Spring Lake July 2026

Spring Lake JULY 2026

ALSO SERVING SEA GIRT

SEA GIRT’S UNSUNG HEROES

THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS

PLAY FOR ALL

DIVINE PARK’S NEW PLAYGROUND

Let’s Celebrate!

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As we gather this Independence Day, take a moment to reflect on the true meaning of the holiday. The freedom we enjoy to build our lives and the opportunity to own a piece of this beautiful land is a direct gift from those who have served and sacrificed for our country.

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Contents JULY 2026

20 F EATU RES

16

The Pillars of Sea Girt

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.

I N TH I S I S SUE

26

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

12

BOOK NOOK Summer Books Worth Savoring

32

PHOTO OP Blooming for Summer

16

COVER

8

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.

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NOW OPEN!

306 B Morris Avenue, Spring Lake, NJ

KITCHENS & INTERIORS townandcountrydesignstudio.com | Red Bank, NJ | 732.345.1441 TownandCountry_FP_SPL_cvr_0726.indd 1

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PUB LISH E R’S NOTE

Spring Lake MAGAZINE

Publisher and Editor Brynn Coleman Brynn.Coleman@wainscotmedia.com Lead Writer and Editorial Coordinator Danielle Kutcher

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

PHOTOGRAPH BY MICHELLE WOLFE

J

LET’S CELEBRATE!

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,

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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

Brynn Coleman Publisher

Print Production Manager Fern Meshulam Advertising Production Associate Griff Dowden

springlakemagazine.com @springlakemagazine

Have a story idea?

4 | SPRING LAKE

Editorial Intern Kylie Aprilante

Email the publisher: Brynn.Coleman@wainscotmedia.com.

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.

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We Weren’t Always Real Estate Professionals AN ATTORNEY. A TEACHER. A MARKETING STRATEGIST

Today we’re The Skea Team Michael Skea, Broker Associate Real Estate & Land Use Attorney

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.

Cell 732.272.5898 | Office 732.449.3322 | mskea@wardwightsir.com

Moira Jones, Sales Associate

Tenured English Teacher

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.

Cell 908.489.8809 | Office 732.449.3322 | moiraskea@wardwightsir.com

Matthew Skea, Sales Associate

Digital Marketing and Data Analytics Professional 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.

Cell 732.403.5363 | Office 732.449.3322 | matthewskea@wardwightsir.com

A multi-generational perspective. A multifaceted skill set. One client-centered vision, delivering exceptional results in every market.

We are The Skea Team

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DIRECTORY OF SPONSORS Many thanks to our committed sponsors, who make it possible for us to bring you high-quality local stories each month. Shopping and doing business close to home are excellent ways to support our community.

When you visit our sponsors, please tell them Spring Lake Magazine sent you!

Design Line Kitchens

Custom Kitchens & Fine Cabinetry Since 1976, Design Line Kitchens has crafted luxury custom kitchens and built-in cabinetry tailored to each home. From design to installation, our Sea Girt team delivers exceptional quality and timeless style.

732-449-6760 | DesignLineKitchens.com info@designlinekitchens.com @designlinekitchens

Charlie’s of Bay Head & Charlie’s of Lincroft

Charlie’s Restaurants, including Charlie’s of Lincroft and Charlie’s of Bay Head, are renowned for their award-winning Contemporary American Cuisine that has won high praise from guests and critics alike. Both locations offer an exquisite settingLincroft featuring a casual yet elegant ambiance and decor, while Bay Head enhances the classic dining experience with its setting on Twilight Lake- paired with mouth-watering cuisine and steadfast service.

Charlie’s of Bay Head: 732-295-1110 | @charliesofbayhead Charlie’s of Lincroft: 732-812-4500 | @charliesoflincroft

Denise Dreyer

Ward Wight Sotheby’s International Realty, Sea Girt Denise Dreyer is one of the top agent of the Jersey Shore—just ask the clients that she helps guide through one of the biggest milestones of their lives. Exemplifying excellence in service, marketing, and creative solutions. She consistently ranks as the Company Top Producer, an accolade that she has received in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2023, and 2024.

201-819-2604 | denisedreyer.com ddreyer@wardwightsir.com @denisedreyerrealestate

John C. Tassini, Esq. Maxwell, Tassini & Gardner, LLC

Platinum Dental Group

Quality Dental Care for the Entire Family We offer quality dental care to meet the oral health needs of your entire family. Our services include preventive treatment, restorative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry procedures, and emergency dentistry services. We also offer Invisalign clear aligners for those who want to discreetly straighten their teeth.

732-385-8466 www.platinumdentalgroup.com/platinum-dental-sea-girt

Town and Country Design Studio

Comprehensive design and project management from concept through installation As creative designers and skilled technicians, we offer a holistic, detail-oriented approach. We expertly select materials that look and feel beautiful, backed by a deep understanding of construction and the practicalities that bring our vision to life.

732-345-1441 townandcountrydesignstudio.com @townandcountrydesignstudio

The Skea Team

Michael Skea, Matthew Skea and Moira Skea Jones The Skea Team delivers strategic, datadriven guidance with elevated marketing and multigenerational insight, helping clients navigate the Jersey Shore market with confidence and precision.

732-272-5898 @michaelskearealtor skeateam@wardwightsir.com

Palm Place

A Lilly Pulitzer Signature Store.

Located just over a mile from the beach in Sea Girt, NJ. In addition to our Lilly Pulitzer selection we also offer fine leather goods by Smathers and Branson.

Home to the custom NJ Smith & Quinn print.

732-223-1655 palmplacenj.com @palmplacenj

Wills, Trusts & Estates: Planning and Administration

John C. Tassini, Esq.

Maxwell, Tassini & Gardner, LLC Your Spring Lake attorney for thoughtful estate planning, smooth and efficient estate administration, and peace of mind for you and your family.

732-230-5003 mtglawyers.com jct@mtglawyers.com

Fitness Lifestyles Inc.

Fitness Lifestyles offers premium fitness equipment, outdoor furniture, umbrellas, and grills for homes and commercial spaces, with 10,000+ sf showroom, delivery, installation, service, repairs, in-home consultations, proudly family-owned since 1984.

732-775-1630 fitnesslifestyles.com liz@fitnesslifestyles.com

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INTERESTED IN

SPONSORING WITH

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 springlaketheatre.com @springlaketheatre

OUTDOOR FURNITURE THAT LASTS!

SPRING LAKE MAGAZINE? CONTACT BRYNN COLEMAN (brynn.coleman@wainscotmedia.com) to place your ad and reach thousands of readers in the borough.

OUTDOOR DINING - DEEP SEATING TUUCI UMBRELLAS - GRILLS - AND MORE

Visit our 10,000 sf showroom to see the best of the best FREE IN-HOME DESIGN

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AROUND TOWN

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

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.

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.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHAEL SCOTTO AND VINNIE DICKS

HISTORICAL LECTURE AT SPRING LAKE COMMUNITY HOUSE

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AROUND TOWN

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.

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.

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HOME | GIFT | LIFESTYLE

306 Morris Avenue | Spring Lake, New Jersey

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LI FE OUT DO OR S

Paddle On

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.

Right: Paddle Out Manasquan, owned by Andy 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.

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF PADDLE OUT MANASQUAN

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

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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

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.

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.

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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

T

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T

THEY 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.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHELLE WOLFE

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

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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

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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.”

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

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.”

JULY 2026 |

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A

Play for All Children of all abilities can enjoy the newly designed inclusive playground, Divine Park, in Spring Lake.

BY DANIELLE KUTCHER

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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

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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.

MRC Recreation’s rendering of the new playground at Divine Park.

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

PHOTOGRAPHS BY RYAN STEWART, LAUREN HEINE

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.

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Playground designer, Ryan Stewart and his son, enjoying the new features of the park.

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

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

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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.

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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.

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.

“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.

JULY 2026 |

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