Spring Lake March 2025

Spring Lake

March 2025

Also Serving Sea Girt

SKIING SENSATION

MIKEY O’HEARN

JOYS OF BIRDING

CONNECT WITH NATURE IN TOWN

Sweet Indulgences Dune Donuts

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Welcome Welcome to to our our Town!

Town!

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MARCH 2025

Contents

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8 F E AT U R ES

12 The Artistic World of Caitlin Accurso

Artist Caitlin Accurso gives us a look into her creative process, from crafting paintings and resin projects to writing children’s books.

16 Hooked on Birding

The popular pastime of birding has captivated Spring Lake and Sea Girt residents for years.

IN EVE RY ISSU E

4 Publisher’s Note CHANGING SEASONS 6 Local Tastes ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP 8 Giving Back INTERFAITH NEIGHBORS 28 Better Health HEART HEALTH 30 Book Nook THUNDER ROAD BOOKS 32 Photo Op THE MAGIC OF WINTER

20 Skiing With Purpose

World-class alpine skier Mikey O’Hearn shares a message of determination, grit and passion while hitting the slopes.

24 Sweet Indulgences at Dune Donuts Step inside a world of tasty treats with Dune Donuts owner Shante Hodges.

ON TH E COVE R

Shante Hodges, owner of Dune Donuts, poses with an employee outside of her shop.

PHOTOGRAPH BY MICHELLE WOLFE

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Denise Dreyer REALTOR® Associate GRI, ABR, SRS, SRES

MONMOUTH COUNTY’S

ELITE TOP REAL ESTATE AGENTS

2024

Ward Wight Sotheby’s International Realty | Sea Girt Company Top Producer 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2023

2023 Top Producing Agent in Sea Girt* NJ REALTORS® Circle of Excellence Platinum Sales Award ® NJ’s Top Realtors by Real Trends

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Introducing... A Nature Lover’s Dream

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Any and all possibilities exist on this amazing property!

For more information or to schedule a private tour please call Denise Dreyer at 201.819.2604 or 732.449.5959 (Office)

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Publisher’s Note Spring Lake

PHOTOGRAPH BY MICHELLE WOLFE

like the Belmar-Lake Como St. Patrick’s Day Parade; one of the first outdoor events of the season.

Every year, it’s a toss-up whether full winter gear is needed or if a T-shirt under your Irish sweater will suffice. This beloved tradition brings the community together in a spirited celebration where, for a day, everyone feels like part of one big Irish family. Join the fun on March 2 at 12:30 p.m. along Main Street in Lake Como and Belmar for a day of music, laughter and local pride!

In this edition, we celebrate the flavors, faces and traditions that make our community special. Step inside Dune Donuts, where owner Shante Hodges infuses passion and community spirit into every batch of fresh bagels and mini donuts.

Discover the art of birdwatching along the Jersey Shore, a peaceful pastime that’s more accessible than ever. Meet Michael O’Hearn and follow his inspiring journey to earn a spot on the US Paralympics Team. Spend time with Sea Girt artist and author Caitlin Accurso as she shares her creative world with us.

As we inch closer to warmer days, now is the perfect time to tune up your bike, dust off the sunscreen and take in the crisp blue skies that will become more abundant as the month unfolds.

Warmly,

As March rolls in, we find ourselves on the cusp of spring, a time of renewal, fresh beginnings and the long-awaited return of warmer days. Along the Jersey Shore, March carries its own unique rhythm. The quiet charm of winter is still in the air, yet signs of the changing season begin to emerge— buds on the trees, longer daylight hours and a renewed energy among our local shops, restaurants and community events.

This month is all about embracing the transition from winter to spring, and nothing marks the shift quite

Brynn Coleman Publisher

MAGAZINE

Editor & Publisher Brynn Coleman Group Publisher Jodi Bruker Writers Judith Jones-Ambrosini Danielle Kutcher Maria O’Donnell Lead Photographer and Editorial Coordinator Michelle Wolfe Photographer Vincent Dicks

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 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 2025 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

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LOCAL TASTES

Italian Wedding Soup Try out this tasty recipe for your next family gathering.

INTRO BY MARIA O’DONNELL, RECIPE BY MARIA GORDON

Maria O’Donnell, a Spring Lake mom of two and passionate food writer, can be found on Instagram @foodwritergirl.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MARIA GORDON

Spring Lake and Sea Girt are home to many talented individuals, including those who truly shine in the kitchen.

One such home cook is Maria Gordon, an Italian American and proud Spring Lake resident who finds joy in cooking from scratch for her family. Her dishes are nothing short of delicious, and she was kind enough to share a beloved classic—her Italian Wedding Soup recipe.

Despite its name, Italian Wedding Soup isn’t traditionally served at weddings. As Maria explains, the name actually comes from the “marriage” of flavors—the perfect harmony between meat and vegetables.

Originally a humble peasant dish, it was often made with whatever ingredients were on hand, allowing for endless tasty variations.

Now, she’s sharing her take on this comforting Italian classic—a recipe she grew up enjoying and now prepares for her own family.

With every spoonful, it brings warmth, tradition and a taste of home. We hope you love it as much as the Gordon family does. Enjoy!

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ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP This soup is a lot to make in one day, but if you are going to make it all in one day, you need to start early.

I find it best to do the beef stock one day and the soup the next day. This soup freezes really well, and you will also have 2 quarts of beef stock extra for your freezer.

- Maria Gordon

SERVES 8 TO 10

DIRECTIONS 1. Fill a 16 ounce stock pot with water and add your beef bones. Get this to a boil then immediately lower it to a simmer. You want to cook this on a low simmer for 6 to 8 hours. Skimming beef fat and scum periodically.

After about 90 minutes, add in your vegetables, salt and pepper. I find it easier to cook this for 4 to 6 hours one night, letting in cool, covering and storing in refrigerator overnight. The next day, I cook it the rest of the way while prepping my soup. *When your stock has about 1 hour left to cook, start the below steps 2. Baby meatballs: Take the 1.5 pound of ground beef and put it into a medium size bowl with eggs, grated cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder and breadcrumbs.

Roll out your baby meatballs to be bite sized (a little less than a tablespoon of seasoned ground beef per baby meatball). Line them up on a cookie sheet. Bake baby meatballs in preheated oven at 350 degrees for a quick 8 minutes. Store meatballs aside for now.

3. C hop onions, celery, garlic and peeled carrots.

INGREDIENTS For beef stock: • 6 beef marrow bones, 2 to 3 beef shank, 2 beef back ribs and 6 to 8 beef short ribs • 2 teaspoons salt • 2 teaspoons pepper • 6 to 8 whole peeled carrots • One bunch of trimmed washed whole celery hearts • 2 Vidalia sweet onions peeled and halved For baby meatballs: • 1.5 pounds of 80/20 ground beef • 3 eggs • 3/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese • 1 teaspoon pepper • 1 teaspoon garlic powder • 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 /4 cup of seasoned breadcrumbs • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley • 1/2 pound (approximately two bundles) Rainbow Swiss chard (can substitute regular Swiss chard or escarole) • 10 medium carrots •3 bunches or 1.5 pounds celery hearts • 8 cloves of minced garlic • 1/3 cup of passata (use brand that is imported from Italy) • 2 Vidalia sweet onions • 1 tablespoon salt • 1 teaspoon pepper • 1 /3 cup of olive oil • 1 pound of your favorite soup pasta (ditalini or acini de pepe are good choices)

4. In a 10-quart pot, heat up 1/3 cup of olive oil.

5. Sauteed onions until soft then add celery and carrots. Sauteed for approximately 10 to 15 minutes, then add garlic. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. Turn the heat off.

6. S train stock removing and discarding all vegetables, meat and bones.

Clean stock with skimmer spoon removing any stray fat bits, pieces and scum. Optional: if you want, you can blend some of the vegetables up and add them in at the end to thicken your soup.

7. A dd to stock 1 tablespoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of pepper and passata.

Remove 8 cups (2 quarts) of stock and set aside in freezer safe container.

8. Add remaining stock to your sauteed vegetables inside your pot.

9. A dd baby meatballs to the soup.

10. Bring this to a very low simmer for 30 to 45 minutes.

11. Wash and trim the stems off your Swiss chard. Rip up Swiss chard and put it in the soup. Cook for another 30 minutes. n the side, boil a small pot of water with some salt and cook the pasta.

12. O Drain the pasta and immediately run it under cold water to stop it from cooking. Put the pasta in a small container and add into soup as you serve. If you put all of the pasta in the soup, it will soak up all your stock. *IMPORTANT: Serve the soup with pasta and a hefty sprinkle of parmesan cheese.

MARCH 2025

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GIVING BACK

Greetings from Interfaith Neighbors Interfaith Neighbors is an organization giving back to the community in Monmouth County area.

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Do you ever wonder how homebound senior citizens, living alone and with no family in the area, are able to keep a nutritious meal on the table each day?

Meeting this daily challenge, along with other life hurdles faced by our neighbors, is the vital work of Interfaith Neighbors. Based in Asbury Park, and with strong ties to local towns, Interfaith Neighbors has been providing critical services to Monmouth County residents for 37 years. This non-profit organization works tirelessly to assist our most vulnerable citizens in securing life’s basic necessities, while also focusing on building healthier, more resilient communities The organization’s comprehensive approach to community engagement touches lives across generations. From

its childhood learning center to its county-wide Meals on Wheels program, homeless prevention work, urban and hydroponic farming, affordable housing initiatives and workforce training programs, Interfaith Neighbors impacts individuals ranging from infants to seniors over 100 years old.

Each day starts early at Interfaith Neighbors, as the Meals on Wheels (MOW) team begins at 5:30 a.m. preparing and delivering over 800 meals to seniors across Monmouth County who are homebound and without family to assist them. The MOW program is more than just the delivery of a nutritious meal—it also brings a personal visit, a warm smile and a quick wellness check for seniors, many of whom live alone with little

social interaction. As one of Interfaith Neighbors’ longest-running programs, MOW also ranks as one of its most costly. The organization actively seeks donations to sustain the program, particularly during the month of March as part of the national “March for Meals” initiative.

Meals on Wheels is one of Interfaith Neighbors’ cornerstone programs, but the September 2023 opening of its Early Childhood Learning Center marks its newest—and perhaps most dynamic— initiative. Located on the West Side of Asbury Park, this Montessori-inspired learning environment provides highquality childcare and education for children aged 3 months to 4 years.

By fostering early development in a nurturing space, the center aims to significantly improve the educational trajectory of its students as they transition to grade school.

Interfaith Neighbors is proud to be one of the community organizations supported by The Friends of the Spring Lake Five. Learn more about Interfaith Neighbors’ programs and mission by visiting their website at interfaithneighbors.org. You can also follow them on Facebook, Instagram @interfaith_neighbors and LinkedIn. As a non-profit organization, Interfaith Neighbors depends on public donations to continue their impactful work.

Donations can easily be made through their website or via the QR code below. The agency welcomes visitors to learn more about its programs and see firsthand the difference they are making in our community.

MARCH 2025

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ADVERTISE WITH US IN 2025!

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The Artistic World of

Caitlin Accurso

Caitlin Accurso’s creations are inspired by her life on the Jersey Shore.

BY JUDITH JONES-AMBROSINI

more than just a scenic backdrop— it’s a source of endless inspiration.

Whether she’s walking along the beach, sitting in the sand or simply watching the waves roll in, she finds beauty in every moment. Through her camera lens, she captures the rhythm of the sea—crashing waves, surfers paddling into the swells, seagulls soaring overhead and weathered lifeguards standing sentinel along the shore. Sunrises and sunsets where the sea meets the sand serve as muses for her breathtaking oil and acrylic paintings, transforming everyday coastal scenes into works of art.

One day, while strolling along the beach, Caitlin noticed two seagulls squabbling over the remains of a broken clam shell. Amused by the scene, she had an idea—one that would take her creativity in an entirely new direction. Inspired by those feisty birds, she wrote, illustrated and self-published a series of children’s books filled with playful rhymes and charming illustrations.

Her first book, “Benny at the Beach,” tells the story of Benny, a city pigeon who gets lost and unexpectedly finds himself at the shore. There, he befriends a seagull named Sam who takes him under his wing and shows him the wonders of beach life. In the sequel, “Sam in the City,” Benny returns to his urban

PHOTOGRAPHS PROVIDED BY CAITLIN ACCURSO

For Caitlin Accurso, the ocean is

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“Art is my venue of expression.

With it, I hope to inspire, educate and build community. It’s my zen.”

— Caitlin Accurso

MARCH 2025

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Caitlin shares her art and stories with students during her school visits throughout the year and art walks in the summer.

home and brings Sam along, introducing him to the sights and sounds of bustling city life. Through these heartwarming tales, Caitlin shares her love for both nature and storytelling.

A lifelong resident of the Jersey Shore, Caitlin has always been drawn to art. As a child, she loved sketching and coloring—an early passion that eventually led her to earn a Fine Arts degree from the University of Delaware.

She began painting seascapes in oil and acrylic, but after discovering a Hawaiian artist’s resin paintings, she felt inspired to explore the medium herself. Resin, a liquid that solidifies quickly, requires an artist to work with both speed and precision—something Caitlin embraced as a challenge. Through trial and error, she mastered the technique of layering resin with color and various paint mediums to recreate the mesmerizing movement of the ocean. Today, she produces exquisite resin paintings in a range of sizes, sometimes incorporating three-dimensional elements—like striped beach umbrellas—to bring her coastal scenes to life.

Yet, as she perfected her resin work, a new challenge arose: what to do with the hardened excess scraps?

Unwilling to contribute more waste to the environment, she sought a creative solution. That’s when inspiration struck—she could turn the leftover resin into jewelry. Now, Caitlin repurposes her resin runoff, transforming it into stunning, one-of-a-kind beach-inspired wearable art.

Caitlin has also found a way to involve her family in her artistic pursuits. Her husband, Joe, an engineer, constructs the frames for her paintings, while their two teenage sons, Chris and Andrew, help package jewelry and transport her artwork to galleries and shows.

Currently, Caitlin is working on a deeply personal project—a tribute to her niece, Jillian Ludwig, a talented musician and Belmont University student

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Clockwise from left: Caitlin working with resin; illustrating her book; beach inspired resin jewelry.

whose life was tragically cut short.

Caitlin envisions a mural of angel wings in Jillian’s honor and hopes to find the perfect wall, ideally in Manasquan, to bring this meaningful tribute to life.

As an artist, author, designer and entrepreneur, Caitlin is fueled by a passion for creation and connection.

“Art is my venue of expression,” she says. “With it, I hope to inspire, educate and build community. It’s my zen.”

Caitlin is also an active member of the community, serving as a trustee for Sea Girt’s Community Appeal.

To explore Caitlin’s paintings, jewelry and books, or to find out where to purchase her work, visit her website at caitlinaccurso.com. There, you’ll find a list of local shops and galleries that carry her unique creations.

Judith Jones-Abrosini is a Sea Girt resident, member of the Holly Club of Sea Girt and author of the “Sisterhood of Diabetes.”

MARCH 2025

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Hooked on Birding

How a chance encounter at the Manasquan Inlet sparked a passion.

BY VINCENT DICKS

On a cold January afternoon, two gentlemen sit still, peering through spotting scopes on the Spring Lake boardwalk. They have driven all the way from Philadelphia to see arctic waterfowl.

They spot the Atlantic Brant, Common Goldeneye, a Bufflehead and various species of Scaup ducks. They are in a debate about the markings of the Scaups they see. This is the pastime of birding.

The Birding Bug Patti Piazza of Wall Township, formerly of Spring Lake, caught the birding bug on New Year’s Eve 2020.

“It was COVID, and outdoor activities were being encouraged. I went for a walk.

I clamored over the rocks to the end of the Manasquan Inlet, and there were people spotting birds. I thought, oh, they are just the mallards we see here all the time. I thought a duck is a duck. But then they showed me all the different types, and I was hooked,” she said.

“Now I rarely go out without my binoculars or my Sibley’s Guide,” Piazza continued. “It’s a wonderful activity. Most birders are friendly and conversational which helps new people learn the ropes.”

Piazza volunteers at Sandy Hook as a Shorebird Ambassador for the National Park Service, which allows her to spot many species that frequent the Atlantic flyway, and she helps protect the nests

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of threatened or endangered species.

She is also on the Seal Education team, which provides park visitors with a safe and informative experience viewing seals without disturbing their vitally important “Haul Out” resting periods.

AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHER WITH CHICK BY MICHAEL CASSELLA; OSPREY AND YELLOW CROWNED NIGHT HERON BY PATTI PIAZZA

A Long History Birding has a long tradition. The Audubon Society was founded in the late 1800s in the name of John Audubon, writer and illustrator of the first comprehensive guide, “Birds of America.” It was started by women protesting the killing of birds for hat plumage. Their initial goal was to end the wholesale slaughter of birds which was all too common in the late 1800s.

In addition to changing their headwear, the organization raised awareness regarding the worst day of the year for birds: Christmas. The traditional Christmas bird hunt was a contest of shooting skills.

MARCH 2025

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Clockwise from top left: Chipping Sparrow by Patti Piazza; Scarlet Tanger by Patti Piazza; Bald Eagle by Michael Cassella.

Parties of men would hunt birds during their southern migration, felling hundreds, and the shooter whose hunting pouch weighed the most was declared the winner.

The birds were rarely used for food or plumage, simply for sport.

The society proposed an alternate contest, a tradition of bird counts, as the hunts had been effective in nearly emptying the skies. Watchers counted the different types of birds they saw. Over time, the Society developed a practice of helping to shepherd forests and other habitats for birds to help restore their numbers.

The hobby became a year-round passion.

47 million people count themselves as birders. Fall and spring migratory patterns keep the species changing. Each birder keeps a list of every species of they have seen, both in the current year and in their lifetime.

Birders like Piazza carry binoculars, ornithologist David Sibley’s guidebooks, plus her annual and lifetime checklists. The guides help birders identify each species, with details on feather variety during the year, gender and adult vs, juvenile birds.

Sibley, originally from Connecticut, grew up following his father, also an orchidologist. He began sketching birds as a seven-year-old in Cape May in the 1960s.

Birders learn the songs, nesting habits and mating schedules to help them.

When asked about her most impressive sighting, Piazza noted, “The snowy owl is the holy grail around here for most birders. They migrate from the Arctic in

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the winter and hide in the dunes and coastal woodland. They are shy and very wary. I saw one at Sandy Hook when I first got into the hobby and really did not appreciate the rarity of the find. This winter is predicted to be an irruption year, and I’m hoping to see another one.”

Piazza explained that under the right conditions of temperature and food supply, the number of owls erupts or jumps dramatically.

Birders help each other. “Social media helps,” Piazza said. “The community is very cooperative in helping other birders find the species they are looking for.

But the one thing they will not disclose is the location of owls. The unwanted attention would put stress on the animal and chase it off.”

Getting Started The hobby is easy to get started in. Many of our birds are not as shy or can be seen from a distance. Swans, osprey, bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, black vultures, egrets and blue herons are just a few of the larger birds our area supports. Shorebirds are abundant. Songbirds nesting in the treetops are easier to see once they set up house and are caring for the young.

People also plant or set out attractors for songbirds and hummingbirds.

The average hobbyist bird watcher will record around 110 different species in a year, while a professional might record 225. Yes, there are professionals: Some are ornithologists, others guide for

other bird watchers or photographers.

The New Jersey Audubon Society sponsors The World Series of Birding each year. In a single 24-hour period in May, teams, usually of six, travel the state, often sighting a year’s worth of species before the day is over.

Some teams have sponsors. 95% of the birds need to be seen or heard by the whole team and documented to count when the contest ends in Cape May at midnight.

Community But walking alone enough for Piazza.

“It is very peaceful. Some people do it in groups, but I prefer to be more solitary. The songbirds are skittish and fly away at the smallest noise or movement. This area is wonderful for birding. We not only have the coast, but we have abundant woodlands and open fields, all of which are habitats for different types of birds,” she said.

The birders on the boardwalk don’t see the Dovekie, also known as the Little Auk, a bird related to the puffin that rarely comes to shore, except for its home in rocky, arctic cliffs.

“The nor’easters sometimes blow them in from out in the ocean,” she said. “We have not had a storm recently. We’ll be back and maybe get them next time.”

Vincent Dicks is a local author and historian; visit vincentdicks.com to learn more.

Clockwise from top left: Snowy Owl by Michael Cassella; Birders on the boardwalk by Vincent Dicks; Tree Swallow by Patti Piazza.

MARCH 2025

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Skiing With

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Mikey O’Hearn takes to the slopes and to share his message of grit, resilience and determination to overcome life’s adversity.

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF O’HEARN FAMILY

BY MARIA O’DONNELL

Michael “Mikey” O’Hearn, a thirdgeneration Spring Lake native, comes from one of the town’s most beloved families. His mother is one of six children of the late Dr. Michael James Cahill, a highly respected and cherished pediatrician who served the Jersey Shore community for over 40 years (and was even my husband’s pediatrician!). Michael has carried forward his family’s legacy with incredible determination and resilience.

Born with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita—a condition that causes joint contractures and stiffened muscles throughout his limbs—Michael has undergone countless surgeries and relies on walkers, wheelchairs and daily leg orthotics. Yet, he has never let these challenges define him. Today, at just 23 years old, Michael is a champion adaptive alpine ski racer, hitting speeds over 75 mph with skill and precision honed through years of dedication.

Michael’s journey into skiing began at the age of two. Watching other kids play sports, his parents sought opportunities for him to participate, and his great-aunt recommended the Adaptive Sports Foundation in Windham, New York. From the moment Michael was placed on skis, he felt at home. In fact, he

skied before he could walk. Skiing became his sanctuary—a place where he could thrive, not despite his disability, but empowered by it.

Michael’s passion for the sport only grew as he trained at the Adaptive Sports Foundation every weekend with his father driving him back and forth. Eventually, he transitioned to competitive ski racing, joining the International Ski and Snowboard Federation’s Paralympic circuit. These competitions are as rigorous as the Olympic games, requiring intense training and qualifications.

Now living in Utah, Michael recently graduated from Westminster University and is part of the high-performance alpine ski racing team at the National Ability Center (NAC).

Many of the United States Paralympic team athletes are selected from the NAC, and Michael is working tirelessly to earn a spot.

His training involves five days a week of speed and technical drills, running gates and competing in domestic and international races to improve his world ranking.

Michael is currently ranked 38th in the world in Super-G, 52nd in Slalom and 53rd in Giant Slalom. He also serves as a role model for adaptive athletes worldwide.

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Mikey, who started skiing at the age of two, is known as a leader and a gamechanger. “Ski racing is how I lead and represent defiance and tenacity.”

In 2018, as a USA Paralympic Ambassador, he traveled to South Korea to teach youth skiing, sharing the joy of the sport and witnessing the excitement of students as they skied for the first time.

Michael’s impact extends beyond the slopes. At 17, he joined an expedition with No Barriers USA, led by Erik Weihenmayer, the first blind person to summit Mount Everest. During their 15day trek in Nepal, hiking the Himalayan mountains and visiting Buddhist temples, Michael experienced a transformative moment. Surrounded by acceptance and encouragement, he embraced his identity as a gay man, finding peace and joy in being fully himself.

Michael’s journey is a testament to resilience, courage and embracing one’s

uniqueness. He describes his mission as more than athletic achievement: “Ski racing is how I lead and represent defiance and tenacity. It’s about transforming perceived limitations into opportunities for greatness,” he says.

Off the slopes, Michael is a motivational speaker, sharing his story at conferences, galas and corporate events, inspiring others to overcome their struggles with determination and purpose. He emphasizes that “physical tribulations don’t transmute into physical limitations but transpire with determination into victory.”

Michael’s biggest challenge now is funding. Like many adaptive athletes, he relies on sponsorships and fundraising to cover the high costs of custom equipment, specialized coaching, training and travel.

Balancing the financial demands of his sport with his full-time training is no small feat. Yet, Michael faces these obstacles the same way he tackles life: with grit, confidence and the belief that he can carve his own path.

For Michael, skiing represents freedom and empowerment. “Skiing is my anatomical freedom—a place where my scars and carbon-style leg braces transform into tools of strength and resiliency,” he says. As he continues to defy the odds, Michael is inspiring countless others to pursue their passions, no matter the challenges they face.

Maria O’Donnell is a passionate food and wine writer who lives in Spring Lake with her husband and two children. She can be found @foodwritergirl on Instagram and @cookingwithmariaon Facebook.

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Donations for a Good Cause Help support Mikey on his journey to the Paralympics!

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Sweet Indulgences at Dune Donuts Stop in for a visit at this local treat shop and delight in donuts galore.

BY DANIELLE KUTCHER

Picture this: A crisp morning stroll down 3rd Avenue in Spring Lake and the irresistible aroma of fresh bagels and donuts filling the air. You follow your nose to Dune Donuts, where owner Shante Hodges greets you with a warm smile, ready to serve up delicious, handcrafted treats.

Shante Hodges started as the head grill chef and manager in 2019 and took over ownership in 2023.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHELLE WOLFE

A Dream Realized Shante’s journey to ownership began in culinary school, followed by a decade in the food industry, where she honed her skills in anticipation of an opportunity like this. In 2019, she joined Dune Donuts as the head grill chef and manager, working closely with the previous owners. Knowing her aspirations, they mentored her, encouraging her dream of one day running her own shop.

When the time came for them to retire, Shante was ready. With years of experience, a strong work ethic and an unwavering passion for food and hospitality, she seized the opportunity and took over the beloved Spring Lake local staple.

A Community-Centered Approach For Shante, one of the most rewarding aspects of her work is the connection she has built with her customers.

Whether remembering a name or a go-to order, she adds a personal

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CUSTOMER FAVORITES: Top-Selling Donuts •F ruity Pebbles • Oreo •S trawberry Shortcake •A pple Crumb •C innamon Sugar Most Popular Sandwiches •P ork Roll, Egg and Cheese—a Jersey classic!

•T he Beached Whale— three eggs, four slices of pork roll, three slices of bacon, three slices of cheese, topped with a hash brown patty.

•T he Boardwalk Burrito— three eggs, choice of meat, peppers, onions, cheese, hot sauce and choice of wrap.

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touch to every visit. She also gives back to the Spring Lake community through donations, gift cards, donut tokens and— perhaps the sweetest gesture of all—free samples of her famous mini donuts.

Committed to reducing waste, Shante ensures that no food goes unused. “At the end of the day, if there are leftover donuts, I pass them out to neighboring stores,” she shares. Even lucky passersby walking their dogs have been surprised with an unexpected box of donuts.

Her greatest inspiration?

The loyal customers who appreciate what she does.

“I love when people tell me they’re glad we’re open early and that we have the best bagels and donuts in town!” she says. To ensure quality, Shante sources highquality ingredients and supports local suppliers whenever possible.

More Than Just a Donut Shop Can’t make it to the shop? No problem!

Dune Donuts’ “Dune Buggy” delivers around Spring Lake and to cross streets along the beach, making it easy to enjoy their delicious offerings from the comfort of home or the Shore.

Dune Donuts has something for everyone. Sink your teeth into New Jersey’s favorite breakfast sandwich, a Pork Roll, Egg and Cheese on a freshly made bagel (salt, pepper and ketchup optional!). Try one of their house-made cream cheese spreads or grab a dozen bagels to go. Options range from classic Cinnamon Raisin to Whole Wheat Everything.

Not in the mood for a bagel? Dune Donuts’ famous mini donuts are a musttry. Their seasonal

varieties add a festive flair, with pastelcolored glazes, springtime sprinkles and fruity flavors like strawberry and lemon.

Around St. Patrick’s Day, you might even find a mischievous leprechaun or two decorating these bite-sized delights!

These mini donuts are as beautiful as they are delicious, with their soft, fluffy texture and perfect balance of sweetness.

They’re the ultimate indulgence— without the guilt.

A True Spring Lake Gem Dune Donuts is more than just a bakery—it’s a beloved part of the Spring Lake community. Shante and her team pour their hearts into every batch of bagels and donuts, and it shows. Whether you’re a longtime local or just passing through, a visit to Dune Donuts is always a treat.

Dune Donuts is open for breakfast and lunch Wednesday through Monday, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visit them at 1408 3rd Ave., Spring Lake, at Dunedonuts.com or call 732-359-8000.

Danielle Kutcher is a local mom of three and retired elementary school teacher. She enjoys reading, theatre and adventures with her family.

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BETTER HEALTH

Keys to a

Healthier Heart For American Heart Month, know the signs of a heart attack—and how to prevent one.

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Heart disease can be insidious,

creeping up slowly and seemingly without warning. Often it can be “silent,” too, with no obvious symptoms until a crisis or emergency—like a heart attack—strikes.

The American Heart Association (AHA) notes that heart attacks often involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back. They can also feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.

But other symptoms can also indicate a heart attack. These include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, or the back, neck, jaw or stomach. Shortness of breath, breaking out in a cold sweat and experiencing nausea or lightheadedness can be red flags as well.

Women in particular should pay attention to changes in how they feel, especially new-onset shortness of breath, chest area discomfort or decreased activity tolerance. Women often have atypical symptoms, and any new symptoms should be discussed with a health care provider.

February is the AHA’s American Heart Month, which is an ideal time to understand not only symptoms of heart trouble but also how you can reduce your cardiovascular risks with key steps like these.

1. MONITOR YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE.

Having elevated blood pressure can directly affect the heart, which can enlarge and weaken over time if blood pressure is not controlled. Normal blood pressure is less than 120/80. Talk with your doctor about higher numbers.

2. EAT A HEARTHEALTHY DIET.

Reduce added sugar and salt; eat a diet that contains whole grains, lean proteins and fruits and vegetables; avoid saturated fats; and reduce cholesterol. A Mediterranean diet is a healthy option to consider.

3. AVOID OVEREATING.

In addition to causing weight gain, eating heavy meals and large portions causes your body to work overtime and increases your heart rate. Fatty meals are particularly taxing.

4. EXERCISE. Take

a brisk walk, ride a bike, swim, dance—just get moving, and aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day, incorporating strength training twice a week. Exercise is essential for overall good health, helping with weight loss/control, lowering blood pressure, improving oxygen flow to muscles and decreasing emotional stress.

5. QUIT SMOKING. After

one year, your risk of developing heart disease will be cut by half.

6. MANAGE STRESS. Stress

can have a profound effect on your heart health by inducing the release of stress hormones that in turn can cause an increase in blood pressure and injury to the inner layer of your heart vessels (endothelium)—factors that can contribute to a heart attack. Yoga and meditation are just two things that can help you manage stress. Speak to your doctor about other options.

WARNING SIGNS OF A HEART ATTACK The American Heart Association lists a number of common warning signs of a heart attack. There is overlap in symptoms experienced by men and women, but women often have some symptoms that can be different or subtle, or may be attributed to just aches and pains, the flu or heartburn. If you think you’re having a heart attack, call 911.

Be alert for signs like these: • Chest pain or discomfort • Lightheadedness, nausea or vomiting • Jaw, neck or back pain • Discomfort or pain in the arm or shoulder • Shortness of breath • Dizziness or fainting • Cold sweats • Pain or pressure in the lower chest or upper abdomen • Indigestion

7. SLEEP WELL.

Sleep is important but it’s not just about getting enough sleep, which for most adults should range from seven to nine hours per night. Restful, restorative sleep also matters. Go to bed at about the same time every night; sleep in a cool, dark room; and turn off electronic devices such as cell phones and tablets.

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BOOK NOOK

Turning the Page Thunder Road Books shares fresh reads while preparing for a new chapter.

BY KATE CZYZEWSKI

Harlan Coben March 26th at 7 p.m. at the Spring Lake Theatre.

MY FRIENDS

by Fredrik Backman (Coming May 20) There is a reason we gasp when we know a new Fredrik Backman book is near; he continues to open our hearts, repair them and leave us remembering what can be good in the world. We may experience hardships, but without them, we wouldn’t be able to appreciate profound love. This book shares the story of four friends, whose bond is centered around art, survival and found family.

THE CORRESPONDENT

At Thunder Road Books, we know

and cherish that books truly bring the best people together. We continue to be grateful and humbled by the outpouring of support the reading community has shown us. When we began this adventure in May 2021, we didn’t know much about running an indie bookstore. We were huge fans of indies, and we loved the books and authors.

Loving the books and authors versus buying the books and running the store are two completely different things!

This beautiful community gave us love, grace and patience as we learned how to best show up for our patrons. Because of the support and love you showed us these past few years, we are able to continue growing Thunder Road Books. Come Spring 2025, Thunder Road Books will be located at 1100 3rd Ave. (previously Kate and Co). Kate and Co. has moved into our original space, 1108 3rd Ave. The larger space will give us

the opportunity to share more stories, more events and more community outreach with all of you. It is because of YOU, the readers, that this growth is possible. We thank you and we look forward to continuing to be here for you and your families!

Some Spring 2025 releases we are most excited to share with you:

NOBODY’S FOOL

by Harlan Coben (Coming March 25) A follow up to “Fool Me Once,” Sami Kierce, the unforgettable main character greets readers once again. We are thrown into Sami’s past where he wakes up, next to his dead girlfriend, covered in blood with a knife in his hand. Years later, our private investigator Kierce, sees Anna and in a split second, she vanishes. She’s alive, but how?

In true Coben fashion, a page turner from start to finish. Thunder Road Books hosts

by Virginia Evans (out April 29) There is nothing better than a novel whose character captures your heart and stays there for a while. Enter: Sybil Van Antwerp, our 73-year-old main character, who is not adjusting well to aging-but who does? In this epistolary novel, we learn about Sybil’s passions and peeves, loves and losses, friends and foes. I particularly loved Sybil’s letters to certain iconic authors.

EVERYTHING IS TUBERCULOSIS: THE HISTORY AND PERSISTENCE OF OUR DEADLIEST INFECTION

by John Green (out March 18) Inspired by an experience he had in 2019, John Green wanted to shed a light on our global health needs, equal access to treatment and awareness of preventable diseases.

Henry Reider, a young tuberculosis patient at Lakka Government Hospital in Sierra Leone met John and they formed a quick friendship. Through Henry’s experience, John shares how tuberculosis has impacted the world and what the future holds for many of us in advocacy and awareness.

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Spring Lake November 2023



Also Serving Sea Girt

SUMMER CELEBRITIES

DAN FINN & BETTY KARL

SURF FISHING

JOYS & CHALLENGES

FATHER’S MUSTACHE GIVING BACK

30 Years of Ray’s Café

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Let’s Get Social!

1316 Sea Girt Avenue, Sea Girt, NJ, 08750

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PHOTO OP

The Magic of Winter

In January, Spring Lake embraced the

magic of winter with the timeless tradition of skating on the lake. Capturing the joy and togetherness of this cherished pastime is this stunning shot by John Scotto.

Have a great image for Photo Op? Submit your high-resolution shot to brynn.coleman@wainscotmedia.com.

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Fall in love all over again.

CUSTOM CABINETRY | DESIGN SERVICES | INSTALLATION 2127 HWY 35 | SEA GIRT, NJ

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PH. 732.449.6760

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