Spring Lake September 2025

Spring Lake SEPTEMBER 2025

ALSO SERVING SEA GIRT FOOD FOR THOUGHT

SPRING LAKE KITCHEN TOUR

BUSHELS OF FUN CANNING TOMATOES WITH FAMILY

Devoted to Community KERRY McBRIDE

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Contents SEPTEMBER 2025

14 F EATU RES

14

10

The Guy Behind the Scenes

Spring Lake Heights’ Kerry McBride has found countless ways to stay involved and give back to the community he loves.

18

Food for Thought

Annual Spring Lake Kitchen Tour returns this October, showcasing local design and cuisine.

I N EVE RY I S SUE

6

8

24

4

PUBLISHER’S NOTE Settling Into September

6

AROUND TOWN Bite-Sized Updates

8

LIFE OUTDOORS Goats on Guard

10

LOCAL TASTES Canning Tomatoes

24

HEALTH & WELLNESS Smooth Transitions

26

PARTNER CONTENT Fitness Lifestyles

28

PARTNER CONTENT Tassini Law

30

BOOK NOOK Back to School

32

PHOTO OP Sunny Days on Third

COVER

Kerry McBride continues to serve the community.

Photograph by Michelle Wolfe.

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Open 77 days days a week for Open for dinner dinner Wednesday - Saturday Saturday for Wednesday forlunch lunch Sundays for for Brunch Sundays Brunch

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PUB LISH E R’S NOTE

Spring Lake MAGAZINE

AS MUCH AS I love the summer, by the end of August, I crave routine and the cooler weather that September brings. Back to school is always an exciting time. New shoes, fresh notebooks and familiar faces abound. There’s easy conversation at school pickup, Sunday grocery runs and cheering on the sidelines at fall sports. It’s a time to slow down and reconnect with our community and enjoy the beaches now that the crowds have gone.

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PHOTOGRAPH BY MICHELLE WOLFE

A

SETTLING INTO SEPTEMBER

Every year, I love taking a bike ride on Labor Day. It always amazes me how it truly feels cooler and emptier immediately. The calendar says the season is over, so the season is over. Now it’s our time to enjoy the bounty of the Jersey Shore.

On this month’s cover we feature lifelong local Kerry McBride.

Growing up, Kerry was a sort of legend in my family. My two brothers worked for him and his brothers, and I don’t know if anyone made them laugh harder. Kerry is a great example of one person pitching in through life’s peaks and valleys, making a difference in the community along the way.

Check out our Local Tastes section to read about another local family’s annual tradition of “Canning Day,” when they come together to cook up fresh tomato sauce for the year. What a lovely way to connect and learn an age-old Italian practice.

There are lots of local community events happening all through September, including the Spring Lake Kitchen Tour, Sea Girt’s Beach Bash and Spring Lake Theatre’s fabulous annual Starlight Gala. It’s a great month to come out and support the community, reconnect with neighbors and enjoy the perfect September weather.

Warm regards,

Brynn Coleman Publisher

Publisher and Editor Brynn Coleman Editorial Coordinator and Lead Writer Danielle Kutcher Writers Judith Jones-Ambrosini Sally Bittner Amanda Skunakis Photographers Michelle Wolfe Michael Scotto Vincent Dicks Christina Lilly 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 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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AROUND TOWN

Local Time As summer crowds fade, locals can look forward to a month full of festive community events.

Beach Day With Your Besties On September 6, the Sea Girt Recreation Department hosts the Sea Girt Family Beach Bash on Beacon Boulevard Beach. The festivities, which run from 6 to 8 p.m., are a great way to socialize with local families, friends and neighbors. It’s your chance to grab a beach chair and soak up the last of summer together.

Dance the Night Away

Honor Our Patriots Kick off the month at Patriot’s Night on September 5 in the Sea Girt Library parking lot from 4 to 7 p.m.

This night honors all the first responders involved in protecting and saving those in need. Join neighbors and friends for some family fun and show your appreciation to the local heroes who keep our community safe.

Italian Festival Returns On September 20, the Spring Lake Italian Festival returns to Third and Morris avenues.

This year’s event includes fun for the whole family, featuring live music, Italian specialties, face painting and more. There will also be a special appearance by NBC New York’s Produce Pete, who will be available for a meet and greet and book signing. For more information, visit www.springlakechamber.org.

Meet the Authors Thunder Road Books in Spring Lake will host a variety of exciting author visits this month.

On September 5 at 6 p.m., join American journalist, critic and biographer Peter Ames Carlin in celebration of “Tonight in Jungleland: The Making of ‘Born to Run.’” Then, on September 11 at 6 p.m., Jersey Shore native Brian McAuley visits the area to discuss the release of his horror book “Breathe In, Bleed Out.” On September 16 at 7 p.m., local Jamie Harrow will have a release event for her book “Fun at Parties.” Don’t miss these and other special opportunities to meet authors, hear their stories and support Thunder Road Books. For more information and to register, visit www.thunderroadbooks.com.

PHOTOGRAPHS, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: MICHAEL SCOTTO; CHRISTINA LILLY; MICHELLE WOLFE

SEPTEMBER IS a time when the community comes back together after a busy, crowded summer at the Shore. As the pace slows and routines return, locals have a perfect opportunity to reconnect, recharge and take part in events that celebrate community spirit. Whether it’s a festival, gala or night honoring local veterans, these moments bring people together and spark joy for all ages.

September 12 is Spring Lake Theatre’s annual Starlight Gala—a time to dress up for a good cause. The donation for tickets is $150 per person, with 100 percent of the proceeds going to the Spring Lake Community House’s mission to support art in the local community.

Come enjoy culinary offerings from local restaurants and dance under the stars at this not-to-miss event. For more information, visit www.springlaketheatre.com.

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LI FE OUTDOORS

Goats on Guard Rhinebeck Goats help to stop the spread of invasive plants in Sea Girt.

BY AMANDA SKUNAKIS

IN SEA GIRT, there is a fascinating environmental project making waves and clearing land near Wreck Pond.

The borough recently launched a program that uses goats to help manage invasive plant growth.

An invasive species is a non-native species that has been introduced to an area where it does not naturally grow. It causes harm to the environment, economy and sometimes even human health.

These species can outpopulate native species for resources, alter habitats that disrupt ecosystems and cause significant damage. Some of

the invasive plants most difficult to control and eliminate in this area are Japanese knotweed, Japanese honeysuckle, mugwort, Smilex, English ivy and tree of heaven.

PROMOTING RESTORATION The idea of turning to goats for help with ecological restoration started when Sea Girt council member Diane Anthony was made chair of the Buildings and Grounds Committee in 2017. Soon after joining the council, she became worried about the rapid spread of invasive plants in local parks. “I was shocked

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by how much damage these species had caused,” she says. “They were choking out native vegetation and damaging ecosystems.”

With this concern in mind, Anthony began researching costeffective, eco-friendly ways to address the issue. During her search, she discovered targeted goat grazing—a natural solution already being used successfully in places such as New York City’s Central Park and Sandy Hook.

Targeted goat grazing has been utilized as an alternative to heavy mechanical equipment. Further exploration led the borough to Green Goats, a farm in Rhinebeck, New York, known for its environmentally responsible grazing practices and use of nonelectric fencing. It wasn’t long before a partnership was formed.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY NICHOLAS KUTCHER

CAREFUL CONSIDERATION In July, the council gave its approval for the program, designating a oneacre parcel of land along the Terrace near Wreck Pond for the goats to graze over eight weeks. Before the goats’ arrival, borough engineers conducted a thorough site inspection, and community considerations were carefully taken into account.

Interest in the initiative quickly grew, thanks in large part to the Sea Girt Conservancy, a nonprofit dedicated to the preservation of parks and open spaces. The conservancy played a key role in both funding the project and contributing scientific expertise to help guide its success.

After the goats have completed their task, the area will be evaluated for plans to enhance terrain for environmental, habitat and stormwater management benefits.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Anthony is grateful for the success of the project, but even more so for the overwhelming support from the Sea Girt community that made it all possible. “We are very, very fortunate on so many levels, and we have an amazing administrator,” she says.

“Our fire and police departments are

wonderful. Even our residents have come out and assisted with so many different things.”

The community clearly has embraced this environmental effort.

Local adults and children have assisted in watering the goats, and a local graphic designer even created a logo to help promote the program.

To respect Sea Girt residents who live along the Terrace, the public is encouraged to walk between the fourth and fifth blocks to watch the goats.

The animals should not be touched or fed, as they consume the vegetation, get exercise and assist the borough in completing the task of invasive species management. There is also a chance that they can carry oils from the poison ivy plant.

“This isn’t just about goats, it’s about stewardship,” Anthony says. “We are a small town, but we’re showing what’s possible when research, creativity and community come together.”

Between active community involvement, cute four-legged friends and passion for a cause, it’s no wonder the Borough of Sea Girt continues to be the GOAT (Greatest of all Towns).

For more information about this project and how you can get involved, visit www.seagirtboro.org and follow @seagirtboro on Instagram.

Amanda Skunakis is a second-grade teacher who loves Disney, Broadway and spending time with her friends and family.

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LOCAL TASTES

Bushels of Fun A Spring Lake family joins in the festive Italian celebration of canning tomatoes.

BY ANNE AND JIM RUSSOMANO

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE RUSSOMANO FAMILY

WHILE ATTENDING the University of Delaware, our daughter Amie met a kind Italian boy named Alessio Azzari.

One day, he asked if her family canned their own tomatoes. Misunderstanding him at first, Amie replied, “Of course— we always use canned tomatoes instead of jarred sauce.” Alessio clarified what he meant—cooking tomatoes at home and canning them for future use—but Amie still had no idea what he was talking about.

My husband, Jim, knew what Alessio meant because he grew up in an Italian family. It Italian families, summer kitchens located in cool basements were often used for cooking and canning. Jim immediately fell in love with this young man and had to know more about his family’s canning tradition.

Alessio’s family is from Mullica Hill, where some of his relatives run local farms. Every August—usually the first weekend—they would gather bushels of plum tomatoes and begin the annual canning tradition. The process takes an entire day. Cleaning, cutting, cooking, mulling, cooking, jarring and waiting for the pop of a lid. As Amie and Alessio’s relationship grew more serious, we were invited by his parents, Arthur and Beth Azzari—the proud founders of Azzari Tomato Day—to join in the tradition.

SHARING THE LOVE When Amie and Alessio became engaged and began planning their wedding, my husband thought that a quart jar of homemade sauce would be a great party favor for wedding guests. So the August prior to their July wedding, both sides of the family gathered for the most epic Tomato Day yet. For this momentous occasion, we needed a commercial food mill, which was a game changer. In addition, we brought in all types of cooking apparatuses—tailgate cook tops, grills, commercial pots—to cook the tomatoes. We even made T-shirts with Azzari Tomato Day proudly printed on the front. The color red was chosen to protect the team from splatter.

We started the process around 7 a.m. and worked diligently through 7 p.m., with a couple breaks for Italian sandwiches and eggplant parmigiana—we needed to keep our energy going. The teamwork that day was incredible.

By the end, we had 150 jars ready to share with wedding guests.

Azzari Tomato Day has become a tradition both our families treasure, and we’re already looking forward to many more in the years ahead.

CAN YOUR OWN TOMATOES Follow these easy steps to stock up on your very own homemade canned tomatoes: 1. Gather plum tomatoes and place in large bucket to clean.

2. C ut tomatoes into quarters.

3. P lace tomatoes in large pot over medium heat and season with salt.

4. C ook down tomatoes, stirring occasionally: 30-45 minutes for light, fresh, semi-watery sauce; 1-2 hours for medium-thick sauce; 3+ hours for thick, rich sauce.

5. Once reduced, run tomatoes through a food mill.

6. R eturn to stove and cook batch down even further.

7. Place sterile jars (without lid) in 200° oven for about 30 minutes.

8. Carefully remove jars, add basil leaves and sauce, and tighten lid (be sure to use new seals; a lid ring is fine to reuse).

9. W ait for popping sounds, then store away until winter.

Anne and Jim Russomano are Spring Lake residents who love gardening, cooking, family time and, of course, tomato sauce.

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The Guy Behind the Scenes Spring Lake Heights’ Kerry McBride has found countless ways to stay involved and give back to the community he loves.

F From sledding through snowy Spring Lake Heights as a child (bottom) to volunteering behind the scenes on high school musical sets (top), Kerry McBride has always played a meaningful role in his hometown.

FOR LIFELONG RESIDENT and devoted volunteer Kerry McBride, Spring Lake’s beaches, boardwalks and ballfields are places where memories were made and cherished. Having grown up in Spring Lake Heights and now raising six children here, Kerry has become one of those familiar, steady figures in town—the kind of neighbor who shows up, lends a hand and makes things happen behind the scenes.

Professionally, McBride and his brothers’ family business, McBride Awning Company, have been helping Jersey Shore towns maintain their charm with custom awning installations since 1990. Whether he’s building Broadway-worthy sets for a high school musical, fundraising for the band or adorning local porches with their iconic colorful awnings, his love for this community runs deep—and it shows.

Elwood Malick and Mr. Oberto, to name a few. I was fortunate enough to attend St. Catharine’s and Spring Lake Heights Elementary School, and I graduated from Manasquan High School, which all of my children attended and graduated from as well.

What was it like growing up in Spring Lake?

I’ve never lost sight of how fortunate I am to have grown up in Spring Lake Heights. As a kid, we had the beaches in the summer, and great rec programs like Little League and soccer, with amazing coaches like

What is it like raising a big family in the same town where you grew up?

It’s so nice seeing them do stuff I did as a kid, riding bikes to the beach, tennis at Allaire Road Park, attending the same church I grew up in. I enjoy sharing those memories with them.

Now that they’re older, they’re going

What are some of your favorite memories from your childhood?

Running on the boardwalk, which I still enjoy doing (although now it’s more of a walk). My street was filled with kids my age, including my cousins who lived next door.

There were always activities out in the street. I have fond memories of having a catch with a football or baseball with my cousin Tommy, who was a star athlete and one of my earliest heroes. I also loved to go to the Spring Lake Heights Fireman’s Fair as a kid.

SNAPSHOTS COURTESY OF KERRY MCBRIDE; PORTRAITS BY MICHELLE WOLFE

BY DANIELLE KUTCHER

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to the same clubs I used to go to—The Osprey, Leggetts and Parker House. Although, they’re missing out on seeing The Courteous Drivers play downstairs at The Ale House.

Are your children involved in the same community or school programs you support?

Yes, my daughters Orla and Emma and my son Ryan played in the Manasquan High School band; all three were assistant drum majors. When my oldest daughter joined the band, a small group of parents formed the Manasquan Warrior Band Parents Association in 2015, and I’ve been a part of it ever since.

My daughters Erin, Emma and Orla were members of the MHS Drama Club. When they joined, I started volunteering to build the sets for the plays and musicals that were under the direction of Mr. Weisert at the time. I’m still doing them to this day under the direction of Ms. Schille.

What first inspired you to start volunteering in the community?

As a young boy, I was inspired by my coaches and knew I wanted to be a part of my community when I was older.

Since my kids weren’t too involved in sports, I found other ways to volunteer.

What motivates you to keep showing up and giving your time?

At first you think you’re doing it because of your kids, but then you work with other parents and see their children’s successes. Even though all my children have graduated from high school, I still get satisfaction from helping other

children and seeing them do great things.

You’ve been a huge supporter of the local high school band— what drew you to that?

Helping with the band started out at Spring Lake Heights Elementary School with music teachers such as Mrs. Morton and Ms. Gambino, and parents like Trish Bauter. It was fun to help out the band. At one time, I think all six of my children were in it.

When they joined high school band, they desperately needed new uniforms. We raised money to get the new uniforms and raincoats that they still have today. Through the efforts of the Band Parent Association, we’ve raised money so the students of the band and choir can go on trips like to Hershey Park, where they perform and have fun.

What was it like to build sets for the high school musicals and win two Basie Awards?

As set designer, I draw plans and research the play about two to three months before we start construction. The musical for the following year is announced at the drama banquet in June, and as soon as I know the show, I start planning and looking for set pieces. At the end of December, we start building pieces, and by February, we start building pieces on the stage. The students stay after school to help us paint and put set pieces together.

During the performance week, members from the Count Basie Theater come to see the shows and judge everything from best actor to

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Family time is the most important time in the McBride family. From left to right: Eden, Orla, Emma, Fr. Martin Padovani (St. Catharine’s Church, retired), Abby, wife Lorraine (Lori), Ryan, Erin and Kerry

director to set design. If you’re lucky enough to get nominated, in late May you attend the Count Basie Awards night, with all the glitz and glamour of the Oscars or the Tonys. In 2023, I was lucky enough to be nominated and win for the set design of “Mamma Mia.” In 2024, I won again for the set design of the musical “Into the Woods.”

What does community mean to you?

When I think of community, I think of friends and neighbors coming together to help each other. When my wife had cancer and was in hospice, many friends and neighbors brought food over for my children, helped with rides and were there to support us with their kindness. And while I’ve been going through treatment for Stage 4

cancer, a group from St. Catharine’s Church, Loaves and Fishes, brings food by once a week.

What do you hope your kids—and other young people in Spring Lake— learn from your example?

I would hope they learn that helping out your community can be very rewarding. It can be anything from a one-day volunteer event like cleaning up the beach to a long-term volunteer job like helping out the Spring Lake First Aid Squad.

What other volunteer work do you do?

I’m involved in my son Ryan’s Boy Scout Troop 31 Spring Lake, where he became an Eagle Scout, alongside leaders such as John Sisti and John Fudge, who helped my son with

his Eagle Scout Project when I was sick. I’ve been a CCD teacher at St. Catharine’s School for many years and just signed on to teach a CCD class at Saints Mark’s in Sea Girt. I’m also a member of the MHS Alumni Foundation, which under the leadership of Rob Schatzman and Jeff Osborn, alongside the Liv Morro Foundation, raised money to renovate the MHS theater lighting and sound systems and stage curtains. I look forward to continuing to help volunteer my time to these organizations, as well as others.

Danielle Kutcher is a retired elementary school teacher who enjoys reading, yoga and going on adventures with her family.

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food for

Thought

G

Annual Spring Lake Kitchen Tour returns this October, showcasing local design and cuisine.

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF SPRING LAKE KITCHEN TOUR

BY DANIELLE KUTCHER

GET READY FOR a memorable tasting journey through some of Spring Lake’s most stunning kitchens, because the annual Spring Lake Kitchen Tour is back this October.

This much-anticipated annual event offers guests an exclusive peek into some of the most beautifully curated and elegantly designed coastal kitchens in town. If you love discovering beautiful kitchen designs, sampling local cuisine or simply having a wonderful day in a beautiful town, this tour is for you.

Throughout your day, you’ll enjoy tastings from talented local restaurateurs, and experience the artistry of decorators and florists who transform each kitchen into something truly memorable. Every stop on this self-guided journey highlights not only beautifully designed culinary spaces, but also the unique character and personality of the Spring Lake homeowner.

A GOOD CAUSE The Spring Lake Kitchen Tour proudly supports a meaningful cause. Every dollar raised benefits H.W. Mountz Elementary School in Spring Lake. The tour is the school’s only schoolwide fundraiser, and all proceeds directly support educational programs for its students. By purchasing a ticket, you are helping to enrich programs, support educators and ensure that students at H.W. Mountz continue to thrive.

H.W. Mountz parents, students and administration provide incredible support for the event, dedicating countless hours to ensure every detail runs seamlessly.

“This truly is a community-driven event,” says Marie Reed, chair of the Spring Lake Kitchen Tour. “It wouldn’t be possible without the generous homeowners who open their beautiful kitchens to us.”

Local homeowner Deirdre King

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has showcased her home as part of the tour in the past. “We were so happy to open our kitchen to the tour,” she says. “It’s a great way to support the school and be part of something that brings the community together. The homes in this town are so beautiful—it’s such a treat to get a peek inside and see how everyone makes their space their own.”

WHAT TO EXPECT A highlight of the Spring Lake Kitchen Tour is the delicious variety of bites offered along the way, generously provided by local eateries. Each stop features something special, creating a truly flavorful experience.

Guests can look forward to a

variety of tastings from Spring Lake Seafood, Amelia’s by the Sea and Brandl. Ray’s Café and The Blonde Shallot will serve up savory treats sure to please every palate. You also may find some delicacies from longtime favorites such as The Scone Pony and Third Avenue Chocolate Shoppe to add a delightful touch of sweetness to your day.

Beyond the gourmet tastings, the Spring Lake Kitchen Tour also treats visitors to stunning floral arrangements that elevate each space. Colleen Harrigan, owner of Flowers by Colleen, designs some of the floral displays. “Each home is unique,” she says, “so I create arrangements that complement the overall aesthetic, bringing the

Above: Cali and Madeleine welcome VIPs to the Spring Lake Kitchen Tour, kicking off the day with a smile.

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Every detail of these tablescapes, from the folded napkins to the hand-picked florals, reflects the beauty of each unique home.

GET YOUR SPRING LAKE KITCHEN TOUR TICKETS: SCAN NOW!

space to life in a natural, effortless way.” Harrigan’s artistry, along with contributions from other local florists such as Narcissus Florals, adds a vibrant and fragrant dimension to the experience.

Guests may also come across stunning outdoor areas artfully designed by Terra Earth + Surf.

The Spring Lake Kitchen Tour would not be complete without the creative flair of the talented

designers who help bring each table to life. Their work reflects the unique character of every space, blending elegance, charm and style in truly inspiring ways. Design teams such as Kate & Company, Sweet Pea and Whimsicality each bring their distinct styles, adding thoughtful touches that elevate the entire experience. Their contributions showcase not only stunning kitchens but the spirit of collaboration that makes this event so special.

PLAN AHEAD Tickets are on sale now and usually sell out fast, so reserve yours soon. This year’s event is scheduled to take place on October 18, from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tickets and information about the tour can be found at www.springlakekitchentour.com.

A limited number of VIP tickets are also available, offering fast-track

VIP check-in and early entry to stay ahead of the crowds, exclusive breakfast tastings to start your day, enhanced swag in your tour bag, no lines and a few unexpected perks along the way.

Grab your friends and make a day of it. The Spring Lake Kitchen Tour is perfect for locals and visitors alike. Whether you are a longtime resident or just discovering the magic of Spring Lake, this tour brings people together in the spirit of community and creativity. It’s a beloved event you won’t want to miss. “We’d love for you to join us and be part of something that brings our community together for a great cause,” Reed says.

Danielle Kutcher is a proud mom of three who finds joy in beach days, yoga, good books and spending time with her family.

SEPTEMBER 2025 |

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(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.

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ADVERTISE WITH US IN 2025!

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To advertise, contact Brynn Coleman at Brynn.Coleman@springlakemagazine.com or 908-472-3384.

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H EALTH & WELLNESS

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Smooth Transitions Returning to the classroom after summer break can leave kids feeling anxious. Use these tips to help start the school year right.

BY SALLY BITTNER

FOR MANY STUDENTS, Back to School is an exciting and joyful time.

Summer has concluded, along with its period of rest and relaxation, and students are prepared to engage with their new teachers and classmates while reestablishing connections with existing friends. However, for other students, the return to school can be jarring, stressful and anxietyprovoking. The “unknown” for these students can be all-consuming and negatively impact their mental health. To make the transition easier for all kids, here are some tips to promote a positive return to school this fall: •C ommunicate and Listen: Validate students’ feelings by actively listening to their concerns. Before offering suggestions, ensure they understand you are supportive.

•C ollaborate on Solutions: Work with students to pinpoint the source of their apprehension about returning to school. Problem-solve together to address their fears and discomforts.

• Encourage Creativity: Use creative approaches such as playing, drawing or coloring to encourage students to discuss their feelings about returning to school. They may be more willing to share in these less direct ways.

• Prioritize Self-Care: Promote self-care activities such as walking, listening to music, yoga or meditation. When students prioritize their well-being, their entire bodies are better equipped for success.

• Provide Structure: Students thrive on routine. Implementing similar structures and routines at home can help alleviate anxieties about returning to school.

• Plan and Engage: Review upcoming calendar dates, activities and fun events that occur outside of school to provide motivation for afterschool hours and weekends. Continue to schedule playdates, beach time or other activities to encourage peer engagement outside of school hours.

• Enlist Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to school counselors, teachers or administrators to discuss students’ needs before the academic year begins.

Sally Bittner has been a school social worker for 23 years. When she is not at school, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Sam, and sons, Wyatt and Max.

SEPTEMBER 2025 |

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PARTNER CONTENT

Keep Summer Alive Think ahead to next year and buy your outdoor furniture now.

BY LIZ CLARK

AS SUMMER WINDS down, most people shift their focus indoors—but fall is actually the best time to shop for outdoor furniture. Here’s why smart shoppers wait until now: END-OF-SEASON DEALS • Retailers like Fitness Lifestyles mark down current inventory to make room for new collections.

• September brings discounts on outdoor sets, umbrellas, grills and lighting.

• Floor models and displays are often deeply discounted—perfect for those who want luxury at a lower cost.

USE NOW, ENJOY LATER • Known as “local summer,” this time of year is ideal for entertaining with fire pits and football on the patio.

• Buying now means your outdoor space is ready to go when spring arrives—no delays, no backorders.

• Fitness Lifestyles offers local delivery, so you can start enjoying your new setup right away.

INVEST IN QUALITY THAT LASTS • Skip the box-store furniture—most of it isn’t built to withstand the Jersey Shore’s salty air and harsh weather.

• Fitness Lifestyles carries durable, stylish brands that are made to last.

• Materials like powder-coated aluminum, performance fabrics and marine-grade hardware mean less maintenance and longevity.

• Consider smart storage solutions such as cushion boxes and weatherproof furniture covers to protect your investment year-round.

SHOP LOCAL, SHOP SMART •F amily-run since 1984, Fitness Lifestyles knows what works in this area because we live here, too.

•O ur team offers personalized recommendations based on your home’s layout, sun exposure and shore conditions.

•Y ou’ll receive expert help with free in-home consultation, flexible delivery and access to in-stock inventory.

Fitness Lifestyles has been Monmouth County’s go-to destination for premium outdoor furniture and fitness equipment since 1984. Visit our showroom at 37 Route 35 in Neptune for durable, stylish, in-stock options with delivery, or call 732-775-1630 and ask to speak to Jack or Liz.

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Reach virtually EVERY home in Spring Lake and Sea Girt with your business message.

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To advertise, contact Brynn Coleman at Brynn.Coleman@springlakemagazine.com or 908-472-3384.

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PARTNER CONTENT

Home Is Where the Beach Is Preserve your family’s special place for future generations.

BY JOHN C. TASSINI

GROWING UP, my grandparents’ house on Tuttle Avenue (and locker 234 in the old North End pavilion) was the hub of my extended family’s summers. A day on the beach, a barbecue in the backyard and a walk to Hoffman’s for ice cream—these childhood pleasures were, I now know, rare gifts given to me. It all seemed heaven-sent, but today, I see that I was the beneficiary of my family’s years of hard work.

I know firsthand that a home in Spring Lake or Sea Girt is so much more than four walls and a roof. It’s where you lace up your sneakers before a morning run on the boards, retreat for a nap after a day in the surf and watch lightning bugs stipple the summer evening. It is the fullest expression of what you’ve worked for—a reward you not only see and touch but experience fully.

The heart of my law practice is the planning and administration of wills, trusts and estates. Often, when I meet clients, their first question is about preserving their home as a legacy for their children and grandchildren—not simply because of the value of the asset or

the memories made there, but because it will continue to draw their family together in the years to come.

The best way to accomplish this varies from family to family, but no matter how we get there, keeping a house in the family is one of my great professional satisfactions.

CREATING A LEGACY No two families are alike, and so there is no one-size-fits-all approach.

When I first meet with a client, I spend much of my time just getting to know the person in front of me. I ask him or her to describe his or her family life and career, as well as his or her plans and hopes for the future.

Then, I propose a plan to make the vision a reality.

With a family home, the right solution will reflect a balance between safeguarding the asset and providing enough flexibility to leverage its value. You might consider, for example, conveying the home to a form of trust or forming

John C. Tassini grew up in Brielle and now lives in Manasquan with his wife, Kate; their three children; and their goldendoodle.

an LLC to take title. However we approach it, I know that, with a Spring Lake or Sea Girt home, the goal is not merely to preserve an asset. It is to ensure that you and your family will enjoy the timeless Jersey Shore experience for generations to come.

John C. Tassini practices trust and estate law with Maxwell, Tassini & Gardner, a full-service firm, at 302 Washington Ave., Spring Lake. Please contact John via phone (732-2305003) or email (jct@mtglawyers. com) for more information.

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BOOK NOOK

Bond Over Books Kick off the new school year with three timeless picture books that offer humor, heart and a way to start conversations.

BY DANIELLE KUTCHER

“THE TEACHER FROM THE BLACK LAGOON”

By Mike Thaler Packed with exaggeration and imagination, this book captures a student’s worst fears about starting school—with a hilarious twist.

Luckily, the “terrifying” teacher turns out to be perfectly normal, calming first-day nerves. Parents and teachers can use this story to talk about anxiety and the reality of classroom life in a fun and lighthearted way.

Check out the other books in Thaler’s series to add to the read-aloud lineup, including “The Librarian from the Black Lagoon” and “The Principal from the Black Lagoon.”

“FIRST DAY JITTERS” THE FIRST DAYS of school are filled with excitement, nerves and endless possibilities. Parents and teachers can use this opportunity to read aloud some timeless stories to young ones. These titles can be used to help kids process first-day jitters, explore separation anxiety or simply share a good laugh. As a bonus, they can open the door to meaningful conversations. From heartwarming tales to humorous twists that calm classroom anxieties, these stories offer something for every child as they begin the new school year.

“THE KISSING HAND”

By Audrey Penn This classic is a go-to for easing separation anxiety during the first days of school. When little Chester Raccoon is nervous about leaving home, his mother shares a family secret—a kissing hand—placed on his palm to remind him of her love, even if they are apart. The story offers comfort and reassurance for students adjusting to new routines, which makes it a great way to start conversations about emotions, family and the power of love.

By Julie Danneberg This read takes the anxieties of the first day of school and turns it around with a surprise ending that reveals it’s not a student who is nervous—it’s the teacher. Kids will love the witty writing and colorful illustrations, while being reassured that even teachers feel nervous sometimes. It is the perfect book for the first day of school to start conversations about new beginnings and the courage it takes to face one’s fears. Don’t forget to add Danneberg’s fitting year-end book “Last Day Jitters” to your collection for the last day of school.

Danielle Kutcher is a retired elementary school teacher who enjoys reading, yoga and going on adventures with her family.

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John C. Tassini, Esq.

Photo by Amy Nolan

Wills, Trusts & Estates: Planning and Administration

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PHOTO OP

SUNNY DAYS ON THIRD THE BRILLIANT COLORS of summer bring life to Third Avenue.

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Submit your high-resolution shot to editorial@ springlakemagazine.com.

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Megan Schell Schnurr Realtor Associate Keller Williams Realty #1 individual producer for 2020, 2021 and 2023 for Monmouth & Ocean County NJ REALTORS® Circle of Excellence Sales Award ® 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021 & 2020 - PLATINUM 2019-2017 - GOLD | 2014 - SILVER 2015 - 2016 - BRONZE

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Inventory is still low, and home prices remain incredibly high. Now is the time to sell!

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