Rob and Mo Hoffman have built Hoffman Millworks as a labor of love, a lesson for their sons, and a gift to their community. 16 The Soundtrack of Fall
From touchdown cheers to arm chops, the Manasquan High School Warrior Marching Band keeps crowds energized.
20 A Fair Shot for All
A Sea Girt couple continues to create opportunities for those less fortunate with its nonprofit organization, RallyCap Sports.
IN EVERY ISSUE
4 PUBLISHER’S NOTE
A Time to Give Thanks
6 HEALTH & WELLNESS
A Champion for All
8 LOCAL TASTES
A Taste of India
26 GIVING BACK The Gift of Goodwill
28 PARTNER CONTENT Sitting Pretty
32 PHOTO OP Honored in Art
The Hoffman family (L to R): Rob, Dean, Mo, and Bruce.
Photograph by Michelle Wolfe.
Denise Dreyer
REALTOR® Associate GRI, ABR, SRS, SRES
Ward Wight Sotheby’s International Realty | Sea Girt
Company Top Producer 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2023, 2024
2024 Top Producing Agent in Sea Girt*
NJ REALTORS® Circle of Excellence Platinum Sales Award ®
Named #3 in NJ by RealTrends Verified
*MOREMLS Sea Girt Closed Sales: All Categories 01/01/2024 - 12/31/2024
Introducing 103 Ocean Ave - Sea Girt
Rarely, an Oceanfront home in one of the most sought-after towns along the Jersey Shore becomes available! Welcome to 103 Ocean Avenue, the result of a vision to live simply but beautifully. A tranquil haven from which you can experience the escape of everyday life. As the sun rises over our magnificent Atlantic Ocean you awaken to breathtaking views from nearly every window & door. Enjoy the beautiful early morning sunrise over coffee on the outdoor porch, summer breezes, and breathtaking views. The front entry leads to four finished levels of casual elegant architecture offering fine architectural elements and well-crafted details creating a timeless environment throughout this home. This home features a living room, dining room, sitting room, kitchen, and den complemented by four bedrooms and five full baths. The observatory level provides the perfect retreat for soaking in sunrise to sunset vistas. The lower level is designed for both relaxation & entertainment featuring a spacious family room with a fireplace, custom bar and a unique grotto that adds architectural charm enhanced by a game area with a built-in ledge for drinks while enjoying a game of pool. Four full levels of living space equate to Four Seasons of sheer delight in this Serene Oceanfront Residence. A perfect gathering place for all any time of year. This home is waiting for you and family to create your ever-lasting memories!
To learn more about this amazing Oceanfront home or to schedule a private tour please contact me directly at 201.819.2604 (Cell) or 732.449.5959 (Office) or email ddreyer@wardwightsir.com.
NA TIME TO GIVE THANKS
NOVEMBER ALWAYS brings with it the universal and comforting feeling of “Homecoming.” Former students return to their high school for the big game, college students come home from school for the first time of the year, and we all do some version of coming home in our own houses. We settle in for the chiller months and plan some cozy family time for Thanksgiving. It’s a time to give thanks and to give back.
This issue celebrates just that— stories of passion, perseverance, and giving back. We spotlight Hoffman Millworks, a family tree-milling business rooted in tradition and hard work. We also feature Paul and Margo Hooker, whose vision and generosity helped give life to RallyCap Sports, proving how influence can be used for the greater good. And because fall in America wouldn’t be complete without Friday night lights, we pay tribute to the Warrior Marching Band, which provides the soundtrack for Manasquan High School’s football traditions.
As we move into the holiday season, it’s also a good time to support one another. Small Business Saturday is the perfect opportunity to show appreciation for the shops and restaurants that keep our area thriving. This is also a season for giving back through kindness, service, and community spirit.
I hope this issue inspires you to pause in gratitude, cheer a little louder for the band, shop more locally, and carry that spirit of Thanksgiving well into the holidays.
Warmly,
Brynn Coleman Publisher
Publisher and Editor
Brynn Coleman
Editorial Coordinator and Lead Writer
Danielle Kutcher
Writers:
Judith Jones Ambrosini
Vincent Dicks
Dallas Hlatky
Maria O’Donnell
Kerry Serzan
Lead Photographer
Christina Lilly
Photographer
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
Executive Editor
Elaine Quilici
Advertising Services Director
Jacquelynn Fischer
Operations Director
Catherine Rosario
Production Designer
Chris Ferrante
Print Production Manager
Fern Meshulam
Advertising Production Associate
Griff Dowden Spring
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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A Champion for All
Judith Jones Ambrosini shows support for many causes but acts out of experience when it comes to diabetes.
BY VINCENT DICKS
ANYONE
WHO MEETS
Judith Jones Ambrosini knows that she is a treasure. She has worked to keep Sea Girt beautiful for more than 30 years as a member of the Beautification Committee and the Holly Club. During the pandemic, she partnered with Sea Girt librarian Lisa Luke to collect the memories of Sea Girt residents. Just last year, she started a writers’ group for Jersey Shore-based authors and writers.
Judith’s life reads like a novel. A girl from Schenectady, New York, studies in New York City, becomes a mom in Italy, works as a fashion model, appears in a Federico Fellini
film, then lives among the artists of Greenwich Village and in a commune in Canada. She reinvents herself again as a New York caterer, a food columnist for the Coast Star, and an author. Along the way, she shares a love as vibrant as her own personality, raising a son and now delighting in her grandson. Judith has packed more into her years than most of us could imagine. Throughout most of this though, she has managed Type 1 diabetes, a condition that usually begins in childhood and requires constant care. If you spend enough time with Judith, you might hear an occasional beep—her insulin
pump singing out to her. But she refuses to be defined by the chronic disease. Instead, she dedicates herself to showing others how to live full, healthy lives with the condition.
SHEDDING
LIGHT ON DIABETES
Diabetes is one of the country’s most serious health threats, claiming a place alongside cancer, heart disease, and stroke. More than 38 million Americans live with diabetes, and millions more don’t yet know they have it. The vast majority of cases in the United States are Type 2, which is often linked to diet and lifestyle, but other types can be equally challenging. Behind every statistic is a life, and Judith has made it her mission to show that those lives should be not just managed but celebrated.
Since 1995, Judith has written articles and columns promoting an active, healthy lifestyle with diabetes. Her work has appeared in Diabetes Interview, Diabetes Positive, and Taking Control Of Your Diabetes. You can read her Cyber Kitchen column at www.diabetesnet.com.
She also enjoys celebrating the achievements of others. In her book, “The Sisterhood of Diabetes,” she shares 38 true stories of women with diabetes, detailing the challenges they have faced and the adventures they have embraced. These women, ranging in age from 5 to 95, are athletes, scholars, and champions from around the world who inspire others—diabetic or not— to redefine abilities and push past selfimposed limits.
I recently spoke with Judith about her experience with diabetes. Here, she shares some details about her personal journey:
LIVING WITH DIABETES
I have lived under the influence of Type 1 diabetes since 1962. I was a teenager when I found out I had it. I was inexplicably thirsty and losing weight. The diagnosis was shocking to me, mainly because I was told I could no longer have my favorite treat: hot fudge sundaes. I thought to myself, “Why live?” but I soon developed a strategy to make diabetes my friend. I would live my life but always carry my diabetes with me in my
back pocket. As a result, it has guided me down many winding roads and pathways, one of which has led to involvement and advocacy for empowering those with diabetes through balanced food management, sports, and exercise.
Although I am not a health professional, I consider myself a diabetes professional. I have been an active board member of the American Diabetes Association, New York Affiliate, and a Diabetes Exercise and Sports Association board member. I contribute healthy lifestyle talks to diabetics. I received the “Lilly for Life” journalism award and was chosen as a “calendar girl” for Medtronic’s Helping Hands calendar. I also have volunteered at “Children With Diabetes” conferences for over 20 years, which allows me to spend time and offer leadership to young people with diabetes.
MOVING FORWARD
Diabetes care has certainly come a long way since what we call “The Dark Ages” of diabetes care: from years of testing drops of urine for sugar in a test tube with Benedict’s solution and following the restricted “exchange diet,” which called for two graham crackers and a 4-ounce glass of skim milk as an evening snack, to today’s more
manageable, flexible, and balanced lifestyle. A broader understanding of diabetes through scientific research and developments in technology has helped people living with diabetes, be it Type 1 or Type 2, utilize tools such as insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitors, insulin pens, and even successful beta cell transplants.
The simplest way to explain good diabetes care is the mantra of balance—food, exercise, medication, and most of all attitude. Having support is also crucial. I am blessed to have that support from my husband, Danny Ambrosini. I call him my Type 3.
November is National Diabetes Awareness Month—a time dedicated to raising understanding about the disease, promoting prevention, and highlighting the support available for those affected—and Nov. 14 is recognized globally as World Diabetes Day. For additional information and trusted resources, visit www.tcoyd.org, www.childrenwithdiabetes.com, and www.diabetesnet.com.
Vincent Dicks is a local author and historian. Visit www.vincentdicks.com for more information.
Judith Jones Ambrosini, who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes as a teen, has many tales to tell. Above, she is pictured with film director Federico Fellini, whose movie she appeared in.
A Taste of India
Dan Henry brings the flavors of India home with recipes that make dinner an exceptional culinary experience.
BY MARIA O’DONNELL
PEOPLE ASK ME for restaurant recommendations all the time. But when they ask me where the best Indian food is, I always tell them, “That’s easy, my friend Dan Henry’s house.”
Everyone is always intrigued by this response because Indian food is not an easy cuisine to master, but if you’re lucky enough to snag a seat at Dan’s table when he’s cooking with his tandoor oven, I can promise you, you’ll leave a good review.
INSPIRED BY TRAVEL
Dan and his wife, Noelle, along with their two children, Sean and Kate, have
lived in Spring Lake for many years. Noelle is a Spring Lake native, born and raised in the town where her mother taught many of the residents who are here now raising their own families.
The couple has traveled the world and enjoys a variety of different cuisines. They have lived in places such as Singapore, during which they made a memorable trip to India, one of Dan’s many trips to the country. It was there that Dan first discovered his love of Indian cuisine, the myriad spices used, and the unique equipment used to create it all.
When Dan and Noelle settled their
family in Spring Lake, Dan eagerly searched around for a traditional Indian restaurant. However, at the time, he couldn’t find one that reminded him of the flavor and flair he experienced during his visits to India. That’s when he decided to try his luck at recreating the Indian food he loved on his own.
The first thing he wanted was a
Tandoori Grilled Chicken
Marinade
INGREDIENTS:
• 1¼ cups plain, full-fat yogurt
• 2 limes, juiced
• 2 tbsp. garlic paste
• 1 tbsp. ginger paste
• 1 tbsp. cumin powder
• 1 tbsp. coriander powder
• 1 tsp. turmeric powder
• 1-2 tsp. Indian red pepper or chili powder, to taste
DIRECTIONS:
Mix all ingredients in large bowl, fully submerge raw chicken, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Discard leftover marinade after removing chicken.
Grilled Chicken
INGREDIENTS:
• Marinade, see recipe
• 1½ to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, marinated for 12 to 24 hours
• Curry sauce
• Rice, optional
• Naan bread, optional
• Cilantro, for garnish
DIRECTIONS:
Grill marinated chicken on high heat until charred. Brown both sides, then add to curry sauce of your choice and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Serve over rice or with naan bread, and garnish with cilantro.
traditional tandoor oven. This made the top of his list because Dan had vivid memories of his visit to Bukhara, a famous restaurant in India where former U.S. presidents have dined. He recalled his and Noelle’s tour of the kitchen, where tandoor ovens brewed like giant caldrons with traditional Indian fare throughout the back of the restaurant. It created an impression on Dan’s culinary perspective and a roadmap for Indian cooking.
READY TO COOK
A tandoor oven resembles a large metal cylinder. It’s about 3 feet high and skewers of various meats are placed inside. Traditional naan bread is also cooked on the interior sides of the oven to accompany the meal.
Salad
It’s a classic design that requires attention and mastery to cook the meat just right.
Dan lucked out with his research and was able to score an original tandoor oven straight from India from a private individual. It has been the cornerstone of his Indian cooking ever since and a conversation piece among all his guests at his gatherings.
As Dan continues to master Indian cooking, he invites others to join in his culinary journey. Here, he shares some easy recipes of the typically intricate cuisine. They are inspired by the country that cultivated his love of exploration, and as he fondly recalls, a place incomparable to any other in the world.
INGREDIENTS:
• 1½ cucumbers, chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• ¼ medium red onion, chopped
• 1 mild green chili, deseeded and chopped
• ¼ tsp. kosher salt
• ½ tsp. cumin powder
• ¼ tsp. black pepper
• ¼ tsp. Indian red chili powder, not spicy
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Vinegar, to taste
• Olive oil, to taste
• Cilantro, chopped, for garnish
DIRECTIONS:
Mix all ingredients in a bowl and serve or refrigerate. Add other spices and seasonings to taste.
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 on Instagram @foodwritergirl and Facebook @CookingwithMaria.
Family Trees
HHOFFMAN MILLWORKS proprietors
Rob and Mo Hoffman both grew up in family businesses. Although they didn’t go on to pursue their parents’ lines of work (Hoffman’s Ice Cream and McMahon Builders), they were heavily influenced by the culture and environment that their family businesses created. So, when they fell in love, got married, and started a family of their own, starting a business together was the natural next step.
FROM SEED TO FRUITION
BY DALLAS HLATKY
In 2012, the Hoffmans had just purchased their first home and began renovations when Superstorm Sandy hit, devastating the area. “When we woke up, there were trees down everywhere, and Robert said, ‘There’s so much wood here to be used—lumber to be made,’” Mo says. “He always had [the idea of operating a mobile mill] in his mind.”
Mo had been interested in sourcing wood countertops, which were difficult to find, and the gears started turning.
In 2017, Hoffman Millworks was founded. At that point, Rob was a high school math teacher and Mo was home caring for their children. They felt it was time to pursue Rob’s idea and purchased the best portable sawmill they could get. Mo was a bit nervous to go all in on fancy equipment without experience, but she was compelled by Rob’s vision. “Mo is the supporter, the yes,” Rob says.
The couple made an agreement. Before they went public, they would spend one year learning everything they could about operating a mill. “We said we wouldn’t tell anyone we had it,” Mo says. “We rented
Rob and Mo Hoffman have built Hoffman Millworks as a labor of love, a lesson for their sons, and a gift to their community.
Mo and Rob with Bob Hoffman, Rob’s grandfather and founder of Hoffman’s Ice Cream.
land in Colts Neck. After school, Rob would teach himself how to operate the mill. After a year, we started to spread the word.”
Rob made many mistakes at the beginning. “When you pick up the mobile mill, they give you an hour demo, but after I drove home, I forgot everything,” he laughs.
Hoffman Millworks now offers on-site milling for customers. With nearly 2,000 trees milled over the past eight years, its growth has been extraordinary.
MILLING AROUND
Hoffman Millworks encompasses mobile sawmill services, as well as kiln services and lumber sales. A newly downed tree (usually old and beloved, either fallen or removed) can be milled into long, lumber-sized pieces.
When lumber is milled, it is wet and heavy and needs to be dried out first. The Hoffmans found themselves taking a “learn as you go” approach again. “A kiln and a process person backed out of letting us use their services at the last minute,” Mo says. “But in a way, we were so happy because we had to figure it all out ourselves. We built a kiln in our yard. We’d put the boys down to sleep, then lift the heavy lumber into the kiln. After the wood was dried, Rob readied it for use by processing, flattening, and surfacing it.”
According to tree experts, Monmouth County has some of the nicest trees in the country—a mix of hardwood and softwood. “Almost everything grows here except Western cedars and sequoia,” Rob says. The Hoffmans specialize in lumber made from walnut, white oak, Eastern red
and Eastern white cedar, and locust (which is better for outdoor use).
Given the richness of tree varieties in Monmouth County, the Hoffmans’ mission to promote the use of local lumber makes a lot of sense. Most commercial lumber comes from logging forests. But when lumber milled from local residential areas is used, you are reusing high-quality wood that would often otherwise end up in a woodchipper.
The Hoffmans get a lot of satisfaction in the full-circle nature of their work. Trees can last a human lifetime or more and carry great sentimental meaning to families. Someone’s grandfather may plant a tree, but it eventually reaches the point in its lifespan when it needs to come down. It can be a tough call to make, but bringing in Hoffman Millworks to mill
lumber out of that tree means the tree can live on as a shed, a bookcase, or a dining room table. Handcrafted furniture pieces become family heirlooms when they are connected to place and memory.
FAMILY MATTERS
Through their business, the Hoffmans are happy to be able to instill meaningful values in their children. “It’s important to us that our children learn process and where the lumber comes from,” Mo says. “Process is kind of gone these days. We have instant gratification. But we are humans that produce things, and sometimes it takes longer than you like.”
As their boys, Bruce, 10, and Dean, 8, grow up, Rob and Mo hope Hoffman Millworks will provide them with a summer job. “One of the hardest parts
is moving the wood around, so having the boys help as we get older is the dream,” Rob says.
When not hard at work with the mill, the Hoffmans can be found at Spring Lake’s South End beach, where Rob was a lifeguard growing up. The boys love the saltwater pool. They also love to camp. “We are hippies,” Mo jokes. “We do love trees.”
MANAGING GROWTH
In just eight years, Hoffman Millworks has made deep connections with networks of tree companies, other sawmills, and woodworkers in the area. The pandemic supercharged their business to the point where it was hard to keep up with demand. “It’s like running a well-oiled machine at this point,” Mo says.
The Hoffmans are happy with the growth of their business but wish to keep it the size it is now. “We are pretty content with where it’s at,” Mo says. “We just want to save these trees that are being taken down and reuse them and keep them in the community. We always want to be a family business.”
To learn more about Hoffman Millworks, find them on Instagram @ hoffmanmillworks.
Dallas Hlatky is a local writer and artist working under the brand Merle Works. For more information, visit www.merle.works.
The Soundtrack of Fall
From touchdown cheers to arm chops, the Manasquan High School Warrior Marching Band keeps crowds energized.
BY DANIELLE KUTCHER
From the first note to the final beat, the Manasquan High School Warrior
Marching Band keeps the energy alive during every performance.
OON FRIDAY NIGHTS and Saturday afternoons in Manasquan, the energy on the field isn’t fueled by football alone. From the sidelines, the Manasquan High School Warrior Marching Band is the true “hype squad,” lifting the crowd with songs that bring back memories for alumni and keep today’s students cheering. Whether it’s a touchdown celebration or the pulse of a rivalry game, the music ties generations of fans together.
HONORING TRADITIONS
Some songs are staples of the band, led by band director Eva Szakal. Every game kicks off with “Let’s Get It Started,” while the Notre Dame fight song sounds at the end of the first quarter— and now again at the end of the third quarter, thanks to a revived tradition. Touchdowns send
the crowd jumping to their feet, accompanied by a rousing excerpt from “I Can’t Turn You Loose.”
Fans get fired up even further by swinging their arm forward and back in perfect time with the beat. And there’s always a special victory song reserved for wins— kept under wraps to keep the good luck flowing.
During the game, the band doesn’t perform alone—their music and the high school cheerleaders’ routines go hand in hand, creating a true team effort that makes game day come alive. From “Hey! Baby” to “Louie Louie” and “Gimme Some Lovin’,” the playlist energizes both the crowd and the cheer squad.
The theme of the band’s pregame and halftime show this year is The Greatest Showman. Under the direction of Drum
Bottom: Behind every great band and performance is
Top: These Spring Lake and Sea Girt band kids know how to hype the crowd and bring the energy.
a leader keeping the rhythm.
Majors Owen Murphy and Nicholas Kutcher, the band performs marching routines to songs from the movie soundtrack, including “This Is Me,” “Never Enough,” and “From Now On.” They end their dynamic show playing the school song with a little help from the cheerleaders, who form a square and spell out “Manasquan” with their pompoms.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Performing in front of so many spectators can be nerve-racking, but it also teaches students how to manage their nerves. “Being drum major has helped me stay calm because I get to turn around and look at the band for a moment,” Owen says. “My blood always gets pumping for my solo, though.”
Every fall, the Manasquan versus
Wall game draws some of the biggest crowds of the season. For the band, the preparations don’t change—they bring the same spirit and dedication as any other game. Still, the rivalry makes it electric. Wins feel sweeter, losses sting sharper, and the intensity in the stands is unforgettable. It is during this yearly game that alumni are welcome to pick up their instruments again, when the stands are filled with familiar faces and familiar songs.
A SUM GREATER THAN ITS PARTS
The Manasquan program stands out in a few ways. Unlike many schools, the band does not rehearse together during the school day. Instead, sections practice separately, coming together outside school hours
Above: Percussionist Ethan Toon lends his skills to the rhythm section. Below: The Warrior Marching Band brings the sound of Squan pride to life.
for rehearsals, shows, parades, and special events. This flexibility also allows talented eighth graders from sending districts to join, helping to build the program’s future. In total, dozens of students participate, developing not just musical skills but teamwork, discipline, and a strong sense of belonging.
Amy Murphy, Owen’s mother, emphasizes the benefits of the program more broadly. “Through countless hours of practice, students learn the importance of dedication and consistency,” she says. “Working closely in a musical ensemble teaches them how to collaborate, listen, and contribute to a shared goal.”
MORE THAN MUSIC
For Eva, now in her 26th year of teaching and third year at Manasquan, the program is deeply personal. “Being a part of this program makes me so proud,” she says. “I remember my own high school band experiences so fondly, and I strive to give my students the same opportunities. The
teamwork, the friendships, the joy of making music together—it stays with you for life.”
Eva has a background in teaching beginning band students, and it is a gift she brings to Manasquan. Here, newcomers can pick up an instrument for the first time, find their rhythm, and discover a circle of peers who make the experience all the more meaningful. “There’s something magical about watching students grow together,” she reflects. “High school band is about music, but it’s also about unity.”
At its core, the Manasquan High School Warrior Marching Band is more than just halftime entertainment. It is the pulse of the community, a memorymaker for alumni, a partner of the high school cheerleadering team, and the soundtrack to every football game. “With every note, every song, and every tradition, the band makes sure Squan spirit is always alive and well,” Nicholas says.
Danielle Kutcher is a retired teacher, mom, and proud band parent.
Drum Majors Nicholas Kutcher and Owen Murphy lead the way for the Warrior Marching Band.
A Fair Shot
For All
A Sea Girt couple continues to create opportunities for those less fortunate with its nonprofit organization, RallyCap Sports.
BY JUDITH JONES AMBROSINI
TTHE THINGS ONE can learn chatting with someone on their front porch are sometimes both inspirational and heartwarming. Such was the case when I sat with Margo and Paul Hooker on their porch in Sea Girt recently.
The Hookers met as students at Bowling Green State University. Paul, a local Ohio boy, was working in the campus pool room when he met Margo, a transfer student from Georgian Court College. Margo went in to get change to do laundry. Paul remembers looking up and “bells rang, whistles blew, and fireworks went off” as their eyes met.
Paul thought, “She is way above my pay grade.” But as the two got to know each other, they found common
ground. For one thing, both had lost parents at a young age, which made each of them sympathetic toward others, kind, and strong in their own ways. Their relationship has grown into a marriage of over 51 years, with two sons and a daughter, each married to loving spouses, and 10 healthy grandchildren. They also have built a nonprofit for children with special needs.
SPARKED TO CREATE CHANGE
In 1990, while living in Middletown, Paul was president of Lincroft Little League and coach of the youth softball team in which their children played. At one of the games, Margo and he were walking to the field when they noticed 12-year-old Nicole
Bongiolatti watching her two older brothers play baseball. Nicole had spina bifida, which caused her to be in a wheelchair.
When Paul asked Nicole how she was doing, she turned to him and said, “Mr. Hooker, this stinks! How come my brothers can play Little League and I can’t?” Inspired by Nicole’s remark, he and Margo founded Challenged Youth Sports, a youth softball program that Nicole and some of her friends could participate in. “This stinks”—the two words Nicole said with such feeling— sparked what would become a lifelong mission to help those with special needs.
That same year, the American Disabilities Act was passed by Congress as a spotlight on accessibility standards that ensure people with disabilities can stay
The Hookers’ vision for Baltimore Park ensures children of all abilities can enjoy the playground together.
active, enjoy sports, and fully participate in recreation spaces across the country. The act also integrated special needs students into mainstream public schools.
GROWING STRONG
Over the years, Challenged Youth Sports grew from a small, single-sport season to a yearround organization offering nearly a dozen sports and dances, impacting hundreds of families in the region. In 2014, the organization changed its
RallyCap Sports closed out summer on the beach in Sea Girt with Manasquan High School volunteers.
name to RallyCap Sports.
A rally cap is a baseball cap worn inside out and backward by players and/or fans to will a team to a comeback victory late in a game. Paul interpreted this definition metaphorically. “The need for the rally cap symbolizes the challenges RallyCap players and their families face,” he says. “By figuratively putting on that hat, wins will hopefully be achieved in the game of life for these participants.”
RallyCap Sports expanded to universities where students could get involved working with children and young adults with special needs. It launched its first chapter at the school where Margo and Paul (now a trustee at Bowling Green State University) first met. There, they established the model for future chapters. There are presently five RallyCap Sports chapters across the country.
MAKING DREAMS COME TRUE
Margo and Paul also have worked tirelessly over the years with the Monmouth County Park System raising funds to build two accessible playgrounds in the area: Challenger Place at Dorbrook Park in Colts Neck (June 2004) and Tony’s Place in Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park in Long Branch (November 2009).
In 2017, RallyCap Sports also collected donations in memory of dedicated volunteer Elaine Plasteras, to give five adaptive bikes to students with special needs at the LADACIN Network Schroth School in Ocean Township. The families who received these bikes reacted by saying what a positive impact the gift had on their children’s lives. This led RallyCap Sports to raise the funds needed to provide four additional adaptive bikes in 2018 and another five for students in 2019.
At home in Sea Girt, Margo and Paul enjoy taking their grandchildren to the playground in Baltimore Park. While there one day, they noticed there was no shade, making it difficult for parents to stay very long due to the direct sun and heat. They also noticed there was no adaptive playground equipment for children with special needs.
Margo and Paul approached Jim Gant, then Sea Girt Boro administrator, and offered to fund the addition of shade that resemble waves and two pieces of adaptive playground equipment. Their generous donation covered the total cost of purchase and installation, and allowed them to erect a new sign that includes the RallyCap Sports logo. The couple worked with Mike D’Altrui, president of Sea Girt Recreation, to design the project.
Beyond special needs, Margo and
Paul are avid supporters of several local charities involved with food insecurity and homelessness. They are parishioners of St. Mark Catholic Church in Sea Girt, and both taught religious education for over 15 years at their previous Holmdel parish. Over the 35 years they have run their nonprofit, Margo also has worked with Paul in their import business, SFERRA Fine Linens.
IT TAKES A VILLAGE
As RallyCap Sports celebrates its 35th year, Margo and Paul’s hope is that the lives of hundreds of children and young adults with special needs
will continue to flourish. With the assistance of over 3,200 volunteers who have served more than 65,000 community service hours, it is likely it will. As RallyCap Sports continues its mission, it also inspires others to get involved. For example, local teen Gavin D’Altrui, a Manasquan High School student and Sea Girt resident, witnessed the impact of the organization firsthand at a Sea Girt 5K race and decided to start a RallyCap Sports at Manasquan High School.
In December 2024, Margo and Paul enlisted the assistance of their daughter-in-law Gina Hooker. Gina is now executive director of RallyCap Sports. The hope is that Gina, with the help of their seven local grandchildren and dedicated community volunteers, will continue the program for years to come, serving children and young adults with special needs. “Helping others is our mission,” Margo says.
Sea Girt is fortunate to be home to such a heartwarming and inspirational couple. To learn more or to donate to the nonprofit 501(c)(3) program, visit www.rallycapsports.org or call 732-391-2282.
Judith Jones Ambrosini is a Sea Girt resident, author of the “Sisterhood of Diabetes,” and a member of the Sea Girt Holly Club. To read more about Judith, turn to page 6.
(732) 539-7875 mcm2design@gmail.com Mary Catherine McCarthy LLC brings refined coastal design to life, paired with All-Star Cabinetry’s expert craftsmanship.
Together, they create exceptional kitchens that elevate homes throughout Spring Lake, Sea Girt and beyond.
The Gift of Goodwill
Get into the Christmas spirit early by helping to provide presents to local families in need.
BY KERRY SERZAN
“Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its beauty and joy.”
—Francis Pharcellus Church in an 1897 New York Sun editorial, in response to a letter sent in by 8-year-old reader Virginia O’Hanlon
THE SEASON OF GIVING is already underway at the Spring Lake Community House, where the annual Christmas Fund will once more lend a hand to families in need of some extra help at this time of year. This will be the fund’s 38th year providing Christmas presents, clothing, grocery gift cards, and other basic needs to local children and families. This year, the fund is getting ready to deliver goods to approximately 200 families in Spring Lake Heights, Wall, Belmar, Avon, Bradley Beach, and the surrounding areas.
Partnering with school counselors, nurses, and support staff—as well as local organizations such as Catholic Charities and Mercy Center NJ in Asbury Park—the fund identifies families who would benefit from its assistance. Families are then interviewed to determine eligibility and need along with the names, ages, sizes, and interests of their children. The organization is able to bring the joy and beauty of Christmas to these children thanks to many supporters, donors and volunteers who shop for, wrap, and deliver gifts each year.
SHOW YOUR SUPPORT
There are several ways to get involved and help the fund reach its goals this Christmas:
• Donate. Contributions in any amount are welcome and can be mailed or brought directly to the Spring Lake Community House.
(Checks may be made payable to SLCH Christmas Fund.)
• Sponsor. Support a family by sponsoring them for $350.
• Shop. Volunteer shoppers are given funds as well as a list of what to buy for each individual. The fund typically allocates around $100 for each child. Volunteers also wrap and label the gifts and bring them to the community house to await delivery.
• Deliver. Many volunteers opt to deliver the gifts to the families that will receive them. This merry tradition usually takes place on the last day of the Spring Lake Theatre’s beloved yearly run of “Scrooge.”
(Many of the fund’s dauntless volunteers are presently involved with the production or have been in the past.)
To learn more or to become a volunteer, visit the Spring Lake Community House at 300 Madison Ave., or call 732-449-4530 and leave a message for chairperson Mary Jane Burke.
Sitting Pretty
Keep outdoor cushions looking great for years with a little maintenance.
OUTDOOR
CUSHIONS bring color and comfort to any patio, but they can quickly show signs of wear from sun, rain, and dirt. Since replacing them can be difficult due to specific sizing, a little proactive care goes a long way to extend their life and keep them looking fresh.
START WITH QUALITY FABRIC
The foundation of long-lasting cushions is choosing the right fabric. Look for cushions made from high-quality, solution-dyed acrylic or other fade-resistant materials. Theresa McCartin of Bal Arisi, a Bucks County-based company specializing in outdoor cushion cleaning and storage, explains that leading furniture brands like Tuuci and Kettal use these textiles because they’re designed to withstand harsh ultraviolet rays and moisture. This makes them a smart long-term investment that won’t fade or break down quickly.
REGULAR MAINTENANCE IS KEY
A simple routine of regular cleaning can make all the difference. Start by brushing off loose dust and debris with a soft brush. For spills, spot-clean as soon as possible, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions first. While soap and water are often a safe bet, a deeper clean for stubborn stains or mildew might require professional help.
PROTECT FROM THE ELEMENTS
The best way to preserve your cushions is to protect them from the elements. When heavy rain is in the forecast or when you won’t be using them for a while, store them under a covered area. If that’s not an option, invest in quality, weatherproof covers that fit your furniture. This simple step prevents mold, mildew, and fading.
DON’T SKIP WINTER STORAGE
Most people dislike this end-of-season chore, but properly cleaning and storing your cushions in the offseason is crucial to preserving them. Before packing them away, make sure they are completely clean and dry. McCartin warns that any trapped moisture will lead to mold and mildew, which is very difficult to remove.
“The best place to store cushions is in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated
space like a garage or basement,” she advises. “We bag and seal our customers’ cushions as soon as they are clean and dry, then store them in our temperature-controlled facility on elevated shelves.”
If indoor storage isn’t possible, a well-ventilated waterproof deck box is an alternative, though McCartin notes they are not rodent-proof. By choosing the right fabrics, following a simple cleaning routine, and implementing smart storage solutions, your outdoor cushions will stay a beautiful and comfortable part of your outdoor space for many seasons to come.
Bal Arisi serves clients with expert area rug and outdoor patio cushion cleaning and free winter storage services. For more information, call 267-918-2085 or visit www.bal-arisi.com/patio.
Photo by Amy Nolan
HONORED IN ART
A NEW MURAL honoring Jillian Ludwig now brightens a wall outside The Committed Pig at 165 Main St. in Manasquan. Designed by Sea Girt artist—and Jillian’s aunt—Caitlin Accurso, it was painted with love by Caitlin and Jillian’s mom, Jessica Ludwig. The artwork is also featured on T-shirts, with proceeds supporting the Rae of Light Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to continuing Jillian’s legacy of helping others. All proceeds from clothing sales on the site are donated to the foundation, ensuring that Jillian’s spirit of giving back lives on.
SCAN THIS QR CODE TO LEARN MORE OR PURCHASE A SHIRT.
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Megan Schell Schnurr
Realtor Associate
Perched on the Oceanfront beside a tranquil bird sanctuary, this custom-built 6 BD, 6.5 BA residence blends elegance, comfort, and coastal living. With approximately 200 feet of beach frontage, the open layout captures panoramic water views from most rooms and three expansive balconies. Inside, refined craftsmanship shines with custom millwork, a mahogany bar, four gas fireplaces, and the convenience of an elevator. Six ensuite bedrooms offer private retreats for family and guests. Enjoy the private backyard’s outdoor kitchen, dining and lounge areas, and a refreshing outdoor shower—all with direct access to the sand and surf! $15,950,000
