Spring Lake June 2023

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Photo Credit: MJ Scotto Photography

The Spirit of Spring Lake

be found! We are also proud to shine a spotlight on the Sea Girt Fire Company, a group of local volunteers who selflessly dedicate their time and efforts to keep the community safe.

I am especially excited to celebrate the Spring Lake Community House, a cherished venue that holds a significant place in so many of our families’ hearts. Like many others, my daughter has found confidence and joy on their stage for many years. Miss Pat and her team have created a haven for artists and performers, nurturing creativity and inspiring generations. Don’t miss the information on how you can join their centennial celebrations over the July 4th weekend.

Spring Lake MAGAZINE

Editor & Publisher

Brynn Coleman

Group Publisher

Jodi Bruker

Art Director

Sue Park

Copy Editor

Nancy Fass

Writers

Justine Bouton

Dallas Hlatky

Judith Jones-Ambrosini

Amanda Moore

Cynthia A. Murray

Maria O’Donnell

Kerry Serzan

Lead Photographer

Michelle Wolfe

Photographer

Michael Scotto

WAINSCOT MEDIA

Chairman

Carroll V. Dowden

President and CEO

Mark Dowden

VP, Group Publisher, Regional

BY

Summer is almost upon us. We are gearing up for a vibrant and eventful June! This month, we find ourselves immersed in a whirlwind of activities, from dance recitals and graduations to the heartwarming celebrations of Father’s Day. It’s a month that truly embodies the joy and spirit of community, as families come together to honor their loved ones and create unforgettable memories.

In this edition of Spring Lake, we begin with a feature on the Sea Girt Yacht Club, a place that piques curiosity with its intriguing name, even though yachts are nowhere to

As always, we aim to capture the spirit of Spring Lake and Sea Girt and bring it to life within the pages of our magazine. We would like to thank those who have sent in story ideas. There is no way we could bring you these stories without your tips!

I would also like to encourage you to submit photos for the Photo Op page. We would love to see the area through your eyes. Shoot me an email at hello@springlakemagazine.com with any photos and editorial ideas or submissions.

Thank you for your continued support. May June be filled with joy, laughter and many moments that turn into treasured memories!

Warm regards,

Brynn Coleman Publisher

Thomas Flannery

VP, Content Strategy

Maria Regan

Creative Director

Kijoo Kim

Advertising Services Director

Jacquelynn Fischer

Operations Director

Catherine Rosario

Production Designer

Chris Ferrante

Print Production Manager

Fern Meshulam Spring

PHOTOGRAPH

MICHELLE WOLFE

Around Town

BY JUSTINE BOUTON

THUNDER ROAD BOOKS AUTHOR EVENTS

Thunder Road Books will host two events with best-selling authors this month, both at Spring Lake Community House. More details and tickets at www.thunderroadbooks.com.

On June 13, enjoy a Q&A followed by a meet and greet with Fiona Davis. Tickets include a signed copy of her novel “The Spectacular.”

On June 17, Viola Shipman will speak about her new release “Famous in a Small Town.” Tickets include a signed book and a meet and greet with the author.

SURFSIDE FROZEN CUSTARD + DON KAHUNAS MEXICAN CUISINE

Surfside Frozen Custard of Washington Blvd. has opened a second location at the Sea Girt Pavilion and expanded its offerings with Don Kahuna’s Mexican Cuisine. Surfside & Don Kahunas is now open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. with breakfast, lunch and dinner options for dining out on the boardwalk or beyond. The new grub spot offers Birria plates, a flavorful stew typically served on tacos. The menu also includes countless vegetarian options and the delicious frozen custard the Sea Girt community has come to love.

GLIMPSE HISTORY IN LOCAL LANDMARKS

On June 8, the Spring Lake Historical Society will hold its 42nd Annual Historical House Tour, highlighting iconic Spring Lake landmarks. Six houses and four public sites will be stops on the self-guided tour including: Spring Lake Community House, Sundae Times Ice Cream Parlor, St. Catharine’s Church, Spring Lake Historical Society Museum, historical homes around town and one new home. The event will be held from 10 am to 3 pm. Tickets are $45 in advance (before June 7) and $50 on the tour day. Prior to tour day, tickets can be purchased at Kate & Company (1100 3rd Ave.), Bain’s Hardware (1301 3rd Ave.) and J. McLaughlin (1306 3rd Ave.). Questions? Call the Spring Lake Historical Society at (732) 449-0772.

MILE SAULA AT KELLY-MCKENNA GALLERY

“Mile Saula: Kaleidoscope” is the first solo exhibition at Spring Lake’s Kelly-McKenna Gallery. Running through June 23, the exhibition showcases 13 new paintings by Saula, a Serbian artist who explores the unconscious mind. According to the gallery’s website:

“Saula’s work is characterized not by abstractions, but by ingressions—rigorous investigations of our psychological interiority that provide fresh insights into our shared and individual experiences.”

A 30-YEAR LEGACY OF CHOCOLATE

Third Avenue Chocolate Shoppe celebrates its second year with owner Joyce Harris, but 30 years of chocolate made with the same locally beloved recipes. Harris, who started working at the shop when she was just 14 years old, learned all the homemade recipes and techniques from its previous owner, chocolatier Mike Magyar. Harris now carries on Third Avenue Chocolate Shoppe’s 30-year legacy while also fulfilling her childhood dream of owning a candy store. Stop into the shop at 1118 3rd Avenue to congratulate Joyce on her milestone—and treat your sweet tooth while you’re there.

DINE SEASIDE IN AVON-BY-THE-SEA

The owners of Ameila’s by the Sea in Spring Lake, Carmen and Liam Moloney, have opened a new restaurant, The Promenade, on the boardwalk in Avon-by-the-Sea. The sit-down restaurant features a raw bar and sushi, as well as dishes like red snapper, pan-seared scallops, braised short rib, pork chops and more, while a concession window offers quick meals. Open daily from 7 am to 10 pm, The Promenade is convenient for boardwalk strolls, shore day trips and evenings on the beach.

Justine Bouton is an intern at Spring Lake magazine and a rising senior at Rutgers University. This July she will play Charlotte in Spring Lake Theatre’s production of “Cinderella.”

We welcome ideas for Spring Lake and Sea Girt events and happenings to feature on this page. Please send to hello@springlakemagazine.com

PHOTOGRAPHS, FROM LEFT: MICHELLE WOLFE; MADELINE EARLE; BRYNN COLEMAN; CAITLIN MCKENNA; MICHELLE WOLFE; JOYCE HARRIS; CARMEN MALONEY.

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Beach Read

Sea Girt author Vincent Dicks investigates the mystery of a pioneering surfer girl from 1888.

BY AMANDA MOORE

INTERVIEW WITH VINCENT DICKS

“Forsaken Kings: Emma Spreckels—The Surfer of Asbury Park” is the third book in six years by Sea Girt author Vincent Dicks. It tells the life story of a woman who was the daughter of a sugar tycoon named Claus Spreckels. Raised in San Francisco and Hawaii, Emma appeared on the East Coast in 1888 just as she was coming of age—and learning the true nature of her father. We asked Dicks about his books (available at Amazon.com, Vincentdicks.com or Instagram @tjvvin12) and the allure of local history.

PHOTOGRAPHY, FROM LEFT: MICHELLE WOLFE; MICHAEL SCOTTO (2)

What makes you want to write stories rooted in the Jersey Shore’s past?

I have fond summer memories of childhood vacations at the Shore. Looking at homes in Sea Girt in 2011, I began researching the origins of some area properties. I got hooked on learning about past owners and those who summered here, diving into the history of buildings like the Parker House, the now gone Beacon House, the Ocean House and the Essex and Sussex. My first two books, “Sea Girt: The Last Town at the Jersey Shore” and “The Women Who Saved Spring Lake” came from stories I wanted to share with the people of these great communities.

What inspired you to write “Forsaken Kings”?

There is a mystery among surf historians: a much-discussed woodcut of a girl surfing on a plank in Asbury Park published in an 1888 edition of an early sporting magazine called the National Police Gazette. The article called her “Sandwich Island Girl” but mentioned no names. Clues, however, included that the girl’s father was a wealthy planter of the Hawaiian Islands. If true, the story would push the first documented surfing on the East Coast back by a decade, move the location from North Carolina to New Jersey and make the pioneer a woman instead of a man.

I took it as a personal challenge to solve the mystery. There were limited plantation owners in Hawaii back then, and their movements are well documented. I tracked each owner and manager as well as their daughters and concluded that Emma Spreckels at age 18 was the likely surfer. Surf historians supported my findings. I then focused on learning about Emma’s life and tracking her movements around the world—and it’s quite a story.

Who is the “Forsaken Kings” audience?

Anyone interested in stories about strong women, tough fathers, choosing between wealth and love, escaping to a different world in the 1880s or glimpsing the sunset of the Hawaiian Kingdom. Readers of the Brontë sisters and Jane Austen will find a kindred spirit in my Emma. It’s my first attempt at historical fiction, but other than invented dialogue, almost every situation in the book really happened.

What has surprised you in creating your books?

How easily the past relates to modern times. Common themes include the downside of greed, real estate tricks, the dangers of too much debt and an appreciation of those who care about beautiful beach communities.

How long does it take you to produce a book?

Two to four years. My books are densely packed with detail, much of it drawn from contemporary sources. It takes time to read, dig deep and separate truth from the agenda of earlier writers. The press has not changed all that much in 150 years. Because I’m independent, my only deadlines are those I set for myself.

What do you like to read?

My love for history is obvious. We can learn so much from others’ experiences. I enjoy fantasy if there is a great backstory. I read Tolkien’s “Lord of the Rings” each summer on the beach. I also stop at Thunder Road Books, BookTowne and our libraries weekly to find the next great story. We are lucky to have a community for readers.

What do you like to do when not writing?

I volunteer time as chairman of the Board of Governors at Saint Peter’s University Hospital in New Brunswick. I also watch the sunrise each morning, take photos and spend time with my grandchildren. I enjoy every aspect of living at the beach.

What’s your favorite part of being a writer?

Joy in discovering and sharing facts that have never been written about or are long forgotten. Appreciating those who came before us makes living here so much more enjoyable.

Amanda Moore is a former advertising manager at Group M in New York and lives in Manasquan Park.

Vincent Dicks, author of “Forsaken Kings: Emma Spreckels—The Surfer of Asbury Park,” prepares for his author talk at the Sea Girt Library in May.

Honoring Mark Zusi

Friends and family came from near and far for a friendly tournament celebrating his life.

BY KERRY SERZAN

Dozens of paddle tennis enthusiasts gathered at local courts on a recent Saturday to enjoy some friendly tournament competition and celebrate the life and legacy of a friend and loved one.

The Rock On Invitational held April 22 commemorated Mark Zusi, a well-known, beloved community member and avid paddle tennis player who passed away unexpectedly last year.

Event organizer Mark Leddy said the paddle tourney name derives from one of his late friend’s favorite catchphrases. News of the tournament spread quickly. Before long, Leddy said, more than 100 people had signed up to compete.

Players came from clubs all over the East Coast—some from as far as Miami, Maine and Vermont. All were Zusi’s family or friends. The event proved so popular that organizers had to secure courts in four locations: Crescent Park in Sea Girt, Marucci Park in Spring Lake, The Atlantic Club in Manasquan and Bay Head Tennis Club.

The tournament featured a style of play called scrambles, in which participants sign up as individual players rather than as a team. “This is highly unusual and unlike regular play but very much in keeping with the theme of our tournament,” Leddy said. “You registered to play not knowing who your partner was going to be—you just knew it would be a friend or family member of Mark’s.”

The Winners: Loved Ones

Organizers aimed to keep teams evenly matched while creating a mix that included young, old, neophytes and veterans.

The result was surprising: Teams in the finals featured players who had never before advanced that far. Finalists were determined individually by most games won. A large crowd gathered to watch the top four men and women play in a hotly contested final at The Atlantic Club.

In the end, all players’ names were inscribed on a memorial cup with no competition winners noted. The celebration concluded with a post-tourney party at Rod’s Tavern on Washington Boulevard.

The event also honored Mary Dougherty, Zusi’s aunt. A legendary player, teacher and advocate of the sport, Dougherty’s efforts made paddle tennis the popular, thriving local pastime it is today.

“It was one of the first warm days of spring and such a wonderful day with so many family members and friends of Mark’s gathered together,” Dougherty said. “It truly was very special.”

After this year’s successful event, some wondered if they could look forward to more fun, friendly competition next spring. Leddy answered, “Rock on.”

Kerry Serzan, a former staff member at H.W. Mountz School, is a freelance writer. She and her husband, Joe, got engaged on the bridal bridge and married at St. Catharine’s in 2011.

Mark Zusi’s siblings, Kenny Zusi and Christa Zusi Gorman

Mary Dougherty and her son Bobby Debbs.

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Celebrating a Century

Productions, exhibits and fond reflections mark the centennial of a local cultural institution.

BY KERRY SERZAN

You may have heard there’s always something wonderful happening where Madison, Brighton and Third Avenues meet. This year, there’s something historic, too: The Spring Lake Community House & Theatre is celebrating its 100th birthday.

Throughout 2023, a series of special events, concerts and celebrations will commemorate the centennial and usher in a new century of possibility for this glittering gem of a theater nestled a few blocks from the beach in Spring Lake.

Staging a Celebration

A visit to the iconic Spring Lake Community House feels like stepping into the pages of a storybook in which the narrative is still being written. A gift of philanthropist and Spring Lake mayor Oliver H. Brown, the building and grounds have been lovingly and meticulously maintained and are ready

to welcome guests to party in grand Spring Lake style.

On July 4, the official birthday, all are welcome to a Fourth of July block party at the Community House. This free event will take place from 3 to 7 p.m. and feature food, live music, dancing and special performances throughout the property, along with a Prohibition-era speakeasy, a dog parade and a bike/baby carriage/stroller decorating contest.

Upcoming Productions

It’s shaping up to be an enchanting summer with more upcoming productions and events: “Cinderella” opening July 6; “Peter Pan” opening Aug. 17; the 10th Annual Starlight Gala on Sept. 15; and the staging of “First Aide,” an original screenplay by standout local Frank Kineavy.

Autumn in Spring Lake will see “A Chorus Line” open on Oct. 13. A

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: SPRING LAKE HISTORICAL SOCIETY; MICHELLE WOLFE; MICHAEL SCOTTO

(2)

“It’s incredible to think all of this started with an idea someone had 100 years ago and now we’re here. I hope it will continue for 100 years or more to come.”

- Patricia Barry, executive director, Spring Lake Community House & Theatre Board of Trustees

third iteration of the commemorative concert series “Something Wonderful” will feature past and present stars of the Spring Lake stage on Nov. 11. And guests can stop in to see what’s cooking on the Spring Lake Kitchen Tour on Oct. 15.

Be sure not to miss the annual town tree lighting and visits with Santa Claus at the Community House on Nov. 25. Days later, Spring Lake’s beloved “Scrooge” will begin its 41st consecutive year delighting scores of theatergoers. It opens Nov. 30.

A Dream Realized

Aptly, the July 4 birthday bash will take place exactly one century after the Community House’s dedication in 1923, when Brown gifted the building and grounds to the citizens of Spring Lake in memory of veterans who served in the First World War. A generous visionary, Brown hoped his legacy would be a multifaceted space for the

community to gather and enjoy music, art, recreation, education, socialization and civic engagement.

Since that day, the stewards of Brown’s vision have worked to carry it through 10 decades of challenges and change, never ceasing to serve the town of Spring Lake and the larger community through its ongoing mission and programs.

Today the Community House is home to the Spring Lake Theatre Company, dance and theater programs for children and teens, and an Upper Gallery displaying fine art exhibitions. Each year, more than 17,000 patrons attend main stage productions at the historic 350-seat theater. The building houses the Spring Lake Public Library and serves as a meeting space for the Spring Lake Women’s Club, Garden Club, local book clubs and other organizations.

In addition to providing outstanding arts and education

programs, the Spring Lake Community House strives to serve the greater community. The organization donates opening-night proceeds of each of its productions to local charities, organizes a holiday drive dating back 35 years to serve hundreds of children in need and hosts outreach events throughout the year that benefit underserved families.

Looking Back and Ahead

Patricia Barry, executive director of the Board of Trustees, says the theater has blossomed over the years thanks to the generous support of its friends. Barry is herself a critical part of that story. In 1976, she helped lead the effort to revitalize the building and grounds and help make it the thriving, vibrant entity it is today, all while cultivating a community theater program that she likes to say is the finest south of Broadway.

“It’s incredible to think all of this started with an idea someone had 100 years ago and now here we are,” Barry says. “I hope it will continue for 100 years or more to come.”

Creative Director Reid Henderson, who auditioned at the theater in 2005 and has been performing there ever since, muses on how the place has changed over its history. “The theater has evolved from a community center to a venue for touring theatrical productions, to a home for amateur productions, to a place where we present professional-quality productions six times a year,” he says.

What hasn’t changed is the theater’s reliance on the generosity and support of people in the community. “They are the lifeblood of what we are doing, whether it be financial support or donation of time and talent,” Henderson says. “Oliver Brown donated $100,000 in 1922. He envisioned building a place to hone and nourish the arts in all its aspects. With the continued support of our many friends, patrons and donors, we can ensure that vision holds true for many decades to come.”

Photographs and videos commemorating the centennial are currently on display in the Upper Gallery. The exhibit can be viewed anytime the building is open to the public.

Visitors can reflect on Brown’s displayed, prophetic words—his vision for Spring Lake and all who enjoy it today: “The future of the Community House is in the hands of the people who use it and the friends that it makes for itself. I delight to think that in the years to come, perhaps 100 years or more from now, when this building is covered in ivy, surrounded by beautiful trees, flowers and shrubs, all within the sound of the old ocean’s roar, great towns will exist. For, in my opinion, this whole Jersey coast will be one vast city population—in winter as well as summer—with Spring Lake, perhaps, as the garden spot of it all.”

To learn more about the Spring Lake Community House & Theatre, the centennial celebration and the many wonderful productions and programs one can enjoy, visit www.springlaketheatre.com or call the box office at (732) 449-4530.

Kerry Serzan is a freelance writer who fell in love with this corner of the world so long ago that she can’t remember. She enjoys telling the stories of local people and places.

Photo above, left to right: Members of the creative team at Spring Lake Community House & Theatre—Andrew Ferrie, Kerry White, Andrew Dagostino, Jackie Drudy, Reid Henderson, Christine Baglivio and Justine Bouton. Photo at right: Executive Director Patricia Barry addresses the crowd during a performance.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHAEL SCOTTO (5); CREATIVE TEAM PHOTO BY ELLA FISCHER

A Fresh Take on Seafood

At Spring Lake Seafood, an innovative chef creates culinary adventures from locally sourced ingredients.

BY MARIA O’DONNELL

All the elements of a winning dining experience come together at Spring Lake Seafood (SLS), with thoughtfully sourced, sustainable ingredients and a vibe that will engage you from the moment you enter. But as with any great culinary journey, this one begins well before you walk in—with the cuisine and the chef behind it.

At the SLS helm, we find Bradley Rodriguez, a dynamic and innovative chef who is not afraid to ignite a blowtorch when he envisions seared trout rolls on cedar planks with spicy mayo, caramelized by flames and dotted with house-made nikiri sauce. Rodriguez’s culinary roots extend from kitchens in Puerto Rico and New Orleans to New Jersey. He is not afraid to be bold, brilliant and unabashed in his desire to create an experience for all your senses while holding true to his oneword, all-encompassing motto: “fresh.”

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHELLE WOLFE

Keeping It Local

Rodriguez founded SLS with his wife, Lula, to bring more from the shore to the shore table. He uses only fresh, local ingredients that are carefully sourced from family-owned businesses.

For his bounty of seafood dishes, Rodriguez hand-selects fish from Atlantic Offshore Fishery in Point Pleasant as well as from local fisherman, whose daily catches are varied and bountiful.

Land meats come from the Marx family, fifth-generation butchers in Monmouth County who provide organic and sustainable pork, chicken and beef.

Vegetables are not just garnish but are star-studded sides that celebrate the freshness of seasonal produce. Local farmer Chris Mumford grows SLS vegetables in Colts Neck and Vermont. Rodriguez recently started a culinary garden of his own at home, inspired by the many rewards he can reap from crops.

SLS also makes all pastas in-house daily, working with individual farmers to provide high-quality grains, dairy and other ingredients. Suppliers include Smiling Earth Farm in Long Branch, which provides mushrooms for a variety of earthy dishes.

A Never-Ending Story

Fresh flavors rooted in Spain, Italy and Japan are whipped together with a bit of French technique in a unique blend that belongs to SLS. Specialties include tuna pizza, buffalo calamari, mussels and fries, garlic shrimp and oysters Rockefeller.

Ever-changing and always creating, Rodriguez doesn’t stop innovating because he’s found a formula for success. Instead, he continues to create new experiences for the palate, which makes any restaurant exciting for locals and visitors alike.

Rodriguez recently added handcrafted sushi rolls to his menu, including tuna topped with caviar. Other sushi rolls offer a variety of fresh, local fish and house-made pickled cucumber.

Rodriguez is inspired by the journey each ingredient makes on its way to his kitchen. He crafts his food with respect and thoughtful regard for its origin and history, appreciating that these backstories are important not only to him but to diners. He wants customers to enjoy their favorite meals both warmed by authenticity and excited by his imprint.

Rodriguez is truly a gem in the culinary world, and what better place for his talent to shine than Spring Lake, the crown jewel of the Jersey Shore.

KEEPING IT FRESH AT HOME

For home chefs, Spring Lake Seafood has a fish market offering fresh, hand-selected seafood. Order online (www.slsnj.com/fish-market) by 10 p.m. and pick up your order the following day after 11 a.m.

Typically available:

• Fjord trout

• Lobster

• Day boat scallops

• Lucky Lime Oysters

• Ahi tuna

• Mussels

• White shrimp

• Calamari

• Little neck clams

• Fluke

Maria O’Donnell is a food and wine writer who lives in Spring Lake with her husband, Brendan, a Sea Girt native. She enjoys sharing recipes and tips on her Facebook page, “Cooking with Maria.”

Spring Lake Seafood founders Bradley and Lula Rodriguez are laser focused on offering fresh seafood to the community and supporting local fishermen and farmers. Chef Bradley’s specialties include tuna pizza, buffalo calamari, garlic shrimp and oysters Rockefeller.

Jack deCastro (blue jacket) and Ray Thorn (green shirt) have both served as commodore of the Sea Girt Yacht Club and are behind the mysterious appearance of flags on a patch of sand just east of Gull Island each summer.

Flags Ahoy!

BY DALLAS HLATKY

On low tide of Mother’s Day this year at 8:30 a.m., longtime Sea Girt residents Jack deCastro and Ray Thorn pushed a rowboat into the water from Perrine Boulevard in Manasquan, as they do most Sunday mornings, for their weekly exercise and enjoyment. They usually journey by kayak, but this morning they had a special mission: the 2023 flag raising at Flag Island. As seen from shore, their rowboat, with a large American flag flying from the helm, evoked George Washington crossing the Delaware.

If you’ve ever enjoyed a drink out on the patio of the Wharfside in Point Pleasant, you might have noticed an array of four flags flying proudly from a small sandbar across the way. This patch of sand just east of Gull Island, only visible at low tide, has been christened Flag Island by deCastro and Thorn, who affectionately and comedically refer to themselves as the Sea Girt Yacht Club (SGYC).

The two have been installing a group of flags on Flag Island before the start of every summer season for 25 to 30 years. Neither can remember exactly what year they started. And until now, the origin of the flags on Flag Island was a bit of a local mystery.

Though there may be no yachts in the SGYC, the pomp and circumstance of the organization is very real. There are T-shirts. There is a long-standing tradition of the flag ceremony. There is comradery and even a commodore. Although, neither Thorn nor deCastro could agree who’s currently in charge: The commodore’s epaulets are lost when a vessel is capsized, which happens every so often. But anyone at the 2023 ceremony would observe that deCastro is more of the showman, historian and orator, while Thorn, a plumber by trade, is more concerned with the nuts and bolts of the operation.

If you know deCastro and Thorn, it’s no surprise that they

started this spirited and patriotic tradition. Both are volunteer firemen in Sea Girt, and deCastro is a veteran. Ever the cheerful leader and host, deCastro introduces himself as “Jack deCastro, proud American.” But he has a glimmer in his eye and some self-awareness when it comes to their endeavor: “You have to understand,” he says, “we’re nutcakes!”

Although they’ve been doing this for decades, the two men continue to tinker with their systems and engineering. Initially, they started with just two flags but grew more ambitious as various themes required. This year they were met on Flag Island by friends Justin Hedges, Kristine Sassoon and their three young daughters. Hedges, a generation younger than the founding members, was quickly put to work on the digging and heavy lifting work. In short order, each flagpole was prepped, leveled and ready for the ceremony.

The flags are carefully curated every year according to a theme. The U.S. flag is always the biggest and the tallest—a 4- by 6-foot flag on a 12-foot pole. This year the remaining three flags are rare historical national flags—the Cowpen, the Serpus and the Great Star Flag. Past years have honored the land and sea divisions of our armed forces, first responders and various state and historic flags.

Thorn and deCastro invited the newest (and youngest!) members of the yacht club to raise the flags. How does one become a member of this imaginary yacht club, you might ask? Well, it’s invitation only, but crossing over to Flag Island for the annual ceremony to pitch in and cheer them on will earn you a T-shirt, a Bloody Mary and your lifelong membership.

With the sun shining, birds flying and all four flags raised and flapping in the breeze, club members—new and old—raised a glass to toast their efforts and admire their handiwork. Here’s to being part of a local legend!

With help from the Sea Girt Yacht Club, Spring Lake magazine gets to the bottom of the Flag Island mystery.

Dallas Hlatky is a local writer and the newest member of the Sea Girt Yacht Club. Follow her on Instagram @merle.works.

The Heart of Sea Girt

BY JUDITH JONES-AMBROSINI

It was 1917 when a group of residents gathered in the newly formed borough of Sea Girt to form a volunteer fire company. Before long, generous donations from benefactor J. Bumford Samuels allowed construction of buildings for both fire and police that are still in use today.

In 1918, Samuels’s financing also helped the company purchase its first fire truck—a sparkling, new Ford model that cost $3,243. According to glimpses of early 20th century firefighting from the department’s archives, if too many men stood on the truck’s back deck as they rushed to a fire, the front wheels would lift and

lose contact with the road. Yet that first fire truck performed faithfully until its retirement from service in the 1930s.

45 Volunteers Strong

Today, the Sea Girt Fire Company is proud to have 45 volunteer firefighters who each undergo 150 hours of rigorous training that covers all aspects of equipment, science, technology, methods, safety and skills required for certification. Monday night training drills help firefighters maintain their skills. They also gain valuable practice at demolition

sites: When a house in town is to be torn down, the department can receive permission to go in and treat the building as though it has had a structural fire. During these drills, firefighters carry a full equipment load of 40 to 50 pounds, which includes filled air tanks that alone weigh 25 pounds.

Station 44-1 Sea Girt is presently equipped with three fire trucks. Two of them—trucks #74 and #75—are fire engines with pumpers. (Truck #75 was purchased in 2022 at a cost of over $630,000.) Truck #88 is an air-filling utility truck with scene lighting and water safety capabilities.

Sea Girt’s volunteer fire department has been saving lives and protecting property for more than 100 years.

Dedicated to the Community Sea Girt Fire Company works hand in hand with neighboring towns whenever significant emergencies occur. One of the most serious examples in the company’s history was in 1965 when the oceanfront Stockton Hotel burned down. Fire departments from every neighboring town rushed to help with this devastating fire. A more recent dangerous blaze occurred when the cedar roof of a residence ignited and strong winds spread the fire to three nearby homes. The department’s mission goes beyond its noble calling to protect life and property. In addition to fighting fires and performing firstresponder duties, the company carries out a multitude of generous community functions. Among them:

• Once a year, the department collects and delivers food and money for the Manasquan foodbank.

• Firefighters act as the fire protection standby crew for the annual Boy Scout Jamboree.

• The company creates welcome ties to the community through 100 associate members of the department. Firefighters host monthly dinners at the firehouse for the associates, making purchases, cooking and cleaning up at these community social functions.

• The department acts as fire standby when the governor makes his yearly visit to the State Police training camp.

• Firefighters conduct Fire Safety Week community service at Sea Girt Elementary School.

• At the Manasquan Thanksgiving Eve parade, Sea Girt’s retired, vintage, 1953 Mack fire truck proudly rolls along with fire trucks from neighboring towns for the Manasquan High School pep rally.

• Department volunteers work at water supply stations for runners during the Spring Lake and Sea Girt 5K road races.

• The fire company helps first-responder teams with aquatic rescues and during polar plunge events.

• Crews readily assist the community during periods of emergency. For example, when COVID-19 restrictions were in effect, the department made cheerful drive-by stops to help residents celebrate special occasions. During Hurricane Sandy, the firehouse was open and staffed with volunteers 24/7 for two weeks, cooking and serving meals and providing charger stations for phones.

• As Christmas approaches, Santa arrives at the library in his shiny fire truck to meet and bring magic to children of all ages.

Under the direction of current chief Brandon Fetzer and president Joseph Accurso, the Sea Girt Fire Company does it all. The community responds gratefully, in part through a fundraiser at the Parker House that has become a major summer social event. Donations enable the volunteer fire department to continue protecting Sea Girt and its residents. The department welcomes new recruits. To learn more, call (732) 449-9433, ext. 118.

This page, clockwise from top: “Old Mack” during a Sea Girt Fire Company food drive. Members of the company, from left: Ed Sidley, Joe Accurso (president), Brandon Fetzer (fire chief), Kevin Hanley and Devon Clancy (fire captain). The company’s fleet of emergency vehicles.

Judith Jones-Ambrosini, a Sea Girt resident, has long been impressed by the dedication of the town’s volunteer firefighters.

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Red, White & Bubbly

All-American wines pair perfectly with July 4th events, from picnics at the beach to BBQs and beyond.

BY CYNTHIA A. MURRAY

Faustini Beach House Sauvignon Blanc from Napa Valley is made by bicoastal Anthony and Michelle Faustini, New Jersey natives who have become known for their rich, velvety Napa cabs. Their sauvignon blanc is juicy, ripe and scrumptious. Aged in 100 percent stainless steel, it’s packed with ripe pear, melon, pineapple and clementine notes. An amazing value in Napa sauvignon blanc, this is also a happy, sunny American alternative for folks who love New Zealand sauvignon blanc. $29.99

Onto the reds! Marietta Cellars Old Vine Red comes from a family-owned winery and vineyard in Sonoma Valley. The family’s commitment to quality is evident in Old Vine Red, made of mostly zinfandel. First produced in 1982, this wine has a ripe and lively style, with plump upfront blackberries and black cherries followed by wild mint and a hint of mocha. Pair with burgers and ribs, or pasta and pizza. $16.99

For your July 4th BBQ, why not create a “Red, White & Bubbly” theme, serving American wines? It’s a great way to be patriotic and discover new libations.

Serving a glass of bubbly is always a great way to get the party started. Moules Marinières

Blanc de Blancs Brut, from a sustainable vineyard in Lodi Valley, California, makes a great choice. Bone-dry and lemon citrusy with a crisp palate of green apple, nectarine and honeysuckle, it is produced with the true champagne method. “Moules” Brut is the consummate partner for raw bar, all fishes and, bien sûr, with moules marinières. The beautiful label features a colorful

mussel painted by local surfer and artist Shayne Boyle. $36.99

For the first white, Soléna Pinot Gris from Oregon has ripe stone fruit aromas and flavors like apples, pears and apricots, accented by honeysuckle, lemon zest and minerals with a pure, dry finish. Delicious for clams on the BBQ, shrimp skewers and cedar plank salmon. Made of 98 percent pinot gris and 2 percent gewürztraminer, Soléna is named for owner/ winemaker Laurent Montalieu’s daughter. A good pinot gris is a terrific white to please both the Italian pinot grigio and California chardonnay crowd. $24.99

Grosgrain Vineyards Petit Grosgrain is a unique red blend from Washington State made by Matt and Kelly Austin, who left their corporate careers in 2014 for a new life in the Pacific Northwest. They own five acres at Grosgrain, championing underdog grapes and sustainable farming. Their sumptuous Rhône style blend was a highlight on a visit to the Walla Walla Valley last year, as were the luxury cabernets being crafted there. Made of 53 percent grenache, 45 percent syrah and 2 percent tempranillo, look for cherry, raspberry, marjoram and black tea notes. $29.99

Author Cynthia A. Murray owns The Bottle Shop, a wine and spirit merchant in Spring Lake.

Take It Outside!

How to create an outdoor kitchen that’s both functional and pleasing to the eye.

BY DANIEL KRAFTMANN

Planning a new outdoor kitchen requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure a functional and aesthetically pleasing space. From selecting the right appliances to determining the layout and incorporating suitable lighting, each decision plays a crucial role in enhancing your outdoor cooking and entertaining experience.

The Kitchen Island: A Central Element

Layout and Workflow Efficiency

Choosing Outdoor Appliances

It is essential to select appliances that are specifically designed for outdoor use. Stainless steel appliances are popular due to their durability and resistance to outdoor elements. Look for high-quality grills, outdoor refrigerators, freezers, beverage centers, outdoor ventilation hoods and ice makers. Brands like Weber, Hestan, Coyote, XO, Lynx and Napoleon offer top-notch options to the discriminating consumer.

An island can serve as the centerpiece of your outdoor kitchen, providing additional workspace, storage and seating options. Consider the size and layout of your outdoor space when selecting a kitchen island. It should not only complement the overall design but also allow for easy movement and interaction while cooking and entertaining. Brands such as Urban Bonfire, XO, and Fire Magic offer a wide range of kitchen islands to suit different aesthetic and functional needs.

Determining the layout of your outdoor kitchen is crucial for a seamless cooking experience. Consider the available space and how you envision incorporating a barbecue grill, kitchen island, worktop and appliances. An efficient layout ensures smooth workflow and convenience.

Harmonizing Colors With the Surroundings

Color selection plays a significant role in creating the desired ambiance for your outdoor kitchen. Choose colors that complement your outdoor surroundings and blend harmoniously with the overall design. Modern grills, such as those offered by Weber and Hestan, come in a variety of colors, allowing you to find the perfect match for your outdoor aesthetic.

The Importance of Lighting

Lighting is essential in an outdoor kitchen as it enhances both functionality and ambiance. Incorporate a combination of task lighting for specific work areas and overall ambient lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Many barbecue grills include built-in night-lights and models from Napoleon even feature safety glow knobs. Consider energy-efficient LED fixtures that provide ample illumination while saving energy.

Designing an outdoor kitchen doesn’t have to be a hassle when you consider the most important factors. Use these guidelines to elevate your dining experience!

ATTENTION SPRING LAKE AND SEA GIRT

With the summer rush upon us, the real estate market is experiencing a shortage of available properties and a surge in demand. This means it’s an excellent time to sell your home. At homesofspringlake.com, I can provide you with a no-obligation valuation of your property and help you develop a marketing plan that maximizes your property’s exposure to potential buyers. Don’t miss out on this seller’s market opportunity! Visit homesofspringlake.com today and let me help you sell your home quickly and profitably.

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“As the Designer, it is my job to listen to the client and create a vision that they can see, we can execute, and is on budget.”

There’s No Smile Like a Cuozzo Smile

While children should have an initial visit with an orthodontist by age 7, it doesn’t mean treatment will begin right away! We evaluate your child’s specific needs and never rush into treatment so that their experience in braces is as brief as necessary. Schedule your complimentary exam and consultation today.

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Carol Fleres was unbelievably professional throughout the process of selling my elderly parent's home. She was incredibly astute in her understanding of the market in which she worked, completely unflappable in the face of all those challenges that arise when selling a home, and perseverant beyond belief. She got the home sold at about the asking price in less than a month. What was even more so to me was how she handled my folks. At their ages, the stress of selling their family home of 50 years and moving was particularly tough. Carol always had a smile, was incredibly patient with them, and just did what was right and good. I cannot praise her highly enough. Carol has my highest recommendation.

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Run With a View

Spring Lake Heights resident Corin DeSantis caught this memorable May sunrise during her morning run along Union Ave. in Spring Lake.

PHOTO OP

Campi Dental is proud to announce the ninetieth anniversary of our family-owned, fourth-generation dental practice serving the members of Monmouth and Ocean counties since 1933.

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