Spring Lake
SEA GIRT’S UNSUNG HEROES
THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
PLAY FOR ALL DIVINE PARK’S NEW PLAYGROUND
as a sanctuary from the everyday world, the
invites
to wake up to panoramic ocean views framing nearly every window and door. Whether enjoying early morning coffee on the expansive porch, basking in gentle summer breezes, or watching the tide turn, the breathtaking vistas are a
The Department of Public Works is the team of unsung heroes that keeps Sea Girt running.
20 Play for All Children of all abilities can enjoy the newly designed inclusive playground, Divine Park, in Spring Lake. IN THIS
4 PUBLISHER’S NOTE Let’s Celebrate!
8 AROUND TOWN Here’s to 250!
12 LIFE OUTDOORS Paddle On
26 GIVING BACK A Transformative Project
30 BOOK NOOK Summer Books Worth Savoring
32 PHOTO OP Blooming for Summer
Sea Girt resident Mary Dougherty and her daughter, Sea Girt Councilperson Hilary Difeo, pictured with Rick Shaughnessy as George Washington at the Sea Girt 250 Celebration in May.
JLET’S CELEBRATE!
JULY IS ALWAYS the most nonstop month of the summer, packed from end to end with beach days and bike rides, ocean swims and ice cream cones, outdoor concerts and neighborhood BBQs. This July, there is something different in the air. With all the patriotic celebration surrounding America’s 250th anniversary, this
feels like it’s shaping up to be the most memorable Fourth of July of our lives. Inside, we’ll let you know how to take it all in, from fireworks on the beach to tall ships in New York Harbor. This month, we pay homage to the Department of Public Works in Sea Girt, the unsung heroes of the town. Whether they are maintaining the parks or the boardwalks or safely removing snow and ice from the roads, these guys take care of business 365 days a year. We also learn about the origins of the new inclusive playground at Divine Park in Spring Lake. The beautiful new playground features wheelchair-accessible pathways throughout, along with elements designed for imaginative and sensory play for all to enjoy.
I know that I will be milking every second out of this historic month. Enjoy your summer, I’ll see you at the beach!
Warmly,
Brynn Coleman Publisher
Spring
Lake MAGAZINE
Publisher and Editor
Brynn Coleman
Brynn.Coleman@wainscotmedia.com
Lead Writer and Editorial Coordinator
Danielle Kutcher
Editorial Intern
Kylie Aprilante
Writers
Judith Jones Ambrosini
Kylie Aprilante
Kate Czyzewski
Nicholas Kutcher
Avery Pugnetti
Photographers
Vincent Dicks
Michael Scotto
Michelle Wolfe
WAINSCOT MEDIA
Chairman
Carroll V. Dowden
President and CEO
Mark Dowden
SVP, Group Publisher
Thomas Flannery
Regional Publisher
Jodi Bruker
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
Spring Lake magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Spring Lake and Sea Girt, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Copyright 2026 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.
PHOTOGRAPH BY MICHELLE WOLFE
The Skea Team
Michael
For years, Michael represented clients in complex real estate, zoning, and land use matters. His experience at the negotiating table shaped the strategic mindset he brings to every transaction.
What the means for our clients: Skilled negation, contract expertise, risk management, and seasoned guidance through high-stakes decision.
Moira spent years helping students learn, grow, and gain confidence. Her ability to communicate clearly, listen carefully, and guide people through important life transactions remain at the center of her work today.
What the means for our clients: Exceptional communication, organization, empathy, and a steady hand throughout the buying and selling process.
Matthew’s background is rooted in understanding consumers behavior, market trends, and data driven decision making. Today, he applies those same skills to pricing, positioning, and marketing homes for maximum exposure.
What the means for our clients: Strategic marketing, market analysis, digital expertise, and modern insights that help clients make informed decisions.
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Charlie’s of Bay Head & Charlie’s of Lincroft
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John C. Tassini, Esq.
Maxwell, Tassini & Gardner, LLC
Wills, Trusts & Estates: Planning and Administration
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Spring Lake Community House & Theatre
Theatre Productions, Dance & Theatre Academy
Since 1978, the Spring Lake Community Theatre has delighted audiences with Broadway-quality musicals, comedies, and dramas, featuring lavish sets, stunning costumes and professionally talented casts. The Theatre and Dance Academy serves students from preschool through high school. 732-449-4530
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Here’s to 250!
From fireworks displays to an outdoor concert, there is so much to do this month in Spring Lake, Sea Girt, and beyond.
BY NICHOLAS KUTCHER
HISTORICAL LECTURE AT SPRING LAKE COMMUNITY HOUSE
June 29, 6 p.m.
The Dark Days of the American Revolution, as told by George Washington himself! This event is hosted by the Spring Lake Library, and sign-ups are required on springlakelibrary.org.
FIREWORKS IN MANASQUAN
July 3, 5 p.m.
Independence Day and America’s 250th Celebration Bike and Golf Cart Parade, Beach Concert, and Fireworks is an event fun for the entire family. Bring your beach chairs and blankets and settle in for a spectacular night on the beach.
NEW YORK HARBOR FROM BELMAR
June 28 to July 8
Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary on the water! Sail from Belmar Marina aboard the Jersey Girl or Miss Belmar Princess to witness the largest tall ship gathering in history, representing 20+ nations. Visit jerseyshorewhalewatchingtour. com and missbelmar.com for more information.
PHOTOGRAPHS
Shorter
Smaller
Minimal
Faster
Nationally
Collaborative,
Collaborative,
AROUND TOWN
FIREWORKS IN BELMAR
July 5, 9 p.m.
Belmar’s Independence Day celebration will be at the Taylor Pavilion and will feature free fireworks and a laser light show over the beach, with a concert and a community donation to support veterans.
UNCLE SAM PATRIOTIC PADDLE IN SPRING LAKE
July 11, 10 a.m.
Grab your paddleboard and your best patriotic gear for the Uncle Sam Patriotic Paddle at Spring Lake! Sponsored by the Spring Lake Business Improvement District, this year’s colorful sea of red, white, and blue supports the Blue Dot Community while marking America’s 250th Anniversary. Visit visitspringlake.com for information.
CONCERT AT PARKSTAGE, EAST FREEHOLD PARK SHOWGROUNDS
July 3, 4 p.m.
The Count Basie Center for the Arts, in collaboration with Monmouth County Tourism and Monmouth NJ 250, is excited to announce that Monmouth NJ 250: The Concert. The lineup includes Little Steven and the Disciples of Soul, Jake Clemons Band, Joe Grushecky and the Houserockers with Gary U.S. Bonds, and more. Tickets are available at parkstage.org and ticketmaster.com.
BIKE PARADE IN SPRING LAKE
July 4, 9 a.m.
The Woman’s Club of Spring Lake is sponsoring a Birthday Bike and Carriage Parade in Marucci Park to celebrate America’s 250th birthday. Participants are encouraged to decorate their bikes, wagons, and carriages with patriotic flair, including plenty of red, white, and blue. Contact The Woman’s Club at womansclubofspringlake.org for more information.
BIG BAND CONCERT IN SPRING LAKE
July 5, 6:30 p.m.
Join Sea Girt’s own Sentimental Journey Big Band and vocalist Altha Morton for a free patriotic concert at the Potter Park Gazebo! This special performance, America’s Swinging TwoFifty!, features classic 20th-century hits and is co-sponsored by Spring Lake Recreation and the Music Performance Trust Fund. Grab your lawn chair and come enjoy the music! For weather-related updates, visit mortonsmusicllc.com.
Paddle On
owned by
and Brian Manser, is open seven days a week and offers kayak and paddleboard rentals as well as guided tours. Visit paddleoutmanasquan.com for more info.
Inside the world of paddleboarding in Spring Lake.
BY KYLIE APRILANTE
TWICE A YEAR, the quiet Divine Park in Spring Lake transforms into an unexpected display of costumed paddleboarders. The annual “The Witches of Spring Lake Paddle for a Cause” event turns the lake into a sea of paddleboarding witches for one day every fall. On July 11, paddlers are encouraged to wear red, white, and blue or an Uncle Sam costume for the “Uncle Sam Patriotic Paddle.” These annual Spring Lake events happen every year at Divine Park and raise money for charity.
JOY ON THE WATER
While these events are organized around charity and community, paddleboarding offers more than just a themed day on the water. It’s known for its calm, lowimpact nature, and the activity has become a peaceful way for people of all ages to spend time outdoors in the summer months. While Spring Lake isn’t an
Right: Paddle Out Manasquan,
Andy
everyday paddleboarding spot, surrounding areas on the Jersey Shore offer plenty of spots for those looking to get out on the water.
Andrew Manser, owner of Paddle Out in Manasquan, says the Jersey Shore’s waterways make the area ideal for the activity.
“I’m sure anyone who enjoys being on the water knows how lucky we all are to live on the Jersey Shore, and when it comes to paddling in particular, the options are endless. We are surrounded by beautiful beaches, coves, and islands,” Manser says.
Manasquan River is a popular local spot for paddleboarding, known for its calm and steady waters that make it especially ideal for beginners. Surrounded by marinas, docks and stretches of natural shoreline, the river offers a mix of scenery that keeps paddlers interested. Many take advantage of the slow-moving sections, such as The Glimmer Glass.
The Shark River, located between Neptune and Belmar, is another go-to destination. With easy access from L Street Beach in Belmar, it’s a convenient launch point for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
Shark River offers wider and more open bodies of water, with calmer pockets closer to the shoreline. Its accessibility and variety make it a favorite for those looking to spend time on the water.
For those interested in trying paddleboarding for themselves, getting started can be a simple process. Several local outposts offer
paddleboard rentals and equipment, making it easy for beginners to get on the water without investing in their own gear.
For beginners looking to try paddleboarding, Manser emphasizes the importance of preparation and understanding local water conditions.
“If it’s your first time, make sure you know the conditions and be aware of your surroundings. A little bit of wind and current can be a really hard thing to manage if you are not familiar with the area. It doesn’t take much to feel overwhelmed, so you should be prepared with a plan and stay close to where you start,” Manser says.
As paddleboarding continues to grow in popularity along the Jersey Shore, local waterways provide opportunities for both experienced paddlers and beginners looking to spend time outdoors during the summer months.
Kylie Aprilante is a senior at Communications High School and a Spring Lake Heights resident. When she’s not at school, you can find her getting an iced coffee or watching the sunset at the beach with her friends.
Left: The Flag Island sandbar on Gull Island in Manasquan River is a popular destination that can be reached by boat, paddleboard and kayak. It is only visible during low tide, so be sure to check the tide chart before heading out.
The Pillars of Sea Girt
The Department of Public Works is the team of unsung heroes that keeps Sea Girt running.
BY JUDITH JONES AMBROSINI
TTHEY PICK UP the garbage and recycle bottles and cans. They sweep the streets, mow the grass, and mulch flower beds. They rake the beach, plow the snow, break up ice, and spread sand. They clear fallen branches after storms. They hang and water flower baskets from lampposts in summer and help transform the town into a festive wonderland at Christmas.
They set up and break down lighting and equipment for special events. They support local organizations, including the Holly Club, the Library, Recreation, and the Conservancy Committee. You might wonder who they are.
They are the Sea Girt Department of Public Works (DPW)—the group of men and one woman who work behind the scenes to keep the town running smoothly. They take great pride in the work they do.
KEEPING THE TOWN MOVING
The DPW crew is managed by Directors Mike McArthur and Trevor Palmer. Mike’s career with DPW began 28 years ago. As he notes, “I started out mulching, went on as a mechanic, then worked with water. Over the years, I have worked in just about every area of public works.” Then he goes on to explain, “The department works as a team to get all the necessary
tasks done. Sure, we have routine jobs every day, but something new always pops up to challenge us.”
Trevor, who has served the town for more than 21 years and now works alongside Mike agrees. “Every day is different. Some days present more challenges than others, but we try to take care of it all. In addition to our regular work, we help fire, police, the library, and the crossing guards.”
As crew member Thomas Strohschein puts it, “Sea Girt is a small town, and things can change day to day. Everybody in our crew
always pitches in to help.”
Gianni D’Acquisto works primarily in sanitation, a job that requires heavy lifting and endurance. “Even in the most brutal weather, we always pick up the garbage,” he says with pride.
Neil Robinson, who comes from a third-generation family of landscapers, remarks, “Tending to gardens is something I have been doing since I was 11 years old. Now, putting to use all I know, here in Public Works, gives me joy. Plus, working with a great team of guys is very fulfilling.”
Mark Rosendin, an expert in water maintenance, knows how quickly conditions can shift. “Water is something that can change fast depending on weather and other elements of nature. We work hard to face these challenges and fix problems.”
One of the most recognizable faces in town is Victor ‘Vic’ Fraternale. “I’m a people person,” he says. “I love talking to residents and getting to know them—and their dogs. I also love to sing and have a great
time performing with Sentimental Journey during their summer concerts at the library. We at DPW are a team. We work together to get everything done. It is a privilege to work in a town where people come from hundreds of miles away to enjoy their summer vacation. Our ‘office’ is the beach and the ocean. You can’t beat that.”
Besides manpower, the DPW relies on a yard full of equipment to get the jobs done: eight plows, two heavy plows, two loaders, two tractors, a mini-tractor, a skid steer, and three garbage trucks.
Inside the office, Tara Vermillion keeps the operation running. After serving 15 years in the U.S. Coast Guard, she now handles resident requests, phone calls, files, and computer work. She says she’s “happy that my ‘boys’ check in on a regular basis. Their cooperation helps get jobs done.”
MORE THAN CO-WORKERS
The Sea Girt DPW is more than a department—they’re a family. They spend time together outside of work, and some of them even played in a band together.
As Justin Macko, Borough Administrator and Chief of Police remarks “Quietly, day after day, Sea Girt DPW keeps the town running, working behind the scenes to solve problems before most even notice. Through storms, heat, and long hours, their work builds the foundation of our town that feels cared for. It’s the kind of dedication you don’t always see, but you always feel. The Borough is truly blessed to have such a dedicated DPW crew!”
Judith Jones-Abrosini is a Sea Girt resident, member of the Holly Club of Sea Girt and author of the “Sisterhood of Diabetes.”
Below: Recently, the team lost a beloved member, Bill Holt. They asked that this article be dedicated to him—a friend and co-worker they loved and deeply miss. Photograph by Vinnie Dicks
Play for All
Children of all abilities can enjoy the newly designed inclusive playground, Divine Park, in Spring Lake.
BY DANIELLE KUTCHER
A
A LONG-HELD vision for Divine Park has become a reality in Spring Lake, where a newly completed inclusive playground is now welcoming children and families of all abilities. Funded primarily through New Jersey’s Green Acres Jake’s Law Program, the project transforms the current playground into an inclusive area designed to ensure every child can have the opportunity to play.
Jake’s Law is named after Jake Cummings-Nasto, a young boy with a congenital heart condition who
enjoyed going to playgrounds for his occupational and physical therapy. The law was signed by former Governor Murphy and passed in 2018 to encourage the construction of inclusive playgrounds designed with standards exceeding those required by the Americans with Disabilities Act.
“The law encourages towns to build these completely inclusive playgrounds so that all children, including those with disabilities, can play together safely,” said Councilwoman Syd Whalley during
the planning stages of the project. “The playgrounds are designed with features such as accessible ramps, sensory-friendly equipment, and soft surfaces.”
MRC Recreation, a leader in commercial playground and design equipment located in Sea Girt, collaborated with Borough officials, residents, engineers, and advocates throughout the planning process. The goal was to create a space that takes traditional playground standards and combines them with the needs of children with varying physical, sensory, cognitive, and social abilities.
A PLAYGROUND FOR EVERYONE
Community input played a critical role in shaping the final design, particularly regarding accessibility features, parking, drop-off areas, playground circulation, and overall usability for families. One of the most notable aspects of the playground is
its designation as a PlayCore National Demonstration Site for Inclusive Play. National Demonstration Sites are recognized for creating meaningful play opportunities that encourage social interaction, independence, physical activity, and engagement among children of all abilities.
The playground was intentionally designed around the Seven Principles of Inclusive Play: being fair, included, smart, independent, safe, active, and comfortable. These guiding principles informed every aspect of the project, from equipment selection to site layout. This includes mobility-friendly surfacing, improved access points, shaded areas, and thoughtfully designed spaces that support physical and sensory needs. Many of the ideas came from the members of the Blue Dot Community, an organization that provides immersive services and events around inclusion that enhance a
MRC Recreation’s rendering of the new playground at Divine Park.
Designed for everyone: This playground’s status as a National Demonstration Site for Inclusive Play highlights its commitment to fostering independence, physical activity, and meaningful connections for all children.
sense of purpose. These members brainstormed ideas, pulling from their childhood experiences on a playground. They presented them at a Town Council meeting, where their ideas and input were valued and validated. Chrissy D’Amico, cofounder of Blue Dot Community, says, “As an occupational therapist and someone who was born and raised in Spring Lake, seeing the prioritization of accessibility and inclusion makes me so happy and proud.”
INNOVATIVE FEATURES THAT PROMOTE INCLUSIVE PLAY
Serving as the centerpiece of the playground is the Aventus Tower, one of the first fully accessible elevated tower experiences of its kind. Ryan Stewart, New Jersey Design Consultant for MRC Recreation, says, “Traditionally, elevated play structures have been difficult for many children with mobility challenges to access. The Aventus Tower allows children of all
abilities to experience the excitement of climbing to dramatic heights and exploring elevated play spaces together.”
The accessibility begins with the Sensory Wave Ramp, which integrates tactile, visual, and auditory experiences directly into the route leading into the structure. Rather than simply serving as an access point, the ramp itself becomes part of the play experience. Throughout the playground, interactive sensory components encourage exploration, creativity, and engagement. These features provide opportunities for children with a variety of sensory preferences and abilities to participate in meaningful play experiences.
Other design elements include slide transfer platforms, which allow children who use mobility devices to transfer safely onto play structures and independently enjoy slides. While less visible than some of the larger features, these platforms are considered a critical component
Playground designer, Ryan Stewart and his son, enjoying the new features of the park.
Members of the Blue Dot Community proudly stand near the new park that they had a hand in creating.
of truly inclusive playground design. The playground also features a communication board that supports children and adults who use alternative methods of communication, helping foster interaction and participation.
BUILDING CONNECTIONS
Integrated throughout the playground are numerous sensory and interactive play components designed to encourage exploration, creativity, and engagement. These experiences support children with varying sensory preferences and abilities while providing meaningful opportunities for all children to learn through play.
Motion-based play was another key focus of the project. Zero-G accessible swing seats provide support while allowing children to experience the developmental and sensory benefits of swinging. The playground’s Game-Time Expression Swing further promotes inclusion by positioning a caregiver and child face-to-face, encouraging eye contact, communication, and bonding through shared movement. Research has shown that these types of interactions can support social, emotional, and cognitive development while strengthening relationships between children and caregivers.
Another unique attraction is the Spin-With-Me spinner, a multi-generational play feature designed to bring children, parents, grandparents, siblings, and friends together. By creating opportunities for shared play experiences, the equipment reinforces one of the central goals of inclusive playground design, which is to bring people of all ages and abilities together.
Stewart emphasizes that the success of Divine Park extends beyond any single piece of
equipment. “Beyond the individual pieces of equipment, what makes Divine Park special is the overall experience it creates,” he says. “The layout encourages interaction, exploration, and shared experiences among children and families of all abilities.”
The vision and ultimate completion of this playground was a group effort. Stewart emphasizes, “We would like to recognize Syd Whalley, Brian Dempsey, the entire Spring Lake Council, Sam Avakian of Avakian Engineers, the Spring Lake Department of Public Works,
and the members of the Blue Dot Community for their dedication, support, expertise, and commitment throughout the planning and construction process. It was truly our pleasure to work alongside such an engaged and passionate group of people, and we are proud to have played a role in bringing this important project to the Borough.” Now complete, the reimagined Divine Park stands as a model for inclusive recreation, ensuring that children and families of all abilities can enjoy the benefits of play together for years to come.
A Transformative Project
Spring
Lake teen Charlie Thomas earned his Eagle Scout rank by restoring Divine Park’s natural habitat.
BY AVERY PUGNETTI
SPRING LAKE RESIDENT Charlie
Thomas, a member of local Boy Scout Troop 31, completed his Eagle Scout service project by restoring natural vegetation to Divine Park.
Charlie, a freshman at Christian Brothers Academy, has been involved in Scouting since third grade, and this project marked the final step in becoming an Eagle Scout. “I feel happy I learned so much,” Charlie says. “Honestly, looking back, it was fun. I loved leading some of my fellow Scouts to make this park better. I think that was one of my favorite parts.” For his project, Charlie had to learn about the history of the park in order to determine which plants belonged to the natural habitat. Then, after the plants were purchased and prepared for planting, he gathered a team of volunteers for the last step of his project. Charlie worked rigorously for a total of 66 hours as he researched, prepped, coordinated with the town, and planted them.
“I’ve always been fascinated with animals,” says Charlie. “When I was little, I went to Divine Park with my family and friends, and I saw that some of the beds along the waterfront were barren. So, I wanted to focus my project on restoring the natural habitat.”
To earn the Eagle Scout rank, members must plan, develop,
and lead a project that benefits religious institutions, schools, and/ or the community. Charlie organized volunteers, led fellow Scouts and community members, and even stood in front of the town council to pitch his idea and get its approval.
“One of the biggest takeaways from Scouting is being involved in the community and being able to give back,” says Charlie. “In the context of an Eagle project like this, I had the chance to do something for Spring Lake that hopefully lasts for decades and provides enjoyment for people in the park.”
Charlie expresses thanks and gratitude to the many people who helped him make the project possible. He thanks Councilwoman Syd Whalley, Scoutmaster John Sisti, Mr. Brian Dempsey, and Mr. Don Brahn for their support throughout the planning process, as well as Mr. Chris Merkler, Mr. Jason Martin, and the fellow scouts who volunteered their time to help him.
Above: Charlie Thomas, pictured with his father, Dave Thomas. Bottom left: Scouts from Spring Lake’s Troop 31 dig in at Divine Park, helping Charlie Thomas complete his Eagle Scout project by restoring native plants to the park’s waterfront beds.
Summer Books Worth Savoring
July has some much-anticipated releases from some of Thunder Road Books’ favorite storytellers!
BY KATE CZYZEWSKI
“Everything good, everything magical happens between June and August.”
―author Jenny Han
“TOP OF THE WORLD”
by Ethan Joella
The booksellers and readers at Thunder Road Books have gotten to know author Ethan Joella well over the years. He has been a guest at our book club, and his novels truly touch the hearts of his readers. This summer, he is back with “Top of the World,” a story that shares the power of sibling bonds and relationships. When Maggie graduates high school, it is a bittersweet celebration as she has recently lost her brother. During his diagnosis, he leaves home for some time, and Maggie does not know where or why. After he passes, she gets the chance to visit the place and people who cared for him in his final days. As only Ethan can write it, this is a beautiful novel and a testament to familial love.
“THE PARISIAN HEIST”
by Jo Piazza
We say this time and time again, with every Jo Piazza book: How does she do it? An author whose talent knows no bounds! She writes with such grace and precision across so many genres.
“The Parisian Heist” will sweep readers away to the time of Vincent Van Gogh. It was fascinating to learn that Jo Van Gogh is who we have to thank for Vincent’s art being appreciated by the masses. Told in alternating perspectives between Jo Van Gogh and Emma, our modernday artist struggling to make ends meet, this is truly Jo Piazza at her best!
“A REAL ANIMAL”
by Emeline Atwood
This novel follows Lucy as she navigates her twenties while grappling with the aftermath of
an assault. Her journey is raw and unflinching, capturing the complexity of trauma and its effects on every aspect of her life, but particularly her relationships. The relationships she forms throughout the story are at times predictable, vulnerable, volatile, and deeply heartbreaking. Even when her choices are difficult to read, one can’t help but stand beside her, rooting for her in spite of it all.
Caught between conflicting expectations—to be both demure and domineering—Lucy feels like someone who’s been dealt an impossibly difficult hand. Her story is unsettling, powerful, and unlike anything I’ve read before.
“DAD, LOVE ME”
by Matthew Quick
Matthew Quick is one of my favorite writers. Most famously known for his book “Silver Linings Playbook,” he’s back with “Dad Love Me,” his most personal and honest work to date. Matthew shares his story of caring for his ailing father, a father who was abusive to Matthew in his younger years. What some readers may not know is that Matthew always wanted to be a novelist, and his father often made fun of him for it and put him down. The father/son relationship found in his early work reflects some of what he experienced. Ultimately, this memoir shares forgiveness and what it means to come to terms with a parent who was unable to love in the way one deserves. I highly recommend all of his works.
Kate Czyzewski is the manager, buyer, and events coordinator for Thunder Road books in Spring Lake.
Photo by Amy Nolan
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Designer: Andrea Garone