Spring Lake November 2023

Spring Lake November 2023

Also Serving Sea Girt

SUMMER CELEBRITIES

DAN FINN & BETTY KARL

SURF FISHING

JOYS & CHALLENGES

FATHER’S MUSTACHE

GIVING BACK

30 Years of Ray’s Café

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Welcome to our Town!

For 1000’s of customers.

For nearly 50 years.

ALL BRANDS ALL MODELS ALL BUDGETS

Go to the go-to.

SERVING TOWN SINCE 1979.

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431 CENTRAL AVE., CEDARHURST, NY 11516

B A LT I M O R E 410-364-4400

9616 REISTERSTOWN RD., OWINGS MILLS, MD 21117

W W W. TO W N A P P L I A N C E .C O M

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MRH

MARIE REED HOMES

Proud to call Spring Lake my life-long home…

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.

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Marie Reed

REALTOR ASSOCIATE

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NOVEMBER 2023

Contents

10 15

20

26 IN EVE RY ISSU E

6

18

Publisher’s Note GIVING THANKS AND GIVING BACK

10 Around Town BITE-SIZED UPDATES 24 Book Nook NEW BOOKS FOR COOKS F E AT URES

15

18

Ray of Gratitude

26 Life Outdoors THE JOYS OF SURF FISHING 30 Better Health DENTAL IMPLANT SURGERY 32 Local Tastes ‘TIS THE SEASON FOR SOUP

Many Sea Girt residents grew up eating at Ray’s Café and now bring their own children for the tasty fare and friendly atmosphere.

Cutting for a Cause

A local barber and partner at Father’s Mustache, Aria Mollicone finds many ways to help those in need.

20 Celebrities of Summer

O N T HE COVER

Ray Litzinger, owner of Ray’s Café and Sea Girt resident.

PHOTOGRAPH BY MICHELLE WOLFE

Dan Finn and Betty Karl, two long-serving members of Spring Lake’s beach and pool staff, talk about what the job means to them.

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* With over $200 Million sold over the last 5 years, Michael possesses the knowledge and experience to maximize the return on the sale of your home. If you are frustrated and weary in search of a home to purchase in our market, Michael has the skill sets to distinguish you from other buyers at your price point. He invites you to contact him for a confidential, professional consultation. *AS PER MORRMLS & NON MORRMLS CLOSED SALES IN ALL CATEGORIES, 10/01/2018-09/30/2023

Michael Skea, Broker Associate

Your Trusted Real Estate Advisor at the Jersey Shore

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Giving Thanks and Giving Back

PHOTOGRAPH BY MICHELLE WOLFE

breakfast favorites, but also kindness and a sense of belonging. Many of us have fond memories associated with Ray’s Café, and for some, like my sister, it was their first job, making Ray’s a place where the people still feel like family.

We are also excited to share a thank-you to Dan Finn and Betty Karl for being the familiar faces we’ve seen each summer during their years of dedication working on our beaches. Don’t miss our story on Adria from Father’s Mustache barber shop. Adria embodies the essence of generosity, offering free haircuts to those in need and more.

The shop will be hosting a coat drive in November, so please consider donating.

As we approach Thanksgiving, let’s take this opportunity to express our gratitude for the community we are a part of and the people who enrich our lives. It’s also a time to reflect on the blessings we have received and find ways to give back—whether that’s volunteering at a local charity, supporting a food drive or simply lending a helping hand to a neighbor in need.

Looking ahead, November 25 is Small Business Saturday, a day dedicated to celebrating and supporting local businesses, which are the backbone of our community. As you prepare for the holiday season, consider shopping locally and supporting the unique stores and boutiques that make Spring Lake and Sea Girt vibrant and diverse places to live.

For me, November acts as the quiet before the December storm. We eagerly anticipate the warmth of Thanksgiving, a time marked by family connection, appreciation and, most importantly, a spirit of giving back to our communities and honoring the extraordinary individuals who positively influence our lives each day.

In this edition of Spring Lake magazine, we are delighted to share stories that resonate with the spirit of gratitude and community.

Our cover article features someone very special to us all—Ray from Ray’s Café in Sea Girt. For years, Ray’s Café has been the “Cheers” of our community, serving not just hot coffee and

Brynn Coleman Publisher

Spring Lake MAGAZINE

Editor & Publisher Brynn Coleman Group Publisher Jodi Bruker Art Director Sue Park Copy Editor Nancy Fass Writers Justine Bouton Kate Czyzewski Vincent Dicks Dallas Hlatky Maria O’’Donnell Jay Russell Kerry Serzan Lead Photographer Michelle Wolfe Photographers 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 Advertising Services Director Jacquelynn Fischer Operations Director Catherine Rosario Production Designer Chris Ferrante Print Production Manager Fern Meshulam Advertising Production Associate Griff Dowden Spring Lake magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Spring Lake and Sea Girt, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Copyright 2023 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

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Experience the magic of the holiday season at Charlie’s

CHARLIE’S OF LINCROFT

CHARLIE’S OF BAYHEAD

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Brunch with Santa on December 3rd. The Village Carolers will be performing the evenings of December 9-11

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Brunch with Santa on December 10th.

Christmas in Bay Head Friday December 2nd

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WHAT’S NEW

Around Town

BY JUSTINE BOUTON

SPRING LAKE TREE LIGHTING The festive spirit will illuminate Spring Lake on November 25 as the community gathers for the annual tree lighting ceremony, marking the start of the Christmas season. The event kicks off at 6 p.m. and promises enchanting performances by the Spring Lake Theatre and Dance Academy and the cast of “Scrooge.”

Following the illumination of the Christmas tree, attendees can enjoy a delightful meet and greet with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus at the Spring Lake Community House.

CHRISTMAS TRAIN VILLAGE UNVEILED Starting November 26, the Spring Lake Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Clayton Limousine Service, will enchant the community with the annual Christmas Train Village display. This meticulously crafted exhibit, showcased at Duggan Hall from 12 to 5 p.m. daily from November 26 to December 31, features a charming replica of Spring Lake, adorned with iconic landmarks and Santa Claus’s key destinations, ensuring a magical experience for all.

AUTHOR JOHN FORTUNATO AT SEA GIRT LIBRARY On November 13 from 5 to 6 p.m., Sea Girt Library will host a compelling talk by local resident and author John Fortunato. Fortunato will discuss his book, “Miracle of Effort: Thalia’s Autism Journey,” which aims to inspire autistic individuals to reach their full potential and offer hope to families. To attend, please email SGLibraryEvents@gmail.com or call 732-449-1099. Copies of the book will be available for purchase for $10.

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY Embrace the spirit of community and shop local on November 25 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. as Spring Lake celebrates Small Business Saturday. Show your support for beloved neighborhood businesses while completing your holiday shopping early.

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

As the holiday season approaches in our beautiful towns of Spring Lake and Sea Girt, there’s a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on our communities by supporting locally-owned businesses. Beyond the twinkling lights and festive decorations, there lies a vibrant tapestry of small enterprises that form the backbone of our towns and cities. These local shops, boutiques, and eateries are more than just places to buy gifts; they are the heart and soul of our neighborhoods.

By choosing to shop locally, we not only find oneof-a-kind treasures but also nurture the growth of our community. Each purchase made from a locally owned business resonates far beyond the transaction, creating a ripple effect that strengthens local economies, fosters innovation, and builds a sense of belonging. So, this holiday season, let’s come together and celebrawte the spirit of giving by supporting the businesses that make our communities unique and vibrant.

FINISHING TOUCHES

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With the holidays upon us, it is time to think about festive tablescapes and thematic décor that will bring a warmth and a special flair to your home this season. Finishing Touches and their showroom full of design inspiration has unique gifts and accessories to complement your holiday look.

Palm Place is a Lilly Pulitzer Signature Store. We are your destination shop for women’s dresses, tops, and workout wear. We also carry our Little Lilly collection of girl’s clothing. We opened this Location in the Fall of 2022 here in Sea Girt Square and we are under new ownership.

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Ray of Gratitude Many Sea Girt residents grew up eating at Ray’s Café and now bring their own children for the delicious casual fare and friendly atmosphere.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHELLE WOLFE

BY VINCENT DICKS

For 30 years, Sea Girt resident Ray Litzinger has been serving up meals for the community. With his dad in 1993, he started Ray’s Café, a luncheonette in the Guinco market building at 523 Washington Boulevard.

Litzinger, originally from Bloomfield, did not know much about Sea Girt. “I ran a deli up north and met Bob Guinco.

I thought a place at the Shore would be a good opportunity and something to do with my dad. He loved the Ray’s idea.”

Litzinger co-owned the business with his father, Ray Sr., before his death in 2012.

Warm and Welcoming With its bright, newly updated interior and clean, open kitchen, the café is as inviting as the smiles from the staff. “I have been so blessed by finding good people to work here,” says Litzinger.

“The jobs get passed to younger sisters and cousins; they know it’s a good environment. Many of them came here

to eat as kids, and now they are moms themselves. I have always looked after the neighborhood kids who come in. People know, Ray’s is OK.” The food—coffee, well-executed omelets and pancakes, a dynamite pork roll with egg and cheese, classic burgers, salads and wraps—is simple, but well worth returning for. “The main street luncheonette is becoming rare, but it works here in Sea Girt,” Litzinger says with a smile.

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Ray Litzinger, owner of Ray’s Café and Sea Girt resident.

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“I never imagined how special the people of this community would be. We have been given so much by the people of Sea Girt.”

– Ray Litzinger, Sea Girt resident

A Special Community “I never imagined how special the people of this community would be,” says Litzinger. “We have been given so much by the people of Sea Girt.” If you attend events in the borough, you’re likely to feel the comment could be reversed. A Ray’s Café sign typically sits on a table where something is being handed out for free: hot chocolate, hot dogs or a donated gift basket. Or Litzinger is volunteering to coach basketball or cooking a charity spaghetti dinner. “I do those things to give back. I have gotten way more from the community,” he says.

Litzinger used to serve people who caught the bus to Manhattan.

During the pandemic, that business all but disappeared. “You would not believe it. People came in during that time and bought gift cards, hundreds of dollars’ worth, with no intent to use them.

It was a beautiful gesture.”

Part of the gratitude Litzinger feels stems from the support he received when he needed it most.

Top and center: Ray’s Café, inside and out. Above: Litzinger chats with a staff member. “I have been so blessed by finding good people to work here,” he says.

“I had bypass surgery and was out for six weeks. This place didn’t miss a beat; everyone pitched in.

We got so much food dropped at our doorstep that we could not possibly eat it all. It was humbling.”

Although Litzinger still works more than 350 days a year, he has cut back, closing his Spring Lake location a few years ago and focusing on catering. “People know we close at 2:30 p.m., but they drive by and see us cooking late in the day. We did a few large parties and then built it by word of mouth.”

Litzinger, who lives on 8th Avenue with his wife, Melanie, a private school guidance counselor, has raised his two children in town. “The Sea Girt Elementary School has exceeded all our expectations. The level of care and attention our kids have received is almost unheard of in a public school. I think the people in Sea Girt recognize how special this place is. It’s just different. We are all lucky to be here.”

Vincent Dicks is a Sea Girt resident and author of several books. He specializes in writing about the history of the Jersey Shore. Learn more at www.vincentdicks.com.

NOVEMBER 2023

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Adria Mollicone, a barber and a partner at Father’s Mustache in Spring Lake, came out of the pandemic determined to help others.

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Cutting for a Cause A local barber and a partner at Father’s Mustache, Adria Mollicone finds many ways to help those in need.

BY DALLAS HLATKY

Adria Mollicone had been cutting hair

for more than a decade when the pandemic brought her work to a halt. She used that period of pause to find herself and her purpose. So, when she went back to work at Father’s Mustache on Morris Avenue in Spring Lake, where she is now a partner, she went back with a mission: to help others.

The barber shop began by donating a portion of its revenue to charity. Customers would donate extra money. Proceeds went to local community organizations like Dottie’s House for battered women and Just Believe for homeless veterans.

Donating Skills and Time Through those early efforts, a woman reached out to Mollicone in March 2021 and asked if she would be interested in donating her time and skills to an event to support people experiencing homelessness.

At the first event, Food Angels, a group based in Brick, distributed home-cooked meals to over 200 people. In addition to

meals, the event offered showers, clothing and haircuts. Mollicone was one of 25 volunteer barbers.

Mollicone has been back every other Sunday since, come rain or shine, cutting the hair of people in need of housing.

Unfortunately, there is no homeless shelter in Ocean County, so the area outside the Lakewood Police Station has become a gathering point for these events and services.

The Impact of Caring Mollicone’s journey to service highlights how powerful it can be to go beyond donating and give time, service, skills and, above all, care. “I ended up using my God-given gift,” says Mollicone. “I’m not going to fix this broken system, but I can help with the day-to-day. I can make sure they have a haircut, a warm coat and extra snacks.” She feels her grooming services can help her clients find the work they are so earnestly searching for.

In addition, last year Mollicone organized a coat drive. Her goal, which she achieved, was to collect 100 coats that would be distributed to those in her Sunday community.

The clients at Father’s Mustache have been supportive. “One of my customers said if you can’t get to 100, I will pay to get to 100.” In reaching out to support a community in need, her Spring Lake community has shown up and grown stronger.

Every act—big or small—makes a difference, says Mollicone. And giving benefits the giver as well as the receiver.

Reflecting on the impact that the last two-and-a-half years have had on her perspective and priorities, Mollicone says: “I’m definitely more of a minimalist. I used to always want. Now I’m content.”

Dallas Hlatky is a local writer and the artist behind Merle Works, which offers hand-dyed goods, from socks to shoelaces and more: www.merle.works.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHELLE WOLFE

CONTRIBUTE A COAT During November, Father’s Mustache will once again be a drop-off point for a local coat drive. While you’re there donating a coat or getting a shave and a haircut, talk to Mollicone. If you’d like to get involved or just learn more, she’ll have a lot of suggestions for ways to give back.

NOVEMBER 2023

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Left: Beach manager Joe Erbe with Dan Finn in the 1980s. Right: Betty Karl and Finn posted at the North End pool.

Celebrities of Summer

Dan Finn and Betty Karl, two long-serving members of Spring Lake’s beach and pool staff, talk about what the job means to them.

For many who frequent Spring Lake’s

beaches and pools each year, summer doesn’t begin until they see two familiar faces.

Dan Finn and Betty Karl are among the longest-tenured employees in the borough.

With a combined 75 years of service between them, these two have earned their position as the official heralds of the summer season in Spring Lake.

“If the first day of summer happens to be a day when they aren’t here, everyone is asking, ‘Where’s Dan, where’s Ms. Betty?’ For many,

it doesn’t feel like summer until they see them.

They have such a presence here,” says Lauren Gargiulo, beach manager, who has worked alongside Finn and Karl for the past 11 years.

Bryan Dempsey, borough administrator, says it’s people like Karl and Finn who make this town a place unlike any other. “Spring Lake is like Disney, and Dan and Betty are Mickey and Minnie Mouse,” he says. “Everybody wants to say ‘hi’ to them. Our residents expect to be treated with kindness, to be cared about and listened to—and that’s what Betty and Dan do.”

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHELLE WOLFE

BY KERRY SERZAN

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PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHELLE WOLFE

Betty Karl and Dan Finn, longtime beach and pool staff members, have a combined 75 years of service between them.

NOVEMBER 2023

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“I come here and it’s like a shot in the arm.

Being around these young people keeps you young. I just totally love the whole job.”

- Betty Karl

She Never Forgets a Face If the beach and pool staff make up one big family, pool-badge checker Karl is the resident grandma of the group. From her place of honor at the gate of the North End pool, Ms. Betty (as she is called by those under 60) welcomes thousands of residents and guests each season with a warm smile and a listening ear. And while she admits she may not remember all the names, the Spring Lake Heights resident said she never forgets a face.

A mother of two, grandmother of six, and great-grandmother of four, Karl has spent the last 25 summers by the sea here.

“When I started out as a gate attendant on the beach in 1998, I ended up at the North End pool where I have been now for more than 22 years.” Karl has watched with awe and delight as the children have grown, year after year, eventually turning up with their own young children in tow, ready to enjoy another wonderful Spring Lake summer.

“I come here and it’s like a shot in the arm. Being around these young people

keeps you young. I just totally love the whole job, especially working with the young people, the guards, the maintenance staff. Everyone is so kind and respectful and does a great job,” she says.

I Know Dan, Too Finn has devoted an astounding 50 summers and counting to Spring Lake Borough. He grew up on Ludlow Avenue, raised his three children—Shane, Kelli, and Dylan—in Sea Girt and in the offseason worked as a middle school science teacher.

Not surprisingly, says Dempsey, after 50 years Finn knows so many people they had to have T-shirts made that read, “I Know Dan, Too.” He started as a locker boy in 1971, became a lifeguard in 1975 and served as beach manager from 1984 to 2019, when he suffered a stroke. Thankfully for the staff, residents and visitors, Finn was able to return to the beach and continue to outshine the summer sun with a smile, warm laughter and his genuine way of making people feel special and seen. He

currently assists with the management of the “Orange Crush,” the borough’s hardworking maintenance crew.

When asked what he enjoys most about working in Spring Lake, Finn says, “I love the people—Betty, Brian, Lauren, everyone here. I love it all.”

It’s easy to see the feeling is shared.

During our short meeting for this article on the Saturday of Labor Day weekend, I tried to keep count of how many people came up to say hello to Finn and Karl. It was hopeless. Seemingly hundreds of folks of all ages came along to interact in some special way with these two during our interview. Later, as I gathered my things to leave, I overheard a now-familiar refrain.

Two women at the gate were asking the attendant something.

“Are Betty and Dan around today?”

Kerry Serzan is a freelance writer and local mom of four.

Through her writing, she not only shares the beauty of her community but also celebrates the ordinary moments that make life extraordinary.

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And we should show love and appreciation for those who cook it by eating it with relish.”

- Mark Bittman

I’m the first to admit that I am not a good cook and I barely get by if my husband isn’t home. However, being married to someone who used to be a chef, I have refined my palette over the years. We at Thunder Road Books want to share some of our favorite new cookbooks—some that may have missed your radar this season.

“RECIPES FOR MURDER: 60 DISHES THAT CELEBRATE THE MYSTERIES OF AGATHA CHRISTIE”

by Karen Pierce Karen Pierce, like many of us, is a huge fan of Agatha Christie. We’re continuously impressed by cocktail books and cookbooks that weave literary elements through them.

Christie’s most well-known character, Hercule Poirot, is a man of good taste. He prefers many European delicacies, such as the “perfect omelet” or Oysters Rockefeller, as in “Murder on the Orient Express.” This book shares accessible recipes, history and lots of mystery musings!

“THE GRAZING TABLE: HOW TO CREATE BEAUTIFUL BUTTER BOARDS, FOOD PLATTERS & MORE”

by Natalie Thomson You may have heard of the term “girl dinner,” which seems to be gaining popularity on social media. Essentially, The New York Times explained, girl dinner is meant to be anything you have around or have a taste for, from cheese plates and wine to leftover chipotle and some grapes. What I love most about this book is the idea of “boards” bringing us together, as some of our best bonding experiences come from a shared meal. In this edition, the Duck & Watermelon Board and the Smashburger Board are not to be missed!

“SEAFOOD SIMPLE”

by Eric Ripert We are so lucky to be in Spring Lake and have one of the best seafood restaurants around— Spring Lake Seafood! Each time I visit, I leave inspired to attempt to create that perfection at home. This book—a definitive seafood guide from the three-Michelin-starred chef of Le Bernardin—is elevated and sophisticated, but not unattainable in its execution. Living where we do, we’d be remiss to not include a seafoodinspired cookbook!

“PORTICO: COOKING AND FEASTING IN ROME’S JEWISH KITCHEN”

by Leah Koenig I’ve long been fascinated with Italy, and it’s on my bucket list to travel there one day. So I was thrilled to see “Portico” released from W.W. Norton this season. Not only does this book share some truly delectable recipes, but Koenig’s photos and history behind the “why” of this book are beautiful.

Katherine Czyzewski is the events and store manager of Thunder Road Books. Find her @thesaltybookworm on Instagram.

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LIFE OUTDOORS

The Joys and Challenges of Surf Fishing A basic primer from an avid local angler

BY JAY RUSSELL

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PHOTOGRAPHS BY VINCENT DICKS

It’s been said that if a person fishes

only to catch a fish, that person should find a new hobby. Sure, we all want to catch a fish, but there is so much more to the pleasures of fishing, and no type of fishing illustrates that better than surf fishing.

The seasons dictate the type of fish to target. It’s fair to say that the predominant species being fished locally is the striped bass. Some anglers prefer to bait a hook with clams or fish chunks, while others like using artificial baits that imitate what stripers feed on. Sounds simple, right?

It’s not, but that’s where the fun and the challenge begin.

Learn by Doing While fishing boats are armed with sophisticated electronic fish-finders that bring the anglers to the fish, surf fishermen must find the fish themselves. The angler

relies on being able to “read” the water, looking for spots likely to hold fish.

In addition, he or she must know what type of prey the target species is feeding on to decide what type of lure to use.

Understanding the tides and moon cycles plays a big part in determining the when, where and how of hitting the beach. There’s no shortcut to gaining this knowledge; you just have to get out there. Even a trip that yields nothing is valuable if you learn something.

How to Get Started Want to give it a shot? Start by visiting a local tackle shop and talk to the people who work there. They’ll help you get set up with a rod and reel combo along with some of the basics, such as lures and surf rigs. You’ll want to have a basic understanding of how to cast a spinning reel, but otherwise, you just have to get out

there. Of course, having a buddy who surffishes and is willing to help you get started is invaluable. The one thing you don’t want to do is walk up to a stranger who is fishing and start pumping them for their secret spots and favorite lures. They might volunteer that info but surf-casters, while almost always friendly, are notoriously guarded about their favorite spots. You just have to find your own.

Understand that the learning curve is steep, and, in the beginning, you’ll come home having caught nothing—something fishermen refer to as being “skunked”—far more often than not.

On a final note, like everything we do, safety comes first. Never put yourself in positions where danger exceeds your knowledge of it.

Jay Russell is a local runner and fisherman. You can find him running the boards every morning and surf casting along the beaches of Spring Lake and Sea Girt most evenings.

NOVEMBER 2023

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Loc at i o n s & St o r e Ho u r s v i s i t : www. c o n e ywaffl e . c o m 732- 556- 6951

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Coney Waffle opened in Belmar, NJ in 2016, followed by locations in Asbury Park, Long Branch and Red Bank, NJ, and now Coney Island in Brooklyn, NYC.

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Every Monday & Tuesday enjoy our new Surf-n-Turf special for $25.99

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BETTER HEALTH

Dental Implants: Precision Perfected Unveiling the advantages of guided implant surgery over traditional methods

BY PAUL A. GALANTE, DDS, ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL SURGEON

Dental implants offer both functional

and cosmetic benefits. Implant surgery, like many dental services, gets better and more advanced over time. Guided implant surgery is a new, state-of-the-art procedure that, when combined with years of experience, gives oral surgeons the ability to place implants more efficiently, precisely and accurately, using cone beam 3D imaging. This advanced technique allows for near-perfect anatomic positioning of implants both surgically and restoratively, resulting in maximum patient function, comfort and esthetics.

The Technology The Axeos 3D Imaging system brings the latest 3D technology to Campi Dental, offering unparalleled visual insights into anatomical details. This not only facilitates precise treatment planning but also empowers us to provide our patients with comprehensive information about their recommended treatments.

This exciting technology gives us the ability to diagnose potential issues more accurately and provide treatment with unprecedented confidence. Unlike a traditional spiral CT scanner, this 3D system utilizes cone beam CT technology and provides precise, crystal-clear digital images while minimizing the patient’s exposure to radiation.

Is It Right for You? If you’re embarking on the journey of getting dental implants, choose guided implant surgery for a streamlined and precise experience tailored just for you. With 3D imaging and virtual planning, we can map out the entire procedure in advance, resulting in a more comfortable and efficient surgery. Guided implant surgery minimizes risks, accelerates healing and enhances the long-term success of your dental implants. Say goodbye to uncertainties and

Top: Dr. Paul Galante and Dr. Joseph Campi consult on a guided implant surgery case. Bottom: a state-of-the-art Axeos 3D Imaging System (left) and a virtual guided implant surgery model (right).

embrace a personalized, technologically advanced approach for a smile that’s not just restored but perfected. If you feel you may be a candidate for guided implant surgery, please don’t hesitate to schedule a free consultation.

Dr. Paul Galante is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon at Campi Dental in Wall. He is a recipient of the Top Dentist Award from New Jersey Monthly magazine for three years running. A graduate of Fordham University, Dr. Paul received his dental degree from NYU College of Dentistry and completed his fellowship and residency training program in oral and maxillofacial surgery at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. He has over 30 years of experience in many aspects of oral surgery, but his true passion is changing patients’ lives with dental implants. By performing guided implant surgeries, he’s able to do that at an even higher level. For more information visit www.CampiDental.com or call 732-449-2228.

THE BENEFITS

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LOCAL TASTES

’Tis the Season for Soup One benefit of living in the Northeast is having the right weather for soups and stews.

AUTUMN PUMPKIN BISQUE RECIPE FROM DAN HENRY INGREDIENTS: • 2 chorizo sausage links cut into small pieces (use bratwurst links if preferred) • 1 medium sweet onion diced • 3 garlic gloves minced

BY MARIA O’DONNELL

• 6 cups chicken broth (recommend 3 cups of low salt and 3 cups of regular broth) • 1 can (29 ounces) pumpkin • 1/2 tsp kosher salt • 1/2 tsp nutmeg • 1 tsp of muscovado sugar (or dark brown sugar) • 1/2 tsp black pepper • 1/4 tsp cinnamon • 1 cup heavy whipping cream

Talented home chef Dan Henry with a batch of his Autumn Pumpkin Bisque (recipe on right).

• 1 cup of high-quality cheddar cheese, freshly grated DIRECTIONS: 1. In a Dutch oven, cook the chorizo until crisp.

Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

2. Sauté the onions in the chorizo oil (add additional neutral oil if needed) until translucent—recommend lowering the heat to avoid burning.

3. When the onions are almost finished, add the minced garlic and sauté for 60 to 90 seconds.

Stir the garlic frequently.

4. Add the chicken broth and deglaze the pan.

5. Add pumpkin, salt, pepper, nutmeg, muscovado sugar, pepper and cinnamon.

6. Stir and then bring to a boil.

7. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes.

The Jersey Shore is known for its fantastic summers,

but fall is no slouch with its changing leaves, hot apple cider, fresh-picked apples, local produce still available at the farmers’ markets—even local turkeys for the Thanksgiving table. Fall at the Shore does not fall short!

To celebrate the season’s arrival, here is a delicious soup recipe from Spring Lake resident Dan Henry, a talented home cook. This recipe is a keeper and would be a unique addition to your Thanksgiving table.

8. Cool long enough to put into a blender (you’ll likely need to blend in batches).

9. Blend until smooth and return to the Dutch oven.

10. Add heavy whipping cream and cheese, and heat on low until warm.

11. Serve with extra cheese, fried chorizo, canned crispy fried onion—or any combination thereof, based on your preferences.

Maria O’Donnell is a Spring Lake resident and passionate food writer.

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