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Manasquan

+Brielle

ART FROM THE SEA BRIDGET SAWITSKY

IT MUST BE A SIGN YIPPEE! YARD CARDS

first summer job is always memorable. Hear from local residents on the highs and lows of earning their first real paycheck.

Bridget Sawitsky has a unique use for your next catch: turning your fishy finds into beautiful artwork.

The brainchild of two best friends, Yipee! Yard Cards highlights celebrations in Manasquan and beyond.

Manasquan +Brielle

3 THE WORKFORCE AWAKENS

30 YEARS AGO this summer, I officially entered the workforce at a little ice cream shop down in Seaside Park. I was 15 years old and had never held a real job before. Prior to scooping ice cream, my whole entire annual income was contingent on $10 bills that came with my birthday cards. $20 if I was lucky. Then came the summer of 1995. Suddenly I was making five bucks an hour, plus tips. And those tips were the big X factor, because on a busy Saturday night in the summer, a kid could work his butt off and charm the customers and leave with 100 bucks in his pocket. (When adjusted for inflation, 100 bucks in 1995 is roughly equivalent to about a million dollars today.)

Like any job, there were downsides. Long

shifts. Occasionally, pushy customers. And on Sunday nights, we had to drag a whole week’s worth of trash out to the curb, and I can still vividly recall the smell of all those melted dairy products after they’d been marinating in the summer heat.

But all things considered, it was the greatest job I’ve ever had. The owner was never around. I worked with about a dozen cute teenage girls. I ate more ice cream than you can possibly imagine, and I never put on an ounce of fat. (Again, I was 15.)

And what really made that job special was that none of it mattered. I wasn’t looking for a promotion or recognition or health benefits. I had no bills whatsoever, which meant that every dollar I took home was disposal income. It all went straight to the movies, the music store and Grog’s Surf Palace.

I love the job that I have now. I’ve been writing professionally for almost 20 years, which is something that my 15-yearold self used to dream about. But even when you love what you do, careers are a grind. There are days when I’d trade it all to be 15 again, making five bucks an hour at a gig that came with no pressure and zero consequences. We have a really fun feature this month, compiled from readers who submitted memories of their first summer jobs. Thank you to everybody who shared their stories. It’s been a blast to read your submissions and revel in nostalgia with you.

And if you’re a kid on summer vacation, reading this issue from a lifeguard stand or from behind a cash register, enjoy that minimum wage gig while you have the chance. You have it better than you realize.

Christopher Baldi Editor

Group Publisher

Jodi Bruker

Director of Business Development

Kathy Gordon

Editor

Christopher Baldi

Writers

Leigh Mallin

Amy McCarthy

Molly Mechler

Darren Monroe

Meghan Schultzel

Photographer

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

Local Happenings

What’s going on around town!

May 20, 2025

The Manasquan Fishing Club hosted a Black Seabass fishing trip aboard Point Pleasant’s Queen Mary “It was a very successful trip with many fish in the cooler,” said the MFC’s Joe Choma. On July 17, the MFC hosts its annual Ocean Fluke Tournament, open to club members and their families. Looking for some reel fun? Hit the open sea and plan your next fishing trip aboard the Jersey Shore’s #1 rated charter at njqueenmary.com.

Huzzah to the cast and crew of The Algonquin Arts Theatre’s production of 1776: The Musical In May, the latest installment of The Algonquin’s Broadway Series played to sold out crowds and rave reviews. Special thanks to John Posada for the production photos. Next up: Take a stroll down the yellow brick road for the Algonquin’s production of The Wizard of Oz, coming to The Algonquin July 12 to 27! Get your tickets now!

July 3, 2025

FIREWORKS!

Grab the whole family and ring in the Fourth of July holiday one night early, as Manasquan hosts its annual Independence Day Celebration Fireworks and Concert. Get there early for live music on the beach, with fireworks scheduled to begin just after dusk.

July 6, 2025

FEELING CRAFTY?

From 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., bring the family to Squan Plaza for the 2025 Ladies Auxiliary Craft Fair and shop a variety of art, antiques and vintage goods! Hosted by the Manasquan Ladies Fire Auxiliary.

July 11, 12 & 26

JEWELRY & CRAFTS

For a few special days in July, Manasquan’s Weston Gallery hosts another series of trunk shows, showcasing dazzling jewelry and crafts from renowned local artisans. On July 11 & 12, experience the Lika Behar Collection, a unique gathering of wearable art that exemplifies the skills and passions of old jewelry traditions. On July 26, Weston hosts creative jewelry designer Susan Roberts, known for beautiful feminine arrangements of gemstones in every color. Visit westongalleries.com for more information!

July

24, 2025

CAR SHOW

Start your engines and cruise downtown for another 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. Can’t make it? The Car Show returns for one more night in August!

July 16

SANDCASTLE CONTEST

One of the summer’s biggest events returns, as hundreds convene on the 17th, 18th and 19th Avenue beaches of Belmar for the New Jersey Sandcastle Contest. Registration begins at 8 a.m. and judging begins at noon, for an all-ages event full of games, prizes, music and the shore’s most superlative sand sculptures! (Rain date: July 17.)

FISH TALES:

Stories of the Fireman’s Fair Fish, past and present

Every summer, the Manasquan Fireman’s Fair transforms our little town into a whirlwind of laughter, sticky cotton candy fingers and the ultimate kid trophy: a live goldfish. These aren’t your average pet store fish, oh no—these fair fish are destined for greatness, growing to sizes that will make your jaw drop, living far longer than anyone expects, and leaving behind stories that become the stuff of local legend. I don’t know what they put in that fair water, but these little swimmers are absolute champions, and their tales are pure gold.

Take my own family’s fair fish saga, for instance. Last summer, I gave my boys the green light to bring home their very own fair fish. Enter Sunshine, our adorable little goldfish, who I was convinced would be a 48-hour guest before the inevitable flush. Oh, how wrong I was! Sunshine- perhaps more fittingly named Maestro—grew faster than any fish I’ve ever seen. He started at one measly inch, and nine months later, he’s a whopping seven inches long! We upgraded from the tiny fair container to a bigger one, then an even bigger one. I naively thought a small tank would stunt his growth. Nope! Sunshine just kept expanding to match his tank. Now that he’s approaching his first birthday, he reigns over a 29-gallon tank that’s completely ruined my kitchen’s aesthetic. But every morning as I feed him, Sunshine wags his tail like a happy puppy, and he certainly brightens my day.

Then there’s Nina Tartarski’s story, a fair fish rescue that will tug at your heartstrings. On the second-to-last night of the fair, a group of teenagers carelessly tossed a sparkly goldfish into a puddle. The Tatarski brothers and their friends saw the whole thing and leapt into action, scooping up the fish with the urgency of superheroes. They tracked down Nina and Joe and begged, “Can we run home and grab some Tupperware?” Off they dashed, returning with a Pyrex dish to give the fish a fighting chance. Their friend Owen came through with a spare tank—and this little

Warrior was left with one fin after a group of teenagers threw him from a ride, but Harry Tatarski, Everett Tatarski and Owen Hughes rescued him and gave him a second chance.

survivor, fittingly named Warrior, joined some new tank mates, swimming strong with the kind of grit that makes you cheer.

The Fair Fish Hall of Fame doesn’t end there! The Hirsches have a whole dynasty: They brought home Broccoli in 2021, Bubbles in 2022 and Runner in 2024. Barbara Waltzinger McCredie’s fish just passed in May but lived eight epic years. Erin Patrice Bennett had one in the ‘80s that lasted six years in a Hellmann’s mayo jar—talk about a quirky home! Mark Farrell’s fish has grown to an impressive six inches, and Tierney Clayton Park’s fish, won six summers ago, is still going strong after losing its tank mate last month.

These fair fish aren’t just prizes—they’re legends in the making, proving that even the tiniest swimmers can make a big splash in Manasquan. The Fireman’s Fair returns to Mallard Park on July 29 through Aug. 2, featuring live bands, carnival rides, a variety of the best local food vendors and a $25,000 raffle. This year, aim for that goldfish—you might just end up with a story that swims its way into history!

-Meghan Schultzel

From top left: Matt Mangan won Gary in 2021. Matt Mangan with Gary, 2025. Dalton, Lincoln and Sunshine Schultzel in July 2024. Sunshine in May 2025, now seven inches long.

July is National Ice Cream Month!

To mark the occasion, we rounded up action shots from two of Manasquan’s most delicious locations, Main Street’s Main Scoop Creamery and Atlantic Avenue’s Dairy Queen Want to get in on the action? Send us photos from your family’s next ice cream night!

Let’s Pesto!

BY DARREN MONROE

THE OTHER DAY, I was in the library returning some halfread books and stumbled on a pesto cookbook. It felt quite serendipitous because I’ve been on a pesto-making (and eating) kick, so I took it as a sign from the culinary gods and checked it out. So, this month, I’m exploring this incredibly versatile paste and its many variations.

The name pesto derives from the Italian verb pesta meaning ‘to pound’ and shares the same Latin root for pestle, as in mortar and pestle. A mortar and pestle is a cooking tool consisting of a bowl, usually made of a hard material like marble, granite or even volcanic rock, and a blunt clubshaped object for grinding.

This tool is so useful and universal that it’s been found in ancient cultures across the world, from Mexico, in the form of molcajetes to make salsas, Southeast Asia for curry pastes and North Africa for harissa pastes.

In fact, most culinary traditions have some kind of paste used as a base for sauces and spreads. Whether you call it pesto, paste, puree or something else, these concentrated flavor bombs enhance whatever dish you are making! Spread onto toast, toss with pasta, use as a base for curry, a marinade for your favorite protein or dollop on soup. The possibilities are basically endless.

In the Italian tradition, pesto generally consists of herbs, nuts, garlic, olive oil, hard cheese and sometimes an acid in the form of lemon or vinegar. For example, Genoa, Italy is home to what

Cooking with

Chef Darren.

is probably the most widelyrecognized pesto recipe, which is made from basil, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. In my recipes, I forego the cheese and use nutritional yeast instead, which is a cheesy, nondairy alternative to cheese.

My favorite part about making pesto is the ability to mix and match ingredients. My favorite nuts and seeds to work with are cashews, sliced almonds, walnuts, pumpkin and sunflower seeds. I also like to play around with different herbs besides basil, including parsley, cilantro and mint, as well as young greens like baby spinach, kale, carrot tops and arugula.

When I make pesto, I usually make a big batch and freeze several 8-ounce portions, so I have a supply of it on hand for a while. The paste thaws out quickly and keeps in the fridge for up to a month. Again, it’s the perfect ingredient to have on hand to elevate whatever you’re preparing.

This month I’m sharing my go-to traditional (vegan) pesto recipe! Notice I use a food processor rather than a traditional mortar and pestle because: First, I don’t have a mortar big enough to process these ingredients, and second, it’s 2025, and that’s what powered kitchen appliances are for! In any case, either will do. Enjoy and let’s PESTO!!

PESTO!

This month’s recipe is versatile, vegan-friendly and very easy to make!

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 cups basil (option to substitute 1 cup greens of choice)

• 3 cloves garlic

• ½ cup cashews

• 1/3 cup olive oil

• ¼ cup water

• ¼ cup nutritional yeast

• 1 lemon, juiced

• 1 teaspoon salt

DIRECTIONS:

1. Start by processing the garlic with the lemon juice in your food processor. This will help mellow out the strength of the garlic in the recipe.

2. Next add the cashews and process until roughly chopped, then add the rest of the ingredients. Process to desired consistency, wiping down sides occasionally for a consistent blend.

3. Add more water or oil if needed. Taste for salt and enjoy!

Chef Darren hosts various events, such as farm-to-table dinners and cooking classes throughout the Jersey Shore. In 2024, he launched a small-batch soup brand called Süp, which sells in select local groceries and farmer’s markets. Visit Chef Darren’s website at darrenmonroe.co and check out his socials @darren.monroe.

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Minimum Wage Memories

“It was a job that challenged me, shaped me and gave me unforgettable summers. I’ll always consider it the best job I’ve ever had.”

-Anna Catherine Pelligra on Manasquan Beach Patrol.

True stories of the hottest, stickiest, very first summer jobs!

BY M+B STAFF

TTHE PAY WAS LOW. The days were long. But when you grow up at the Jersey Shore, there’s something a little magical about your first summer job. This month, readers and contributors share the stories behind their very first paycheck.

JEN MUNDIE, Manasquan

My first summer job was as a lifeguard at the town pool in Springfield, New Jersey, when I was 15. It all seemed very glamorous to me as I was envisioning Wendy Peffercorn from The Sandlot It was mostly a lot of boredom during those 12 to 8 p.m. shifts but also lots of sun and fun! The whole staff used to sneak into the pool after hours to have parties. I don’t think I ever confessed that to my parents, but I guess the secret is out now!

ERINNE REGAN, Brielle

Landing my first summer job was a rite of passage: equal parts thrilling and nerve-wracking. I was fourteen, armed with more enthusiasm than experience, and landed a position making specialty donuts at a newly opened local shop. I thought it would be all sprinkles and smiles, but within the first hour, I quickly learned fresh donuts are HOT, frosting is deceptively sticky and powdered sugar is sneaky. The days were sweet, filled with the laughter of kids and the occasional chaos of long lines in the heat. I learned how to manage a register, smile through stress and decorate donuts like a

RUSSO, Wall

Many years ago, I had my first job at a new defunct movie theater in Ocean County called Cinema Alley. The theater really lived up to its name. There were two screens in a weird little venue that was literally at the back of a dark alley.

My older sister had been working there for a while. I was never even hired officially, but the theater was so understaffed that sometimes my sister had me come to work with her, so that there was somebody to help sell concessions while she sold tickets. I never signed any paperwork and the whole thing was completely under the table.

Some of the weeknights were so slow that we’d only sell one or two tickets. I definitely remember one movie that played to mostly empty theaters: Jaws Part 4: The Revenge There was one very slow night in late August when we didn’t sell a single ticket, so naturally, I just wandered into the back of the theater and took a seat and watched the movie.

It was the first time I had ever seen any of the Jaws movies, and it left me completely traumatized. The next time my family went to the beach, I couldn’t even go near the water. Our mom nearly called the theater owner to complain that they were letting their underage and off-thebooks employees watch gory horror movies.

Ironically, if you ever see that movie through grown-up eyes, it’s terrible. It’s not the least bit scary.

PAT

MOLLY MECHLER, Spring Lake

My first summer job was at Beach Break Ice Cream Shop on the Belmar boardwalk. A local spot known for its sandy floors, long lines and the constant hum of excitement from beachgoers. It was June of 1992, school had just let out and I was ready for a season of scooping ice cream, swirling soft serve and blending milkshakes. I had just perfected my soft serve twist when, in an instant, everything changed. The familiar sounds of summer were suddenly drowned out by shouting, breaking glass, and the wail of sirens. MTV had sponsored a concert by the hip-hop duo Kris Kross, and just minutes into their set, the event spiraled into chaos as riots broke out. I remember the scene vividly; crowds of concertgoers flooded the boardwalk, their carefree energy replaced by panic and confusion. My coworkers and I quickly locked the shop’s front windows and doors, watching in disbelief as Belmar’s relaxed beach front turned tense, surreal and genuinely frightening. It was my first real taste of unpredictability and crisis. Staying calm under pressure, crouching behind the counter and waiting (not so) patiently for my dad to come get me taught me more than how to master the perfect soft serve swirl. That job gave me a story I’ve told for years and marked the beginning of a summer I’ll never forget. And if there’s one thing that’s stuck with me ever since, it’s this: No matter how chaotic life gets, always make time for ice cream.

pro. Despite the chaos (and a few brief incidents with the donut machine), I left each shift smelling like a deep fryer and feeling like a hero—one donut at a time.

ANNA CATHERINE PELLIGRA, Manasquan

Lifeguarding with the Manasquan Beach Patrol for a full decade was, without a doubt, the best summer job and office I could have ever had. As a Manasquan local, getting to protect and serve the very beaches I grew up on made the experience especially

meaningful. The job demanded a high level of responsibility—from staying alert during crowded beach days to responding swiftly in emergency situations—it also came with a sense of pride and purpose. My background in competitive swimming gave me the confidence and skillset to excel in the water, while the structured shifts and training sessions taught me valuable responsibility and time management skills that I still use today as an attorney and business owner.

Beyond the professionalism and responsibility, lifeguarding at

Manasquan was about community. The beach patrol quickly became like a second family; I formed lifelong friendships with fellow guards who shared my commitment to keeping beachgoers safe. Whether we were setting up the stands at sunrise, training together for lifeguard tournaments, or simply enjoying a post-shift surf session, there was a deep bond forged through shared experiences. It was a job that challenged me, shaped me and gave me unforgettable summers—and for that, I’ll always consider it the best job I’ve ever had.

RICK BUTTAFOGO, BookTowne bookseller

I remember my first job ever. My oldest brother worked as a bellhop at the Sheraton Hotel. It was summer, and little league started up. He didn’t want to lose his job while playing baseball, so he gave me his schedule...and I just went in to work for him wearing his uniform. LOL. No one hired me. I simply punched in his card. When he got paid, he gave it to me. $2.57/hour. Yep. I totally remember it.

CLARA SEIGLER, Lake Como

I was 14 when I took a job as an assistant lifeguard at a public pool. It was the summer between junior high and high school. Technically, there was a training period, which consisted of CPR instruction, swimming tests, etc. A big part of that training was swimming to the bottom of the deep end and picking up weights.

But once I started, I definitely felt out of my depth (so to speak). I was a timid kid to begin with, and I started to dread the idea of actually having to rescue anybody. There’s a big difference between collecting inanimate objects from the bottom of a pool and rescuing a human body. I began to get startled and cringed every single time a kid screamed, and you know how public pools are. There are kids screaming all day long.

I had originally applied for the job because the pool was in our neighborhood, and I could walk there. (This was two whole years before I learned to drive.) I began to feel like there was something very weird about being paid to protect strangers from drowning when I was too young to drive.

SUSAN KUPER, BookTowne bookseller

When I was 15, I started my first job at Baskin-Robbins in the mall. I was in charge of scooping ice cream and making ice cream pies. The pies— like Turtle, Almond Fudge and Mint Chocolate Chip—were tricky. The key was timing. You had to press the ice cream into the frozen crust before it started to thaw, or the crust would crack, and the whole pie would be ruined.

One day during my shift, I started making a Mint Chocolate Chip pie. But just as I got started, a family came in, and I got totally distracted scooping cones and handing out samples. By the time I got back to the pie, it was too late. I tried to finish it, but the crust cracked and fell apart.

I panicked. Since I was still pretty new, I was afraid of messing up and getting into trouble. So, I did the only thing I could think of—I hid the ruined pie in the bottom of the freezer, and, on my break, I ate the whole thing to get rid of the evidence.

I haven’t eaten mint chocolate chip ice cream since.

PETER, BookTowne owner

I worked summers at The Yankee Peddler Inn as a server. One Sunday, my whole family surprised me for brunch, and as I was clearing the table of metal silver chargers, plates and utensils on one big tray, I approached the kitchen swing door that we had to go through, with four steps up to the kitchen. I kicked that swing door a little too hard… made it up two steps before the swing door swung back and clipped the back of my tray. Not only did everything fall and smash, but there was an extended commotion as silver chargers kept tumbling down the stairs back into the dining room.

My grandmother, sitting at the table and covering her ears said, “Don’t worry nothing broke!”

A Local Artist Scales Up

Want to have your fish and eat it too? Artist Bridget Sawitsky has a unique and colorful way of memorializing your next catch.

BY AMY MCCARTHY

BBRIDGET SAWITSKY HAS lived by the water all of her life. Manasquan was the place she called home until she settled in Brielle with her husband, Chris, and three adventurous boys, Charlie, Ben and Teddy. Growing up in Manasquan afforded her time on the water, whether it was swimming, boating, rowing or sunbathing; the ocean provided an incredible environment to grow up around as a child.

It was also a time for her to develop her talents as an artist, with help from her mom, Margaret Patterson, a well-known local artist. Bridget and her mother began teaching art classes in Manasquan, and while searching for some inspiration to bring to her classes, she stumbled upon the method of Japanese fish printing known as Gyotaku (ghee-oh-ta-koo).

By definition, “Gyotaku” translates literally into “fish” (gyo) and “rubbing” (taku). The earliest known example of Gyotaku—though this is somewhat contested—traces back to the form of a carp caught in the Mogami River in 1857. The recording of a fisherman’s catch did not originally begin as an art form, but instead as a way to

keep track of what was caught. This technique was first used by Japanese fishermen who wanted to make a record of the size and species of fish they caught.

With her boys on the water fishing, coupled with her creativity and interest in something new, Bridget experimented with catches of all kinds and worked to improve her “fish rubbing” skills. As local fishermen caught wind of her work, she began to take on projects for some that wanted to save a “reel” memory of a great day at sea. As demand grew, Bridget (along with her partner Nancy Sonett) founded a business called Sea and Scales, which has since become the unofficial Gyotaku headquarters of the Jersey Shore.

Like a true artist, Bridget is able to create images that are extremely

realistic and look like an actual fish that was caught. But she can also tailor the project to meet her clients’ needs and create artwork to match the color-scheme of a specific room or setting. She recently had a work commissioned for a client in Spring Lake, who was looking for a unique piece to capture the “beach town” vibe. I recently sat down with Bridget to go deeper into the art of Gyotaku:

How did you first hear about Gyotaku?

In 2012, I was giving art lessons with my mom, and we were looking for something that was different from the typical art projects for kids taught in school. We tried it with a small group in a studio in Manasquan, and they loved it. For the next several years, I developed my technique with a lot of practice and did projects for family and

friends as they brought their ‘catches’ to me after a successful outing.

Once a fish is caught, how quickly do you need to get started?

It varies. I prefer working with freshly caught fish because the ink takes best and creates the clearest image. But I have also worked with frozen fish for clients bringing their catch back a day or two later.

What do you do with the fish once the project has been completed?

I wash off the ink, put it back on ice and return it to the fisherman. At that point the fish is completely edible, which makes for a delicious dinner!

What is your favorite fish to print?

I do not have a ‘favorite’ that I prefer to work with, rather I prefer fish with very distinct scale patterns. They create more detailed prints that can be truly appreciated and enjoyed.

What is the largest fish that you have worked with?

It was a tuna that was about 4 feet long. I got a phone call from a local angler who asked me to meet at the docks. The fish was taken off the boat, and I did the traditional method of Gyotaku with just the black ink. Then I took it home and added the color!

Do you work with any other sea creatures besides fish?

Yes, I have printed lobsters, shrimp, octopus and crabs. I have also recently used the Gyotaku method of printing to monstera leaves and daffodils.

What’s the best soap for getting your hands clean after working with ink and dead fish?

I don’t have a favorite soap for cleaning my hands after printing. Typically, my hands don’t smell fishy because I am working with fresh fish and they don’t really stink yet. The the ink pretty easily washes off, but

getting it out from under my nails can be tough.

Every fisherman has a story about “one that got away.” Are there any prints that you didn’t get right and/or had to scrap? Yes, it often takes more than one attempt to get a clean print. Some creatures are easier than others. But I keep printing until I get one I am pleased with.

Have you actually eaten any of the fish that you’ve worked with? If so, which one was the most delicious?

Absolutely! I would have to say either mahi-mahi or tuna.

How can people find your work to purchase?

My website, seaandscales.com, has all the images for reproductions, and you can find my work at Artisan Spirit in Spring Lake and Jersey Shore Moments Fine Art Gallery and Framing in Manasquan.

Sawitsky’s experience with Gyotaku may have begun as an experiment but has since become a genuine talent. It has helped her make a name for herself, both in the local art scene and on the docks amongst local fishermen. I have seen Sawitsky’s work firsthand and her products (wine bags, kitchen towels and holiday stockings) are finely crafted and great for gifts. Check out her work before it swims away!

Sawitsky can be reached for all “fresh catches” by phone at 732-757-5138. Or, visit her website seaandscales.com.

Amy is a proud local mom of five and a dedicated supporter of all things family and sports. She loves cheering on her kids at their games and is a big fan of Manasquan High School athletics. On fall weekends, you can usually find her watching Penn State football with her husband PJ.

Bridget Sawitsky’s original art can be viewed and purchased online at seaandscales.com, or in person at Manasquan’s Jersey Shore Moments Fine Art Gallery and Framing.

It Must Be A Sign!

Behind the scenes of Yippee! Yard cards, from friendship to the front lawn.

BY MOLLY MECHLER

WWHEN FRIENDS TARA Mundy Collinson and Michelle Honuaer first reconnected years after high school, they didn’t initially realize that it would lead to big things...but the signs were there. Once they put their heads together, a business was born. And over the past five years, Yippee! Yard Cards have been making celebrations bigger, brighter and more memorable, literally one oversized custom lawn sign at a time.

Tara and Michelle’s friendship began at Manasquan High School. They both graduated in 1991, and for a while thereafter, life took them in different directions. Tara went to Brookdale Community College as an art major and spent several years working in local toy

stores. Michelle’s passion for retail and sharp eye for design took her from an early job at Celebrations, to a career in highend jewelry wholesaling, which found her traveling up and down the East Coast.

For several years, the high school classmates followed their respective muses along different paths. Tara married and settled in Manasquan, where she and her husband could raise their two children. Michelle also got married and returned to Spring Lake Heights to raise her family.

Then, when their sons were both around eight years old, the old classmates crossed paths through local sports. “We’d see each other at games and events,” says Tara. “We just picked up where we left off all those years ago.”

Yippee! owners Tara Mundy Collinson and Michelle Honuaer.

Behind the scenes of Yippee!’s inventory.

SIGN OF THE TIMES

In July 2020, the two friends transformed their bond into a creative business partnership. It began during the pandemic, when Tara traveled to Massachusetts for her brother-in-law’s 50th birthday. As she arrived at the party, a large yard sign crafted by her sister-in-law caught her eye. “I fell in love with it immediately,” says Tara. “I took pictures, sent them to Michelle and called her as soon as I got home. I couldn’t stop thinking about starting something similar.”

With a modest investment, the duo purchased a starter set and began brainstorming brand names. Eventually, they hit on one they both loved. Yippee! Yard Cards was born. “We kept throwing out names,” Tara says with a laugh. “This was the only

one that made us both smile. It just felt happy. Now we’ve shortened it to simply Yippee!”

Even amid the challenges of the Covid lockdowns, Yippee! steadily built a local clientele, relying solely on social media and word of mouth. “It was tough at first, but we stuck with it,” says Michelle.

Today, business is booming. With thousands of colorful corrugated plastic letters in stock, Tara and Michelle create bold, personalized yard displays for every kind of milestone; including birthdays, graduations, anniversaries, baby announcements, gender reveals, proms, welcome homes and even cancer treatment completions. Together, they turn ordinary moments into extraordinary memories.

WORDS WITH FRIENDS

Their process blends creativity with precision. Each layout is carefully pre-planned in Tara’s basement. They go through backup letters, multiple design elements, and endless rolls of double-sided tape to ensure a flawless finish at every site. “We’re perfectionists,” says Michelle. “We want everything to be just right.”

The signs are staked using heavyduty custom-made metal rods built to withstand the elements. “They’re not just colorful,” says Tara. “The letters are durable, reusable and environmentally friendly.”

The letters range in size from 23 to 30 inches. A display typically stands for at least for 24 hours, often set up on a Thursday or Friday and picked up on Monday, giving every recipient plenty of

time to enjoy their sign.

Yippee! operates seasonally from April through December. Once winter arrives, frozen ground, snow and high winds make installations difficult—and sometimes unsafe. “Unless it’s a repeat customer and the weather is in our favor, we take a break from January through March.”

“Happy Birthday” remains their most popular message, followed closely by graduation signs, making late spring and early summer their busiest season. Each display is unique, one-of-a-kind, never duplicated and thoughtfully crafted. “One family has ordered a birthday sign for their daughter six years in a row,” says Tara. “Every year, we create a new design to top the last.”

One of their oddest requests quickly became a favorite: A sign in Belmar which read “Follow The Call To The Disco Ball” directed partygoers to a secret celebration. Another favorite was a heartfelt promposal from a grandfather to his granddaughter, based on a family’s inside joke. Yippee! has a knack for capturing the humor and love that make each family’s moment uniquely special.

Yippee! is already a well-loved fixture across coastal towns like Spring Lake Heights, Point Pleasant, Manasquan and Brielle, and the brand is still steadily growing. Despite early challenges, Tara and Michelle remain committed to their craft. Their venture is a testament to the power of friendship, the strength

of community and the joy of celebrating life’s special moments.

“Seeing the joy these signs bring makes it all worth it,” says Michelle. “We’ve helped families celebrate everything from births to recovery milestones. It’s more than decoration. It’s a moment of happiness we get to be a part of.”

From the art of personalization to the joy of reconnecting, Tara and Michelle have turned their shared creativity into something vibrant and lasting- one sign and one celebration at a time.

To learn more about Yippee! Yard Cards, or to place an order for your next special occasion, visit yippeeyardcards.com or follow them on Instagram and Facebook @yippeeyardcards.

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.

Waves, Flags and Fun

Wellness Watch with Meghan Schultzel.

AS THE SUN BLAZES over the Jersey Shore, the Manasquan Junior Lifeguards program is gearing up for another summer of surf, sand and safety. Led by Brent Shibla, a beloved Manasquan High School teacher and Asbury Park DJ, this iconic program has been a coastal staple since its early days as one of the first junior lifeguard programs in the region. With a history stretching back decades, it’s no surprise that Manasquan’s shores are alive with the energy of young lifeguards-intraining, ready to dive into a summer of adventure.

Shibla, who first joined the program as a 7-year-old, knows the magic of Junior Lifeguards firsthand. “When I was a kid, it was chill—

hanging with friends, playing with lifeguard gear and learning the ropes of beach safety,” he recalls. After lifeguarding in 2001 and instructing toward the end of college, Shibla took the helm in 2013. His approach? Keep it fun, foster friendships and weave in critical safety skills. “Kids want to play with their buddies and mess around with paddleboards, but they’re also learning what to do in a rip current or how to help someone in trouble.”

This year’s program, running from June 30 to July 25, splits into two groups to cater to different vibes. The non-competitive group, for ages 6 to 13, focuses on fun and fundamentals—think splashing around, mastering water confidence

HOW TO PLAY BEACH FLAGS (HOSE CHASE)

1. Setup:

• A series of “flags” (typically short lengths of hosepipe, sticks or any small objects) are stuck into the sand in a row. There should always be fewer flags than players (e.g., one less flag than the number of participants, just like chairs in Musical Chairs.)

• Competitors line up face-down in the sand, facing away from the flags, about 20 meters away.

2. Gameplay:

• On a starting signal (like a whistle, horn or someone shouting “Go!”) players jump up, turn around and sprint to grab one of the flags.

• Since there are fewer flags than players, one or more players will miss out and be eliminated from the round.

• After each round, one flag is removed, and the process repeats until only one player remains: the winner.

3. Rules:

• Players must stay still until the starting signal. Moving early (a false start) can lead to elimination.

• The game emphasizes speed, agility and strategy, as players may need to outmaneuver others to secure a flag.

and soaking up the beach life. The competitive group, for ages 9 to 13, kicks it up a notch with events like distance runs, swims, paddleboarding and the fan-favorite beach flags: a highenergy game akin to musical chairs that’s the talk of the summer. “Beach flags is the highlight,” Shibla says. “Kids go wild for it!”

Competitive participants can also test their skills at regional tournaments in Spring Lake (July 8), Long Branch (July 10), Belmar July 17), Ocean Grove (July 22) and Manasquan (July 24), culminating in a celebratory breakfast party.

The schedule accommodates all levels: Competitive C’s (9 to 11) and B’s (12 to 13) train alongside noncompetitive groups, while Little

Guards (6 to 8) focus on water comfort and fun. Sessions run Monday, Tuesday and Friday (except July 4) from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. with specific times for each group. Safety is the backbone, but Shibla, who teaches AP Microeconomics and U.S. History by day and spins records by night, ensures stress stays off the beach. “I want kids to leave smiling, not stressed.”

For details, follow Manasquan Junior Guards on Instagram @squanjrguards or our friends in Sea Girt @sgjuniorgaurds.

As summer crests, Manasquan Junior Lifeguards promises a tidal wave of excitement where kids make memories, build skills and ride the wave of Jersey Shore fun. Get ready to dive in. The beach is calling!

WELLNESS WATCH SUMMER CALENDAR

When: Wednesdays, 6 a.m. What: A Balanced Body Personal Training Where: Manasquan High School Field House Register: Manasquan Community Pass

When: Tuesdays, 7:30 a.m.

What: Yoga with Colleen McCrone Where: Manasquan Community Center Register: Manasquan Community Pass

When: Wednesdays & Fridays, July to August

What: Pilates on the Beach Where: Pompano Avenue Beach Register: Manasquan Community Pass

When: Manasquan Ocean Mile & Half-Mile Swim Where: Sea Watch Beach Register: raceforum.com

When: August 30, 8 a.m.

What: Belmar 5 Mile Run Where: Belmar Register: runsignup.com

When: September 6

What: Brielle Day Hill & Dale 10K Challenge Where: Brielle Register: runsignup.com

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.

BOOK NOOK

Hot Books for a Hot Summer!

It’s time to grab your beach bag and fill it with all the essentials—towel, sunscreen and, of course, your perfect summer beach read. Read on for a few of my recent favorites.

BY LEIGH MALLIN

ALL THE OTHER MOTHERS HATE ME

by Sarah Harman

This is a no-brainer of a book, for two reasons: Because it doesn’t require deep thought and also because it should be your must-read book this summer. Florence is not like the other mothers at her son Alfie’s elite private school; she’s a has-been pop star who is now single and broke with zero career prospects. However, when Alfie becomes a suspect in a classmate’s disappearance, Florence will stop at nothing to protect her son. A darkly hilarious page turner with very unlikeable characters that I rooted for nonetheless!

WILD DARK SHORE

Charlotte McConaghy

Top book of 2025 alert! A stunning and haunting portrait of our not-sodistant future. The Salt family are the caretakers of Shearwater, an island of the coast of Antarctica and home to the largest seed bank in the world. When a mysterious woman washes ashore, their lives are disrupted by the mystery of who she is and why she’s there. The writing here is simply beautiful. I loved these characters and

their mission. Their love of the land and for each other blew me away. And now, I’m obsessed with everything this author has written. Full five stars!

GREENWHICH

by Kate Broad

Teenage Rachel Fiske is sent to live with her wealthy aunt and uncle in Greenwich, Connecticut during the summer of 1999. At first, she feels disconnected, and spends most of her time with her young cousin and the family’s live-in nanny. When a tragic accident occurs, Rachel is forced to make a decision that will impact the course of all their lives. This riveting debut is equal parts intense, infuriating, thought-provoking and heartbreaking. This might sound like a contradiction, but I felt like this novel was as fast-paced as it was a slow burn, delving into themes of race, class, power, sexuality and family. Once I finished a chapter, I had to read another. (Publishing July 22)

GREAT BIG BEAUTIFUL LIFE

by Emily Henry

I am typically not a huge rom-com reader, but there isn’t an Emily Henry book that I won’t pick up. Her books

are heartwarming, touching and sexy as hell. In my opinion, this one has a different vibe than her previous works; it felt reminiscent of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo in that there is a nice twist towards the end that I didn’t see coming. To be honest, I wasn’t sure if Henry would be able to pull this story off, but the ending is perfect. Everything comes together in a way that brought a tear to my eye. Em Hen just gets better and better.

SKY DADDY

by Kate Folk

Weird girl fiction lovers rejoice!

Please do not let the unusual synopsis of this book deter you from picking it up! I loved it. Yes, it’s totally bizarre. Yes, Linda’s lust for planes is “out there” (pun intended), but she is so likable. The whole novel is so delightfully strange and poignantly hysterical that I couldn’t help but immerse myself in its creativity. Sky Daddy is a book about embracing our freak flags, because let’s face it— we all have them!

Leigh Mallin is a bookseller at BookTowne.

JULY BRINGS the return of the Belmar New Jersey Sandcastle Contest, which draws hundreds of sculptors and spectators from across the Garden State and beyond. The contest offers first, second and third prizes across a variety of age groups and categories. Registration is free but beach space is always a hot commodity, so arrive early and don’t forget the sunblock. Seen here is last year’s winner in the contest’s Family Competition, titled “Chomp.” (Rumor has it that the mayor of Belmar unsuccessfully lobbied to have this entry re-titled “Boating Accident.”)