MARIE REED HOMES
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.
Marie
Publisher’s Note
Dear Readers, True fall is here! I always think of summer as a wild ride, running around from event to event, beach to pool, not wanting to waste one second of sunshine. October offers the perfect opportunity to slow down and truly reconnect–with our families, our neighbors and community.
Whether catching up on the sidelines of a game, sharing stories at school pick-up or at one of our many local fall festivals, October invites us to come together in ways that remind us of the importance of community. It’s a season where the simple moments—like a walk on the boards or a moment in the warm golden sun—remind us what makes living here yearround so special.
This month we meet Spring Lake couple, Mary D’Arcy and Karl Jurman. They have been bringing people together with their talents for decades on Broadway. In Sea Girt, we meet the Fire Associates, a wonderful community support system for the Fire Company operations. They come together monthly for group dinners and provide help and support to the Fire Company. October is also Breast Cancer Awareness month, so we chatted with the team behind the Just Us Girls 5K Walk for Breast Cancer as they celebrate their 30th anniversary this year!
As we settle into this new season, let’s embrace the traditions that bring us joy and look forward to creating new memories in the weeks ahead. I hope you find inspiration in this issue to make the most of all that our wonderful community has to offer.
Warmly,
Brynn Coleman Publisher
Spring Lake MAGAZINE
Editor & Publisher
Brynn Coleman
Group Publisher
Jodi Bruker
Art Director
Sue Park
Writers
Kerry Serzan
Kate Czyzewski
Cynthia A. Murray
Judith Jones-Ambrosini
Lead Photographer and
Editorial Coordinator
Michelle Wolfe
Photographer
Vincent Dicks
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
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
PHOTOGRAPH BY MICHELLE WOLFE
INTRODUCING DR. RADISLAV MEYLIKH
We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Radislav Meylikh to our group and are excited for him to join us this summer. Dr. Meylikh began his professional career graduating summa cum laude from Wagner College in 2010 with a bachelor’s degree in biology. He went on to earn his D.D.S. at NYU College of Dentistry, finishing in the top 5 percent of his class with OKU distinction. He then completed a General Dentistry residency and an OMFS fellowship at Kings County Hospital in Brooklyn, NY.
Dr. Meylikh’s extensive training includes a rigorous oral and maxillofacial surgical residency at Kings County Hospital Center, where he specialized in facial trauma, reconstruction, orthognathic surgery, dentoalveolar surgery, and maxillofacial pathology. His exceptional skills and dedication earned him the position of Chief Resident and the honor of being named resident of the year in the Department of Dental and Oral Maxillofacial Surgery.
Outside of his professional life, Dr. Meylikh enjoys quality time with his wife, child, and dog. They love exploring local parks, going to family outings, and simply relaxing at home together. We are confident that Dr. Meylikh’s expertise and compassionate approach will greatly benefit our patients and enhance our practice. We look forward to you meeting him and experiencing his exceptional care firsthand.
Around Town
SPRING LAKE
• 5th Annual Witches Paddle for a Cause in Spring Lake on Oct.12, 2023. $35 to register. Proceeds will go to Blue Dot: Social & Community Wellness.
• Spring Lake Community Theatre presents the haunting tale, “Jekyll & Hyde.” It opens Oct. 11, 2024 and runs weekends through Oct. 26.
• Spring Lake Community House hosts Spring Lake’s 85th Annual Halloween Costume Contest on Oct. 31.
SPRING LAKE HEIGHTS
• Fall Festival in Spring Lake Heights Friday Oct. 25 and Saturday Oct. 26 at Joseph E. Robertson Park on Allaire Road. Festivities include camping, firepits, movies in the park, food trucks, vendors, arts and crafts, a petting zoo, DJ music and more! For more information visit www.springlakehts.com.
SEA GIRT
• Sea Girt Library Classic Car Show, Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024, at the Library Plaza from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sea Girt Fire Company #1 will be collecting nonperishables for a food drive during the event.
• The 30th Annual Just Us Girls Walk for Breast Cancer takes place in Sea Girt on Nov. 9, 2024. Pre-registration is $35 and includes entry, a T-shirt and a post-race buffet at the Manasquan Elks Club. More information can be found at justusgirls.net.
Comte Gruyere wheel photographed by Murray during one of her recent wine buying trips in Bordeaux, France.
Cheese, Please!
Spice up your evening with a selection of artisan cheeses and wines.
BY CYNTHIA A MURRAY
After curating artisan cheeses for 50+ years as a family, it was so cool on a recent wine buying trip in France, that every single cheese course at the end of our meals included Comté Gruyère A popular mainstay in our food market at the Bottle Shop, Comté is a firm cow’s milk cheese crafted since the 13th century in the Franche Comté province of the Jura mountains in eastern France. The local cows are fed 100% fresh, natural feed, making their milk very pure, giving this cheese a unique regional flavor unique. Weighing 80 pounds and 3 feet in diameter, these wheels are huge! Comté must be aged for a minimum of four months according to French law, but it can be aged up to three years. During aging, the wheels are turned weekly and rubbed with brine, picking up a lovely saltiness, as well as sweet grass, hazelnut, brown butter and citrus notes with a supple texture. Serve at room temperature with Dijon mustard for a
WINES TO DRINK WITH AUTUMNAL CHEESE SELECTIONS :
For this trio of rich and flavorful cheeses, it’s time to leave the summery zone of Sancerre, Sauvignon Blancs and Chablis, and serve unique, fuller-bodied whites that will pair better and be eminently more creative. Dry Riesling from Alsace, Chenin Blanc from the Loire Valley and Rhône Valley whites will be so fun and delicious! The three wines below are all organic and made in small batches at family-owned estates:
heightened flavor experience, along with a salty cured ham like prosciutto, serrano or íberico.
Once you have your wedge of Comté cow’s milk, now you need a sheep and a goat’s cheese to complete your cheese board! Instead of grabbing the usual cow’s milk Brie, try Fromage d’Affinois’ Brebicet from the French countryside in the Rhône-Alpes region. Wonderfully gooey and mushroom-like in flavor, this sheep’s milk Brie-style cheese is brimming with personality and adores a dollop of honey or jam on top. High in omega 3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals, sheep’s milk cheeses also have more protein than cow’s milk cheeses. The folks at d’Affinois use an ultrafiltration process that filters out lactose and keeps beneficial calcium, protein and mineral salts in. Also, make sure you take all your nice cheeses out of the refrigerator one to thre hours in advance of serving; you will truly taste the difference. One day we left a
François Baur Dry
Riesling: 100% Riesling—yellow apple, lychee, lemon peel, ginger and minerals
Château de la Roulerie
wedge of the Brebicet out on the counter at 9 a.m. and ate it at 8 p.m. after dinner–it was gloriously creamy, smooth and flowery. Then for those of you who think you do not like goat’s milk cheeses, we implore you to try Balarina Goat Gouda, a two-time gold medal winner at the World Cheese Championships. Aged for over four years, this is loaded with bold, sweet flavors of nuts and caramel with salty, crunchy crystals. Sure to impress the aged Reggiano and cheddar lovers in your household, since it’s made with goat’s milk instead of cow, Balarina is easier to digest with a lower lactose content. In addition to making it a star on your cheese and charcuterie board, you can also be inspired like Bobby Flay, and grate Balarina over salads, pizza, pasta, risotto and omelets.
Cynthia A. Murray is co-owner of The Bottle Shop, a second-generation wine and spirit merchant in Spring Lake
Anjou Blanc: 100% Chenin Blanc—meyer lemons, peaches, apricot skin, honey and crushed stones
La Bastide St. Dominique Châteauneuf du Pape Blanc—33% each Clairette, White Grenache, Roussanne —pears, anise, yellow flower blossoms and ripe juicy limes
"Your Realtor at the Shore"
Donna Fahy-Waters, a top Producing broker/sales associate for more than 20 years provides experience and excellence with energy and enthusiasm while embracing the new venues of technology. She brings her Wall St. background of finance and marketing to all of her clients. She has sold waterfront properties in every town from Monmouth Beach to Seaside Heights while understanding the nuances of every glorious location.
Her business acumen, commitment to clients and intuitive sense of every market are instrumental in her success. Donna welcomes the opportunity to share her knowledge and possibilities with buyers and sellers. Call Donna, Your Shore Realtor today and Expect the Best.
Donna Fahy-Waters, Broker Sales Associate, Luxury Property Specialist
Banker Realty Mobile (908) 601-0645 | Office (732) 449-2777 donnafw@cbmoves.com
SPRING LAKE
The Sea Girt
Fire Associates
These Sea Girt residents share what being a part of the Sea Girt Fire Company Associates means to them.
The year was 1917 when a group of Sea Girt residents gathered to form a volunteer fire company. Today, in 2024, the Sea Girt Fire Company continues its dedicated mission to keep the town safe. In addition, the SGFC works hand in hand with nearby towns to help with major emergencies. These firefighters learn and develop the necessary skills of firefighting by attending the Monmouth County Fire Academy, undergoing approximately 300-hours of intense and rigorous training and class studies. One arm of the SGFC is the Fire Police. The Fire Police are trained on directing and controlling traffic during fires and emergencies.
BY JUDITH JONES-AMBROSINI
But sometimes, the SGFC needs a little extra help. This is where the Sea Girt Fire Associates step in.
At present there are approximately 80 Associates. They are selected from recommendations from either a firefighter, fire police or an Associate member. The Associates have been a part of the SGFC for over 50 years. They participate in:
• Helping with fundraisers, such as the annual Parker House fundraiser.
• Joining with the firefighters at the annual food drive in front of the SG library.
• Sometimes assisting the firehouse cooks prepare and serve dinner for the attendees
at the monthly Monday night dinners at the firehouse.
• Some of the Associates go on to become firefighters or fire police, especially the younger volunteers. This is so important to the vitality, growth and strength of the fire company. However, because of age or health issues, some remain Associates and enthusiastically support the brave firefighters.
The overwhelming sense of appreciation and respect the Associates feel towards the SGFC and fire police is reflected in their comments. Here’s what some of them have to say about the fire department:
Some of the over 80 Associates, photographed during their monthly meeting in August.
Bob Beavis
“Being part of the SGFC makes me proud to be among real Americans who give themselves. I enjoy the monthly Associate dinners and socializing with the Firemen, Fire Police and fellow Associates.” Colonel Beavis, at 81, is still an active Reserve Fighter Pilot with the USMC. He logs in over 100 days a year with Marine Air Group 49, Naval Air Station in Pennsylvania. Yet, he still finds time to join in as an Associate with the SGFC. Bob Beavis has been a Sea Girt resident for 51 years. He says, “I speak highly of the Fire Company to all in town and out of town.”
Danny Ambrosini
“My good friend, SGFC Associate, Bob Pongrac encouraged me to come to the firehouse for a Monday night Associates dinner. I instantly wanted to become an Associate member. It was when I retired from work several years ago. I missed the friendship and bonds I relished with my co-workers. Going to that dinner at the firehouse was my introduction and awareness of all the good the SGFC does on a continuous basis. Being an Associate has more than fulfilled the gap of camaraderie and friendship I missed after retiring. I look forward to many more years of being an Associate and helping in any way I can.”
Richard Aljian aka “ACE”
“The Associates are a great group of guys who support and serve the SGFC. Firefighters Keith Heilos and Tim Harmon encouraged me to join as an Associate.” Attorney Aljian, aka “Ace,” a proponent of public service, feels proud to be among this group. Ace is well known throughout town for his commitment as a Sea Girt lifeguard for over 35 years, He is also a Mason, and he volunteers as an usher at the renowned Marble Collegiate Church in NYC. Ace continues to be an active and devoted citizen to the needs of Sea Girt.
Luke Beshar
“I remember meeting one of the Firefighters, Ray Thorn. He was a great help in solving a plumbing problem I was having. He invited
me to one of the monthly dinners at the firehouse. That was it for me. The rest is history. I work part-time in Biotechnology/drug development. Being an Associate has given me the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life… locals residents, CEO’s, public workers and Wall Street bankers. It is a wonderful mix of personalities and a strong sense of camaraderie among everyone. We help the firemen with projects such as the annual Food Drive and Memorial Day/July 4th ice cream for the kids. It’s also great to participate in events such as the summer cruise and Parker House fundraiser and, of course, the terrific monthly dinner at the firehouse! I chaired a dinner crew at one of the Monday dinners and always try to assist whenever the fire company needs me— including working in the kitchen!”
Rick Shaughnessy
“I heard about the Associates through my father-in-law Pat Lynch. I admired him a lot and he suggested I attend a dinner. Now, as an Associate. I run an end of summer softball game vs. Spring Lake residents, where the winning team gets to choose where the $40 per man donation goes to. Last year we raised over $700 for the SGFC. “I plan to move forward in a few years, perhaps to train as a fire police[man]. In the meantime I can’t thank the department enough for all their hard work and sacrifices in keeping Sea Girt safe. I would like to see more youth involvement with the fire company. Having younger members actively participate in SGFC initiatives would be good for them, for the Associates and for the SGFC. “
From Left: Fire Department President Keith Helios, Richard “Ace” Aljian, Fire Captain Devon Clancy and Dan Lalli.
Steve Toma
“Being part of the Sea Girt Fire Associates is very important to me. It is a bonding community which is welcoming to all. It reminds me of the Meeting Houses from colonial times where townspeople met to connect with neighbors in a supportive way. As associates, we support the brave and dedicated firefighters in helping with donations of time and goods whenever needed. I am retired from business now but remain doing philanthropic work for the ADDF, Alzheimer Drug Discover Foundation and feel honored to be an Associate of the Sea Girt Fire Company.”
Paul Xenis
“I believe the Associate members offer support to the SGFC. They know we have their backs should they ever need us. At the monthly dinners, there is a strong sense of camaraderie among the firefighters, fire police and Associates. As a retired CEO of Guest Worldwide and current adviser to Clean the World and treasurer of Move
Over Breast Cancer, my time is limited to how much more I can do. However, I am ready to help and happy to be part of this strong and worthwhile organization.”
Tom Trivella
“After a neighbor invited me to a monthly dinner at the SGFC, I quickly learned there are so many benefits of being a firehouse Associate member. First and foremost, it’s all about the camaraderie among the members. Whether you’re a firefighter, fire police or an Associate, it’s a group of dedicated and diverse people coming together in an exceptional form of community. Associates have it easy—we never really get far beyond the social aspect of the organization. It’s the firefighters and the fire police that do all the heavy lifting. They are the ones who, through dedication to the mission in terms of time, training and commitment, put their lives on the line during emergencies. The community of SG is incredibly fortunate to have such
willing and able volunteers to serve in such an important capacity. I have a lot of respect for these guys and what they do. The SGFC, including the Associates, reflects all that is good in the character of our country, meaning people coming together in civic engagement to share common values. I would love to see more SG residents become involved in the firehouse community. SG is such a closeknit community. It’s organizations like the firehouse that help foster this sense of belonging. I talk about joining the firehouse as an Associate to everyone in town. Maybe this article will bring in new members!”
This ongoing sponsorship and support of the Associates helps validate the SGFC mission “To provide protection of life and property in the Borough of Sea Girt.”
Judith Jones-Ambrosini is a Sea Girt resident, member of the Holly Club and author of the Sisterhood of Diabetes.
D’Arcy and Jurman at the piano in their sunroom in Spring Lake. They bought the home that they share on St. Clair Avenue in 1985; it is just a few houses down from the Tuttle Avenue home where Jurman grew up.
Spring Lake Couple Share
Decades of Broadway History
A local theater powerhouse couple reflects on life, love and the power of theater.
She is a soprano singer and actress who has featured or starred in many of the performing world’s most acclaimed productions, including “The Phantom of the Opera, “Singin’ in the Rain,” “Sunday in the Park with George,” “Camelot,” “Sophisticated Ladies” and “The Music Man.”
He is a musical director who conducted “Beauty and the Beast,” “Into the Woods,” “The Will Rogers Follies,” and “Guys and Dolls” and
BY KERRY SERZAN
is one of the creative minds that brought to life Disney’s beloved “The Lion King on Broadway.”
They are Mary D’Arcy and Karl Jurman: a Spring Lake powerhouse couple with some incredible stories to tell.
Their impressive bodies of work span decades sharing their creative talents on Broadway, traveling and touring across the US and abroad while performing in many of the era’s most culturally significant
companies and orchestras.
They invited Spring Lake Magazine into their cozy sunroom to talk about performing, auditioning, the value of live theater and how they made it all work.
On early impressions
The two music majors met at Glassboro State College (now Rowan University) in 1973–D’Arcy studied voice–Jurman, contemporary piano.
After college they married, and in 1985, bought the home that they share on St. Clair Avenue, just a few houses down from the Tuttle Avenue home where Jurman grew up. “I can see my old bedroom from here,” he said, sharing recollections from a childhood spent here, singing in the choirs at Manasquan High and St. Uriel’s and his graduation from H.W. Mountz.
He recalled one summer afternoon walking down Third Avenue past the Spring Lake Community House. “The doors were wide open, and I could hear the voices of the Pine Tree Players spilling out into the evening. They were doing a performance of ‘The Fantasticks.’ I just thought to myself, ‘Wow, what is this?’ It opened my eyes to live musical theater.”
D’Arcy grew up in Yardville, New Jersey. “My parents both had beautiful voices, and our home was always filled with
music,” she said. In 1977, she represented her home state in the Miss America pageant and placed second, earning her a scholarship. After touring the Mediterranean with the United Service Organizations (USO), she got an apartment in Weehawken and headed straight for the Big Apple.
On
building relationships
“It was a wonderful time to be on Broadway in the 1980s and 90s,” said D’Arcy. She said they worked on Broadway and toured a lot while traveling between Spring Lake and Weehawken.
Even while juggling hectic performance schedules and periods where one would be out of state or abroad, they always made time for each other. “We supported each other’s careers without question. I would fly home, or he would come to where I was.”
And when they couldn’t be together in person they would call. “There was a time when Karl was in Japan with “Sophisticated Ladies,” and I was in Los Angeles with “Phantom.” Our phone bills were so high the phone company called to make sure it was legit,” D’Arcy recalled.
On auditioning
As lifelong performers, the pair have some practical advice for auditioning.
“Don’t take it personally if you don’t get it; nothing rides on one job,” said Jurman.
D’Arcy is a soprano singer and actress who has featured or starred in many of the performing world’s most acclaimed productions, including “The Phantom of the Opera, “Singin’ in the Rain,” “Sunday in the Park with George,” “Camelot,” “Sophisticated Ladies” and “The Music Man.
D’Arcy added, “I think you have to remind yourself of why you’re doing this. It should be because of the art and because you love it. Treat every audition as an opportunity to do what you love. In the meantime, you meet people, and you feel that fun and wonderful feeling of community.”
On the joy of performing arts
Jurman played in the pit and conducted Beauty and the Beast–Disney’s first Broadway venture–and later supervised productions in Australia and London. He was the first one hired to workshop their next foray– “The Lion King.” He spent the next 26 years with that production, serving first as associate conductor then as music director from 2005 until his
retirement this year.
“I could have stayed at “‘Lion King’ forever,” he said, remarking on the raw emotional impact of the show’s opening scene. “The performers enter, circle the stage once and bow. It’s so simple, yet so powerful it would move people to tears. That’s what live theater does. When you’re all together, there’s a wonderful feeling of community and belonging between the cast and audience. You’re forced to confront your heart and yourself.”
On retirement
D’Arcy and Jurman are now enjoying their retirement and living full time in Spring Lake, catching up with friends, traveling and planning their next musical
adventures. (At the time of our interview they were getting ready to attend The Hollywood Bowl for the 30th anniversary of “The Lion King” film.)
The couple champion Holiday Express, a local charity that brings the gift of human kindness to those in need throughout New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania.
“We also are in the process of recording the music that holds a place of importance to us,” Karl says. “It’s good to stay fluid and open, open to new music in the future, because the music never leaves you.”
Kerry Serzan is a local writer and mom of four. Find her at the theatre, strolling downtown or enjoying the beach with her family. adventures.
A few of Jurman’s mementos from a long and illustrious career with “The Lion King include the original Broadway recording of “The Lion King” and a parting gift after 26 years with the production.
7 Ways to Upstyle Your Home’s Exterior
Amp up your home’s curb appeal by elevating these small but significant exterior details.
According to the National Association of Realtors, 92% of realtors recommend improving your home’s curb appeal prior to listing it for sale. Improving curb appeal can increase a potential buyer’s perceived value of the property and help you get a higher return on your investment.
But you don’t need to wait until there is a “For Sale” sign in your yard to start reaping the benefits of improving your home’s exterior. Modernizing key features of your home is one way to bring you joy every time you arrive at your front door. Whether you’re getting your home ready for sale or want to
enjoy your home now, these seven details are the perfect way to add an aesthetic cherry on top of the sundae that is your home.
Start at the Top with Copper Roofs
Not only are copper roofs durable and low maintenance, they’re one of the most popular roofing systems due to their unrivaled aesthetic appeal. Unique and beautiful copper roofs give your home a distinctive look that can’t be matched by any other roofing material. The light brown to rich mahogany works well with modern and traditional style homes.
Create Visual Interest with a Cupola
A cupola is a tower-like structure that emerges from a building’s roof. Historically, cupolas were used to provide ventilation and natural light and were incorporated into the building process. Today, they’re often used as ornamental additions that transform a home’s profile, creating visual interest through a more dynamic roofline.
Add a Covered Entrance
Stately and refined, porticos are covered walkways leading to a home’s front door. They make a lasting impression, adding a dramatic flair to any entranceway. Many styles of porticos are available from Colonial to Modern, making it easy to find one that meshes with the facade’s architectural style.
Unique Garage Doors Add Appeal
Many people don’t give a second thought to their garage doors. They’re functional and serve a purpose, but beyond that, they’re “nothing special.”
In reality, garage doors are blank canvases—they’re the perfect way to upgrade the exterior of your home and make it stand out from the others on the block. Consider a Spanish-style garage door if you have a Mission, Craftsman or Mediterranean-style home. Add a touch of country charm to your home with a carriage or barn-style garage door. A frameless garage door
can make a strong statement if your home is modern and minimalistic.
Add Exterior Window Shutters
Adding or upgrading your exterior window shutters is a surefire way to add elegance to your home. Various shutters are available, including mid-century modern and country styles, and shutters can amp up the allure of any home. Look for shutters that complement your home’s existing exterior architecture, and if you want to make an even greater impact, consider adding a bold, complementary color.
If shutters aren’t your style, there are many ways you can use your windows to add luxury to your home’s exterior. Consider creating larger window openings or changing the style of your window system to a more popular choice like double— or single-hung windows. Another economical option is incorporating thicker or thinner molding to complement your chosen aesthetic for your home.
Mix and Match Siding for a Chic Appearance
Upgrading your home’s siding is one of the most powerful ways to make an impactful change to the exterior
of your home. There are many ways to approach siding, but mixing and matching different materials can create a beautiful contrast of textures and patterns to make your home stand out. Whether mixing cedar boards with fiber cement panels or board and batten with vinyl siding, experts can help you achieve the look of your dreams using siding. Experience the full impact of changing your siding by exploring our Lookbook of past exterior home remodeling projects.
Transform Your Entryway with a New Front Door
Changing your front door can change the entire look of your home. When looking for a different door, keep the architectural style of your home in mind. Look for a door that matches the overall style of your home but has more detail, lets in more light or has a more solid construction than your current door.
No matter your reason for improving the exterior of your home, a few simple changes can boost your property’s curb appeal and enhance its elegance. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, B&B Siding and Roofing is ready to help you add a touch of luxury to your home.
By PATRYCJA MARAS
Patrycja’s core focus is to elevate the home exterior industry to a style-guided experience where our advisors work with you to co-imagine your dream exterior. She inspires our design team to discover and incorporate the latest style trends while honoring timeless remodeling approaches. She is the voice of the customer, drawing on our core values of transparency, integrity, and lasting quality.
Over the last 30 years, we have transformed over 6,000 homes with siding, roofing, windows, and doors and have earned hundreds of 5-star reviews. We offer $0 down financing and industry-leading lifetime material and labor warranties.
Spooky Tales
“Every
day is Halloween, isn’t it? For some of us.”
Tim Burton
BY KATE CZYZEWSKI
This season, we’re sharing some new spooky tales that can be read in celebration of Halloween but can be enjoyed all year long!
GRISELDA
SNOOK’S SPECTACULAR BOOKS
By Barry Timms
As always, we can’t pass up the chance to share a book about books! In Griselda Snook’s Spectacular Books, main character Henry finds a key to Griselda’s bookstore. She has hundreds of books in stock, but Henry worries he won’t find a book he likes! When a guest reader shares tales during story time, Henry realizes that there is so much for him to choose!
LITTLE GHOST MAKES A FRIEND
By Maggie Edkins Willis
Calling all Casper the Friendly Ghost fans! Little Ghost lives in a haunted, empty home with his mom until one day, a young girl moves in. Determined to make a friend and not scare her away, he invites her to a Halloween party. Both Little Ghost and the young girl overcome their fears of meeting new people and strike an unlikely friendship!
HOW
DO DINOSAURS SAY TRICK OR TREAT?
By Jane Yolen and Mark Teague
From the wildly popular “How Do Dinosaurs” series comes the new Halloween installment! With wit and repetitive text, this is the perfect book to read aloud to the whole family or teach patterns to the youngsters! Plus, the dinos are all dressed up for Halloween!
THE LITTLE WITCH WHO LOST HER BROOM!
By Elaine Bickell and Raymond McGrath
This poor young witch has lost her broom! Inspired by “Goldilocks and the Three Bears,” she tries everything else to replace it—using a bike, a scooter and more, but nothing is as good as her cherished broom! Beautifully illustrated, this is a perfect witchy tale for the spooky season.
ROOM ON THE BROOM
By Julia Donaldson
The beloved classic has a new and improved edition! The newest edition includes tips for hosting a Room on the Broom party, instructions for making your very own witch’s hat and a recipe for baking yummy cheese wands! This year, the publisher also released small stuffed toys (a witch and dragon) to match the book! If you haven’t fallen for this classic, now is the time!
Kate Czyzewski is the general and events manager of Thunder Road Books on Third Avenue in Spring Lake.
Creating Your Perfect Home Gym
A Step-by-Step Guide to functional fitness.
In today’s world, where COVID-19 concerns and busy schedules dominate, the convenience of a home gym is unbeatable. It allows you to squeeze in workouts without leaving the house. It’s a valuable investment in your health, so opting for high-quality gear not only ensures a better workout experience but also saves you from the hassle of frequent repairs.
1. Evaluate Your Space: Whether you have a corner in your garage or a free room or basement, you can create a functional workout area. The key is to avoid overcrowding by selecting equipment that fits comfortably. Even with limited space, thoughtful planning can help you build a gym that meets your fitness goals.
2. Choose the Right Flooring: Your workouts might involve dropping weights
or using noisy cardio equipment. Rubber flooring is a great choice to protect your floors and absorb sound. It’s a worthwhile investment that enhances your workout environment and prevents damage.
3. Decide on Equipment: Focus on the workouts you’re most committed to or those recommended by your doctor. For runners, a treadmill is a must-have. If strength training is your priority, invest in dumbbells or a functional trainer. Choose equipment you’ll use regularly. Visit a store to try out options before purchasing.
4. Design the Gym: Measure your space to ensure your selected equipment fits comfortably. If space is limited, consider creative storage solutions or multifunctional equipment. Consulting with a specialized dealer like Fitness Lifestyles
can help you plan effectively and make the most of your space.
5. Add Necessary Technology: To fully enjoy your workouts, consider adding a TV for workout videos and speakers for music. Ensure your gym has the necessary outlets, cables and Wi-Fi for a seamless experience.
6. Find a Trusted Dealer: To purchase high-grade equipment, work with a reliable fitness equipment store that offers consultation, design, delivery, installation and maintenance services. Fitness Lifestyles in Neptune, New Jersey, has been highly recommended, with excellent reviews since 1984. They provide comprehensive support, ensuring your home gym is set up and maintained to perfection.
Fitness Lifestyles, a family-owned business in Neptune, New Jersey since 1984, offers top-quality fitness equipment and outdoor furniture with exceptional delivery, installation, and service. Call Jack or Liz @ 732-775-1630 for more information.
A sunset walk by Wreck Pond, by Spring Lake resident Lisa Ann Miller.
