bay magazine summer 2025

Kitchen Design by Woodhaven Kitchen & Design Center for Ted Fluehr Jr. Custom Homes

Designer: Yasmin Deren

Photographer: John Martinelli

Photography by John Martinelli

CO-FOUNDER | CHAIRMAN PUBLISHER

GARY HENDERSON

CO-FOUNDER | EDITORIAL CREATIVE DIRECTOR

FARRELL DUNLEAVY VP OPERATIONS

LUELLEN HENDERSON

CONCEPT & STYLING WEDDINGS

JEANNE COON-BOGATH

BOGATH WEDDINGS AND EVENTS

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

MICHAEL JOHN MURPHY JOHN MARTINELLI MICHAEL SPARK ROBIN CHASE

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

JENNA COWPERTHWAITE LISA SIMEK DENISE PETTI SARAH HODGSON CAROLYN MIJAL

SUSAN VON BRACHEL ANNE GREEN ADVERTISING SUBMISSIONS GENERAL INQUIRES

SUMMER MODE

It’s funny how quickly “summer mode” kicks in, bringing with it the full splendor of beach life. We graciously fill our days with iced coffees to accompany a morning sunrise over the ocean, the bounty of freshly-caught local seafood, and warm, salty breezes late into the evening. It’s really quite easy to surrender to the time-honored lure of summer on Long Beach Island, and we hope you join us in taking full advantage of these glorious months to fill your cup and exalt in life. Seek out some delicious food from the best of our island’s restaurants, take the plunge and do that home renovation project, and soak in the extra time with your loved ones. We know how many of you wait all year for the Memorial-Day-through-Labor-Day splendor, and we’re right there with you. Enjoy!

Founders

Photo by Abigail Kane

Winner of the Southern Regional High School Photo Scholarship - Sponsored by Bay Magazine

The

Build with an Architect™

A SHORE THING

Inside Joe and Linda Ritzel’s Custom Coastal Retreat

Written by Denise Petti Photos by Real Estate Cinema

Perched on a pristine stretch on the southernmost point of Long Beach Island, Joe and Linda Ritzel’s new oceanfront home stands as a seamless blend of thoughtful architecture, family tradition, and laid-back coastal living. Designed and built by Michael Pagnotta Architecture + Construction, this 5,500 square-foot property is more than a vacation spot, it’s a multigenerational retreat made for gatherings, celebrations, and savoring time by the sea.

“We really spent a lot of time planning this,” says Joe Ritzel, reflecting on the process. “It’s not just about looking pretty. It had to work for the way we live.”

That mindset is evident in every detail, from the functional layout to the layered design elements. Triple-tiered decks maximize the oceanfront lot’s generous footprint, offering spaces for everything from sunbathing to shaded relaxation to rooftop revelry. The crowning feature is a set of rooftop putting greens dubbed “The Putting Plover,” named by a family member after a friendly contest.

“People don’t use their roof decks enough,” Ritzel laughs. “We figured if we made it fun, then everyone would come up here more often, and they do.”

Inside, the home balances coastal charm with polished design, courtesy of Pagnotta Interiors. A standout is the custom bunk room, playful yet elevated, with built-in full-size beds, crossbars for a nautical look, and accents like porthole mirrors and life-preserver décor add a ship-like character that kids and adults alike can appreciate.that feel straight off a vintage yacht.

“We went with wide nautical stripes,” Ritzel says. “We wanted it to feel whimsical and also polished.”

Entry from the beach is equally smart. Coming in from the outdoor showers, family members can toss towels

into the laundry and shed sandy gear before stepping foot inside the lower living area. “It’s so simple, and yet it’s the little things that make such a huge difference,” Ritzel notes.

Personal touches infuse warmth throughout the home. Artwork created by Ritzel’s family members hangs throughout the lower level, a reminder that this home was built as much for family memories as it is for aesthetics. Philly pride runs deep here, too. A red-and-blue color scheme nods to the family’s loyalty to the Philadelphia Phillies.

“We’re season ticket holders,” says Ritzel. “It’s nice to have a little home-town team spirit down here.”

The great room upstairs is a showstopper. A grand barrel ceiling arches overhead while two islands anchor the kitchen, one for meal prep, the other a full wet bar. “Linda and I started talking about where to put the wet bar,” Ritzel recalls, “and then the idea came to us, why not just do two islands?” The result is both functional and aesthetically stunning, with a blue-and-white palette, a custom range hood, and a basket-weave backsplash providing rich visual texture.

“I’ve never seen a space like that on a top floor,” Ritzel reflects, surveying the light-filled room framed by panoramic ocean views.

“Even on a rainy day, it feels good. A rainy day at the beach is still better than a rainy day at home.”

A small deck off his office offers a moment of calm, paying homage to LBI history with black-and-white photos, including a framed shot of the home that once stood on the prop-

erty. “I got that from the woman who originally built the house,” he says. “She gave it to me when we bought the property. It’s a sweet piece of history.”

That history is more than decorative, it helped shape the property itself. In the late ’70s, a couple originally built two neighboring homes on the site. One stipulation, by deed, was to build one of the houses to the side in order to preserve the other home’s ocean view. Decades later, that legal detail would enable the Ritzels to combine the lots, creating the very footprint that so spectacularly defines their new home.

Ritzel’s journey to this corner of Holgate began fifteen years ago, when he and his family bought a home in Ship Bottom. “We had quick access on and off the island, but it got really crowded for us in the summer,” he remembers. Searching for more privacy, they were drawn to Holgate’s quieter vibe. “It’s perfect. We’re close enough to restaurants and Fantasy Island for the kids, and yet we are able to escape the traffic and the crowds. It really feels like our own little world down here.”

That world is one filled with refined design choices: wood ceilings in the master suite, transom windows that let in morning light without harsh glare, and a large lap pool built into one of the decks, all carefully considered and curated. “I didn’t want it to be too wide, can’t have someone stumbling out the door into the water,” Ritzel jokes.

Every inch of the home supports connection: large gathering areas for meals and games, private corners for reading or reflection, and a constant, comforting view of sea and sky.

“I’ve built homes before and always had that ‘I wish I had...’ feeling,” Ritzel says. “Not this time. I wouldn’t change a window.”

As the sun dips behind the dunes and the lights of Atlantic City flicker in the distance, the home exudes a kind of quiet joy. Proof that with the right team, a clear vision, and a deep appreciation for family and connection, a house can truly be more than a home, it can become a legacy.

In Full Bloom

How the Reynolds Family Transformed LBI’s Landscape and Spirit

Written by Lisa Simek Photo by Little Island Media

It’s easy to forget that not long ago, Long Beach Island’s landscape was defined by little more than sand, stone, and concrete. Yards were mostly barren, front porches opened onto gravel driveways, and gardens— if they existed at all—were rare and minimal. But for nearly five decades, a quiet transformation has taken root. Thanks to the vision, creativity, and tireless work of the Reynolds family, LBI has blossomed into a haven of hydrangeas, native grasses, flowering pathways, and thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces. What was once stark and sun-bleached has blossomed into something lush, layered, vibrant, and full of life. And at the heart of it all is a family whose love for the Island runs as deep as their roots in its soil.

The Reynolds family—visionaries behind Reynolds Landscaping, the Garden Shop, and the Floral Market—have built far more than a business. They’ve shaped a coastal institution. A simple drive down East Bay Avenue to the Shops at Reynolds offers a glimpse into the depth and breadth of their offerings. The impeccably curated destination encompasses a serene

garden center, expansive nursery, full-service landscaping offices, a home interiors boutique, stylish women’s and children’s boutiques, a thoughtfully curated gift shop, and a charming coffee bar. Yet beyond the beauty of what they’ve built, the true essence of Reynolds lies in what they’ve cultivated over the decades: a legacy of beautification, generosity, and unwavering commitment to the community they love. Built on family and fueled by passion, their influence extends far beyond gardens—it lives in the heart of Long Beach Island.

The story began in 1981, not long after Peg and Mark Reynolds were newly married. Both had steady jobs— Mark dealing cards at a casino in Atlantic City, Peg working as a surgical assistant—but neither felt fulfilled. They shared a deep love for nature and dreamed of building something of their own, something outdoors, something beautiful. What they couldn’t have known then was that they were about to shape the visual identity of Long Beach Island itself.

That dream began to take shape on a 3.5-acre parcel of

land in Manahawkin, home to Peg’s parents’ business, Playland Golf. Sensing the young couple’s passion, Peg’s parents, Bill and Dot Cullen, offered them a small corner of the property—a modest sliver of land where Peg could sell her handmade flower arrangements, creative planters, and holiday baskets. Mark built the roadside stand himself, and together, they began the journey of a lifetime.

Peg’s creations were instantly captivating. At a time when LBI’s yards were stark and floral design was virtually nonexistent, her work stood out. She had a gift for bringing charm and personality to everything she touched. Her Easter baskets—filled with pansies, daffodils, ivy, and spring bulbs, often tucked into vintage tins, hand-painted pots, or weathered crates—became a local sensation. People would make special trips just to see what Peg had dreamed up next. Her imaginative containers and flair for color inspired an entire aesthetic that had simply never existed before on the Island.

That first spring, she made five Easter baskets. By the next year, she was making ten times as many. Her arrangements weren’t just pretty—they were soulful, joyful, and entirely original. Customers returned season after season, not just for the flowers, but for the feeling they evoked. Peg’s love of blooms became her calling and, inevitably, Mark’s as well.

Soon, neighbors started asking them for help with small outdoor projects—basic property maintenance at first,

and eventually more. As Mark brought Peg’s planting ideas into clients’ yards, something clicked. Her sensibility, paired with his work ethic and attention to detail, began to reshape the Island’s landscape. Little by little, garden beds bloomed where there had once been only stone. Clients were enchanted by the lush, layered gardens.

“When Peg and I first started, beautifully landscaped gardens weren’t really a thing on LBI,” Mark says. “We were among the first to bring that soft, cottage garden look—hydrangeas, ornamental grasses, perennials—to the island. It’s been amazing to see how that style has grown and become part of the local landscape identity.”

Those early years weren’t easy. Mark recalls the first five years as financially challenging. “We were losing money,” Mark laughs, “but Peg was such a giver— she’d give plants away to customers just because she wanted to make them smile. I had to look the other way. But it worked—people loved her. They kept coming back. And pretty soon, we had something real.”

Peg became Mark’s teacher, sharing everything she knew about flowers and design. Mark, with his relentless attention to detail and client service, built the landscaping business with care and integrity. His early clients were professionals from Philadelphia and New York—second homeowners who brought with them high standards and a desire to enhance their beach homes. They quickly recognized that the Reynolds were

Photo by Ann Coen

offering something exceptional. Their gardens weren’t just beautiful—they were soulful, thoughtfully designed, and meticulously maintained. Mark consistently delivered more than promised. His work wasn’t just functional; it was transformative. Word spread.

As demand for landscaping grew, so did their humble corner roadside stand. The following year, Peg and Mark built their very first 15-by-30-foot storefront—a charming greenhouse structure salvaged from an old farm, repurposed into a quaint shop to keep up with the island’s growing interest in a wider variety of plants and garden design. As word spread and loyal customers returned season after season, the shop continued to grow—expanding bit by bit, with new offerings and thoughtfully designed spaces added along the way. Today, The Shops at Reynolds span multiple buildings across an entire city block in Manahawkin—chic, serene, and meticulously curated, featuring everything from garden goods and florals to boutique apparel, home décor, and gourmet coffee. With every expansion, the Reynolds family listened to their customers. They added shrubs, perennials, and seasonal offerings. They began selling pumpkins and Christmas trees, home décor and clothing. The business evolved to become not just a nursery, but a lifestyle destination.

What makes the Reynolds story so remarkable isn’t just their business success—it’s the way they’ve done it: as a family, with heart. Every generation has found its place in the business. Daughter Katie now runs the Floral Market, creating lush wedding florals and everyday arrangements. Her husband, Tanek, leads the high-end interior/exterior lighting design division. Son Luke runs the entire landscaping construction, hardscape, and water feature business, while his wife Ashley manages the retail Shops at Reynolds alongside Peg and her other daughter Ashley, who is a teacher by trade but still returns each summer to help run the store.

Though Mark could easily step back and enjoy the fruits of his labor having built a thriving, multi-generational business, he’s simply not wired that way. He’s a builder in every sense of the word—someone who needs to stay active, creative, and hands-on. For him, work isn’t about obligation—it’s about expression. His latest venture, Reynolds Builder Contractor, grew organically. Clients who had trusted him with their landscapes began asking him to renovate kitchens, manage additions, or even build entire homes. With more than 45 years of experience, Mark naturally stepped into this expanded role. “It’s not about the work anymore,” he says. “It’s about the art of build-

ing. This is how I express myself.” Today, he’s designing and building custom homes that reflect the same thoughtful craftsmanship and coastal elegance that have defined the Reynolds brand from the beginning. He doesn’t have to do it—but he can’t imagine not doing it. It’s his art form, his passion, and another way he continues to shape the beauty and fabric of the community he loves.

And for all their growth, the Reynolds have never lost sight of what matters most: community.

True to their values, the family has always believed that success means little unless you use it to lift others. The Reynolds Family Foundation was born out of that philosophy. In less than two years, the Foundation has already donated more than $105,000 to local causes—helping families facing cancer, homelessness, house fires, and food insecurity. They have funded scholarships across the LBI, Stafford Township, Southern Regional, Barnegat, and Pinelands school systems, supported children facing medical and financial hardship, provided a defibrillator to the ball field in Stafford to ensure that life-saving equipment is readily available, and assisted families and communities from Little Egg Harbor all the way to Waretown.

They’ve built and donated Stafford Township’s Community Garden, where anyone struggling with hunger can pick fresh produce, no questions asked. They host beloved events like the Bunny Hop 5K and the Reynolds Family Foundation Garden Party, combining their talents with local businesses to fundraise in style. They partner with and support local nonprofit organizations like David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation, Jetty Rock Foundation, Compassion Café, and Waves of Strength.

“Wherever there’s a need, that’s where we’re trying to help,” Peg says. It’s more than a philosophy—it’s a way of life. “We’re not just writing checks,” Peg adds. “We’re moving trucks, setting up tables, decorating, doing whatever it takes to help. We’re hands-on.”

The Foundation has become a trusted connector between homeowners who feel deeply tied to LBI and the causes that need support. These families want to give back, and the Reynolds Family Foundation simply shows them where the needs are.

Now, the fourth generation is beginning to carry that legacy forward with purpose and pride. Grandson Cullen volunteers with Waves of Strength, serving as a surf instructor for children with special needs and helping them experience the healing joy of riding a wave along LBI’s shores. Granddaughter Ellie is also

an enthusiastic volunteer for the Reynolds Family Foundation, from donning the Easter Bunny costume at the Bunny Hop 5K to lending a hand at numerous events throughout the year.

“We’re trying to show them how important it is to give back,” says Peg. “And we hope it becomes something they carry with them for the rest of their lives.”

This year marks 45 years in business for the Reynolds family—a legacy rooted not just in flowers and gardens, but in stewardship, heart, and meaningful transformation. Over the decades, they’ve cultivated far more than landscapes; they’ve nurtured a living testament to their values, their deep connection to community, and the natural beauty of Long Beach Island.

Their story continues to grow from the same soil where Peg first planted seeds of beautiful blooms and where Mark poured his heart into building something lasting. It’s no overstatement to say that the lush gardens, welcoming porches, and artfully landscaped yards that define LBI today are, in many ways, reflections of their vision. But they didn’t just shape how the Island looks—they helped shape how it feels.

As they celebrate this milestone, Mark and Peg remain deeply grateful—for the community that embraced their dream, for the next generation now walking beside them, and for the chance to continue doing what they love most: creating beauty that lasts.

“We never set out to build anything grand,” Peg reflects. “We just loved flowers, and we loved this place. Everything else blossomed from there.”

To get a true sense of the heart and vision that the Reynolds family brings to everything they do, visit The Shops at Reynolds at 201 E Bay Avenue in Manahawkin, and stay inspired year-round by following @ reynoldsgardenshop, @reynoldslbi, and @ reynolds_lighting_design on Instagram, and join their mission of giving back through @reynoldsfamfoundation.

Photo by Little Island Media

LIVING ON VACATION

Biophilic Design with Tracy Cavelli of Oskar Huber Furniture & Design

Written by Lisa Simek

Step inside any well-styled coastal home and you’ll likely feel it before you even know what it is—the airiness, the calm, the presence of nature that somehow makes the indoors feel... alive. That’s the essence of biophilic design, a trend-turned-lifestyle movement that blends natural elements into interior spaces, supporting wellness, mood, and that elusive feeling of “living on vacation.”

At the heart of this movement is Tracy Cavelli, a designer at Oskar Huber Furniture & Design and a lifelong artist with an instinctive love for all things botanical. Her passion for creating meaningful, nature-inspired interiors is rooted in her unexpected beginnings—as a florist.

“I’ve been a florist since I was 14,” Cavelli shares. “I fell in love with flowers the moment I stepped into the shop owned by a close family friend of my mom and dad’s. Eventually, I owned my own florist in Bayonne for twelve years, and that design work—the color, texture, the art of it—translates so naturally to interiors.”

Now, as a coastal designer, Cavelli has found the perfect stage for her plant-forward, soul-soothing aesthetic. “Biophilic design isn’t just a trend,” she explains. “It’s essential. Bringing the outdoors in can literally help clean the air. Spider plants, philodendrons—there are so many that filter out toxins and convert carbon dioxide to oxygen. Plus, plants are healing. They make people feel good.”

Now based in LBI, Cavelli has fully embraced coastal biophilic design—an approach that intertwines the laid-back spirit of the shore with elements that reconnect homeowners to nature.

“When you live near the ocean, it’s part of your identity,” she says. “So bringing the sea indoors just feels right. That can mean artwork featuring surfers or mermaids, using colors like soft greens, blues, and sandy beiges, or integrating natural materials like rattan, driftwood,

and abaca rope. It all works to echo the outdoors in a really grounded, comforting way.”

She emphasizes that coastal biophilia is as much about feeling as it is about looks. “You want to feel like you’re on vacation in your own home. The textures, the colors, even the sounds—ocean waves, birds, rainfall—all contribute to that peaceful vibe. That’s what people are craving right now.”

According to Cavelli, you don’t need a green thumb or an overhaul budget to bring biophilic beauty home. Her top tips for summer include:

Add Live or Lifelike Plants: “I always sneak at least one plant into every design,” she laughs. “Real plants are my preference—there’s nothing like the grounding effect of nature. But if you don’t have a green thumb or you’re not around much, the quality of today’s faux plants is amazing.” Oskar Huber stocks realistic silk plants that Tracy often recommends to clients who want the look without the upkeep.

Keep Fresh Flowers on Rotation: “A vase of freshcut seasonal flowers in the kitchen or bedroom can transform a space. Summer is the time for tropicals, peaches, pinks, bold reds. Change the water every few days and they’ll last up to two weeks.”

Lighten Up Textures and Fabrics: “Use linen slipcovers—they’re light, washable, and perfect for sandy feet and salt air. Add in coastal motifs like starfish or coral on pillows and quilts for subtle beachy flair.”

Natural Accents Are Key: “Whitewashed woods, rope-wrapped lighting, driftwood-inspired decor— these tactile elements really evoke the coast.”

Create Flow and Space: “Today’s trend is definitely less is more,” Cavelli adds. “Don’t overfill the room. Give yourself space to move, to breathe. Let the design flow—feng shui-style—even if you’re not a master in it.”

While Cavelli insists that every client brings their own vision to a project, she’s known for one consistent thing: connection. “I listen—really listen,” she says. “And I always try to read between the lines. Sometimes clients say one thing and mean another. My job is to help them discover what they truly want—and often, that means incorporating a bit of nature, whether they realize it or not.”

Her ability to build rapport is perhaps her secret design weapon. “People often come in just looking for a couch,” she says with a smile, “but when they leave, they’ve got a whole new vision for their home. One that helps them feel better. Live better.”

Asked if she practices what she preaches, Cavelli laughs. “Oh, I live it. My home is filled with plants. I’ve downsized, but I still garden. I keep it simple and peaceful. That’s the beauty of biophilic design—you don’t need to go big. You just need to bring in elements that make you feel connected and calm.”

In an era when stress is high and nature feels far away, Tracy Cavelli and Oskar Huber Furniture & Design are helping coastal homeowners create sanctuaries—places where wellness, beauty, and beachside ease coexist in every room.

Because, as Cavelli puts it, “Why wait for vacation to feel like you’re on vacation? Bring it home. Live it every day.”

We don’t just build homes We Build Dreams

PROUD INSTALLERS OF NOVIKSTONE, THE LEADER IN STONE SIDING

MAINTAINING A BEAUTIFUL OUTDOOR SPACE

Written by Jenna Cowperthwaite

Maintaining a functional and beautiful outdoor space in a harsh salt environment often requires a significant investment of time and planning. To fully capture the true restful retreat experience of Long Beach Island, many homeowners choose to rely on an expert to handle it all, ensuring that their home is ready for enjoyment as soon as they arrive. Ash Outdoor offers the superior attention to detail and high level of customer service required to keep your backyard thriving throughout the year.

Proud of the island they call home, David and Ryan Ash, the father-son duo behind Ash Outdoor, have laid the foundation for their business in striving to keep our eighteen mile strip brimming with innate beauty. Harboring a soft spot for the classic Long Beach Island yard, they specialize in helping a new generation care for family homes, maintaining the traditional charm of the seaside community while incorporating select updates for technological ease and a welcome hint of modern design. It’s quite helpful having a team so intimate with the nuances of our unique maritime climate, as they carefully craft a maintenance schedule accordingly. Plus, given their close proximity, they are intrinsically available for any unexpected emergencies. Whether you are looking for landscape maintenance, pool maintenance, or an entirely new design for your outdoor space, Ash Outdoor unlocks the full potential of your property.

LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE

It’s important to protect your investment with meticulous care and regular upkeep. Ash Outdoor’s core estate maintenance package is tailored to each individual property and accounts for specific challenges with Long Beach Island’s weather and soil conditions. Each package includes a spring clean up and fall clean up, plus monthly maintenance visits throughout the summer, which include weed control and fertilization. Your package can be supplemented with additional services such as gardening, tree and shrub pruning, and annual and container plantings to keep your home welcoming and vibrant.

POOL MAINTENANCE

A backyard pool can be an invaluable addition to your outdoor lifestyle. The team at Ash Outdoor provides a maintenance package tailored to ensuring optimal performance and longevity of this investment feature. Their package includes basic pool opening and closing, plus weekly mainte-

nance from Memorial Day through Labor Day to promise crystal clear water and perfect pH balance. Additionally they offer a host of other services to safeguard the allure and safety of your pool, including pump and heater repairs, automation setup and repairs, tile and coping repair and installation, pool renovations, replastering, and pool safety covers.

DESIGN AND BUILD SERVICES

If you are starting from scratch or would like to completely rework your outdoor space, Ash Outdoor has got you covered there, too. They have developed a flawless process to seamlessly achieve each client’s vision. Beginning with a design consultation to get to know you, your property, and your family’s lifestyle, the closely collaborate with you to imagine all of the gorgeous possibilities for your yard. The project budget and timeline are also discussed in this brainstorming session. Once both parties clearly define the direction for the project, a formal proposal is submitted and the Ash Outdoor team conducts a site evaluation. This part of the process involves not only taking measurements, but also documenting specific details relevant to design and layout, such as sun positioning and possible shadows throughout the day. The designers then use their specialized software program to create a photo-realistic rendering of your specific home’s landscape, hardscape, lighting and other outdoor living features. Any adjustments are made to incorporate client feedback, then the final design and project budget are solidified, along with a schedule. Once your vision comes to life, the team continues to maintain the space through the years.

Discerning homeowners want to make sure their investment can withstand the elements, thus preserving the beauty of their outdoor oasis. The team at Ash Outdoor knows that a space carefully nurtured and cultivated over time creates harmony from within. More information can be found on their beautiful new website, designed to inspire, educate and facilitate the design process at ashoutdoor.com.

Your Dream Shore Home, Built on Your Lot

Walters Homes brings your luxury coastal vision to life with expert craftsmanship, right where you want it.

Summer on the Jersey Shore is a unique kind of luxury –especially on Long Beach Island (LBI). From sweeping ocean views to peaceful beach-town atmosphere, LBI remains one of New Jersey’s most treasured coastal retreats. For many, owning a home here is a lifelong dream. This summer, longtime LBI builder Walters Homes is making that dream more attainable than ever with a stunning, pre-designed 5-bedroom home built right on your own lot.

This 2,620 square foot residence is thoughtfully designed for modern coastal living, featuring 5 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, a two-car garage, multiple private decks and an elevator. Every detail reflects Walters’ commitment to quality craftsmanship, coastal durability, and effortless style.

“We are passionate about helping others bring their coastal dreams to life.”

– ED WALTERS, JR., PRESIDENT AND FOUNDER OF WALTERS

Inside, you’ll find high-end finishes like hardwood floors, quartz countertops, quality 1951 cabinetry and energy-efficient Café appliances. Andersen 400 Series windows and sliding doors bring in natural light and sea breezes, while private decks on the first floor, second floor and roof offer options for outdoor entertaining. Designed for the shore, this home is ideal for both year-round residents and vacation homeowners.

Walters has been a part of the LBI community for decades. Over the years, they’ve built homes – and trust – with over 1,600 Jersey Shore homeowners. Their streamlined design

and building process gives homeowners the perfect balance of hands-on control and expert guidance.

For Ed Walters, Jr., President and Founder, building on the Shore is more than just construction – it’s personal. Walters grew up on LBI, where he developed his love for building homes by helping his parents build their own home in Surf City in the 1970s. “This is where it all began and this is what inspires us to bring our home building experience to communities all over Long Beach Island and beyond,” said Walters. “We are passionate about helping others bring their coastal dreams to life.”

Start your dream home journey with the Walters Architecture team, who use state-of-the-art tools and property analytics to create a home that fits your lifestyle and maximizes your lot’s potential. Homeowners can even further personalize their space at the Walters Design Center, either within the pre-designed plan or with a fully custom approach.

Walters is ENERGY STAR® certified and committed to quality, with their award-winning team – including a recent win at the Shore Builders Association’s FAME Awards. No matter what you want, this team’s expert guidance will help you create your perfect island retreat.

If you’ve been dreaming about building your ideal beach house on LBI – or anywhere along the Jersey Shore – Walters can make it a reality this summer. With a fully designed luxury home ready to be built for an incredible price, and a dedicated team of experts at every step of the way, Walters offers an easy and personalized way to achieve coastal living, right on your own property.

Ready to build? Contact Walters today to view floorplans, schedule a consultation, and make your dream a reality.

About Walters

Walters has been building quality homes at the Jersey Shore since 1984. The company offers Architecture and Custom Homes, and all-inclusive services that seamlessly bring a homebuyer’s dream vision to reality. Walters Architecture is a complimentary service that allows homebuyers to work with in-house architects to design the perfect home with the latest technology and quality building materials. Walters Custom Homes offers newly designed custom home plans that help homebuyers through the homebuilding process. Every custom home built by Walters meets or exceeds the energy efficiency requirements for ENERGY STAR® certification. Walters is located at 701 Central Ave, Ship Bottom, NJ 08008. To learn more, call 609.361.7000 or visit waltershomes.com.

Walters Architecture, LLC. - Lic # N.J. 21AC00111000

A STUNNING PROJECT IN ANY ROOM OF YOUR HOME

Written by Jenna Cowperthwaite Photos by John Martinelli

When Woodhaven Lumber & Millwork was founded by James T. Robinson in 1977, his vision was to provide building supplies at competitive prices for Jersey Shore builders and residents. As the years went on, his sons joined him in this endeavor, and together they evolved their lineup of products and builder services to continually meet the needs of their customers. They added windows and doors, kitchen design, flooring, trusses, and even closets to their repertoire over the decades, along with a team of experts dedicated to each specialty. Of late, they heard their customers asking for products and services to fully build out another room in the home: the bathroom. Woodhaven answered that call in a big way.

They brought in an extensive selection of tile to each of their locations, curated a group of the most experienced bathroom designers, and even added a fifth design center. “This significant evolution is a symbol of Woodhaven’s dedication to ensuring that our customers continue to thrive,” explains Paul Glinn, Sales Manager. “The reason this long-standing family-owned and -operated business continues to exist is quite simply our commitment to provide the best for those we serve.”

The same personalized experience that Woodhaven has long provided to help clients design their dream kitchen seamlessly transitions into a reliable approach to designing bathrooms, as well. True experts on the wide range of products they carry, Woodhaven’s bathroom design team invests a great deal of time and thoughtful consideration at the very onset of a project in order to decipher each family’s unique home and lifestyle. This understanding allows them to make precise recommendations in regard to logistical layout, practical materials, and an aesthetic that perfectly suits each client’s taste. As they progress through the process to the specific elements for each component, Woodhaven designer Krystina Lancaster explains, “The designers often make a mood board, pulling together vanity doors, flooring, hardware and tiles to bring each vision to life.” Having tangible pieces for every aspect of a design project helps enormously in building out the perfect room.

And tile is literally the piece of the puzzle that pulls it all together, as it is an integral element in many bathroom projects and covers a wide array of executions. A porcelain floor that mimics the unmistakable warmth of hardwood and marble, but with the convenience of easy clean-up and low maintenance perfectly suited for a wet environment. A custom shower in virtually any color and configuration. An eye-catching waterfall effect to impart a spa-like atmosphere or unique pebble tile to bring unparalleled artistry underfoot. With so many ways to incorporate tile into a bathroom, it becomes a great way to further personalize the space.

With one of the largest selections in Ocean County, Woodhaven’s lineup of wall and floor tiles builds out not only gorgeous bathrooms, but also ideal commercial spaces, wet bars, laundry rooms, and so much more. Their designers offer skilled guidance in selecting the appropriate material for each application. Tile is a marvel, in that it has the ability to be pulled in for super practical reasons, commonly boasting minimal care and high durability, but is used for purely aesthetic considerations just as often, since it can add distinctive beauty.

At this juncture, almost fifty years after its founding, Woodhaven Lumber & Millwork has the remarkable ability to facilitate a stunning project in essentially any room of the home. From the foundational building materials all the way through to the finishing touches, like a beautiful mosaic, their team is ready to help build out your space.

DESIGNING FORWARD

Written by Jenna Cowperthwaite

As a designer, Louis Shaw of Louis Shaw Designs embraces the philosophy of “designing forward” in every sense of the word. “I tend to stay away from trendy styles and, instead, combine classic elements with modern accents to create something timeless,” he explains. His philosophy also extends in a metaphorical way to his approach regarding specific pieces in a client’s space. He has found that many people wish to save certain pieces of furniture, whether for sentimental reasons in a family heirloom, financial considerations with an investment piece, or simply to be more environmental and sustainable. And this method of “designing forward” is a particular passion for Louis: taking a treasured piece of furniture and restyling it to bring new life. By artfully combining a fresh take on color, finish, hardware and functionality, he prioritizes his clients’ dreams to completely transform items they already have.

A FOREST-INSPIRED DINING SET TAKES ON A COASTAL BEACH VIBE

A Ship Bottom couple had a cherished dining set they wanted to use in their home; the problem was, however, it did not at all suit the coastal aesthetic of their waterfront location. The base and legs of the table and chairs were dark hunter green—a harsh contrast to the couple’s bright, airy space. Louis refinished the green in a beautiful bright white to lighten up the furniture, but kept it feeling cozy and warm by keeping the original wood table top and chair seats. He also included some distressed areas for added character and a slightly more relaxed vibe. One of his professional tips is that “when including a distressed element to your pieces, it helps to hide any bumps or scratches.” He even enhanced the overall functionality of the dining set by placing additional chairs, in a casual, comfortable fabric, at each end of the table.

A SUBSTANTIAL WOOD BED GETS A SERENE MAKEOVER

When a client bought their beach house, they were delighted that most of the furniture was included. The king-size bed in the master bedroom was absolutely gorgeous; a solid wood headboard and footboard in a unique, basket-weave pattern. It was finished in a very dark stain, however, and the homeowner did not like the way it made for a heavy atmosphere in the room. With such a high-quality item, Louis knew he could keep its integrity while accommodating a more serene, brighter ambiance in the space. He painted the bed a designer white and distressed the edges to bring in a more rustic elegance appropriate for casual beach living. With some soft gray bedding and pops of blue in the lamps, area rug and wall art, the space instantly feels coastal and sophisticated.

A DRESSER REMINISCENT OF THE SAND AND SEA

When Louis was approached to manage a rental property in Beach Haven West, he surveyed the home to make sure it would be an appropriate addition to his portfolio of vacation rentals. While it had great potential, he identified a few critical updates, including flooring and furniture layout, that would elevate the home to offer the type of luxury living space his clients have come to expect. One particular piece in the bedroom, an unfinished wood dresser, caught his eye as the perfect piece for a console in the den. He painted it a gorgeous grey-blue, then strategically sanded down a few areas to reveal some of the natural wood, creating an effect reminiscent of the sand and sea. Fresh, updated hardware and a few coats of polyurethane to protect the finish complete the package. The blue tones of the dresser were echoed in the window treatments and area rugs, pulling the entire space together. As this was the homeowner’s favorite piece in the primary bedroom, she was thrilled that it could remain in the home with a new life.

A HUTCH MADE FOR SEASIDE LIVING

Louis was brought in for a Ship Bottom home remodel, and the homeowner had one simple request when it came to her furniture: to save the original foyer hutch. It held great sentimental value to her, and Louis was determined to give the piece the perfect makeover so it would blend beautifully with the updated aesthetic he crafted in her home. The new round mirror, in a gor-

geous sandy color, selected to hang on the wall in the foyer inspired the makeover for the hutch. Louis refinished the piece in a matching light creamy paint to give a unified welcome upon entry into the foyer. Changing out the hardware went a big way in making the hutch feel more modern, and Louis completed the overall effect with some sleek, ocean-inspired decor atop the updated piece.

With an eye that expertly marries sustainability and beauty, Style Vacation Homes by Louis Shaw offers clients solutions to transform existing pieces into heirloom quality furnishings that dramatically enhance the overall home.

ARestfuland Luxurious En-Suite

Written by Jenna Cowperthwaite Photos by Michael Spark

Home is ideally always a sanctuary, but with two teenage daughters in the house, a secluded place of retreat can feel absolutely necessary. And what better place than the master suite? For these Barnegat homeowners, however, an outdated master bath located in a small corner off their bedroom did not offer much solace. While working with Marc and Candyce Lape of Elegance Surface Concepts to develop a solution, they decided to convert their current bathroom into a peaceful sitting area and build an addition to hold a luxurious en-suite.

The couple wanted a very sleek, modern look that echoed the clean, geometric feel of the rest of their home. Elegance Surface Concepts emphasized a smooth, efficient, uncluttered monochrome design by finishing the entire space with gorgeous warm-grey large format porcelain tile. The floor tiles are a 30” x 30” square in a matte finish, a sophisticated choice for a non-slip surface with a soft, velvety texture. The interior shower walls are a whopping 48” x 108”, making a simple, streamlined enclosure, and the remaining bathroom walls are finished in a glazed 24” x 48” tile in a variety of grey tones that accent beautifully with the floor. Together the tiles artfully blend in a way to avoid monotony, while

ultimately serving to foster a calm, soothing atmosphere. And by keeping the foundation of the room quite understated, they were able to design a bathroom in which the textures and rich details steal the show.

The tile flows seamlessly into a steam shower, complete with multiple shower heads. Elegance has a great deal of experience with the subtle nuances of installing a shower this technical in nature. One of the most critical factors is building a perfectly calculated sloped ceiling to prevent dripping of condensate. The mechanics for the steam generator are discreetly housed in a built-in shower bench which can be easily accessed through a posterior closet, should there be any mechanical issues in the future. The homeowner did not want a transition between the shower and the rest of the bathroom, so Elegance installed a subtle envelope cut in the center of the shower floor to facilitate draining, keeping the exterior floor perfectly dry. The homeowner also requested a long, rectangular window on the back wall of the shower to both provide some natural light and echo the architecturally striking details in the rest of her home. Since it was a stationary window, Elegance was sure to recommend a flip vent in the upper portion of

the shower door for proper ventilation. Due to the exclusive relationship Elegance has with Twin City Glass, custom shower doors like this are no trouble for their customers.

A decadent walnut vanity was configured to run the entire length of the east wall. As a substantial piece of furniture, it serves to offer a grounding presence in the open space. Topped in a warm, creamy-colored quartz, the overall effect is quite luxurious. White rectangular vessel sinks continue the upscale, spa-like feel of the space, and wall-mounted faucets offer sleek style along with superior practicality in regard to cleaning and counter space. A six foot mirror above the vanity, custom-made by Twin City Glass, houses three integrated light fixtures. While the homeowner was initially a bit nervous about the seemingly large size of the lights,

she trusted the recommendation of Marc and was delighted with the perfectly proportional result.

A separate water closet adds privacy and functionality, and Elegance included an upper window to keep it from feeling too closed off. The heated floor throughout keeps the space warm and relaxing, while a Kohler soaking tub invites a bit of indulgence. The floor mounted tub filler allows for complete freedom in tub placement and is certainly a symbol of luxury.

The homeowners now have a true place in their home devoted to rest and relaxation. With the expertise of Elegance Surface Concepts in regard to the layout as well as the design features, the en-suite feels both warm and spacious, welcoming yet sleek—a perfect complement to their master suite.

Edgewater ever After

A longtime family summer home on the bay gets the glow up of a lifetime

Written By Jenna Cowperthwaite

Photos By Raquel Langworthy Photography

How do you redesign a well-loved family home with years upon years of fond memories? This question was the driving force behind Design Manifest’s home renovation in Surf City. Naomi and Megan Stein, the sisters behind the Philadelphia-based interior design firm, had previously designed their client’s condo in Washington Park West. Their clients were thrilled with the results of this project, and were now ready to trust the firm with the renovation of their bayside home.

The beach house had been in the family for decadesenough summers that their children had grown and begun to return with grandchildren. Over the years, they had outgrown their previous cottage-inspired décor and years of accumulated objects and now wanted a cleaner, brighter, more sophisticated aesthetic. Design Manifest’s goal: to create a coastal vibe that was more unique and unexpected than your typical beach house, while paying homage to the layers of memories the family had collected over the years and gracefully serving three generations of family.

Cresting the top of the entry stairs treats you to the stunning view of the great room, an expansive living, kitchen, and dining space with a wall of windows overlooking the water. This view sets the mood for the entire home and was the major color inspiration for the project. One sentimental item was also key: a custom Theresa Losa painting, commissioned to feature each member of the family. Its hues of sandy taupe, soft coral, and calming blues were used as inspiration throughout the design.

The existing wood flooring - rich, dark, and overpowering - was sanded and bleached to create a washed-out, driftwood-inspired tone. Shiplap added clean detail to the walls throughout. Design Manifest improved the existing layout by selecting furniture with sleeker profiles, allowing for better movement between spaces. By tweaking proportions and positioning, the team was able to make the flow of the space much more functional.

The living room is the hub of many lively family gath-

erings, and so all of the fabrics were selected to be durable, bleach-cleanable, and family-friendly. The main sofa has a second set of slipcovers to be rotated out while the other is being laundered.

A shallow desk gave better clearance and was positioned at the window for soothing waterfront views while working. The desk chair doubles as extra seating for the dining room table. The rarely-used fireplace was replaced with custom built-ins, wallpapered on the interior with watercolor panels. The team upholstered a custom ottoman with a vintage rug for more pattern and texture.

The great room faces west, which means two things: beautiful sunset views, and aggressive afternoon sun! The solution to protect furnishings from UV light was a set of solar shades, motorized for ease of use, to cut down on damaging rays while preserving the outside view. The shades can be raised and lowered with the touch of a button. Patterned linen sheers add color and softness.

The existing kitchen was functional but needed brightening. Original cabinets were refreshed with modern hardware. Dark countertops were replaced with warm wood, and a fully custom wood island got a quartz countertop to further brighten the space. To create height, a custom range hood was made to match the existing cabinetry. The client’s original counter stools were reupholstered with a hand-printed linen, and a vintage runner and linen shade added more warmth and texture. Modern brass and glass lighting gives the finishing touch of sparkle.

In the dining room, the family’s beloved red hutch was freshened with a coat of blue paint, modern hardware, and a bright quartz countertop. The room was crowned with a beachy whitewashed wood chandelier. To fit the large family, a custom dining room table was built with leaf extensions to accommodate up to 12.

The design team tailored a vintage Turkish Tulu rug to fitperfectly in the dining area. Modern teak indoor-outdoor chairs with rush back & seats received custom cushions in durable navy patterned fabric. The DM team custom-designed a low credenza to preserve the bayside view.

The den is a cozy space where the clients do most of their TV-watching. To accommodate the entire family for movie nights, seating was maximized with a custom sectional that filled the room while fitting perfectly under the windows. Watercolor wallpaper

in blush waves give the feeling of being nestled inside a giant shell. Touches of texture were added with natural woven window shades and twin raffia ottomans that double as a place to set drinks. The room glows from the light of modern brass sconces shaped like constellations.

The first of two guest bedrooms has a custom bed designed to fit exactly under a wide bay of windows. Blue-grey grasscloth wallpaper envelops the room with a calming texture. The wool and jute blend rug in this space is a perennial Design Manifest favorite - it plays well with so many styles! A special hand-drawn ink and watercolor fabric, inspired by Italian Deruta pottery, was used for both the window treatments and the headboard. Patterns mix via the printed bed pillows, balanced by solid bedding in cream and navy. Using sconces rather than bedside lamps gives visitors more room to spread out. The floor space was optimized with a custom-built, wall mounted credenza, accented with playful surfboard-shaped modern brass pulls.

The second guest bedroom features a custom wood plinth bed built to the perfect ergonomic height. The rounded edges of the bed and dresser are both beautiful and functional, allowing freedom of movement around the small room without fear of bumping a corner. Blue striped wallpaper creates a soothing backdrop for energetic patterned bed textiles in cream and coral. A collected seashell art piece, gifted by a dear family friend, is given a place of honor over the custom navy desk. The wall-to-wall carpet, window shades, and a fringed abaca mirror all add natural texture, and brass hardware and lighting add a touch of modern glam.

Like the ebb and flow of the sea, this project centered the push and pull of cherished memories with a family’s desire for a more contemporary, authentic version of themselves as they are today. This home is now a harmonious blend of nostalgia and modernity, of color and neutral, of the traditional and the unexpected. Design Manifest’s mission to redesign this beloved family beach house was a heartfelt tribute to years of accumulated memories, and a bright look into many more joyful summers to come.

COMINGSOON

NEW DEVELOPMENT

Brant

Beach Yacht Club Area

New Construction

Creatively designed coastal new construction in the desirable Brant Beach Yacht Club area. This 4bedroom, 3 5-bath beach retreat offers 2,100 square feet of thoughtfully planned living space, featuring open-concept interiors, custom finishes, and an elevator. Enjoy ocean breezes and sweeping island views from the rooftop deck, or unwind by the saltwater pool an ideal setting for relaxed shore living. Still time for customization! Fall 2025 completion. Inquire for property details and pricing!

Beach Haven Crest Bayside

New Construction

Currently under design, this approximately 2,800 square-foot new construction home features 5 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, and a den/TV room. The open, reversed floor plan includes a custom kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances and an elevator. The backyard is complete with an outdoor kitchen and a saltwater pool. Enjoy endless bay views the list goes on and on. There's still time for customization! Inquire for property details and pricing!

6 W 20th Street, Barnegat Light, NJ 08006

This stunning new construction in Barnegat Light offers 2,500 square feet of reversed living with 5 bedrooms and 4 5 baths Enjoy coastal living just a short walk from the charm and amenities that Barnegat Light has to offer. Whether you ’ re spending your days at the beach, enjoying local dining, or soaking in beautiful sunsets, this is the ultimate retreat. Don’t miss out on the chance to make this dream beach house yours!

Offered At: $2,225,000

ON LEGACY AND LUXURY

Written By Denise Petti

For decades Greg Pouliot has been a defining force in luxury home construction along the Jersey Shore. Known for his master craftsmanship and deep understanding of coastal architecture, his work has transformed homes on Long Beach Island into destinations of elevated seaside living.

For LBI homeowners Brenda and Roy, Greg’s influence goes beyond blueprints and building materials. Tucked discreetly along the shoreline of Long Beach Township stands one of Pouliot’s most remarkable accomplishments: a sprawling custom estate that not only exemplifies coastal luxury but also serves as a family haven. For Brenda and Roy, longtime visitors to the island, this was never about building just a beach house.

“LBI has always been our sanctuary,” Brenda shared. “The moment we found this property, we knew it was going to be our family’s gathering place; a home filled with life, laughter, and a connection to the ocean.”

Their vision found its match in Pouliot, a builder whose intuitive design sensibility and attention to detail have become renowned throughout the region. With projects spanning Spring Lake, Brielle, and the heart of Long Beach Island, Pouliot is known not just for building homes, but for crafting deeply personal environments that reflect both the natural beauty of the coast and the unique personalities of their owners.

Brenda and Roy’s home is a testament to this philos-

ophy. The estate comprises two stunning structures: a 7,100-square-foot main residence and a 2,500-squarefoot guest house, seamlessly integrated into the oceanfront landscape. Every aspect of the design balances scale with intimacy, perfect for hosting extended family while maintaining individual privacy and comfort.

The main house is thoughtfully connected across multiple levels and includes eight bedrooms, a residential elevator, and a range of recreational and living spaces, from a home gym and game room to elegant gathering areas. Intricate coffered ceilings, custom moldings, and a grand foyer staircase are some of the spectacular standout interior features, brought to life by Pouliot’s signature vision and attention to detail.

At the heart of the home lies an expansive exterior living space featuring an outdoor kitchen, fireplace, spa and an elevated zero-edge infinity pool - an architectural feat that would challenge any contractor’s expertise.

“One of the most technically challenging elements was that pool,” Brenda explained. “Between the engineering and the materials, we knew it was a big ask, however Greg didn’t even blink. He delivered our dream space, and it’s where we spend most of our summer days.”

Just steps away, the guest house offers yet another layer of luxury. With four bedrooms, multiple baths, a roof deck, and a golf simulator that Roy cites as his favorite feature. It provides the perfect space for guests to relax

in their own retreat without ever leaving the property.

What truly distinguishes this home is the precision and artistry of the details. Unlike builders who rely on off-the-shelf solutions, Pouliot often pushes vendors to craft custom millwork, unique ceiling treatments, and architectural moldings that elevate each room.

“Every ceiling detail, every molding, every transition between spaces, Greg was hands-on and intentional with it all,” Brenda said. “We know there’s nothing else quite like it on the island.”

This kind of custom craftsmanship has become Pouliot’s signature. Specializing in oceanfront and bayfront properties, he understands both the beauty and the volatility of the coastal environment. His homes are built not just to impress, but to endure.

Building a home of this scale — and on a timeline that allowed the family to enjoy their first summer there — naturally came with its challenges. Brenda and Roy were equally impressed by Pouliot’s problem-solving.

“We had high expectations, and we kept adding to the plan. Greg rose to the challenge every single time,” Brenda noted. “Whether it was the engineering behind the pool or the timeline pressures, he made sure nothing compromised the final result.”

Now the home still feels fresh and beloved, a true legacy, designed to welcome future generations.

“This was about building a place where our children and, one day, our grandchildren can come together,” Brenda said. “It’s a home full of intention and love.”

LIVING THE COASTAL DREAM

Written

Anne Green

By

Studio Tagland Architects Callan and Moeller Construction

Photos By Jacob Snavely Interior design services by Karen and Co.

Whether you’re spending the season or a lifetime on Long Beach Island (LBI), the essence of coastal living is more than a look--it’ s a way of life. Timeless coastal charm and modern amenities make it a sought-after destination for both relaxation and adventure. At the heart of this style is a deep connection to the shore with wide open spaces that breathe, sun-washed color palettes that soothe, and natural materials that root and inspire. The award-winning interior design firm, K + co LIVING captures the rhythm of island living with calm, collected, and effortless elegance for homeowners that consider coastal an all-around vibe. Design thought leader, Karen Wolf describes her signature style: “Our interior design philosophy embodies minimalism without sacrificing warmth. Think clean architectural lines softened by organic textures and a thoughtful balance of light and space.” With more than a decade of design excellence, k + co LIVING is known for a laidback luxe style for clients from city to coast who are looking for design solutions that transform daily life.

Design Rooted in Expertise, Elevated by Vision

For homeowners on LBI like Larry Maier of Beach

Haven, a modern coastal approach transforms houses into sanctuaries – where every room invites the outside in, and every detail evokes the serenity of the sea. With years of experience and a deep appreciation for coastal living, k + co LIVING brings a modern, refined approachable touch to every project. From new construction to full-home renovations or thoughtful room refreshes, Wolf and her dedicated design team guide each homeowner through every step of the design journey to bring their vision to life seamlessly, and with intention.

A Coastal Sanctuary Reimagined

The Maier family’s newly completed residence captures the spirit of modern coastal living. Nestled along the shore, the home evokes sophistication and serenity that is deeply connected to its surroundings. Furnishings are comfortable and multifunctional using high performance-based fabrics for seasonal traffic. The living room opens to sweeping ocean views framed by ceiling-tofloor windows, flooding the space with light. A soothing palette of sea glass tones is grounded by sculptural furnishings, organic textures, and glass-topped tables where every detail is thoughtfully curated to blur the

line between inside and out. In the adjacent dining area, light wood cabinetry and modern coastal lighting echo the tranquility of the landscape just beyond. Reminiscent of the design elements of a ship where every square foot counts, storage is built into the walls, under beds, and into the seating. For the homeowner, space is more than a retreat. It is an expression of coastal life, elevated by thoughtful design and timeless comfort. “Karen and her team brought our vision to life in a way we couldn’t have imagined,” the homeowner shares. “Every space feels intentionally peaceful and connected to the beauty just beyond our windows. It truly feels like home.”

From frame to finish, K + co Living delivers a vision of modern beachside living that is refined, fresh, and uniquely personal. Whether you’re vacationing, visiting, or calling LBI your home, the modern coastal lifestyle invites you to live beautifully--with interiors that balance clean lines and natural textures, soft ocean-inspired palettes, and open, airy spaces designed to reflect the calm and simplicity of life by the sea. The experienced team of K + co LIVING has the resources and knowledge in place to manage any of your design projects--large and small, from start to finish. “Whether you’re reimaging your family’s beach retreat or creating your forever home by the sea, K + co LIVING delivers a seamless inspired experience--where every detail matters, and every space tells your story,” adds Wolf. “We embrace minimalism without sacrificing warmth.”

Shop the Shore Experience

To extend the K + co LIVING experience beyond the studio Karen and her husband, Matt Brown, created the K + co LIVING boutique – a retail destination that brings the textures, tones, and curated simplicity of modern coastal style into everyday life. Inside you’ll find a refined selection of interior accents, apothecary goods, coastal-inspired gifts and unique pieces that reflect Karen’s impeccable eye and design ethos. Personalized service and hundreds of unique home décor and furnishings are also available to the interior design trade at special pricing. There’s something for everyone, including Matt’s Man Cave, so don’t miss out!

SOUTH JERSEY ELEVATOR

Ordinary to Extraordinary

Showcase your home with Style Vacation Homes by Louis Shaw. We have partnered with vacation property owners for over 20 years, offering a wide variety of vacation home services. Combining our expertise in vacation home management with our unique approach to design, we have transformed homes from ordinary to extraordinary! At Style Vacation Homes, we believe today’s quality guests are looking for a home that will offer a resort-like experience. From the moment of first contact to the time of checkout, our hospitality team provides each guest with V.I.P service.

Schedule a free consultation today to learn how we can create a customized home management package that fits your needs.

Team up with Style Vacation Homes by Louis Shaw, and let us do the work so you can relax!

609.975.8268

www.stylevacationhomes.com

A Shack Reborn

How A. Richard Aitken Builder Recreated an Iconic LBI Landmark

For generations of Long Beach Island lovers, no sight evoked the feeling of homecoming quite like the Shack. Weathered, windblown, and standing defiantly in the salt marshes off Route 72 Eastbound, the humble two-story hunting cabin greeted travelers with a whisper of the island’s wilder, simpler past.

Officially known as the Happy Day Club, the Shack began its life in the 1920s as a duck hunting cabin and evolved into an unofficial icon of LBI — beloved by artists, beachgoers, and nostalgic locals alike. When storms and time finally reduced it to a tangle of timber after Hurricane Sandy, many mourned its passing. But for one homeowner, its spirit never faded.

That’s when Linda Pinkus teamed up with Rick Aitken, the master builder who helped bring her vision to life. “Linda had been fascinated by the Shack for years,” says Rick Aitken, who has worked with her on multiple projects since Hurricane Sandy. “She had paintings of it, collected Shack memorabilia, and when the idea came to recreate it as a guest house, it became something very personal. It was a tribute.”

Linda’s main residence, a stately coastal home called Ship Shape, shares the same oceanfront property. But it’s the new guest house — inspired by the original Shack — that’s captivating all who see it. Created using a single cherished watercolor by Carol Freas as the foundational inspiration, the project is a triumph of craftsmanship, memory, and reverence.

Aitken and his team are known for precision and excellence, but recreating the Shack demanded more than skill. It required historical sensitivity and storytelling. “We weren’t just building a house,” Aitken explains. “We were rebuilding a feeling, a piece of local heritage.”

Designed as a rustic A-frame, the guest house is actually composed of two mini shacks, cleverly joined to include two master suites. The open floor plan seamlessly connects a cozy kitchen and living room, anchored by floor-to-

ceiling Weiland doors that open wide to let the bay breezes in. The materials throughout reflect the home’s cohesive vision: a cedar roof, cedar siding, and cedar treads bring coastal authenticity and warmth, all while preserving a sense of understated, modern-day elegance.

In the kitchen, a classic farmhouse sink pairs beautifully with leathered quartzite countertops that evoke the warmth and texture of natural woodgrain. Hammered black door hardware, reminiscent of traditional ironwork, grounds the space in timeless, period-inspired charm. The interior design was a deeply personal endeavor, curated by Linda and her childhood best friend Kathy, who now lives in the home with her husband, John. Together, they created a space that pays artful homage to midcentury style, filled with handpicked accessories and vintage timepieces from the 1950s and ’60s. The result is an immersive experience, equal parts nostalgic reflection and fresh memory-making.

“And you can’t miss my 51-foot flagpole with the American flag,” Linda adds with a smile. “It’s got to be the biggest flag on the whole island.” Reflecting on the journey, she continues, “Working with Rick Aitken was an absolute joy. I trusted him completely throughout the process. He’s not just a builder; he’s a true craftsman and artist. He brought this dream to life with such care and integrity.”

detail, inside and out, was thoughtfully designed to honor the past. The landscaping, too, was carefully conceived to reflect the spirit of the original Shack. Tall ornamental grasses now border the property, cleverly concealing the pilings and echoing the way the old structure once appeared to rise mysteriously from the marsh. It’s both a visual illusion and a heartfelt tribute transporting visitors back in time the moment they arrive.

The roof structure posed a unique challenge... something Aitken likes to reframe as an opportunity. Aitken sourced whole trees from nearby forests, hauling and shaping the trunks themselves into custom structural beams. These were fitted into place with hand-forged steel brackets, designed to resemble modern-day joist hangers with an old-world soul. “We went to a local tree harvester to source everything,” he notes. “Every piece of wood has the spirit of this place in it.”

Nowhere is Aitken’s dedication more evident than in the railings, both interior and exterior. The pilings outside extend straight up through the decking to form rustic railings, a direct callback to the original Shack. Inside, he and his team harvested white oak from local swamps and forests, hand-carving each piece. The bark was stripped, branches trimmed, and the trunks cut to size. It took months to get it right, sculpting the railing into an organic, code-compliant masterpiece.

Every

Sometimes, the artistry extended beyond craftsmanship and into communication. “I am a very visual person, so when something was hard to imagine, like the raw railing concept, Rick would just mock it up in a few minutes on a napkin,” recalls Linda. “He’s known as the mock-up master.” Aitken and his team make it a priority to ensure clients fully understand what every element will look like before diving into such complex projects. Whether it was the round railings or another custom detail, Rick had a gift for balancing client vision with builder wisdom: “Sometimes you show the client what they want, and then you show them what they really need…and when they can finally see that, it makes all the difference.”

Though deeply rooted in history, the recreated Shack is no museum piece. It’s a lived-in, beloved space. This guest house’s loft, accessed by open stairs, Kathy’s personal painting studio, is a light-filled retreat that honors both her own artistic practice and the legacy of the many painters who once set their easels before the original Shack. Outside, the front of the home features a custom rain barrel, a nod to the original Shack’s rooftop catchment system, now cleverly transformed into a charming outdoor shower setup. The driveway lead-

ing up to it is paved with Black Locust wooden pavers, inlaid with ¼-inch brass anchors that add a subtle maritime elegance. At its center, a striking ship’s wheel design, which is a bold statement brought to life by Tim from Brick It in collaboration with Rick.

This isn’t the first time Rick Aitken and his team have turned Linda’s vision into reality. Over the past decade-plus, they’ve completed everything from small post-Sandy repairs to oceanfront investment properties and full-scale renovations for Linda. But this project, timed beautifully with the Shack’s centennial, was something special.

“It’s the coolest thing you’ll ever see,” Linda says with a smile. “And the fact that it’s going to be part of the 2026 LBI House Tour means people will get to experience that sense of history and love for the island all over again.”

In resurrecting the Shack, A. Richard Aitken Builder Contractor didn’t just build a guest house. They rekindled a collective memory, preserved a beloved symbol, and once again made the old new: with heart, craftsmanship, and a reverence for everything that makes LBI timeless.

A Stunning Lagoon-Front Home

Written By Jenna Cowperthwaite

Photos By Real State Cinema

Though Andres and Monica Hernandez, the force behind Builders22, are often sought out as custom home builders, they build their fair share of spec homes, as well, allowing them to fully flex their creative muscles. When they saw a prime lot for sale in Beach Haven West—boasting 120 feet of lagoon-frontage—they knew it was the perfect location to build the exquisite home they had recently been dreaming up.

Totaling 2800 square feet, Andres and Monica’s priority when designing the home was to maximize the lot in order to create a retreat perfectly suited for hosting large numbers of family and friends. After all, the primal draw of living on the water is real, and they knew that the home’s future buyers would most likely be holding many holiday dinners and summer cookouts with loved ones. Everything—from the main living area, to ample bedrooms and en-suites, to a gorgeous outdoor space—was designed around a place graciously suited to welcoming gatherings and complete relaxation.

Andres’ signature style, showcased in every house he builds, resulted in an elevated, intentional home.

To set a tone of luxury among the very foundational elements, he considered upscale amenities as standard, such as a Wolf and Subzero appliance package, high end finishes, and custom built-in closets. He also honed in on important functional details from the onset of the build, carving out space for the elevator and security cameras to eliminate future hassles for his homebuyers. And he carefully considered architectural elements like windows, seeking to bring in as much natural light as possible and offer water views in nearly every room.

Monica carried this thoughtful process through to the finish details of the home, as she chose vanities, kitchen cabinetry, lighting, flooring, tile and paint. She achieved an artful balance of elegance and modern style, making the home feel calm and welcoming. “I am always searching for carefully curated details that make a home stand out in a subtle way,” she explains. Using an earth-toned palette of grays and tans, the entire home effortlessly flows from one room to the next. To the simple colors she added a combination of beautiful, clean lines mixed with rich texture all throughout the interior; the effect is a classic design elevated by just

the right amount of unique details. Blackframed windows pop against the neutral greige walls. Splashes of shiplap—on the fireplace surround, select bedroom accent walls, a dining room feature—add interesting depth. Incredible light fixtures perfectly complement every space in the house.

Builders22 was able to include five bedrooms, offering overnight space for multiple guests, with three en-suite bathrooms to ensure extra privacy. An additional bathroom off the hallway, plus a half bath in the main living area round out functionality for a crowd. Infusing touches of luxury throughout every area of the home, Monica selected extra thick vanity tops in each bathroom, as well as upscale, glass shower doors. She added a note of distinction through the tile in each bathroom, pulling selections that are strikingly gorgeous yet simultaneously subtle. The master bathroom really shines with an oversized shower for two. Featuring an overhead rain shower system, a handheld shower option, and body spray jets, it brings a completely luxurious experience. The wood tile accent wall in the master bath continues the artful blend of cool grays and warm tans found throughout the space infusing a soothing, spa-like quality.

As they designed the layout of the home, Monica felt it was important to have an open concept living space. The great room flows between the kitchen, dining area and living room, ultimately through two sets of sliding glass doors onto the lagoon-front deck. The intentional contrasts, showcased again and again throughout the home, are echoed in the two-tone kitchen. White quartz countertops extending into a half-wall backsplash and crisp cabinetry make the space feel open and airy, while an expansive island and wide-plank flooring ground the space with the warmth of wood. The timeless allure of wood is used again in the dry bar with the added drama of a black stone countertop and full backsplash, carving out its own little nook within the grand living area.

The exterior of the home extends the casual opulence. Two decks running the length of the home on each story,

plus a magnificent rooftop deck, feature glass railing panels to emphasize an uninhibited view. A private in-ground pool and lounging area among a blend of premium artificial grass and pavers transform the ground level into a true oasis. Tall lamp posts along the lagoon emphasize the staggering amount of water frontage and help craft an intimate backyard retreat. The outdoor kitchen is simple without skimping on amenities; a granite countertop, 48 x 24 concrete-look tile, grill with hood, huge bar, and large-screen television mean people live outside just as much as they live inside.

This stunning, lagoon-front home is a perfect representation of Andres and Monica’s innate talent and nuanced eyes. They employed creativity, a keen understanding of family life by the coast, and upscale sensitivities to craft a true masterpiece.

LOVE, LIFE, AND THE POWER OF PRESENCE

How Yoga Is Shaping the Way We Celebrate in Long Beach Island

Written By Jackie Luzzo & Katie Ribsam

Alli and Eli’s love story began on Long Beach Island in June 2012. When Eli proposed during the pandemic shutdown in March 2020, the idea of a wedding with family and friends felt distant and uncertain. Still, they both knew—whenever it happened—it would be on LBI, a place they had each spent summers growing up.

That spring and summer marked their first time living on the island together in the off-season. The isolation of lockdown stirred something in them, especially Alli—a deep yearning, or as she puts it, “a desperation,” for connection and community. Alli began private yoga sessions with Katie, founder of Yoga Bohemia, practicing weekly

on her roof deck and attending beach classes. The experience sparked a deeper love for yoga, eventually leading Alli to join a Yoga Bohemia retreat in Costa Rica. She returned energized and inspired, and signed up for the studio’s 200-hour yoga teacher training in the summer of 2021—just before her October wedding.

Balancing a high-pressure NYC job and planning a wedding, the training became a sanctuary for Alli. It gave her space to move, breathe, and ground herself in the present moment. After graduating, she and Eli began taking private sessions together with Katie to stay grounded in the hectic lead-up to their big day.

Photo by Amy Dickenson

Photos by Katie Ribsam

Yoga became a shared ritual—an anchor for peace and connection. So, it was only natural for them to weave it into their wedding celebrations. Katie led a special group class for their wedding party on their Bayfront deck, surrounded by laughter, love, and the serene views of Barnegat Bay.

Alli remembers the moment clearly: “The practice left us energized, excited for the weekend, and grateful to share such an important aspect of our lives—yoga— with our closest friends and family.” On the morning of her wedding, she began her day with a private sunrise yoga session, calling it “a gift to nurture my mind, body, and soul—and to check in with my intention for the day, the weekend, and ultimately, my marriage ahead.”

Ali and Eli’s story is one of many that begin with love on LBI. What’s less expected, however, is how yoga has grown beyond a personal practice to become a meaningful part of weddings, reunions, and some of the island’s most memorable milestones.

In recent years, private group yoga classes have emerged as one of the most serene and sought-after wellness offerings. From sunrise flows on the sand to grounding practices on private decks, instructors bring the practice directly to the people, curating sessions to match each group’s intentions.

By April 2025, Yoga Bohemia had booked over 70 celebratory private classes for the summer season—and that number is expected to double. These small group sessions celebrate not only events like weddings or birthdays, but also the everyday magic of connection: friendships, family, and simply being alive.

Each class is personalized. Participants are invited to share their needs, themes, and even their fears, shaping a meaningful, collective experience. The goal is always the same: help the group slow down, connect with their breath, and come together in presence.

Yoga teacher Laura Huston recalls guiding a family across three generations. Grandparents moved gently, parents found stillness, and the children playfully mimicked postures through their first-ever yoga class. Amy Dickinson fondly remembers a giggling bachelorette group, unsure at first but then confidently flowing through each pose and making unforgettable memories together. Justine Henderson highlights a longtime private student—an 88-year-old stroke survivor who, through weekly chair yoga, regained strength and balance and is working toward joining a public chair yoga class with the hopes to add a powerful social aspect to his healing.

Time spent on Long Beach Island reveals something special: this is a place where love blooms, relationships deepen, and memories are made across generations. It’s no wonder yoga—rooted in presence and connection— has found a home here.

So whether you’re on LBI for a celebration, a vacation, or simply your everyday life, may you find a moment to move, to breathe, and to reconnect—with yourself and with each other.

To learn how you can become part of the growing yoga community on LBI, visit one of Yoga Bohemia’s three Long Beach Island locations or book a private class for you and your loved ones. Find more details at yogabohemianj.com.

From Barre to Bride

Black Sheep Studios Offers Group Classes for Bachelorette Parties

Written by Sarah Hodgson

The stereotypical bachelorette party may be falling by the wayside as more and more brides-to-be are choosing to give their wild weekends a wellness slant. “I Do Crews” (especially the ones jaunting around Long Beach Island), are trading their booze for boxing gloves - and they’re doing it at Black Sheep Studios.

Well maybe not all of their booze...

“Disclaimer. We actually give all the bachelorette parties champagne after class,” said Devon Karvan, owner of Black Sheep Studios.

Black Sheep Studios opened its doors in 2016 as a single location spin studio. With almost ten years of business behind it, the LBI gym has grown into a multi-location fitness brand offering an extensive menu of workout classes: HIIT, beach barre, pilates, circuit training and Bala Bangles. And now, bachelorette classes.

For Karvan, the bachelorette workout trend began to grow a few years ago. In the summer of 2024 the trend skyrocketed. Why?

“I think so many people are active in their day-to-day lifestyles. They don’t want to skip days if they don’t have to. That includes vacations and long weekend getaways.”

With an overall cultural shift towards healthier habits, people are striving to maintain a balance between food, drink, exercise and career. So it should come as no

surprise that more brides and grooms are balancing out their frivolous benders with a bit of fitness.

But bachelorette party fitness classes provide more than just much-needed movement. They also add a unique element to the cliche premarital getaway.

“It’s something for everyone to do during the day aside from just sitting on the beach,” said Karvan. “We love roasting and relaxing but there’s something to be said for getting up a little early and getting that fun workout in beforehand. It’s a great way to start the weekend.”

From cycling and beach boot camp, to barre and cardio dance, I Do Crews can choose any class offered at Black Sheep. They can even select the location: the studio, the beach, or their rental home.

“We often book bachelorette parties, as well as groomsmen, in circuit classes or kettlebell classes. We also do mellow classes like yoga on the beach or a stretch and sculpt. I always tell the groups to be mindful of what they are doing the night before if they have an early class...”

But even if groups have bar hopped into the wee hours of the morning, the Black Sheep team is well-equipped to handle a hungover bunch.

“I mean, I’m biased but we have super fun instructors and the best offering of all level group classes around, in my opinion,” said Karvan. Adding, “We are all a bit wild and get really into teaching private classes. Typically, everyone is a good sport and it’s super fun to mess with the brides or grooms.”

From the music to the intensity, every bachelorette class is customizable.

“We always tell the MOH or whoever is setting up the private class that they are more than welcome to send us any song requests they want. We’ve had requests for 80s, 90s, hip hop. We will cater to whatever the bride wants!”

All you have to bring? A towel and some water.

“We give the bride some extra goodies to make her outfit pop. A tiara and a bridal sash are usually included..” said Karvan.

More than the celebratory energy and attire, Karvan’s favorite part of the ordeal is seeing her clients’ faces before and after a session.

“There’s usually some trepidation upon arrival. A handful of hungover ones. But leaving, they’ve most likely sweat out all the alcohol and are feeling great,” she said.

“Then we give them more alcohol. Hair of the dog, right? It’s all about the balance!”

For more information about Black Sheep Studios and their bachelorette party classes, visit www.blacksheepstudiosnj.com

SIGNATURE HOLE SPOTLIGHT:

GOLF STRATEGY FROM THE PROS AT LBI NATIONAL

By Christopher Vanacor, Pro Shop Manager, & Rolf Strobel, Director of

On the pristine fairways of the Jersey Shore, few holes challenge players like the iconic Par 5 at LBI National Golf & Resort. At 534 yards, this signature hole demands strategy, accuracy, and a touch of daring, the perfect combination for a true golf lover’s thrill.

The Challenge:

This long Par 5 plays with a slight fade off the tee and a lurking waste area down the left side. But the real decision comes on the second shot: Do you play it safe and set up your approach, or do you go for glory and take aim at the green?

For the Big Hitters:

If you’ve got distance and confidence, going for the green in two makes for an exciting, high-risk option. The peninsula-style green is well-guarded by both bunkers

and water — not for the faint of heart, but an unforgettable experience if you pull it off.

For the Strategist:

The smarter play for most golfers? Aim for a long, straight tee shot, then place your second shot in the sweet spot — 130 to 150 yards out. This allows for a more relaxed approach to the green, offering a strong chance to walk away with par (or better) without flirting with disaster.

Why We Love It:

This hole embodies the love/hate nature of golf. It’s a mental game, a physical test, and an irresistible challenge that keeps players coming back. Whether you’re chasing birdies or simply soaking up the scenery, it’s a highlight of every round at LBI National.

Golf, LBI National Golf & Resort

Photos by B.E MEDIA

A Shore Haven of Healing: Orchestrating a Life-Saving Performance at the Jersey Shore

The rhythmic crash of waves against the shore, the gentle sea breeze whispering through the dunes – the Jersey Shore offers a sanctuary of tranquility, a place where time seems to slow down. But life, as we know, can change in an instant.

At 74 years old, Gene Hayman makes sure to get 10,000 steps in every day. He plays with his four grandchildren at the beach and wrestles with them every chance he gets. But while on vacation in Long Beach Island in May 2024, a terrifying and potentially deadly instant arrived for Gene in the dead of night.

A familiar tightness in his chest escalated into a symphony of alarm bells within his body. He knew the feeling, a chilling echo of past heart-related surgeries. This time, however, the stakes felt higher.

His wife rushed him to the emergency room at Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center, where he met with Jasrai Gill, M.D., interventional cardiologist and chairman of medicine. “His electrocardiogram was concerning for a heart attack,” recalls Dr. Gill, “We knew that he had a bioprosthetic aortic valve and that the valve was leaking. We didn’t know whether it was leaking from within the valve leaflets or whether it was from around the valve.” Time was of the essence.

With Gene’s condition rapidly deteriorating and showing signs of heart failure, Dr. Gill made the swift decision to send him to the Armellino Family Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory at Southern Ocean Medical Center. A critical blockage in one of Gene’s bypasses was discovered, however, Dr. Gill placed a stent, restoring blood flow and his condition improved.

But the respite was short-lived. “Then I crashed, and I don’t remember anything else from that point on,” Gene recounts. While in the Intensive Care Unit, he began to experience shortness of breath, and Dr. Gill noticed the leak in his aortic valve worsened, triggering internal bleeding and a cascade of complications.

Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Dr. Gill initiated a life-saving transfer to Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, NJ, ranked as the #4 hospital in New Jersey by U.S. News & World Report and High Performing cardiology and heart & vascular surgery, and High Performing for in aortic valve surgery; chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD); heart attack; heart bypass surgery; and heart failure for 2024-2025.

Awaiting Gene’s arrival was Madhav Upadhyaya, M.D., an interventional cardiologist, who immediately consult-

ed with cardiothoracic surgeon Brook DeJene, M.D., The symphony of care was swelling, each specialist contributing their unique expertise to the intricate score.

“Overnight, his condition worsened,” Dr. Upadhyaya says. “His kidneys and liver began to fail, and he needed dialysis. We knew he needed a valve replacement that day, or he likely would not survive. When patients are rapidly declining like this, if you don’t act quickly, it could be too late, and you can’t save them.”

In the operating room, Drs. DeJene and Upadhyaya and a team of other cardiac professionals performed an emergent transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), a minimally invasive procedure that replaced Gene’s failing valve with a brand-new one in just over an hour.

Gene awoke to learn of his successful surgery, his wife relaying the palpable relief and celebration among the medical team. “Everybody was just so thrilled that it worked out the way it did,” he recalls, his voice filled with gratitude. Within days, Gene walked out of the hospital, a testament to the remarkable efficacy of the procedure and the dedication of his caregivers. He returned home, embracing a renewed commitment to

his health, continuing his commitment to walking 30 minutes a day, each step a celebration of life.

Gene’s story is a testament to exceptional care, seamless coordination between hospitals, the rapid mobilization of resources, and the unwavering dedication of medical professionals working in perfect harmony. “This case really highlights the capabilities of the Hackensack Meridian Health network,” Dr. Gill affirms, “and the capabilities of having multiple interventionalists come together from multiple hospitals.” In an effort to enhance its cardiovascular abilities, Southern Ocean has also expanded its cardiac services, offering emergency and elective angioplasty procedures, transforming the medical center into a comprehensive cardiac care facility.

This is the promise of coordinated care, a symphony of expertise orchestrated to deliver life-saving results. It’s a promise that resonates deeply within the tranquil beauty of the Jersey Shore, where life, like the ocean tides, can be both unpredictable and precious. And it’s a promise that Hackensack Meridian Health delivers, ensuring that even in the face of life’s most challenging storms, hope remains anchored, strong and unwavering. Learn more at HackensackMeridianHealth.org.

At Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center, we’ve elevated the quality of care and services. We aim to ensure your peace of mind with access to a comprehensive network of top hospitals, nationally recognized emergency centers, health and wellness centers, and urgent care centers. Should the unexpected arise, we’re here to provide the quality care you deserve. That’s how healthy happens.

Summer Trends

Written by Carolyn Mijal Photos by Ally Jordan

Five 0 Six Surf Boutique is the essential coastal lifestyle shop in LBI, with a second location in St. Augustine, Florida the possibilities are endless for curating a quality, thoughtful wardrobe with both unique and staple pieces. Both locations are open all year round and curated with exception finds for cozy fall nights, let Five 0 Six be your guide for all the magic and wonder this fall has to offer.

Sunshine Style: Summer 2025 Trends at Your Favorite Surf Boutique

If you’ve stepped foot in our boutique before, you already know we’ve always had a soft spot for that dreamy, beachy-boho vibe. Well, good news: Boho is officially back— although, let’s be honest, it never really left our racks. This summer, we’re diving headfirst into effortless layering, whimsical florals, and flowy silhouettes that let you chase the tide, sip something icy, and look amazing doing it.

Meet the Color of Summer: Butter Yellow

Say hello to summer’s new hero hue—butter yellow. Think warm sunbeams, soft light through linen curtains, and that glow you get after a day in the salt air. It’s flattering on every skin tone and brings a little pop of optimism to your wardrobe. You’ll find it splashed across breezy midi dresses, boho crop tops, and wide-legged flowy pants that make you feel like you’re floating.

But butter yellow’s not flying solo. This season is bringing back bright ocean blues, creamy whites, sandy taupes, and all your favorite classic neutrals. Whether you’re color-crushing or keeping it tonal, our summer lineup is all about fresh, breathable fabrics that feel as good as they look.

Fabrics That Breathe, Styles That Move

We’ve always been obsessed with natural fibers like 100% cotton and linen—because nothing beats that barely-there, airy feel when the weather heats up. Cotton gauze is still a staple for us: soft, light, and perfect for layering those loose boho fits. And this summer, we’re leaning in even harder.

From flowy pants that flutter with every breeze

to midi dresses covered in soft floral prints, we’ve curated even more options to channel your inner free spirit. Mix and match loose boho tops with neutral linen shorts, or throw on a tiered dress that takes you from beach day to bonfire.

Fashion with a Conscience

Sustainability isn’t just a trend—it’s part of how we do things. As a small business, we’re committed to offering pieces that are made better, feel better, and last longer. This season, we’ve partnered with even more brands that share our values. Because let’s face it—fashion can be wasteful. But it doesn’t have to be. We believe you can rock that trend-forward style without compromising on your values.

So come browse what’s new and what’s timeless— because our love for boho beauty and surfside style is forever. With more sustainable brands, more of the materials you love, and more dreamy, free-flowing looks than ever, summer 2025 is shaping up to be our favorite season yet.

See you at the shop— barefoot, sun-kissed, and butter yellow. Five 0 Six Boutique is located at 506 Long Beach Blvd in Surf City. Stop in and see all the treasures their boutique has to offer; you will not be disappointed.

BEAUTY BUZZ: Salty Air, Stunning Hair, Radiant Skin

Written By Lisa Simek, Contributing Columnist

Long Beach Island isn’t just a coastal paradise. This summer, it’s positively glowing with beauty brilliance thanks to a trio of powerhouse women who are bringing innovation, glam, and a whole lot of sunshine to our shores. From skincare handcrafted with Manhattan expertise to cult-favorite hair transformations and the most whimsical seashell accessories we’ve ever seen, these beauty finds are the ultimate way to upgrade your self-care game this season. Let’s dive into the summer’s hottest beauty buzz!

1. JuJubee Skincare: Luxe Wellness, Local Vibes

Discovered at the Surf City Farmers Market, JuJubee Skincare is the brainchild of NYC-based Clinical Esthetician Lindsey Villani, who brings over 15 years of experience working with top-tier luxury brands like Augustinus Bader, La Prairie, and Trish McEvoy. Her LBI pop-up combines natural, hand-curated skincare with results-driven facial services usually reserved for high-end NYC spas.

Her passion is to educate clients on choosing the right ingredients for their unique skin type, and which ingredients to avoid (which is equally as important). When she’s not researching the latest trends and hand-crafting natural serums and creams for farmers markets, you can find her in the treatment room at Jillian Wright Facials in Chelsea, NYC, offering clients a state-of-the-art skincare menu including a variety of modalities such as Microcurrent, Ultrasound Therapy, Nano-Needling, Oxygen Bubble w/LED Light Therapy, Lymphatic Drainage, Lifting Facial Massages and more. But here’s the summer scoop: she’s bringing these elite services directly to your beach house on LBI. Think: spa parties with friends, high-tech facials, and glowing skin—all without leaving your porch.

Bonus for the Sephora-obsessed teens (and their parents): JuJubee’s clean, small-batch formulations are made without harsh chemicals or synthetic fragrances—so you can build a real skincare routine that actually helps your skin instead of hurting it. Every product is safe for even the most sensitive skin, making it a perfect gateway into healthy skincare habits that don’t compromise the skin barrier.

Must-try products? My daughters and I are obsessed with the Certified Organic Glow Drops, a multi-tasking facial oil perfect for all skin types (yes, even acne-prone), and the Hair Bomb Scalp Treatment, which promotes hair growth by nourishing the scalp with natural, invigorating ingredients. No chemicals. No harsh fragrances. Just beautiful, healthy skin and hair—because what you put on your body gets absorbed into your body.

Find JuJubee every Monday from 8am–12pm at the Surf City Farmers Market (June 23–Aug 25).

For more info follow @JuJubeeSkincare on Instagram.

2. Moxie Salon & Beauty Bar: Get “Moxified” in Beach Haven

Hold onto your beach hats! The cult-favorite Moxie Salon & Beauty Bar is making waves with its brand-new LBI location in North Beach Haven (2807 Long Beach Blvd). Founded by the dynamic Moxie Twins, Jenn and Jamie Dunn, famous for their high-impact TV makeover segments on GMA and VH1, this salon is all about full-blown beauty transformations. The grand opening has locals buzzing—and for good reason.

Whether you’re in need of a fresh cut, a balayage refresh, a bridal glam squad, or the full “Moxified” experience (their signature, head-to-toe makeover), you’ll leave this salon feeling confident, camera-ready, and utterly stunning. Managing partner Jay Scott Jackson, the salon’s Director of Training and a regular contributor on The New Jersey Morning Show, brings his styling expertise and vibrant personality to LBI’s beauty scene in a big way.

Bonus: They also offer flawless spray tans and event makeup—ideal for wedding season or a glammed-up girls’ night.

Moxie’s motto says it all: “Walk in salty, walk out stunning.” #GetMoxified and follow them for updates @moxielongbeachislandnj on Instagram.

3. Brielle’s Shells: Mermaid Magic, Handmade with Love

When local surfer, lifeguard, and beach-loving entrepreneur Brielle wore a seashell in her hair one summer day, she had no idea she was launching an island-wide craze. Today, Brielle’s Shells is one of LBI’s most beloved beach-born brands, offering whimsical handmade seashell accessories and her signature Mermaid Hair Extensions—a must-have for every summer goddess.

Fueled by the encouragement of the LBI surfing and lifeguard community (and supported by local retailers like Firefly, How to Live, and Farias), Brielle is now taking a huge leap forward. This June, she’s opening her first-ever brick-and-mortar storefront at 285 W 8th Street in Ship Bottom. Visitors can shop, create custom mermaid hair extensions, and even join in on make-your-own accessory workshops and birthday parties. In the

back, her team of local “mermaids” will handle everything from packaging to social media, making it a true community-powered brand.

What started as a seashell moment has blossomed into a business built on sunshine, sisterhood, and salty sparkle. Dive into the mermaid life—you’ll never look back. Follow her on Instagram @Brielles_Shells or visit BriellesShells.com.

Whether you’re looking to revitalize your skincare routine, go full glam for beach weddings, or channel your inner mermaid, these fabulous local finds are here to make your summer glow from the inside out. Supporting these inspiring LBI women means feeling fabulous and keeping it local—and that’s always in style. This Summer, Choose Local. Choose Beautiful.

Until next time, stay glowing.

xo Lisa

THE LATEST ADVANCES IN BEAUTY & WELLNESS

Written by Jenna Cowperthwaite

Beauty By Bo continues to take the world of relaxation and rejuvenation by storm. Jeannie’s team offers medical grade aesthetic procedures in two different locations where both beauty and wellness are the foundation. This year they are excited to implement some of the latest advances in the industry with three new machines, ultimately enhancing the experience, as well as the results, of their patients.

THE TETRA PRO ADVANCED CO2 LASER

Their first new machine, the Tetra PRO Advanced CO2 Laser, was voted the “2024 New Beauty” award winner by The Beauty Authority. This miracle worker emits short pulses of light energy in a continuous stream with minimal heat to reveal younger, brighter skin. It is a method which allows the provider to remove the uppermost layer of skin with no thermal damage to the surrounding tissue, providing full facial resurfacing. The Tetra PRO is considered the absolute best laser skin resurfacing treatment in the industry, and the Beauty by Bo team is thrilled to be able to offer such a top-notch treatment to their patients. The machine also includes the breakthrough CoolPeel® treatment, designed to offer very minimal recovery time, unlike traditional CO2 laser treatments which typically require extensive downtime. Working with your provider, you can target texture, hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, enlarged pores and even excess oil production.

THE MOTUS

The original Motus machine was a technological breakthrough in offering completely painless laser hair removal treatments. But now, in a single session, this improved cutting-edge device, can also address pigment, vascular lesions, and skin revitalization. Patients can treat both face and body alike. The laser constricts blood vessels without harming surrounding tissue to visibly erase spider veins and other vascular imperfections, such as ro-

sacea. Treatments will improve skin tone and texture, reduce hyper-pigmentation and minimize fine lines.

THE SCARLET RF

For the first time, two incredibly successful dermal anti-aging therapies are combined in a revolutionary machine called the Scarlet RF, which essentially provides a face and neck lift without the surgery. Through radio-frequency microneedling technology, patients can target virtually any skin issue, ranging from skin laxity to tone and texture. The body responds to the gentle microneedling by stimulating the production of collagen, which is the skin’s main structural protein. This treatment will improve your skin’s overall firmness and tightening, shrink your pores, and even out pigment. You can treat the scalp, face, neck, chest, abdomen, arms, inner thighs, knees, and eyes. Beauty By Bo’s signature “Scarlet + CoolPeel Combo” provides a comprehensive solution for skin renewal by addressing both immediate and long-term results.

BREATHE IN THE BEACH

Little Bungalow’s Coastal-Inspired Home Fragrances

Written by Katherine Lioudis

Photos by Born by the Sea Photography

Walking into Little Bungalow, your first thought might be, “Wow, it smells really good in here.”

That’s no accident. It’s the constant, carefully curated aroma created by shop owner Alexandria Roth. The signature scent, Dusk, captures the essence of Long Beach Island, just like everything else in the shop.

From the aesthetic to the products, Alex handpicks each element to reflect the spirit of the island. “Being at the beach, we’re a block from the ocean. You just want that feeling to last all year,” she reflects. “When you cross the bridge, you take a deep breath and sigh out all that stress.”

With Alex’s thoughtfully crafted fragrances, you don’t have to leave that feeling in LBI, you can bring a piece of it into your home.

When she first opened Little Bungalow in 2017, Alex was inspired by generations of her family spending summers on the island and felt drawn to create a space of her own. With a background in fashion as a stylist and buyer, she brought her eye for design to Surf City, curating a shop that reflects the island she now calls home.

Heading into its ninth season, Little Bungalow has evolved into a lifestyle shop, offering clothing, accessories, home goods, and more, everything needed to complement the beach lifestyle. “It’s grown into something a little different from when I started, but the vision has expanded, which has been amazing to see,” Alex says.

Her vision for Little Bungalow has always been to create something that locals and visitors alike can carry with them even after they leave. This vision was the driving force behind creating a home fragrance collection. The first aroma, Dusk, was introduced in 2021 and quickly became a shop staple. Dusk, along with the other fragrances in the line, Golden Hour and Sun-Kissed (new this season), evokes different elements of the beach and summer.

Each fragrance in the collection is thoughtfully blended and deeply personal. The line includes soy wax blend candles, reed diffusers, and linen and room sprays, allowing you to choose how to bring that summer feeling into your home. The reed diffuser has a far-reaching throw, filling your space with fragrance, while the linen and room spray creates the sensation of slipping into a luxurious hotel bed.

Dusk is a light, airy, and universally appealing fragrance that blends coconut milk, amber, and vanilla, evoking the feeling of the perfect beach day. Warm

and comforting, yet fresh and uplifting, Dusk greets you as you walk through the doors of Little Bungalow, enveloping the space with its coastal warmth and welcoming energy.

Golden Hour, the second blend in the line, is more floral and exotic, with notes of jasmine, tiare flower, and bergamot. Inspired by the feeling of being on vacation on a tropical island, it’s exciting and exotic, capturing the essence of warm, golden evenings.

This season, Little Bungalow introduces Sun-Kissed, a vibrant, playful scent with fruity citrus and guava notes. It embodies the joyful energy of a sun-soaked day on the beach. The Sun-Kissed candle even features a wood wick, creating a gentle crackling sound as it burns, offering a multi-sensory experience of scent, sight, and sound.

The collection is exclusively created and sold for Little Bungalow, with each scent personally designed by Alex. The process of selecting the perfect blend is fun but overwhelming, as Alex tests various combinations to see what works. Once the scent selection is finalized, her design background comes into play, curating every detail of the product. “You design everything, from the type of glass vessel to the label.

Then, you get the end product to test. You can even burn it to see how it works before production begins,” she explains.

This meticulous attention to detail has paid off, with customers returning year after year to pick up another candle, grab a reed diffuser for a friend, or refresh their space with a light mist of the linen and room spray. The minimalist white vessels with neutral-toned cursive labels complement nearly any interior. In their simplicity, the packaging evokes the essence of the beach: effortless, serene, and timeless.

Customers who wish they could carry these scents all day long will be excited to know that Alex is exploring expanding the Little Bungalow line to include body care products in the future. She’s considering perfume, body lotions, and scrubs. Luxury items designed to make people feel good inside and out.

For now, though, the home fragrance collection stays true to what makes it special, something uniquely tied to Long Beach Island and Little Bungalow. It’s a way for people to bring a piece of the island home with them, an aroma they can’t find anywhere else, just like our slice of the shore.

Celebrating 100 Years!

Times have changed...the knowledge, integrity & professionalism have not.

A CENTURY OF LEGACY

Celebrating 100 Years of Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Zack

Written by Lisa Simek

Shore, Realtors

As we mark the 100th anniversary of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Zack Shore Realtors this summer of 2025, we celebrate not just a local business, but a cornerstone of Long Beach Island’s cultural history—a legacy woven into the very fabric of this vibrant coastal community.

Founded in 1925 by Richard A. Zachariae Jr., a German immigrant with a vision, this company laid the groundwork for what LBI has become today: a cherished residential island defined by its resilience, community spirit, and timeless charm. Mr. and Mrs. Zachariae were among the island’s earliest pioneers—visionaries who helped transform the island from a remote summer retreat into a thriving community. The story of “Zack Shore”—as it has been affectionately referred to for generations— is one of two families, the Zachariaes and the Thomases, whose local contributions, steadfast dedication, and innovative spirit have shaped the island for a century.

Richard A. Zachariae Jr. arrived in the United States before World War I, a 17-year-old man from Bad Blankenburg, Germany, with a thirst for opportunity. Zachariae first settled in New York City, where he attended night classes at Columbia University. In August of 1914, he met and married his sweetheart, and the couple relocated to Philadelphia, where he continued his studies at the Wharton School of Finance. Even in these early years, Zachariae demonstrated the drive and determination that would come to define his life. By the 1920s, vacationing in Ship Bottom with his wife and their growing family, he fell in love with the island’s raw beauty and made the bold decision to plant roots there by purchasing a $99 bayside summer cottage—a modest beginning for a man whose ambitions would soon transform LBI. Shortly after, he decided to move to LBI permanently and built his family a home on 7th Street on the ocean in Surf City.

In 1925, Richard founded Zachariae Realty, and just a year later, he opened his first real estate office in Ship Bottom. That original location later became Whalon’s Furniture Store, and today, Sugar Kingdom stands on the same site in Ship Bottom. It was a ground-breaking move at a time when LBI was little more than a sandy stretch of possibility. But Zachariae saw more than maritime forests, sandy dunes and marshy wetlands; he saw a community waiting to be built in paradise. His vision extended far beyond selling properties—he became a civic leader, serving as Surf City’s mayor for an unprecedented 38 consecutive years into the 1960s. He also presided over the Long Beach Island School Board, the Ocean County Board of Realtors, and co-founded

the LBI Board of Trade, tirelessly fostering the island’s growth.

Alongside LBI’s foremost real estate mogul and outdoorsman—he loved hunting, fishing, and was often referred to as an old salt—was his wife Tessie, a warm and spirited presence whose island hospitality became legendary. In a collection of the best “War Letters” published by Random House in 1960, Major James W. Snyder Jr., with the Tenth U.S. Air Force in India and China wrote a letter referring to the home of Mayor and Mrs. Zachariae, the comfort of their home with the fire place “…and a famous hot buttered rum out of your cellar… Whatever else you achieve in this world, the magic you hold over that concoction makes you worthy of awe and admiration…” The Zachariaes’ daughter, Dorothea “Zack” Zachariae Hanle, carried the family’s trailblazing torch, graduating from Barnegat High in 1930 and rising to prominence as a revered author and editor at Harper’s Bazaar and Bon Appétit. Dot’s eclectic flair— pistol practice on the beach, and authoring more than 65 how-to books including the cult classics “The Surfer’s Handbook” (1968) and “Cooking Wild Game” (1974) under her nickname “Zack Hanle”—added a dash of bohemian charm to the Zachariae family. She was even a James Beard Foundation Award inductee in 1994, along with Tim and Nina Zagat.

Meanwhile, the Thomas family entered the story through William P. Thomas, a World War II Purple Heart and Bronze Star veteran whose journey to LBI was born of resilience. Severely wounded in February 1945, Thomas spent years in hospitals, determined to recover

and reclaim his life. By 1947, he settled full-time in Cedar Run, just across the bridge from LBI, and launched William P. Thomas Builders. Specializing in building magnificent oceanfront homes on Long Beach Island, he shared an office with Zachariae Realty, forging a friendship that would unite their families and eventually their businesses. Mr. Zachariae became known to Thomas and his family as “Papa Zack,” even spending holidays and vacations with each other. Together, these two men—Zachariae with his leadership and Thomas with his entrepreneurial drive—laid the template for LBI’s residential identity, turning a summer retreat into a year-round community for generations to come.

William P. Thomas earned his real estate license in the 1950s, joining the family business alongside Frank P. Hanle, Richard Zachariae’s son-in-law. As the company prepared for a new chapter, the leadership baton passed to the next generation. In 1970, following Zachariae’s retirement to Florida, Thomas acquired his shares and entered into partnership with Hanle to help shape the company’s future. After Hanle’s passing in the early years of that decade, Thomas assumed full ownership and went on to guide the firm through a remarkable era of growth and transformation. Though the company ultimately came under the stewardship of the Thomas family, the legacy of Richard “Papa Zack” Zachariae has remained a guiding force. Widely regarded as the founding patriarch, Mr. Zachariae is remembered with deep respect and admiration for his vision, work ethic, and entrepreneurial spirit that laid the foundation for everything “Zack Shore” has become.

In 1994, the company joined Prudential Real Estate Affiliates as an independently owned and operated franchisee, embracing a new era of innovation and brand recognition. Four years later, Thomas’ son, Kevin—who had spent nearly two decades practicing law while supporting the family business behind the scenes—officially stepped into a leadership role as Vice President. The evolution continued in 2012, when Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway acquired Prudential’s real estate division. After thoughtfully observing the organization from the outside, Kevin made the strategic decision to affiliate with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. By December 2015, the company proudly rebranded as Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Zack Shore Realtors—a name that honors its century-long legacy while embracing the strength, reputation, and modern momentum of a world-renowned brand.

In addition to traditional real estate services and home sales, the company was also the first on the island to formally broker vacation rentals. That side of the business boomed in the latter part of the 20th century, when Zack

Shore became the go-to destination for summer vacation rentals on LBI—a tradition that proudly continues today. In fact, Zack Shore’s legacy isn’t just rooted in development and sales, but in the cherished summertime memories it helped create. For many, the name Zack Shore is synonymous with childhood—long beach days, backyard barbecues, and salty ocean breezes. Ask nearly anyone who spent their summers on LBI over the past few generations, and chances are they’ll recall the excitement of renting a beach house through Zack Shore. These rentals weren’t just transactions; they were the backdrop to family traditions, lifelong friendships, and unforgettable seasons. That emotional connection has become a hallmark of the brand—blending deep community ties with trusted expertise in both sales and rentals.

Today, the company thrives under the leadership of Kevin Thomas, and his daughter, Seton McKeon, the third and fourth generation to carry the torch. Kevin often reflects on its enduring success with a mix of pride and pragmatism. “We’ve been through every market you could imagine,” he says, referencing the stories passed down from earlier generations about the Roaring ’20s, the Great Depression and World War II, as well as recalling more recent events such as the gas crisis, recessions, Hurricane Sandy, and COVID-19 pandemic. “The key ingredient has been that we compete hard, but we don’t cut corners. When markets are good, we squirrel it away, because we know something else is coming.”

Over the years, Seton and Kevin have made thoughtful, strategic decisions that not only sustained the company through economic challenges, but positioned it to thrive in a changing market—something many agencies could not achieve. Thanks to their leadership, Zack Shore remains the top real estate company on the island, backed by a legacy of trust, adaptability, and deep community roots.

Seton, who is the Vice President and serves as Broker of Record, echoes this ethos of resilience and family. Starting in college, she weathered the 2008 housing crisis by closing Monmouth County offices to keep the company afloat. “We all wore as many hats as we could to keep things running,” she says. “It’s not just family— it’s everyone here. We’re selective with who we employ because this is a family business, and everyone here is part of that culture; everyone here is family.”

Her father, Kevin, also reflects on how much the real estate landscape has evolved over the generations. “It used to be that someone bought one house in their lifetime, then retired and downsized—or moved to Florida,” he shares. “Now, it’s common for people to

buy and sell several times throughout their lives, especially with younger generations embracing more fluid lifestyles.” Recognizing this shift, the company has evolved its customer service approach to meet the needs of today’s buyers and sellers. That adaptability has played a major role in their continued success—not only do they serve clients from every generation, but they often work with multiple generations within the same family. Many families return to Zack Shore time and time again, trusting them exclusively with their real estate needs.

Few stories capture the spirit of Zack Shore’s generational legacy quite like that of David Cowles, a veteran realtor whose career with the company spans over four decades. He fondly recalls making his very first sale with Zack Shore in November of 1981—for $40,000. Since then, he has spent the majority of his life helping to contribute to the firm’s success. Today, his son Michael Cowles works alongside him, continuing the family tradition. Michael speaks warmly of the mentorship he’s received—not only from his father, but also from the seasoned agents at Zack Shore, who welcomed him with the same generosity and guidance that defined their own careers. That spirit of continuity also lives in the story of Aileen Kidd, sister of William P. Thomas, who worked with the company for an extraordinary 48 years. Overseeing the LBI offices and eventually serving as Broker of Record, Aileen retired just last year—at the remarkable age of 90. It’s a legacy that echoes the early partnership between Richard Zachariae and William P. Thomas—mentorship transformed into kinship, where colleagues become family, and a business becomes a shared way of life.

What sets Zack Shore’s team of agents apart is their unparalleled connection to the community. With deep roots on Long Beach Island—many born and raised right on the island—their local insight goes far beyond what a map or listing can offer. As longtime employee Sarah Cataffo shares, “This has been a family-oriented business for as long as I can remember—passed down from generation to generation. That speaks volumes. We’re your mom-and-pop operation, yet

we offer all the tools and advantages of a global brand. It’s the best of both worlds.” That local expertise is more than a point of pride—it’s a powerful resource for clients. For instance, only someone with true insider knowledge would know that two homes on the same beach block in Barnegat Light, just streets apart, could offer dramatically different experiences due to dune formations and walking distance to the beach. This subtle, yet significant, insider knowledge is an example of what makes Zack Shore’s guidance so trusted—and so uniquely valuable.

Now, as Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Zack Shore, Realtors celebrates its centennial, its impact reaches far beyond real estate. Kevin and Seton uphold the founders’ community spirit through deep involvement in the fabric of Long Beach Island—giving back to the place that shaped the company’s legacy. Whether supporting local nonprofits like David’s Dream and Believe Foundation or showing up for causes like Waves of Strength, they offer not just resources, but

presence—reinforcing the island’s enduring sense of connection and care. “Family-owned, family-run for 100 years,” Kevin says—a guiding philosophy that lives on through a loyal team. Many of the employees who support Zack Shore’s agents behind the scenes have been with the company for an average of 20 years, a testament to the shared values, trust, and heart that continue to define the firm, generation after generation.

The company’s journey mirrors LBI’s own—from $99 cottages to multimillion-dollar homes, from Zachariae’s first office to a modern Causeway headquarters. It’s a story of perseverance; of two families whose vision and values turned a sandy shore into a thriving community. As Richard A. Zachariae Jr. once guided Surf City’s growth, and William P. Thomas built its homes, Kevin Thomas and Seton McKeon ensure that legacy endures—not just in brick and mortar, but in the heart of LBI itself. Here’s to 100 years, and to the next century of building dreams on this beloved island.

Contemporary Meets Coastal

josh ketcham

This must be the place

PLANNER | Bogath Weddings & Events

CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE | Parker Garage

PHOTOGRAPHER | Jess Palatucci Photography

PLANNER | Bogath Weddings & Events

RECEPTION VENUE | Parkers Garage & Oyster Saloon

PHOTOGRAPHER | Jess Palatucci Photography

FLORIST | Hey Sunshine Floral Design

PLANT RENTALS | Botanically Blurred

HAIR & MAKEUP | Judee Jo Beauty

BRIDE’S DRESS SHOP | FBM Bridal

GROOM’s ATTIRE | Formal Expressions Tuxedos

INVITATIONS | Crisp Designs on Paper

BLOCK PRINTING | Lauren Rothstein, Beach Block Prints

CAKE | Sweet Melissa Goodness | Boutique Bakery

MOBILE BAR | The Tipsy Bean Co.

CANDLE RENTALS | Detail + Design

RENTALS | Rustic Drift

TRUST YOUR JEWELER

By Jenna Cowperthwaite

As generations evolve and time marches on, couples are increasingly embracing treasured family heirlooms to mark their engagement. Some may use existing family stones and turn them into a necklace to wear close to their heart on their wedding day. Others may pass down their grandmother’s 1929 engagement ring to the next generation, while some folks may want to take a favorite antique brooch and transform it into a one-of-a-kind engagement ring. Chris Biele of Atlantic City Jewelry has a great wealth of knowledge and experience when it comes to working with older pieces of family history.

He explains that the very first step is to have an appraisal. Rules and regulations are constantly evolving, so it’s important to have someone knowledgeable, competent and objective who can determine an item’s worth. Oftentimes pieces of personal property increase in value as time goes on, and Chris stresses, “It’s critical to know exactly what you have.” With decades of experience, Chris understands the subtle distinctions of fine heirlooms, allowing him to accurately appraise fine watches, large diamonds and pieces of collectible artwork.

Due to nuances in the industry that only an expert can know, pieces that were once modestly priced can now hold astronomical value. Chris likes to help people take the overwhelm out of handling family heirlooms, recognizing that while most of us won’t know the specifics of our items, we can form a relationship with a trusted jeweler to guide us. “I have heard so many stories of people who scrap or melt an incredibly valuable piece of jewelry simply out of ignorance,” he explains. “While my customers feel the sentimental value of their pieces, my job is to also be cognizant of the monetary value.” The culmination of the appraisal process involves a highly detailed report for the insurance company.

Chris’ breadth of experience accounts for everything from Victorian pieces dating as far back as 1835 to art deco rings from the mid-1900s. Regardless of the item,

heirloom is often just as much a point of pride for the loved one who handed it down, honored to share a beloved piece with another generation. And with older cuts becoming popular again, many couples cherish these heirlooms as a modern day engagement ring. Old Mine Cut and Old European Cut diamonds, often cut by hand over a hundred years ago, have become one of the most sought after antiques. At Atlantic City Jewelry, Chris will ensure your heirloom diamond is sitting properly in its setting and carefully clean it up, promising another lifetime of enjoyment.

He also has a great deal of experience in taking bespoke jewelry and reworking it to accommodate the taste of its new owner. “Many embrace the romantic flair of traditional yellow gold or the vintage vibe of a particular family stone, but desire to have a few changes made to better reflect their personality,” explains Chris. “I had a woman bring me her mother’s ring, seeking to make a pendant necklace. The stone had a yellow tint to it, so she was completely unaware that it was actually a specialty diamond. I took the ring and crafted her a beautiful $40,000 diamond necklace from this precious heirloom.”

Knowing the intrinsic value of a piece, Chris can guide the new owner on how to rework it to suit their personal sensibilities while retaining the piece’s integrity. Since the founding of his family business, his goal has always been to form a foundation of trust with each customer, providing them all of the information about their family heirlooms. The important thing is fully understanding what you have—beyond just the sentimental story—before making any decisions about how to bring estate items into the future. Whether it’s an Edwardian era ring or a relic from World War II, Chris is devoted to guarding the mysteries unspoken from a bygone era and bringing them into the modern age.

One of the best parts of my job is getting to know some of the amazing wedding professionals that work in and around our community. I’d like to introduce all of you to one of the region’s newest wedding and event venues, The Evermore Manor. Located in West Creek, just south of Route 72, The Evermore Manor has quickly become one of the region’s hotspots for small intimate weddings. For this month’s Sweethearts and Saltwater, I had the pleasure of speaking with Michelle Santanello, who is the brainchild behind this beautiful venue.

I’ve known Michelle since 2015. She has been a fixture in the LBI wedding community as the owner of MDS Floral Design. Over the past few years, she expanded her business footprint and has dove into venue ownership. In 2021, Michelle purchased and transformed a local home and the 10-acres that surround it, into the Evermore Manor. It’s a stunning wedding venue focusing on small weddings and events for the past year. But that’s not where this story begins.

I asked Michelle how she discovered the property. She told me, “I used to go to the gym across the street. Leaving there I would see the peaks, you know, and be like, oh, my God, I love that house so much.” Michelle’s husband Bill owns a local HVAC company, and used to do work in the home. He came home from work one day and showed Michelle photos of the black and white floors in the foyer. Michelle, a self described “big fan” of Mackenzie Child, said the home’s bones “just clicked” with her. Alas, the timing wasn’t right. The home, abandoned and in foreclosure, was in such a state that the project didn’t align. The home remained this way until 2018, when it came up for sale again. Michell looked at the home as a possible home and floral workshop but, again the timing just didn’t work. Fast forward to 2020, when the home came up for sale once more after some significant improvements had been made. Michelle realized this time that the timing was right and instead of looking at the property as a floral workshop and home, she looked at it with the idea of turning it into a wedding venue and realized, “it was perfect.”

The Evermore Manor has been a labor of love. Michelle has had her hands on every inch of the home and property. She hand-sten-

ciled the interior walls, installed intricate hammered ceiling tiles in the ballroom, and has hand-crafted and curated most of the furniture herself; often doing the painting and upholstering! She has successfully designed the spaces and created a vision that has been resonating with couples looking for a small intimate wedding venue -- there are just not that many of them out there.

The Evermore Manor seems to have found a sweet-spot that needed to be filled in the region, that of a venue that specializes in smaller weddings with around 100 guests. The venue includes a ballroom and 5 bedrooms. It includes a beautiful bridal suite with a salon -- making it perfect for getting ready and allowing VIP guests to stay overnight. The Manor is perfect for couples looking for a private wedding at a venue that feels special and unique. As a wedding planner, I can attest to the fact that finding a space for smaller weddings presents a unique challenge and the Evermore Manor is a perfect solution for many couples looking for a gorgeous space to get married.You should check it out as soon as possible!

Xoxo, Jeanne

ann coen studio

photos by ann coen studio

Wedding Bliss

Nicole and Ryan

WEDDING PLANNER | BOGATH WEDDINGS & EVENTS

PHOTOGRAPHER | CAROLINE MORRIS PHOTOGRAPHY

VIDEOGRAPHER | VISUAL ROSE FILMS

CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE | BONNET ISLAND ESTATE

CATERING | MERRI-MAKERS CATERERS

BAR & BEVERAGE | NEPTUNE WINES & LIQUORS

ENTERTAINMENT | BE THE GOOD, DJ NICK CAVALERI

FLORALS | REYNOLDS GARDEN SHOP

HAIR | HAIR BY CORINNE

MAKEUP | A BEAUTY BY AMANDA

WEDDING DRESS DESIGNER | MONIQUE LHUILLIER

WEDDING DRESS SHOP | @MARKINGRAMATELIER

BRIDE’S SHOES | LOEFFLER RANDALL

BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES | REVELRY

GROOM’S ATTIRE | INDOCHINO

GROOMSMEN ATTIRE | @THE BLACK TUX

CRUMB CAKE & DONUTS | CRUST AND CRUMB

TRANSPORTATION | SHOOBOO SHUTTLE & TROLLEY CO.

INVITATIONS | MINTED

SIGNAGE | KARSON + CO.

MOBILE BAR | THE ROVING BAR

Photos by Caroline Morris Photography

Wedding Planner Bogath Weddings & Events

Why did you both choose Long Beach Island for your wedding location?

My maternal grandmother’s family has had the same house in Harvey Cedars, LBI since 1904. It’s my favorite place in the whole world, and where I have spent every summer since I was born. It was never a question of if I was going to get married on LBI! It’s the only place I truly feel relaxed and holds an enormous amount of sentimental value to me and my family.

Photo Credit: Jess Palatucci Photography

Ann Coen Photography

Ann Coen Photography

Joe Ticknow Photography

ELEVATE YOUR NEXT SPECIAL EVENT

By Jenna Cowperthwaite

With an emphasis on fresh, high-quality seafood, Tide Table Group devotes just as much attention to the setting in which their guests gather to enjoy the delicious fare. Among their family of restaurants, they curated comfortable, inspired atmospheres which serve to highlight the best of our local maritime culture. Whether searching for a venue to celebrate one of life’s cherished milestones with loved ones or simply a place to meet with friends to clink your glasses in honor of a summer evening together, each of the Tide Table restaurants—including two exciting new locales—offers something just right to elevate your next special event.

The Black Whale

Tucked off the boulevard in downtown Beach Haven, The Black Whale feels like a secret getaway. With warm wood accents and captivating local artwork adorning the walls, patrons receive the amenities and stylings of a timeless neighborhood tavern in conjunction with a higher level of culinary delights. It’s a place that innately fosters friendship and con-

nection. Open year round, they offer a few different options for hosting special events.

A beautiful private room upstairs accommodates up to forty guests any time of the year. Intimate evening lighting and cozy shiplap accent walls make it a picturesque backdrop for rehearsal dinners or milestone birthday parties. With plenty of windows and an oversized sliding glass door leading onto an outdoor balcony, guests are reminded of their coastal location with gorgeous sunset views towards the bay.

The Black Whale is also a “go-to” for off-season events. The warm, storied atmosphere is especially comforting during the long winter months and sets the perfect scene for many a holiday party. During this time of year, the venue opens both floors for private bookings of up to one hundred, offering a unique home-like feel as guests are free to mingle upstairs and down.

Photos by Photodelphia

Photos by Alyssa Mancini

Parker’s Garage

The Old Causeway

Proof that there is greatness on both sides of the bridge, The Old Causeway is a space brimming with spirit and whimsical accents, creating a welcoming, relaxed ambiance. With the perfect fusion of gritty maritime culture and delicious food, the venue is an ideal place to host a variety of special events.

The patio room with high-top tables offers seating for parties of twenty to forty people. A buffet format keeps the vibe casual for brunch, lunch, or dinner bookings. Another option at The Old Causeway is their extra-large high-top table able to fit a gathering of twenty. Off on its own, it creates a little oasis conducive to fully enjoying each other’s company. Their event coordinator will work with you prior to the event to create a custom, pre-fixe menu.

Folks can also choose to rent out half of the main dining room for up to thirty people, a small partition wall carving out a private space. Open year round, this venue is a great choice for Christmas parties, holiday corporate dinners and other winter events.

A cedar-shake gem nestled on the bay in Beach Haven, this venue runs the gamut, hosting everything from small luncheons to full scale weddings. Parker’s Garage is laid back, yet sophisticated, with a focus on seriously mouthwatering dishes. During the summer, they are available to book private brunches and luncheons of up to 180 people. Guests are invited to BYOB, though coolers, ice buckets, wine glasses and champagne flutes are provided by the venue. These seatings, perfect for baby showers, bridal showers and special birthday celebrations, include passed hors-d-oeuvres, buffet style entrees and dessert.

For dinners during peak season, a private dining room, added just last year, offers the chance to reserve a table for twenty-eight people. A gorgeous, live-edge custom wood table sets the foundation in this special nook. White subway tile, a brick accent wall, and plenty of windows bringing in salty breezes lend a simple elegance reminiscent of an old oyster saloon. A two-hour booking in the private dining room comes with a five-course meal served family style, including a raw bar, hot appetizers, salad, entree and dessert.

During the first three weeks of May, the last two weeks of September, and the entirety of October, Parker’s 2500 square foot open-air space is available for weddings. The venue holds anywhere from 125-180 guests and includes an option to perform the ceremony on site. Chef Kyle Baddorf has created a custom menu where the incredible flavors of local food shine and a full liquor package keeps everything easy for those hosting. A superb dance floor encourages party-goers to dance the night away, while the spectacular bayfront view beckons guests to linger for a sunset on the dock or a private conversation under the stars. Two sides of the restaurant can open completely for an immersive outdoor experience, but the entire area is fully covered and has both heat and air conditioning to accommodate any weather. And despite its waterfront location, the space itself isn’t overly coastal, lending itself to virtually every style wedding. With simple rustic touches of wood and a whitewashed brick wall, Parker’s is the perfect blank slate to bring to life anyone’s dream wedding.

Photos by Amanda Bonneau Photography

by LJ Hepp

Bird & Betty’s

Inspired by the youthful energy of long summer days full of fun music, good food and warm sunshine, Bird & Betty’s remains a mainstay for those looking to celebrate the spirit of the beach. A covered patio on the ground floor offers a lively venue for events ranging from twenty to one hundred people. Along with the bay views, guests are promised a vibrant atmosphere, cold drinks, and a curated menu. Food is served family style during fully private luncheon seatings, while dinnertime bookings require sixty-five guests or more for full privacy on the patio.

Bird & Betty’s also offers a private indoor balcony overlooking their nightclub. It’s a fun, slightly retro-inspired space, complete with couches for lounging. Able to accommodate events of up to two hundred people, this venue is often used for high school reunions, wedding welcome parties and large birthday bashes. The reservation includes a private bar, and buffet service.

With shag carpet and warm glowing lights, the exclusive Velvet Lounge, which includes nightclub entry through the VIP line, is a special space for the ultimate private party experience. Able to host a group of up to twenty people, a reservation in that area includes bottle service and a dedicated server, plus a great view of all the action.

Hollow Pines

One of two new additions to the Tide Table Group family is Hollow Pines, four duck pin bowling lanes set among a lounge and bar that can be utilized as a private space for up to fifty people. Nestled in the Pine Barrens just across the bay from Long Beach Island, it will offer three different event spaces, including some spectacular outdoor spaces. With an anticipated opening for the fall of this year, Hollow Pines is sure to be an incredible venue.

Opening in early summer, this exciting new collaboration between Chef Kyle Baddorf’s culinary creativity and the vision of longtime Tide Table name Billy Mehl manifests a fresh take on familiar flavors. Located in the heart of Beach Haven, the fine takeout joint offers islanders the opportunity to bring exceptional comfort food home for private parties. The concept for this restaurant brings together some of the best of Tide Table favorites—like Parker’s famous and elusive fried chicken, Mud City’s jumbo lump crab cakes, and The Old Causeway’s chopped salad—alongside bold new dishes crafted by Chef Kyle to lend an air of cozy opulence to your event.

Take-Home Catering

A few more of Tide Table Group’s local icons are pleased to provide catering trays to bring your favorite foods right into your own home for your next special event. Ship Bottom Shellfish and Mud City Crab House join Ellis’ in providing some of the most down-to-earth, genuinely delectable food around. Serving the freshest seafood simply yet creatively prepared to allow the flavors to shine, dining at these restaurants has become a cherished family tradition for so many. What a thrill to extend this simple pleasure to your at-home party! In addition to hosting on-site events, both The Old Causeway and The Black Whale also offer catering with the inclusion of a private in-home server.

Known for quality and attention to detail, every space hosted by the Tide Table Group promises your special event will be a day to remember. Their event coordinator will match you with the right venue for your needs, taking into consideration the number of people in your party, as well as the atmosphere you’re seeking. Whether you are planning a baby shower, a retirement party, or a wedding, learn more about their unique, coastal-inspired venues at tidetablegroup.com or by email at events@tidetablegroup.com.

Ellis’

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Born by the Sea Photogrpahy

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1/3 cup flour

1/2 tsp black pepper

2 eggs, beaten

3/4 cup Panko bread crumbs

1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

1 lb raw large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails attached

Vegetable spray

Cilantro, chopped for garnish

Limes, cut into wedges

Chili sauce for dipping shrimp

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 400°. Lightly coat a baking sheet with cooking spray.

Mix flour & pepper in one bowl. Beat the eggs in the another bowl. Mix panko and coconut in additional bowl.

Dip shrimp into the flour, then eggs, and then press the shrimp into the coconut mixture. Place coated shrimp on a plate, and repeat with the rest of the shrimp.

Move all shrimp onto pan and bake in the oven until shrimp is pink, and coconut is lightly browned, 15 to 20 minutes, flip shrimp halfway through. Place on serving platter and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Serve with chili sauce for dipping. Squeeze lime juice over shrimp.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 ounces vodka

3 oz. cranberry juice

1 1/2 oz. grapefruit juice, freshly squeezed Limes, cut into wheels for garnish

Ice

Directions: Mix the vodka, cranberry juice and grapefruit juice into a shaker and shake well. Pour into glasses filled with ice and garnish each drink with a lime wheel.

Summer Sea Breeze

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups white rice, rinsed and drained

1 cup fresh pineapple chunks

1 1/2 cups pineapple juice

1 (13.5 oz.) can unsweetened coconut milk

3 T sweetened coconut flakes

1 T Thai red curry paste

1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp ground ginger

1/2 tsp salt

Garnish:

2 T lime juice

1/2 cup roasted cashews

1/2 cup cilantro, chopped

Directions:

Mix pineapple juice and coconut milk together and add to large saucepan and bring to a simmer then add in all remaining ingredients except for garnish. Bring to a boil then cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for approximately 20 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes. Just before serving, stir in lime juice and top with cilantro and cashews.

Coconut Rice with Cashews & Pineapple

Ingredients:

1/2 lb. sushi grade tuna, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

1/4 cup sliced scallions

2 T reduced sodium soy sauce

1 tsp sesame oil

1/2 teaspoon sriracha

1 cup coconut rice, cooked

1 cup cucumbers, diced

1/2 avocado, sliced

2 scallions, sliced for garnish

1 tsp sesame seeds

Spicy Mayo

2 T light mayonnaise

2 tsp sriracha sauce

Directions:

In a medium bowl, combine tuna with scallions, soy sauce, sesame oil and sriracha. Mix and set aside. Build each bowl by adding 1/2 cup of rice, 1/2 the tuna, avocado slices, cucumbers and scallions. Sprinkle with sesame seeds. In a small bowl combine the mayo and sriracha and serve with tuna bowl.

Tuna Poke Bowl

Key Lime Tartlets

Ingredients:

2–3 packages frozen mini phyllo tart shells

1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk

1/2 cup fresh lime juice, plus zest from two limes

2 T powdered sugar

4 egg yolks

8–10 key limes, sliced & cut into quarters

Extra powdered sugar for dusting tartlets

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375°.

In a large bowl, whisk egg yolks until blended. Mix in sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, sugar, and lime zest. Whisk together until smooth. Spoon batter into mini tarts so they are filled. Bake for about 12 minutes, or until custard has set. Remove and let cool to room temperature. Dust with powdered sugar and top with limes and serve.

SALT Kitchen&Bar: Introducing Chef Tim

Written by Jenna Cowperthwaite

Tim Hamill, Executive Chef of Hotel LBI, seems to have been born with food running through his veins. Going into his second summer running the hotel’s primary restaurant, Salt Kitchen + Bar, as well as the other casual spots for eating and drinking throughout the premises, he continues to bring his signature creativity and experienced history to make it thrive.

While growing up, Tim worked closely alongside his parents in family restaurants. He has vivid memories of chopping onions all afternoon or watching his father working intensely at the table late into the night, spiral-bound notebooks documenting finances and projections sprawled across the table. All this to say the long hours and grueling pace inherent in the restaurant industry are of no surprise to Tim, who wholeheartedly embraces the life of an executive chef.

At eighteen years old Tim joined the military, but when his time of service finished, he was immediately drawn back to the restaurant. He will look you in the eye and tell you that he has never worked a day in his life, a testimony to how much he enjoys the path he’s chosen. The years of demanding, on-the-job training shaped him into a strong, yet compassionate chef. “I worked stupid hours, I’ve been burned and beaten,” he jokes. Working in several multi-unit operations over the years, Tim has dialed in the attention to detail and intense focus needed to flourish in the culinary world.

With his leadership and passion, he prioritized gathering a solid team in the kitchen, comprised of several chefs who have been with him for many years. He values their input when crafting menus and protocols, recognizing that “everything brings something valuable to the table. With mutual respect for all in the kitchen, the job is always done right,” explains Tim. “You can stay focused on the food. In fact, the kitchen is very quiet when we’re busy. It’s not like the reality tv shows, with people yelling and dishes clanking. I truly enjoy developing our chefs.”

What he loves most about his executive chef position at Hotel LBI is the creativity he can express through his food. Finding inspiration among a full spread of cuisines, Tim enjoys changing up the “Special” every night, but folks can generally expect a lot of seafood and steak features. Tim relies on the basics to keep his customers happy: hot food and a pretty plate. The hotel’s main dining room, Salt, offers an upscale, modern atmosphere driven by the best, freshest ingredients. Some of Chef Tim’s latest creations include fried whole red snapper over jasmine rice with a mango salsa finished with a Thai ginger-lemon-

Photos by Ann Coen Photography

grass sauce and a 14oz bone-in prime NY strip steak topped with jumbo lump blue crab and a cajun-spiced hollandaise served alongside fondant potatoes and sautéed baby spinach.

He devotes just as much care and attentiveness to the other three dining areas throughout the hotel campus. The main draw of The Rooftop remains the unparalleled sunset views, but Chef Tim makes sure the food offering packs a punch, as well. With handcrafted cocktails and unique casual bites, it promises an evening to remember. The Tide Pool Bar and Grill is the lounge area beside the hotel’s indoor pool. Featuring a fully retractable roof, Tim crafts a menu that reflects the upscale resort atmosphere, with delicious lunch items that do not skimp on flavor and always some goodies to please the kids. The Living Room offers a very cozy space to gather, taking the cue from its moniker. Breakfast, dinner, happy hour and dessert options are served in this oversized living room, complete with a fireplace, intimate lighting, and ample seating.

Contrary to popular belief, Tim’s responsibilities as executive chef extend far beyond crafting extraordinarily delicious food. He creates systems to help his kitchen flow smoothly, a crucial step in allowing the food to shine. He must also be accurate with his trending and forecasting to adequately manage his inventory.

His attention to every aspect of the operation is rooted in how grateful he is to be working at Hotel LBI. “It checks all the boxes for me…a great atmosphere and interesting clientele.” And Chef Tim’s satisfaction comes to life in the unparalleled food he crafts year round.

Ask Marvin, the Cheesemonger Mouse

Written by Jaime Ryan

At The Cheese Shoppe, we delight in helping our customers craft the perfect cheese experience—whether it’s for a grand soirée or a cozy night in for one. Our passion for cheese is matched only by our enthusiasm for pairing it with the right accompaniments. Recently, we received an inquiry from a fellow cheese enthusiast looking to elevate her cheese board.

Dear Marvin,

I love hosting dinner parties and want to create a unique and intriguing experience for my guests. I already use fig spreads and crackers, but I’m looking for other exciting accoutrements to accompany my cheese selection. What do you recommend?

Love your shop!

— Cheese Enthusiast

Dear Cheese Enthusiast,

Creating a memorable cheese board is such a joy, and we’re thrilled to help you expand your culinary canvas! Imagine your guests’ delight as they explore a variety of flavors and textures, each carefully chosen to complement the rich, creamy, sharp, and tangy notes of your cheeses.

Let’s start with the vibrant freshness of fruits. Grapes, apple slices, and pear slices offer a crisp contrast to cheeses like Brie and Camembert. Dried fruits—such as apricots, figs, and dates—bring a sweet, chewy texture that pairs beautifully with both soft and hard cheeses. The interplay of fresh and dried fruits adds a dynamic range of flavors.

Next, consider the satisfying crunch of nuts. Almonds, walnuts, and pecans are excellent choices. And don’t shy away from sweet variations like butter toffee pecans! Their nutty depth

complements everything from creamy goat cheese to aged Cheddar.

To make your board more substantial, add charcuterie. Cured meats such as prosciutto, salami, and spicy chorizo offer savory notes that balance the richness of the cheese. The combination of meats and cheeses creates a rich, satisfying tasting experience.

Honey, jams, and spreads are fantastic additions. Your fig spread is a classic! For a twist, try a chilifig spread to add a hint of spice. Explore other jams and jellies, like apricot or lingonberry, to introduce a sweet-tart contrast. A drizzle of honey pairs especially well with tangy blue cheeses and soft-ripened varieties.

Mustards bring a bold, tangy zing to your board. Dijon is always a winner, but whole grain mustard adds both flavor and texture with its subtle crunch.

For a tangy, briny kick, include pickles and olives. Cornichons, pickled onions, and olives (like our favorite Tangerine Chili Olives) add depth and balance to the creaminess of your cheeses.

Add a fragrant and visual touch with fresh herbs and edible flowers. Rosemary, thyme, and basil introduce herbal freshness, while edible flowers make your board a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

And finally, let’s not forget the breads and crackers! While crackers are a staple, a fresh-baked baguette can be a luxurious addition. Just imagine a ripe Brie spread over a warm baguette slice—heavenly!

Remember: the key to a great cheese board is variety and balance. Mix and match these accompaniments to find combinations that speak to your palate. Don’t be afraid to experiment—there are no wrong answers!

We love hearing from our cheese enthusiasts! Send your questions, ideas, or recommendations to Ask. Marvin@LBICheese.com, and we may include your letter in an upcoming issue of Bay Magazine. For quicker advice, stop by one of our two locations to chat with our friendly, cheese-loving team.

Stay MarvinCheesy, the Cheesemonger Mouse

The Cheese Shoppe has two LBI locations—in Surf City and Beach Haven

PERFECT PAIRINGS SUMMER WINE & CUISINE FROM RENAULT WINERY

By Brian Bobak, In-House Wine Expert & Chef Thomas Gagliardi, Executive Chef, Renault Winery

Summer on the Jersey Shore calls for fresh flavors, vibrant ingredients, and the perfect glass of wine to bring it all together. At Renault Winery, Executive Chef Thomas Gagliardi and wine expert Brian Bobak have curated a few of their favorite warm-weather pairings, all designed to delight the palate and elevate any outdoor dining experience.

Heirloom Tomatoes & Burrata Avocado, Oregano Gremolata, Garlic Croutons, Meritage-Balsamic Reduction

Wine Pairing: Renault Rosé

Our garden-fresh heirloom tomatoes and creamy handmade burrata are at the height of summer perfection. Balanced with rich avocado and a savory gremolata, the dish sings when paired with our crisp, slightly sweet rosé. Expect a beautiful nose of nasturtium flowers and pink grapefruit, followed by a refreshing palate of strawberry and clementine. This wine enhances the dish’s natural vibrancy while adding just the right note of acidity and juicy sweetness.

Heritage Chicken Breast

Buttermilk Compressed, Bacon Fat Fingerling Potato Confit, Summer Squash & Cauliflower, Roasted Chicken Fondue

Wine Pairing: Renault Chardonnay

Rich, comforting, and full of seasonal produce, this chicken entrée calls for a wine that can hold its own. Our chardonnay’s dry,

structured profile — with aromas of green apples, pears, and baked marzipan — contrasts beautifully with the creamy fondue sauce. On the palate, expect Bartlett pear and green tea notes that bring out the savory depth of the dish while keeping it balanced.

Blueberry Pie with Crème Fraiche Ice Cream

Dark Chocolate, Pistachio Cookie Crumbs

Wine Pairing: Renault Blueberry Champagne

Nothing says summer quite like blueberry season, and our indulgent dessert features a dense, luscious pie paired with tangy crème fraiche ice cream. Enter our signature Blueberry Champagne — a guest favorite. With aromatics reminiscent of blueberry muffins and brioche, its crisp tartness cuts through the richness of the dessert, finishing with a lightly sweet, creamy flourish that complements every decadent bite.

You can now find us all over the island with locations in Barnegat Light, Surf City, and Beach Haven!

The Legacy of Ship Bottom Shellfish

Written by Jenna Cowperthwaite

Some may call it destiny. Some may consider it a simple summation of life choices. Either way, the present state of Ship Bottom Shellfish and the accompanying family of restaurants has its roots in the relationship between two people: Bob and Ginna Nugent.

Having spent the first decade of her life visiting Long Beach Island during the summer, Ginna’s family made a permanent move from Philadelphia to LBI when she was ten years old. Her father, Marty Cassidy, spent a couple of years commuting back and forth before he decided to sell his Philadelphia-based business and embark on a whole new journey: that of a commercial fisherman in Barnegat Light. This was a period of LBI history when Viking Village was considered to be the “Tilefish Capital of the World,” and Marty sought to make fresh fish easily available to locals and visitors alike. In 1976, along with Ginna’s two younger brothers, the Cassidy family launched “Cassidy’s Fish Market,” bringing locally-caught fish and seafood directly to the community.

Bob Nugent was also a native of Philadelphia who grew up spending the summer months on Long Beach Island. As fate would have it, Bob’s parents purchased a home in Beach Haven Terrace in 1977 on the very same street as the Cassidy’s. The two families became quite friendly with one another, and Bob and Ginna spent an increasing amount of time together. He worked evenings as a bartender at the infamous Port Hole and clammed the bay during the day. Bob sold his catch at a market in Philadelphia, and soon began buying wholesale from

other local clammers to meet the demand.

1981 marks a turning point in which these parallel tracks auspiciously intersect. Ginna was attending college in California when Bob asked her to join him in opening a new seafood restaurant at the home of the former T-Cone Ice Cream Shop. As Ginna describes it, “I packed up my life and came back to LBI” and Ship Bottom Shellfish was born. Operating exclusively as a take-out restaurant in its inaugural year, the restaurant had a kitchen “so tiny it was laughable” and just a handful of picnic tables along the sidewalk. But the incredibly fresh seafood immediately cemented the restaurant as a mainstay in the Ship Bottom community. Two years after opening, Bob and Ginna added a dining room, and a couple years later they were married.

As the decades went on, their business and life together continued to evolve. The couple added a second floor to their establishment and eventually embraced a much-needed kitchen expansion. They added a covered porch to invite guests to comfortably enjoy their seafood among the salty ocean breezes. And they were simultaneously adding to their family, as well! Three children joined the Ship Bottom Shellfish family and worked alongside Ginna and Bob during their teenage years, learning the ins and outs of the family business. Their daughter, Shay, fully embraced this life during her high school and college years. After graduation, she pursued her dream job in New York City and is raising her family in Connecticut with her husband, Andrew. They prioritize plenty of trips back to LBI for the good food and family time. And just last year, the Nugent’s oldest

daughter, Bri, and youngest son, Dane, officially took over the business.

Bri remembers “involving [herself] in everything [she] could” in the Ship Bottom Shellfish world, already knowing at a young age that she wanted to have her own business. “I knew growing up that my parents had a very different life than most others,” says Bri. She and her siblings recognized the hard work and dedication required of their parents during the summer months., but that intensity was countered by cozy winters with a lot of family time, special experiences, and memorable travels together. This is an image for family life that Bri hopes to replicate with her husband and two young children, who already enjoy helping at the restaurant.

The siblings are thankful for the lessons they learned working with their parents. Over the years Bri did a little bit of everything, working the kitchen and the counter, hostessing and bartending, claiming “I worked the front of the house and the back of the house to make sure I knew what was going on.” While she loves the communication and interaction side of the industry, Dane thrives in the kitchen, developing recipes and keeping the line running smoothly. Together they make a great team to carry the legacy of Ship Bottom Shellfish forward. The duo is committed to never growing stagnant, continually adapting and changing to continually meet the needs of their customers just as their parents did. Though quick to admit that they have “big shoes to fill,” they are more than ready for the challenge.

“And they’ll never totally get rid of us” teases Ginna. “I still want to help them.” Despite actively working the line just two years ago, she and Bob are thrilled to pass the torch and watch their legacy blossom under the vigilant eye of their children. As an added bonus, they now get to enjoy more time with their grandchildren.

And of course, Ginna and Bob still remain active with the Tide Table Group, the restaurant group that emerged as the Nugents expanded their desire to share high quality, sustainably sourced seafood with their fellow islanders. Currently comprised of six restaurants just over the causeway bridge and dotted along the eighteen mile strip, they are set to open two more later this year. Through the decades Bob and Ginna joined with additional partners, including Eric and Melanie Magaziner and Bill and Linda Burris, working together to acquire new properties and launch restaurants dedicated to preserving the strong heritage of our area. While the atmosphere of each may be a bit different, there are a few constants at every Tide Table Group venue: you’ll be surrounded by good people and good food, just like the day Ship Bottom Shellfish first opened its doors over forty years ago. And all because two seafood lovers came together.

THE Nourished LIFE

Nicole Dragon is Bringing Wellness, Style, and Star Power to Long Beach Island’s Private Dining Scene

Written by Lisa Simek

There’s a certain kind of luxury that doesn’t just look good—it makes you feel good. For Nicole Dragon, the rising private chef and wellness tastemaker behind The Food Dragon, that philosophy extends far beyond the plate. Her health-forward menus, stylish presentation, and magnetic personality have earned her a devoted clientele across Long Beach Island—and nearly 30,000 Instagram followers who tune in daily for a delicious blend of culinary artistry, lifestyle inspiration, and behind-the-scenes charm.

At just 30, Dragon is fast becoming one of the most buzzed-about names on the Jersey Shore. She caters to a discerning audience of high-profile clients who want more than just a meal: they want nourishment, intention, and an experience. Her menus, rooted in Mediterranean and farm-to-table sensibilities, are free of refined sugar, inflammatory oils, or processed shortcuts. Instead, she sources locally whenever possible, using organic produce, premium ingredients, and nutrient-dense superfoods to create dishes that dazzle the eye and revitalize the body.

“My goal is always for people to feel deeply satisfied but never heavy,” she says. “You should feel vibrant after a meal—not like you need to lie down.”

Dragon’s culinary journey began early—well before most kids were tall enough to reach the counter. “I was probably three years old, constantly in the kitchen with my mom and grandma,” she recalls. “I didn’t watch car-

toons. I watched the Food Network. I had every show recorded—I was obsessed.”

A New Jersey native who spent every summer in Surf City, Dragon credits her athletic background—she was a Division I gymnast at the University of Maryland— with deepening her passion for clean eating and valuing the whole foods approach to cooking. But even as she pursued degrees in marketing and analytics, the creative pull of cooking never let go. “I was always the one bringing homemade meals to class,” she laughs.

After grad school, Dragon landed a remote corporate role in consulting. But in the background, she began developing her culinary brand, cooking for friends and family, sharing recipes on Instagram, and eventually landing her first official client on Long Beach Island. “I filmed the whole thing—ingredient sourcing, menu prep, plating—and posted it. It just blew up overnight,” she says. “It was surreal.”

What began as a creative side hustle quickly evolved into a full-blown personal brand. Nicole Dragon’s Instagram following skyrocketed with her Day in the Life of a Private Chef video series—an effortlessly stylish, behind-the-scenes look at her world. In each episode, fans are treated to a visual feast: Dragon donning whimsical, high-end outfits—like lemon-printed linens for citrus-forward menus or a bold tomato-embroidered cardigan for a garden-to-table harvest dinner (courtesy of Anthropologie and Sink R Swim)—each look thought-

Photos by Chelsea Kenny, Rosebud Photo

fully coordinated to match the day’s theme. She shops local markets at sunrise, gathers herbs from her organic backyard garden, and preps exquisite seasonal meals, all while exuding the kind of vibrant charm and attention to detail that make her as compelling a content creator as she is a chef.

The content is polished, but never pretentious—elegant yet inviting. That same balance defines her cooking. “I’m super organized and analytical, but also incredibly creative,” she says. “Designing menus for 25 different clients—each with different preferences and dietary needs— requires both sides of my brain.”

She runs nearly every aspect of the business herself, from menu planning and sourcing to client communication, brand partnerships, and content production. “It’s a ridiculous amount of work,” she admits. “But it never feels like work, because I love every second of it.”

Her clientele—ranging from distinguished public figures to discerning high-net-worth homeowners—reflects the caliber of her work and the exclusivity of her services, all of whom value the precision, creativity, and wellness-driven sophistication she brings to every meticulously curated meal. “They value the small things: the coconut or avocado oil instead of canola, the grain-free ingredients, the organic herbs clipped from my backyard garden. That’s the difference that matters.”

Earlier this year, Nicole Dragon furthered her culinary expertise through an intensive three-month Master of Italian Cuisine program at the renowned Italian Culinary Institute in Calabria. Under the mentorship of Master Chef John Nocita and leading European instructors, she completed over 350 hours of immersive training in haute cuisine, artisan pastry, gelato, breadmaking, charcuterie, and wine pairing (which she also chronicled on her Instagram account).

From mastering the art of regional Italian dishes and crafting elegant multi-course menus to earning her ICI Sommelier Certification, Dragon’s experience blended technical mastery with cultural depth—enhanced by excursions to Sicilian markets and fine-dining destinations. She graduated with top honors, receiving a Master’s Award, underscoring her credentials as a highly qualified private chef, delivering vibrant, seasonal dishes that captivate clients in Long Beach Island and beyond.

“One of the biggest lessons I learned was that the final dish is only as good as the raw ingredients. You can’t cover up poor quality,” she says. “The program also taught me how to be more efficient—how to execute five dishes at once and keep everything hot, plated, and perfect.”

That efficiency has already transformed her private events. “The first weekend I was back, I felt like a completely different chef,” she says. “Everything ran smoother. The timing was flawless.”

Though she’s not Italian by heritage, she was drawn to the cultural reverence Italians have for food. “There’s such a respect for ingredients, for the story behind the dish,” she says. “That really mirrors how I approach my own work.”

Dragon’s culinary credibility reached new heights when she was tapped as the chef and host of The Food Dragon, a limited-run streaming series on the lifestyle-driven HomeInspo Television Network. Filmed primarily on Long Beach Island, the six-episode series offered viewers a stylish, behind-the-scenes look at Dragon’s seasonal menus, entertaining tips, and the rhythm of her day-to-day life as a working chef. Though her time with the network has since concluded, the show helped solidify her status as a rising culinary personality and tastemaker to watch.

In addition to her on-screen presence, Dragon is frequently featured as a guest chef on local news segments across both the New York City and Philadelphia media markets, where she shares creative seasonal recipes and entertaining ideas—from inventive Thanksgiving leftover makeovers and crowd-pleasing Friendsgiving menus to festive holiday dishes and health-forward Super Bowl spreads. She also partners with Saks Fifth Avenue through their exclusive Saks Social Club, curating personalized culinary experiences for their clientele under the Saks x The Food Dragon brand. Whether on screen, in print, or in person, Nicole Dragon continues to blend style, substance, and flavor in every facet of her work.

This summer, Dragon is bringing that elevated storytelling to a wider audience through a new collaboration with Birdy’s Café in Harvey Cedars: Supper Club. Held monthly in an intimate, candlelit setting, each event features a five-course menu curated and cooked by Dragon herself.

Between courses, she emerges from the kitchen to share insights about the ingredients—where they were sourced, how they were prepared, and the inspiration behind each plate. “It’s about more than just eating,” she says. “It’s about connecting with your food and with each other.”

The dinners are capped at 40 seats to maintain intimacy, and each menu evolves with the season. “No two events are the same,” she notes. “It’s about celebrating what’s fresh and beautiful right now.” Tickets are available at thefooddragon.com/supperclub.

Though she splits her year between Surf City during the summer and San Diego during the winter, Dragon says her heart will always be in LBI. She’s currently exploring ways to expand her offerings here, including a café concept or premium meal delivery service. “A space where people can pick up fresh, healthy food for the week— beautiful meals that are good for your body and easy to enjoy,” she says.

Long-term, she envisions a space that blends retail, wellness, and community—a culinary hub where clients can dine, learn, and shop. “I want it to feel like an experience,” she says. “Not just a meal, but a lifestyle.”

Her culinary idols? “Ina Garten was my north star growing up. There are techniques and recipes I still use from her shows when I was nine years old,” she says. “But Julia Child? That’s who I’d cook for if I could cook for anyone. She was revolutionary—so ahead of her time, and always respectful of ingredients.”

And when she’s not creating haute cuisine? She’s likely enjoying her ultimate comfort food: “A really, really good meatball,” she smiles.

One bite at a time, Nicole Dragon is transforming the way people on LBI think about food—and proving that mindful, nourishing cuisine is the ultimate luxury.

For a glimpse into Nicole’s world—complete with behind-the-scenes videos, elegant meals, and her popular A Day in the Life of a Private Chef on LBI series—follow her on Instagram @thefooddragon. To explore her recipes, hosting tips, seasonal how-tos, or to inquire about private chef services and custom dining experiences, visit TheFoodDragon.com.

Saltwater SUPPER CLUB

Written by Lisa Simek Written by Alyssa Mancini

If you know, you know. And if you don’t—you’re about to. Hidden just off East Bay Avenue in Barnegat Township, where the tide rolls into Double Creek Marina and oyster cages bob gently in the shallows, the Barnegat Oyster Collective has teamed up with Haute Feast to quietly redefine what authentic, high-integrity coastal dining looks—and tastes— like. It’s not a restaurant, not really. It’s a working shellfish nursery turned open-air waterfront supper club, where Chef Pablo Toxqui and the team from Haute Feast serve fire-grilled seafood just steps from where it was harvested. Accessible by land or by boat, this tucked-away gem has fast become LBI’s most talked-about secret—and the hardest to keep.

At the heart of this new waterfront experience is a shared vision between two passionate teams: the Barnegat Oyster Collective, New Jersey’s leading force in sustainable shellfish aquaculture, and Haute Feast, a bespoke farm-to-table catering and event company founded by Chef Pablo Toxqui and Creative Director Carey Semprevivo, renowned for their immersive, elevated dining experiences rooted in seasonal sourcing and culinary storytelling. Together, they’ve created a setting where the food is not just locally sourced, it’s born of the very waters that surround us. Together, they’ve transformed a once-humble oyster nursery into a destination where briny bivalves and wood-fired local fare meet under open skies —and where guests are fully immersed in the

ecosystem that brings it all to life.

To understand how special this collaboration is, you have to understand the bay itself. A century ago, Barnegat Bay was rich with wild oysters. But by the late 1950s, overharvesting, pollution, and disease had decimated the population. It wasn’t until 2016, when Scott Lennox and Matt Gregg founded the Barnegat Oyster Collective, that things began to turn around.

Their mission was clear: revitalize New Jersey’s oyster industry through regenerative aquaculture. Today, BOC manages logistics, marketing, and distribution for 13 independent oyster farmers, growing over 10 million oysters a year. These aren’t just any oysters—they are hands down the best on the East Coast, grown in the salty, diverse tributaries of the bay. Some of the many local varieties include the Jersey Devils, Sugar Shacks, and Laughing Gulls— and, my personal favorites, Tuckers Island, Violet Sky Oysters & Hazy Tides—which are all prized by chefs and sommeliers for their unique flavor profiles and absolute freshness.

The impact is tangible: cleaner water—each adult oyster filters up to 50 gallons of bay water per day— revived habitats, and the return of a sustainable working waterfront that once defined life along the Barnegat Bay. One of the most dramatic signs of this resurgence is the comeback of eelgrass, a vital seagrass species once decimated by pollution. These underwater meadows not only provide critical food and shelter for marine life and nursery grounds for various fish species, but also play an essential role in carbon sequestration, nutrient cycling, water filtration, and sediment stabilization.

And the best way to experience all of this regeneration? Eat your way through it.

What truly sets the Barnegat Oyster Collective apart is its commitment to transparency and education. Guests don’t just enjoy fresh oysters; they meet the farmers, tour the nursery and docks, and witness firsthand how sustainable aquaculture works. It’s an immersive opportunity to understand what it really means to eat local, seasonal seafood while surrounded by the very waters and hands that produced it.

Now, for the first time, this summer marks the official debut of a full-season collaboration between the Barnegat Oyster Collective and Haute Feast, offering an immersive, chef-driven dining experience set against the stunning backdrop of BOC’s bayfront property. Although the two teams first joined forces for a

special event last September, this season brings their curated culinary vision to the shoreline in an ongoing celebration of coastal flavor. Renowned for their refined farm-to-table approach and unwavering commitment to local sourcing, Chef Toxqui and Semprevivo infuse every gathering with elegance, depth, and dynamic flavor. Toxqui helms the outdoor kitchen, an Argentine-style Asado grill where flames kiss every dish— from fire-roasted seafood to smoke-seared seasonal vegetables and even pasture-raised meats. The mantra is simple: everything is sourced locally and served within 48 hours of harvest.

“It’s primal and refined at the same time,” says Toxqui. “You’re tasting what the bay and land gave us that week, that very day, cooked right in front of you.”

Chef Toxqui’s menu is a living reflection of the tides, the seasons, and the day’s freshest harvests—curated with just-landed seafood from Viking Village to ingredients sourced from trusted regional farms. Crafted entirely in the open-air kitchen, almost every dish is kissed by flame and served with creative, often unexpected finesse.

The menu opens with the Sea Board, a stunning array of tinned fish, house-smoked oysters, farm-picked crudités, artisanal cheeses, pickled vegetables, and grilled sourdough—a true celebration of land and sea. From

the fire, dishes like roasted Laughing Gull oysters with spring butter, tender scallops with leek purée and herb salad, and a beautifully seared tuna plated with fennel caponata and lemon carrot velouté showcase the finesse and flame that have become Haute Feast hallmarks.

The raw bar experience, meanwhile, is anchored by the Mother Shucker Tower—a decadent display of twelve New Jersey oysters, oysters aguachile, littleneck clams, poached shrimp, fluke ceviche, and tuna sashimi. Daily offerings change with the tide, featuring local oysters such as Sugar Shack, Laughing Gull, Love, Violet Sky, Dune Fox, and Swan Point, each with its own distinct salinity and finish.

From the field, Chef Toxqui offers a hand-harvested farm salad of tender leaves, herbs, shaved vegetables, and edible blossoms, as well as dishes like roasted beets with citrus and beet goddess, and grilled asparagus with smoked turnip purée and crispy garlic. Even the “fancy toast”—a layered bite of mint pea hummus, pickled turnip, green garlic, and chive blossoms on grilled sourdough—embodies the garden-to-table ethos that defines the experience.

This season, the menu speaks a new culinary language—one of refinement, locality, and thoughtful storytelling—while still delivering the soulful, flame-crafted cooking that makes dining at the edge of the bay so

unforgettable. Chef’s wife and business partner, Carey Semprevivo, curates the experience with meticulous attention to detail—from the rustic-chic tablescapes to the pacing of each course. It’s a perfect marriage of back-bay grit and seaside elegance, where food is only part of the story.

The outdoor dining space is designed to feel as natural and uncontrived as the food itself. Long picnic tables stretch under string lights just steps from the bay, creating a relaxed, communal atmosphere that invites guests to linger. A casual oyster bar and retail counter serve up freshly shucked oysters, seafood to-go, and the day’s harvest, with three dock slips available on a first-come basis for guests arriving by boat. The indoor space is also evolving, with plans underway to potentially expand the retail experience due to the demand. The overall vibe is barefoot luxury: sea breezes, clinking glasses, and the steady hiss of an open flame setting the tone.

The spirit of this place was first sparked during the 2024 pilot season, when pilot events like Firepit Fridays—a relaxed, four-course waterfront dinner series—drew consistently sold-out crowds. Locals, boaters, and food lovers gathered around picnic tables to sip wine, slurp oysters, and watch the sun sink behind the marsh. The success of those early gatherings, along with standout pop-up events like the Fall Equinox dinner and an Oyster Appreciation & Sensory Workshop with renowned oyster sommelier Julie Qiu, revealed a real hunger for something deeper and more rooted in place. Now, in summer 2025, the Barnegat Oyster Collective’s bayfront headquarters has evolved into a full-scale destination: anchored by an Argentine Asado grill and flanked by a retail seafood market that’s equal parts clam shack and curated boutique. Guests can enjoy the day’s freshest catch, sip chilled local rosé—or bring their own—and take part in oyster shucking classes, guided nursery tours, and curated tastings that celebrate the nuanced flavors of local varieties. What began as a few seasonal pop-ups has grown into one of the most dynamic and sought-after culinary experiences on the Jersey Shore.

This isn’t just about oysters, it’s about reviving an entire ecosystem. And it’s happening without fanfare or flash, but with hands in the marsh, fire on the grill, and an unwavering respect for the bay. What truly sets this collaboration apart is the immersive sense of place. You’re not just dining on seafood; you’re surrounded by the very waters, tools, and people that make it possible. From the oyster grow-out cages bobbing in the shallows to the greenhouses nurturing baby oysters on shore, the work of the Barnegat Oyster Collective is on full display. Their mission goes far beyond the plate; this is as much about restoration and education as it is about incredible food.

“It’s about giving people a direct connection to the bay,” says Lennox. “They learn where their food comes from, and why it matters. And that changes everything.”

For Chef Toxqui, it’s the dream setup: “There’s nothing between us and the food. No middlemen. No warehouse. It’s just pure, local ingredients, cooked over fire, right where they were harvested. You can taste the difference. You can feel it.”

And for those lucky enough to secure a boat slip or a seat at a waterfront picnic table, it’s an invitation to take part in something rare—a deeply rooted experience that not only nourishes but gives back to the land it celebrates.

What the Barnegat Oyster Collective and Haute Feast have created is something truly rare: a dining experience that blends flavor, sustainability, and craftsmanship into a story worth tasting. It’s a place where the food is shaped by the tides, the chef cooks within view of the sea, and the oysters taste unmistakably of the waters they came from. For more information, follow along on Instagram @barnegatoyster or visit barnegatoyster.com to have fresh oysters delivered straight to your door. This isn’t just LBI’s best-kept secret anymore. It’s the future of dining on the Jersey coast. But go ahead—tell only your closest friends.

Welcome to the ultimate destination for fun with friends and family! Located just a few miles from the LBI, this one-of-a-kind destination offers everything you need to kick back and have some fun! From a jam packed Arcade to our laid-back Kitchen + Pub, The Mainland has something for everyone. Don’t forget to check out The Mainland seasonal pop-up bars for the trendiest go to spot for themed specials, drinks and photo-ops!

THEMAINLANDNJ.COM | @THEMAINLAND

photos by Ann Coen Photography

A LEGACY REIMAGINED

The Reopening of Mario’s Italian Market

Written by Katherine Lioudis Photos by Born by the Sea Photography

Since 1996, Mario’s Italian Market has been a beloved fixture on Long Beach Island, where locals and visitors alike come together for great food and to see familiar faces. To many, Mario’s is a part of their family traditions, beach day rituals, and memories that span generations.

In 2019, following the passing of founder Mario Aversa, his close friend John Musto relocated from Florida to keep Mario’s legacy alive. Determined to “save the ship from sinking,” John poured himself into the market ever since, driven by a vision to restore Mario’s in a way that honors its past. However, it wasn’t until 2025, when the opportunity arose for a new partnership, that he was able to fully act on that vision.

Marc and Virginia Zanone, owners of Dune18 and formerly of DaVinci’s, decided to join John in the endeavor. The timing felt right, and for them, this was more than a business decision. It was a way to honor their friend Mario and his enduring impact, and breathe new life into something special.

“Mario’s is a part of our family story,” Marc recalls. “We’ve been coming here for 26 years, since our kids

were born. Every Saturday, we’d park our car, grab sandwiches from Mario’s, and head to the beach. It was religious, every weekend. We both worked in the city, I was a contractor, Virginia was a designer and we couldn’t wait to leave Manhattan and get down to the Jersey Shore.”

This partnership was a natural fit, uniting them in a shared goal to restore Mario’s to its roots while keeping the authenticity and tradition alive. With Virginia’s eye for design, and Marc and John’s expertise in food, the result is a refreshed space that’s not only beautiful, but bursting with fresh ideas and classic Italian flavor.

At Mario’s, the team is deeply committed to quality, with a focus on using only the finest ingredients. Each menu item is the result of thoughtful research and intention. Marc brings fresh ideas from his foodie explorations, often inspired by the flavors of New York, while John ensures every detail meets the highest standard. The space is warm and welcoming, with a Tuscan feel, thanks to Virginia’s design.

Their focus is on offering something hot, fresh, and delicious every day. Alongside daily specials, the market

features a curated selection of specialty items, from craft iced teas and fine meats and cheeses to fresh baked bread. Every item is thoughtfully created, but the stars of the show are their sandwiches, baked goods, and classic Italian treats you won’t find elsewhere on the island. But don’t expect just your typical Italian fare. The staff at Mario’s is constantly dreaming up new ideas, taking the classics and giving them a fresh spin. Think Parmigiana crusted eggplant stacks, mascarpone stuffed zucchini flowers, and hot and cold heroes straight from the old DaVinci’s menu. They offer options for everyone, including gluten-free and kosher dishes to full service catering.

The foundation of their success lies in their family-like values. John, Virginia, and Marc have developed a strong bond, working together to leverage each other’s strengths. They believe in resilience, supporting one another through tough times and making decisions as a team. This sense of family is reflected in the inviting atmosphere that keeps people coming back. Mario was a big part of their family, and that influence continues today. Even one of their dedicated employees, Adrianna Cote, who has been with Mario’s for 21 years, is a testament to the lasting connections the market has built.

Virginia emphasizes that their goal was always to restore Mario’s as a place for the community. Mario’s is dedicated to catering to both the local crowd and visitors, offering quick, easy lunches for vacationers lounging on the beach and special deals for locals in the off-season who are looking for one-stop shopping with trusted ingredients.

As Marc puts it, “This place is now what it’s supposed to be, and what it’s going to be.” At the heart of their mission is the dedication to honoring Mario’s legacy. From the family photos behind the register to the Coca-Cola bottle cap opener passed down through generations, every detail reflects their commitment to preserving the traditions Mario built.

With a focus on community, high-quality food, and a welcoming atmosphere, the dedication of Virginia, Marc, John, and everyone connected to the market will ensure Mario’s continues to serve the Long Beach Island community for years to come. This commitment will allow future generations to experience the same joy and exceptional food that have kept customers coming back for nearly three decades.

A Taste of Togetherness

How Finest City Chefs Brings High-Quality Dining to Your Home

Written by Katherine Lioudis

For many families, cooking is a passion. For Ron Nugent and his, it’s a way of life, just as integral to their story as Long Beach Island itself.

After more than 35 years in the San Diego restaurant world, where Ron and his wife Pamela met, he felt the pull to return to his roots. Trained at La Varenne Ecole de Cuisine in Paris and Johnson & Wales in Rhode Island, Ron’s culinary education laid the groundwork for his thoughtful approach to food and service.

Despite the success of his California-based ventures, Ron knew it was time to step away from the traditional restaurant grind and try something new. That something became Finest City Chefs: a way to bring his passion for food, family, and connection into people’s homes through elevated catering and in-home chefs. Whether it’s an intimate dinner, a celebratory clambake, or longterm in-home cooking support, the FCC team works with you to create a custom menu, then handles the rest.

When Ron started Finest City Chefs, it was just him and Pamela serving the California coast. As word spread and demand grew, so did the business. It was during the pandemic, when restaurants shut down and people were rethinking how they dined, that things truly took off.

Two years later, Ron and Pamela returned to Long Beach Island, where they now spend half the year. They split their time between LBI, San Diego, and visits with family (cooking along the way). What began as a family venture quickly grew into a full-scale business. Ron leads sales and marketing, while Pamela runs operations. Their team of chefs are carefully selected for each role, with a focus on rising talent who bring fresh perspectives to the business and menus.

With deep roots to the island’s culinary scene, Ron is related to Bob and Ginna Nugent, of the Tide Table Group, LBI welcomed the couple back with open arms. The local community and businesses play a key role in helping spread the word about FCC’s services.

Today, Finest City Chefs serves clients in Southern California, the Jersey Shore, South Florida, and Nashville, bringing restaurant-quality dining into homes and vacation rentals for everything from intimate dinners to milestone celebrations. With plans to expand to all of New Jersey, the Philadelphia area, and South Carolina, FCC continues to grow, without ever losing its personal touch.

What sets Finest City Chefs apart is the care and inten-

tion behind every experience. From the moment you reach out, the process is personal. Clients work directly with Ron to craft their ideal menu, whether choosing from curated templates or building something entirely custom.

“We’re not here to show off,” Ron says. “We want people to walk away saying, ‘Wow, that was a great service.’ A little flair is fine, but we’re not about smoke and mirrors.”

Instead, the focus is on good, quality food, sourced from the best places possible. Think scallops from Viking Village, premium cuts from local butcher shops, and seasonal ingredients that speak for themselves.

FCC handles everything from shopping to plating and cleanup. In-home chefs are perfect for those looking for a more private setting, especially for families with dietary restrictions, since everything is prepared with complete control.

For vacationers or hosts planning a memorable night, Finest City Chefs is a great alternative to dining out. They cater to a variety of events, from family dinners to larger gatherings like rehearsal dinners or birthdays. Whether it’s a casual family-style feast or a plated multi-course experience, the FCC team adapts to the occasion.

Most events take place in homes or vacation rentals, especially on Long Beach Island, where stunning properties often come equipped with gourmet kitchens. The team also partners with venues like yacht clubs or clubhouses.

For Ron and his team, it’s all about creating a moment to remember. “It’s great to see the joy on people’s faces,” Ron shares. “No one’s going to stand up and applaud the restaurant owner, but when you’re in person, seeing joy from the birthday girl or grandma turning 80, that’s the real reward. It’s the personal touch.”

Whether it’s a round of applause or a quiet thank you, those moments remind the FCC team why they do what they do.

And what makes it all the more meaningful is that Ron gets to do what he loves in the place he loves. “Growing up on the island, always being around great seafood, family get-togethers, clam bakes, we’ve done them since we were kids. The food, the family, the fun, it’s been fantastic. I feel like not many people get to live the life I do, and it’s humbling. I’m just grateful.”

It’s the deep connection to the island and its culture that transforms every Finest City Chefs experience into something truly special.

ONE NIGHT ONLY SATURDAY JULY 12

INSIDE LBIF’S GALLERY

General Admission: 5:30pm - 7:00pm Blai + VIP Preview : 4:30pm

A one night art gala and fundraiser exhibiting work from the established artists participating in the island wide LBI ARTIST STUDIO TOUR

Participating Artists

Fred Ballet Photography

Kevin Coogan

Alice McEnerney Cook

James Cordasco

Joanne Dozor

Sally Evans

Joan Gantz

Susan Hennelly

Michael Golden

Sandra Kosinski

Anna Krain

John Meehan

Guna Mundheim

Carol Nussbaum

Anita Pfeil

Sue Pohanka

Linda Ramsay

Catherine Rush

Caroline Silvey

Linda Storione

Mary Tantillo

Eric Van der Vlugt

Elizabeth Ventura

John Vlahakis

Jane Zamost and more

Food Courtesy of Agnellos

Azzurri

Black Eyed Susans

The Cheese Shoppe

Country Kettle Fudge

Daymark

The Local Wally’s LBI and more

Music by

DJ Shino

Signature Cocktails

TICKETS

Thank you to our 2025 Sponsor

The LBI Artist Studio Tour is a free self guided tour of LBI Artists’s studios and galleries. Meet local artists at select venues on Long Beach Island. The LBIF will be hosting four Studio Tour Artists during the Tour weekend. SAVE THE DATE FOR THE LBI ARTIST STUDIO TOUR AUGUST 9 + 10 from 10:00am - 4:00pm

Rising with Resonance

The Soulful Arrival of Michaelina Petti

Written by Eileen Burke

At first glance, Michaelina Petti might seem like your typical purpose-driven, tech-savvy twenty-something, navigating early adulthood with a blend of ambition, self-awareness, and a desire for meaningful work. Give her a guitar, a pen, and an audience, and what emerges is a woman not just trying to find her place in the world, but an artist already in deep conversation with it.

Her debut album, Witherspoon Avenue, released on May 15, 2025, is more than a first offering. It’s an arrival long in the making, one that charts an inner landscape shaped by poetry, spiritual inquiry, and collaboration. A blend of indie soul, folk, and genre-fluid experimentation, the album carries the quiet confidence of someone who’s spent years listening before ever trying to sing. “I’ve been writing songs since I was about fifteen or sixteen,” Petti says, seated in a warmly lit corner of her home. “Back then I honestly didn’t think I was very good.”

That inner doubt, a familiar companion to many creative minds in their formative years, found early fuel in comparisons to industry giants. “I would look at

people like Billie Eilish or Adele and think, ‘I can’t write like that. I don’t sound like that.’”

Self-doubt eventually gave way to self-exploration. During the long, quiet stretches of the COVID-19 pandemic, something shifted. “That was when I really started playing more — with guitar, with vocals — and it became less about comparison and more about discovering my own voice.”

That voice, it turns out, was hiding in plain sight. Removed from the noise of comparison, she turned inward, picking up her guitar more often, experimenting with melody, and gradually finding the words she’d once kept hidden on paper. Journal entries became lyrics. Improvised phrasings turned into arrangements. The vulnerability she once saw as weakness became her greatest strength.

She wasn’t alone in this unfolding. Her father, Neal Petti, is a major creative force in her life. A seasoned musician and music teacher, Neal holds deep appreciation for theory and structure, practically an encyclopedic resource for composition.

“He kept saying, ‘We should write songs together.’ But I didn’t believe I was good enough. I wasn’t ready. My writing felt too private and personal to me, too raw.” Tentative resistance would ultimately grow into true collaboration and partnership. “Now, I don’t want to do it alone,” she says with a smile. “There’s a kind of magic that happens when two brains work together. Especially with someone who understands music so deeply.”

Working with a parent in such an emotionally intimate medium isn’t without its complexities, Michaelina says. But their process became intuitive: looping riffs, digging into archives of poetic fragments, and letting the music shape itself around instinct and trust.

“People romanticize it — a father and daughter making music together — but it’s definitely nuanced and layered. You’re still family. You still have those dynamics. It’s not always easy.”

Petti likens their bond to the creative partnership between Eilish and her brother Finneas. “You’re laughing one minute, frustrated the next, but always respecting the art. There’s something powerful in that.”

Family, in fact, plays an essential role in Michaelina’s artistic life. Her mother, Denise, also contributed to the album, offering a poem written during Michaelina’s childhood that became the lyrics for the track Someone. “I embraced that song even though it wasn’t mine because it became ours. We did something really special

with it. The lyrics are awesome,” she says with a smile. “I deeply relate to the message now. And also, why not bring my Mom into it? It made sense. It’s an honor.”

Themes of transformation, longing, and surrender run throughout Witherspoon Avenue. Tracks like Fly and Cactus Man confront existential questions and emotional armor. Embrace reflects on the futility of clinging to future promises, while Someone becomes a meditation on faith, whether in God, life, or supernatural unknowns.

Musically, the album is just as expansive. Drawing influence from the genre-defying approaches of artists like Jeff Buckley, Radiohead, Frank Ocean, Janis Joplin, Joni Mitchell and The Beatles, Michaelina resists labels. Blues-infused guitar work, ethereal vocal lines, and poetic lyricism all find space to breathe.

“I never want to be boxed into one sound,” she says. “Some of my favorite artists didn’t stick to one genre. Jeff Buckley’s album is a rollercoaster — it’s beautiful. I want that same freedom.”

She credits her upbringing for her eclectic taste. “There is always music playing in our house — everything from classic rock to experimental jazz. My dad’s record collection is insane,” she says. “When I was five, my favorite song was Into the Lens by Yes. I didn’t understand it, but I felt it.”

In fact, Michaelina’s creativity is rooted in feeling. She journals, both by hand and on video, sometimes recording long monologues that she later re-watches to offer herself advice. She calls it a tool for perspective, a way to zoom out and hear her life as if it belonged to someone else. It’s not therapy, exactly, but it’s therapeutic.

She doesn’t write songs to fit a mold. She lets the work emerge from the moment, often beginning with a guitar loop and a phrase from her phone’s running list of words and phrases that have struck her. She calls the file Words I Like, and it’s both archive and oracle.

The work also extends beyond the lyrical and musical into the visual realm, as Michaelina elected to paint all of her own art for the promotional singles as well as the album cover. The medium is acrylic and done by hand, adding to the deep thread of musical and creative connection.

For Michaelina, music and art are vessels for understanding, a way to touch something larger than

herself. Following a near-death experience at age fifteen, with a sudden and mysterious onset of Sepsis, her sense of spiritual and creative curiosity only deepened. She speaks of the experience not with drama but with awe.

“In that moment, I felt what it’s like to dissolve into something infinite. I learned from my yoga practice that it’s called satchidananda; the soul state that’s eternally wise, always blissful. I don’t have the answers. None of us do, but we can ask the questions. And maybe someone hears them and feels a little more understood.”

The experience didn’t make her arrogant. It made her curious. In fact, there’s no ego whatsoever in the way she speaks, no claims to having it all figured out.

“My creative expression isn’t about being an expert on death or suffering. It’s about offering what I feel I do know. That yes, we’re all here, we’re all alive, and that matters.”

That mindfulness rooted in the present is the heartbeat of Witherspoon Avenue. Every track feels lived-in, whether it was drawn from personal experience or conjured empathy. There’s meaning baked into every track on the album. Some songs might pull you in with the melody. Others might hit you with a lyric you’ve heard before, but never really heard.

Songs like Bleeding, Older, and 4D Lens invite listeners to step outside themselves, into the lives of others, into the wisdom of future selves, into the shared messiness of being human.

As Michaelina prepares to bring the album to live audiences all across the Northeast region with her father, Neal, brother Gianni on bass, and friend John Cancellieri on drums, there’s a quiet confidence about her. She knows this path is uncertain. She knows there are no guarantees. Yet she’s made peace with that. For her, success is measured in resonance. In reaching someone, somewhere, who hears her work and somehow has the ability to feel less alone.

“It’s all on michaelinapetti.com,” she says. And one gets the sense that she means more than just performance dates. She means the work, the heart, the art, the message. Because for Michaelina, Witherspoon Avenue isn’t just a debut, it’s a calling - a reminder that art made from presence, patience, and honesty doesn’t just reflect life. It reveals it.

LONG BEACH ISLAND FOUNDATION OF THE ARTS AND SCIENCES 2025 ANNUAL SEASHORE HOUSE TOUR

Monumental Ripples for Our Community

Written by Jenna Cowperthwaite

The Long Beach Township Field Station continues to be an integral component of our community—as a gathering place, a center for citizen-scientist learning, and a mecca where valuable research is conducted. Heading into its fifth season, Mayor Joe Mancini is “thrilled to see how [his] original vision of a ‘Shell Shack’ designed for local communal engagement and research has evolved.”

Inspired by this foundational vision of creating a hub for the broader community, the main floor of the field station was designed to be a fresh, open space that can accommodate a range of events. The spacious central room, with ample windows overlooking the pristine maritime environment, makes a perfect venue for special events and corporate retreats. This year the Field Station is honored to kick off the season by hosting the New Jersey Marine Eduction Association’s “Teach at the Beach” conference.

In addition to hosting, The Field Station also arranges a wide variety of their own programming for residents and visitors to enjoy throughout the summer. Their mission of being a hands-on, experiential learning facility is

echoed throughout all of the lectures and programs they offer. “We plan to make a few changes to our format and schedule this year in order to better serve the community,” informs Field Station Manager and LBT Sustainability Director, Angela Andersen. But don’t worry—their infamous “Terrapin Tuesdays” will remain! Also, due to popular demand BYO Kayak is coming back this summer on Wednesday mornings, and the garden club will again create beautiful native habitat with their raised beds around the facility. New this year, the Field Station will host an afternoon camp for kids a couple days a week. Be sure to check their website to register for events that will continue to be added throughout the summer, including jewelry-making, art programs and story times. They have made it easy to keep track of your registered events by sending automated reminders. As there is often a waiting list, Angela encourages participants to cancel their RSVP if they can no longer attend. “We strive to keep our programs as available as possible.”

In that same vein, the research conducted within and around the Field Station offers information pertinent to the entire community. As Angela explains, “A driving force for us is to continually foster a better understanding of how various issues within our local ecosystem actually affect the lives and homes of our residents and visitors. Our displays and programs make it easy to break down cause and effect. And it’s empowering that there really is so much we can each do to help protect and strengthen our island and the waters around it.”

One of the most exciting examples of this transformative research is the ongoing shell recycling program. A

blend of both engineering and art, their breakthrough pilot project at Clam Cove has caught the interest of beach towns up and down the coast. They have recently secured the necessary permits and are thrilled that the restoration project will soon be underway. More information can be found on the Field Station’s website, along with a list of restaurants to dine at this summer who actively participate in the shell recycling program. And be sure to tune in to the Fall issue of Bay Magazine for a deep dive on how this innovative program continues to evolve.

“The lab is the heart and soul of the place,” Angela elaborates, and they continually seek ways to bring in more data to learn how strengthening the oyster reefs and rethinking how docks, street ends and drainage pipes are used can help the entire island with flooding. An ongoing crowd-pleaser has been the real-time data and imaging offered through an on-site tide gauge, weather station and livestream camera. In fact, the camera offers such a unique vantage point, it was actually struck by lightening not long ago and just recently replaced. But it continues to offer unparalleled views of storms coming across the bay, and of course the beauty of the fiery orange sun as it sinks beyond the water each evening.

The Field Station is proud to stand as a symbol of the pillars of sustainability needed to allow our island to continue to thrive. They bring together the people, experiential learning and continued research in a trifecta bearing monumental ripples for our community. With so many exciting things happening, be sure to sign up on their website to receive their newsletter and follow them on social to stay up to date!

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DISCOVERING the Past

Written by Lisa Simek

For those who cherish the history and culture of New Jersey’s maritime communities, the Long Beach Island Historical Museum in Beach Haven offers an unparalleled glimpse into the island’s past. This charming museum, housed in a beautifully preserved 1882 church, stands as a testament to the rich heritage of Long Beach Island and its evolution from a fishing and hunting haven to a beloved resort destination. As John Fee, the museum’s media and communications secretary, eloquently states, “I remember when...” is the number one phrase heard upon entering the museum, reflecting the deep connection visitors feel to the island’s storied past.

As the Long Beach Island Historical Association celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, and with the museum’s own 50th milestone approaching in 2026, the momentum is only building. Over the next 18 months, there will be a series of events that celebrate the LBIHA and Museum golden anniversary with a continued passion for preserving the island’s history. With its focus on innovation, inclusivity, and storytelling, the LBI Histor-

ical Museum is entering a new era—one that honors the past while actively building the future.

The museum opened its doors in 1976. The museum’s inception was driven by a desire to preserve the entire island’s history, not just that of Beach Haven or the iconic Barnegat Lighthouse. The museum’s collection is vast and varied, boasting over 5,000 artifacts and documents, with some items dating back to 400 AD. The building itself, the former Holy Innocents Church, constructed with funds from the Parry family—one of LBI’s founding families—stands as the museum’s largest artifact. Visitors can sit in the original pews, adding a tangible connection to the island’s early days.

“One of the unique aspects of our museum is its commitment to covering the entire length of the island and all its towns,” Dr. Denise Cleveland, the LBIHA President explains. This inclusive approach sets the LBI Historical Museum apart, offering a comprehensive narrative that spans the island’s diverse history.

Photos by Born by the Sea Photography

The museum’s permanent exhibits cover a wide array of themes, from maritime stories and the history of local hotels to the fishing and whaling industries that once thrived on the island. Among the standout displays is a canoe from the Lenape Indians, carbon-dated to 400 AD, originally uncovered in Beach Haven. This interactive exhibit offers insights into the lives of the island’s earliest inhabitants.

The museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibits that change regularly, keeping the experience fresh and engaging for repeat visitors. Listen to the “Island Voices” project, which launched in July 2024. This oral history initiative captures the stories of some of LBI’s longest-living residents, preserving their memories and experiences for future generations. The project kicks off with three 15–20-minute videos, with more to follow throughout the summer.

Now featured on the museum’s website (https://www. lbihistoricalmuseum.org/island-voices), the “Island Voices” initiative is also being expanded through the digitization of hundreds of audiotapes—some recorded as far back as the 1970s and continuing through the 2000s. These oral histories, collected from local residents and prominent historians, will soon be available to the public as part of a new multi-media exhibit experience, marrying storytelling with interactive engagement.

The museum is also undertaking an ambitious multiyear initiative of digital archival, a cutting-edge digitization project modeled after a Smithsonian-founded framework. This program is designed to modernize how museums record, categorize, and present exhibits, both online and in person. With more than 5,000 artifacts in its collection, the process—undertaken solely by a dedicated team of volunteers—is expected to take three to five years to complete. It’s an enormous undertaking but one that positions the museum for a tech-savvy future.

Dr. Denise Cleveland, ever forward-thinking and passionate about bringing the museum into the modern age, emphasizes the importance of engaging the next generation. She proudly brings on interns and college students with a passion for storytelling and an intellectual curiosity for history, entrusting them with meaningful roles that drive the museum’s digital transformation. “Nothing is more important than building the future,” Cleveland says. “I love giving young people the opportunity to succeed and supporting them as they help bring the museum into a new era.”

Fee also points to the power of community engagement, particularly through social media. While the popular Facebook group “Remember When Long Beach Island (LBI)...” is not officially affiliated with the museum, Fee deeply admires its role in fostering community dialogue and nostalgia. He envisions the LBI Historical Museum becoming a similarly vibrant hub for conversation and intergenerational knowledge-sharing, particularly through digital initiatives like Island Voices and social outreach.

For those seeking a more interactive experience, the museum offers guided Walking Tours, every Tuesday and Friday mornings, through Beach Haven’s historic district. These tours, led by knowledgeable guides, cover two square miles of nationally registered historic sites, including the Gables, the Seven Sisters founding homes, and Kapler’s Pharmacy—all on the national register as historic landmarks.

The museum’s calendar is packed with events that appeal to all ages. This summer, every Monday morning kicks off with the Kids Summer S.T.E.A.M. Pro-

gram, an engaging hands-on series for children ages 5 to 13 that teaches skills like building boats, designing maps, creating musical instruments, and understanding survival through anchoring, mooring, and adaptation challenges. Then, on Monday evenings at 7 p.m., the museum hosts Monday Night Talks, featuring weekly guest speakers ranging from university professors to local historians, who delve into fascinating topics like Prohibition on LBI, the War of 1812, Colonial-era life, the history of surfing, art history, and even Jersey Devil lore. Wednesday evening ghost tours explore the island’s spookier side to festive celebrations and educational programs; there’s always something intriguing happening at the museum.

On June 21 & 22, the beloved Annual Trash & Treasures Sale returns from 12:00 to 4:00 PM each day—offering everything from gently used kitchenware and small furniture to vintage curiosities, games, toys, and books, all at prices sure to thrill treasure hunters.

A new addition to this Summer’s event line-up will be Porch Socials, family-friendly parties on the beautiful, and period accurate porch that harken back to the early

days of the museum. There will be two Porch Socials –July 7 and August 18.

A sweet summer favorite, the 48th Annual Chocolate Fair, will take place on Thursday, August 7 in Beach Haven. This decadent event promises a feast for the senses, with chocolate treats for all ages—including a 21+ section offering indulgent boozy confections.

Celebrate the Season which is held on Small Business Saturday in November, a community-wide gathering that unites locals and visitors for a day of holiday cheer, a multitude of activities for kids and shared heritage.

The LBI Historical Museum is not just a place to look back; it actively engages with the local community and visitors through a range of educational programs and special events. “We aim to create a relevant and modern experience for our visitors,” Fee emphasizes. Interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations are in the works to enhance the visitor experience, making history come alive in new and exciting ways.

Dr. Denise Cleveland, LBIHA President and the museum’s dedicated board of trustees, many of whom have been involved for over 20 years—including Ron Marr, who held the title of president for 10 years and remains an officer as past-president—work tirelessly to preserve LBI’s heritage. Future plans include updating exhibits to create a more interactive and engaging experience for

visitors, ensuring that the museum remains a vital part of the community for years to come.

Supporting the LBI Historical Museum is a way to give back to a nonprofit organization that relies on donations, memberships and corporate sponsors to continue its important work. Whether through volunteering, attending events, or making a financial contribution, there are many ways to get involved and support the museum’s mission.

As you wander through the museum, you’ll find treasures like a three-ring binder filled with first-person accounts of historic storms on the island, handwritten and typed letters that bring the past to life in a deeply personal way. “We capture the stories of people,” Fee says. “It’s incredibly human, and a different experience than looking at whale bones and shipwrecks.”

Be sure to follow the museum on Facebook and Instagram @lbihistoricalmuseum for updates and behind-thescenes glimpses throughout the summer season, and visit their website at lbihistoricalmuseum.org for event details, exhibit information, and more.

Plan your visit today and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of LBI’s history. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for this beloved island and its vibrant heritage.

THE ULTIMATE DESTINATION FOR FUN

Written by Jenna Cowperthwaite

The Mainland has upped the ante in their arcade, yet again. Extending their gaming area to a second floor, they now offer over one hundred games catering to a variety of interests and levels. And to complete the affair, they have created a whole new prize redemption room, making your play time even more thrilling.

The Mainland intentionally crafted their property to offer an entire experience, giving families a one-stop-shop to make memories. A summer afternoon can begin with lunch at their restaurant, The Mainland Kitchen + Pub. Chef Kristopher Greene has put together a menu where simple pub classics steal the show, enhanced with exceptional flavor through ultra fresh ingredients and innovative culinary twists. Once finished eating, the adults can bring a beverage from the bar across the sidewalk to the outdoor fire pit and enjoy an evening in the fresh air beneath the emerging stars while the kids play arcade games or ride go-karts. The Mainland has made it easy to create a seamless experience throughout their campus by using reloadable cards, which do everything from offer game time in the arcade to a beer at the bar.

And their expanded arcade is sure to keep adults and children alike actively engaged for the better part of the evening. Throughout the two levels, patrons can enjoy

a wide assortment of activities, ranging from redemption games to video games and claw machines. Younger children have plenty of options which focus on a healthy mix of luck and determination, while more skill-based games keep older children captivated for longer periods. Classic games, like Pac-man, are true crowd pleasers, but avid gamers will be equally enthralled with the newest high-tech games in the market.

The Mainland was equally as thoughtful of the general atmosphere in the arcade, including ample natural light to lend an open, airy feel, while ambient lighting and music generate a fun environment, getting everyone in the spirit. All players will leave with a token of their day together from the new Redemption Prize Room, which offers everything from small nostalgic novelties all the way up to a PlayStation5.

Open seven days a week and just a few miles from the beach, The Mainland Arcade can save the day when a beach excursion is rained out. As the ultimate destination for fun with family and friends, it’s not just for kids, but anyone seeking the thrill of an escape from the ordinary.

Riding the Wave for 30 Years

Written by Lisa Simek

by Gianna Schiattarella Photography

On any given summer morning, you’ll spot a familiar sight on Long Beach Island: a pack of sandy-footed kids dashing toward the water, surfboards tucked under arms, wide grins glowing with anticipation. For many, this isn’t just summer fun—it’s a rite of passage. And for the past 30 years, that moment has been made possible by Jeff Santoloci, the founder of LBI Surfing, the island’s original surf school and a cornerstone of its beach culture.

Growing up in Loveladies in the 1980s, Santoloci was an island kid through and through, spending endless hours in the ocean long before soft-top boards lined the dunes. He learned the sport the hard way—through trial and

error, sheer determination, and countless time in the water. His first boards came from local legend Skip Miller’s Y-Knot Surf Shop in Surf City, where he also found early mentorship. “There was no such thing as a surf school,” Jeff recalls. “We just put in the time because we loved it. It was a lifestyle, not a sport.” By the mid-1990s, long before surfing gained East Coast popularity, Jeff had already started giving informal lessons while working at a local surf shop. Establishing a reputation early on for his deep understanding of board shapes and wave conditions, he became the go-to expert for helping surfers find the perfect match. “I was just a kid working in a surf shop, explaining boards to people,” he says. “Then someone asked if I gave lessons, and that’s how it all began.”

What started as casual instruction soon grew into a full-blown business. After becoming CPR and first aid certified and collecting a few extra boards, Jeff began teaching more frequently. Word spread quickly. By 1996, demand had grown enough to warrant something official. LBI Surfing was born—New Jersey’s first official surf school, built on Jeff’s mission to offer personalized instruction rooted in safety, skill-building, and fun.

After many summers brimming with surf lessons and college semesters during the off-season, Jeff found himself at a pivotal crossroads once he earned his business degree. A lucrative corporate job offer was on the table—promising stability but a lifetime stuck behind a desk. Yet, the ocean’s call was impossible to ignore. Choosing passion over convention, Jeff decided to complete a Master’s in Teaching at Monmouth University—bringing a deeper level of care and professionalism to his surf school, and establishing himself not just as an instructor, but as a dedicated educator who truly understands how to connect with and inspire his students. This commitment helped him turn LBI Surfing into a viable livelihood, successful business and a lifelong career built on genuine love for the ocean and teaching.

And grow it did. What began as one guy and a few boards is now a full-scale surf school with retail locations, rental services, and camps that serve thousands each season. In 2006, Jeff opened LBI Surfing’s first shop in Beach Haven—a central hub where students could check in, rent gear, or grab a new board. A decade later, he fulfilled a dream of opening a second shop in Surf City, just blocks from where he bought his first board. “We want to preserve the essence of LBI as a family destination,” Jeff explains. “Having places for kids and families to connect is vital.”

How LBI Surfing Became the Beating Heart of Long Beach Island’s Surf Culture

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The Surf City location was designed not just as a shop but as a community space, hosting surf flick nights, meetups, and more. “It’s a haven for the surf community,” Jeff says. “A place where newbies and pros alike can share stoke.”

“We have a vision for our new shop to be a haven for the LBI surf community that links surfing newbies with experienced surfers. It’s only fitting to have a location for LBI Surfing in “Surf City.” Beyond private lessons, LBI Surfing also offers curated group experiences that deepen bonds both in and out of the water. One standout example is their collaboration with Princeton University’s swim team, which returns annually for surf workshops and team-building activities that blend athleticism with ocean awareness. This partnership highlights the school’s commitment to fostering teamwork, resilience, and a shared love for the water among diverse groups.

Today, LBI Surfing offers a full suite of experiences—from private lessons and group camps to an extensive rental program boasting over 500 carefully selected pieces of gear, including surfboards, standup paddleboards, kayaks, bikes, manual and electric surreys, and essential beach equipment. Booking is effortless and streamlined through their user-friendly online system, allowing customers to book lessons, reserve rentals, or plan group outings all in one seamless transaction. For maximum convenience, gear can even be delivered directly to your doorstep or beach house, ensuring every surf session or island adventure starts hassle-free. Complementing these offerings, their retail shops also carry a curated selection of beachwear that combines performance with laid-back island style, reflecting the full lifestyle around surfing and coastal living.

Even with all of these modern amenities, however, the soul of the school remains unchanged.

LBI Surfing has earned a reputation for more than just great surf lessons—it’s known for its safety-first approach, expert coaching, and welcoming, family-like atmosphere. Students range from toddlers to retirees. “Last summer I taught a woman named Judy for her 68th birthday,” says the founder. “She stood up on her first wave while her family cheered from the sand. That sticks with you.”

While they teach students of all ages and abilities, the goal is always the same: to make surfing fun and accessible, so that students fall in love with the sport. Jeff places a strong emphasis on setting beginners up for success—getting them started on

the right board, in the right conditions, with instructors who care and who prioritize building a strong foundation of fundamentals.

A major part of the school’s success lies in its dedicated team. Jason Hoch has been a lead instructor for LBI Surfing for 16 years and is highly requested every summer by returning students. Jason is a teacher at Southern Regional with a Doctorate Degree in Earth Science. His teaching passion ensures every lesson is both educational and exhilarating.

Aaron and Elizabeth ensure that the Beach Haven shop’s rental program and camp and lesson check in process run smooth every summer. Jeff and Aaron were childhood classmates from LBI Grade School through graduating from Southern Regional.

Ethan and his brother Seth are heading into their fifth year with LBI Surfing. Both are Marine Science majors at Stockton University, and this summer you’ll find them leading the Beach Haven camps with their signature high energy and stoked-on-life personalities. Each season, the staff includes around 30 instructors and counselors. Many are local teachers, lifeguards, former campers, and even competitive surfers—some

of whom were once students themselves. “Kevin and Jake started in our camp. Now they’re instructors,” Jeff says. He even stood beside the former as a groomsman in his recent wedding.

That full-circle spirit is what makes LBI Surfing more than just a surf school—it’s a tradition. The school has quietly shaped the island’s surf culture for three decades, nurturing a sense of continuity and belonging that ripples through generations. Kids grow up through the program, come back as teens to mentor the next wave of learners, and later return as adults, now parents themselves, enrolling their own children. Families revisit summer after summer. Lifelong friendships are formed between instructors and students. Under Jeff’s steady mentorship, local youth grow into confident leaders both in and out of the water. In a world of constant change, LBI Surfing remains a touchstone for community, connection, and coastal tradition.

“It’s cool to look back to before soft top surfboards and surf schools were a thing, and I was just teaching for the fun of it, not realizing that it was going to become what it is today. Our goal was always to make sure that our students learned the correct way. With our camps and instruction, we are simultaneously teaching ocean safety, which in turn helps to keep everyone safe.” —Jeff Santoloci

The Santoloci family—Jeff’s wife Danielle and their children—are deeply woven into the fabric of LBI Surfing, making it as much a family-run operation as it is a community cornerstone. Danielle, a former Rockette who spent 13 seasons performing at Radio City Music Hall and 15 years producing NFL halftime shows, brings a unique blend of creative vision and organizational prowess that has been instrumental to the school’s growth. From coordinating large-scale surf programs to managing events and streamlining operations, her behind-the-scenes role is vital to the daily rhythm of the business. Their oldest son, River, now 15, began as a junior instructor and has become a trusted member of the coaching staff, embodying the next generation at LBI Surfing. During the summer, it’s not uncommon to find their younger children—Story, age 9, and Maddox, 11—helping out around the shop. Story enjoys entering new inventory like wetsuits and bikes into the retail system, while Maddox, the family’s tech guru, handles video edits and drone footage. It’s a full family effort, and their collective passion keeps the stoke alive, season after season.

The school’s Instructor Certification Program, launched more than a decade ago, is another standout offering. Held each spring, it ensures that all instructors not only earn certifications in CPR, first aid, and water safety, but also become deeply grounded in the school’s core values: compassion, respect, and genuine connection with each student. “Teaching surfing is easy,” Jeff says. “Teaching with purpose—that’s what takes work.” The program reinforces the highest standards in safety, leadership, communication,

and responsibility—qualities that uphold the school’s decades-old reputation and distinguish its team from the pack. While surf schools now line the Jersey Shore, Santoloci and his crew remain committed to substance over style.

“There’s a lot of noise in the industry right now,” he admits. “We keep it simple. We focus on doing things the right way.”

What truly sets LBI Surfing apart is the depth of experience behind every lesson—hard-earned through decades spent not just in the local lineup, but on breaks around the globe. Jeff has chased waves in Central and South America, the West Indies, Africa, Hawaii, and the remote archipelagos of Indonesia, building a breadth of knowledge that informs everything he teaches. He’s studied under top board shapers and helped refine surfboard designs to better match East Coast conditions. That global expertise has made him a go-to resource for surfboard selection—one of the most important (and misunderstood) decisions for beginners and experienced surfers alike.

Jeff understands that choosing the right board goes far beyond height and weight. It requires an understanding of the surfer’s experience, athleticism, goals, and the specific wave conditions they’ll be riding. That’s why he offers personalized consultations and encourages surfers to take boards out for a spin—with a lesson—before making a major purchase. “Too many surfers come to us after buying the wrong board from someone who didn’t know what they were doing,” he says. Through thoughtful guidance and real-world testing, Jeff turns confusion into confidence, helping surfers find a board that feels like an extension of themselves.

And when the New Jersey surf season winds down, the adventure doesn’t stop. Each fall and winter, Jeff keeps the stoke alive by leading small-group surf retreats to destinations like Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Portugal, and beyond. These immersive trips offer students the chance to deepen their skills, push their limits, and ride waves in some of the world’s most awe-inspiring locations. Traveling with LBI Surfing means having a seasoned guide who knows the breaks, understands the local culture, and curates every detail—from accommodations to surf spots—to match each participant’s level and goals. “Travel is one of the best teachers,” Jeff says. “Surfing in new places opens your mind and brings people together in the most amazing ways.”

“We’ve had students come back 10 or 15 years later just to say thank you. That means everything to me.” —Jeff Santoloci

Beyond business, Jeff and his family are deeply committed to giving back to the community that shaped his childhood. Together, they support local efforts like Alliance for a Living Ocean, helping to organize beach cleanups and promote ocean conservation. They’re also hands-on with Waves of Strength, a nonprofit that gives individuals with special needs the chance to ride their first wave—often on a donated LBI Surfing surfboard or with an LBI Surfing volunteer right there beside them.

“It’s about more than surfing,” Jeff says. “It’s about sharing the stoke, building confidence, and connecting people to something bigger than themselves.” Whether it’s teaching, volunteering, sponsoring, or just showing up to support local causes, the Santoloci family leads with heart—using surfing as a way to bring people together and make a difference.

As the surf school enters its 30th year, Jeff remains as humble and committed as ever. He envisions the new retail space in Surf City as more than just a shop—it’s a haven for the surf community, a place where experienced surfers and first-timers can connect, share stories, and feel at home. “We want people to feel like this is their space,” he says. “Whether it’s your first wave or your five-hundredth.”

Still, ask Jeff what he’s most proud of after 30 years, and the answer is simple:

“The proudest moments aren’t business milestones— they’re seeing the kids come back as adults, bringing their own kids. It’s being part of their lives, of their summers, year after year. That’s what it’s always been about. That’s the real reward.”

At 30 years strong, LBI Surfing is more than just an origin story— it’s a living piece of local history. Slapping one of the iconic LBI Surfing stickers on your surfboard, bike frame, or water bottle isn’t just about repping a brand—it’s a badge of honor, a quiet declaration that you belong to this place, to this community, to something real. In a coastal culture shaped by shifting trends and seasonal tides, LBI Surfing remains an anchor of authenticity.

Few local businesses carry the same depth of experience, continuity, and connection that Jeff and his family bring to the beach every summer. “We’ve seen the trends come and go,” Jeff says. “But the ocean doesn’t change. Neither do our values.”

LBI Surfing’s continued success is a testament to the quiet power of doing one thing—with heart, passion and commitment—for a very long time.