+Brielle
FLIGHT PATHS
OUR HOMETOWN AVIATORS
HISTORIC SEA RESCUE ONE FAMILY’S ROLE
Running Down a Dream
Step behind the scenes of beloved running shop Miles Sports, where owners Bruce and Sharon Robinson have cultivated a community that spans generations.
Flight Paths
Meet two local aviators, one beginning her career and one making the final descent. 22
A Tale of Two Ships in the Night
Darren Monroe recounts the story of The SS Morro Castle, The Paramount and a family’s legacy on the water.
and Sharon Robinson in front of the legendary “shoe tree.”
JOHN SOLIMAN, DMD, MD - ALAINA HARRINGTON, DMD, MD - DANIEL WINSTON, DDS - RADISLAV MEYLIKH, DDS
lTHE HEAT IS ON
LET’S TALK NUMBERS. As I write this, it’s 91 degrees in Manasquan and 93 in Brielle. And, as of this writing, it’s still only late June. By the time this issue reaches your mailbox, we might be in the triple digits here at the Jersey Shore.
Here’s something you should know about me: I don’t mind the heat one bit. I actually kind of love it. Sure, if I’m being rational, a day in the low 70s is probably the most physically comfortable. But it’s the scalding hot days flirting with 100 that can be the most fun.
Maybe it’s just that I have so many great memories that were made in this weather. I grew up in a house with no central air, just one noisy little window unit of an air conditioner that was somehow relegated
to my sister’s room. So, unless you wanted to hang out with a bunch of Barbies and Cabbage Patch Dolls, you had to go outside and find creative distractions to beat the heat.
That meant running through a sprinkler or riding bikes to the nearest body of water or making friends with somebody who had a pool. And those are the little adventures that stick with you well into your adult years. If my younger self had had the luxury of a thermostat to turn down, that would have certainly made my bedroom a little more livable. But turning down the thermostat and drawing the shades is not how any kid was meant to spend the summer.
On that note, be sure to check out the Around Town department in this (and every) issue. It’s pretty remarkable just how many great events the Jersey Shore has to offer, especially at this time of year. From live music and art shows to outdoor sports and movies on the beach, there is always something happening. And please reach out if you want to make sure we cover an upcoming event. We love to get your suggestions.
In the meantime: Be safe, stay hydrated, lots of sunscreen, blah blah blah. But if you catch yourself turning into one of those softies that needs to blast the AC every time the mercury starts climbing, take another look at everything happening outside in the summer heat. Consider how rejuvenating a good sweat can be. And needless to say, everybody looks better with a tan.
Christopher Baldi Editor
Manasquan +Brielle
MAGAZINE
Group Publisher
Jodi Bruker
Director of Business Development
Kathy Gordon
Editor
Christopher Baldi
Writers
Leigh Mallin
Molly Mechler
Morgan Mechler
Darren Monroe
Meghan Schultzel
Photographer
Christina Lilly
Alana Mahon
Social Media Manager
Molly Mechler
WAINSCOT MEDIA
Chairman
Carroll V. Dowden
President and CEO
Mark Dowden
VP, Group Publisher, Regional
Thomas Flannery
VP, Content Strategy
Maria Regan
Creative Director
Kijoo Kim
Art Director
Rosemary O’Connell
Associate Editor
Sophia Carlisle
Advertising Services Director
Jacquelynn Fischer
Operations Director
Catherine Rosario
Production Designer
Chris Ferrante
Print Production Manager
Fern Meshulam
Advertising Production Associate
Griff Dowden
Manasquan + Brielle magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Manasquan and Brielle, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained here in do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Copyright 2025 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.
PHOTOGRAPH BY ALANA MAHON
Untitled-4
Denise Dreyer
REALTOR® Associate GRI, ABR, SRS, SRES
Ward Wight Sotheby’s International Realty | Sea Girt
Company Top Producer 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2023, 2024
2024 Top Producing Agent in Sea Girt*
NJ REALTORS® Circle of Excellence Platinum Sales Award ®
Named #3 in NJ by RealTrends Verified
*MOREMLS Sea Girt Closed Sales: All Categories 01/01/2024 - 12/31/2024
Brand New Construction – 200 Ludlow Ave
Welcome to this stunning New Construction – ideally located on the north end of Spring Lake, just three blocks from the beach & boardwalk and moments to the shops & dining along Third Ave. This exceptional home offers fine architectural details offering the perfect combination for privacy & retreat. An inviting front porch invites you to four impressive levels of casual comfortable shore living. Designed with timeless coastal elegance, the home features six bedrooms, six full and 1 half baths and an open floor plan that seamlessly connects the living room, dining area and gourmet kitchen ~ ideal for everyday living and entertaining. Thoughtfully appointed with custom millwork throughout, the interior exudes quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. The fully finished lower levelincludes a legal bedroom, full bath, office, exercise room and a spacious family room and gaming area with custom built-ins. Enjoy the saltwater heated gunite pool and patio for summer days at home. A one car detached garage thoughtfully designed with rooftop placement of AC condensers and a full house generator to maximize yard space which completes the picture-perfect shore retreat. Estimated Completion Date is July 21st.
To learn more about my exclusive marketing platform or to discuss your real estate plans for the future, contact me today at 201.819.2604 (Cell) or 732.449.5959 (Office) or email ddreyer@wardwightsir.com.
Timeless & Tranquil – 116 New York Blvd
Nantucket-Inspired Elegance – known as the ''Garden Cottage” this home is nestled in one of the most sought-after communities along the Atlantic. Designed by one of Monmouth County's leading architects, this beautifully maintained home spans three levels of thoughtfully designed living space, offering a lifestyle of comfort, convenience, and understated luxury. Some of the interior features include a four-stop elevator, four bedrooms, three and a half baths and beautifully appointed living and dining rooms each with its own fireplace adding warmth & charm to the heart of the home. From the moment you arrive, the white picket fence, lush gardens, and beautifully manicured landscape create an inviting first impression. Step inside to discover custom millwork throughout, rich hardwood floors and an abundance of built-ins that provide both character and function at every turn. Each room is filled with natural light and carefully crafted details from cozy reading nooks to integrated cabinetry and storage solutions designed for modern living. This home offers indoor and outdoor spaces to relax, unwind, and gather. Whether you're hosting summer evenings surrounded by a blooming garden or enjoying the ocean breeze from your porch, this is coastal living at its finest. A rare opportunity to own a turnkey residence in one of Sea Girt's most desirable locations.
Local Happenings
What’s going on around town!
June 21
Back in our June issue, we profiled Michael Ricci and the inspiring efforts of Operation Beachhead. On June 21, participants and volunteers hit Spring Lake’s Pitney Avenue beach for the group’s first event of the summer. Want to get involved? Visit www.opbeachhead.org and find out how you can make a difference and change lives, all while having some fun in the sun.
Congratulations to Brielle’s Dylan Mattessich, a rising golf phenom from Manasquan High School who won the 2025 Under Armour Junior Golf Tour in Palm Beach, Florida “It’s always an honor to represent New Jersey,” said Mattessich via social media. “Huge thank you to my parents and family for everything they do and the sacrifices they make so I can play. This one was special. Solid start to my summer season!”
June 17
Twenty anglers participated in the Manasquan Fishing Club’s River Fluke Tournament The following club members took top honors, following a lively day of competition:
1st - Fred Yarmolowicz, 21.5 inches at 4.28 lbs.
2nd - Luis Cadalzo, 21 inches at 3.81 lbs.
3rd - Mike Gliddon, 21 inches at 3.74 lbs.
Happening at The Algonquin
In July, fans of all ages packed The Algonquin Arts Theatre for an enchanting production of “The Wizard of Oz.” The latest installment of The Algonquin’s Broadway Series starred Nicole DiBlasi as Dorothy, Charles Thomas Hughes as Scarecrow, Edward Itte as Tin Man, Anthony Preuster as Lion, Jenna Shrestha as the Wicked Witch and Frank Rogers as The Wizard. Next up: Get your tickets for the Algonquin’s production of “Rent,” coming to town August 9 to 17!
June 26 The Manasquan Sea Lavender Garden Club hosted their 2025 Garden Tour, an enchanting tour of local private gardens which also featured a homegrown array of music and art. Interested in taking your garden game to the next level? Visit sealavendergardenclub.com and get involved!
August 1 &2
From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. hit Manasquan’s Main Street, and shop for great deals from your favorite local businesses at the Summer Sidewalk Sale
August 3
From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., bring the whole family to Squan Plaza as Manasquan Seniors presents their annual Very Berry Festival, featuring unique food, crafts, art and antiques from across the Jersey Shore.
August 5
Both Manasquan and Brielle will take part in the nationwide celebration of National Night Out Against Crime, an annual event aimed at strengthening ties between first responders and the communities they serve. In Manasquan, festivities will take place from 6 to 8:30 p.m. in the Squan Plaza Hosted by the Manasquan Police Department and Fire Departments #1 and #2, the event features an impressive display of fire trucks, police vehicles and rescue equipment. Families can enjoy a bounce castle, wet slide, cornhole, face painting, live music, a pie-eating contest and a free BBQ cooked up by local police, fire and EMS personnel. In Brielle, the Police Department, Recreation Commission and local officials will welcome residents to Brielle Park from 5 to 8 p.m. Attractions include a bungee trampoline, rock wall, obstacle course, face painting, balloonist and more. Officers will serve popcorn and cotton candy, while Kiersten’s Creations dessert truck offers sweet treats for purchase. Both events are free to attend and promise fun, food and a strong sense of community.
August 2
Hit Manasquan’s Riddle Way Beach for the 9th Annual Beach Smash Wiffleball Tournament Registration now open to boys, girls, men and women of all ages. It’s a full day of fun in the sun, but bring your game face because the competition is fierce! For more details, check out beachsmash.com.
August 14
Grab your girls and leave the men at home as Ladies Night Out returns to downtown Manasquan!
August 18 - 23
From August 18 through 23, paddle downtown for the return of Manasquan’s Surfboard Decorating Contest! All week long, surfboards are displayed around town, and you help pick the winners! Take a stroll, check out this year’s array of entries and vote for your favorites via QR code!
August 22 & 23
Stop into Manasquan’s Weston Gallery for a dazzling trunk show featuring celebrated jewelry designer Adel Chefridi You’ll fall in love with the work of Chefridi, whose designs embody the harmony found in timeless beauty. His signature engraving is a common element in Tunisian design, from jewelry and architecture to textiles. Visit westongalleries.com for more information!
AROUND
August 28
Start your engines and cruise downtown for the summer’s third and final Meet Me on Main Street Car Show. From 6 to 10 p.m., Manasquan’s Main Street will be hosting some of the coolest whips, rigs and hot rods of the Jersey Shore.
August 30
Send off summer on the open water as Manasquan Tourism presents a day of Canoe, Kayak and Paddleboard Races! Race participants compete across a mile-long course on Stockton Lake. Registration starts at 9 a.m., and the race begins at 10!
ARE YOU READY TO ROCK?
Manasquan’s free Summer Concert Series continues through August with live performances every Thursday night from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Admission is free, so bring the whole family to Manasquan’s Main Beach to catch these great local artists!
August 7: Red House Band
August 14: Northern Lights
August 21: The GrooveSharks
Movies on the beach! This August, pack the beach chairs and get the popcorn to go because these great movies are coming to a beach near you! Admission is free; movies begin at dusk. Check your town’s homepage for exact locations.
Belmar:
August 6: “Under the Boardwalk”
August 13: “The Princess Diaries”
August 20: “Inside Out 2”
August 27: “The Wizard of Oz”
Point Pleasant:
August 5: “Sonic the Hedgehog 3”
August 12: “Wicked”
August 19: “ET: The Extra Terrestrial”
August 26: “Despicable Me 4”
Seaside Heights:
August 3: “Inside Out 2”
August 10: “Moana 2”
August 17: “Wicked”
August 24: “Sonic the Hedgehog 3”
Do you have a real life ghost story? True tales of the paranormal? Spooky local legend? We want to hear from you! We’re hard at work on our October issue, and we’re looking for all of the coolest, creepiest, hair-raising true stories from Manasquan, Brielle and the Jersey Shore! Bumps in the night? Noises in the attic? We want to know! Email us at hello@manasquan-brielle.com!
Running Down a Dream
The story of Miles Ahead Sports is one of a decades-long relay race, with the baton being passed from one generation to the next.
BY MOLLY MECHLER
LLOCATED JUST BLOCKS from the Sea Girt boardwalk, Miles Ahead Sports has grown into more than a running store—it’s become a trusted cornerstone of the community. With its signature slogan, “Running at the Shore, Since 1984,” the shop has spent four decades helping runners of all ages and every skill level find the perfect fit. Behind its success lies a love story, a marathoner’s grit and a family’s enduring passion for movement.
Bruce and Sharon Robinson have been a team ever since their days as high school sweethearts at West Essex High School in North Caldwell, New Jersey, where they graduated in 1968. In 1971, drawn by a sense of adventure, they followed a close friend who was studying art to Washington D.C. and eventually settled in Silver Spring, Maryland.
It was in Silver Spring that Bruce’s athletic journey began, while working at a store called Racket and Jog. Over time, he became the go-to guy for all things running—even resoling shoes for local athletes.
“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”
Lao Tzu
Sharon and Bruce Robinson in front of the original “shoe tree.”
But the pull of the Jersey Shore, where Bruce and Sharon had both spent their childhood summers, eventually became too strong to resist. In 1983, they settled in Manasquan. Bruce spent a few days a week making ice cream in his cousin’s shop, Circle Freeze, when a conversation with the landlord changed everything. The commercial space next door had just become available, and Bruce was encouraged to take on his next big leap: opening a store of his own.
“We spent six months designing, renovating and setting up the space,” says Bruce. In May 1984, Miles Ahead Sports officially opened its doors. The store’s name is a clever nod to running but was actually inspired by the 1957
jazz album by Miles Davis, one of Bruce’s musical heroes. As a lifelong music lover, Bruce saw the title as the perfect blend of his two passions.
Outside the original location stood a towering tree, which eventually became adorned with sneakers dangling from nearly every branch. The spectacle began as a playful challenge between Bruce and his brother-in-law Scott, as they were competing to see who could throw their shoes the highest. Over time, the Miles Ahead shoe tree became a beloved local landmark.
After 28 years at its original location, Miles Ahead Sports outgrew the space and the shoe tree. On March 12, 2012, following a six-month renovation, the
store opened the doors of its current location at 2100 Highway 35. With this move came an updated logo: a Grateful Dead-style “Stealie” with a runner at the center, inspired by one of Sharon’s favorite bands.
Today, the store remains a lively gathering place where new and longtime customers can find the best footwear along with stories, support, race-day memories and advice from familiar faces.
BORN TO RUN
Over the years, countless customers have gotten to know Bruce as a friendly and knowledgeable local business owner, but he’s also a legendary athlete. After taking a four-year break from
Left: The Miles Ahead team. Right: Sharon and Bruce Robinson in their store, 2025.
running following high school, Bruce was inspired by watching Frank Shorter and Steve Prefontaine at the 1972 Olympics. “I thought to myself, I could do that.” And he did—over many years of incredible athletic success.
“Kind of like Forrest Gump, I just signed up for races and kept on running.”
With nothing but his high school track experience to draw on, Bruce entered his first marathon in 1973: The George Washington’s Birthday Marathon, a three-loop course around government-owned property in Beltsville, Maryland. He crossed the finish line in 3 hours and 40 minutes and muttered the famous last words of countless runners before him: “I’m never doing that again.”
But just two short months later, he found himself at the starting line of the Boston Marathon. And as Bruce continued to race, his times improved. He finished his first Boston Marathon in 3 hours and 5 minutes.
In September 1973, he ran his first New York City Marathon, which was then held entirely in Central Park. He finished in 2 hours and 42 minutes. For some perspective, fewer than 3% of New York City Marathon participants finish in under three hours.
Years passed and Bruce’s times kept improving. His personal best? A jaw-dropping 2 hours and 18 minutes at the 1978 Boston Marathon, a time that found him passing Frank Shorter, one of his own athletic heroes. (Again, to put that into perspective: Imagine running a mile in 5 minutes and 17 seconds, for 26.2 consecutive miles.)
Bruce made personal history yet again at the 1980 Olympic Trials in Buffalo, once again edging out Shorter as he was competing for a spot on the U.S. team. His Olympic dreams were cut short when the U.S. boycotted that year’s games. But his drive never faltered.
Over time, Bruce would complete 100 marathons around the world, six Ironman races in Hawaii, 20 biathlons, 50 triathlons and countless shorter
races along the way. “The celebration after the race is always the best part,” he says with a laugh.
SOLE PURPOSE
The story of Miles Ahead has always been a shared journey. Through every mile, Sharon has been at Bruce’s side, helping to raise their children Courtney and Shaun while also growing their business from the ground up.
After 9/11, Courtney left her job in New York City to raise her own family and assist in running the store full-time.
Shaun, who had occasionally helped with bookkeeping, became an instrumental part of the business after Bruce faced health challenges. In 2023, Shaun stepped in permanently to help bring the store into the digital space.
Sharon and Bruce Robinson, circa 1984.
Top:
Left: Miles Ahead’s first location opened its doors in 1984.
These days, Bruce and Sharon’s six grandchildren can often be found at the shop, chatting with customers, helping behind the counter or grabbing a slice with Oma and Pops from Little Dom’s, their go-to pizza place down the street.
Now more than ever, the Miles Ahead team feels more like family than staff. Longtime team members include Jay Russell, who started with tent sales in 1990 and has been onboard ever since; Gunnar Svendsen, a founding member of the store’s original running team, now celebrating 27 years; and Keith Matthews, who brought his deep technical knowledge from Foot Locker when he joined in 2003.
“We were all runners,” says Bruce. “Once a week, we’d head out for 20 miles. I never even knew how far we were going, I was too busy talking to my friends.”
THE HOME STRETCH
Today, Bruce is sidelined from competitive running, following (simultaneous!) double knee replacements. But he can still regale a listener with decades’ worth of incredible memories. He smiles as he remembers the highlights, like placing third in his very first over 40 Ironman division or running three marathons in under three months. “I just kept signing up,” he laughs. “I didn’t really think about how close together they were.”
On an average day, a Miles Ahead customer might hear a race recap from the Honolulu Marathon, which Bruce managed to complete while recovering from an illness. They might hear a mountain biking story from Allaire State Park. They might even leave the store feeling inspired to train for their first triathlon. No matter what that customer is looking for, Miles Ahead has always been about much more than gear. It’s about life in motion.
At 41 years and counting, Bruce and Sharon are still running the race of life—with a team, a town and a great family at their sides. Their story is a decades-long relay, with the baton passing from one generation to the next. While the store has grown and evolved, its heart remains unchanged: a welcoming space where runners of all ages and abilities find more than sneakers. They find encouragement, camaraderie and a starting line just a few blocks from the sea.
Molly Mechler is a dedicated mother, seasoned educator, avid reader, recreational runner, thrifty shopper and local beach lover infused with a visionary mind for writing.
Bruce Robinson has completed over 100 marathons since 1973, including an incredible personal best of 2:18 at the Boston Marathon in 1978.
Flight Paths
Adventures in aviation, as told by two different pilots—one at the beginning of her ascent and one preparing for landing.
Brielle’s Sophia Mechler recently piloted her first solo flight.
BY MORGAN MECHLER
TTWO PLANES CIRCLE the runway. While one takes off and soars into the atmosphere, the other slowly descends and touches down. Brielle might not have an international airport, but it’s the shared hometown of two extraordinary pilots who are currently on different paths in their remarkable journeys across the sky.
At 19 years old, Brielle’s Sophia Mechler is one of the few local women actively pursuing flight training and aspiring to a career in commercial aviation. This fall, she begins her sophomore year at the University of North Dakota’s highly ranked John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences, where she is majoring in commercial aviation, the second-ranked program of its kind in the country.
Ever since she was a little girl, Sophia knew that she belonged in the sky. “I spent my childhood frequently traveling to Florida to visit family. As I got older, I realized I enjoyed flying more than the actual destination or vacation.”
Her love of flying took off in high school, when she would look into the clouds to escape the stress of everyday life. “Every day after school when the bell rang, I’d make the hour drive to Newark Airport just to sit in the parking lot and watch the planes take off and land. It helped to clear my mind and calm me down. Or, when I was working at Manasquan beach as a badge checker, I would
look up and see the planes flying overhead, wishing I was the one in the cockpit.”
While still in high school, Sophia began taking flight lessons through a private aviation program. In 2022, she piloted a plane for the very first time. Today, she flies regularly as part of her training. She is currently working toward her next set of certifications, including instrument and commercial ratings.
While most of her peers have only recently passed their driving test, Sophia has already flown a Piper Archer and a Cessna 172.
“My favorite is a Piper Archer because of the way it flies due to its low wing. It’s smoother to land and easier to control.”
THE VIEW FROM ABOVE
At UND, Sophia takes courses that focus on the technical aspects of flight and also gets lots of hands-on experience. “We take physical tests regarding cockpit instruments and how they work, and then I actually get to fly using that knowledge.”
She attends ground school, where students receive in-depth instruction on aircraft systems, regulations, safety procedures and navigation. She takes meteorology as an elective to better understand natural forces like the moon and the tides. She also studies Air Traffic Control, where she learns how to coordinate with controllers during flights.
Even while juggling classes, Sophia has logged dozens of hours in the sky.
Sophia in the cockpit.
She’s flown to places like Fargo, North Dakota and Allentown, Pennsylvania. “Looking down and seeing all of the towns and people below me—and even my own house—is indescribable. It’s something you can only understand once you’ve experienced it.”
This summer, while millions of college students came home to relax, Sophia stayed in North Dakota to log more hours. She believes that North Dakota’s aviation program makes the distance from home and the brutal winters all worth it. “The opportunities are endless. I was surprised by how often we actually get to fly. I thought it would be only once or twice a week, but in actuality it’s around five or six times a week.”
To date, Sophia’s furthest flight was over 250 miles and lasted 6 hours. After college, she hopes to fly for United or Delta as a commercial pilot. “It’s surreal to be able to land in a new destination and say ‘I flew myself
here.’ It’s an adrenaline rush. Feelings of happiness and relaxation course through my body. I never think about anything else besides me and the plane when I’m flying.”
THE FINAL DESCENT
While Sophia’s journey is just beginning, Brielle’s Mike Schwarz is coming in for a final landing. His wheels will touch down for the last time on August 16, as his 43-year-long aviation career officially concludes on his 65th birthday. (Commercial pilots are required to retire at 65, a law mandated by Congress and enforced by the FAA.)
Mike was always interested in planes, even as an undergrad at South Carolina’s Furman University. But ironically, his aviation journey began on the ground, as an armor officer in the Army, from ages 22 to 25. He was initially assigned to lead tank operations, but a visit to an Army National Guard camp changed his life.
“When I got my assignment, I was supposed to be in tanks for three years. But I was amazed by the pilots. That’s what inspired the idea to fly.”
On the heels of that visit, Mike immediately applied to flight school, where he learned to fly both helicopters and airplanes.
He served on active duty from 1982 to 1991, including five years supporting the first Gulf War. He continued his service in the Army Reserve and National Guard until 2005 and made frequent flights over Germany.
In 1992, Mike transitioned into commercial aviation, beginning his career with American Airlines. “American’s medical evaluation was extremely intensive,” he says. “But I appreciated the thoroughness. It showed they valued safety and professionalism.”
Mike spent the first half of his career based in New York, flying out of LaGuardia, which remains one
Above: Sophia in the cockpit at UND. Center: The view from an A320 cockpit. Right, top: Captain Mike Schwarz and co-pilot. Right, bottom: Captain Mike Schwarz prepares to retire this August.
of his favorite airports. “LaGuardia is surrounded by water and has short runways, which makes it both challenging and exciting.”
For the last seven years, Mike has served as a captain based in Philadelphia and also worked as a check pilot. He’s trained new captains and first officers on the Airbus A320, a narrow body aircraft. He’s flown both domestic and international routes, frequently landing in the Caribbean. “There’s no set route. I’d do one- to three-day trips all over the U.S. and Caribbean. Grand Cayman was definitely a favorite.”
His career has been filled with memorable moments and high-altitude stories. “Flights from JFK to LAX or to London were constantly packed with celebrities, making for exciting and unpredictable trips.” He’s piloted some flights that saw medical emergencies in mid-air, but thankfully, he’s never had to divert, a testament to calm
professionalism and experience in the cockpit.
“One of my favorite memories is flying the former CEO of American Airlines when I was just starting out. When he boarded the plane he was applauded like a rock star. After landing, I thanked him for flying with me, and he sat down with me in the cockpit. He actually wanted to hear my thoughts and ideas.”
PREPARE FOR LANDING
Although his career with American Airlines is soon ending, Mike isn’t ready to leave the skies. He plans to explore teaching opportunities as a flight instructor, where he can pass on a lifetime of skills as well as a deep love for aviation.
As retirement nears, Mike plans to mark the occasion with one final and meaningful flight. On August 16, after a quick visit to Mike’s youngest son in St. Louis, the whole Schwarz family will
board their return flight, and Mike will fly from St. Louis to Philadelphia one last time. “I’ve flown with my family before, but my retirement trip with them will be special,” says Mike. “The celebration is set to begin as soon as we touch down.”
As one plane takes off and another lands, pilots like Sophia Mechler and Mike Schwarz remind us that every flight holds a story. Sometimes, that story is just beginning, like Sophia chasing her dreams. And sometimes that story is concluding, like Mike wrapping up a storied career. The next time you spot a plane in the sky, keep an eye out—it could be someone from our own backyard at the controls.
Morgan Mechler is a graduate of Manasquan High School and currently an undergrad at the University of Miami.
The SS Morro Castle, which ran aground in 1934 near Asbury Park.
A Tale of Two Ships in the Night
AAUGUST 23 MARKS the 95th anniversary of the maiden voyage of the ill-fated SS Morro Castle. The Morro Castle was an American ocean liner that mysteriously caught fire in the early morning hours of Sept. 8, 1934 on its return trip to New York City from Havana, Cuba. The ship ultimately ran aground in front of Convention Hall in Asbury Park. Of the 489 passengers and 240 crew members on board, 137 people perished. It was a tragedy that made international headlines with stories of heroes and villains that rival the world’s most famous shipwreck, the Titanic, which sank in 1912.
Some of those heroes worked on a 60-foot fishing charter boat from Brielle called The Paramount, owned and operated by Captain John Bogan Sr. The crew of The Paramount were among the first to respond to the disaster, as the Coast Guard was hours behind due to adverse weather conditions. In total, the crew of The Paramount saved 67 passengers. “We didn’t stop until we heard no more screaming,” Captain John Bogan Jr. said in a New York Herald article.
The Bogan family business is still in operation today, enjoying its fourth
BY DARREN MONROE
generation of ownership. Captain Tony Bogan currently operates the business along with his siblings, Sharon and Howard.
I recently had a chance to speak to Captain Bogan about his family’s legacy and the current state of Bogan’s Deep Sea Fishing Center. He was kind enough to share some stories passed down from his grandfather, John Bogan Jr., who was running the ship alongside his father on that fateful day in 1934. In fact, it was John Jr. who made the overriding decision against his father’s
judgment to risk the ship and crew in the inclement conditions, for the sake of those suffering at sea.
The business began in Jersey City as Bogan’s Beach, where the family rented out row boats and eventually purchased a fishing boat. Four years before the Morro Castle disaster, Bogan Sr. moved his business from Jersey City to Brielle. The Army Corps of Engineers had recently announced that they would be making the Manasquan Inlet a permanent inlet, and Bogan Sr. likely foresaw a boom in fishing tourism.
The SS Morro Castle, The Paramount and a family’s legacy on the water.
On the morning of the Morro Castle incident, the crew was gathering to go fishing when they got the call.
One notable story Tony shared was that of two survivors, rescued by The Paramount crew, who had coincidentally lived down the street from the Bogans during their time in Jersey City. The survivors later sent the Bogans a thank you letter and expressed their shock at seeing their old neighbors coming to their rescue in the middle of the Atlantic!
“Had it not been for the boat captains and other people in this inlet, a lot more people would have died,” says Tony. “The Coast Guard were warning against it, but they said ‘screw that, we gotta get out there and help these people.’”
A LEGACY ON THE WATER
In the 90-year history of the Bogan family business, the size of the fleet has expanded and contracted with the size of fisheries, as well as with economic and technological developments. Up until the 1960s, there were as many as 11 smaller boats in the fleet, eventually shrinking to fewer, larger boats up to 125 feet in length.
The Paramount crew, photographed shortly after returning from the disaster; from left: Captain Charles Gifford, Captain Everett Eberhardt, Captain Knute Lovgren, Captain John Bogan Jr., pilot James Bogan Sr., John Bogan Sr., Captain William Firman, engineer Clayton Weller, Thomas McDowell. Right: The Bogan still has a Paramount in their fleet, decades later.
Currently, the fleet has four boats sailing out of Brielle: Jamaica, Jamaica II, The River Queen and The Paramount (not to be confused with the original), as well as a bait and tackle shop and another boat which docks in Point Pleasant.
The business is fundamentally the same as it was back in John Sr.’s days, with about 40% of their clientele hailing from Pennsylvania. (The Manasquan Inlet is the most direct route for many Pennsylvanians to reach the open ocean.) Bogan’s Deep Sea Fishing Center offers half day, 3/4 day, full day, night, overnight and longrange offshore fishing trips, catching everything from fluke to Atlantic bluefin tuna.
Today, memory of the SS Morro Castle shipwreck lives on mostly in the striking images of the charred, hulking ship towering over crowds in front of Convention Hall. It also lives on in the Bogan family business and the New Jersey Maritime Museum in Beach Haven, which houses many artifacts from the wreck. The disaster’s legacy also contributed to many improvements in industry safety
standards, including the required use of fire-retardant materials in ship building and enhanced lifeboat procedures.
Ultimately, the tale of the Morro Castle’s demise and the plight of its passengers is not just one of tragedy and horror but of bravery and sacrifice. Hundreds who fled the flames were forced to jump ship into the freezing Atlantic. But fortunately for many, The Paramount crew from Brielle were there to heed the call.
For a more detailed history of the Morro Castle incident, check out the book “Inferno at Sea: Stories of Death and Survival Aboard the Morro Castle” written by Gretchen F. Coyle and Deborah C. Whitcraft of the New Jersey Maritime Museum.
Darren Monroe is a Jersey Shore native. He likes to cook, play guitar and read nonfiction. He’s currently reading “Is a River Alive?” by Robert Macfarlane. He’s also been watching Love Island Season 8, but don’t tell anybody.
Left:
From the Ground up
Jersey Shore Lawn Sprinkler keeps the Garden State irrigated.
IN THE WORLD of irrigation, one simple rule has carried Jersey Shore Lawn Sprinkler Construction Company to national recognition: Put the client first. That philosophy, rooted in customization and integrity, has helped the Toms River-based company become one of the 75 largest irrigation businesses in the country, as ranked by Irrigation Business & Technology.
The company got its unofficial start in 1985 when Anthony’s father, Anthony A. Sierchio Sr., a police lieutenant, first took on an irrigation job for a friend’s shopping center. From the beginning, the company was a true grassroots effort. Donato, one of the Sierchio sons, joined him on that first job. The two worked part-time, teaching themselves the ropes.
After being honorably discharged from the Marine Corps, Anthony Junior was looking for his next step. He landed an irrigation contract for a gas station under construction. That was when Jersey Shore Lawn Sprinkler officially got its name.
Today, the company is co-owned by Anthony, Donato and Christopher Sierchio—all of whom remain deeply involved in day-to-day operations. Whether the project is a small residential job or a multi-acre installation, one of the owners is always on-site with the crew.
Jersey Shore Lawn Sprinkler now employs a team of 37, including nine service crews and three installation crews who work year-round, offering same-day or next-day service. Clients include schools, churches, shopping centers, parks, golf courses, health care facilities like Jersey Shore University Medical Center and even FirstEnergy Park, home of the Lakewood BlueClaws.
The company stays ahead of the curve by embracing conservation and smart irrigation technologies. Their systems are designed to minimize waste, and each new installation comes with a two-year warranty on parts and labor, plus two spring start-ups and winterizations—crucial services that protect a customer’s investment.
But what truly sets Jersey Shore Lawn Sprinkler apart is its team culture. Many team members have been with the company for more than 30 years, forming a tight-knit crew that values quality and respect. “We make sure every job site is left cleaner than when we arrived,” says Anthony. “And we train every customer to feel confident using their system.”
As they look to the future, the Sierchios remain focused on the same principle that started it all: service rooted in trust and quality. “When
your project needs an irrigation and well system, we provide expert installation at a competitive price with the most comprehensive warranties available,” says Anthony. “We care about our clients’ needs, including their schedule and their bottom line. We’ve been providing quality you can trust since 1985 and will continue for many decades to come.”
College Essays That Are On Point brainstorm topics showcase yourself
your story Contact Me Today Molly Mechler 848-469-2111 elevateyouressay@gmail.com www.elevateyouressay.org @elevateyouressay
BOOK NOOK
A Trip to the Ocean!
What’s better than a cooling late summer dip in the ocean? How about a compelling book that will transport you to the water? Here are some of my sea-inspired picks!
BY LEIGH MALLIN
THE ADVENTURES OF AMINA AL-SIRAFI
by Shannon Chakraborty
After a long and storied career as one of the Indian Ocean’s most notorious pirates, Amina al-Sirafi has retired to a quiet life with her daughter. That is, until the extremely wealthy mother of a former crew mate comes to her with a proposition that she finds impossible to refuse: Amina must retrieve the kidnapped daughter of her former comrade. The reward is a sum of money that could change the course of her and her daughter’s lives forever. Amina sets sail with her old crew and quickly finds there is much more to this job than she bargained for. This is a page-turning, edge of your seat adventure story with a cast of characters you will not soon forget!
BETWEEN THE DEVIL AND THE DEEP BLUE SEA
by Jessica Guerrieri
Not necessarily a book about the ocean, but one that will certainly pull you into its current and not let go until the very end. A beautifully written and heart-wrenching slow burn of a novel that centers on Leah, an “active alcoholic” who feels torn between her past life of freedom, art and surfing and her seemingly perfect life as wife and mother of three. How much of
ourselves are we willing to sacrifice for our children? Leah’s first-person narration is full of emotion and vulnerability. This is a great book club pick!
A MARRIAGE AT SEA: A TRUE STORY OF LOVE, OBSESSION, AND SHIPWRECK
by Sophie Elmhirst
Have you ever dreamed of fleeing your life? Of selling your home and possessions, quitting your job, buying a boat and sailing out to sea? In 1972, Maurice and Maralyn Bailey did just that. Their goal was to sail to New Zealand, but nearly a year into their journey, in the middle of the Pacific, their boat was hit by a breaching whale and sunk into the sea. Over the course of 117 days, with only a meager life raft to keep them afloat, the couple struggles against incredible odds to keep both themselves and their marriage alive. This is an incredibly propulsive true story of love, hope and survival.
JAWS
by Peter Benchley
Celebrate the iconic Steven Spielberg movie’s 50th anniversary by tearing through the pages of the novel on which it was based. Jaws is a literary thriller which follows police chief
Martin Brody as he tries to protect his Long Island resort community from the terrors of a massive great white shark. He teams up with a marine biologist and an aging fisherman to hunt the shark, all while his fellow townspeople clamor to protect their booming summer tourist season. If you are a fan of the movie, pick this one up and take all the heart-pounding excitement with you the next time you head to the beach!
BARBARIAN DAYS: A SURFING LIFE by William
Finnegan
This Pulitzer Prize-winning memoir is the perfect end of summer book to throw in your beach bag. Finnegan shares his lifelong passion for surfing, from his early days growing up in Southern California and Hawaii, to his later adventures chasing waves around the world. He chronicles his coming of age on the water: his own personal growth, the camaraderie he found among fellow surfers and ultimately, his current role as a writer for The New Yorker. A must read for our surf-loving community.
Leigh Mallin is a bookseller at BookTowne.
Beat the Heat and Stay on Track
Wellness Watch with Meghan Schultzel.
AS THE SUN BEGINS its slow descent from its summer peak and August rolls in, it’s easy to feel the tug-of-war between lounging with a cool drink in hand and sticking to your wellness goals. Let’s be real: Those Miami Vices at Leggett’s have a way of sneaking into our summer plans. But fear not, you can sip your way through the season and still emerge victorious, bikini body or not. Here’s your guide to end-ofsummer fitness...because who says you can’t have your cake (or cocktail) and eat it too?
WHEN TO WORK OUT
Summer heat can turn even a short workout into a sweaty ordeal, but timing is everything. Early mornings (before 8:00 a.m.) can be your golden ticket. You can take advantage of cooler temps and a stunning sunrise to boot. Avoid the midday scorch (think 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.) when the sun is relentless. If evenings call to you, post6 p.m. sessions catch that gorgeous twilight vibe.
Truth be told, sweat is the fountain of youth. It’s a natural detoxification and works wonders for your skin. Just make sure you hydrate like it’s your job—water,
coconut water or a splash of electrolyte mix—and listen to your body. If you’re pregnant or sensitive to heat, take excerise indoors or scale back.
DIY WORKOUTS: NO GYM, NO EXCUSE
You don’t need fancy equipment to stay fit because the Jersey Shore’s beaches and backyards are your playground!
Try a 15-minute bodyweight circuit:
• 10 push-ups
• 15 squats
• 20 lunges (10 per leg)
• 30-second plank
• Repeat three times
Add a twist with beach sand resistance. Squat jumps or walking lunges in the soft stuff will torch your legs. For a core blast, lie on your towel and try 20 bicycle crunches. No space? A quick yoga flow (cat-cow to downward dog) stretches it all out. Aim for three sessions a week, and you’ll be keeping up with the Belmar bros and babes without stepping foot in a gym.
PROTEIN-PACKED SUMMER RECIPES
Fuel your fitness with these quick, summer-friendly recipes that pack a protein punch—all of which can be made in under 20 minutes and will keep you energized without heating up the kitchen.
• Grilled Shrimp Avocado Boats: Grill 6 ounces of shrimp (about 20 grams of protein) with lemon and garlic. Scoop out half an avocado, fill with shrimp, and sprinkle with chili flakes. Ready in 15 minutes—a perfect post-beach snack!
• Chickpea Salad Jar: Mix 1 cup canned chickpeas (about 15 grams of protein), diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes and parsley with a lemon-
tahini dressing. Layer in a jar for a portable lunch. Takes 10 minutes!
• Frozen Yogurt Bark: Blend 1 cup Greek yogurt (about 20 grams of protein) with honey and berries, spread on a tray and freeze for two hours. Break into pieces for a cool treat. Prep ahead for lazy days.
FINAL SIP OF WISDOM
August is your last hurrah to shine this summer. Whether you’re mastering a plank on Pompano Beach or sipping a Miami Vice at Leggett’s, balance is key. Mix these workouts with your own routines, fuel up with quick recipes and time your efforts to dodge the heat! See you in September!
Want to be featured in an upcoming Wellness Watch? Have a fitness or wellness event that you’d like featured? Reach out to Meghan.schultzel@gmail.com.
AUGUST BEACH WORKOUT OPTIONS IN MANASQUAN
1. ALIGN MOVEMENT POSTURE PERFECT SERIES
What: A 9-week posture-focused class blending yoga, specialized techniques and deep-tissue release for a balanced, pain-free body. Prenatal and postpartum friendly!
When: Saturdays, June 28 to August 23, 7:30 to 8:30 a.m.
Where: Inlet Beach
Cost: Drop-ins $20, 8-week Community Pass $135
Why Try: Perfect for easing beach chair carry woes and relieving back/shoulder tension. Contact Rachel at 732.267.1944 or alignmovement.com.
2. SEA WATCH BEACH YOGA
What: A serene beach yoga session to unwind and strengthen
When: Thursdays, 6:30 p.m., now through October 9
Where: Sea Watch Beach
Cost: $14
Why Try: Evening vibes with Kathleen from Yoga Bliss Love Studio. Ideal for stretching out after a day of sun and fun. Contact yogablisslovestudio@ gmail.com for details.
3. MANASQUAN BEACH YOGA WITH TOM
What: Morning yoga to kickstart your day
When: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 7:30 to 8:30 a.m., May 31 to September 1
Where: Sea Watch Beach
Cost: $10/session
Why Try: Led by Tom Manni (text 908.410.9426 or email tom@tommanni.com). Bring your towel and beat the heat early.
4. DO PILATES ON THE BEACH
What: Fun, functional Pilates with surf, sand and sun—more than just planks and squats.
When: Wednesdays and Fridays, 7:30 to 8:30 a.m., July 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30; August 1, 6, 8, 13, 15
Where: Pompano Beach (held indoor at St. Denis School, room 1 in case of inclement weather)
Cost: 12-session Community Pass $144 ($12/class) or $15 drop-in
Why Try: Contact Theresa at 914.960.9214 or @cultivateyourcore. Tailored for all levels—bring a towel!
OP
LIVE AT THE GARDEN
THIS YEAR’S Sea Lavender Garden Tour was accompanied by perfect weather, beautiful music and the creative juices of several local artists. Manasquan’s Lara Savannah snapped this image of artist Jennifer Harold as she was working. “Sometimes we get too busy to notice the small things, which are actually the big things in this world,” says Savannah. “I absolutely love the outdoors and the beauty and serenity it gives us daily.”
Have a great image for Photo Op?
Submit your high-resolution shot to Chris.Baldi@manasquanbrielle.com.
PHOTOGRAPH BY
LARA SAVANNAH PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO
