Spring Lake
Also Serving Sea Girt
WHIMSICALITY CELEBRATES 25 YEARS SEA GIRT’S HELPING HANDS
WHIMSICALITY CELEBRATES 25 YEARS SEA GIRT’S HELPING HANDS
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As a realtor and local resident I offer all my clients a high level of expertise, knowledge and confidentiality for both buyers and sellers. My years on Wall Street allow me to negotiate confidently on your behalf and my expertise in design, renovation and custom home building will assist in your acquisition of the perfect seaside home for your family.
Dear Readers,
As we turn the calendar to November, there’s a certain shift in the air; a quiet transition after Halloween and before the holiday season really takes flight. I hope you enjoy this month’s edition, which includes ways to give back, celebrate and take part in many local events.
On November 11, we observe Veterans Day. It is a time to honor and celebrate the bravery and dedication of those who have served in our nation’s armed forces. Take a moment to reflect on the courage and sacrifice our veterans have made for us all.
Thanksgiving traditions hold cherished memories— cooking alongside grandparents, bringing out the fine china and crystal, setting the table days in advance. Everyone contributing their own essential piece to complete the special meal. It is truly a gift to be able to partake in these family traditions. Don’t forget to check in with your friends and neighbors to make sure that everyone has a place at the table.
Thanksgiving also marks the start of the holiday season, Small Business Saturday, on November 30, kicks off holiday shopping. Our local stores, cafes and coffee shops are the reason this area stays so quaint and inviting. Supporting these gems means so much to the local families that rely on our support through the holiday shopping season.
So, as we ease into this time of gratitude and giving, let’s celebrate the people, places and traditions that make our little pocket of earth home.
With gratitude,
Brynn Coleman Publisher
Editor & Publisher
Brynn Coleman
Group Publisher
Jodi Bruker
Writers
Danielle Kutcher
Judith Jones-Ambrosini
Maria O’Donnell
Meighan Kelleher
Cynthia A. Murray
Cass Daugherty
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
local Thanksgiving tradition.
BY MARIA O’DONNELL
This year’s event will showcase two local Spring Lake talents, one on each team. Brendan “Bubba” O’Donnell (right), a sophomore on the MHS Varsity team, will take the field for the Warriors. On the other side, Francesco “Franny” Scaramellino, also a sophomore, will quarterback for the WHS Varsity team. Longtime friends, Brendan and Francesco are excited to face each other in their first Thanksgiving game for their respective schools.
This Thanksgiving marks the 24th annual football game between local rivals, Manasquan High School and Wall High School.
“It’s a community tradition,” says Robert Goodall, former principal of MHS and the new Manasquan school district superintendent. The festivities begin on Thanksgiving Eve with a parade through Manasquan, which finishes at Mallard Park in Manasquan. There, revelers will find the iconic bonfire at 6:30 p.m. The game will take place on Manasquan’s Warrior Field Thanksgiving Day.
“It’s always a huge turnout,” Goodall says, adding, “Regardless of how the teams perform throughout the season, it’s always an exciting game.”
Marni Henry, the WHS athletic director, echoes Goodall’s enthusiasm, calling the event the “Super Bowl” for the community that brings everyone together. The hosting town will provide breakfast for the event organizers from both schools. MHS Athletic Director Don Bramley, who has attended the Thanksgiving game since he was a freshman in 1989, notes that the tradition dates back to 1931, when MHS played its first Thanksgiving Day game against Point Pleasant Beach.
This year, Just Us Girls is celebrating 30 years of supporting the fight against breast cancer.
BY DANIELLE KUTCHER
Top: This year’s team during one of their bi-monthly planning meetings. Bottom: Community members and teams from previous Just Us Girls walks, showing strength, support and solidarity in the fight against breast cancer.
In 1994, Madeline Stack of Manasquan was diagnosed with breast cancer. Driven by the desire to help and support her, five friends sprang into action. These women–Carol Marion, Peggy Prescott, Katie Barber, Jorene Burke and Gerri Bleach–worked tirelessly with the singular intention of helping Madeline and others affected by this devastating disease. As a result, the Just Us Girls (JUGS) organization was created.
This volunteer-based non-profit organization addresses the holistic and financial needs of women and men in Monmouth and Ocean Counties who are dealing with the trauma of breast cancer. This year, the Just Us Girls 5k run/walk will take place at the Sea Girt Military Base on Nov. 9 at 9:30 a.m. (See box for details.)
The event is celebrating 30 years, and its organizers are proud to have never missed a year. They even held the walk when Hurricane Sandy was on its way, making its theme song “We Made it Through the Rain,” by Barry Manilow.
Just Us Girls strives to:
• Ease the lives of those women and men who have been affected by breast cancer
• Distribute all monies raised through its
annual 5K and other events and activities
• Advocate education and sensitivity in dealing with breast cancer issues
• Encourage the exchange of ideas and information to keep pace with current trends in research and treatment
How Funds Are Used
Women and men in Monmouth and Ocean Counties with breast cancer receive 100% of the money that is raised to give them financial support. They are referred by social workers or their doctors.
In addition, each year a $1,000 scholarship is offered to two high school seniors who have been affected by breast cancer—one in Ocean County and one in Monmouth County.
The committee sends individual letters to the guidance counselors at each high school encouraging eligible students to apply.
“My favorite part is seeing all the camaraderie over the years,” says founding member Gerri Bleach, “the family and friends coming together to run or walk in support of their loved ones. I also get to meet survivors–their gratitude makes it so worthwhile. Many are overwhelmed that strangers have reached out to them in their time of need.”
Danielle Kutcher is a local mom of three and a retired elementary school teacher. She enjoys theatre, reading and going on adventures with her family.
This year’s 5k walk/run is on Nov. 9 at the Sea Girt Army Camp and begins at 9:30 a.m. There are three categories: 5K Runner, 5K Walker and Mother/Daughter. There will be trophies for the first three female finishers in each category. Men, women and children are all encouraged to participate. Preregistration is $35 (race day $40) and includes entry, a T-shirt and a postrace buffet at the Manasquan Elks Club. Sign-up at www.justusgirls.net
A community chef shares a family recipe, and a local wine expert shares her picks for the Thanksgiving table.
As Thanksgiving approaches, we find ourselves reflecting on cherished memories and the traditions that make this holiday so special. For many of us, it’s the familiar sights, smells and tastes that create a sense of comfort and nostalgia as we gather around the table with loved ones. Spring Lake magazine asked Meighan Kelleher, local chef and owner of Main Street Kitchen Cafe & Catering, to share her family’s favorite holiday recipe and Cynthia A. Murray, co-owner of The Bottle Shop, to suggest wines to complement a Thanksgiving meal.
BY CYNTHIA A. MURRAY
The most important elements of Thanksgiving are showing gratitude for our blessings, spending time with loved ones and sharing good food and wine! In that spirit, we have chosen three incredibly delicious wines—a white, a red and a dry rosé—that will match perfectly with the hearty bounties on your Thanksgiving table.
Made by a Portuguese woman winemaker with native grapes that are dry farmed, handpicked and organic. Aged in oak and bottled with very low sulfites, Bergamota has fleshy fruit flavors of ripe plums and black cherries along with hints of English tea, violets, licorice and spice. A fresh, elegant Dão red.
Txakoli rosé wines from the Spanish Basque region have aromas of orange citrus, red fruits, flowers and herbs, with apple, watermelon and strawberry flavors and mouthwatering salinity. This little beauty is made from 50-year-old vines that are dry farmed within view of the Atlantic Ocean on steep hillsides. Addictively alluring.
A greeting of fresh, juicy aromas is followed by white peach, clementine and floral flavors laced with salinity. This was such a delightful surprise from New Jersey’s burgeoning Outer Coastal Plain region. Made of 90% cayuga white and 10% aromella, with only 11.7% alcohol, this American white will be a pure delight on Thanksgiving Day.
BY MEIGHAN KELLEHER
Thanksgiving has always been my favorite meal to prepare. I am sure so much of it has to do with the great family memories I have from growing up. There were lots of family members, everyone pitching in—it was always one of the best days of the year. Fresh ingredients from local farms and butchers still make for the most memorable meal.
We still make the same stuffing every year. Pork sausage works well as a replacement for veal sausage. Granny Smith apples are a must because of the tart flavor that balances the fat of the sausage and butter, and they hold their shape well and do not break down. Salted Butter is a must. I remember learning in culinary school: Add salt from the beginning to flavor all the ingredients and you will salt less later on.
Serves 8
INGREDIENTS:
• 4 cups Pepperidge Farms Herb Seasoned Stuffing
• ½ lb. pork sausage, out of casings, cooked and crumbled
• 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled, and diced
• 1 Spanish onion, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 tbls. chopped fresh sage
• 1 stick salted butter
• 2 cups chicken or turkey broth
DIRECTIONS:
• Sautee over low heat in 2 tablespoons butter, onion, apple and celery until celery turns bright green and onion is cooked. 5 minutes or so.
• Warm butter and broth together until butter is melted.
• Combine all in a bowl. Season with salt and black pepper.
• Cool, then wrap in two foil packs, sealing well.
• Reheat day of, about 30 minutes at 350 degrees, until hot. Edges will be crispy and middle soft.
• If needed, foil packs can sit on top of other covered pans in the oven to save oven space.
Meighan Kelleher attended the Culinary Institute of America and has worked in Manhattan and throughout New Jersey as a high-end catering chef. She opened Main Street Kitchen in Manasquan in 2015, serving from-scratch sandwiches, salads and foods to go during the day. Main Street Kitchen also comprises a full-blown event planning and catering company that manages events large and small for the local community.
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Refresh your living space with the casual elegance of coastal design.
Providing you with timeless charm and sophistication, Mary Catherine McCarthy and Creative Design will transform your home into the ideal coastal retreat, leaving you with an indoor / outdoor living space that’s as inviting as it is stylish.
The Sea Girt Community Appeal makes it easy for locals to help locals.
Mary and Don McLaughlin have been passionate about the Sea Girt Community Appeal for over 12 years. Mary is currently serving as president of the organization. “We are a group of residents—neighbors—dedicated to helping and supporting charities, Mary says. “Our theme this year is Locals Helping Locals. After all, as they say, it takes a village—and Sea Girt is our village.”
In 1959, a small group of Sea Girt neighbors gathered. They
BY JUDITH JONES-AMBROSINI
chatted about how they wrote checks to various charities every year. During their conversation a spark ignited the idea to form “Community Appeal.” The idea was that it would be easier to contribute to their favorite charitable organizations by writing only one check to be dispersed among various not-forprofit organizations. That first year, $7,526 was raised. By 1961, Sea Girt Community Appeal was well on its way. Handwritten
donation letters were mailed to Sea Girt residents who responded with enthusiasm and generosity. Each year that followed, more and more dollars were donated to more than 33 national and a few local organizations. By 1974 contributions exceeded $10,000. Sea Girt Community Appeal is unique. No other town in the area has such a way of consolidating charitable giving. But it is much more than simply a group of volunteers who meet
and work together to accomplish a goal. It is a mindset of kindness. It is local Sea Girters who care enough to step outside of their busy lives to make lives easier for those in need.
The volunteer trustees hold annual board meetings to discuss more efficient methods of giving, update the yearly donation letter and implement creative new ideas. They are like-minded individuals who bond together to
accomplish their mission to make a difference. The trustees work diligently to examine charities to ensure that the majority of donations go directly to the various missions and are not spent on administrative fees or inflated salaries. Based on their research and screening procedures, recipients must qualify as operating effectively, performing well financially and functioning at the highest levels of transparency.
Focused on Local Giving
At the recent 2024 annual meeting, trustees voted to concentrate on funding local area and New Jersey charities in need.
“This year,” says trustee Margo Hooker, “our focus has shifted more towards helping smaller local charities that may not have the capacity to do fundraising campaigns and often struggle or go unnoticed.”
There are many not-for-profits close by that can benefit from financial help from Sea Girt Community Appeal. An important part of this is that donors will be able to see their donations at work. There are currently 12 charities listed. Friends of the SG Library, Kindness Café Employment for Young Adults with Special Needs, Rae of Light Music Scholarships in Memory of Jillian Ludwig, and Fulfill Foodbank are some of this year’s recipients. As for cost of operation incurred by the group, purchasing stamps to mail the donation letters and required administrative costs are their small expenditures. All printing costs are generously donated by the Larson Family in memory of former president and trustees Paul and Janet Larson.
No matter how serious and focused an organization is, there is usually a part that connects members in a less formal way. For Sea Girt Community Appeal, it’s the annual “Stuffing the Envelopes” party. This is when everyone sits around trustee Joyce Cornelius’ kitchen and dining room tables to stuff and label over 15,000 envelopes. This event gives trustees a chance to chat and enjoy some good humor as they stuff and seal. It’s a labor of love. Joyce has been a trustee for many years and is happy to open her house for this annual “party.”
As of 2023, over $1million has been raised through the ongoing efforts of Sea Girt Community Appeal!
Thanks to younger trustees Caitlin Accurso and Ally Stevens, the organization has catapulted into the realm of social media. It now has a presence on Instagram and Facebook, as well as a new website, seagirtcommunityappeal.org. Website visitors can learn more about the organization, how to get involved and electronic ways of donating.
“Our goal is to simplify the donation
process,” says Accurso. “Through our new social media initiative and userfriendly website, you can easily explore the charities we support, get to know our organization, and contribute in just a few minutes. We are passionate about surpassing our previous fundraising records and making a real difference for our smaller local charities with our new technology.”
Stevens added: “This year, Caitlin expressed strong personal motivation, especially with her niece Jillian’s charity, Rae of Light, being included on our list.”
As co-treasurer (along with John Luke), Clark Lydic notes: “Sea Girt is a village of generous people and there are many worthwhile organizations to join. But the Community Appeal is unique in its mission. We encourage residents, both year-round and summer, as well as local businesses, to become part of the organization, to get involved. The Community Appeal is a great group of Sea Girt residents who are passionate about seeking to help others.”
“Community Appeal is a 501-3(c) and IRS designated eligible for matching funds from employers,” says Lydic. Donation envelopes are available at the post office and the Sea Girt Library. If donors have charities they would like to support, we see to it that the donation goes directly to those organizations.”
To become part of Sea Girt Community Appeal—and perhaps sign on for a two-year term as a trustee— visit the website.
“All are welcome to join,” says trustee Joan Blanchard, “and we encourage new and younger residents to get involved and embrace this very special organization.”
Judith Jones-Ambrosini is a Sea Girt resident, member of the Holly Club and author of the Sisterhood of Diabetes.
A local source of luxurious touches for your home—now that’s something to celebrate!
As you stroll down 3rd Avenue in Spring Lake, a very unique shop is sure to catch your eye. Whimsicality, owned by successful entrepreneur Elke Ridge, is celebrating 25 years in business this November. It’s easy to see why customers return year after year, as Ridge has meticulously curated her bed, bath and home shop, one that delights the senses and emanates luxury and beauty.
BY DANIELLE KUTCHER
Ridge did not intend to be a business owner, nor did she have her sights set on interior design. In fact, it was quite the contrary. She graduated from North Carolina State University expecting to be the next Diane Sawyer, but fate would lead her in a completely different direction. While waiting for her “big break,” Ridge says she walked into the “most gorgeous shop and knew I wanted to
work for the person who could design such an incredible space.” She was hired as a manager, learning valuable lessons along the way, which she took with her as she set her sights on opening a business of her own. Spring Lake was the town at the top of her list, so Ridge jumped at the chance when a space became available, and with that (and two credit cards!) Whimsicality was born.
Spring Lake has changed over the 25 years Ridge and Whimsicality have been there. According to Ridge, it was simpler back then, but it has always been, as one customer remarked, “like you walked onto a movie set.”
The town has evolved over the years and is now busier and more beautiful than ever.
“Just like life,” Ridge says, “if you don’t evolve and update, then things will change and pass you by.” She prides herself on coming up with her own ideas and keeping ahead of the trends, thereby keeping the store fresh and new.
Whimsicality’s customers and employees are like family to Ridge, as she feels like she is inviting them to see a glimpse of her life.
“Customers see how much we love what we do, and it’s rewarding to make people happy
and have thousands of people come back year after year,” she says. Because her process is natural and organic, customers and design clients trust her to create a very relaxed, coastal and comfortable feeling home.
Ridge cherishes the wonderful memories she has of her amazing customers and clients. Among her favorite moments as a business owner in Spring Lake is the annual Christmas tree lighting. She fondly remembers the sidewalks adorned with white paper bag luminaries, guiding visitors to her shop’s door and giving the town a magical and ethereal feel.
As Ridge prepares to celebrate her silver anniversary this month, she continues to stay true to her golden rules of business:
• Start small and build over time.
• Do it yourself.
• Be nice, but not a pushover.
• Stay the course.
• Jump in with both feet.
Ridge’s most important rule is to stay true to herself. Her passions lie in going to work, to client’s homes and buying for the shop.
“When these things line up, you will truly be successful because it is not forced. When you love something so much that you eat, sleep and breathe it, it comes naturally”.
Whimsicality is located at 1219 3rd Ave. in Spring Lake. Phone: 732-449-9337.
For interior design needs, call Elke Ridge Interior Design at 732-208-3308 or email whimsicalhome@gmail.com.
Danielle Kutcher is a local mom of three and a retired elementary school teacher. She enjoys theatre, reading and adventures with her family.
Our friends at Barlow’s in Sea Girt share their top tips for success when planting bulbs to bloom next spring.
BY CASS DAUGHERTY
Planting spring-blooming bulbs is one of the easiest ways to introduce early spring color into your garden! There’s no better way to shake off the winter blues than seeing daffodils, crocus, snowdrops, tulips and hyacinth (to name a few) popping up. The best part—bulbs are so easy to plant and care for.
Spring bulbs require a period of about 10-15 weeks of temperatures under 40 degrees. Here in Zone 7 at the Jersey Shore, planting in October or November gives the bulbs plenty of time to establish themselves. Bulbs aren’t typically fussy and our general rule of thumb is that as long as you can break ground, you can plant your spring bulbs. Follow our tips below to ensure success with your spring bulb garden.
Some factors to consider when selecting your bulbs:
• Bloom time. Some bulbs will bloom earlier in the spring than others. Pairing early bloomers with late bloomers is a great way to extend bloom time in your garden.
• Color and texture. This is where you can really let your creative light shine. Play around with different colors, heights and textures (for example, feathered tulips, double flowers, and others) to create a truly unique display.
Allow your bulbs to thrive by placing them where they’ll be
happiest and look their best:
• Sunlight. Most bulbs will need full sun, but bulbs like snowdrops and crocus naturally grow under the canopy of trees and shrubs and can handle part sun to part shade. Be sure to pay attention to the packaging when finding a spot for your bulbs.
• Height. Also note the height of the plants—you’ll want to make sure the bulbs don’t get hidden by other plants in your garden. Stagger shorter bulbs in front of taller bulbs and plants to ensure all the flowers can be seen.
• Labeling. Mark where you plant your bulbs so you don’t plant over them with other bulbs or plants.
Planting bulbs is easy, but here are some quick tips to keep in mind:
• Planting depth. You’ll want to make sure you plant your bulbs deep enough that they won’t risk cold damage, but not too deep so they won’t bloom. Generally, bulbs should be planted about 2-3 times as deep as the bulb is tall—and make sure they’re planted with the roots facing down and the leaf-side (pointy side) facing up.
• Soil. Bulbs will prefer soil that drains well and holds moisture but doesn’t stay soaking wet. Mix some compost or Bumper Crop Soil Builder into the hole when planting to ensure your bulbs have enough nutrients to get established. You can also give your bulbs an extra boost by mixing in Espoma Organic Bulb-tone when planting.
• Weeds and critters. Two things that may threaten your bulb plantings—weeds and local wildlife. To combat weeds, a light layer of mulch over the bulbs can be effective. For critters, you may need some chicken wire or a light physical barrier if you tend to have hungry locals in your garden. For less stubborn visitors, a granular repellent may be enough to keep them at bay.
• Watering. After planting, give your bulbs a good drink to encourage root growth and help them settle in. After your initial watering, you don’t need to worry about them again until spring!
To ensure your bulbs continue to thrive, follow these tips:
• In bloom. When your bulbs begin pushing out leaves and flowers, you can add more Espoma Organic Bulb-tone to give them energy to encourage larger, more vibrant blooms. If the spring is particularly hot & dry, you may need to supplement water - keeping in mind your bulbs are planted several inches below the surface and will need to water accordingly.
• After Bloom. You can trim flowers and
place in a vase to enjoy as cut flowers, or let them die back naturally. Allow the leaves & greenery to go through their natural process—they will continue pushing energy back into the bulb to prepare for dormancy. The foliage will eventually brown and die back to the soil, at which point you can cut it down to the ground.
• Optional. In our area, it’s not necessary to dig up bulbs after blooming unless you have issues with critters. Spring-blooming bulbs are fine to leave in the ground until next year!
by Michelle
Barefoot Athleisure and Thunder Road Books have teamed up once again, this time for one of our favorite brands: Little Words Project! Adriana Carrig, the project’s creator and CEO, celebrated the prerelease of her book The Power of Little Words.
The book and the Little Words Project brand started 14 years ago in Carrig’s parents’ basement. After years of bullying, she reframed the negative experience to spread kindness through each bracelet sold and shared with others.
This is the fourth time Barefoot
BY KATE CZYZEWSKI
Athleisure and Thunder Road Books have collaborated on an event that brings the community together. It was especially important to both stores to host Carrig as Ali Maccione of Barefoot Athleisure and Kate Czyzewski of Thunder Road Books have been longtime fans of Little Words Project. Barefoot Athleisure was one of the first retailers to carry Little Words Project in stores, starting in 2015.
This was a sold-out event and a packed house, filled with inspiration and the power of positive thinking. It was particularly
moving to see how many patrons have followed and looked up to Carrig since the beginning. Mothers and daughters, sisters and friends—all included in this unforgettable evening.
Copies of The Power of Little Words are available to purchase at Thunder Road Books. The now iconic bracelets and books are available to purchase at Barefoot Athleisure on Third Avenue in Spring Lake.
The sunrise caught on Washington Avenue in Spring Lake is one of Michael Scotto’s favorite and most frequent subjects. These images, captured just seconds apart in early October, remind us to get out there and enjoy this magnificent gift whenever we have the opportunity.
Find more of Michael’s work, check his Instagram account @mjscottophotography.