with your contact information. If your lost pet is found and scanned at a shelter or veterinary clinic, the microchip number will lead to your registered details.

The procedure is quick and simple, similar to a routine vaccination. A veterinarian or trained technician inserts the microchip using a syringe-like device. The process takes only a few seconds and causes minimal discomfort, much like a regular shot. Once implanted, the microchip remains in place for the rest of your dog’s life.

Most veterinary clinics offer microchipping services, and many animal shelters and pet adoption centers insist on them. Some pet stores and mobile vet clinics also provide this service. The cost typically ranges from $25 to $50, and some shelters even offer free microchips with adoption.

Adopt don’t shop

Speaking of adoptions: The next time you’re looking for a new best friend, consider visiting a shelter instead of a breeder. It’s not just economical, it’s the opportunity to save a life. Each year, millions of dogs enter shelters, and many face euthanasia due to overcrowding and limited resources. By choosing to adopt, you provide a second chance to a deserving animal, directly reducing the number of homeless pets.

Additionally, adopting from a shelter helps combat unethical breeding practices, such as puppy mills, where dogs are often kept in deplorable conditions. By opting to adopt, you discourage these inhumane operations and support organizations dedicated to animal welfare.

Just a few years ago, Bo was hungry and homeless. Now, he loves his home on the Manasquan River!

Top row, from left: Zoe, courtesy of Meghan Foster. Atlas, from Manasquan. Milo, from Manasquan. Middle row, from left: Dinero, also known as Piglet, was rescued from the dangerous, alligator-infested swamps of the Florida Everglades and now lives his best life in Belmar; Hank is a two-year-old Portuguese Water Dog from Manasquan who loves the summer. Bottom row, from left: Toby Prindiville likes to play peekaboo at the Manasquan Inlet retaining wall; Millie is a Cavapoo from Spring Lake. (Middle name: Vanilli.) Raleigh was rescued from a shelter in North Carolina and named after his hometown. Today, he loves living at the Jersey Shore!

From the Stage to the Studio

Dance runs in her family and shaped her life. Now, Jackie Jackson is inspiring a new generation of dancers.

BY MOLLY MECHLER

Dance is more than just movement. It’s a powerful form of self-expression that doesn’t require words. It’s an international language that connects people, cultures and traditions. From the graceful twirls of ballet to the rhythmic beats of hip-hop, dance tells stories, conveys emotions and brings people together. Whether performed on grand stages, in bustling streets or at joyous celebrations, dance can unite, inspire and entertain. In honor of International Dance Day on April 29th, we caught up with Jackie Jackson, the assistant director of Grace Kelly Studio, who is not only juggling five-month-old twins but inspiring students every day.

How did you get into dance?

I didn’t really have a choice! My Aunt Kelly McEvoy, owner and artistic director of Grace Kelly Studio, (lovingly named after her daughter, who is pursuing her own love of dance as a senior in college) introduced me to dance before I could walk, taking me to her Mommy and Me classes. My family is originally from Pennsylvania, where my aunt had her first studio. After she moved, I took classes at her Brielle Grace Kelly Studio every summer. Although I participated in other sports at school, dance was always my first love. Eventually, I focused entirely on dancing. Kelly has been my biggest role model and inspiration, shaping not only my technique but also my passion for the art. I owe so much to her and feel incredibly grateful to follow in her footsteps.

INTERVIEW WITH JACKIE JACKSON

Jackie Jackson, photo by Emily Kline.

Did you study dance in college?

Yes! I attended DeSales University and graduated in 2016 with a B.A. in Dance and Business Administration. I always knew I wanted to perform professionally and teach at the studio. After graduating, I began teaching part-time while continuing to pursue my passion for dance. I moved here full-time in 2020.

What do you get from dance?

Everyone has something they’re good at; some people have multiple talents. But dance has always been my talent. It’s something I do for myself. It is my own personal space, my time to focus on myself. When I performed, I felt that sense of personal fulfillment. Now, that same feeling has shifted into teaching and choreographing. Seeing my students grow and express themselves through dance gives me the same joy I once felt on stage.

Did you ever have stage fright?

Yes. At my very first recital at age 3, I didn’t move at all. I just stood there and scowled at my dad in the itchy costume.

Have you ever had any serious dance-related injuries?

Yes! In college, I suffered a hip injury. Determined to perform, I pushed through the pain and ultimately made the injury worse. It was a hard lesson, but it changed how I approach dance. Now, as a teacher, I always encourage my students to listen to their bodies and prioritize their health.

Where have you performed?

During college, I completed a mentorship with the J Chen Project, a contemporary dance company in New York City. After graduating, I was offered a position with the company. I’ve also had the opportunity to perform with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Mook Dance Company, both based in New York City.

What is your favorite genre?

Ballet is my favorite. I have strong ballet training and attended summer intensive training at American Ballet Theatre, as well as LINES Contemporary Ballet Company in San Francisco. The movements speak to me in a way no other style does. I also have a strong appreciation for modern dance. When choreographing, I love to blend the two genres together whenever possible. Their movements complement each other beautifully and create a unique and expressive style.

Do you have a favorite ballet?

Definitely “The Nutcracker,” especially the New York City Ballet’s performance at Lincoln Center. It’s a Christmastime staple for me. I saw it at the Pennsylvania Ballet this year, where a friend of mine performed, and I danced in productions of “The Nutcracker” when I was younger, so it reminds me of my youth.

Emily Lafferty, Brielle Elementary School

Favorite classical music piece?

I’m drawn to instrumental string music. I always incorporate it in my contemporary ballet pieces. I especially like Ezio Bosso, who was an Italian composer.

What is your favorite music to use for your choreography and classes?

We have a fun tradition where the kids write an artist’s name on a slip of paper. At the beginning of each class, someone pulls out a slip and shares the artist for us to dance to for the entire session. The kids love this activity. I always try to cater to their interests by incorporating artists they enjoy, such as Mumford & Sons, Coldplay and Noah Kahan. It’s important

to me to keep the music relatable to their interests and likes. However, I always make sure we use clean versions of the songs.

What is your personal favorite song to dance to?

Currently, I love “22 (OVER SooN)” by Bon Iver and use it in my classes all the time.

Who is the best singer/dancer, living or dead?

That is a tough one! I don’t think I can say who is the best. But, as a young aspiring ballet dancer, I have personally been super inspired by Michaela DePrince. It was amazing to watch

her success. She appeared in the dance documentary “First Position.” She passed away Sept. 10, 2024, way too young.

What singer/musician has the best backup dancers?

I think Taylor Swift puts on an excellent performance. Her dancers are incredibly well-rounded, seamlessly transitioning between genres. It’s impressive to see them shift from hip-hop in one song to contemporary in the next.

“Dirty Dancing,” “Footloose” or “Flashdance?”

“Footloose!” I love the musical.

Misty Copeland. Thoughts?

Love her! She has greatly impacted the dance world, inspiring dancers of color and dancers from many different genres. I hope she continues to make a positive impact!

What singer/musician has the best backup dancers?

Suppose you’re at a wedding, and the dance floor is empty. What’s the best song to get the party started?

I’m partial to “Come on Eileen” by Dexys Midnight Runners and The Emerald Express. When it comes on, I head right to the dance floor.

What’s happening lately at Grace Kelly Studio?

We are very lucky to have Riley Schmidt teaching with us; she’s a local graduate from Manasquan High School who is pursuing her degree in dance. We offer ballet, tap jazz, modern, pointe, acro gymnastics, hip-hop, lyrical and contemporary classes for students ages 2 to 18. Just recently, we had a father and daughter come and learn their “first dance” for her wedding. It was so cute!

How often are the recitals?

We hold two recitals each year at Manasquan High School: our ballet-based Holiday Show, The Magical Ornaments, and our Spring Recital, which features a new theme every year. In addition to these performances, we also showcase our dancers at various community events and locations.

Any other exciting events on the calendar?

This summer, our Shore Feet Dance Company dancers will have the incredible opportunity to participate in “Dance The World” at Disney World! They’ll be in the parade at the Magic Kingdom and performing at Disney Springs. We’ll be teaching choreography provided by Disney to ensure that our routines align with their signature style. It’s an unforgettable experience, and we can’t wait to bring the magic of dance to the most magical place on earth!

What do you love most about working with students?

My favorite part about dance is how it brings people together. As a teacher and a mother, I aim to continue fostering a sense of community among my students.

THE TOP TEN MOST POPULAR DANCE STYLES AROUND THE WORLD:

1. Ballet (France/Italy/Russia)

2. Hip-Hop (United States)

3. Salsa (Cuba/Puerto Rico)

4. Tango (Argentina/Uruguay)

5. Flamenco (Spain)

6. Breakdancing (United States)

7. Bollywood (India)

8. K-Pop Dance (South Korea)

9. Samba (Brazil)

10. Irish Step Dance (Ireland)

I’ve worked hard to create a safe, positive space where everyone feels welcome and supported. More than anything, I want my students to dance for themselves, to find joy, confidence and connection through movement.

Gr ace Kelly Studio accepts new students all year long. If you’re interested in beginning your dance journey, or if you’re an experienced dancer looking for a new studio, feel free to call or text them at 732-329-7972 or follow @ gracekellystudio for updates, class information and more.

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.

Morgan Feeney of Manasquan High School

SYST[EM] Athletics Philosophy

A strength training facility with a yes-minded philosophy.

If there’s one thing Emmy Simpkins believes in, it’s saying yes. Yes to pushing past limits, yes to trying new challenges and yes to becoming the strongest version of yourself. As the owner of SYST[EM] Athletics in Manasquan, Emmy has built a community-driven gym where strength training is the foundation but empowerment is the true goal.

A former Division I soccer player at Rutgers, Emmy has always been active. But in 2011, she found herself losing her captain’s band and not able to pass a fitness test. Then she stepped into her first CrossFit class, only to be lapped by older women.

That moment lit a fire in her. She began training daily, even during soccer season,

BY MEGHAN SCHULTZEL

and eventually not only passed her fitness test but went on to become a competitive CrossFit athlete. She later co-owned CrossFit Speakeasy, before branching out on her own in November 2023 to launch SYST[EM] Athletics.

“Fitness is a vessel I get to use to empower others,” Emmy says. Originally from North Carolina, she now calls New Jersey her home and loves being part of the Jersey Shore community.

The “Yes” Philosophy

At SYST[EM] Athletics, the training philosophy is simple: Say yes. Emmy is assisted by a team of expert coaches, whose accolades are too numerous to cover in

just one article. Together, they believe that fitness should enhance every aspect of life. “Getting fit should help you enjoy life more: playing with your kids, spending time with your spouse, even excelling at work,” she says. This comprehensive approach creates a supportive atmosphere where members can set and achieve personal goals.

Strength Training, Not CrossFit

SYST[EM] Athletics is a strength training gym, not a CrossFit box. Their programming runs in 6-to-12-week cycles, designed by expert coaches to build strength safely and effectively. For beginners, they offer a structured onboarding process, spending the first two

to four weeks focusing on foundational movements to ensure proper technique and prevent injury.

This April, they’re launching SYST[EM] 101, a six-week program designed to help newcomers get comfortable in the gym. Participants will learn the basics of strength and conditioning, proper technique and even weight room etiquette. With only eight spots available and sessions held twice a week, it’s an intimate and supportive way to start a fitness journey.

A Growing Wellness Epicenter

SYST[EM] Athletics is more than just a gym. It’s evolving into a full-service wellness destination. While they already offer expert coaching and nutrition guidance, Emmy and her partner Maria have big plans. Next year, they’ll introduce a wellness section featuring sauna and cold plunge therapy, creating a one-stop shop for fitness and recovery.

At the heart of it all is Emmy’s goal: To help every member become a high performer in all aspects of life—not just in the gym, but at work, at home and in their relationships. She believes that true fitness extends beyond lifting weights and is about improving overall well-being.

And speaking of growth, the SYST[EM] Athletics family is expanding in more ways than one: Emmy and Maria are expecting their first child in September. With a strong community, expert coaching and a philosophy that encourages saying yes to life’s challenges, SYST[EM] Athletics is redefining what it means to be fit. Ready to join? The door is open.

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.

WELLNESS WATCH UPCOMING EVENTS

When: Wednesdays, 6 a.m.

What: A Balanced Body Personal Training

Where: Manasquan High School Field House Register: Manasquan Community Pass

When: Saturdays and Sundays, March through April

What: Kids Learn to Ice Skate Where: Jersey Shore Arena Register: learntoskateusa.com

When: Tuesdays, 7:30 a.m.

What: Yoga with Colleen McCrone Where: Manasquan Community Center Register: Manasquan Community Pass

When: April 6

What: Bubbakoo’s Taco Trot 5K

Where: Wall Register: runsignup.com

When: April 26

What: The Beer Run 5K

Where: Allaire State Park Register: thebeerrunnj.com

When: April 27

What: JSRC Lake Como Spring Break 5K

Where: Lake Como Register: runsignup.com Register NOW before these summer events sell out:

When: May 11

What: Run the Hook5K/10K

Where: Sandy Hook Register: runthehooknj.com

When: May 23 and 24

What: Spring Lake 5 & Kids Race

Where: Spring Lake Register: runsignup.com

When: June 21

What: SGT Nutter 5K

Where: Sea Girt Register: runsignup.com

When: August 30

What: Belmar 5 Mile Run

Where: Belmar Register: runsignup.com

When: September 6

What: Brielle Day Hill & Dale 10K

Challenge

Where: Brielle Register: runsignup.com

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Molly Mechler 848-469-2111

Bossone Family, est 1964 hours, tues-thurs 11am-11pm, friday sat 11am-midnight, sun 12 noon 11pm address, 15 Broad street manasquan 08736 Italian Restaurant/Pizza..... chicken, veal, seafood, steaks, dine delivery/order online through now" app

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Bookstores Are Magic!

Independent Bookstore Day is Saturday, April 26. In lieu of our monthly reviews, we’re celebrating the power of independent bookstores and their value in our community.

Whenever my family and I travel, one of the first things I search for is a bookstore, specifically an independently owned one. Independent bookstores, or “indies,” bring something to the table that big box stores like Barnes & Noble or Target do not.

Indies are warm and cozy, with the fresh smell of paper and ink, and you can typically hear the buzz of book talk among the patrons. As you browse the shelves, you will most likely find little notes and personal recommendations from staﬀ members. I love a good Read With Jenna pick or New York Times bestseller, but I discover a certain kind of joy when an under the radar book has been read and hand sold to me by a fellow bookseller.

Luckily for me and the majority of this magazine’s readers, we have BookTowne, our community bookstore by the sea, right on Main Street in Manasquan. Even luckier

BY LEIGH MALLIN

for me, I get to work there. Now, don’t get me wrong, I use the term “work” loosely because I have a genuine passion for all things book-related, hence the reason I seek out bookstores while on vacation!

Part of the job

An indie bookseller wears many hats. We don’t just sit behind the register and read all day, although that does sound delightful.

Aside from the day-to-day tasks of receiving and shelving books and merchandising bookish gifts, it’s also our job to connect with the community through email newsletters, our website and social media, along with fulfilling online orders, facilitating book clubs (we have two!) and pitching and hosting author events.

Although we aren’t sitting around reading on the job everyday, being well read does play a vital role in the life of a bookseller.

If you’ve ever stepped into BookTowne, you’ve probably noticed a curated section where we house staﬀ picks, and you’ll find our “shelf talkers” peppered along the shelves. This, in my opinion, is what sets an indie bookstore apart from a corporate one.

Anyone can recommend a Reese’s Book Club title or a Book of the Month pick, both of which are great options, but have you ever heard of Elspeth Barker’s delightfully strange little book “O Caledonia” or Tiﬀany McDaniel’s darkly beautiful novel “Betty?” Indie booksellers sell what they love, are honest in their opinions and always support the books they believe in. It’s only within the walls of an independently owned bookshop where you can find these hidden gems.

A welcoming community

Bookstores, and the stories they hold, are a

INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE FACTS:

• The largest independent bookstore is Powell’s City of Books in Portland, Oregon. Coming in at a whopping 68,000 square feet, Powell’s is the size of an entire city block. The shop claims to house more than a million books!

• Founded in 1809, Andover Bookstore is the oldest independently owned bookstore in the country. It’s been serving the Andover, Massachusetts community for over 200 years.

type of therapy. Whether I’m recommending an “Elephant and Piggie” book to a young emerging reader, or the gorgeous staﬀ favorite “Maybe” to a grandparent for their grandchild, I feel like I’m making a small diﬀerence in that customer’s day. Or perhaps I’m putting “A Heart That Works” into the hands of someone who has just lost a loved one or explaining that “Keep Moving” will change the life of someone going through a rough patch. My hope is that I’m shining some light onto an otherwise dark time through the books I’m suggesting.

We often have BookTowne customers ask, “How is the business holding up in the age of Amazon?” Or they simply can’t believe that we’re still flourishing as a brick-and-mortar, mom-and-pop bookshop. And my reaction is always the same: It’s the people that keep us going. We live in such an incredible area, filled with people who appreciate small businesses and who want to see those businesses thrive.

When you shop at an indie as opposed to a chain or online retailer, you are stimulating the local economy and ensuring the stability of these beloved community landmarks. Stop in and say hello to us at BookTowne on April 26 for Indie Bookstore Day, and

you’ll be sure to find some yummy treats, cool giveaways and engaging activities for the kids. Whatever your reading heart desires, we are here for you. From Emily Henry and Colleen Hoover to James McBride and Richard Powers, poetry and essays to current events and history, we have something for everyone. If you can’t make it into the store in person, our website, booktowne.com, makes it easy to shop from home. Or check out bookshop. org, which supports local bookstores. Both print and e-books are available for purchase, and they give a portion of their profits back to the indie of your choice.

Prefer audiobooks? (Yes, listening to books is considered reading!) Instead of purchasing your audiobooks through Audible and giving money to Amazon, try libro.fm, which, like bookshop.org, gives back to your local independent bookstore.

2024-2025 Independent Bookstore Ambassador Trevor Noah sums up my sentiments perfectly: “Independent bookstores connect readers to ideas and stories, and they are the rare physical place in our communities where we can connect with each other.”

Leigh Mallin is a bookseller at BookTowne.

• New York City’s The Strand has 18 miles of new, used and rare books.

• Since the pandemic, the American Booksellers Association has seen nearly 600 new independent bookstores open across the country; New Jersey has had about half a dozen new indies open in the past year alone.

• Ann Patchett, Judy Blume and Jeff Kinney are among the plethora of authors who own or co-own independent bookstores.

• The tiny and adorable town of Hobart, New York is home to “the Hobart Book Village” which has seven independent bookstores on its Main Street. Bookstores are safe spaces, cultural hubs, centers for exploration and imagination and the closest thing to time machines that we’ll ever see. To keep these necessary institutions alive, we must support them however and whenever we can!

Thanks again to all of the readers who shared pictures of their pets for this month’s issue. Here’s Hank, a two-year-old Portuguese Water Dog from Manasquan, living up to his name and getting ready for the summer. Do you have any particularly photogenic four-legged friends? Send your pets’ best glamour shots to: hello@manasquan-brielle.com, and they might just make a future issue!