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Publisher’s Note
Dear Readers,
It’s the most wonderful time of the year!
While summers at the Jersey Shore are spectacular, there’s something truly magical about the holiday season that transports us all back to childhood. Now, experiencing it as a parent, that joy is even more profound. Watching the community come together to celebrate is a heartwarming reminder of the special spirit that defines Spring Lake and Sea Girt.
Downtown Spring Lake is the perfect, picturesque spot to immerse yourself in the sights, lights and shopping at our cherished small businesses. Local traditions make this time of year truly
special, and one of our favorites is the annual production of “Scrooge” at the Spring Lake Theatre. Each year, a cast of around 100 actors, half of them local children, pour their hearts into bringing this beloved story to life. Their dedication, from Halloween to Christmas, never fails to bring joy to the community.
In this month’s issue, we’re delighted to highlight another treasured tradition, “The Nutcracker,” presented by Miss Pat and her team at the Spring Lake School of Dance. This beautiful show, prepared since the summer, enchants audiences and embodies the holiday spirit. We also had the pleasure of meeting Tom Hagaman, the newest owner of Spring Lake Pizza. Not only does his team make fantastic food, but Tom is also an accomplished artist. Be sure to admire his artwork when you stop by for a slice!
December is a time for celebration, togetherness and gratitude, and there are many ways to give back to the community during this season. We’re excited to share some of these opportunities with you in this edition. Here’s to a joyful and meaningful holiday season!
Warm wishes for a wonderful holiday,
Brynn Coleman Publisher
Spring Lake MAGAZINE
Editor & Publisher
Brynn Coleman
Group Publisher
Jodi Bruker
Writers
Kerry Serzan
Danielle Kutcher
Kate Czyzewski
Maria O’Donnell
Mary Catherine McCarthy
Lead Photographer and
Editorial Coordinator
Michelle Wolfe
Photographer
Vincent Dicks
Michael Scotto
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
Spring Lake magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Spring Lake and Sea Girt, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Copyright 2024 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.
PHOTOGRAPH BY MICHELLE WOLFE
Daniel
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Elevate Your Home With Mary Catherine McCarthy
Thoughtful and innovative design is at the heart of MCM’s philosophy.
During a major renovation project of an entire home over a two-year period, clients often experience decision fatigue. A renovation project or building a new home might require clients to consider more than 600 to 1000 choices before starting construction. And even more decisions will be made throughout the process.
An example of the questions clients face in a bathroom design (often an area of major renovation) are: What color, shape and finish should I choose for tile? What about on the floors, walls and ceiling? What color grout (which can be a variety of colors more than typical gray or white)?
Mary Catherine McCarthy, LLC guides clients through every step of the process providing samples on site to see in the everchanging light throughout the day.
Here are some of the questions to consider when designing your home: What are the current trends? What is a classic selection? Do I want to express a certain emotion or atmosphere in this room? Or do we select a joyful wallpaper in the nursery and a relaxing vibe in the guest rooms?
Here at the Jersey Shore, there is the timeless beach theme that reflects the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean surrounding us. How do we include that on the request
list? Will this project ever end?
The challenge for the designer is to distill these decisions during the initial project intake period and to follow a thread that can be woven through the entire home in a unifying and exciting way. A designer should provide clear choices that inspire thought and confidence as the project unfolds. The interior designer, in coordination with architects and construction trades, must prepare the client with timelines and ways to manage the disruption to the home while changes slowly unfold.
When possible, we introduce unique
custom artwork that is created for the client in collaboration with local artists and artisans that reflects the home’s unique new vision. As illustrated in the photos, the renovation project for this home located on Wreck Pond includes a diptych of two views of the pond created by local Artist Wendy placed on either side of the new family room fireplace.
Mary Catherine McCarthy, LLC collaborated with the talented team of Creative Design and Maintenance, LLC to present to the client the design and
selected New England Quarry Ledgestone with light gray joints for new fireplace wall, which extends from floor to ceiling, adding texture and presence to the family room. We also envisioned a “Swim Spa” for the yard space, which can be seen from the primary bathroom. The element was completed in the final phase of the home renovation.
The mantle also brought a warmth to the room, which encouraged taking a seat on the new Burton James sofa festooned with custom pillows created and made by
the team at our firm. Each fabric selected for this room is family friendly and luxurious. The backdrop for the seating is custom panels hung on a brushed stainless rod. To continue the thread, we have designed a console, cocktail and drink glass tables. All are made with three unique metals with embellishments that reference a classic modern blend.
The primary bathroom continues to expand on additions of seashell pearl tile details and marble tile floors. The custom art tile provided by Monmouth St. Tile adds an additional artisan element to the shower wall. The pearl silver fish handles and the crystal handles are the special details on the vanity. The engagement ring designed chandelier lights the way to a luxurious soaking tub which offers a glimpse of the swim Swim Spa.
As a part of the design discipline, our teams strive to create unique designs with our clients, unveiling the personality of the client and extend the vision and the dream of a beautiful place to relax near the sea.
Mary Catherine McCarthy, LLC has been designing interiors in NYC and NJ for more than 30 years. For more than 50 years she and her family have been visiting the beaches of Sea Girt and Spring Lake. She currently resides in Sea Girt.
Christmas Fund for Families
This year, consider participating in the joy of Christmas by helping others.
Each November, the Spring Lake Community House sends out its annual letter to a team of waiting volunteers who help shop for, wrap and deliver gifts to families in need at Christmastime.
The letter always begins the same way: with a quote, penned in 1897 by Francis Pharcellus Church in a New York Sun editorial, in response to a letter sent in by eight-year-old reader Virginia O’Hanlon in which she asks the newspaper staff, “Is there a Santa Claus?”
For more than 36 years, the Spring Lake Community House has strived to embody the tender sentiment expressed in this editor’s thoughtful response: “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its beauty and joy.”
The generosity of its supporters and volunteers has made it possible for the fund to share the magic of Christmas with thousands of families in more than 15 local communities.
With the help of school nurses, teachers, staff at Mercy Center and other community groups, the fund locates and helps children and families who need help. The fund then provides these families with special gifts, clothing, food coupons and common necessities.
A family can be sponsored for a donation of $350. A donation in any amount is appreciated and helps to continue the success of the fund, said its chairman Mary Jane Burke. Because the fund covers all its operating costs, 100% of donations directly benefit families.
“We cannot do this without the help of our volunteers,” Burke said. “We welcome volunteers to shop and wrap gifts as well as deliver them. Many of our volunteers involve their own families in the project, promoting the spirit of giving in their children.”
Donations to the Christmas Fund can be made on the Spring Lake Theatre website under “Support.”
To learn more or to become a volunteer, call the Spring Lake Memorial Community House at (732) 449 4530 and leave a message for Mary Jane Burke.
“There is never enough time to say or do all the things we wish. The thing is to do as much as you can in the time that you have.” – the Ghost of Christmas Present to Ebenezer Scrooge
A Comprehensive Guide to Restoring Your Smile
John P. Soliman, DMD, MD, takes you through how dental implants can help you achieve the smile you want.
BY JOHN P. SOLIMAN,
DMD, MD
Dental implants have revolutionized the field of restorative dentistry, offering a long-lasting, natural looking solution for replacing missing teeth. In this article, we will delve into the world of dental implants, discussing their benefits, the implantation process and the recovery period.
The Advantages of Dental Implants
Dental implants provide numerous advantages over traditional tooth replacement options. They are designed to mimic the natural tooth structure, both in appearance and function. By integrating with the jawbone, implants offer stability and prevent bone loss, preserving facial structure. Furthermore, implants can enhance
speech, restore chewing efficiency and boost self-confidence.
The Dental Implant Procedure
The dental implant procedure is typically performed in several stages and requires the expertise of an experienced oral surgeon or implant specialist. The process begins with a comprehensive dental examination, including X-rays and digital imaging, to assess the jawbone’s health and determine the optimal treatment plan.
The first stage of the procedure involves placing the dental implant, which is a small titanium post, into the jawbone surgically. Over the next few months, the implant bonds with the bone through a process called osseointegration, providing a solid
foundation for the prosthetic tooth. Once the implant has fused with the bone, an abutment is attached to the implant. The abutment serves as a connector between the implant and the prosthetic tooth. Finally, a custom-made crown is securely placed on the abutment, creating a natural-looking and fully functional tooth.
Recovery and Healing
Following dental implant surgery, a short period of healing is necessary for optimal results. During this time, the implant gradually fuses with the jawbone. Patients may experience some swelling, discomfort and minor bleeding, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication and proper oral hygiene practices. The duration of the healing process varies for each individual, but it generally takes several months for the implant to fully integrate with the bone. Throughout this period, regular check-ups with the dental professional are crucial to monitor the healing progress.
Dental implants offer a remarkable solution for individuals seeking to restore their smile and regain optimal oral functionality. With their lifelike appearance and long-term benefits, dental implants have become the gold standard in tooth replacement options. By consulting with a skilled dental professional, patients can embark on a transformative journey towards a confident and radiant smile.
Dr. Soliman is dedicated to providing patients with exceptional care and personalized treatment plans. His passion for restoring smiles has made him a trusted expert in the field of dental implants.
A Taste of Italy
La Mondina brings lively Italian cuisine to the Jersey Shore community.
BY MARIA O’DONNELL
In 2019, restaurateur Carmine Derosa opened La Mondina in Brielle, and it quickly became a local favorite with its rustic-chic decor and vibrant atmosphere. La Mondina’s success continues to grow, thanks to its inviting ambiance and dynamic menu.
Some menu staples have remained popular over time, like the cold artichoke appetizer with fresh lemon and herbs and the Caesar salad, which stands out as one of the best at the Shore. La Mondina also keeps things interesting with a special menu that changes monthly, offering a range of unique dishes. Recent highlights include the King Salmon crudo, featuring thinly sliced salmon topped with apple walnut gremolata, buttermilk vinaigrette, crispy leeks and a hint of chili oil. Fresh and bursting with flavor, this dish was hard to resist. Another favorite was the raw scallop crudo—so delicious it was ordered twice instead of dinner!
Bread service is a treat, as they bring it warm with whole roasted garlic in olive oil—a perfect start to an Italian meal. The rigatoni vodka is also exceptional,
with a sauce that hits all the right notes in color, flavor and consistency. Another standout on the dinner menu is the grilled, succulent pork chop with spicy peppers—a crowd favorite for a reason. And no meal is complete without their homemade cinnamon-sugar doughnuts: six warm, soft bites served with three dipping sauces (crème anglaise, salted caramel and Nutella). These sweet treats practically melt in your mouth!
La Mondina’s wine list is equally impressive, offering a variety of reds by the glass, including a deliciously earthy Nebbiolo. They’re even considering bringing back their sparkling rosé by the glass. The cocktail menu is creative and seasonally inspired, with monthly cocktail specials like “Don’t be Chai,” a cocktail made with apple brandy, salted caramel vodka, house made chai simple syrup and lemon, served over ice—truly autumn in a glass.
A great restaurant combines excellent food with a special ambiance, and La Mondina delivers on both fronts. The moment you walk in, you’re greeted with
a warm and lively atmosphere. Friendly hostesses welcome guests with a smile, and the attentive staff work hard to make each evening feel special. The restaurant features a large bar where you can order from the full menu, as well as a cozy lounge area with small tables for two. For larger groups, there are family-style tables and traditional dining seating, along with patio seating for those who enjoy dining outdoors. Although there’s no view, the lively mood, laughter and delicious food offer plenty to enjoy. The restaurant is beautifully decorated for the holidays and will be the perfect setting to celebrate with friends and family.
La Mondina is a must-try that belongs on every dining rotation. It promises a memorable experience and a taste of Italy right in Brielle.
La Mondina is located at 110 Union Ave, Brielle, NJ. (732) 612 8331
Maria O’Donnell, a Spring Lake mom of two and passionate food writer can be found on Instagram @ foodwritergirl
More Than Just a Slice
Spring Lake Pizza goes beyond the classic fare.
BY MARIA O’DONNELL
When interviewing Spring Lake Pizza’s new owner, Tom Hagaman, I expected a fresh interior, the inviting aroma of pizza and perhaps a local or two. While these elements were all present, a surprise awaited: Tom’s original artwork, reminiscent of Van Gogh, gracing the walls and valued at tens of thousands of dollars.
Tom is not only a painter but also a cook, sculptor and former school athlete—a modern Renaissance man. He is a self-taught and gifted artist, whose work has been showcased in local galleries and continues to appear in solo exhibitions. Nowadays, his paintings adorn the pizzeria and can also be found down the street at the real estate office of his friend, Walter McGowan.
Above: Tom Hagaman with store manager Shane Donnelly and chefs Eugene Gonzalez and Luis Ruiz.
Beyond painting
Tom has previously designed elaborate residential pool waterfalls in the style of Disney resorts, bringing artistry to backyards throughout Monmouth County. His work is also visible in Spring Lake itself, from the intricate dolphin topiaries on Third Avenue to the flowering arrangements around the town clock, created in collaboration with Rich Clayton and Dawn McDonough through his work with the Spring Lake Business Improvement District. Tom also credits local businesses for their contributions to beautifying the downtown with blooms throughout spring and summer, noting that the town grants him free artistic control to craft these floral displays.
And then there’s the pizza
A staple for over 31 years, Spring Lake Pizza is now under Tom’s ownership for the past year. He retained two key talents, Chef Eugene Gonzalez, who has been with the pizzeria for 24 years, and Chef
Luis Ruiz, a long-time team member.
Tom’s appreciation for restaurants and his extensive background as a former manager of ready-made foods at Winn Dixie and other grocery stores prepared him well for ownership. He views the pizzeria as an extension of his art, encouraging his chefs to innovate and create new enticing dishes. A customer favorite is the cheesesteak, prepared with freshly sliced, high-quality beef and cheeses, served on Brooklyn bread. Another popular dish is the Calamari Louis, which Tom recommends as a must-try.
A family-owned business, Tom operates the pizzeria with the help of his nephew, Shane Donnelly, the store manager, and his niece, Ella Donnelly, the assistant manager. He has remodeled the interior to reflect a New York-style pizzeria with clean lines and vibrant pops of color.
The pizzeria is known for hosting pizza-making parties for kids’ birthdays, and during winter, specials are offered from Monday to Thursday. Open seven
days a week year-round (excluding major holidays), from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Spring Lake Pizza also provides delivery as far west as Wall and South to Point Pleasant. Additionally, Tom serves as a vendor for “pizza day” at Spring Lake’s local school, H.W. Mountz.
Tom Hagaman’s contributions to food, art and the town’s beauty are warmly appreciated by the community. Thank you, Tom, for sharing your talents and creativity with us all!
Maria O’Donnell, a Spring Lake mom of two and passionate food writer can be found on Instagram @foodwritergirl.
A Local Christmas Classic
Spring Lake School of Dance carries on the tradition of “The Nutcracker” for over 30 years.
BY KERRY SERZAN
When you’re an artist performing in the Spring Lake School of Dance’s annual Nutcracker ballet, the Christmas season begins unusually early each year.
Dancers who enroll in the upcoming Nutcracker performance begin their training with a two-week camp in July, followed by weekly Saturday rehearsals leading up to the show.
Those months of dedication by the school’s dancers and staff have a charming outcome: Each year, the school presents two weekend matinees—usually a Saturday and Sunday in late November or early December—delighting audiences of all ages who return season after season to experience the beauty, wonder and joy of this local Christmas tradition that began in 1988.
Putting the pieces together
“The Nutcracker and Everything Christmas” dazzles once again this year at Manasquan’s Algonquin Arts Theatre (its fourth consecutive year at the venue).
The show is comprised of two acts: Act One features the timeless Nutcracker ballet and the evocative music of Tchaikovsky; Act Two showcases tap, jazz, contemporary, hip-hop and Radio City Rockette-inspired numbers.
The show choreography blends the combined creative effort of all the school’s faculty. “Some of the choreography has stayed sacred, while other things can evolve with time,” said Pat Tully Osborn, owner and founder of the dance school and former Radio City Rockette.
The show also features wonderful costumes, set pieces, scenery and props—
many built by parents over the years— while the Algonquin’s designated lighting and sound crew further heightens the quality of the production.
Eighty-two of the Spring Lake School of Dance’s dedicated and talented dancers performed in the 2024 iteration. They range in age from five to 18. Some have years of dance experience, others are taking center stage for the first time, and all have an important part to play.
“Everyone gets to participate to the best of their ability. All our Nutcracker dancers are encouraged to also study ballet,” said Mrs. Osborn, who goes by Miss Pat at her studio. “Ballet is a good foundation for everyone—it builds discipline, coordination, strength, flexibility, confidence and appreciation for movement and music.”
Top-notch training
The school is one of four dance schools in the state permitted to teach the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) ballet syllabus. The United Kingdom-based RAD originated in 1920s and is currently the most influential dance teacher training and examining body for classical ballet in the world. Miss Pat attended courses at Vasser University in 1993 to 1994 to obtain initial certification, and professional development is required each year.
Two of the school’s instructors are RAD certified, three hold college degrees in theater and dance and two are certified by Dance Educators of America, Inc.
A history of excellence
Miss Pat performed for 15 years with the Rockettes, appeared in the film “Annie,” and has performed at Walt Disney World, in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the 1988 Super Bowl halftime show and the Emmy-winning “Night of 100 Stars” 1982 TV special celebrating the centennial of the Actors’ Fund of America.
“When I was five years old, I saw the
Rockettes perform and decided I wanted to be one, and my dream came true,” said Miss Pat, who grew up in Elizabeth Union and has a degree in theater and dance from Montclair State. While still working as a Rockette, she began to work on her next dream: opening a dance school.
Miss Pat opened the Spring Lake School of Dance in 1986. The first Nutcracker was a studio performance at the original Brighton Plaza location in 1988. The next year, she married Jeff Osborn and together they began to look for a new, bigger home for the growing school.
In 1991 they bought an abandoned lot on a dead-end street dotted with discarded washing machines.
They got to work building a dance
studio with a full basement, workspace and their own home on the second floor. Almost 35 years later, at the onceimaginary studio at 515 Passaic Ave. now stands a very real place where many young people’s dreams come true.
The studio offers two fully equipped air-conditioned dance studios with floor systems designed specifically for dancers to absorb shock and reduce impact.
At this “very traditional school, dance is a performance, not a competition,” Miss Pat said. And from parents and teachers who grew up dancing here, it makes it feel like a big family. Along with their cherished Nutcracker, highlights from the dance year calendar include performing at the Spring Lake Irish and
Italian festivals and the June recital.
“Each student is an individual,” she said. “We offer concerned, individual attention in a positive, encouraging atmosphere. The goal is to provide a safe and positive setting where proper technique is stressed and where each developing dancer can reach their potential through a safe and progressive approach. Emphasis is placed on correct technique. Improved posture, coordination, flexibility and a stronger, healthier body are just a few of the benefits that our students achieve.”
Miss Pat and her dancers during one of their many rehearsals for the Nutcracker.
Kerry Serzan is a local freelance writer and mom of four who is delighted to be living near and working in one of the most beautiful places on Earth.
Taking Center Stage
Spring Lake Heights School student Nick Barrington shines in roles near and far.
BY KERRY SERZAN
Local performer Nick Barrington is back at home having just wrapped a successful month-long theatrical run of the new musical “Knoxville.”
Based on the book “A Death in the Family” by James Agee, “Knoxville” is a story about Agee reflecting on the death of his father when the author was six. The show ran from Sept. 4 through the 22 at the Clarence Brown Theatre at the University of Tennessee.
Nick played the role of Rufus, who is young Agee at the age he lost his father. “Although I luckily couldn’t relate to Rufus about the loss of his dad, I could relate to his relationship with his dad and all the fun they had together,” Barrington said.
“Not only was it a lot of fun, but I learned a lot! I was the only kid in the show, but I did have an understudy that I got to spend some time with,” Barrington said. “I spent most of my time with the adults. The adults were all super talented and very kind and helpful to me. Even though the show was very serious at times, they also helped make it fun by joking around and making everyone laugh.”
Challenges
One of the biggest challenges Barrington had to overcome was being away from home and family; his parents Nicki and Scott, siblings Carly and Jimmy and their dog Brody. “I missed my family and my dog a lot. I was lucky to have family come out and visit, but it was really hard when they left,” He said.
The Barringtons made the most of these times together, making fun family memories in Knoxville and the surrounding area.
“My favorite was a ropes and ziplining course,” Barrington recalls. “We also took a couple trips to the Great Smoky Mountains, and I liked
that a lot. We hiked to a waterfall, and I even saw bears!”
Barrington’s parents first had an inkling their son would be a performer at an early age when they noticed him singing and dancing along to “The Greatest Showman.” His preschool teacher pointed out how much he loved singing in the school shows. He started
theater classes at age five at Spring Lake Theatre & Dance Academy (SLTDA) and has continued ever since.
Other endeavors
In addition to his workshop shows, Barrington has been cast in some of Spring Lake Theatre’s bigger mainstage shows including
Opposite page: Barrington during a performance of “A Christmas Story: The Play” at the Bristol Riverside Theatre in December of 2023, photograph by Mark Gavin.
Top: Barrington with McKinley Merrit during a performance of “Knoxville” at the Clarence Brown Theatre during September of 2024, photograph by Ella Marston. Bottom: The Barrington Family (from right): Scott, Nicki, Nick, Carly and Jimmy.
“Scrooge,” “Mary Poppins” and “Peter Pan.”
“The first time I was part of a bigger production was ‘Scrooge.’ I liked being able to work with all of the adults that were so talented,” Barrington said.
“‘Mary Poppins’ was my first bigger role in a show, and I loved it. I had so much fun with all of the people working on the show and the music and dances were spectacular!”
A year ago, Barrington landed his first professional role and played Ralphie in “A Christmas Story: The Play” in Bristol, Pennsylvania. “It
was scary at first, but once I got to know everyone it was such a fun experience!”
Barrington said his favorite thing about performing is being able to emotionally connect with an audience. “In ‘Knoxville’ I was able to make the audience laugh and cry. I like making people feel things.”
His least favorite part of acting? Memorizing lines.
Beyond theater
Barrington also enjoys learning and growing as an actor with each opportunity. “I learned a lot about
listening and reacting from our director Josh Rhodes. Also, during one performance, an understudy had to come on, and I shared some scenes with her. I learned a lot about supporting a castmate and working together in the moment.”
In his spare time, he likes to play the ukulele, write stories and spend time with family and friends.
His mom Nicki said: “This has been an adventure for our family, a wonderful opportunity and learning experience for Nick and also a sacrifice for everyone. It has been difficult to be separated from one another, but we are all so proud of what Nick has accomplished and look forward to seeing what is next.”
The family offer their gratitude to Barrington’s talent agency, the Carson Adler Agency, along with their beloved community theatre where he got his start.
“Everyone at Spring Lake Theatre & Dance have been so helpful and encouraging throughout this process,” she said. “Not only has Nick learned so much from them over the years, but the entire SLTDA community has been so extremely supportive during all of this. We are very grateful.”
Barrington will be performing as Tiny Tim in Spring Lake Theatre’s “Scrooge” for select performances this season.
Kerry Serzan is a local freelance writer and mom of four who is delighted to be living near and working in one of the most beautiful places on Earth.
Top: Barrington during a performance of “Mary Poppins” at Spring Lake Theatre with Regina Ippolito and Everly Coleman in March 2023.
Bottom: Barrington during a performance of “Peter Pan” at Spring Lake Theatre with (from left) Nick D’Ambrosia, Emily Davis, Tracy Strong, Cooper Lantz, Barrington and Cassidy Terracciano. Photographs by Michael Scotto.
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The Unique Charm of Spring Lake
Local leaders of Spring Lake come together to share the wonderful aspects of our community.
BY DANIELLE KUTCHER
INTERVIEW WITH KATHY HEINE, DAWN MCDONOUGH AND LIZ CAPONE
The Christmas Train Village. “Scrooge” at the Spring Lake Community House. The Annual Holiday Soiree. There is a buzz in the air with these current events that give Spring Lake its unique coastal charm while also building a strong sense of community. However, Spring Lake’s calendar of events is more than just a list of activities. It is a reflection of the passion, pride and heart of the people who live, work and visit there. Each gathering is a celebration of the town they love.
What sets Spring Lake apart is the teamwork and the dedication of the community in creating memorable, vibrant events year-round. There is magic that happens behind the scenes, thanks to the leadership of Kathy Heine (director of The Spring Lake Recreation Department), Dawn McDonough (director of The Spring Lake Business Improvement District), and Liz Capone (executive director of the Great Spring Lake Chamber of Commerce).
With the support of the mayor, borough council and town workers, these groups collaborate seamlessly, ensuring that each occasion is special. We caught up with Liz, Dawn and Kathy, who provided an inside look as to what Spring Lake has going on this holiday season.
What makes shopping in Spring Lake special?
Spring Lake is more than just a charming coastal town; it’s a place where shopping becomes an experience that’s as unique as it is enjoyable. Spring Lake’s downtown is a shopper’s dream: A picturesque main street lined with family-owned boutiques, specialty stores and cozy cafés. With its tree-lined sidewalks, inviting storefronts and classic smalltown feel, the atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming. It’s the kind of place where you can park your car, wander from shop to shop, grab a bite to eat and lose track of time as you discover hidden treasures around every corner.
• Unique Boutiques & Local Finds
Shopping in Spring Lake is nothing like a trip to the mall. Here, every store has its own personality, offering carefully curated selections that reflect the spirit and creativity of local owners. From upscale women’s fashion to handcrafted jewelry, coastal-inspired home decor and specialty food items, there’s something for every taste.
• A Personal Shopping Experience
The business owners in Spring Lake pride themselves on delivering exceptional customer service. Many of the shopkeepers are locals themselves, often greeting customers by name and going out of their way to provide a personalized experience. They love to share the stories behind their products, offer recommendations and make you feel like part of the community. This personal touch is what makes shopping in Spring Lake feel warm, memorable and distinctly different from shopping anywhere else.
PHOTOGRAPH BY MICHAEL SCOTTO
How does Spring Lake give back?
In Spring Lake, giving back is part of our core values. We’re proud to support our town, residents and local charities through a variety of programs, donations and initiatives. Many of the town’s events include charitable components—whether it’s raising funds, collecting goods or dedicating proceeds to local organizations that makes a difference.
The Greater Spring Lake Chamber of Commerce contributes by hosting events like the Citizen of the Year that not only celebrates a member of the community but also gives the proceeds to a chosen charity. The annual ornament sales fund Chamber-led events bring foot traffic and vibrancy to the downtown area, benefiting local business owners.
The SLBID and Recreation Department also work closely with charities and local causes, hosting community-focused events encouraging residents to get involved and give back. The SLBID sponsors the Annual Santa Paddle, Witches Paddle and Christmas Train Village to draw visitors to the downtown, and bring the community together and raise awareness to other Monmouth County Organizations that are doing amazing work for our local communities.
Every year the Spring Lake Community House Christmas Fund lends a hand at creating Christmas for those who may need a little extra help. Working on the Christmas Fund is truly a labor of love for all volunteers. The fund was able to help 180 families last year (over 360 children). Donations are accepted and appreciated in any amount, and $350 “adopts” a whole family for the season. Donations can be made on the Spring Lake Theatre website under “support.”
What are some current events in Spring Lake?
The Spring Lake Recreation Department celebrated the grand opening of their new building, a space that will bring the community even closer with activities and events for all ages.
As we step into the holiday season, the town is transforming into a festive wonderland. From cheerful decorations soon to be adorning the streets to special seasonal events, there is a sense of joy and anticipation in the air.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS!
November 30th:
Small Business Saturday
November 30th (6 p.m.):
The tree lighting, with special presentations from the Spring Lake Community House
December 1 to December 22 (Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.): Santa will be strolling through town
December 1 to December 31 (12 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday): The Christmas Train Village open at the Duggan Building
December 1 and 21 (12 p.m. to 3 p.m.): Holiday jazz music at the clock
December 5 (4 p.m. to 8 p.m.):
The Annual Holiday Soiree downtown
December 5 (7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.):
Opening night of “Scrooge” at the Community House (additional dates and times available)
December 6 (6 p.m.):
Sea Girt Tree Lighting and Holiday Market at Library Plaza
December 26 (5 p.m.): The Menorah Lighting
For more information on Spring Lake and their events calendar, go to springlakechamber.org, SeaGirt-nj.gov or call (732) 449 0577 or (732) 449 0037.
Holiday Reads for the Family
“Christmas is a day of meaning and traditions, a special day spent in the warm circle of family and friends.” – Margaret Thatcher
At Thunder Road Books, we get so excited about this time of year. Recommending books that the whole family can enjoy warms our hearts.
“The Wizard of Oz” by
L. Frank Baum
Yes, we know many of you, like us, probably still have your original editions of “The Wizrd of Oz.” This year, Penguin Classics released this stunning edition with sprayed edges and colored endpapers designed with an Ex Libris bookplate. This is the perfect addition to those that collect special editions!
BY KATE CZYZEWSKI
“A Christmas Memory” by Truman Capote
“A Christmas Memory” is a book I read every single Christmas season. Truman recounts his younger years with his best friend, an old-maid cousin named Miss Sook. The story is warmhearted, light and enjoyable. Miss Sook is in her 60s, and Truman just a child. The story shows us that sometimes friendship can be found in the most unlikely places.
“A Mouse Family Christmas” by Deborah Underwood
Our booksellers love books that families can keep in their homes and adopt as “modern classics.”
In “A Mouse Family Christmas,” a mouse family lives in a human family’s attic. When they see the main Christmas tree of the house needs some decorating and care, they spring into action. The perfect Christmas Eve family read!
“Eight Sweet Nights” by
Charlotte Offsay
During the holidays, it is such a treasure to see families gather and share traditions. In “Eight Sweet Nights,” a family celebrated Hannukah by sharing various foods and recipes with each other. This book is particularly special because not only is it a “sweet” story, but it also includes notes on each page to give a brief explanation of words found at Hanukkah.
“The Littlest Christmas Tree” by
Jane Chapman
If author Jane Chapman has a new book, we’re reading it! Jane is famous for her Bear series and in “The Littlest Christmas Tree,” all our favorite woodland creatures return to help little Bear, Cubby, make the smallest tree the most decorated tree for the holiday! This story shows readers that the smallest of gestures can leave a big impact!
Have
Breaking Records
Spring Lake residents Donna and Geoff Barrett celebrated with their son, Christian Brothers Academy senior, Joe Barrett, after his individual course record-breaking run at the Shore Conference Cross Country meet at Ocean County Park on Oct. 24. Barrett and his teammates continue their championship season with the ultimate goal of bringing home the title of Nike Cross National Champions on Dec. 7 in Portland, Oregon.
